The Rake and the Rose (Wicked Desires Book 3) (Completed)

Chapter 8. 1875 

A HAPPY UNION.
The marriage of Mr. Roger Franklin to Miss Vivian Martin was a very happy union. The young couple was married at Gretna Green a week ago, with Mr. Franklin's brother and sister-in-law present for the service. Once the service was finished, Mr. and Mrs. Franklin took a carriage to France! for their honeymoon.
Rachel and Margaret stared at the newspaper before them, shaking their heads. Of course Roger and Vivian would go to France! for their honeymoon. It was clear they wanted to make a spectacle of their marriage to everyone who cared.
Nicole shook her head with discussed. She knew Vivian was a rebel, but didn't realize her middle daughter would be married in such a way. Her blue eyes met Margaret's. "I am so glad you and Arthur didn't get married in that scandalous manner."
Margaret. "Mama, you know Arthur isn't like Roger at all. He is a Barron for one matter, and he is a respectable gentleman."
Nicolle. "I know my dear. And I believe Viscount Chester is very honorable as well Rachel."
Rachel smiled softly. "Garrett is very honorable mama, not to mention respectful and kind."
Nicolle squeezed both of her daughters hands. "I am so thankful that the two of you found wonderful gentlemen. I am hoping that the Viscount is going to propose marriage before the season is over."
Rachel giggled, blushing. "I am hoping for that as well mama, but Garrett and I want to take our time."
Nicolle smiled. "Taking your time is essential my love. You must get to know the gentleman before you decide you're in love with him."
Margaret. "Is that how you were with father?"
Nicolle. "I was, I adored Edward beyond all measure. He felt the same way, and I knew we would be a good match. Of course, our marriage wasn't perfect, but we were blessed with the two of you."
Margaret and Rachel exchanged a smile. They knew their mother was a hopeless romantic, just like they were. They knew that they would be happy with an Arthur and Garrett.
Nicolle. "When should we expect Roger and Vivian?"
Rachel. "In her last letter, Vivian stated that we wouldn't see them until next week."
Margaret. "Let's hope they don't come back with even more money in their pockets."
Nicole. "I have a feeling Roger has spoiled Vivian beyond repair."
Rachel exhaled. "I wouldn't doubt that mama. Vivian adores to be spoiled by Roger, and he would do anything for her."
Nicolle. "Indeed he would."
The three women continued enjoying their morning breakfast while trying not to think about Roger and Vivian showing up to Martin Park the following week. They knew that Roger and Vivian would be gloating about their new marriage.
***
Three days later, much earlier than expected, Margaret Rachel and Nicolle watched as Roger and Vivian's carriage drove up to the house. They watched as Roger and Vivian stepped out of their carriage, both of them laughing with pure delight. All three of them braced themselves for what they knew would be coming next.
Vivian came twirling into the house, smiling brilliantly. "Hello mama, Margaret, Rachel! Can the three of you believe that I am finally married? It's absolutely the most wonderful feeling in the world!"
Rachel and Margaret stared at Vivian's ring, which was composed of a large round diamond resting on a gold band. They knew they needed to be happy for their sister, but Vivian was just too prideful. However, they both mustered up a smile for her sake. "Congratulations."
Nicole mustered up her own smile and gave her daughter a hug. "I'm so happy for you my dear. I hope that you and Roger have a long and happy life together."
Vivian. "Thank you mama! Oh, and before I forget, Roger and I are hosting a ball at Franklin Park in July! All of you are invited, as well as Arthur and Viscount Chester."
Margaret. "We look forward to it."
Rachel smiled tightly. "Indeed we do."
Vivian squealed. "Wonderful! Oh, mama, Roger and I are going to be staying here for the next few days. We don't want to travel all the way to Franklin Park just yet. You don't mind do you?"
Nicolle took a deep breath. "Not at all my dear. Just please, try and keep the intimacy down."
Vivian smiled brightly before taking Roger by the hand and taking him upstairs to her chamber. If there was one thing she was excited about, it was the prospect of becoming with child before either of her sisters. She knew for a fact that her children would be spoiled.
Watching their sister go upstairs with her new husband, Margaret and Rachel exchanged a look, shaking their heads. Thankfully there wasn't any scandal to the Martin family name. But what Vivian had been doing in the garden was very scandalous. However, they were grateful that their sister was married and happy with the man that she loved.
Margaret gave Rachel a hug. "Don't fret, your time for marriage is going to be coming very soon. I just know it."
Rachel smiled, squeezing her back. "And how do you know this?"
Margaret giggled. "I just have a hunch."
Rachel smiled. "Well then, I agree with you. I believe my happily ever after is going to be coming sooner rather than later."