Born to Run

25: Destiny

A week after the hearing, Mr Mansfield (no longer an advisor, therefore no longer bearer of the title “sir”) sat in the modest parlour of his cottage, listening to Lizzie’s cheery tune on the pianoforte. They were quite comfortable in the small cottage, with a plot of land on the palace estate, given to them by his Majesty.

Julian smiled at Lizzie’s intense concentration as she flew through the passages. Lizzie still went to the palace twice a week for lessons, at Princess Esme’s insistence. Esme had taught her well…

His fist clenched as he inwardly scolded himself for thinking of her again. They hadn’t spoken since the night before the hearing, and he’d scarce seen her since. The coronation, learning of the royal procedures, the bowing; the waving… Esme had been swept into the flurry of being royalty. Did she even think about him at all? Or had some brave and daring knight won her affections? He almost had it in his mind to try and propose again; hoping that this time would be more successful and not end with

an assassination. 

Oh, but what was the use? Love, no matter how strong, was not enough for a Princess. No, Esme needed someone rich! Someone with a spotless reputation!

But would she find a man that loved her more than he?

Julian turned to his father and Lizzie, who were looking at him expectantly. Could they read his thoughts? “What is it?” 

Lizzie rolled her eyes. “Julian, please! You were not even listening to my song!”

He sighed inwardly with relief. “Oh, yes, I was, Lizzie. It is beautiful,” he said, managing a smile. “Did her

Highness teach you that piece?”

Cocking her head slightly, Lizzie looked at him, puzzled. “Do not you recognize this piece, brother?”

Julian shook his head slowly, bewildered. “Was I supposed to?”

His sister let out a groan of exasperation. “It is the piece that Princess Esme composed for my party, brother! I thought you, of all people would notice it!” 

Ah, the piece that sounded like running. It was a wonder that he did not recognize it. Had he not decided he wanted her at his side for the rest of their lives while watching her play that song?  

“Son, are you all right?” Morton asked with concern on his face. Ever since the hearing he had been the perfect father to both Lizzie and Julian. So much they had missed over the years!

“I am quite well, thank you, Father,” he said absentmindedly. “I just have a lot on my mind, ‘tis all.”

“What are you thinking about, Julian?” Lizzie asked, looking from father to son. “What troubles you so?”

“You need to take your chance before it is taken by some other man, Julian. Do not waste any time.” Morton said cryptically, though Julian understood his meaning.

Julian smiled. “You think I should?”

“I know you should, son.” 

Lizzie looked at both men, extremely bewildered. “What are you talking about?”

“Nothing of consequence, Lizzie,” Julian said, still looking at his father.

She stood, stomping a foot. “I do not believe you! You are talking about something; you just do not wish to tell me!”

“Hush, Lizzie. It does not concern you,” their father said gently.

Lizzie looked frustrated. “Nothing concerns me! Nothing ever does! You never let me understand anything!” She stormed out of the room, with a very dramatic exit.