An Illicit Romance

First Kiss

First Kiss

Rose’s POV

“Where were you, last night? With Daniel?” Lily asked me.

“I was gardening, like the Duchess told me to. He came over and started talking to me. He always does that.”

“Maybe he’s trying to sleep with you.”

“Lily!”

“Think about it,” she began whispering. “Since when do people like him bother with people like us?”

She had a point. I questioned his intentions. After the get together and a long talk with Daniel and his mother, Melanie had publicly announced their engagement to the people. I saw Daniel’s face. He was unhappy. I wanted to comfort him, but instead I did my duties as a servant.

Lady Harrington walked in with Melanie. The two spent a lot of time together. Mostly speaking about Daniel.

“See? I told you he’ll come round. No you’re engaged to be married.”

Melanie squealed with joy. “Yes! He’s mine! It’s all down to you, Duchess.”

Lady Harrington nodded in agreement.

“He doesn’t even like her.” I whispered to myself.

“Excuse me?”

I realised I spoke out loud. “N…nothing.”

Melanie came towards me, menacingly. “What did you say?”

“Nothing, madam.”

“I heard you! You dare mock me? Who do you think you are? You’re nothing but a lowly servant. A filthy, good-for-nothing, slave!”

Her words were cold and harsh.

“I’m sorry-“

Melanie raised her hand and slapped me so hard, I fell to the ground. Lily was immediately at my side.

Lady Harrington took hold of Melanie’s arm. “Don’t bother getting your hands dirty with this kind, Melanie. Come, let us leave.”

Daniel’s POV

Melanie announced to the guests our engagement. I’d had a long talk with Mother but never agreed to announce anything. By the time I got to the main hall, she’d already spoken. That was it. To call it off now would bring shame and embarrassment to my family. Melanie flicked her blonde hair across her shoulder. I scowled at her.

To the whole of England, the Duke’s son was about to get married to Melanie Willworth. Annabelle came over to me straight away.

“I’m so sorry, Daniel. I had no idea she would do that.”

“It’s not your fault, Anna. I can’t escape my way out of this one.”

I walked up to my room, tired. I had no more excuses left.

I heard Melanie’s voice in the stock room. I was about to go the other way but heard a familiar voice. Rose’s voice.

I ran to the door. Melanie and Mother had just left. I saw Rose lying on the floor, with her hand on her cheek, another servant girl comforting her.

“Rose? What happened here?” I ran up to her.

“She was hit, sir.” The servant spoke.

“By who?” I didn’t have to ask. I knew who it was.

“A woman named Melanie, sir.”

I knew it.

“Leave us, please.”

The servant looked at Rose. Rose nodded and she left, closing door.

“Oh, Rose.” I looked at her cheek. “What happened here?”

“Nothing, sir, it’s my fault. I said something to her I shouldn’t have. I’m sorry.” Her head was still down.

“What did I tell you about this head down business? And call me Daniel, please.”

She looked up at me. Her eyes filled with sadness. Melanie had obviously said some things. I put my arm around her as she cried. She held me closer. I wanted to hold her forever. I hated Melanie now more than ever.

I lifted her face up and kissed her. For a while, she didn’t move. But then she started to kiss me back.

She suddenly pulled away. “I’m sorry. I can’t- We can’t- I’m not supposed to be here.” She got up to leave.

“Rose, wait!” I called after her. She’d gone.