The Greatest Obsession

Chapter Three: Drunken Cousins & A New Home

It took fifteen minutes to gather all of the guests outside, and another five minutes to quiet everyone. Lord Snow stood on a platform near the bsck of the yard where the band sat behind him in silence, merely shadows behind the charming older man.

Everyone gazed at him just as quietly as the band members. Elijah stood near the platform with his arm around Irina's waist. She waved her wide, pink, and green colored fan to allow just an ounce of cool air onto his face and neck.

Elijah scanned the crowd of well-to-do aristocrats who pretended to be interested. Half of the guests were unaware that this was no ordinary house party, and they were unhappy that their good time had been interrupted. In their minds, this announcement wouldn't be anything special.

He wondered what shenanigans Arthur may have been into, because, in a sea of people, Elijah couldn't spot the curly blond. He turned back to Abraham who gave the youth a wistful smile before facing the crowd.

"I would like to thank you all for coming this fine June evening. The air is warm and the people are smiling. I should assure you, this announcement will be brief and enlightening. In light of recent events, my daughter and the apple of my eye, Irina, is engaged," Lord Show announced, which seemed to turn the audience from annoyed to elated.

Chatter spread about the people in the audience. A previous suitor who was unhappy with Lord Snow's speech made a bit of a ruckus, but he was quickly silenced.

The women around the couple were pushing forward to whisper congratulations.

"Now, now," Lord Snow continued, tapping his wine glass lightly, "quiet down. Irina, just yesterday, accepted the proposal of a very gracious and warm young man, Mr. Elijah Marks. There is no one who I feel is better suited to hold my daughter's hand. Elijah is a gentleman. He is honest, kind, romantic, and one of the most well-spoken men I've ever met. Why, he spoke even more eloquently than I!"

Elijah felt Irina's head on his shoulder. He relaxed considerably.

"I know that it is quite soon, but to appease the family and to guarantee a warmer atmosphere, the wedding will take place in late September for those wish to come."

Typical ceremonies were held at least six months after the engagement, but both Irina and Elijah were aware that certain members of the family wouldn't have much time left on this earth, like Lord Rosendale, who wished to see Irina married before his death.

"Elijah, we welcome you into the Snow family with open arms," Abraham said in conclusion of his speech.

"Thank you, Abraham, it is an honor," Elijah said, blushing.

"I now give a toast to new beginnings and cherished loved ones," Abraham swooned as he raised his glass.

The people raised their glasses and cheered on. Abraham looked upon the couple with a sense of contentment as Elijah took his fiancée into his arms and kissed her. He looked at his daughter, so happy, so in love, and so beautiful like her mother was years before. To see her laughing and staring into Elijah's eyes made his own eyes wet with tears once more.

They looked like the full embodiment of love. Elijah and Irina were something of a fairytale.

Abraham rested a hand on his chest as he cautiously stepped down from the platform. He reached for Irina; he kissed her cheek, and she kissed him.

"It was a sweet speech, Father," Irina said to him, placing her hand on his cheek.

The lord only smiled wide. "Yes, Abraham. It was precise and quick enough for the sweating masses," Elijah added, rolling his eyes.