Kiss Me Now, Kiss Me Never

Nailed

Anthony

I was fuming. How dare my father believe that I would still marry that wretched beast after what happened. I stilled as the cool night air refreshed my skin. I should have never allowed for my family to brow beat me into marrying into such a family.

The rumors I had heard about Becca and her aunts were deplorable. Yet, my father saw past that and only saw the dowry; nothing more. He was willing to sacrifice his only son for fancier accommodations. It was his bloody fault that there were little monies left. If it were not for our name and my grandfather, we would have been on the streets.

After the death of my dear mother, my father had not been the same man. I shudder to think of what would become of me if I had lost Beverly to the wolves. There had to be something I could to have her, even if it meant destroying my family.

We had to leave, that was the only choice I could see working to our advantage. It would be a hard ride out west, but it would allow us to be together. I was determined never to hurt my Beverly again.

I walked into the parlor and saw one of Bev's maids, the one that helped us be together in secret. I had to find a way to talk to her, to see if she would be able to assist in our leaving this wretched place. She handed me some tea, our eyes briefly met, and she nodded to acknowledge my silent request.

After ensuring that our discussion would not be overheard, I made my way down the hall to await Rosalinda. In a few short moments, she walked into the hallway near Bev's room, looking over her shoulder. No doubt, she was afraid of the consequences of our secret meeting.

"Rosalinda," I whispered. I looked around us to ensure our privacy. "Beverly and I must flee." She shook her head and told me that I could not take her. That it would hurt her father so much. "If she were to stay we would not be allowed to be together."

Rosalinda sighed and nodded. "Tell me what I need to do. I do not trust that woman that would be your wife if you remained. She is evil."

Confused by her description of Becca, I had to wonder of what she knew. The family from which Becca been born to has always maintained a high-class standard; rumors were only spoken within our social circle. However, Rosalinda had likely seen and heard more from some of the others workers that gathered weekly.

"Why do you say this?"Rosalinda looked horrified that she had spoken ill of someone. "Be still, I will not tell anyone of what we have spoken of today. I need to know what makes you believe that Becca is evil."

"She follows you sometimes. I wanted to see what had her going into the forest. I have seen her watch you when you are with Beverly."

I gasped, unable to maintain my composure for long. I was so angry that the vile woman would dare follow me. Curse my need to have Beverly in every way. Had Becca seen me make love to my beloved? Could it be the reason she had insisted on announcing our engagement, weeks earlier than we'd discussed?

I shook my head, disgusted by the turn of events. I had hoped a few days to prepare, however I had an urgent need to take my beloved and run. I bent and whispered my intensions.

"Gather me some food and some of Bev's clothes. We leave tonight."

Rosalinda gasped as her eyes become wide and fearful. "Do you think it wise in her condition?"

"I am quite capable of caring for her, Rosalinda," I said softly. "Please."

"Yes," she said looking behind me. "I will help you both."