Nan's Jewel

Nan's Jewel~ Chapter 54 <3 Zillah

AN: Nan's Jewel is finished, I just have to upload it all now :D I am also... Nevermind, I won't say that yet ;D

<>< Kaitlin

Chapter 54- Zillah

The day Edward's ship landed in the Port of Vienna was the day Rebeka turned six months old; August 6th. The carriage ride up to Edward's house was quiet, except for the horses' hooves and Rebeka's meaningless chattering. When we arrived servants quickly carried all the bags away, and Edward's mother led me up into the parlor. I sat on a sofa bouncing Rebeka on my knee as I listened to Abigail talk. I explained everything that had happened, and told her that I was pregnant again, only this time with Edward's child. When I was done explaining Abigail handed me over to a maid who led me up to a large room, different than the one I stayed in the first time I was there. I laid Rebeka in the crib, and sat on the window seat, looking out over to beautiful town of Vienna. It was a crisp morning, with the sun shining brightly, and I could feel its heat even inside. The town was busy with people, but it was calming and somewhat organized. I looked trying to find Edward, but knew I wouldn't, there was just too many people there. I turned away from the city and looked around my room. It was nicely furnished with a large bed covered in a light blue and white quilt with alternating pillows. A heavy golden canopy hung around it, but for the time being was tied up and away. There were two wardrobes and dressers, one on each side of the room that looked to be made of rich, dark oak. The door wasn't quite shut on one of the wardrobes so I stood and walked over to it, to find it full of glistening, glimmering gowns; not all of which were mine. After searching through the other wardrobe and the dressers I found that half of it was clothing belonging to Edward. In my dresser there were a few dresses and cloth diapers for Rebeka. I laughed to myself before going back to Rebeka, and standing over her crib. Her copper ringlets splashed out across her pillow and her long dark lashes framed her pale skin. She was a beautiful and healthy baby, and I praised God everyday for her. While thinking about that, I walked back over to the window seat and knelt down beside it, and spent several hours in prayers of thanks, and help. When Rebeka started to fuss, a maid came in and explained that Mistress Abigail had found a wet nurse for Rebeka, which I eagerly accepted. The maid left with Rebeka and I followed her, hoping that lunch would be served soon. I found Edward and his parents in deep conversation in the parlor, but didn't want to disturb them. Apparently I wasn't.

"Hello Zillah."Edward greeted striding to my side.

"Hello Edward."I replied, threading my hand into his. His arm went around my waist, keeping me anchored to him.

"Good afternoon Zillah."His father greeted.

"Good afternoon Lord Dubois."I replied, curtsying.

"Zillah, please, call me Stephen, and my wife Abigail."Stephen said, waving away the formalities.

"Of course."I responded.

"Are you hungry dear?"Abigail asked, "Lunch is ready."

"Yes."I admitted, allowing Edward to lead me into the dining room behind his parents.

I sat beside Edward, across from Abigail, and with Edward's younger sister Catherine across from him. Stephen sat at the head of the table. After grace, Catherine looked up at her older brother.

"Edward?"She asked.

"Yes Cat?"He replied, his fork halfway to his mouth.

"Who is that pretty little girl that came in with Lady Zillah?"She asked, blushing.

"That is Zillah's and my child."Edward said with a laugh, setting his fork down.

"Am I related to her?"Catherine asked anxiously.