Undine -

Chapter 24

IT was later that day that the bombshell fell. Sophie was in the cool gloom of the library reading a copy of Hatter's Castle when Michael entered and closed the door behind him. He stood a moment, staring down at her then said gently, 'I wanted to tell you myself. I'm leaving Fern Deane and won't be returning.'

The late afternoon sun dipped low enough to illuminate the room with soft golden rays and she barely heard his next words.

'Serena and I will be married by the end of the month.'

Sophie nodded slowly, because she couldn't think of any other gesture to make. This knowledge should have hurt, but all she felt was numb resignation. His eyes never left hers and she felt she might strangle at the expression in those green depths. In her mind's eye, she saw herself leaping up and yelling at him, 'What the fuck are you thinking? You don't love her!', but somehow, she found her voice, a voice surprisingly calm and emotionless. 'An autumn wedding. I hope this Indian summer holds out for you both.'

My cousin and I have been expected to marry since we were children.'

'A family tradition.'

'It's what everyone expects.'

'Of course. Though you don't strike me as the sort who bends to familial obedience.'

He gave her a withering look, then turned to stare up at Marina's portrait.

'You're getting married, Michael. Not walking to the gallows. Why are you leaving Fern Deane? Because of me?'

'No. I always had plans to leave eventually.'

'When Elizabeth was gone?'

Emerald met amber and for the first time since meeting him, she saw Michael's countenance slip. She gave no quarter knowing he expected none, but her voice was gentle and held no condemnation. 'But now you have me. Now you have someone who can take your place...at least when it comes to keeping your aunt company for the next few years. How relieved you must feel.'

'It's not that simple.'

Sophie held out her hand. 'Let's shake on your future. That should be facile enough for you.'

'Sophie—'

'Don't give me your pity. Or your apologies. I expect nothing from you. I never really did. You and I are as far removed as two people can be. I've always known that. And Serena knows you so much better than I.'

'I'm very fond of you, Sophie.'

'That's what they all say,' she quipped, snapping her book shut. 'Men, huh?'

'Don't...', he said.

'It's alright,' she smiled. 'I'm pleased for you both, truly. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have work to do for your aunt.'

She left the library with her shoulders squared, the epitome of dignity while dying inside. Like a sleepwalker she returned to the sanctuary of her room, lay down on the bed and closed her eyes forcing herself to empty her mind and heart.