The life and death of Nicolae Roman

Chapter 23: Love and Death

Nicolae gave his parents a few days to cool off.  He wanted things to be calm before making his announcement.  He rode Draco every morning down to the Somes River.  Feeling the cool autumn air through his hair while galloping over the fields at top speed gave him a sense of freedom that he lately yearned for.  The daily exercise helped him clear his mind and channel his thoughts.  After one week of avoiding the topic, Nicolae decided it was time to bring things to a head.

He sat down at the breakfast table, watching his parents.  Count Rudolf had mellowed out after their initial fight.  Nicolae's meek behavior helped the situation tremendously.  Even though he was seething inside, he acted like the good, obedient son around his father.

Nicolae glanced at his mother.  Countess Ileana had miraculously recovered within just a couple of days after her son's arrival.  She now sat across the table from Rudolf, happily buttering a breakfast scone.  Neither one of his parents had any idea what was about to happen.  Nicolae cleared his throat to get their attention.

"I have an announcement to make," he said once both their gazes were locked on him.

Neither the Count nor the Countess spoke.  Instead, they looked at their son expectedly.

"I have made a decision."  Nicolae paused for effect.  "I will marry... Stella Czabo."

Both of his parents exhaled audibly.  They had obviously been holding their breath waiting for Nicolae to speak.  He gave them what they wanted.

"Oh, my darling... that is wonderful news," his mother gushed.

"Yes.  Very well, Nicolae," his father agreed.  "I'm glad you've finally made the right decision."

"On one condition," Nicolae raised a finger in the air.  His parents froze.  They both dreaded making compromises with anyone.

"I want to return to London, one last time.  To tell Elizabeth in person that I cannot marry her."  Nicolae spoke gently, yet firmly.  He did not leave any room for argument.

"But... is that really necessary?" Countess Ileana fidgeted.  "Can't you write her a letter?"

"It would not be the gentlemanly thing to do," Nicolae said.  "Don't you agree, Papa?"

His father cleared his throat.  "Yes... I can understand why you'd like to go in person."

"Rudolf... really...," Countess Ileana started, but her husband held a hand up in the air to stop her.

"Now look here, Ileana.  The boy has agreed to marry Stella.  I think it's reasonable to allow him this one last thing.  Don't you?"  He raised his eyebrows meaningfully.

The Countess was clearly defeated.  "Yes... I suppose," she sighed. "But you won't stay long, will you?"  She fixed her eyes on her son.

"No... of course not," he answered nonchalantly.  Inside, he was congratulating himself on his victory.  "Just long enough to tie things up... without leaving a mess behind."

"Very well," the Countess acceded.  "When do you plan to leave?"

"As soon as possible," Nicolae said.  "No sense in delaying the inevitable."

He then proceeded to help himself to some eggs and scones, putting an end to their discussion.

***

Two days later, the carriage was waiting outside the mansion front door.

"Master... are you sure you won't need me?"  Ion pleaded with Nicolae.  The previous day, Nicolae told him he would be making the journey alone.