Sandrine nó Orchis
Adept
Orchis House
A little nonsense now and then is relished by the wisest men.
Posts: 776
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Post by Sandrine nó Orchis on Jun 25, 2009 22:09:52 GMT -5
We clambered into the carriage, both the children clinging to me. I thought the initial euphoria was wearing off, because Rochelle started to cry again. Corin watched her, his face full of distress as she buried her face in my side, and I held her.
I wanted to cry too. It felt like I had run a thousand leagues today, and all I wanted was a bath and sleep. But I had to be strong for them. I could feel sorry for myself later. So I gently stroked their hair and murmured wordlessly to them, trying to calm them down.
By the time we reached the de Rouille residence, Rochelle had fallen into a restless sleep. "Corin," I whispered, "please tell Guy to come and carry Rochelle?" He nodded once and climbed quietly out of the carriage.
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Post by Guy de Layne on Jun 25, 2009 22:32:21 GMT -5
When we arrived, I barely had time to get Remy down before Corin climbed out of the carriage and told me that Rochelle had fallen asleep. I nodded, telling him to wait with the girls for another few minutes. Pushing Remy ahead of me, I entered the house, wondering if Denis even had a clue how close he had come to losing his daughter.
Apparently he had, as he was sitting in the parlor with several of the house guard, and the carriage driver, who looked a bit banged up. When he saw Remy, however, he went as pale as milk, and I made sure to note that piece of info for later. Denis rose swiftly from his seat on the divan, looking from Remy to myself.
"So, it appears that there are traitors even in my own house." He looked furious, but was keeping himself calm. "How is my daughter?" His brow was furrowed, and I was actually a bit surprised to note that he really did seem concerned.
"In the carriage, alone with Sandrine and a child from Orchis." Denis raised a brow at that info, but it was not the time to explain everything. "If you have this in hand, I'll see to them." I knew that Denis would want to handle this with his own guard. Which was just as well, considering that there were more than a few aspects of Denis's "business practices" that I wanted no part of.
Before I left, however, I caught Denis's eye and looked carefully at the carriage driver. Denis was quick, I'd give him that, and he nodded imperceptibly before turning his attention to Remy.
Once back at the carriage, I opened the door, and gathered a sleeping Rochelle in my arms. "You two come along as well, we should all get cleaned up." I smiled at Sandrine and Corin. "Afterward, I'll bring you back to Orchis."
I brought them in through the servant's entrance, so that we might avoid the unpleasantness that I was sure was occurring in the sitting room. The servants began immediately making a huge fuss over Rochelle, who woke groggily as I handed her off to her maids, who immediately bustled her upstairs.
"Can we run baths for Sandrine and myself?" Corin appeared clean enough and indeed was already charming the cook, who was feeding him sweets. I smiled when I caught Sandrine's eye; that boy was going to grow up to be trouble for the hearts of young girls everywhere. "And get something clean for her to wear? Something from Rosalyn's closet." She might as well get something nice, and Rosalyn was out of town.
With those words, I had ignited a flurry of activity. I smiled and led Sandrine upstairs, to the bath in Rosalyn's rooms. Denis's house was large, and had every convenience one could imagine, including baths in every suite. Rochelle was likely already having one in her rooms, and I would take mine in my own suite.
"You can take a bath here, and I'll clean up in my room. Meet back in the kitchen?" I smiled and touched her curls tenderly. "You did well, today Sandrine. I might not have found Rochelle without you."
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Sandrine nó Orchis
Adept
Orchis House
A little nonsense now and then is relished by the wisest men.
Posts: 776
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Post by Sandrine nó Orchis on Jun 26, 2009 12:44:39 GMT -5
I couldn't help but smile as I watched Guy carry Rochelle into the house, Corin holding my hand as we followed. Denis, despite himself, had put his daughter into very good hands. They bustled her off quickly into the house.
I felt a strange mixture of pride and shame that Corin had made himself at home so quickly, as I watched him flirt with the cook. I knew someone, probably Keegan, had gotten to my little fiance, and I would have to have words with him later. Though, if I remembered correctly, I was doing similar things at his age. When Guy looked at me in amusement I winked and shrugged, as if to say that I couldn't control Corin no matter what I did.
And then I gasped softly when Guy asked for the baths. For a second I thought he meant that we were going to take one together, until I realized that that would be impossible. I shook my head at my own silliness as Guy gave the rest of the instructions to the staff. Really, I was curious to see the dress they were going to find for me. I highly doubted Denis had a wife with a figure like mine. I was quite difficult to fit for most d'Angeline clothiers.
I looked around silently as I followed Guy, holding my bloody dress together as best I could. The rest of the house was just as lovely as the parts I had already seen. And then we stopped in front of Rosalyn's suite.
"Thank you, Guy," I said softly in response to his compliment, looking up at him as he touched my hair. "I'm glad she's safe." The idea that Rochelle could have been hurt was terrifying to me. I was starting to tremble a bit, and although I tried to will myself to stop I couldn't. All of the pent up emotions I had repressed for Rochelle and Corin's sake were bubbling to the surface. The man had almost violated me, poor Rochelle downstairs would have been able to hear my screams. I would have been ruined and tossed away like a piece of rubbish, and then he would have killed me--and I wasn't sure which would have been worse, Elua help me. I started to push the heels of my hands into my eyes, trying to make the images go away, trying to stop the anxiety that had suddenly overtaken me, a short cry escaping my lips. I could still feel his lips on my skin, still smell him, it was probably still on me, and then his blood, everywhere like paint splatters, so very very red...
I started to feel sick, swaying slightly, and I held on to the door handle to keep myself from falling as I looked up at Guy. I couldn't speak--the words would not come, no matter how much I wanted to say.
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Post by Guy de Layne on Jun 26, 2009 22:13:30 GMT -5
I was about to take my leave of her, trying to keep the image of her in the bath out of my head, when she faltered, holding on to the door handle as if she might fall. Alarmed, I reached forward, enfolding her in my arms.
"Sandrine, are you alright?" I was frightened, more than I had been at any time during this escapade. Even when she was missing, somehow I had known I would find her. When I saw her bound and that man attempting to hurt her, I had known I would save her. Now, though, seeing her so pale and fragile, that was truly terrifying.
"Sssh..." I whispered, stroking her curls and holding her closer than I had any right to. "Everything is alright now, love." Gods it felt good to hold her this way, as if she were mine. I knew that she was feeling the stress of the day, and it had been foolish of me to think that she wouldn't have been affected. Even I would have similar feelings when the adrenaline wore off. I had killed two men, after all, and though they more than deserved it, I was no cold-blooded killer to remain unaffected.
I simply held her, my heart, safely returned, though perhaps a little bruised for her travails.
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Sandrine nó Orchis
Adept
Orchis House
A little nonsense now and then is relished by the wisest men.
Posts: 776
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Post by Sandrine nó Orchis on Jun 27, 2009 1:09:30 GMT -5
It took me a few moments to realize that Guy was talking to me. I had to concentrate to focus on his face, his beautiful face.
And then he was holding me, and I stopped shaking. It felt so right, so good, and I raised my arms to wrap around him, letting out a shuddering breath I didn't know I was holding.
"Gods, Guy..." I whispered, my voice cracking as I concentrated on memorizing how this felt. I wanted to kiss him so badly, but I wouldn't push him so far. It would be selfish of me. "I think I'm just...shocked, that's all. It kind of hit me all at once...what almost happened." I looked up at Guy and shuddered. "I'm glad you came, both for Rochelle and I."
I knew I should excuse myself and go take my bath. We were both a mess and covered in blood, Guy even more than me. But this time Guy was going to have to be the mature one. I didn't want to leave his arms.
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Post by Guy de Layne on Jun 27, 2009 11:12:37 GMT -5
"Don't doubt for one moment that I will always come, Sandrine." I hugged her tightly, trying to be comforting and yet not cross a line that I wouldn't be able to come back from. I wanted to stay this way forever, even covered I was a bloody mess.
After several long heartbeats, I sighed and disengaged myself from her. "You'll feel better after a soak, I promise." It took all of my strength to kiss her forehead and then walk away, but I knew it was something that had to be done.
"We'll meet downstairs, all right?" I gave her a reassuring smile before disappearing down the hall toward my own rooms. Once there, I stripped out of my ruined clothes, leaving them on the floor until I could throw them out. Most of the blood had been on my clothes, but I still felt dirty, so it was with relief that I noticed my bath had already been drawn. I slid into the tub, the hot water relaxing my tense muscles. I imagined Sandrine in her own tub, letting the water soak away her tears and I smiled at the image.
Perhaps I was wrong to keep company with her, considering our feelings for each other, but once again I came to the conclusion that there really was no choice. Being without her was unbearable. Besides, there was no oath against loving someone ... so long as our love remained unconsummated. I sighed, not wanting to think about this more than I already had, and slid under the water to wash my hair.
When I felt clean, I rose from the tub and reached for a robe, realizing immediately that I had forgotten to bring one in, and grabbing a towel instead. The towel was small, however, and would not cover much of me. Slightly annoyed, I stepped out of the tub and began using the tiny towel to at least dry off enough not to drip all over the floor when I went to the armoire to get a robe.
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Sandrine nó Orchis
Adept
Orchis House
A little nonsense now and then is relished by the wisest men.
Posts: 776
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Post by Sandrine nó Orchis on Jun 27, 2009 13:47:36 GMT -5
I hugged him back, sad that the moment had to end. I didn't doubt he would help me however he could. He had risked his life for me, there was nothing he wouldn't do.
Well, there were a few things. Ah, Elua, how cruel you could be!
"I hope so," I said, smiling a bit weakly, watching him move away from me, already missing the warmth of his body, his distinct fragrance, his nearness. "I'll meet you soon."
The servants had left me to my own devices. The steaming bathwater looked wonderful, and I quickly stripped off my ruined dress and started to step into the water.
Except it was too quiet. I stood there, holding myself tightly, shivering and naked, and it was all I could do not to scream out for someone, anyone, to come to me. I couldn't be alone, not yet.
I wanted Guy to come to me. But I wasn't so cruel to ask him to watch me as I bathed, a reminder of all the things we would never share. I would ask Corin to come, I could hide under the bubbles and think it was a game, or pretend to be modest and sneak peaks at me. I didn't mind either way.
I grabbed the robe that the servants had left for me and wrapped it tightly around myself, and then I walked barefoot out of the suite and into the hallway. The house was huge, and I remembered how difficult it had been to find my way around before. All I needed to do was get to the kitchen and then I would bring Corin back with me.
I peeked in every door as I passed, partially because of my natural curiosity and partially because I wasn't sure where I was going. Hopefully I would run into a helpful servant.
And then I looked in one door and my heart jumped. It was just like the last time I had been in this house. I knew immediately that I should turn and look away, but I was far to foolish to do something sensible like that. No, instead I pressed my face to the door.
It was Guy, coming out of the water. The water on his skin only served to define the muscles that danced just below his skin. His body was perfect, honed by the sharp knife of the Cassiline order, and yet it was marked with two scars that I could see from my vantage. One crossed the muscular expanse of his chest, the other marked his thigh. We were not so different, it seemed--both of us marqued by our respective choices in life.
I took him in hungrily, drinking in every single inch of his body, leaning forward to get a glimpse of all of him. Despite all I had been through, the sight of him this way, naked and vulnerable, was enough to cause desire to rise in me. I bit my lip as I imagined him under me as I rode him, my hands on his chest...or him holding me against a wall, plunging deep inside my silken walls...or him behind me, gripping my hips tightly as he cried out my name...
Lost in my revelry, I leaned against the door too heavily, pushing it closed. I gasped--Guy's senses were too sharp, he would hear that. I took off running, holding my robe closed, until somehow I reached Rosalyn's suite and pulled the door closed softly.
I threw the robe onto the ground and slipped into the water, reaching between my legs to rub my pearl in slow gentle circles. The water was soothing, and I leaned my head back and closed my eyes as I allowed the image of Guy, what I had actually seen, to mesh with all the fantasies of him I had ever had. I started to increase my speed, and my back arched in true pleasure as I neared my climax. I bit my lip to keep from screaming as I reached my release, feeling myself clench and release around nothing at all.
I bathed quickly, even ducking under the water to rinse my hair, and then I pulled on the robe and called for the servants.
Would he know it was me? I thought as the servants bustled around me. Amazingly they had found something for me to wear, and although it was a bit tight in the chest it fit as well as reasonably could be expected.
The dress was a deep green, and far more formal than what I was used to. It had a full skirt and a halter top, but since it was pretty much a gift I decided I would grin and bear it. Hopefully Rosalyn wouldn't mind.
My hair was still wet, so the servants swept it up into some semblance of order, off of my neck. I could still feel it dripping a bit, but it couldn't really be helped. After what seemed like an eternity I finally came downstairs into the kitchen.
Corin wrinkled his nose. "Why are you so dressed up?"
"It's all they had that would fit, darling," I said, pinching him hard. "Be quiet." I found a stool to sit on, letting my legs dangle off the ground. "Hopefully Rochelle will be here soon."
"She's alright, isn't she?" Corin asked.
"Of course she is," I said, "just a little banged up. We'll have to be extra nice to her."
Corin blushed. "I was gonna do that already."
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Post by Guy de Layne on Jun 27, 2009 18:38:17 GMT -5
Before I could even make it to the armoire, I heard a sound ... the door closing heavily. On guard, I reached for one of my daggers, never more than an arm's reach away, even when I was bathing. I crept on cautious feet toward the door, pulling it open, dagger at the ready.
And there was no one there but the cat, who blinked at me from the end of the hallway. "I don't suppose you saw anyone, Mittens?" Mittens had no reply, and I shrugged, retreating back into the room and closing the door. Perhaps the events of the day had my nerves on edge.
I dressed quickly, then grabbed my bloody clothes so that I might dispose of them on the way to the kitchen. Before I could rejoin Sandrine however, I had to take care of my weapons, so I went out the servant's entrance to the shed and spent several minutes cleaning my daggers.
Finally I made it to the kitchen, where Sandrine was waiting for me, in one of Rosalyn's dresses that looked infinitely better on Sandrine. It was a bit tight across the chest, which I found a little too alluring for comfort.
"Did you enjoy your bath?" I asked her, trying to keep my eyes off of her chest as we spoke.
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Sandrine nó Orchis
Adept
Orchis House
A little nonsense now and then is relished by the wisest men.
Posts: 776
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Post by Sandrine nó Orchis on Jun 28, 2009 2:30:45 GMT -5
I smiled when I saw Guy, trying not to imagine what I had seen not fifteen minutes ago. I had been idly thinking about what the scar on his thigh would feel like when he came into the door.
The cook and Corin had been assembling a tray of treats for Rochelle. Thankfully, they were leaving just as Guy was arriving, so that I wouldn't be left alone. The very idea made me want to scream.
"Yes, it felt amazing. I must admit, I am sorry that my own dress had to be ruined, but glad that it was the only casualty." I noticed where Guy's eyes were looking, and a blush covered my cheeks as I crossed my arms, hugging myself tightly.
And then I remembered my marque. It was probably at least partially visible. It didn't matter how much was showing, it was still a bit embarrassing. Hopefully no one would notice, though I wasn't sure how anyone could miss the orange ink in my dark skin.
"Do you think Denis and Rosalyn would mind if I ate something?" I asked while looking down, feeling slightly vulnerable even though I was fully clothed. "Corin's already made himself at home, but I figured I should ask so that you can see Orchis teaches its adepts some manners."
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Post by Guy de Layne on Jun 28, 2009 13:55:17 GMT -5
"Not at all," I said, clearing my throat a bit and forcing myself to turn away from her and rummaging through the kitchen. I generally made my own meals, not being comfortable using servants, so I knew where everything was. "There is some leftover meat and cheese from lunch, it looks like... oh, and of course, there are always sweets." I laughed, shaking my head. "Rochelle and Denis both have a sweet tooth." I looked over at her, enjoying this domestic activity between the two of us.
"What would you like, my lady?"
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Sandrine nó Orchis
Adept
Orchis House
A little nonsense now and then is relished by the wisest men.
Posts: 776
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Post by Sandrine nó Orchis on Jun 28, 2009 16:08:52 GMT -5
"That all sounds good," I said, gratefully, still hugging myself, perched on my stool. I felt a bit anxious and shaky, even though I knew there was nothing to fear in the house. "Some of everything, please. Do you need my help? Maybe not with cutting," I said with a smile, remembering the first time we met.
"What is going to happen to the guard? Remy, was it?" I shivered, still feeling a bit self-conscious about my marque. "I can't imagine he will remain a guard here."
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Post by Guy de Layne on Jun 28, 2009 16:25:06 GMT -5
"No, I'm sure Denis has already sent for the authorities." I was sure of no such thing, but I turned my thoughts from that course. Unless I learned otherwise, I would assume that Denis would handle this legally.
I prepared a small plate of meat and cheese for Sandrine, handing it to her before also finding some tarts that appeared to be lemon, adding those to another small plate and setting it near her. I was about to make a plate for myself, when one of the servants poked her head into the kitchen.
"Rochelle wishes to see you, Guy, if you have a moment?"
I turned to Sandrine and smiled ruefully, "Duty calls, but I will return momentarily." I allowed the servant to escort me away, leaving Sandrine to finish her repast in peace.
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Post by Denis de Rouille on Jun 28, 2009 17:03:24 GMT -5
The tension in the room was palpable, and as my eyes went from Remy to Francois, the carriage driver, I had had enough.
"I am not sure what you hoped to gain by kidnapping my child, but I think we can all agree that things did not go as planned." I sat back in the chair at my desk, steepling my fingers. Francois sat at a chair in front of my desk stoically, while Remy sat to the right of him, sobbing anew. "What I would really like to know, and what may make things easier on you, is to know who orchestrated this mess. I find it hard to believe that it was either of you two numbskulls."
Francois said nothing, but lifted his chin and met my gaze with his own hard-lipped stare. Without warning, he spat on my desk. "I will tell you nothing!"
I believed him, actually, and I did not have the energy to force the information from him, what with the sobbing Remy right here, practically begging to tell me everything. I nodded to Jax, who said nothing and simply stepped up behind Francois and slit his throat neatly. Remy began to sob even more loudly, and I shook my head with disgust. There was something about seeing a grown man this hysterical that was profoundly disturbing.
"Now, Remy, I imagine you would like to avoid Francois' fate. Who put you up to this?"
"P-p-please...Denis, if I tell you, I'm as good as dead..."
I had to laugh at that. "And what do you think your chances are if you don't?"
Shuddering, Remy closed his and took a deep breath, then gave me what I wanted. "LaPierre... he wanted a ransom, and to warn you to stay off of his turf."
I knew it! "Thank you, Remy, that was very forthcoming of you."
"Are you going to let me go now?"
I snorted derisively. "Oh Remy, now what type of precedent would that set?" I nodded again to Jax, who grabbed Remy by the arm and forced him to his feet. "Take him outside and dispose of him." I rose and gestured to Francois' body. "And this one, as well. Try to be discreet, please."
I rose from my desk and walked to the door, wiping a droplet of blood from doublet I was wearing, which was thankfully black. Once out the door, I found a servant and told her to get the den cleaned. I watched with annoyance as Jax dragged Remy down the hall, the man kicking and screaming as he was pulled out of the servant's entrance. I was glad to have the matter over with, and I found that I was feeling a bit peckish.
I followed the path Jax had taken, making a left toward the kitchen. I was surprised to see the lovely Sandrine there, helping herself to some leftovers. And wearing a dress that looked far better on her than my wife.
"Well, well, I can see that my evening is looking up already." I said, smiling and stepping forward, placing my hands on her shoulders and leaning to give her the kiss of greeting.
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Sandrine nó Orchis
Adept
Orchis House
A little nonsense now and then is relished by the wisest men.
Posts: 776
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Post by Sandrine nó Orchis on Jun 28, 2009 17:24:53 GMT -5
I really didn't want to sit there by myself, but Guy and the servant were gone before I could stop them. I took a deep shuddering breath before I started eating. As soon as the first bite passed my lips, I realized how hungry I was and started to tuck in in earnest.
I finished the meat and cheese quickly, and I wiped my mouth with a nearby cloth to get rid of all the crumbs. I was about to take a bite of the tart when I heard the approach of footsteps and sat up as Denis came into the room. He was one of the last people I wanted to see right now, but he had been nothing but nice to me, and I repressed a shudder as he kissed me gently. The touch of his hands and lips made my skin crawl. I didn't think it was Denis specifically, but I kept thinking about that man had caressed me.
"It's good to see you, Denis," I said, smiling as best I could. "Thank you so much for everything, your hospitality has been so wonderful." I looked down for an instant at the dress, and then back up at him. "You must remember to thank your wife for us as well."
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Post by Denis de Rouille on Jun 28, 2009 17:59:30 GMT -5
"I am curious as to how you are involved in this little scenario." I said, filching a tart of my own from the plate and taking a bite. "It must be a fascinating tale."
I stepped back a bit and surveyed her, noticing that some of her marque showed because of the way the dress was cut. I found it quite arousing, that forbidden little detail, even though I had of course seen it in it's entirety during our assignation. She seemed somewhat nervous, jumpy, or was I imagining things? I highly doubted it, as I wasn't given to flights of fancy.
Still, it was a bit interesting, this new nervousness of hers, and it whetted my curiousity for the tale of her involvement in this sorry mess.
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Sandrine nó Orchis
Adept
Orchis House
A little nonsense now and then is relished by the wisest men.
Posts: 776
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Post by Sandrine nó Orchis on Jun 28, 2009 18:56:44 GMT -5
I really didn't want to talk about it. Not to anyone and not to Denis. But I felt somewhat obligated, seeing as I was sitting in his house, eating his food and wearing his wife's dress. I put down my tart and wrapped my arms around myself again.
"I'm not sure about fascinating," I said softly, looking down. "Corin--the little boy that was with me--and I were going to meet Rochelle for our weekly food distribution in Night's Doorstep. Corin and I arrived before our cart, and we noticed that your carriage was there. All of sudden Remy pulled Rochelle out of the carriage and knocked her out. He and the driver talked about something, and then Remy carried her off. I wasn't sure what to do, but I decided to follow them. So I tore off bits of my dress and left them in the street, kind of like a trail for Guy, because I knew he would come." I kept my head down so that he wouldn't see the blush that I was doing my damnedest to repress. "He really cares for Rochelle, you know." I smiled for an instant before continuing.
"I followed Remy to a building in the Night's Doorstep. I knocked on the door and they grabbed me, blindfolded me, and sat me down next Rochelle." I willed my voice not to shake. "I told them they should let them go and keep me, but they took her downstairs."
This was the worst part. I felt utter shame as a tear slipped down my cheek. Maybe I didn't have to tell Denis every single moment of the event, but I still remembered it so vividly, and my heart started to pound painfully in my chest. I kept my head down as I talked. "Then Guy came in...I don't know where he came in, but he did...and he killed the man that was upstairs with me...that's where the blood on the dress came from." I sighed and closed my eyes. "I stood at the top of the stairs with a statue as a weapon in case someone came upstairs, but luckily Rochelle spoke before she came upstairs." I smiled despite my distress. "She's a smart girl. And then Guy came upstairs with Remy and it was over, thank Elua."
I felt drained as I finished, looking up at him as a few more tears fell, then looking away. "I'm sorry, I don't mean to cry, Denis, it was just...just very scary." I wiped my eyes with the back of my hand before I returned my arm to its position, hugging myself again. "Guy saved us, he really did."
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Post by Denis de Rouille on Jun 28, 2009 21:09:37 GMT -5
I listened to her tale in silence, feeling the anger of this betrayal all over again. I realized that I was clenching my fist, and took care to relax, even as I watched Sandrine tear up. Another man might have felt tenderness at such a sight, but I found myself wondering how soon I could get another assignation with Sandrine.
"It's alright, love." I said, trying to appear sensitive. "That's what I pay him for." I added with a smile. As if I had somehow saved the day by doing so. I liked having Guy around, but I found the man insufferable personally. All that nobility had to be stifling. I imagined that he would probably be moved by a woman's tears, and I had to stop myself from rolling my eyes.
"At any rate, all's well that end's well." I said with relief as she wiped away her tears. "Say, perhaps you'd like to spend the night? I'm sure we could get a message to your Dowayne." The idea had taken root in my mind at the sight of her tears, and I felt the familiar itch for a woman underneath me.
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Sandrine nó Orchis
Adept
Orchis House
A little nonsense now and then is relished by the wisest men.
Posts: 776
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Post by Sandrine nó Orchis on Jun 28, 2009 21:56:04 GMT -5
I looked up at him, eyes searching his face. Was he serious?
"I'm not sure that's a good idea, Denis," I said, looking away. I wanted to run out of the door. I didn't want him to touch me. But I couldn't be rude, not to one of my best patrons. "I'm really tired, and...and I don't want to waste your money." There, that should speak to him. Though I knew I was more than just a prostitute, that was all that Denis seemed to think of me. It hurt, but in this case maybe I could convince him that I wasn't worth it now. "I think that waiting a few days would be better for both of us."
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Post by Denis de Rouille on Jun 28, 2009 23:35:39 GMT -5
I stifled a sigh at her words, obviously she was in no mood for my attentions tonight. Well, there were plenty of others like her, and I was not keen to sit around the house after everything that had gone on today. The adrenaline was flowing and I needed to work it out.
"Well, let me escort you home, then, as it seems I will be headed that way myself." I smiled at her, though I was already trying to decide which House I would visit tonight. I was a bit strapped for coin lately, but I had two less retainers to pay, after all. "Let me just get us a carriage and we can be on our way."
I didn't want to give her a chance to demur, so I left the room without awaiting her response.
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Post by Guy de Layne on Jun 28, 2009 23:40:10 GMT -5
I met Denis going out of the kitchen, and it was all I could do not to frown at him. I didn't like him being alone with Sandrine, even though I knew he was a regular patron of hers. Or because of that, I supposed.
He didn't say anything to me, just nodded and called for Danya, one of the servants. I soon forgot about him as I entered the kitchen and saw Sandrine again, looking upset.
"What's wrong?" Immediately I cursed myself for leaving her alone. "Did Denis say something to upset you?" I knew he was my employer, but so help me, if he hurt Sandrine he would regret it.
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Sandrine nó Orchis
Adept
Orchis House
A little nonsense now and then is relished by the wisest men.
Posts: 776
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Post by Sandrine nó Orchis on Jun 29, 2009 0:34:24 GMT -5
I hated to disappoint anyone, least of all a patron. His meaning was clear to me, if he was going to Mont Nuit with me. I felt little affection for Denis, but his gifts and steady patronage were something I had grown accustomed to. Before I could protest--I would much rather ride with Guy--he had left the room.
The tarts sat there untouched. I was staring at them, lost in thought, wishing I had something to cover my shoulders and back with, when Guy walked in to the room. I jumped when he spoke to me--I hadn't even heard his approach. "Nothing's wrong, Guy," I lied, looking up at him. "I just feel a little anxious...and sore." I gestured to my face and laughed humorlessly. "Usually when I get in a fight, I get a chance to hit back. Do I look like someone slapped me?" I asked.
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Post by Guy de Layne on Jun 29, 2009 0:40:10 GMT -5
My blood boiled at the very thought, but I managed not to let it show on my face. "No, actually, you look a little tired, that's all. Which is good, because I don't want to have to explain to your Dowayne why I was bringing you home all bruised up as if you were a Valerian!"
I took a tart from the plate and bit into it, then said, "Corin is looking a little sleepy, and I don't know how much longer Rochelle can stay up, so I'll go get us a carriage, and then I'll get you home, safe and sound."
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Sandrine nó Orchis
Adept
Orchis House
A little nonsense now and then is relished by the wisest men.
Posts: 776
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Post by Sandrine nó Orchis on Jun 29, 2009 1:12:28 GMT -5
The laughter died on my lips when Guy suggested the carriage. "I think that Denis is going to escort me home," I said, looking down. "Of course I'd rather that you take me home..." I sighed softly. "...but I already turned him down for an assignation...so I feel a bit guilty."
The words all came out in a big rush, and I wished I hadn't said them. I didn't want Guy to be upset, not after all he'd done for me. Quickly, before he could stop me, I reached for his hand and kissed it gently. "Will you...come with me to get Corin? I'd like to say goodbye to Rochelle before we leave."
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Post by Guy de Layne on Jun 29, 2009 1:17:50 GMT -5
The tart turned to ashes in my mouth, and for one moment I wanted to strangle Denis with my bare hands. And then I felt a little thrill when she said she turned him down for an assignation. But still, what if he tried something in the carriage?
Her next words reminded me that Corin would be with her, and I felt a little better. "Yes, of course. We had better go say goodnight before the children fall asleep." I turned to leave the kitchen, checking to make sure she was following me, then continuing down the hall and up the stairs. Rochelle's door was cracked open and I poked my head in, to see both Rochelle and Corin asleep on the large double bed.
I turned back to Sandrine and put my finger to my lips, then pushed the door open all the way and pointed at the sleeping children.
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Sandrine nó Orchis
Adept
Orchis House
A little nonsense now and then is relished by the wisest men.
Posts: 776
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Post by Sandrine nó Orchis on Jun 29, 2009 2:09:23 GMT -5
I walked behind Guy, looking around him to see the sleeping children. I smiled up at him, slipping my hand into his. I had never thought about what it would be like to light a candle to Eisheth. The idea had not even crossed my mind. And yet, for one fleeting moment, I thought of how nice it might be to have a child with Guy, to come into the babe's room during the night and watch as she slept.
Oh, Elua, Naamah, and Eisheth, I must be in love to think things like that.
"It's so rare to see Corin quiet," I whispered, laughing softly. I wrapped my arms around him as I stood on the tips of my toes and kissed Guy on the cheek. "Thank you so much for saving Rochelle and I, Guy...for everything."
How I wished I could do more, really thank him the best way I knew how. But, just like everything else in our relationship, this would have to be enough.
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Post by Guy de Layne on Jun 29, 2009 21:20:11 GMT -5
Once again, Sandrine took my hand in hers. I squeezed it lightly, loving the feeling. Staring at the sleeping children, I felt a pang of longing in my belly for the children I would never have. I hadn't even realized that I was interested in such a thing until this very moment, here with Sandrine.
I could easily imagine our children, with her dark skin tone and wild curls and a ghost of a smile crossed my lips. I might not ever be able to have children, but I had Rochelle, and perhaps even Corin would look upon me as a father-figure someday. I would have to be content with that, I supposed.
When Sandrine slipped her arms around me and kissed my cheek, I shivered at the closeness of her. She smelled clean and sweet, and looking down over her shoulder, I could see her marque. I let my fingers touch it softly, then forced myself to pull back, my heart hammering almost painfully in my chest.
"You don't have to thank me, Sandi. I can't imagine what life would be like without you in it, and Rochelle, either." I might have said more, but I heard the sound of someone coming up the stairs. I jumped away from Sandrine as if she were made of flame, trying to gain my composure before whoever it was reached the landing.
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Sandrine nó Orchis
Adept
Orchis House
A little nonsense now and then is relished by the wisest men.
Posts: 776
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Post by Sandrine nó Orchis on Jun 29, 2009 22:35:49 GMT -5
I stiffened when he touched my marque. I still felt self conscious about it, but at least I hadn't been to the marquist recently. The skin wasn't tender, thank Elua.
Despite all the pain that I had experienced since Guy had come into my life, I was so happy I had met him, and that he loved me like I loved him. "I can't help it," I said, softly. "I'll thank you every day of my life for this, Guy."
I had almost made up my mind to kiss him on the lips, just once, when Guy jumped away from me like he had been burned. I was going to protest--the children were asleep, weren't they?--when I heard a step behind us and knew why he had moved so quickly. His reflexes were amazing!
I moved closer to the bed and kissed Rochelle on the forehead, trying to make it seem as if nothing was going on between us and Guy.
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Post by Denis de Rouille on Jun 29, 2009 22:46:07 GMT -5
Having arranged for the carriage, I went back to the kitchen, but Sandrine had gone. I was irritated at first, but then one of the servants appeared, telling me that Sandrine had gone upstairs to say goodbye to Rochelle and collect the urchin that had accompanied her.
I frowned slightly as I mounted the steps that led up to Rochelle's suite of rooms, unsure if I liked this new development. It was all fine and good for Sandrine to be here when I was paying her, but I didn't necessarily think that an Adept was appropriate company for my daughter. Well, I supposed if the Cassiline was about there was no chance of anything untoward occurring, so I dismissed the thought and continued past the first landing.
When I reached Rochelle's rooms, sure enough Guy and Sandrine were there, looking over the children as if they were the parents. The thought amused me enough to cause a smile to play over my lips as I approached my daughter's bedside. That smile quickly soured when I saw that she was lying on the bed with the Orchis boy. That would never do! I determined that Guy and I would have to have a talk about what was proper behavior for my daughter.
But not tonight. Tonight I wanted release, and I didn't want to wait all night.
"Are you ready, Sandrine?"
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Sandrine nó Orchis
Adept
Orchis House
A little nonsense now and then is relished by the wisest men.
Posts: 776
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Post by Sandrine nó Orchis on Jun 29, 2009 23:38:45 GMT -5
I looked up when I heard Denis' voice, as if I didn't expect to hear him. I could have stood there all night with Guy, but of course all good things must come to an end. Gently I smoothed a few strands from Rochelle's forehead as I straightened and looked at Denis. I smiled as charmingly as I could at my patron.
"Yes, of course. I just wanted to say goodbye to Rochelle." I looked at Guy, tugging my left earlobe gently, hoping he remembered our signal. "Guy, can you help carry Corin to the carriage?"
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Post by Guy de Layne on Jun 29, 2009 23:45:56 GMT -5
"Of course." I said simply, stepping up to the bed and lifting Corin gently. I could tell by Denis' expression that he was annoyed, though by what I had no idea. I prayed that he hadn't seen Sandrine and I, but I knew that if he had, I would be hearing about it. Denis had no subtlety, it was one of the many things I disliked about the man.
As I walked by Sandrine, I smiled and tugged my earlobe slightly, hoping she caught it. Once downstairs, I waited for one of the servants to open the door for me, so that I might lay Corin gently in the carriage. Relieved of my burden, I stepped back, sad to see Sandrine go, especially with Denis.
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