January 1827
Christmas day came and went along as did the New Year's day celebration. It was all a jumble of emotions for Beth that she felt faint a few times. Many families sent them their best wishes and Lady Marjorie sent elaborate gifts and even more elaborate bouquets of flowers.
At Charles's request, they declined all invitations and spent the days together. On the eve of the new year, Charles gave her a gift, and at the stroke of midnight, as they stood on the balcony, he kissed her. It was real and equally overwhelming.
The few days they had before he left to show his allegiance to the King and the kingdom were filled with duties and preparations. Charles was constantly out of the mansion, preparing for his trip – as he would call it – and Beth worked together with the men at the building site, managing as well as she could before her visit to Westside Manor. They worked hard all day, but the nights were filled with intense and passionate lovemaking.
