Chapter 21
“What do you mean this manor is mine, Uncle. I thought my father was dead.�
“Well, he is,� Auguste’s Uncle Edmond replied. “But he held it in trust before he gave it to you.�
Auguste nodded. He shrugged and looked around the manor. “What am I to do with this? This place is so tiny and I am not a farmer.�
“I wasn’t either, Auguste, but you could find plenty to do, especially since you will be marrying in another year.�
Auguste sputtered. “What are you talking about? I do not have any fiancée whatsoever.�
His uncle smiled and looked straight at him.
“Of course you do. Did no one explain this to you?�
Auguste shook his head. “I do not believe so.�
“Well than,� Edmond said, “someone has to explain it to you. Nicole de Lancret is your intended. Brought about when you two were tiny.�
Auguste stared at his uncle. “What?� he exclaimed, “I cannot believe this?� He tried to keep from smiling, but it wasn’t working.
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Francis and Marie decided to marry anyway, they would sooner or later and they decide to make it sooner.
They went to the ruins to make love and get to know each other, not necessarily in that order.
They fell asleep in each other’s arms and woke to see the sunrise.
Now, as they were getting dressed, they heard horses hooves riding up to the door.
He didn’t have to go in, he saw them sitting on the hill. He walked up after them.
“Your Highness,� the courier called, “ I am the bearer of bad news. You must come back with me now.�
Francis shook his head. “We’ll see about that? Can’t you see that I am…�
“Your Highness, this is an urgent matter. You must come with me now.�