Title: The Angel of Grey Garden
Publishing Date: 2019
Author: Anita Stansfield
Publisher: Covenant Communications, Inc.
Category: LDS Contemporary Romance
Point of View: Third Person Limited- Constance and Samuel
Chapter Count: 13
Page Count: 238
Chapter 1 The Evil Mark
Kent, England- 1810
Meet Constance Wright, haunted by an unfortunate event that occurred at church several years ago when the vicar expounded on the story of Cain in the Bible, who everyone knows was forever cursed by God who saw fit to put an evil mark on him. ("Any kind of mark is EVIL, I tell you!") He was looking right at Constance when he said that and it seemed the entire congregation turned to look at her, sitting between her goodly parents who were just as horrified with their spiritual leader, singling out their shy, sensitive (and WAY past her expiration date) daughter like that.
Publisher: Covenant Communications, Inc.
Category: LDS Contemporary Romance
Point of View: Third Person Limited- Constance and Samuel
Chapter Count: 13
Page Count: 238
Chapter 1 The Evil Mark
Kent, England- 1810
Meet Constance Wright, haunted by an unfortunate event that occurred at church several years ago when the vicar expounded on the story of Cain in the Bible, who everyone knows was forever cursed by God who saw fit to put an evil mark on him. ("Any kind of mark is EVIL, I tell you!") He was looking right at Constance when he said that and it seemed the entire congregation turned to look at her, sitting between her goodly parents who were just as horrified with their spiritual leader, singling out their shy, sensitive (and WAY past her expiration date) daughter like that.
As a result, Constance has never set foot in the church since and has gone inactive and nobody in the village cares. She'd always been the victim of playground bullying and marginalization. This young woman has absolutely no friends, only her well respected parents but Constance knows her kind, sympathetic and supportive parents will not always be around to offer their moral or financial support. But what other choice does she have but to live here in the home she grew up in, remain in self-isolation, cut off from all social life thanks to the hideous mark on her face. The infection. Which poisons any chance of love she might ever have.
Constance has dull, wispy brown hair with plenty of flyaways forever tickling her face as she dutifully completes her household chores. She is twenty-six, painfully single, but quite lovely with green eyes and full lips.
Constance has dull, wispy brown hair with plenty of flyaways forever tickling her face as she dutifully completes her household chores. She is twenty-six, painfully single, but quite lovely with green eyes and full lips.
Too bad nobody can see past that birthmark. It's ruined her life.
The birthmark is deep red, about the size of a small plumb, and has been sitting on her right cheek since the day she was born.
Francis and Frances Wright (hereby referred to as "Frank and Fanny" for the rest of the novel by the author) are pig farmers by trade. Frank works hard all day outside while Constance and Fanny keep house with Constance doing more and more as her parents are getting on in years-she doesn't mind this at all. As the middle child of seven children who remained at home while every single one of her other siblings married, moved out and started families of their own (we will never meet any of them) Frank and Fanny are naturally concerned about their daughter's hermit-like behavior and chronically single status but never press the issue. Their daughter's an adult, what can they do? Constance feels perhaps it is her lot in life to be a companion and helpmeet to her gracious parents who appreciate all she does for them around the house and never give her any grief about her pathetic marital or social status.
With a loving smile, Fanny invites her daughter to take a break from her cleaning and join her for a cup of tea. They chat pleasantly. Later, Frank comes in from tending the pigs and yardwork to join them (AFTER he's washed his hands!) for dinner. Constance observes her parents' comfortable relationship with each other and tries not feel envious. They are still very much in love. Constance feels the old familiar sting. DARN this birthmark!
Meanwhile, meet Samuel Fitzroy Blackwood, Earl of Grey Manor. Since his wife Amelia died about a year ago, his only reason in life for going on is his two young children-7 yr old Jamison and 4 yr old Amy who spend their entire waking lives here in the big house living in the nursery with a nanny and governess to look after them and romping outside in the formal gardens. They never go on play dates (at least none we are shown) have no friends yet are happy and well-adjusted children, never giving their father a bit of trouble while every single one of the servants are equally happy and well-adjusted! It is now the end of the day and the children run eagerly into their father's open arms in the nursery where he always comes to spend "quality time" with them. As usual, they are anxious to share with their adoring father all the activities of their day while Samuel dreads the time after he tucks them into bed (singing "Hushabye Mountain?") when he must face his own cold, empty bed...alone.
Chapter 2 The Missing Piece
Samuel reads the 1810 version of a Caldacott storybook aloud to his children who tell him not to feel bad he doesn't do the character voices as well as Mommy did, she's in heaven now with all the angels and in a better place. Samuel is then thrown completely off-guard when Amy adds that one day, the will have a NEW mother! Mommy told her so! Thinking of the dating pool out there he has to choose from, Samuel only chuckles at the naivete of his daughter. No woman could ever replace Amelia.
As his manservant/valet helps him get ready for bed, Samuel reflects on what his children said. Could Amelia be whispering in their ears from beyond the grave? Creepy. Three days later, Samuel is again having his family time with his children who are perfectly content to put together a puzzle in the nursery with him. But, oh look! A significant piece is missing. When it is found the next day, Samuel KNOWS this is a sign. He needs to start looking for a mother for his children.
Chapter 3 The Garden Party
After a little "heart to heart" (something this author is famous for!) with his valet who, as far as we know, is a nevermarried, old-enough-to-be-his-father, faithful servant, religious and wise; it is decided the best way for this lonely widower to meet any eligible young ladies in the area is to host a garden party. Samuel is rather cynical such a plan will work. So many of the single ladies in the village are either "stuck up snobs" or desperate old maids who are still single for a reason. Anyhow, they're all airheads and he wants nothing to do with them. But, he'll do it for his children because for some strange reason they REALLY need a mother and Samuel is determined to find one.
As typical in an Anita Stansfield book, the entire staff have no problem with all the extra work and planning and overtime this event will require. Meanwhile, on the pig farm, Constance is blissfully unaware of the way her life is about to be turned upside down when Fanny enters waving the invitation to the ball garden party at the manor house. The entire village has been invited to the biggest social event of the year. Constance has no intention of going, of course. Her parents respect this and don't push her to attend.
On the day of the party, Samuel makes the rounds as "the Earl" making sure all his guests feel welcome and have enough to eat. His children are running around with all the other village children while he converses pleasantly with many happily married, middle class families. Everyone he's met so far have been delightful and for a short time, Samuel nearly forgets his secret wife-hunting mission; the entire reason for hosting this event.
Chapter 4 The Missing Woman
With the sigh of a martyr, Samuel makes himself talk to the mothers with single daughters. Some only eye him like a piece of meat while others turn up their nose, hinting the richest man in the neighborhood is not good enough for them. At his wit's end, Samuel finds his faithful valet for advice who informs him there's still one respectable, middle-class couple sitting over there, under that tree, with whom he's not had the pleasure of meeting. The valet knows them personally. Wonderful family. And they have an unmarried daughter to boot! A good, kind, hardworking and lovely woman who is conspicuously absent! Why, you ask? Well, go over there and find out!
Samuel does just that. He introduces himself but Frank and Fanny know who he is (naturally!) and are aware of his unfortunate circumstances-losing his wife and all. Samuel wastes no time making his intentions for hosting this party known (he did not do this with his other guests). His children miss their mother, are pushing him to start dating again so he invited every eligible maiden in the kingdom to this party hoping to find a wife. Since none of the unmarried women at this party succeeded in attracting his interest, he would like to invite this mysterious, reclusive and very single daughter he just learned about, along with Frank and Fanny, over for dinner at the Manor House to see if this could lead to a possible marriage. Fanny suggests a better idea-Samuel should come to dinner at THEIR home first where Constance might feel more comfortable. A time is agreed for the upcoming Sunday and Samuel makes a graceful exit. Nobody said anything about the birthmark nor was any explanation given for Constance's absence-she is shy and has been treated unkindly by others in the village because of it, that's all.
Back at the farmhouse/cottage, Constance already had her solitary cry of self-pity and, with red eyes, is intent on doing her needlework when her parents come home and drop the bomb...
Chapter 5 Seeing Constance
So, despite already having a very capable nanny and governess in his employ, Constance is astounded the Earl is going out of his way to meet and consider HER as a suitable mother for his two children. Her parents answer, yes, this is exactly why the Earl accepted their invitation to this blind date. Bouncing between hope and despair, Constance suffers qualms over the next few days, stays home that Sunday, as usual while her parents attend services-as usual. A new vicar was called years ago who did stop by one day to invite Constance back to the fold, but the damage was done. Her parents report the Earl was there, as usual, and this time he went out of his way to talk to them! Constance almost faints from nerves. One look at her evil mark and he's going to bolt, she just knows it!
At one minute to seven, a knock at the door and the Earl is graciously welcomed into their humble home. With no reaction to the mark on her face, he kisses Constance's hand and she blushes. He IS a handsome guy with deep set blue eyes who insists they call him Samuel. When he asks Constance what she enjoys doing in her spare time she replies she likes to read and do needlework.
POV then switches to Samuel who also battled nerves for the last few days and now feels silly, breaking bread in this charming, cozy little hovel. Sure, Constance has a dark red impossible-to-miss birthmark on her face but her other features are perfectly fine. She is quiet but every comment she's made so far has been full of wit and intelligence and grace. The attraction is there and the food (leg of lamb) is delicious.
After the meal, Samuel comments he noticed a bit of wilderness just on the other side of the house and wonders if Constance might take a turn with him in it. Constance agrees and her parents are only too happy to push them outside where they can sit in private on the stone bench and get to know each other better. Constance informs him she is already aware of his REAL intentions for coming over today and she has no problem with it. While they hardly know each other both feel good about this prospective friendship. Samuel proposes they go on a few dates and see what happens. Constance agress. Oh and by the way, Samuel informs her, he DID notice the mark on her face but assures her it will ever be an issue between them. He's not that kind of man. His children also are very well bred and have been taught since infancy to accept ALL people with love and acceptance just the way they are. He truly hopes they can all become friends. Constance looks away shyly and agrees to a second date, tomorrow-teatime, so she can meet his children. IF they were to marry, Samuel hints, she needs to understand now this would NOT be a conventional marriage but one of convenience. He was already married once and he could never replace his beloved Amelia. Constance understands. His dead wife will always come first. She decides she could live with that. But she'll wait until tomorrow after she meets his children...
Chapter 6 Master and Mistress of Grey Manor
Of course Frank and Fanny are included in the invitation for tea tomorrow as well so they can also meet the children. Constance reflects more on this new relationship she in embarking on to her parents. If it DID lead to marriage, repeating to them what Samuel told her yesterday, it would NOT be a conventional one. But he would make her happy and her parents agree that is all that really matters anyway when choosing a spouse.
They drive their own trap up to the big house where servants take over caring for the horses while ushering the guests inside to an upstairs drawing room. They oo and ah over the luxurious "Parade of Homes" mansion. Samuel enters and compliments the ladies on their appearance, greets Frank warmly and, as if waiting for a silent signal, tea is brought in by the servants. Conversation is very pleasant but Constance is too nervous to enjoy anything in her apprehension in the upcoming meeting in the nursery with the children who will probably make rude, insensitive comments about her face.
This turns out to be utter nonsense of course. The TRUE "master and mistress of Grey Manor" hug and kiss Constance before inviting her to play with dolls and blocks and other toys. Samuel watches and both share a look of relief with each other.
Chapter 7 Angel Kiss
As their mother taught them (Mr. Rogers-style!) EVERYONE is special, those with birthmarks especially for Mommy always said they were "angel kisses" and Constance must be extra special to have gotten such a big one from an angel! Tears stream down Constance's face as the children, very politely, ask if they may kiss and even touch her special mark? They touch it almost reverently before the mood changes and they all get back to playing their game. Samuel joins in too.
The children can't wait to be introduced to their "surrogate grandparents" who are still downstairs waiting to meet them. Naturally everyone, the entire staff, are so friendly and helpful and completely nonjudgmental of Constance's atrocious birthmark as she is shown a spare room where she can freshen up a bit before dinner.
When Samuel asks, Constance happily admits to enjoying her visit, thus far, very much. Samuel agrees-he IS very blessed-as they enter the dining room where the four adults (AGAIN) enjoy more pleasant conversation and delicious food. They move to the parlor where the children are brought in by the servants to meet Frank and Fanny and coffee is served for the adults. With evening chores waiting back on the pig farm, the Wright family takes their leave gushing over this incredible "Downtown Abbey" experience they just had all during the drive home. Constance again speaks her mind aloud to her very married parents: possible marriage to the Earl would mean a very drastic lifestyle change for both herself and her parents. It is obvious the children's needs would always come first in this marriage but what's that compared to the dull, dreary, miserable life of a lonely old maid still living with her parents. Constance muses to herself she's already fallen in love with those two adorable children. Does it really matter if she'll never have the heart of her husband?
Quick! Somebody give Constance Eleanore's phone number from "Barrington Family Saga!"
Chapter 8 Amelia's Wish
That night, Constance has her first dream of Amelia but it's very vague-an impression really, a presence, that this dead woman approves of her. She awakens, troubled. What does it mean? Should she pursue a relationship with this man? A note from the Manor House later that day answers the question. An invitation from the children (composed with the help of a servant) for Constance to come on a picnic to be held in the gardens with themselves and father. Constance is requested to send her reply with the servant and they truly hope she can make it. Very properly signed "Jamison and Amy Blackwood of Grey Manor." Constance is pleased to learn her (boyfriend/fiancee's???) surname and laughs reading it aloud to her equally delighted parents. Of COURSE she will be accepting the invite.
This outing, like all previous "dates" thus far is just as perfect. The children run around the formal gardens of Grey Manor so Constance and Samuel can set up the picnic and chat and get to know each other better. Turns out they are picnicking near the very same angel statue where Constance stops with a small gasp. Her dream! It's a sign! She keeps this to herself as the children come running to start the meal. They again scamper off to play tag with each other and the two adults agree this friendship could very naturally escalate into courtship. If so, Constance will be meeting his family, namely all his sisters for he is the only son. Constance can't wait. Samuel thanks her for spending the day with them but the pleasure was all HERS, of course! Samuel walks her out to the carriage that came to pick her up that morning and will now return her to her parent's home. He would like to see her again. Tomorrow, if possible. Constance takes the liberty of inviting HIM over for tea and supper. The children will stay home this time. And so, it's all settled.
Chapter 9 A Convenient Arrangement
For Samuel, his mind is made up. He will court this good woman with the intention of marrying her. He'll ask her parents' permission, of course when he goes for tea tomorrow. Again the phrase "marriage of convenience" is used in the narrative for he intends to provide for both Constance and her parent's every need. Constance will never want for anything. She'll have a good life and be a good mother to his children and together they will enrich each other's lives. A million single girls would kill for such an opportunity.
Constance wakes up and gets ready for the day. She helps her mother prepare a mutton stew, fresh baked bread and a cake to serve their guest. Then the usual household chores are tackled until it is time to freshen up and get ready. By this point, Constance has worn all three of her good dresses but she figures Samuel doesn't appear to be the type of man who really cares about such things anyway! Samuel arrives, the meal is eaten, everything is hunky-dory. Again Samuel initiates another private conversation with Constance outside on the stone bench this time to propose a formal courtship. He admits he is astonished just how quickly they became best friends in so short a time. The children are crazy about her and, Samuel takes a quick breath, while he will always love Amelia and she will always be first in his heart, he IS open to the idea of marriage to another woman. He wants Constance to take this time as well, to decide if this is also what SHE wants-a marriage of convenience-a life that would be very different from life on a farm. Constance takes several paragraphs to ponder this: living in a fabulous mansion with servants waiting on her hand and foot, a new wardrobe, never going hungry again and enough money so her entire family could live very comfortably for the rest of their lives BUT...she would never have his heart.
Oh, what the heck, SHE'LL DO IT!!!
Samuel again assures her no one will dare say anything to her about that hideous birthmark on her face for he is THE EARL and he intends to be seen with her everywhere they go. This includes church. Constance hesitates. Go back THERE? To church? Taking a deep breath she decides as long as she has a man at her side, she can do anything! Then it's decided.
Samuel and Constance return to the farmhouse to share the good news with Frank and Fanny who give their blessing on the courtship. Samuel adds IF they were to marry he would like to officially announce his intention of having Frank and Fanny move into the Manor house so he could care for them properly. They would have their own quarters and servants to wait on them. He'll find someone else to raise the pigs and they'll never have to work again. All agree, this is truly an act of Providence!
Chapter 10 A New Family
Unbelievable! Constance can hardly fall asleep that night, her mind is whirling so fast at all these new developments for both herself and her family. The next day, Samuel returns with the children and everyone has a wonderful time. While the children play in another room with some old toys that belonged to Constance, Samuel takes this opportunity to probe a little more as to the specific reasons why Constance is such a hermit and why she has no friends? The story of that terrible, awful, no good very bad Sunday is repeated. Samuel gasps in all the right places. That evil vicar, how DARE he? Thank goodness he had the good sense to resign and move away else Samuel would've dismissed him, and the bullying she endured from the village. Unfortunate incidents all, but at least they can put it behind them now.
Church is fine. There's a few outright stares of curiosity for how could anyone miss the fact that Earl is dating a woman who is WAY below him on the social ladder and that the most eligible bachelor in town is now off the market. NOBODY says anything! The new vicar preaches his usual sermon, Constance finds she able to relax and enjoy the service and hymn singing. Narration says a few people speak politely to both Constance and Samuel, they get back in the carriage and...that's it!
Summer flies by. Constance is now a regular church attendee. Samuel and Constance divide their time between pig farm and Manor House: playing with the children, strolling the formal gardens, enjoying meals at the cottage until one day Constance realizes she has fallen in love with this good man. Narration says Samuel officially proposes marriage and Constance accepts. The wedding will be a very quiet and simple affair. Samuel has no problem with that and graciously offers his entire staff to assist Constance and her mother with everything they might need to plan the crazy rich Asian wedding of the century-if only these women were more worldly! Constance walks Samuel out to the barn where he parked his horse, he kisses her hand and rides off into the sunset while Constance marvels at how her life has changed. She absolutely KNOWS marrying this man is the right thing to do.
Next day, a dressmaker arrives at the pig farm, sent by Samuel, for all three are to have new wardrobes in preparation for their new lives as residents of Grey Manor after the wedding. Constance will need a wedding gown as well.
Since the children have not yet been told their father and Constance have decided to get married, they sit them down in the nursery one afternoon and tell them. The children rush Constance with hugs and kisses leaving no doubt as to their feelings about the union. Amy announces this is just what Mommy wanted, Jamison backs her up for he also got the same impression. Samuel nods for if his children believe it then he does too. The children excuse themselves to go downstairs to visit with their new grandparents so Constance and Samuel can agree that from now on, they should be completely honest with each other. In everything.
Chapter 11 Becoming Lady Blackwood
Just before the wedding, the Wright family officially moves into the Manor House where Frank and Fanny are shown their new quarters and Constance will have her own room before officially moving into the Master Bedroom Suite she will share with her new husband. Constance is introduced to Orla, her own personal Lady's Maid who is very good with hair and gives Constance a bit of a "mini makeover" dressing her in a fine gown and styling her hair into something much more befitting the future wife of an Earl. Samuel compliments her new look as he holds her chair out for her at the breakfast table her first morning there.
Two days before the wedding the adults are sitting in the parlor, chatting comfortably, when the subject of where the happy couple will be going on their honeymoon is brought up. Samuel clears his throat and an awkward silence descends upon them all. You see, Samuel was thinking with all these changes, it wouldn't be right leaving the children just yet. Perhaps one day they can take a special trip, just the two of them but for now...this is a marriage of convenience. Constance is troubled, learning this. She decides not to make an issue of it and keeps quiet as the subject is changed to something else but Fanny caught the subtle warning bell too and comes in private that night to her daughter's bedroom to ask her if she's absolutely sure she wants to go through with this?
Constance is sure.
It is pouring rain the morning of the wedding and still hasn't let up when it's time to leave for the church. Luckily, Constance is completely covered by umbrellas with Orla on one side and Fanny on the other both holding up the train of her bridal gown and the long "Sound of Music" veil as she climbs into the carriage parked as close to the front doors of the Manor House as possible so not a drop of rain falls on her. Frank walks her down the aisle where a beaming Samuel is waiting for her. When he lifts her veil at the end of the ceremony for the traditional kiss, it suddenly occurs to Constance she and Samuel never shared even a single kiss together! Now, here they are, doing it in front of God and everyone-the entire village!- but sans any immediate family members from either side (I'm not kidding! Every single one of both Constance's married siblings and all four of Samuel's married sisters with all their families could not make it to this wedding of the century. In one of the past chapters, narration says all the Wrights had busy work schedules while Ch 12 will reveal the reason none of Samuel's family could make it was because Samuel never bothered to tell them! They will come for Christmas.) The after party is enjoyed by all with the children running aroundthe cultural hall Frank and Fanny basking in their glory as the parents of the bride. Samuel declares they are going upstairs to bed. He escorts his blushing bride to her bedroom door where...
THE REAL BOMB IS DROPPED!!!!
"So glad to have you officially part of the family now, my dear. Good night. Sleep well. See you at breakfast." And with that, Samuel kisses her on the forehead and turns to leave for his own bedroom just down the hall. Constance has to pick her jaw up off the floor.
Seperate rooms?!! She asks his departing back
Samuel's brow furrows as he turns to look at her "Didn't you know I was gay?" What part of "marriage of convenience" did you not understand? There will be no wedding night for either of them and that's the way it will always be.
Still wearing her wedding gown, not that she can remove it, Constance spends a long, miserable night sobbing into her pillow until the reader would like to reach into the book and strangle Samuel. Or maybe Constance for not having that all important discussion with him from the very start about having children together.
Chapter 12 Settled and Resigned
And that's how Orla finds her new mistress, Lady Blackwell obviously did NOT get any sleep last night but not for the reasons a new bride should have but no matter, Constance was already done with her crying anyway when Orla came knocking and nearly dropped the breakfast tray. This is to be a platonic marriage. The children still need her and she and Samuel can still be friends. Orla raises an eyebrow at the martyr she is to serve for the rest of her professional career but helps Constance freshen up and change into something more suitable to a Lady of the Manor.
Samuel is pathetic and awkward as he and Constance meet in the hallway. He apologizes again but Constance brushes him off, all business. They took their vows, she is a woman of her word, she is resigned to her fate-a marriage of convenience.
Feeling like the biggest jerk in the world (as he should!) Samuel follows her into the drawing room. Both secretly hope none of the servants ever find out Lord and Lady of Grey Manor are not getting it on in the bedroom (which makes this reader laugh-of course the servants already know!).
Over the next few days, Constance dutifully says her prayers and counts her blessings whenever she feels any self-pity, which is every single night! Autumn arrives and more weeks pass as Samuel and Constance settle into a comfortable routine: spending time with the children, having civilized conversations at the dinner table together and putting on their most pleasant faces whenever they go out in public together, such as church. The children suspect NOTHING.
Frank and Fanny know. Constance told them the very next day after her wedding that she had come to know for herself what Samuel's "marriage of convenience" truly meant and thus explain and prevent any future awkward conversations about grandchildren. She was a fool, she admits it, but will be happily resigned to her fate even if it kills her and exits before her parents can start gushing any condescending pity. The subject is never brought up again and Constance runs to her room where she can cry all over again in private.
Christmas is here and so are all four of Samuel's sisters but, Constance had NO IDEA one was blind! Constance weeps unabashed tears as Athena (his mom was a Greek myth fanatic and so named all his sisters after Gods) carefully feels her face so she can get a better idea of what her new sister-in-law looks like. Constance is pronounced "lovely" and nobody says anything about her birthmark. Like his engagement, Samuel never said anything to his sisters in his letters about Constance's appearance and they are all too well bred to mention it out loud upon introductions which Constance appreciates. She can tell they are all going to get along just fine during this visit.
Chapter 13 Blind
Hand on her husband's arm (keeping up appearances, you know!) Constance and Samuel are walking to their respective rooms when Constance asks why he never told her about the blind sister? Samuel replies the same reason he never told them about that hideous mark on her face that he knows she detests. It's whats inside that counts, everybody knows that, the Blackwoods were all raised on it.
Next morning at the breakfast table, Constance finds herself laughing more than she's ever laughed in her life. These sisters are wonderful! So gracious and kind. Fanny fits right in as well. The cousins are having a ball in the nursery together, the husbands know their place and with servants to take care of everything, the women are free to go into town for their traditional shopping trip and lunch at a respectable tea shop. They take two carriages and Constance loves every minute of it. She's never been part of the "in-crowd" before. All are eager to hear the story of how she and Samuel met and fell in love. They NEVER thought their Mr. Darcy brother would EVER find anyone to replace Amelia and it's evident they both love each other very much.
Constance tells them the story, leaving out any romantic parts, namely because well, frankly there's nothing much to tell, is there? She fell in love with the children right off, of course and has dedicated the rest of her life to following the fine example Amelia left for her in being a good mother to her new step-children...but not a wife to Samuel (he rejected her). A very awkward silence descends on the lunch table at the tea shop. Like the conversation back in Ch. 11 the subject is changed and Constance hopes it won't come up again. These woman all have such perfect marriages of their own how could they ever understand the glaring problem SHE is having in hers?
All the adults are lounging in the drawing room after dinner when Samuel asks Athena to share her own terrible, awful, no good, very bad Sunday SHE had many many years ago in church. (wouldn't it be the same church the Wrights attended too? Narration never says-fail Anita!) Almost exactly what Constance experienced from the same kind of vicar who preached a sermon about the man born blind. To heck with what Jesus said, the blind man AND his parents were to blame for his condition (Handicapped people are EVIL, I tell you!) and everybody who thinks otherwise is going to hell. And so, because of this, it took Athena many years before she could ever step foot in a church again.
Constance, Frank, and Fanny gasp (for they must have missed that sermon.) They explain to Athena how they can relate to her story. You see, Constance was born with a horrible, hideous birthmark on her face which made her a vicar's target too but, like the Blackwoods, having a family who loves you means more than anything a silly vicar could say. Constance will be eternally grateful for Athena's courage in sharing her story.
Everyone tromps outside the next day for a raucous snowball fight-men, women and children. Constance has a good arm and Samuel gets it right in the face. Laughing merrily, Constance helps wipe it off and for a few seconds the moment turns tender. He wants to kiss her but they are interrupted by others.
Athena may be blind, but there are some things she can see. The day before Christmas Eve Samuel is sitting in his office going over his ledgers when a knock at the door reveals Athena, come to speak with him, alone. She is handed off by the servant to Samuel who guides his favorite sister to a chair where she proceeds to give him the lecture of his life! He is a fool for letting his feelings for Amelia get in the way of being a true husband to a woman who is obviously starving for his love and affection. Constance deserves a lover not a friend. A person would have to be blind not to see it. Amelia would never allow such unkind behavior and she most certainly would approve of this marriage. His other sisters agree and that's why she's here so if he doesn't "man up" and do his duty as a husband to a wife-he's getting nothin' for Christmas!
Samuel is very uncomfortable over the next 24 hours and hardly sleeps that night. The feeling stays with him for days afterward (because he's an idiot) as Christmas celebrations are concluded, the relatives leave and his comfortable relationship with Constance continues. It is not until after he visits his wife's grave and comes away knowing what he must do that Samuel Blackwood finds the courage to declare to Constance outside her bedroom door that he's now ready to consummate their marriage.
About freakin' time.
THE END
Back at the farmhouse/cottage, Constance already had her solitary cry of self-pity and, with red eyes, is intent on doing her needlework when her parents come home and drop the bomb...
Chapter 5 Seeing Constance
So, despite already having a very capable nanny and governess in his employ, Constance is astounded the Earl is going out of his way to meet and consider HER as a suitable mother for his two children. Her parents answer, yes, this is exactly why the Earl accepted their invitation to this blind date. Bouncing between hope and despair, Constance suffers qualms over the next few days, stays home that Sunday, as usual while her parents attend services-as usual. A new vicar was called years ago who did stop by one day to invite Constance back to the fold, but the damage was done. Her parents report the Earl was there, as usual, and this time he went out of his way to talk to them! Constance almost faints from nerves. One look at her evil mark and he's going to bolt, she just knows it!
At one minute to seven, a knock at the door and the Earl is graciously welcomed into their humble home. With no reaction to the mark on her face, he kisses Constance's hand and she blushes. He IS a handsome guy with deep set blue eyes who insists they call him Samuel. When he asks Constance what she enjoys doing in her spare time she replies she likes to read and do needlework.
POV then switches to Samuel who also battled nerves for the last few days and now feels silly, breaking bread in this charming, cozy little hovel. Sure, Constance has a dark red impossible-to-miss birthmark on her face but her other features are perfectly fine. She is quiet but every comment she's made so far has been full of wit and intelligence and grace. The attraction is there and the food (leg of lamb) is delicious.
After the meal, Samuel comments he noticed a bit of wilderness just on the other side of the house and wonders if Constance might take a turn with him in it. Constance agrees and her parents are only too happy to push them outside where they can sit in private on the stone bench and get to know each other better. Constance informs him she is already aware of his REAL intentions for coming over today and she has no problem with it. While they hardly know each other both feel good about this prospective friendship. Samuel proposes they go on a few dates and see what happens. Constance agress. Oh and by the way, Samuel informs her, he DID notice the mark on her face but assures her it will ever be an issue between them. He's not that kind of man. His children also are very well bred and have been taught since infancy to accept ALL people with love and acceptance just the way they are. He truly hopes they can all become friends. Constance looks away shyly and agrees to a second date, tomorrow-teatime, so she can meet his children. IF they were to marry, Samuel hints, she needs to understand now this would NOT be a conventional marriage but one of convenience. He was already married once and he could never replace his beloved Amelia. Constance understands. His dead wife will always come first. She decides she could live with that. But she'll wait until tomorrow after she meets his children...
Chapter 6 Master and Mistress of Grey Manor
Of course Frank and Fanny are included in the invitation for tea tomorrow as well so they can also meet the children. Constance reflects more on this new relationship she in embarking on to her parents. If it DID lead to marriage, repeating to them what Samuel told her yesterday, it would NOT be a conventional one. But he would make her happy and her parents agree that is all that really matters anyway when choosing a spouse.
They drive their own trap up to the big house where servants take over caring for the horses while ushering the guests inside to an upstairs drawing room. They oo and ah over the luxurious "Parade of Homes" mansion. Samuel enters and compliments the ladies on their appearance, greets Frank warmly and, as if waiting for a silent signal, tea is brought in by the servants. Conversation is very pleasant but Constance is too nervous to enjoy anything in her apprehension in the upcoming meeting in the nursery with the children who will probably make rude, insensitive comments about her face.
This turns out to be utter nonsense of course. The TRUE "master and mistress of Grey Manor" hug and kiss Constance before inviting her to play with dolls and blocks and other toys. Samuel watches and both share a look of relief with each other.
Chapter 7 Angel Kiss
As their mother taught them (Mr. Rogers-style!) EVERYONE is special, those with birthmarks especially for Mommy always said they were "angel kisses" and Constance must be extra special to have gotten such a big one from an angel! Tears stream down Constance's face as the children, very politely, ask if they may kiss and even touch her special mark? They touch it almost reverently before the mood changes and they all get back to playing their game. Samuel joins in too.
The children can't wait to be introduced to their "surrogate grandparents" who are still downstairs waiting to meet them. Naturally everyone, the entire staff, are so friendly and helpful and completely nonjudgmental of Constance's atrocious birthmark as she is shown a spare room where she can freshen up a bit before dinner.
When Samuel asks, Constance happily admits to enjoying her visit, thus far, very much. Samuel agrees-he IS very blessed-as they enter the dining room where the four adults (AGAIN) enjoy more pleasant conversation and delicious food. They move to the parlor where the children are brought in by the servants to meet Frank and Fanny and coffee is served for the adults. With evening chores waiting back on the pig farm, the Wright family takes their leave gushing over this incredible "Downtown Abbey" experience they just had all during the drive home. Constance again speaks her mind aloud to her very married parents: possible marriage to the Earl would mean a very drastic lifestyle change for both herself and her parents. It is obvious the children's needs would always come first in this marriage but what's that compared to the dull, dreary, miserable life of a lonely old maid still living with her parents. Constance muses to herself she's already fallen in love with those two adorable children. Does it really matter if she'll never have the heart of her husband?
Quick! Somebody give Constance Eleanore's phone number from "Barrington Family Saga!"
Chapter 8 Amelia's Wish
That night, Constance has her first dream of Amelia but it's very vague-an impression really, a presence, that this dead woman approves of her. She awakens, troubled. What does it mean? Should she pursue a relationship with this man? A note from the Manor House later that day answers the question. An invitation from the children (composed with the help of a servant) for Constance to come on a picnic to be held in the gardens with themselves and father. Constance is requested to send her reply with the servant and they truly hope she can make it. Very properly signed "Jamison and Amy Blackwood of Grey Manor." Constance is pleased to learn her (boyfriend/fiancee's???) surname and laughs reading it aloud to her equally delighted parents. Of COURSE she will be accepting the invite.
This outing, like all previous "dates" thus far is just as perfect. The children run around the formal gardens of Grey Manor so Constance and Samuel can set up the picnic and chat and get to know each other better. Turns out they are picnicking near the very same angel statue where Constance stops with a small gasp. Her dream! It's a sign! She keeps this to herself as the children come running to start the meal. They again scamper off to play tag with each other and the two adults agree this friendship could very naturally escalate into courtship. If so, Constance will be meeting his family, namely all his sisters for he is the only son. Constance can't wait. Samuel thanks her for spending the day with them but the pleasure was all HERS, of course! Samuel walks her out to the carriage that came to pick her up that morning and will now return her to her parent's home. He would like to see her again. Tomorrow, if possible. Constance takes the liberty of inviting HIM over for tea and supper. The children will stay home this time. And so, it's all settled.
Chapter 9 A Convenient Arrangement
For Samuel, his mind is made up. He will court this good woman with the intention of marrying her. He'll ask her parents' permission, of course when he goes for tea tomorrow. Again the phrase "marriage of convenience" is used in the narrative for he intends to provide for both Constance and her parent's every need. Constance will never want for anything. She'll have a good life and be a good mother to his children and together they will enrich each other's lives. A million single girls would kill for such an opportunity.
Constance wakes up and gets ready for the day. She helps her mother prepare a mutton stew, fresh baked bread and a cake to serve their guest. Then the usual household chores are tackled until it is time to freshen up and get ready. By this point, Constance has worn all three of her good dresses but she figures Samuel doesn't appear to be the type of man who really cares about such things anyway! Samuel arrives, the meal is eaten, everything is hunky-dory. Again Samuel initiates another private conversation with Constance outside on the stone bench this time to propose a formal courtship. He admits he is astonished just how quickly they became best friends in so short a time. The children are crazy about her and, Samuel takes a quick breath, while he will always love Amelia and she will always be first in his heart, he IS open to the idea of marriage to another woman. He wants Constance to take this time as well, to decide if this is also what SHE wants-a marriage of convenience-a life that would be very different from life on a farm. Constance takes several paragraphs to ponder this: living in a fabulous mansion with servants waiting on her hand and foot, a new wardrobe, never going hungry again and enough money so her entire family could live very comfortably for the rest of their lives BUT...she would never have his heart.
Oh, what the heck, SHE'LL DO IT!!!
Samuel again assures her no one will dare say anything to her about that hideous birthmark on her face for he is THE EARL and he intends to be seen with her everywhere they go. This includes church. Constance hesitates. Go back THERE? To church? Taking a deep breath she decides as long as she has a man at her side, she can do anything! Then it's decided.
Samuel and Constance return to the farmhouse to share the good news with Frank and Fanny who give their blessing on the courtship. Samuel adds IF they were to marry he would like to officially announce his intention of having Frank and Fanny move into the Manor house so he could care for them properly. They would have their own quarters and servants to wait on them. He'll find someone else to raise the pigs and they'll never have to work again. All agree, this is truly an act of Providence!
Chapter 10 A New Family
Unbelievable! Constance can hardly fall asleep that night, her mind is whirling so fast at all these new developments for both herself and her family. The next day, Samuel returns with the children and everyone has a wonderful time. While the children play in another room with some old toys that belonged to Constance, Samuel takes this opportunity to probe a little more as to the specific reasons why Constance is such a hermit and why she has no friends? The story of that terrible, awful, no good very bad Sunday is repeated. Samuel gasps in all the right places. That evil vicar, how DARE he? Thank goodness he had the good sense to resign and move away else Samuel would've dismissed him, and the bullying she endured from the village. Unfortunate incidents all, but at least they can put it behind them now.
Church is fine. There's a few outright stares of curiosity for how could anyone miss the fact that Earl is dating a woman who is WAY below him on the social ladder and that the most eligible bachelor in town is now off the market. NOBODY says anything! The new vicar preaches his usual sermon, Constance finds she able to relax and enjoy the service and hymn singing. Narration says a few people speak politely to both Constance and Samuel, they get back in the carriage and...that's it!
Summer flies by. Constance is now a regular church attendee. Samuel and Constance divide their time between pig farm and Manor House: playing with the children, strolling the formal gardens, enjoying meals at the cottage until one day Constance realizes she has fallen in love with this good man. Narration says Samuel officially proposes marriage and Constance accepts. The wedding will be a very quiet and simple affair. Samuel has no problem with that and graciously offers his entire staff to assist Constance and her mother with everything they might need to plan the crazy rich Asian wedding of the century-if only these women were more worldly! Constance walks Samuel out to the barn where he parked his horse, he kisses her hand and rides off into the sunset while Constance marvels at how her life has changed. She absolutely KNOWS marrying this man is the right thing to do.
Next day, a dressmaker arrives at the pig farm, sent by Samuel, for all three are to have new wardrobes in preparation for their new lives as residents of Grey Manor after the wedding. Constance will need a wedding gown as well.
Since the children have not yet been told their father and Constance have decided to get married, they sit them down in the nursery one afternoon and tell them. The children rush Constance with hugs and kisses leaving no doubt as to their feelings about the union. Amy announces this is just what Mommy wanted, Jamison backs her up for he also got the same impression. Samuel nods for if his children believe it then he does too. The children excuse themselves to go downstairs to visit with their new grandparents so Constance and Samuel can agree that from now on, they should be completely honest with each other. In everything.
Chapter 11 Becoming Lady Blackwood
Just before the wedding, the Wright family officially moves into the Manor House where Frank and Fanny are shown their new quarters and Constance will have her own room before officially moving into the Master Bedroom Suite she will share with her new husband. Constance is introduced to Orla, her own personal Lady's Maid who is very good with hair and gives Constance a bit of a "mini makeover" dressing her in a fine gown and styling her hair into something much more befitting the future wife of an Earl. Samuel compliments her new look as he holds her chair out for her at the breakfast table her first morning there.
Two days before the wedding the adults are sitting in the parlor, chatting comfortably, when the subject of where the happy couple will be going on their honeymoon is brought up. Samuel clears his throat and an awkward silence descends upon them all. You see, Samuel was thinking with all these changes, it wouldn't be right leaving the children just yet. Perhaps one day they can take a special trip, just the two of them but for now...this is a marriage of convenience. Constance is troubled, learning this. She decides not to make an issue of it and keeps quiet as the subject is changed to something else but Fanny caught the subtle warning bell too and comes in private that night to her daughter's bedroom to ask her if she's absolutely sure she wants to go through with this?
Constance is sure.
It is pouring rain the morning of the wedding and still hasn't let up when it's time to leave for the church. Luckily, Constance is completely covered by umbrellas with Orla on one side and Fanny on the other both holding up the train of her bridal gown and the long "Sound of Music" veil as she climbs into the carriage parked as close to the front doors of the Manor House as possible so not a drop of rain falls on her. Frank walks her down the aisle where a beaming Samuel is waiting for her. When he lifts her veil at the end of the ceremony for the traditional kiss, it suddenly occurs to Constance she and Samuel never shared even a single kiss together! Now, here they are, doing it in front of God and everyone-the entire village!- but sans any immediate family members from either side (I'm not kidding! Every single one of both Constance's married siblings and all four of Samuel's married sisters with all their families could not make it to this wedding of the century. In one of the past chapters, narration says all the Wrights had busy work schedules while Ch 12 will reveal the reason none of Samuel's family could make it was because Samuel never bothered to tell them! They will come for Christmas.) The after party is enjoyed by all with the children running around
THE REAL BOMB IS DROPPED!!!!
"So glad to have you officially part of the family now, my dear. Good night. Sleep well. See you at breakfast." And with that, Samuel kisses her on the forehead and turns to leave for his own bedroom just down the hall. Constance has to pick her jaw up off the floor.
Seperate rooms?!! She asks his departing back
Samuel's brow furrows as he turns to look at her "
Still wearing her wedding gown, not that she can remove it, Constance spends a long, miserable night sobbing into her pillow until the reader would like to reach into the book and strangle Samuel. Or maybe Constance for not having that all important discussion with him from the very start about having children together.
Chapter 12 Settled and Resigned
And that's how Orla finds her new mistress, Lady Blackwell obviously did NOT get any sleep last night but not for the reasons a new bride should have but no matter, Constance was already done with her crying anyway when Orla came knocking and nearly dropped the breakfast tray. This is to be a platonic marriage. The children still need her and she and Samuel can still be friends. Orla raises an eyebrow at the martyr she is to serve for the rest of her professional career but helps Constance freshen up and change into something more suitable to a Lady of the Manor.
Samuel is pathetic and awkward as he and Constance meet in the hallway. He apologizes again but Constance brushes him off, all business. They took their vows, she is a woman of her word, she is resigned to her fate-a marriage of convenience.
Feeling like the biggest jerk in the world (as he should!) Samuel follows her into the drawing room. Both secretly hope none of the servants ever find out Lord and Lady of Grey Manor are not getting it on in the bedroom (which makes this reader laugh-of course the servants already know!).
Over the next few days, Constance dutifully says her prayers and counts her blessings whenever she feels any self-pity, which is every single night! Autumn arrives and more weeks pass as Samuel and Constance settle into a comfortable routine: spending time with the children, having civilized conversations at the dinner table together and putting on their most pleasant faces whenever they go out in public together, such as church. The children suspect NOTHING.
Frank and Fanny know. Constance told them the very next day after her wedding that she had come to know for herself what Samuel's "marriage of convenience" truly meant and thus explain and prevent any future awkward conversations about grandchildren. She was a fool, she admits it, but will be happily resigned to her fate even if it kills her and exits before her parents can start gushing any condescending pity. The subject is never brought up again and Constance runs to her room where she can cry all over again in private.
Christmas is here and so are all four of Samuel's sisters but, Constance had NO IDEA one was blind! Constance weeps unabashed tears as Athena (his mom was a Greek myth fanatic and so named all his sisters after Gods) carefully feels her face so she can get a better idea of what her new sister-in-law looks like. Constance is pronounced "lovely" and nobody says anything about her birthmark. Like his engagement, Samuel never said anything to his sisters in his letters about Constance's appearance and they are all too well bred to mention it out loud upon introductions which Constance appreciates. She can tell they are all going to get along just fine during this visit.
Chapter 13 Blind
Hand on her husband's arm (keeping up appearances, you know!) Constance and Samuel are walking to their respective rooms when Constance asks why he never told her about the blind sister? Samuel replies the same reason he never told them about that hideous mark on her face that he knows she detests. It's whats inside that counts, everybody knows that, the Blackwoods were all raised on it.
Next morning at the breakfast table, Constance finds herself laughing more than she's ever laughed in her life. These sisters are wonderful! So gracious and kind. Fanny fits right in as well. The cousins are having a ball in the nursery together, the husbands know their place and with servants to take care of everything, the women are free to go into town for their traditional shopping trip and lunch at a respectable tea shop. They take two carriages and Constance loves every minute of it. She's never been part of the "in-crowd" before. All are eager to hear the story of how she and Samuel met and fell in love. They NEVER thought their Mr. Darcy brother would EVER find anyone to replace Amelia and it's evident they both love each other very much.
Constance tells them the story, leaving out any romantic parts, namely because well, frankly there's nothing much to tell, is there? She fell in love with the children right off, of course and has dedicated the rest of her life to following the fine example Amelia left for her in being a good mother to her new step-children...but not a wife to Samuel (he rejected her). A very awkward silence descends on the lunch table at the tea shop. Like the conversation back in Ch. 11 the subject is changed and Constance hopes it won't come up again. These woman all have such perfect marriages of their own how could they ever understand the glaring problem SHE is having in hers?
All the adults are lounging in the drawing room after dinner when Samuel asks Athena to share her own terrible, awful, no good, very bad Sunday SHE had many many years ago in church. (wouldn't it be the same church the Wrights attended too? Narration never says-fail Anita!) Almost exactly what Constance experienced from the same kind of vicar who preached a sermon about the man born blind. To heck with what Jesus said, the blind man AND his parents were to blame for his condition (Handicapped people are EVIL, I tell you!) and everybody who thinks otherwise is going to hell. And so, because of this, it took Athena many years before she could ever step foot in a church again.
Constance, Frank, and Fanny gasp (for they must have missed that sermon.) They explain to Athena how they can relate to her story. You see, Constance was born with a horrible, hideous birthmark on her face which made her a vicar's target too but, like the Blackwoods, having a family who loves you means more than anything a silly vicar could say. Constance will be eternally grateful for Athena's courage in sharing her story.
Everyone tromps outside the next day for a raucous snowball fight-men, women and children. Constance has a good arm and Samuel gets it right in the face. Laughing merrily, Constance helps wipe it off and for a few seconds the moment turns tender. He wants to kiss her but they are interrupted by others.
Athena may be blind, but there are some things she can see. The day before Christmas Eve Samuel is sitting in his office going over his ledgers when a knock at the door reveals Athena, come to speak with him, alone. She is handed off by the servant to Samuel who guides his favorite sister to a chair where she proceeds to give him the lecture of his life! He is a fool for letting his feelings for Amelia get in the way of being a true husband to a woman who is obviously starving for his love and affection. Constance deserves a lover not a friend. A person would have to be blind not to see it. Amelia would never allow such unkind behavior and she most certainly would approve of this marriage. His other sisters agree and that's why she's here so if he doesn't "man up" and do his duty as a husband to a wife-he's getting nothin' for Christmas!
Samuel is very uncomfortable over the next 24 hours and hardly sleeps that night. The feeling stays with him for days afterward (because he's an idiot) as Christmas celebrations are concluded, the relatives leave and his comfortable relationship with Constance continues. It is not until after he visits his wife's grave and comes away knowing what he must do that Samuel Blackwood finds the courage to declare to Constance outside her bedroom door that he's now ready to consummate their marriage.
About freakin' time.
THE END
