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Torn
Mar 5, 2011 0:02:58 GMT -5
Post by fallingn2ct on Mar 5, 2011 0:02:58 GMT -5
October 20,1860
My Dearest Love, I have arrived in Boston! It is a city unlike any other that I have seen. Everything is bustling and busy. They are building ships here. People from Ireland even have their own area of the city. Not the best of accomodations, but one cannot be picky. I have a roof over head, clothes on me back, and food in my belly. I am staying with my friend George. He is a wonderful man from Scotland. We met during travels sometime ago. The music and good times we all have make up for the lack of what we miss. What I miss is you, I have told George about you and he tells me that he will accomodate you when when we are ready.
Tomorrow we are both going to enlist with the army. There is so much talk of the war and of the antislavery movements. I cannot express my excitement to be a part of something as grand as this. Helping people to start new lives and to abolish the stupid laws that exist. I know I should not speak like this in a letter, but I do owe it to you to be honest.
I am turning in for the day now. I am working in the shipyard until the army drills start, which will be soon. I am tired and my body aches to the bone, but then I look at your photo and I remember why I am doing any of this. I am staring at the night sky and thinking of you, the moon is little more than a sliver right now. Nothing like the night when I first met you. It was so full and bright. Having you on my arm made me proud that night, even if no one else saw.
Good night and sleep well my Angel, we will be together soon.
Yours Eternally, Ryan
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Mar 7, 2011 10:57:26 GMT -5
Post by fallingn2ct on Mar 7, 2011 10:57:26 GMT -5
"Abigail, where are you off to?", Madeline asked her daughter.
"No where momma," Abbie said stopping close to the front door,"I was just going to take a walk."
"The post master seems to be stopping here a great deal," she attempted to make light of her inquiry,"Letters most certainly are not for your father or myself."
Abbie swallowed hard,"People are sending in the correspondance for the wedding. I have been giving them to Mel."
"Do either one of you think myself and your Aunt Briana should be included?"
"I will let Melinda know that you asked to see them," she nodded.
"Very well then, enjoy your walk. Be back in time for your penmanship hour."
"Yes ma'am," she gave a curtsy and hurried out the door. The post master had only delivered two letters to her. But her mother had noticed. If her mother had noticed, did that mean that others did as well? She walked slowly down the pathway to the orchards. The day was cool and cloudy, Melinda was with Paul and thus Abbie was left alone. Alone with her thoughts and alone with her knawing fears for Ryan. He was enlisting soon and would be partaking in the drills and preparing for war. She should be there with him, she should be willing to take the risk and go to Boston. Nothing seemed to matter without him there. She sat beneath a tree pulling out the paper and writing utensil.
October 27, 1860
My Darling Ryan, I am so thankful that you made it safely to Boston. I worried everyday that something would happen to you. The city sounds much different that Charleston. Papa doesn't allow me to go into town very often, only if he and momma go. There is more talk every day of the Union army gathering more troops and making their way to the south. When they say that it makes me wonder if possibly, your batallion may come here. Not that you would know at this point.
George sounds like a great friend. Please tell him that I say hello and extend my gratitude to him. For seeing to it that you have a safe and warm place to stay. How are you feeling my love? You must becareful when you work, take care of yourself. Try using a hot compress to help your muscles relax. I truly wish I could be there to care for you.
I was proud to be on your arm that first night. All of our time together made me happy, proud, and most of all loved. I cherish the thought of being in your arms again and that keeps me going through the day. I must confess that I think of our life together, of a family, a home of our own. Day dreaming during my studies. Studying geography can be very dull at times.
I have penmanship studies that I must be off too. Keep well my love and I look forward to your next letter.
Your Angel, Abigail
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Mar 22, 2011 10:38:14 GMT -5
Post by fallingn2ct on Mar 22, 2011 10:38:14 GMT -5
November 15, 1860
My Love, We have begun drills with the army. Between the shipyard and drills there is hardly a free moment in the day. The weather has grown much colder, some say snow is possible by Thanksgiving. George and I are sure to keep wood and coal to keep warm. Night time seems to be hardest, but we make due.
I do not know when we will actually march or when any battles may ensue, but we will be prepared. I pray that my duties will bring me South and that I will see your face before long. I am taking as good care as I can, I tried the hot compresses you suggested and they did work very well. Helped to relax a bit, but having you here would make it even better. I have had a bit of a cold for a few days now, but I should be well before long. Do not fret love as I know you will.
I confess that I share your dreams of a home & family. That is why I am doing any of this. For the day when I may make you my wife and that we will start a family of our own. I see families while I am out & it makes me long to have you by my side. You must be careful when doing your studies, I should not occupy you rmind that much. How ever you do occupy mine as equally as often. You are so smart Abigail and I appreciate that about you. I miss you more and more with each passing day.
Farewell for now my love and until your next letter.
All my heart, Ryan
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Mar 22, 2011 19:43:32 GMT -5
Post by fallingn2ct on Mar 22, 2011 19:43:32 GMT -5
Abigail folded the letter and tucked into the book in which she practiced her penmanship. She brushed a tear away from her eye as Melinda entered the room.
"Abigail, you need to come along to Aunt Briana's. My wedding dress has arrived."
"Mel, we need to talk," she began,"Momma has asked about the post master coming by so often."
"What did you say?"
"That they were correspondence for the wedding. She said that she and Aunt Briana need to know about any responses for the wedding."
"No worries, you did well. We will go into town and speak with the post master. Let him know that every few days we will check for letters."
"You know momma and papa won't let us go into town", she said quickly,"This is all I have from Ryan, I have to be able to get them."
"We'll figure it out dear, I promise you that," she hugged her,"Let us be off to Aunt Briana's house."
"Oh, Melinda it is beautiful!", Madeline fussed over her daughter's dress. The creamy satin hugged her and fell perfectly to lay on the floor in cascades of material.
"Thank you momma", Melinda felt herself blush as she looked in the large mirror that had been set up.
"That Paul of yours is going to just die when he sees you,"Briana echoed beaming at her niece.
Abbie had silently made her way out of the room and now sat in the kitchen sipping on a cup of tea.
"Hello Abigail," came a voice from behind her.
"Damian!", she said excitedly,"How are you?"
"I am well, thank you," he bowed his head.
"No need for that young man", she hugged him,"Please join me."
Damian quickly looked around,"For a moment madam," he sat across from her,"Do you hear from Ryan?"
"Yes," she smiled,"Letters regularly, he is living with a Scotsman named George, a very good friend to him. He has a cold right now, and the army is drilling a lot. He works in the shipyard and," she stopped as she felt the tears again,"I worry for him Damian, I worry so much."
"You wish to be with him?", he produced a hankerchief.
"More than I ever thought possible," she sniffed dabbing carefully at her eyes,"It just seems impossible as if it will never be."
"If you wish to go, please let me help you."
"What do you mean?"
"I can help you with passage to Boston, I have family along the road to there."
"I couldn't ask that of you," she shook her head.
"I am offering Ms. Abigail," he smiled,"I do not wish to serve people for the rest of my life. Simply say the word and I will be at your leave."
"Damian," she said hugging him,"If I can make the plans to go to Boston, I will. I'm not sure how much longer I can take being apart from him."
"I'm sure he feels the same," he smiled,"I must get back to my chores,"Please come and we can talk."
"I will Damian and thank you", she smiled and watched as he left the room. It was as if her prayers had been answered. She could be with Ryan on her own terms without her family's knowledge or their approval and nothing made her happier.
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May 17, 2011 12:26:37 GMT -5
Post by fallingn2ct on May 17, 2011 12:26:37 GMT -5
sorry for the absense on the stories. Have had to deal with several personal tragedies over the last few months & I am trying to get myself back into my stories and out of the funk that I have been in. Bare with me, you all are amazing!
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Aug 8, 2011 14:15:41 GMT -5
Post by fallingn2ct on Aug 8, 2011 14:15:41 GMT -5
Abbie waited until her parents along with her aunt and uncle were settled in the parlor afte supper,"Mel", she said finding her sister in the guest suite still gazing at the wedding dress.
"Abbie, isn't it just stunning!", she gushed happily.
"It is beautiful", she agreed,"Mel, I have something important I need to speak with you about."
"What is it dear?", she looked at her sister with worry.
Abbie squared her shoulders and took a deep breath,"I am planning to go to Boston."
"Abigail, have you completely lost your senses?"
"Please hear me out", she pleaded,"I have thought about it a lot. I don't have to go permanently yet, but before the insanity of this war takes over, I need to go. I have to see him."
"How do you propose you get to Boston?"
"Damian, Aunt Briana's young house servant said he has family that will help. I know that somehow we can come up with something."
"What is this we you speak of? I am getting married, I do not have time to help you with reidiculous plots of running away to the north."
Abbie felt the stab of anguish pierce her momentarily,"Mel, you said you would help me. That you would be there for me and help both Ryan and myself."
"Abbie, what you are asking is madness. The holidays are approaching, the weather is cold enough here let alone up there. Momma and papa would never agree to such a thing."
"What about Paul? Doesn't he have cousins up that way?"
Melinda cocked her head in thought,"I do believe that he does."
"Can we ask him then? Do you think he would agree to help with passage?"
"He most likely will, but it is not proper for either of us to go with him. We are not yet married."
"Forget being prim and proper for once in your life! You have Paul here! You are going to be married, I don't have that", she felt her tears stinging yet again,"No one but you knows that I am even in love. Our family will never approve of him, I need this Mel", she swiped at the few tears that had escaped,"Please, I need to see him."
Melinda studied her younger sister, always the rebel. Always the one with her head in the clouds instead of being practical. Hating dresses until she was old enough to know better. Always giving her any small gifts form would be suitors. Never finding a man that was of any substance or that could keep up with the independent and quick witted nature. She sighed,"Very well Abigail. I will speak with Paul tomorrow."
"You are the best sister in the world," Abbie threw her arms around her sister.
"Write to Ryan this evening and be sure it gets off tomorrow. We may be able to leave within a few days."
"Mel, I can never offer you enough thanks."
"You will just owe me a lifetime of servitude", she smiled and kissed her baby sister on the cheek.
"I can handle that", she laughed.
They did not arrive home until late in the evening. The large house was dark and quiet, save for the grandfather clock in the foyer ticking loudly. Abigail descended the stairs, paper and pencil in hand. She made her way to the kitchen, a candle lighting her way. Sitting at the small table near the low burning fire she began a letter to Ryan:
My Love, I pray that you are keeping well. You said that you have had a bit of a cold. You cannot let yourself get run down. You need your strength for the army and for me. I know that you don't have many free moments, but the ones you do have, please remember to sleep and to eat. I pray for you and for George each night before bed. That you are both warm and safe.
Please do not be angry with me, but I am working with Damian, Melinda, and Paul to make a journey to Boston. Not to stay for good mind you. I know right not that would impossible and too much of a burden on you. But I simply cannot go without seeing you. Every day is more diffcult than the one before. Melinda is going to be speaking with Paul to arrange a trip to see his cousins, they live not far from Boston. When I know more, I shall write to you.
I treausre each letter that I have form you and I read them often. At times it's like I can hear your voice reading it to me. I know we will be married one day my love and on that day all my dreams will come true. Keep well my darling.
Faithfully and always yours, Abigial
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Aug 9, 2011 10:13:52 GMT -5
Post by fallingn2ct on Aug 9, 2011 10:13:52 GMT -5
"You're asking me to speak to your father about a trip to Boston?", Paul questioned raising an eyebrow at Abbie.
"I wouldn't ask such a thing Paul, but I have reasons. Reasons I'm sure Melinda has told you", she eyed her sister.
"Ah yes, the lad that you know your parenst will never allow."
"Paul, sweetheart," Melinda cooed,"This is something that is very important to Abbie and I made her a promise that I would help as best I could."
"You failed to mention such a promise to me, my love", he said patting her hand.
"Please Paul", Abbie said clutching at the locket around her neck,"You know what it is to love someone, but what you do not know is the pain of not having that someone. To wait every day for a letter, for some small token to know that they are alive and well."
"Abigail", he smiled gently,"I do know what it is to be in love, but what you are asking, in the times we are in, is very dangerous. My family in the north is very close to leaving and coming south. It's not that easy for us, you, your sister, and myself come from well known families. A trip to the north now could spell disaster for all three of us."
"There is no war yet Paul Byrom", Abbie said angrily,"Until the day that changes, we are free to come and go as we please."
"According to you", Melinda said to her sister,"Paul is right on all counts Abbie. It could be dangerous."
"Mel, you know I will do this on my own if need be", she stood up to leave.
"Abbie, don't go", Paul sighed rubbing his temples,"I will see what I can do. As much as this is against any better judgement that I have, I will try."
"Thank you Paul!", Abbie nearly threw herself into his arms,"This means more than I can tell you."
"What kind of brother in law would I be if I didn't help the little sister in love?"
"A terrible one", Melinda laughed.
"Now I suppose that I have talking with both our families to take care of."
"Abbie and I will wait in the foyer while you speak with Papa."
"I will wait until after supper and then speak with him over cigars and brandy."
"You men and your cigars", Melinda kissed his cheek as she and Abbie left the small study,"Happy now?"
"Beyond words", Abbie grinned,"Do you think Papa will let him take us?"
"He is fond of the Byroms, but with Paul and I not yet being married, he may not agree."
"He has to Mel, he just has too!"
"Abigail, keep your voice down", she hushed her sister,"We need to get ready for supper."
Abbie barely ate as she listened to the conversations between her parents as well as Melinda and Paul. It was as if she were hearing them through a wad of cotton, her mind was preoccupied with the conversation she knew was coming after their meal was over. Would her father agree? Would he demand that he or Paul's father accompany them? If her father did accompany them, there would be a new difficulty in her path to being able to see Ryan. Just thinking of Ryan brought his face to the forefront of her mind. The face that she had not seen in months, the icey eyes, the strong arms that held her. His hands rough from his work, but gentle with her. She could almost picture their reunion, running into his arms, being swept off her feet. Their lips finally reconnecting after so long apart. She could feel the heat that spread into her face as she thought of his mouth on hers.
"Abigail, are you okay my dear?", Madeline said noticing her daughter's reddened face.
"Oh, yes", she straightened her posture,"Day dreaming, sorry momma."
"Your face seems flushed. Are you feeling well?"
"Just warm from the candles and lamps", she noticed Melinda trying not to laugh.
"Finish your dinner and you may go outside for some air", Sean said to his daughter.
"Yes Papa", she nodded her head and took another bite of the vegetables on her plate.
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Torn
Aug 13, 2011 11:57:12 GMT -5
Post by fallingn2ct on Aug 13, 2011 11:57:12 GMT -5
"Paul would you like to join me in the parlor for a brandy?", Sean asked as dinner was cleared away.
"I would indeed", Paul said taking a sideways glance at Melinda and Abbie.
"Abbie, come, we shall get that fresh air while the men talk", Melinda stood and took her sister's arm leading her outside.
"Mel, we need to be able to hear them", Abbie said as they were greeted by the frosty night time air.
"Let them get settled and then we will sit in the hall."
"What do you think Papa will say?", she pulled her shawl tighter about her shoulders.
"I wish I knew", she sighed taking a seat in one of the rocking chairs,"He could very well say that we will never be allowed to go north."
"But if it's for Paul's family to meet you?", she paced back and forth biting at her thumb nail.
"It won't make any difference to Papa and you know that. Once his mind is made up, it's made up."
"This has to work Mel, it just has too."
"They should be settled in the parlor," she straightened her skirts as they went back inside the house. The foyer was dimly lit by candle and oil lamp, the warmth was encompassing as they came in from the cold outdoors.
Abbie had to remind herself to breathe as they stood outside the parlor. Her hands were cold and clammy as her nerves ran rampantly. She could hear the soft tones of Paul and her father as they spoke and sipped at the snifters of brandy.
"Mr. O'Sullivan, there is a matter which I was hoping to speak with you about", Paul began.
"Certainly Paul", Sean answered taking a puff from his cigar,"Nothing like your own tobacco", he rolled the cigar in his fingers.
"Same as my own father says", he laughed,"The matter which I wanted to discuss is the possibility of a brief trip to Boston."
"You have family up that way, is that correct?"
"Yes sir it is, they are all interested in meeting Melinda. The young lady who they say has changed me so."
"Aye, women have that effect on us don't they?", he contemplated what he had just been asked.
"I know that Mel and I going alone would not be appropriate, Abbie said she would be willing to come along. A chaperon so to speak. I would also have some of our house servants along as well."
"Not only are you asking to take one of my daughters up north, but both of them?"
"I know it may sound ridiculous, but we are not at war as of yet and I can assure that they will be well protected on all fronts. I would never let anything happen to either one of them."
" How can you be sure of the dangers that may or may not arise?"
"One can never be sure that no situation will arise, but I can assure you that myself and the others traveling with me will take every precaution."
"How long of a trip would it be?"
"I am estimating it to be about two weeks with traveling. We will be traveling by the new railroad."
"I will have my answer for you by tomorrow. I am not saying yes or no just yet, my wife and I need to discuss the matter."
"Understandably so sir", Paul felt a jolt of accomplishment in that he may have been successful with the conversation.
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Sept 1, 2011 14:38:52 GMT -5
Post by fallingn2ct on Sept 1, 2011 14:38:52 GMT -5
Three days later Abbie stood next to Melinda almost twitching with excitment as their belongings were loaded into the carriage for the trip to the train station. The day was cool and gray, the leaves drenched in shades of orange, gold, and red were scattered across the lawn and catching in the breeze the ruffled the girls skirts.
"Abbie, you shouldn't be quite so excited," Melinda said softly.
"Oh Mel," she sighed,"I can't help it, I will finally see Ryan!"
"Well with momma along, it will not be that simple."
"She will be so busy with you, Paul, & her sister that it should be easy enough for me to get away for a bit."
"You know papa sent her with us because things are getting worse here?"
"What makes you say that?", she pulled her cloak tighter about her shoulders.
"I over heard Paul's father talking to Papa and apparently the men are having a meeting about what to do if the Union army should march on Charleston. They don't think it will be long before it happens."
"It's maddening how they think we women should be left out of such conversations. War affects us the same as it does the men. We are the ones left behind if they have to leave. We suddenly become responsible for everything, yet they think we should stay in the dark about it all."
"Abigail, mind your tongue", Melinda admonished her,"That is no way for a lady to speak."
"Why? Because war is talk only for men? Sometimes I wonder what the men are even using to think."
"You're man is gearing up to fight in this war too!"
"It's different", she answered simply.
"When it suits you", Melinda gave a slight laugh,"Abbie you are a fickle one."
"I just want too get on the road already", she watched as more items were loaded.
"Ladies are we nearly ready?", Paul asked taking Melinda's arm.
"I do believe so", Abbie smiled broadly.
"Paul, you will take care of my girls won't you?", Sean said as Madeline held his arm.
"You have my word Mr. O'Sullivan", he nodded.
"Girls, come say goodbye to your papa", Madeline said motioning to her daughters.
"Melinda, you will watch out for your little sister won't you?", Sean kissed his eldest on the cheek.
"Of course papa", she hugged him,"She will be on her best behavior."
"Abigail, you behave like a young lady. None of your running off and day dreaming. Boston is a big city."
"I will be fine papa, I promise", she squeezed his hand.
"Melinda will get busy with Paul, your momma may need some company."
"I doubt that, Aunt Margaret will see to it that she keeps momma plenty busy. Between sewing & gossiping."
"Abbie", he warned playfully.
"I love you papa", she kissed his cheek and waved as she climbed into the carriage for the ride to the train station.
"You will be okay here alone?", Madeline looked at her husband.
"Perhaps a bit lonely without my girls, but I will be fine. Now you go and have fun with the girls and your sister. No more worries about me."
"I love you Sean", she kissed him softly.
"Love you too Maddy", he held her briefly before releasing her. He watched as his wife followed by Paul climbed into the carriage. He remained on the verandah and waved as the carriages made their way down the drive. Once they were out of sight he took a deep breath and went back inside to tend to unfinished financial business.
The landscape flew by in flashes of of color. The trees nearly appeared to be on fire with the colors of Autumn. The valleys dipped and the mountains rose in a flow almost like waves on an ocean.
"Hello Abigail", came a voice next to her.
"Damian!", she turned looking at the young boy,"How did you make it on?"
"Your Aunt Briana seemed to think that you all would need help & I agreed to come along."
"Please sit", she moved her sewing out of the seat.
"No ma'am, but I thank you", he shook his head.
"Damian, please sit."
"I have to go back to my car ma'am. I only came up to give you this," he handed her an envelope.
"Is it from Ryan?", she asked quietly.
"Yes, he made sure it got to me quickly."
"Thank you Damian", she kissed his cheek.
"You are most welcome", he gave a quick nod and made his way out of the small door.
Abbie pulled the shade on the door down and carefully opened the letter.
Abigail, my darling, I cannot be angry with you. I only worry for your safety. But if you are not travleing alone then I will feel all the better for it. You must let me know once you arrive, there are many who know the shipyards and my area. If you ask people, I am sure they will direct you. It has been far too long since my eyes have been filled with your beauty and far too long since my arms have held you. Knowing that soon this ache will be quenched has lifted my spirits more than I can say.
Travel safely my love. We will be together soon.
Yours Always, Ryan
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Sept 13, 2011 10:11:22 GMT -5
Post by fallingn2ct on Sept 13, 2011 10:11:22 GMT -5
He saw her as she stepped out of the carriage. Her dark, nearly raven hair cascaded in soft curls down her back. The pools of blue that were her eyes took in the grandeur house that lay before her. He kept to the shadows of the treeline. Is heart hammering in his chest, a tight knot in his stomach. He allowed his eyes to simply marvel at the beauty of which he had been deprived of for so long. Abigail was safe and well, he could see from the color in her cheeks as she turned to cast a smile at her sister. That smile, heart breakingly beeautiful and sweet. He watched as she was escorted inside by her mother and let out a breath as the door closed behind her. He waited to see Damian start taking the carriage to the side of the house before moving from his hiding spot.
"Hello lad", Ryan said as Damian began to unbridle the animals.
"Ryan!", Damian exclaimed.
"Shhh", he said quickly.
"What are you doing here?", he said in a near whisper.
"I have been watching the train schedules and I had to be here when you all arrived."
"When Abbie arrived , you mean", he said with a smile.
"Indeed," he said unable to stop the grin that spread,"She looks well."
"She has been extremely excited, but reserved around her mother," He led one of the horses into the stable as Ryan took the other.
"Can you go in and find Abbie? Have her come out to the stables?"
"Ryan, we have just arrived," he started unsure.
"Damian please, I need to speak with her, even if just for a moment."
He sighed,"Let me finish with the horses, it will give the family more time to settle."
"I will help you", Ryan said moving to begin cooling down one of the horses. The two worked side by side for over an hour getting horses settled into the stalls and fed,"I'll wait out here, just tell her something about the horses."
"I'll do what I can," he said clapping him on the shoulder before taking the lantern and making his way into the house. He sat the lantern on the table in the kitchen and slowly opened the door to the dining area. The family was just finishing their meal and the ladies were beginning to excuse themselves,"Ms. Abigail," he said softly.
"Yes Damian?", she stood and made her towards the door.
"Might I speak with you a moment?"
"Of course", stepped into the kitchen,"is everything okay?', she looked at him as the door closed.
"Everything is fine," he assured her,"One of the horses seems a bit over tired, I thought perhaps if you came to look. You seem to have a calming effect on them."
"Certainly, show me the way", she followed him out to the stables carefully holding her skirts above the dirt and hay.
"Over here", Damian said over his shoulder opening the large door to the stables,"Here she is", he held the lamp up to the chesnut mare.
"Tired are you girl?", she cooed softly opening the door. She rubbed a hand along her neck patting the large animal gently,"She seems okay", she looked up from the mare and stood motionless.
"Hello Abigail", Ryan said softly. She had not moved, her hand frozen against the horse's neck.
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Oct 10, 2011 14:19:57 GMT -5
Post by fallingn2ct on Oct 10, 2011 14:19:57 GMT -5
"Ryan", she barely uttered an audible whisper. His steely blue eyes glittered in the lamp light, his old hat sat snugly in place, his ears slightly red from the cold. She could see a day's worth of growth on his face as he gave her a smile,"How did you?" she couldn't finishe the question as he came towards her.
"Knowing the train schedule and of course Damian's help" he answered taking her hands in his.
"I have missed you", she took a deep breath determined to keep herself from throwing her arms around his neck and sobbing.
"And I you", he put an arm around her waist pulling her against him allowing his other hand to gently skim along her cheek. He could see the tears in her eyes as he lowered his lips to hers,"Welcome to Boston", he murmered.
"Lovely welcoming," she smiled as he held her tighter.
"How was your journey here?"
"Far too long", she sighed resting her head against his shoulder reveling in the feel of his arms and his scent.
"I know you're family will wonder where you got off too," he stroked her hair,"but I needed to see you."
"They are far too weary and busy to miss me", she brought her eyes level with his,"Let's stay for a bit."
"As if I needed convincing", he laughed smoothing her hair and kissing her forehead,"Fill me in on life", he kept her hand in his as they sat on an old work bench in the barn.
"Momma and Mel are absolutely caught up in the wedding details. Mel is fretting that the date will be moved up because of the talk of war heating up."
"There has been talk of going South soon after the new year", Ryan said,"They want the Union to take hold of the ports to injur the South's imports and exports."
"Why would they do that? Don't they know it's what is required for us to live?"
"It's to make the point love", he said softly,"We cut off the imports they can no longer import slaves or sell them off. Cutting off the exports leads to money loss. It changes things tremendously."
"Money loss results in people becoming poor and going hungry. Not everyone has that luxury in the South, if you were there you would not."
"You're so used to the money Abbie", he tucked a stray piece of hair behind her ear,"You may almost not realize what was happening until your father began to fret over the platation."
"I'm used to the money and that makes it okay?", she questioned looking at him,"I don't want this war, I want no part of it. If it meant that I had to live in a shack and live day to day then I would!"
"Abbie wait!", he called as she stormed angrily towards the door,"Please love, we've only just come to one another after so long a part."
"I hate all of this", she suddenly sobbed turning to him,"Why can't it be simple?"
"Because that's not how things work all the time", he gingerly took her arms and held her,"Our love", he kissed her forehead,"Is not going to be easy, it never was meant to be."
"It's not fair", she sighed closing her eyes,"Any of it."
"I know", he said placing a finger under her chin,"You need rest. I will come tomorrow after work."
"I don't want you to go", she lowered her lashes focusing on the buttons of his jacket.
"Shall I sleep in the barn then?", he teased.
"If it were not so cold", she laughed.
"Until tomorrow?"
"Until tomorrow", she said as she tilted her face for his kiss.
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Torn
Dec 2, 2011 15:18:49 GMT -5
Post by fallingn2ct on Dec 2, 2011 15:18:49 GMT -5
Abbie awoke to a soft knocking on the bedroom door,"Come in", she said attempting to smooth her hair and allowing her eyes to adjust to the light.
"Good morning Abigail,"Madeline swept into the room followed by Sarah who carried a pitcher of water.
"Momma, you're up early," she yawned.
"Suppose it is excitement," she smiled,"Come now, Sarah will help you dress. We are to go shopping with Melinda and Aunt Margaret."
"Momma, must I go?", she stood giving a slight shiver as her feet touched the floor,"You know I would much rather be reading a book or enjoying the fresh air."
"I knew you would ask that", she smiled at her daughter,"Some time with us my dear and then you may have the afternoon to yourself."
"Thank you momma!", she hugged her.
"Sarah, please help my mess of a daughter to get ready", she said with a playful smile.
"Yes ma'am", Sarah answered smoothing out the dress that had been laid out for Abbie.
"I'll be down soon", Abbie said as the door closed,"I got to see Ryan last night!"
"No wonder you awoke so cheerful", Sarah laughed.
"Oh Sarah," she sighed,"Seeing him there in front of me, having his arms around me."
"Made you a very happy girl Ms. Abbie", she began making the bed as her charge began dressing.
"Yes it did Sarah," she gushed,"he's coming tonight after he's finished at the ship yards. Although, I wonder if I could slip away after shopping."
"Trust me Miss," she looked turned to face Abbie,"Ship yards are no place for a lady."
"Why is that?", she asked innocently.
"Too many men, too many of 'em drinkin' and not bein' very nice."
"Have you seen for yourself Sarah?"
"No ma'am" she shook her head,"but I know people who have and trust me when I say, they're no place for you to be goin'."
"I wouldn't be alone, you could come."
"No Ms. Abbie, I won't do that. If you want to get in a heap o' touble with your momma, you go ahead and do that. Don't include me."
"Suit yourself", she shrugged adjusting the locket on her neck,"I'm sure I can find someone to go with me."
"You are askin' for trouble," Sarah said shaking her head.
"I will be fine Sarah," she kissed her cheek and practically danced out of the room. She made her way downstairs humming to herself.
"You are in a lovely mood this morning", Melinda looked at her sister.
"Good morning, Mel", she answered taking her seat at the table as breakfast was beginning to be served.
"We're to go into the city for shopping, isn't that exciting!"
"I can hardly wait", she faked the enthusiasm and was given a scowl.
"Paul and his cousins will be meeting us for lunch."
"Speaking of Paul", Margaret began,"Apparently one of those cousins is a young man who is unttached and quite the looker."
"What's his name?", Madeline asked before daintily taking a bite of a biscuit.
"His name his Emmet Cahill,"Margaret answered,"Abigail, I am sure he will be all to happy to meet you."
"Thank you, Aunt Margaret", Abbie said with a nod of her head,"But, I am in no hurry to be married off to someone I do not know."
"No one said marriage,"Madeline looked at her daughter,"To be courted would be good for you Abigail."
"Momma, leave Abbie alone", Melinda smiled,"If she wants to be an old maid, then let her."
"Thanks Mel,"Abbie rolled her eyes pushing at the food on her plate.
"Abigail, it is high time you got your head out of your fantasies,"Margaret said, a tone of annoyance in her voice,"Your father never should have let you read so much."
"May I be excused?", Abbie felt any appetite flee her body.
"Yes,"Madeline said casting a glare at her older sister,"How dare you speak to my daughter that way! To speak of my husband in that way."
"Maddy, is there no truth in what I say?", Margaret began,"Just look at Melinda, she is what a young lady should be; elegant, betrothed, well mannered, respectable. Then there's Abigail; wild, sharp tongued, head in the clouds. When is enough, enough?"
"My daughter may not be what we all expect her to be, but she is still my daughter. It would do you well to show her respect and treat her with such."
"Tell her to meet this Emmet fellow, she may take a liking to him."
"I'll try to talk to her," the table fell silent as the three women ate their meals.
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Torn
Dec 5, 2011 8:24:02 GMT -5
Post by fallingn2ct on Dec 5, 2011 8:24:02 GMT -5
Abbie stood in the barn, her shoulders trembling as tears streaked down her face. She breathed in the sweet scent of hay, the smell of the horses and the small noises they made as they ate comforted her.
"Ms.Abigail", Damian said from behind her.
"Oh, Damian", she swiped furiously at her cheeks,"I thought I was alone."
"Is everything okay?", he looked at her.
"No", she shook her head,"Everything is wrong."
"Come sit," he took her arm leading her to a bale of hay,"What happened?"
"I am supposed to meet some new suitor this afternoon, one of Paul's cousins," she took a deep breath to avoid the tears,"My aunt thinks that I am wasting my time and she blamed my father for the person I am. She is a hateful woman!"
"Abbie", he said softly,"You are angry and that's okay. But your aunt, she only thinks she's doing what's right by standards."
"Whose standards?", she said angrily,"Certainly not mine."
"As far as they know, you are without a man in your life. You have made a choice they won't agree with and you can't help what your heart feels. You love Ryan and with that comes a lot of obstacles."
"I just want to be with him", she sobbed,"It would be so easy."
"Would it?", he questioned,"Would you be willing to give up everything for him?"
"I would", she nodded fervently,"As long as we're together, then I know things will be okay."
"What about with the war? The army is headed south after the new year. You will be left alone, to take care of a home, to face God knows what. You wouldn't need your family?"
Abbie realized what he was saying, she would be turning her back on everything. She would be alone when Ryan was off to war. Not knowing when or if she would see him. Letters would come every so often, but there could possibly be a time where she knew nothing. Was she ready to face the cold hard facts that she would be alone?
"I don't know what to do Damian", she said quietly.
"To save face, appease your aunt, meet this suitor."
"If I do this, will you help me to the ship yards?"
"Abbie", he shook his head,"It would be better for Ryan to come here. That place is dark and the people are not what you think."
"Please Damian", she pleaded,"I need to go to him."
Damian sighed,"I will help you, I will be with the horses while you all dine for lunch. Come find me as soon as you are done and I will take you."
"Thank you Damian!" she kissed his cheek,"Thank you for everything." She stood up and dusted her skirt,"I suppose I should go speak with my mother about rushing out."
"I'm sure she will understand," he smiled as she left the barn.
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Torn
Dec 7, 2011 11:33:37 GMT -5
Post by fallingn2ct on Dec 7, 2011 11:33:37 GMT -5
"Abbie", Madeline knocked on the closed door of the bedroom.
"Come in", she answered softly.
"Are you okay darlin'", she asked.
"I'm fine momma", she nodded,"Nothing like a scolding from Aunt Margaret."
"She had no right to speak to you like that and I told her so."
"Thank you", she averted her eyes back to the vanity and picked up a small brush.
"Here, let me", Madeline took the brush and began running it through her daughter's hair,"When you were little I would brush your hair every night before bed, remember that?"
"I do", Abbie smiled,"That was my favorite part of the day."
"Mine too", she sighed,"Abigail, you must understand that we all only want what's best for you. The fact that you have not yet chosen a suitor is a little troubling."
"Momma, have you all ever thought that maybe I know what's best for me? That I don't want to be married off to just anyone? I want to be in love Momma, so in love that it hurts to breathe when we're apart, that when I see him it feels like all is right in the world. I want him to look at me the way papa looks at you."
"Oh Abigail", she hugged her daughter and looked at her in the mirror as she held her,"you have always had your heds in the clouds and I have never minded. You have ideas about love and those ideas are beautiful. I love your father, with my whole being", she paused,"but I was told I would marry him. Of course I knew who he was & that he was pursuing me, but I wasn't interested in him."
"You weren't?", she turned to look at her mother.
"Not in the least, but your grandfather informed me of my duty to my family. I always told myself that I would never do the same to either one of my girls. When Melinda met Paul, I saw how her eyes sparkled and I knew she would be okay. But you my love," she gave her daughter a tender smile,"You have always had a different idea."
"It's just," she gently touched the locket that hung at her neck,"I know I have a responsibility to my family and that we as women have obligations, but I cannot help what I feel in my heart."
"Have you someone you are keeping secret?"
Abbie gulped, but knew she couldn't breathe a word of how in love she was and how she only wanted to be with Ryan,"I only imagine what that feeling is like."
"Abigail, for me, please give Emmet a chance. You never know, you may take a liking to him."
"Okay", she agreed half heartedly,"For you momma."
"There's my girl", she bent to kiss the top of her head,"I'll send Sarah to help you finish getting ready to go to town."
"No need, simply let me know when we must leave. I will come down then."
"I will", she closed the door gently behind her.
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Torn
Dec 8, 2011 9:34:04 GMT -5
Post by fallingn2ct on Dec 8, 2011 9:34:04 GMT -5
"Paul, darling!", Melinda flashed a smile to her betrothed.
"Hello my love", he kissed her cheek taking her hand,"Ladies, thank you for giving us the pleasure of your company this afternoon."
"Thank you for asking us to dine with you", Margaret said with a nod.
"My cousins are in the dining area, shall we?", he led the way with Melinda on his arm.
Abbie followed silently wishing that some how or some way she could escape the next few hours of food and conversation. She watched as the others paraded in infront of her, smiles and greetings. Kisses on the hand, flatteries being showered, fake laughter so sweet it was nauseating. She turned her head when her name was spoken.
"Abigail, this is my Uncle Patrick's son, Emmet Cahill," Paul said as the young man next to him stepped foward.
"Tis a pleasure miss", he took her hand kissing it briefly.
"You as well", she gave a slight bow pulling her hand away carefully.
"Abbie will sit next to me", Melinda said,"and Emmet you can be next to her."
"Certainly", he pulled the chair out for the girl with eyes the color a clear, calm, lake,"Here you are madam", he held his hand out.
"Thank you good sir", she ignored the hand and took her seat. He wasn't bad looking with warm hazel eyes and brown hair, he was taller than she, but her mind kept drifting to how soon she could take her leave.
"How is Charleston?", Emmet attempted conversation,"I must confess, I have not been much further south than Virginia."
"Tis lovely", Abbie answered,"I have grown up there."
"I imagine living down south as a lot of social gatherings, according to Paul you all have some of the best."
She nibbled at the bread placed in front of her before answering,"I am not much for large social gatherings. I attend when required."
"That makes two of us", he laughed.
"Have you ever just stood and watched how prim and proper people can be? Even when you know they can't stand it."
"It's one of my favorite things to do", he cast her a smile.
He was nice enough, she thought, easy to talk too. How ever, he was not Ryan. She kept up idol conversation and smiled or laughed when the moment was right. Emmet would be a friend, someone more like herself than she thought. Lunch could not end soon enough for her, her eyes were watching the windows looking for Damian, her heart kept a steady gallop as the meal began to come to a close. Finally after nearly two hours of dining the men began to excuse themselves for cigars and brandy.
"Abigail, it has been a pleasure", Emmet slid his chair back.
"It has indeed", she smiled,"I'm sure we will see each other soon."
"Seeing as there is an impending marriage, it's guaranteed to happen," he took her hand helping her up from her own chair.
"Emmet", Margaret began,"Your father is hosting a cotillion for Melinda and Paul, perhaps you could escort young Abigail."
"Aunt Margaret,"Abbie began pulling her hand from Emmet's", I am sure Mr. Cahill is very busy."
"Emmet, please", he said with a smile," and I would be delighted if Abigail would allow me to escort her."
"Of course she would", Margaret gave her niece a firm pinch on the arm.
"Of course I would", Abbie sighed but managed a smile.
"Then I will see you in a few days time", he bent & kissed her hand before leaving with the other men.
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