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Torn
Dec 8, 2011 20:53:34 GMT -5
Post by fallingn2ct on Dec 8, 2011 20:53:34 GMT -5
"Aunt Margaret, that was not fair" Abbie turned to her,"I am not some head of cattle to be herded to the slaughter."
"Watch your tongue Abigail", she said quickly,"If your mother will do nothing about you, so help me I will."
"Excuse me", she said curtly. Her skirts brushing against the floor as she exited the room quickly.
"What just happened?", Madeline looked to her sister.
"Emmet will be escorting Abigail to the cotillion being given by his father."
"You didn't find need to discuss with me?"
"You were caught up with Melinda, I took it upon myself."
"And now my daughter has walked out into a strange city by herself."
"Relax Maddy, she has probably gone out to be with the horses or talk with the help. Another thing that should be discouraged, the cavorting with the help. It's not becoming of a young woman."
"Oh Margaret, give it a rest. Abbie is my daughter, not yours. Now I have to figure out where she went."
"I'm having the carriage take me back home. Melinda and Paul have gone for a stroll, he will be bringing her home later."
"Perhaps Abbie went with them", she said looking around,"I'm sure she's fine, she's quite self sufficent."
"Then home it is", Margaret motioned towards the lady in waiting who attended her needs,"Fetch the carriage and let them know we are ready to go home."
"Yes Ms. Margaret", she curtsied and made her way outside.
Abbie stood next to Damian as he hitched the horses. She counted the clicks of the harnesses and every time he clipped the reins,"Are you nearly finished?"
"Patience Abbie", he laughed,"The horses are nearly finished and then we will be off."
"You know the area then? The shipyards?"
"Not very well, but usually they are not difficult to navigate. Just be wary and stay close to me. There are some unfriendly kind who hang out in those places."
"I will, I promise", she smiled,"I hope Ryan will be surprised."
"I think he'll be most surprised you were brave enough to venture to the shipyards."
"I think he knows me well enough by now," she turned her attention to a couple walking down the road arm in arm, laughing smiling, they were in love and let it be known to the world. That is what she wanted, that freedom to declare her love and let it be known that Ryan was the only one for her. She sighed and then quickly hid behind Damian as she saw Emmet walking with his brother from the small cafe.
"Ah, the suitor Ms. Margaret wanted you to meet."
"Don't bring it up, please", she sighed,"Can we go please?"
"Yes, the horses are set", he spoke briefly with the driver and then they were alone,"Shall we?"
"Yes!", she followed him as they began their walk to the harbor area.
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Torn
Dec 19, 2011 12:11:32 GMT -5
Post by fallingn2ct on Dec 19, 2011 12:11:32 GMT -5
Ships loomed large and menacing, lolling gently as water lapped at their bows. Men sat atop some, hammers and saws could be heard. The habor smelled of stale sea water mixed with hot tar and wood. Men loomed in corners with cigarettes and cigars hanging from their lips, barrels filled with flames gave the eerie feeling of being watched.
"Ms.Abbie, stay close to me", Damian said his eyes darting from side to side.
"How are we to find Ryan?", she asked drawing her shawl closer about her shoulders.
"Let me worry about that", he replied leading the way past a group of men.
"You look at of place here", one of them jeered at Abbie, his eyes were dark and red rimmed.
"Think she's got any money?", another approached from the opposite side.
"She's here with me", Damian drew Abbie behind him,"We're just here to see a friend."
"The lass sure is pretty", a tall man extinguished a cigarette and stepped away from the others,"What friend could she possibly have here?", his eyes were cold and flat he brandished a knife and skimed it over his thumb.
"We're looking for Ryan Kelly", Damian gulped,"He is a close friend of both of us."
"Can't say I know him", the man turned the blade over in his hands,"What is your name girl?", he turned his eyes on Abbie.
"You don't need to know that,"Damian said quickly.
"Don't believe I was talkin to you lad. I'll ask again, what is your name girl?"
"My name's Abigail", she answered timidly, she could feel her heart hammering in fear, a nervous sweat was beading her forehead despite the cold.
"Well Abigail, my name's Landon, pleasure to meet you", he extended his hand.
"We'll be going now", Damian attempted to pull Abbie with him.
"You may be goin lad, but I'd like to talk to the lass", Landon grabbed her arm.
"No, please", Abbie shook her head, her eyes wide with fear.
"I'm not goin to hurt you girl", he sneered as the other men held onto Damian,"Lovely locket you got there", he lifted it from her neck using the blade of the knife.
"Take it if that's what you want", she said attempting to pull free from his hold.
"I prefer it when the rich ones get feisty", he laughed.
"Let her go", came a low gravelly voice from behind the others.
Abbie let out a whimper when she saw Ryan step from the shadows.
"Just having a bit o' fun with the girl", Landon said not releasing his hold on Abbie.
"If you know what's good for you, you'll let her go", Ryan rolled up his sleeves.
"Doubt she's worth it anyway", Landon finally released Abbie,"Think before coming here again", he said sliding the blade back into his boot.
"Abbie, come to me", Ryan held out his hand to her. He nearly crushed her against his side as his arm encircled her,"Let the lad be."
"Boys", Landon said,"Let's get outta here, looks like boy'o here likes the richies."
Damian pulled his arm free and watched as the small group sulked away,"Thanks Ryan," he dusted himself off.
"What the devil were you thinking coming here?", Ryan looked at Abbie.
"I.........I'm........I....wanted to see you," she said as her pulse began to finally slow.
"I tried to talk her out of it", Damian said,"You know she doesn't listen."
"Thank God I showed up", Ryan kissed her forehead,"Are you okay?"
"Yes, yes I'm fine," she sighed breathing him in,"Damian, are you okay?", she looked to the younger boy.
"Fine, yes", he nodded,"If you both are okay, I will be off."
"I'll get her home", Ryan shook his hand before turning back to Abbie,"You are insane Abigail."
"I'm sorry Ryan", she said gazing into his eyes,"but I had to come find you."
"Come, we'll get you warmed up and then see to it you get home."
"Aren't you at least glad to see me?"
"I'll let you know when I'm not angry about what nearly happened back there."
"Are you angry with me?", she asked as they approached a building.
"Abbie", he sighed,"You shouldn't have come here. I told you I would come to you. Do you see why now?"
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Torn
Dec 22, 2011 14:39:44 GMT -5
Post by fallingn2ct on Dec 22, 2011 14:39:44 GMT -5
"I understand your concern for me Ryan", she followed him inside and up stairs,"but I needed to see you."
"Abbie, you could have been killed back there", he turned on her with anger blazing in his icey eyes,"Do you not understand that? I could have killed that man for having his hands on you! The thought of losing you or of some man just," he squeezed his eyes shut,"I am not angry with you, I am angry at what could have been had I not shown up."
"But everything is fine now", Abbie gulped feeling tears prick her eyes at his anger,"I should have been more thoughtful of you", she placed her hands on either side of his face,"I love you Ryan."
"By God Abigail, I was terrified," he took her hands and pulled her agaist his chest kissing the top of her head.
"I was too", she whispered.
Keeping an arm around her he led them up another flight of stairs to a door that had seen years of wear. The dark wood was knicked and scratched, a number 3 hung loosely from a nail,"It's little more than two small rooms, but it's home," he opened the door.
"Ryan, it's perfect", she smiled at him. He had been telling the truth, it was a large room divided by a wall. A small stove sat in a corner with a flue that went through the ceiling, make shift beds lay on either side. She knew that was where they must sleep to stay warm, two oil lamps sat a top a small table casting shadows across the main room.
"Didn't know you would be having company", a tall bald stepped out of the side room wiping his freshly shaven face with a towel.
"George, this is Abigail", Ryan introduced him.
"Finally, the girl this boy o' goes on about", George took her hand in his.
"The man who has been so kind to my love", she curtsied.
"Aye, no need for such proper manners there lass. I must ask though, what are you doin here?"
"Long story", Ryan said before Abbie could answer,"We're going to get her warmed up with some tea and a bit of bread. Then I'll be taking her home."
"Well enough then", he placed a cap on his head,"I'm headed down to the pub for a spell. Some o' the boys an me are playing some songs from home tonight. You're welcome to come."
"That sounds", Abbie was cut off as Ryan spoke.
"Pub's no place for a lady there George."
"Right", he nodded giving a wave.
"Thank you for asking my opinion", Abbie said crossing her arms.
"None of that now love", Ryan cast her a smile,"I haven't had you to myself in quite sometime."
"Is that so Mr. Kelly", she felt the heat in her face.
"It is indeed," he closed the space between them taking her in his arms. Their lips met passionately, drinking as if they had been deprived for longer than either one knew. The fire in the stove and the heat from the lamps causing the room to glow soft and warm.
"Ryan", Abbie whispered against his lips,"Ryan."
"Must we talk", he kissed her neck.
"Yes", she sighed fighting new urges in her,"Please, we have too."
"Okay", he agreed kissing her again before allowing the unwanted separation.
"We should sit", she laughed taking his hand as they went to the table.
"I'll start the tea", he snuck one last kiss.
Abbie was grateful for the chair as her head had begun to spin and her body to tremble,"I have to tell you something and I don't want you to be angry."
"Abigail, after how I felt earlier, I'm sure I can handle anything," he poured hot water into two mugs and placed tea bags into them bringing them to the table,"What's troubling you love?"
"Today we had lunch with Paul and some of his cousins. One of his cousins my Aunt was particularly interested in introducing me too."
"I am guessing she sees a potential suitor?", he sipped his tea.
Abbie nodded,"Paul's uncle will be hosting a cotillion for Melinda and Paul. His cousin, Emmet, is to escort me," she searched his face for a reaction.
"Well this is a predicament", he rested his chin against his palm.
"I don't want to go with him, you know that. But I fear my Aunt and what she may do should I not go."
"Then your aunt will have to meet the dashing Ryan Kelly who saved your life in the ship yard," he teased.
"Ryan be serious, please."
"I am", he countered,"I know how to clean up decently enough. I will be walking you home this evening, so perhaps then I could be introduced."
"Would you Ryan? Really?"
"We both know we can't be without one another and while there are circumstances upcoming that will make it difficult I am sure we could pull it off."
"Oh Ryan", Abbie gushed taking his hand,"I only hope it works."
"Abigail, we have declared our love for one another and therefore I will not have another man think it okay to court you."
"A bit of jealousy?", she teased.
"Maybe a small bit", he laughed caressing her cheek.
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Torn
Dec 30, 2011 16:48:37 GMT -5
Post by fallingn2ct on Dec 30, 2011 16:48:37 GMT -5
The night was cold and clear as Abbie and Ryan walked the quiet streets. The gas lights from the lamp posts burned bright and inviting from the corners. Stars twinkled like scattered diamonds across a velvety blue of the night sky.
"I must say, you certainly look dashing in a uniform", Abbie said walking closer to Ryan.
"Why thank you Ms. O'Sullivan", he smiled at her,"I wish I had something nicer than this."
"I'm sure my aunt will be impressed," she laughed,"my mother and sister on the other hand may not like the idea of a Union soldier walking me home."
"They may not like the idea of me being a Union soldier, but they will appreciate how I rescued you from the claws of a less than honorable man."
"Aye, right you are about that", she tensed as the large house came into view.
"Are you okay love?", he stopped keeping her hand in his.
Abbie swallowed nervously,"I suppose so, I just..."
"Just what?", he pulled her beside a small building.
"What if something goes wrong Ryan? What if Mel says something or Paul recognizes you?"
"Abigail, look at me", he placed a finger under her chin,"You love me right?"
"Of course I do", she was transfixed by his icey colored eyes in the moonlight.
"Then everything will be fine", he lowered his mouth to hers,"Trust me", he murmered.
"I trust you", she breathed wrapping her arms around his neck,"I love you Ryan, no matter what happens."
"And I love you Abbie", he gently traced her lips with his thumb,"No matter what," he kissed her again,"Come now, it's late."
"No better time than the present," she said as they made their way to the steps of the house.
"There you are Abigail!", Madeline came running out the door,"Where have you been?"
"Momma, I'm sorry," she took her arm from Ryan's,"I was taking a walk and got lost."
"Oh, I knew you would get lost!", she fretted over her daughter looking her up and down.
"I'm fine momma, I promise", she hugged her again,"I was actually fortunate enough to have someone come to my rescue."
"How rude of me," Madeline made a small curtsy to the soldier,"Thank you for seeing my daughter home safely sir."
"My pleasure," Ryan gave a bow.
"Private Ryan Kelly, this is my mother Madeline,"Abbie introduced them.
"Pleasure to meet you sir", Madeline gave a bow of her head.
"You as well Ma'am," he smiled.
"May we offer you some coffee?", she asked.
"I think Private Kelly has done enough this evening,"Emmet suddenly appeared,"Thank you for bringing Abigail home."
Abbie felt the anger boil under her skin,"Mr.Cahill, I wasn't expecting you."
"Melinda sent for Paul and I when you did not come home after lunch."
"Please don't be rude to our guest," she glared at him.
Ryan eyed Emmet with a contempt,"I'll take a cup of coffee, but then must be off."
"Very well, we'll have it brought into the parlor,"Emmet held the door open as the others passed inside.
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Torn
Jan 3, 2012 16:51:24 GMT -5
Post by fallingn2ct on Jan 3, 2012 16:51:24 GMT -5
Emmet appraised Ryan as he entered the house. This soldier did not walk like someone who had much of anything. It was easy to tell by posture where someone came from. This man was obviously part of the poor Irish. He smirked to himself as he thought of ways to show who this man really was. He watched Abigail as she spoke about getting lost and the soldier coming to her rescue. She was beautiful with that long thick hair and eyes that smiled. He was taken with her, after only spending a lunch with her. He had plans to call on her the following day, but this man was beginning to put a damper on his plans.
"Private Kelly", Emmet began,"do tell us where you are from."
"Mr. Cahill," Ryan awknowledged the request,"I hail from a village in Ireland called The Moy. Came to America some years ago."
"And besides being a soldier, what else do you do?"
"He is a soldier Mr. Cahill, what else would you think he did?"
"Tis only a question Ms. Abigail", he smiled.
"Ryan, please you don't owe him any explanation", Abbie looked at him with pleading eyes.
"Emmet, you are being rude", Paul said taking a puff from a cigar,"A soldiers work is dubious enough. I'm sure Mr. Kelly here is tied up with all that his duties require."
"A simple question is all I asked,"Emmet faigned innocense.
"Emmet, if I may call you so, I am a soldier as is evident. However I do a bit of farming and training of horses."
"So you're a farmer", he said simply.
"Aye, if you choose to say it in such a way. I find a joy in creating life from the soil, the sunlight feels good on one's back as you work. I'm sure it is nothing compared to the arduous work of working for one's father."
Emmet stiffened at the insult,"I'm sure I don't know what you speak of sir."
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Torn
Jan 19, 2012 15:29:16 GMT -5
Post by fallingn2ct on Jan 19, 2012 15:29:16 GMT -5
"Of course I wasn't insisting this is what you do sir", Ryan said taking a sip from the mug of coffee,"Ladies, I thank you for your hospitality. I should be going."
"Ryan, please, you don't have too", Abbie stood up,"If anyone should take their leave it is Mr.Cahill."
"Abigail, mind yourself", Margaret said coolly.
"No Aunt Margaret, not when a guest in this house is being dliberately rude," she answered feeling her temper flare.
"I will be taking Emmet home", Paul said trying to calm the room,"Melinda, I will see you tomorrow", he kissed her hand,"Come along Emmet."
"I am truly sorry Abigail", Emmet looked at her.
"I am not the one you should apologize too", she matched his gaze.
He raised his chin slightly and looked at Ryan,"Thank you for bringing her home safely and I'm sorry."
"Good evening sir", Ryan said in dismissal with a nod of his head.
"Private Kelly, should you be off as well?", Margaret eyed him.
"I actually should", he placed the mug on a saucer on the table,"Thank you again ladies for your kidness."
"Thank you sir", Madeline smiled.
"I'll see you out Ryan", Abigail followed him to the front porch. She quickly looked behind her,"I am so sorry Ryan, I had no idea!"
"No love", he took her hands,"no need, he is a jealous cad. It was nice to see him sweat."
"He has infuriated me", she said angrily,"thinking he has some sort of right to me."
"Typical of some upper crust men", he attempted to make her laugh,"Abbie, really it's fine."
"I hate it here", she looked at him,"Can't we just go away? Just get on a ship and sail to Ireland?"
"That is a tall order", he brushed her hair off her shoulder,"One day my love, one day I promise you."
"It won't be soon will it?"
"No", he shook his head,"Come now, let us have a kiss and I will be off."
Abbie looked around yet again before stepping into his arms,"I love you."
"And I you."
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Torn
Feb 2, 2012 11:55:27 GMT -5
Post by fallingn2ct on Feb 2, 2012 11:55:27 GMT -5
Abbie learned the rhythm of her Aunt's house over the next few days. She knew when she could steal away to meet Ryan. She made fast friends with many of the servants and they were all too happy to help her in her endeavors. None seemed to be fond of her aunt. A week had flown by before anyone had realized and soon it was the day of the cotillion. Abbie was on her morning stroll with Ryan when he brought the matter up.
"You are still attending the party with Emmet this evening?", he asked.
"Unfortunately", she answered with a sigh,"He has yet to even set foot in my prescence after his scene last week."
"That temper of yours is something to be contended with", he grinned giving her hand a squeeze.
"I wish you would be in attendance, it would make the night so much less dreadful."
"I won't be far from you Abbie, I will be helping Damian with the horses."
"You will?", she looked at him.
"I have to be sure Mr. Cahill knows that you are not on your own."
"That means so much to me, Ryan."
"I suppose that you must return home to begin readying for this evenings festivities."
"I suppose so as well", she laughed as they stopped at their usual corner where they split off,"Will I see you tonight?"
"You may not see me, but know I am not far away," he cupped her face gently,"Until then", he brought his mouth down to hers.
Abbie took one last look back at Ryan as she felt the color in her face and the smile she couldn't hide. She sighed happily as she walked.
"Does your mother know what you're up to?", came a familiar voice from behind her.
She turned and froze as she saw Emmet,"Mr. Cahill, I unfortunatly do not know what you mean."
"Don't play coy Abigail", he tucked a watch back into the waist coat he wore,"Covorting with someone who is nothing more than a lowly stable boy, masqerading as a soldier."
"Ryan is masquerading as nothing, he is a soldier."
"Come off it Abigail", he said coming towards her,"I should do you a a favor and mention it to your family. That way it can end before it has gone too far."
She felt the breath leave her body as he looked at her. Her blood began to simmer at his threat,"You have no right", she turned away speeding up her pace.
"Oh but I think I do", he caught up with her,"You have been misleading with me."
"And how is that?"
"You agreed to attend the cotillion on my arm."
"Have I broken my word?"
"Not as of yet, but 'tis clear you have no intention of truly keeping it."
"What do you mean?", she stopped, flustered with his words.
"I know you will be sneaking away to see him, shall I spend the evening trying to track you down? Perhaps the barn in a stall? Is that how it works?"
Abbie glared at him as she fought to control the urge to slap him,"You sir are not a gentleman to accuse me of such things. Good day to you."
"Then deny them", he matched pace with her again,"Put me in my place and deny them!"
"I have nothing further to say to you!" she looked towards the house praying someone would see and rescue her,"Now be gone with you."
"You will be on my arm this evening Abigail", he grabbed her arm roughly.
"I would rather be in the presence of a mule that to have you escort me anywhere!", she tugged her arm free and slammed the gate closed. Tears of anger and fear pricked her eyes as she closed the door and leaned against it.
"Was the Emmet I saw out there?", Melinda asked coming out from the parlor.
"If you mean the rude, impudent, cocky person who just manhandled me, then yes", Abbie said carefully smoothing her hair.
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Torn
Feb 29, 2012 13:42:57 GMT -5
Post by fallingn2ct on Feb 29, 2012 13:42:57 GMT -5
"What do you mean man handled?", Melinda looked at her sister.
"He saw me with Ryan", Abbie sighed,"He threatened to tell the family and when I tried to walk away he grabbed me."
"That will not do at all!", she said angrily,"What about the cotillion tonight?"
"I will still attend, but I refuse to be on his arm."
"Paul will be told about this Abigail", she assured her,"He had no right at all to treat you in that manner."
"What do you think Aunt Margaret or momma will say?"
"It matters not what they say", she hugged her,"Paul and I will see to it that Emmet stays away from you tonight."
"Thank you Mel", she returned the hug,"Shall we begin dressing then?"
"I suppose we should, but you need to eat lunch first. Sarah and the others provided a splendid spread of cold meats and biscuits."
"I am hungry", she admitted following her sister. After a leisurely lunch the two sisters went upstairs to Melinda's rooms where they were powdered, perfumed, and corseted into their dresses. Abbie wore a saphire colored gown that scooped low on the neck, a small pendant of the same color dangled from her throat, diamond earrings bobbed on her ears. Melinda donned a burgundy gown, the neck did not come as low, she was betrothed after all. Her jewelery was modest and understated. At six o'clock the girls made their way downstairs to be greeted by Paul.
"Ladies," Paul took a bow,"You are both visions this evening."
"Paul, you are the sweetest", Melinda flashed a dazzling smile,"Is the carriage ready?"
"It is my dear", he took her hand kissing it,"Emmet will be meeting us at my uncle's."
"We actually need to talk about that", she whispered.
"You girls go ahead", Margaret said,"Your mother and I will be along shortly."
"See you soon my dears", Madeline kissed each of her daughters on the cheek.
"What happened with Emmet?", Paul looked to Abbie as they climed into the carriage. He listened as she regaled the story of earlier that day. He grew infuriated at his cousin's actions towards a woman and the rough manner in which he had spoken too and touched her,"Abigail, I do apologize", he said tightly,"I will speak to him about this."
"I don't wish to cause a scene Paul, I truly don't", Abbie said.
"No, what Emmet did was wrong and hurtful and it will not go unnoticed."
"Thank you for being so wonderful", Melinda kissed her fiancee's cheek as the carriage slowed and stopped in front of a grand house.
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Torn
Mar 20, 2012 10:19:33 GMT -5
Post by fallingn2ct on Mar 20, 2012 10:19:33 GMT -5
Patrick Cahill's house was set close to the heart of Boston. The grand mansion was a blaze with gas lights and candles. Carriages lined the street as guest after guest was dropped off. Patrick and his wife Evelyn greeted their guests. Emmet stood directly inside the door greeting the guests as well. He was barely aware of the handshakes he had given and the smile plastered on his lips. He was waiting to see if Abigail would show after their run in earlier in the day. Maybe he should not have said what he did, but the fact of the matter was that he had intended on courting her and now there was an obstacle in the way and he had to figure out a way to remove that obstacle.
"Emmet", Evelyn to turned to her son,"Your cousin is here. Is that Abigail?", she looked at the dark haired girl that stepped from the carriage.
"That is indeed," he smiled tightly.
"My, my she is quite lovely" ,she observed,"Have you called on her yet?"
"Not as of yet mother, but I intend too."
"Make sure you dance with her this evening", she turned back as Paul and Melinda approached them,"Paul, you finally made it to Boston."
"Aunt Evelyn, lovely as ever", Paul kissed her cheek,"May I present my fiancee' Ms. Melinda O'Sullivan."
"Tis a pleasure Mrs. Cahill", Melinda gave a curtsy.
"The pleaure is mine Melinda", Evelyn smiled,"Please come in and enjoy yourselves, this party is for you after all."
"Aunt Evelyn, this is Melinda's sister Abigail", Paul intriduced the two.
"Ah yes, I have heard a bit about you from my son", she kissed the girl's cheek.
"Thank you", Abbie said stiffly as she saw Emmet standing behind his mother. She did her best to avoid him as she slipped inside.
"Allow me", Emmet said placing his hands on Abbie's shoulders.
"Get your hands off me snake,"she nearly growled.
"Now Abigail", he said in a hushed tone removing her cape,"You should play nice, even if just for appearances sake."
"I have no desire to make any appearances with you", she slid away from his grasp,"Excuse me, but I am parched and would like a drink."
"Then I shall fetch it for you", he lifted her hand kissing it.
Abbie felt the bile build in the back of her throat, but forced herself to simply pull her hand away. She watched as Emmet disappeared into the crowd. Once she knew he was gone, she made for the back area of the house,"Excuse me", she said entering the kitchen.
"Can I help you?", a woman with mocha colored skin and kind brown eyes asked.
"I'm so sorry, I was wondering if you could point me to the stable area?"
"You sure Miss?", she looked at the young woman's attire.
"Yes, please", she looked over her shoulder,"I am looking for someone and I think he may be out there."
The woman nodded,"Right out the door and down the path. You can't miss it."
"Thank you", Abbie shook her hand and quickly fled from the kitchen.
Emmet came back to find Abbie gone from the spot where he had left her. He felt the flush of anger quickly fill his face,"Paul", he said spotting his cousin.
"Ah, Emmet, my weasel of a cousin", Paul glared at him.
"I assume you spoke with Mel, who spoke with Abigail", he replied.
"News travels quickly cousin", he sipped on the champagne in his hand.
"Have you seen Abigail? I went to fetch her a drink and she is gone."
"I can't say that I blame her", Paul replied.
"What I did or said may not have been appropriate, but it happened. She shouldn't be with him and you know it."
"That is none of your concern, it is hers."
"It is my concern if I had the intention of calling on her", he quipped.
"I had no idea what a cad you were Emmet. Leave Abbie alone if that's her wish."
"We'll see about her wishes", he slammed the cup on the table turning away from his cousin in search of Abbie.
"What was that?", Mel said resuming her spot next to Paul.
"My cousin having a fit over your sister", he answered slipping his arm around her,"Shall we dance?"
"Was he looking for her in that angered state?"
"Yes, but he has no clue where she is," he urged her towards the dancing crowd.
"Paul, we can't let him find her. You know where she will be", she looked at him, her eyes wide with fear.
"Come then", he led her from the room and out towards the back.
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Torn
Mar 28, 2012 7:39:24 GMT -5
Post by fallingn2ct on Mar 28, 2012 7:39:24 GMT -5
Ryan and Damian had finished grooming one of the horses when the door to the stable slid open.
"Abigial?", Ryan squinted into the darkness.
"Yes," she answered making her way to him.
"I have to fill the feed pails," Damian said heading towards the tack room to leave the couple.
"What are you doing out here?", Ryan looked at her,"You should be inside."
"I can't do this anymore Ryan", she said suddenly,"Paul's cousin thinking he has some sort of right to me, pretending like I'm not in love with someone, sneaking around. I....I.......I just can't!"
"Abbie, my love", he said gently,"Where did this come from?"
"It's everything!", she nearly sobbed feeling the weeks of lonliness and heartache beginning to unwravel,"Every time we're together I am happy beyond words and then when we have to part, it kills me. It hurts to know that I love you so and yet no one can know. Then there's Emmet, and he's accusing me and saying hurtful things."
"What did he say?", Ryan said sharply.
"He saw us this morning", she began,"When we parted ways and he threatened to tell my family. Asked if he should look for me in a stall in the barn, because of you. Insinuating I am anything less than a lady."
"As I knew you would be", Emmet strolled into the barn with a sneer.
"You'll be leavin' if you know what's good for you", Ryan said placing himself between Abbie and Emmet.
Emmet shook his head with a laugh,"See I would feel threatened but the matter of fact is, stable hand, that you are in my home and on my property. If anyone should be leaving, tis you."
"Not when you have threatened a young woman and put your hands on her."
"Aye, I did not harm her. Merely said I would bring the truth to light, it would be best for you both really."
"Abbie wants nothing to do with you!", Ryan nearly yelled,"Why must you torment her?"
"Because I am accustomed to getting what I want and well, what I want is her."
"She is not a piece of property or some sort of trophy!", Ryan lashed out with a closed fist connecting with Emmet's right cheek.
The punch sent Emmet off his feet and he could feel blood pool in his mouth. He quickly stood and glared towards Ryan,"Think about it stable hand, who has the money to make this a problem for you?"
"I don't care about your money", Ryan went for him again and the two fell to the ground. A blind rage had consumed him as he launched an assult on the young man below him. He could feel his fist connecting with his stomach and face. He took a few hits himself, but did what he could to block them.
"Stop it!", Abbie screamed,"Ryan, please!"
"Dear God!", Paul said as he and Melinda came into the dimly lit stable. He ran towards the two men as Melinda grabbed Abbie in a fierce hug,"That's enough now!", he said grabbing Ryan's shoulders and pulling him back.
"If you ever touch her or even speak to her again", Ryan raged at Emmet trying to break free of Paul's grasp.
Emmet rolled onto his side coughing and gasping for breath, blood coming from cuts on his face and his mouth,"You'll", he grabbed his stomach,"pay for this!", he stood and pulled a white handkerchief from his jacket pocket.
"Go on Emmet", Paul said angrily,"Before I let him finish you."
"This isn't over!"
"Any time, any place", Ryan growled.
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Torn
Mar 28, 2012 11:41:08 GMT -5
Post by fallingn2ct on Mar 28, 2012 11:41:08 GMT -5
"Ryan!", Abbie broke free from Melinda and rushed towards him,"Are you hurt?", she held his face in her hands.
"I'm fine", he sank down onto a bale of hay.
"Were you trying to kill him?", Paul asked dusting himself off.
"I may have had you not shown up", Ryan winced as Abbie dabbed at a cut over his eye.
"I may have let you", Paul grinned and eyed Melinda,"Mel, why don't you and I go back to the party? I'm sure my aunt will be very inquisitive as to why her son has been bloodied."
"What will you say?", Abbie looked at him.
"That he provoked someone he shouldn't have," he sighed as he saw the expression in her eyes,"Abigail, I will do everything I can. It would be best for Ryan not to be here."
"I'll help get him home", Damian appeared from the tack room.
"I'll help you",Abbie stood up,"Mel, please do your best with momma and aunt Margaret."
"I will Abbie", she hugged her sister,"Be safe", she kissed her cheek before allowing Paul to lead her out.
"Abbie, listen", Ryan said hissing against the pain in his rib cage,"Go back to the party. It will cause suspicion if you have disappeared."
"I can't leave you like this", she knelt by his side taking his hand.
"I'll be fine, Damian will help me home."
"Stop it, let me help you", she scolded lightly,"Please don't push me away right now."
"You're going to stick out like a sore thumb", he gently cupped her cheek in his palm.
"I'll manage", she smiled,"You have to let me take care of you."
"You're so stubborn", he winced in pain again.
"Come on then", Damian helped him up. Abbie put his other arm around her shoulders. They led him to the small cart that Damian had driven to the party, laying him in the back,"Lay down next to him and cover yourselves with the blanket in the back. Keep your heads down until I say", he clicked to the horse and they were moving.
"You know you shouldn't be doing this",Ryan said softly.
"Yes I should", Abbie replied,"I love you Ryan Kelly and regardless of wether or not you like it, I am going to take care of you."
"Your family will look for you," he argued.
"They can look, Mel and Paul know where I am. I'll make up excuses if needed."
"If Emmet's family summon the police, I don't stand a chance."
"You have witnesses."
"They have money."
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Torn
Mar 28, 2012 12:33:16 GMT -5
Post by fallingn2ct on Mar 28, 2012 12:33:16 GMT -5
Emmet hissed as the doctor swabbed the cuts on his face,"He'll pay, I swear it."
"You deserved it", Paul said leaning against the door frame,"You should have gotten worse and could have gotten worse."
"Why are you on that peasant's side?" he eyed his cousin as the doctor began the souchers on one of the cuts.
"Because unlike you cousin, he knows how to treat a woman. He may not have the means such as you and I, but he has class. He is a good man. What I don't understand is why you have become so obsessed with Abigail."
Emmet balled his fists as the pain seared with the stitching,"She's a challenge, cousin, she's fiery and doesn't know when to stop at times. I like a challenge, it may take a while to break her of those ways, but one must be persistant."
Paul shook his head,"You do not know the O'Sullivan women, nor do you know their hearts. Abigail is nothing like my Melinda. She is strong, stubborn, and willful. You shouldn't want to break her of that, you talk as if she were an animal that needed to be broken down."
"Ah, but she is like that."
"You are sorely misgiven about women my dear cousin", He said with a sigh,"You treat them as though they are nothing but property and something to claim as a prize. They are neither, you need to grow up."
Emmet looked at Paul with a seething anger,"Abigail O'Sullivan will be mine one way or another. Even if it means the end of that stable hand."
"Then I shall have to see it that neither of those events take place", he shot back the amber liquid in the glass he held and left the room.
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Torn
Apr 10, 2012 13:45:17 GMT -5
Post by fallingn2ct on Apr 10, 2012 13:45:17 GMT -5
"Lay still" Abbie ordered as she tended to Ryan's gradually swelling eye.
"You shouldn't be here", he argued despite the searing pain in his ribs and his shortness of breath.
"And where, pray tell, should I be?", she asked as she covered the cuts with an ointment. She soaked another cloth in an herb and water mixture and lay it over his ribs,"Does it hurt to breathe?", she brushed his hair way from his sweaty brow.
"Some what", he said squeezing her hand,"I should probably sleep, see if that will help."
Abbie sat on the edge of the tattered cot and held Ryan's hand as he dozed. Her heart was being torn in too many directions at once. The love and loyalty to her family held one part, but her love for Ryan held something much more sacred to her. She allowed herself the small joy of skimming her finger tips over the strong jaw line and lips. She had memorized his face, it was the face she saw in her dreams when they had been a part, she knew the way his arms felt, they had held her each night in those same dreams. If there was only a way to make her family see and understand that money nor stature mattered, that no amount of money would ever equal the amount of love in her heart for the man who now lay battered and bruised from a fight. She swiped at the tears that had slowly fallen through her lashes.
"You should be gettin' some sleep lass", George said coming into the small room.
"I'm fine, thank you George. I want to make sure he is okay through the night."
"Can I get ya a cup of tea then?"
"That would be lovely, thank you," she smiled and then turned back to Ryan as he stirred,"Shh, shhh, there my love," she said in a low tone placing a cool cloth across his brow. She sat with him and sipped the mug of tea that George brought her before bidding her good night. As the night deepened and the oil lamps burned down, her eyes grew heavy. She checked on the ointments and compresses over Ryan's wounds and then lay her head against the wall. As she started to drift off, she heard a lound bang and suddenly the door to the small apartment burst open,"George?", she called trying to cover Ryan.
"Not that one!", Emmet's voice carried through,"Where's Kelly?"
"What do ya want with him?", George asked. Abbie could see through the small opening in the door that a police officer had George pinned against the wall with a baton at his throat.
"He's a wanted man", the officer took over,"Where is he?"
"No, please!", Abbie screamed as two men burst into the small room, Emmet right behind them,"He's done nothing!", she threw herself across Ryan,"He's an injured man!"
"No more injured than I am", Emmet snarled.
"Sorry madam", an officer said,"Mr.Cahill's pressing charges for battery, Mr.Kelly is under arrest."
"You can't! Don't you see he's injured?", she argued keeping herself between the officer and Ryan.
"What's happening?", Ryan woke up and stiffened,"You're here to arrest me?", he winced in pain.
"Put him in chains, I'll take care of the girl", Emmet grabbed Abbie's arm pulling her away.
"No", she screamed,"Ryan, don't!", she fought against Emmet's arms.
"Abbie, shh shhh", Ryan gave her a gentle smile as the officers put chained cuffs around his wrists,"It'll be okay, love", he was hauled off the bed and slumped against the officer,"I am wounded as she said."
"Take him!", Emmet held the still squirming Abbie as Ryan was led away.
"Ryan, I love you", she sobbed.
"You have my heart Abigail", he gestured to the pendant she wore.
She watched as he was led away and out the door to the awaiting carriage. Her tears were an angry flood gate that had been opened,"You despicable creature!", she turned on Emmet slapping him hard across his already bruised face.
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Torn
Apr 12, 2012 14:25:08 GMT -5
Post by fallingn2ct on Apr 12, 2012 14:25:08 GMT -5
Emmet rolled his jaw and held Abbie tighter,"This can go however you want it to Abigail, but you have brought it on yourself. Remember that."
"Take your hands off 'er mate", George said from behind them.
"Stay where you are on the cops outside will take you too", he tugged Abbie with him,"We're leaving, give our regards to the prisioner."
"Get your hands off me", Abbie pulled against him.
"Your Aunt is waiting in the carriage Abigail, she was quite disturbed when I told her what you had been up too."
"You had no right", she finally pulled herself free,"How dare you!"
"It wouldn't have ended up like this if you had simply been honest with everyone."
"I owe you nothing", she spat holding up her skirts to avoid the mud.
"Abigail", Margaret said stepping out of the carriage.
"Aunt Margaret", she stopped and stared at the woman.
"Come along, your mother is worried", she took in her niece's dishelved look.
"Will he be coming with us?", she looked to Emmet.
"I think 'tis only appropriate", Margaret huffed,"He is the one who told us of your indiscretions after all."
Abbie felt the defeat settle into her as she trudged to the carriage. She sat numbly staring down at the floor, her fingers gently playing over the locket she wore. Her eyes hurt from lack of sleep and the tears that wouldn't seem to stop though she willed them away. With her tears she was letting Emmet & her aunt know that they had won. But they hadn't, they would never win. If there was a way to talk to her mother alone and make her understand, but would she understand. She was a woman who had once loved someone her family wouldn't approve of, but she married whom her parents expected her too.
"Clean yourself up", Emmet handed her a handkerchief.
"I don't want it", she refused to look up,"Let my mother see what you have done."
"Take it Abigail", Margaret ordered,"Your mother is upset enough, you don't want your appearance to make it worse."
Abbie swallowed her tears and glared at her aunt,"How could you let him do this? Allow him to handle me as if I were property? Do you care nothing for me? Or is it the money you worry over?"
"Stop being dramatic, Abigail," she returned the stare,"You have made your choices and now you face them."
"What are the terms?"
"What do you mean?", Margaret asked.
"There must be terms to this whole ordeal or you wouldn't have come along. Tell me, what do I have to do?"
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Torn
Apr 14, 2012 7:59:25 GMT -5
Post by fallingn2ct on Apr 14, 2012 7:59:25 GMT -5
The carriage pulled to a stop outside the house before Margaret spoke,"Tides have begun to turn down south, your father has sent word that you girls and your mother are to stay with me. However, you have decided to disgrace this family with your gallivanting around and I won't have it."
"What must I do?", Abbie gritted her teeth.
"Allow me to court you, followed by a quick marriage,"Emmet began,"Then your precious Ryan will be a free man."
"And if I refuse?" she said feeling her stomach begin to twist into knots of disgust.
"Ryan sails back to Ireland on the first ship", Margaret said with a smile,"That would be my preference, but Emmet seems to think you would rather he didn't."
"How long before my choice must be made?", she refused to let the tears of anger and exhaustion fall as she trained her eyes on Emmet.
"You will have two days", he replied with a glint of triumph in his eyes.
"Very well then", she said with a curt nod. She exited the carriage and climbed the steps wearily. The entire evening and its events weighing heavily on her every step.
"Abigail!", Madeline said as she threw open the door,"Are you hurt? Are you ill?", she fretted over her daughter.
"No momma", she answered timidly,"Tired is all."
"Sarah has your bed warmed and ready, I'll bring you tea," she looked to Margaret and Emmet as they entered the house,"Thank you both."
Abbie hid the look of hurt behind her hair as she climbed the long staircase to her room. How could her mother thank them? They had given her an impossible choice. Choose Emmet over Ryan, the sheer thought made her sick to her stomach. To think of him as her husband after all he had done, the way he had treated her. She fought back the urge to vomit and she closed the door behind her.
"Ms. Abigail", Sarah said gently,"We were awful worried 'bout you."
"I'm okay, Sarah, thank you", she sighed,"Could you help me out of this dress?"
"Of course", she helped her to get changed into a night dress,"Bed is all ready for you, nice and warm."
"Thank you, Sarah," she kissed her cheek,"You need sleep, please, I am fine."
"Thank you Ms. Abigail", she gave a nod of her head and closed the door quietly.
Abbie slipped beneath the warmed sheets and blanket, feeling her muscles and aches begin to unwind. What should her choice be? Send Ryan back to Ireland or give him his freedom and become a prisoner herself? The pain hammered at her temples as her mind swam.
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