I Will Be Married In The Morning

Her father's hand paused. "You would not be. He has promised to keep you happy."

"For how long?"

He sighed, exasperated. "Child, it is settled. It would be best you go put your belongings in order. As decided, you leave after the ceremony."

"Father_"

"I am busy." He dismissed her.

Beth left the room heartbroken, even more than she was before she stepped in. What had she been expecting? That he would finally heed her words and mind her thoughts and her feelings more than Lord Carlisle's words? That all could be forgiven?

She walked on, her feet carrying her until she was outside. Without much thought, Beth removed her shoes and stepped on the grass. It was moist from the dew and cold. And it offered freedom.

Lord Carlisle would never bind her, but Beth knew she would never really be free. Her title would bind her; her authority would restrain her. His status would overwhelm her. She raised her eyes to the sky. The stars were out and beautiful, hanging like a thousand diamonds on a dark