Waiting For My Real Life To Begin
by Laura Spudzmom
Chapter 07
Bella was shocked to realize, after a while, that she was having a wonderful time getting to know Julia and Jane.
They were both very warm and welcoming, not to mention genuine and she treasured that quality.
"Oh Isabella, I can't wait for you to join us for a ball!" Jane looked over at Julia.
"Jules, when do you think the next ball might be?" She then looked over to Bella, without letting her sister answer and whispered.
"I may even be able to attend this year! Mama said that she would speak to Papa! Oh! I simply can't wait!"
Bella laughed and looked at Julia who had an amused albeit exasperated expression on her face.
"Jane Ann Whitlock! Can you please calm yourself?! Goodness sister, you're going to go into fits if you're not careful! Not to mention you're being awfully rude to Isabella when you don't let her speak."
Bella watched as Jane wilted like a flower and her heart clenched a little bit for her. She leaned over to Julia just a bit.
"It's alright really. I love her exuberance. She's excited about everything and it's infectious! You almost can't help but be happy around her and I love that already."
Bella smiled at Jane and Julia, who also had a kind smile on her face.
"I bet it's impossible to be in a dark mood around Jane."
Jane was beaming now and Julia chuckled.
"You've certainly managed to describe our Jane's personality with precision Isabella. You may even rival our dear brother in his ability to analyze someones personality and he's a master at it."
Bella leaned back a bit in her seat. "Really?"
Jane nodded. "Oh my yes!" Then she looked around the room.
"Jules, where is our brother? He's supposed to be here. Oh, you simply must meet him Isabella! Perhaps Mama or Papa could make the introduction!"
She looked at her big sister. "Should I go find Mama and ask her Jules? Or Papa?"
Just then, Julia spotted her mother making one last circuit of the room accompanied by none other than her brother. She smiled at Jane.
"No need sister. I see Mama, and she is being escorted by our brother. They look to be making their way here."
Jane bounced a bit and looked at Bella. "Oh, they'll be here in minutes Isabella, and then you will meet our brother. I believe he will like you very much!" She smiled widely at that and looked to her sister.
"What do you think Jules?"
Julia nodded absently. She was still watching them and then her breath caught.
"Oh goodness. It looks as though William Braniff has joined them." She looked at Bella.
"William Braniff is the eldest son of a wealthy plantation owner. He is a very sought after suitor, but has remained disinterested in anyone for the past three seasons. I find it curious that he's joined Mama and Jasper in their rounds, although it does look as though he's in conversation with Jasper."
She shrugged a delicate shoulder and all three girls began watching the trio discreetly.
Bella's heart almost tripped as she took in Jasper as a human for the first time. He was very handsome, bordering on beautiful for a male. He was easily six feet tall, with broad shoulders, a strong chest and trim hips. She blushed as she took in his muscled legs that were showcased wonderfully in his superbly tailored trousers. God, he was gorgeous! He certainly didn't look like any sixteen year old that she had imagined he would.
His hair was a bit shorter than she was used to seeing on him but she imagined that was due to not being currently stuck in the army where haircuts were probably difficult to obtain. His face was softer in appearance too and as they drew closer she could see that his eyes were the grassy green color of his mothers.
She looked at Julia and Jane then and they were both watching her with smiles on their faces and knowing looks in their eyes.
She huffed a bit and waved a gloved hand in a dismissive fashion.
"Why are you two fairly leering at me?" She blushed guiltily as she fanned herself a bit.
"Has it grown warm in here of the sudden? Are you two warm? Perhaps I should take some air before dinner. Would you two care to accompany me?" She began to rise from her seat when she heard the voice of Mrs. Whitlock.
"Ah, Isabella! Good, you're still here."
Bella turned to face her and she continued.
"I would like to introduce you to Mr. William Braniff and also my son Mr. Jasper Whitlock. Boys, this is Miss Isabella Salvatore, lately of Virginia, now a resident of our fair city as her father has just purchased the old Lawson estate."
Bella curtsied to them in turn and William took her hand bowing over it and then peeking up at her.
"It is a supreme honor to meet you Miss Salvatore and may I just say that your beauty is unmatched. I look forward to an introduction to your father so that I may seek permission to court you."
Her breath hitched in surprise as her eyes widened a bit.
"It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance Mr. Braniff."
Her eyes cut quickly to Jasper and he was a study in controlled anger. He looked cool and in control, but Bella could see the little things such as the storm brewing in those green eyes and the slight tightening of his features.
"May I escort you in to dinner Miss Salvatore?"
She smiled at him politely. "I believe that I shall accompany my father this evening Mr Braniff, but I thank you for your offer."
Disappointment flashed in his eyes for a brief moment before he inclined his head. "Of course."
She looked at Jasper then and he smiled at her. She thought she could see something like relief in his eyes but it was gone in a second so she couldn't be sure.
Taking her gloved hand, he bowed over it and pressed a gentle kiss to the back before looking up at her, his gaze heated.
"Miss Salvatore, the pleasure is mine." His voice moved across her like silk and satin and she literally felt goosebumps rise over her body in response to it.
She had to fight the urge to close her eyes and savor it and she felt an immediate response in her center. She almost moaned at the sight and sound of him and her breath hitched at what he could do to her with one sentence from his gorgeous lips.
Almost snatching her hand away from him, she looked around frantically for her father. Finally spotting him, she hastily excused herself and practically ran to him.
Jasper watched her go with a wicked glint in his eyes. He now knew that she was his. It was only a matter of time and opportunity.
He heard his mother then. "Well! Jasper Whitlock, I don't know what you did to the poor girl to make her run off like her tail feathers were on fire, but you had better apologize like the gentleman I know you are."
He smiled at her. "Yes ma'am, I will."
William slapped him on the back then, smirking in triumph.
"Better luck next time Whitlock. Oh, and may the best man win."
~o0o~
Damon had been surprised when his trembling daughter had glued herself to his side just as dinner had been announced but he had escorted her into the dining room without comment, seating her and then himself.
He began to observe the glances that passed between his daughter and the young Mr. Whitlock and almost sighed in impatience. These things were so much easier in modern times and everything here, now seemed so tedious.
What did surprise him was the equally interested glances of one William Braniff. Now there was a wrinkle that he hadn't anticipated and from the looks of it, neither had young Whitlock.
He felt like cackling in glee. Now this could be fun.
Dinner was altogether pleasant and he looked forward to the challenge of the after dinner discussion he was sure would be arranged.
He wondered if young Mr. Whitlock would beg off in order to pursue his daughter or if he would succumb to duty and attend the discussion.
He didn't have to guess what Mr. Braniff would choose. He frowned a bit at that. The man, on the surface, was a gentleman, but Damon could detect an underlying current of a predatory nature and that worried him where his daughter was concerned.
He knew though, that if push came to shove, his daughter could defend herself. She was half vampire after all.
Maybe not as strong as a full vampire, but certainly stronger than a mortal man.
He would have to watch the situation closely though due to the fact that she could not compel anyone to forget any incident that may happen.
After dinner was over, as expected, the men were gathering in the study for brandy and conversation, the women in the parlor.
He escorted his daughter out and she quickly found herself in the company of the Whitlock girls which eased his mind somewhat.
And so it was with her smile of reassurance that he made his way to the library, ready to do some negotiating.
Bella watched her father go with a smile. He really had changed where she was concerned and she marveled at that. It really made her heart ache a bit for all of the years that they had missed out on, but she couldn't dwell on that now. They could only move forward and be grateful for what they had now.
Julia and Jane moved to either side of her taking an arm each and she smiled at them in question.
"Come outside with us to the garden Isabella. It's much too stuffy in here and it will be wonderful to take the air."
"You're right. That does sound refreshing."
She laughed as they tugged her along. "By all means, please lead on!"
Once well out into the garden they rounded on her.
"Alright Isabella, why did you run from our brother?"
Jane looked perplexed. "What did he do? I didn't see him do anything, but Mama said that he must apologize."
Bella looked down. How could she answer the question? She had no idea. She couldn't very well tell them the truth! That their brother, with one simple sentence, had completely overwhelmed her senses and she hadn't known how to handle it at that moment. She decided to go with a half truth.
"Well you see, he was just so…...he was so…." She huffed and sat on a bench. Then she peeked up at her two new friends and they were both grinning at her.
Julia spoke. "You fancy our brother! It's true isn't it?"
Bella gave them a tiny nod and they both squealed and giggled, Jane hopping around in a small circle.
"Oh how wonderful! You'll be our new sister! Oh, and we can plan the most beautiful wedding this town has ever seen! Oh Julia, we must start now! Mama will be so pleased Isabella! And oh goodness, think of the beautiful babies you'll have! Between you and my brother, they'll be the most beautiful children anyone has ever seen!"
Bella shot up off the bench, eyes wide as saucers.
"Jane! My goodness! We were just introduced and I practically ran from him and now you have us married with babies! I think you're getting a little ahead of things."
Little Jane had the good sense to look embarrassed and Bella hurried to console her.
She chuckled a bit. "Don't worry Jane, I'm not offended. Just slow down a bit. Maybe we should wait for an official courtship to happen before you have us residing in wedded bliss, hmm?"
Jane smiled and nodded, giving Bella a small hug.
"I'm sorry Isabella. I just get so excited and I like you so much already and you seem so perfect for him. That's all."
Julia crossed her arms over her chest and shot a look at her sister. "She's going to think the whole family is insane Jane, if you keep going.'
Bella laughed and shook her head. "No Julia, it's alright really. I'm not the type to be easily offended."
Julia huffed. "That's most fortunate for us considering the social gaffes my sister has committed this evening. If I tell Mama about this Jane, you won't see the light of day for a very long time, much less another social event any time soon."
Just then they heard their mother calling for them and they looked to Bella who waved a gloved hand.
"You two go ahead. I'd like to stay out here for a bit. I'll be along later.
"Alright Isabella. We'll see you in a bit!"
Bella sighed and began walking the path through the many plants and shrubs, the moonlight cutting through to light the way.
She thought about her reaction to Jasper earlier and goosebumps erupted again while a burst of excitement shot through her. He really was breathtaking and she looked forward to getting to know him as a person.
She never had that opportunity in her time after all. They had been staunchly kept apart and now she knew the real reason why. She was sure Alice had known. And if Alice had known, then odds are, Edward had known also.
This lead to her thinking about seeing Edward rushing up just as she had disappeared and a spike of fear shot through her chest at just what they had left behind for her poor uncle to deal with. She hoped with all her heart that the Cullen's would not seek retribution for what had happened to Alice. She would have to speak to her father about it and see what he thought they could do.
Coming back to herself, she looked around to see that she had wandered away from the house quite a distance so she turned to go back when she suddenly felt hands on her, pulling her into an alcove.
It was William Braniff, she could see, just before he leaned down to kiss her. Turning her head quickly she pushed against his chest.
"Mr. Braniff! Unhand me at once sir! My father will hear of this, you may be sure!"
"Isabella," he chuckled darkly, "what other reason would you have for being out here alone if not to entice me my lovely girl? And without a chaperone? I think that makes things abundantly clear my dear."
She realized her huge mistake and icy dread filled her. Certainly, she was strong enough to take care of this weasel but she couldn't compel him to forget that he'd just been handled by a young girl and she couldn't risk that. It very well might end in disaster.
Her mind raced as he was kissing his way down her neck to her collar bone.
She struggled again weakly and tried to appeal to his morals once again.
"Please Mr. Braniff. I have made a terrible mistake and my Papa is sure to punish me for it, but I did not mean to entice you. Please unhand me!"
She let loose the tears that really were genuine from her fear of screwing up this entire mission and they traced a path down her cheeks.
"Please, please let me go!" She let loose a small scream then and he snarled and slapped her.
"Quiet woman or I'll have to teach you to be quiet. Believe me, in time you'll learn."
"I don't believe you'll be teaching her anything anytime soon Braniff. Now unhand the lady and get off of Whitlock property and don't ever come back. You're no longer welcome here."
Bella whipped her head around and sobbed in relief at the sight of Jasper standing there poised for a fight.
"You want a fight Whitlock? Fine, I'll give you a fight. Whoever wins gets the girl."
Jasper removed his jacket and began rolling his sleeves up.
"You'll get your ass whooped tonight Braniff," he looked at Bella "pardon my course language Miss." He inclined his head at Bella and then turned back to Braniff. "But I'm not fighting over Miss Salvatore. I'll court her properly with her father's blessing, or I'll not court her at all. She isn't property to be fought over."
He barely had the words out when Braniff snarled and charged, both of them landing in a heap on the garden path.
Bella could see Braniff take a shot to the ribs just as he aimed a fist at Jasper's face.
Jasper dodged it just in time and rolled them over. From there, he proceeded to deliver on that "ass whooping" he had promised Braniff until the man called out that he yielded.
Jasper got up and offered a hand up to Braniff but the man spit on the ground and heaved himself up on unsteady legs.
"Now get off of Whitlock property and don't come back."
Braniff scowled. "Gladly, and you can keep the whore."
Jasper spun him around and knocked him out completely for that. Scooping up his jacket, he turned to Isabella.
"May I escort you back to the house Miss Salvatore?"
He held out an arm for her and she moved to take it.
"I would like to thank you Mr. Whitlock. You saved me from my foolishness."
To her utter surprise he turned to her then and actually looked a bit angry.
"I did indeed Miss. You don't know what he had in mind for you and I won't go into it. Just know that I will not be keeping this from your father. He needs to know there are some issues with you that he should take care of before you get yourself hurt or killed."
Bella was standing there with her mouth slightly open in shock, eyes wide. She could not believe the vehemence with which he spoke to her.
"Issues he needs to…" She trailed off as the words slowly soaked in.
She pulled her arm from his as the anger went from a simmer to a boil almost instantly, a dark scowl taking over her face as she looked at him.
"I am not a child to be reprimanded or chastised. How dare you imply such a thing?"
"I dare Miss because of the situation you just put yourself in and the possible outcome of it had I not chanced upon you when I did. You're much too delicate to hear the details of what he would have done, but some ladies never recover from such treatment as he had in mind. You should never have been that far from the house at such an hour and without a suitable escort and chaperone. It's just not done in polite society and there's a very good reason why it isn't. You shouldn't even be out here alone with me."
Bella knew he was right for the most part but couldn't get her modern day sensibilities to stay dormant long enough to concede his valid points. Her anger was too great at this point.
Drawing herself up to her full height, which was only to his shoulder, she stared him right in the eye.
"Well, at least that I can solve on my own Mr. Whitlock! Good evening!"
So saying, she stalked around him and marched her way back to the house, her father just exiting to come looking for her.
Damon took in the situation quickly, zeroing in on the fresh blood on both hands of Jasper Whitlock, some his own from his knuckles but most belonging to the other guy.
Then he took in the seething form of his daughter and he probably could have given anyone a pretty accurate summary of what happened.
Bella had been alone outside, gotten herself into a situation, been rescued by the chivalrous young Mr. Whitlock and then didn't like what he had to say to her about the situation afterwards. He had most likely been angry at her for putting herself in such an unacceptable situation and Damon hated to say it but he was right.
But now his petite daughter was madder than a wet hen and he had to defuse the situation some how for her sake. Once she cooled off, he was sure that she would come to regret her actions and anger this evening.
He hated to play the stern father, but the situation required it. It was the only way to recover from this social gaffe that was gaining more witnesses by the minute.
"Isabella Salvatore, what has happened?"
Freezing in her tracks, Bella saw the dark look on her father's face and knew that she had to play along here. She had really fucked up and she knew it. She just didn't want to admit it, and now her father, sharp-witted man that he is, was giving her the only out that was available to her; that of the contrite and chastised child.
She burst into tears that weren't entirely faked and threw herself into her father's arms, sobbing into his shirt.
"Oh Papa, it was terrible. He grabbed me and wouldn't let me go! I tried and tried to get away but he was much too strong for me, so I screamed out and then he slapped me and said terrible things to me and then Mr. Whitlock was there and he fought him and saved me from him Papa."
Damon held her away from him, looking into her face which was down-cast.
"Isabella, why were you out all alone in the first place? You know better, daughter."
To Damon's surprise, Julia and Jane Whitlock stepped forward from the small crowd that had formed.
"That's our fault Mr. Salvatore. We asked her to accompany us into the garden for some air and then our Mama called us in, and we left Isabella outside on her own. We should have brought her with us. Please accept our most sincere apologies."
Both girls looked thoroughly contrite and then Bella spoke up.
"No Papa, it's my fault for not accompanying them back inside. I knew better, but the night air was just so refreshing and I didn't want to go back inside just then. But it's not their fault!"
She looked imploringly now at a decidedly stern looking Thomas Whitlock.
Mr. Whitlock turned to two other men. "Would you two go and find the scoundrel that did this and bring him up to the house?" He turned to his son. "I assume that he is no longer conscious son?"
Jasper shook his head. "No sir, he is not. I left him back by the rose arbor."
Mr. Whitlock clapped his son on the back. "Good work son."
Damon turned to him, hand extended. "I thank you for saving my daughter young Mr. Whitlock. I don't know what I would do if she had come to more harm than what was already inflicted. Rest assured that the rules a young lady must live by will be reinforced this evening."
Thomas Whitlock nodded while looking at his daughters. "Yes, it seems that more than one young lady needs reminding this evening."
Bella turned to him. "No please Mr. Whitlock! It was entirely my fault! They did nothing wrong and I would hate to see them punished for something when the fault is mine alone."
Damon decided to intervene before this became yet another social mis-step on his daughter's part.
"Isabella, it is not our place to argue. The gentleman of the house has the facts and will act accordingly, just as I will with you. They are his responsibility as you are mine. Now come along daughter. We have imposed on our hosts long enough and I must see to you at home."
Hanging her head, she mumbled out. "Yes Papa."
Damon breathed a sigh of relief. The longer she continued to argue the points the worse the situation was becoming socially. He certainly didn't want things to get to a point where she was labeled headstrong and untrainable. He had seen that happen to some girls and it had ruined them socially which in this element of society, meant being declared unfit to be a wife.
Making their way through the Whitlock home, Damon paused in the foyer long enough to once again, convey his thanks for their hospitality and his gratefulness to Jasper for his actions on the part of his daughter.
"If there is ever anything that I can do for you, please don't hesitate to let me know."
Jasper grasped Damon's hand in a firm shake.
"I would like to call on you sometime tomorro w, if I may?"
"Of course. Would you care to come for breakfast? We may speak privately afterward and then go straight to your father's office as I have business there tomorrow. Is eight o'clock acceptable to you?"
Jasper nodded. "Yes sir. That would be most agreeable."
Damon smiled. "Splendid, I'll see you then. Good night."
~o0o~
Handing Bella into the carriage, he sighed out in relief. It would seem that young Jasper was not put off by Bella's less than acceptable display this evening.
Once they were underway, he looked at his daughter. "Are you alright Bella?"
She blew out a breath and her fists balled in her lap.
"You just can't imagine how hard it was not to hand that bastard his ass when he attacked me! And then to have to stand there and be chastised for everything like a small child….Gah!"
He didn't smirk at her frustration for once and she knew that meant a serious conversation was forthcoming.
"If you had simply followed the rules of etiquette Bella, you would not have been in that situation in the first place. Yes, you may ultimately be able to hand someone like Braniff his ass, but you would have compromised the whole reason we're here my darling daughter. You see how the Whitlock's live. They must uphold and function within the morals of Houston high society. Scandal can ruin an entire family in this era Bella, and that's something they cannot risk.
In order to snare and ultimately wed Jasper Whitlock, you must make yourself acceptable in the society in which they live. We knew it wouldn't be an easy task before we came here, but you must not make any more errors such as the one you made this evening. It would be devastating. And I'm not just referring to staying out without escort. I also refer to protesting against Mr. Whitlock when he spoke of correcting his daughters. You must not give the impression of being headstrong and argumentative Bella. Those are not qualities that are sought after in a southern society wife my dear. Those, as distasteful as they may be to you, are the facts."
She peeked up at him. "Couldn't you just compel him?"
Bella realized her huge mistake when she saw her father's eyes turn so cold they probably could have frozen fire.
She knew of his past and some of what had happened with the vampire Katherine after all, so what had possessed her to suggest such a thing she would never know. This just seemed to be her night for major fuck ups.
"I'm sorry Papa, I should have never suggested such a thing."
"No you shouldn't have. It makes me thankful that you don't have the ability, and that is something I never thought I would say Isabella. Never thought I would have to say."
The carriage came to a halt in front of their home and he wasted no time hopping out and handing her out.
He briskly walked her to the door and once inside, dropped his arm, turning his back on her. "Retire to your rooms Bella. I shall see you tomorrow evening."
With that, he stiffly made his way to his study, closing the door soundly.
Tears, hot and shameful, sprang into her eyes as she thought about what her thoughtless words had probably done to her father, and she ached to go to him, so that is what she did, come what may.
She saw him sitting in his darkened study by the window, staring absently out as he sipped his drink. He looked haunted and her heart cracked a bit at having done that to him.
She went to him then and knelt beside his chair, laying her head against his leg.
"Dad, please forgive me? I'm sorry, so sorry, for hurting you with my thoughtlessness. I love you so much and my heart is breaking with the thought that you are ashamed of me. Please don't hate me?"
She choked on a sob then and she buried her face in her folded arms and let the tears take her.
Reaching down, Damon drew his daughter to him in an embrace, rocking gently.
"Hey kid, it's okay." He ran a hand over her sweet smelling hair and sighed. "You just caught me off guard, that's all. I could never hate you. You are now the one being in this world that I love the most, believe it or not."
She sighed gratefully, her head against his chest.
"I really fucked up tonight."
He chuckled. "While you had some errors in judgement, none of it is so bad that it's beyond recovery. The young Mr. Whitlock is coming for breakfast after all." He gave her a squeeze.
She sighed and sat back on the floor. "Yeah, it could be to tell you just what a fuck up your daughter is and how you need to fix it. He seems very helpful like that."
"Hey, don't let your old man's pessimism creep into your personality now dear. It won't help the situation, at all.
Remember, we've come too far to give up now. You need sleep. Things will look better in the morning when you've had a good nights rest. That, or they'll be just as shitty, but you won't be as tired."
He smirked at her and she rolled her eyes.
"That was profound Dad. May I quote that on the next sampler that I do on a rainy day by the fire?"
He grinned. "Oh absolutely. Something to pass down to the grandkids."
She struggled up from the floor, nearly face planting before she was able to stand straight.
"No, I don't need a hand up, thanks anyway."
He smirked. "You looked like you had it, and if you hadn't I could have used the laugh."
He took a sip of his drink and she shot him a dark look.
"That's it. I'm outta here. Good night father."
He saluted her with his glass. "Good night daughter."
Bella was shocked to realize, after a while, that she was having a wonderful time getting to know Julia and Jane.
They were both very warm and welcoming, not to mention genuine and she treasured that quality.
"Oh Isabella, I can't wait for you to join us for a ball!" Jane looked over at Julia.
"Jules, when do you think the next ball might be?" She then looked over to Bella, without letting her sister answer and whispered.
"I may even be able to attend this year! Mama said that she would speak to Papa! Oh! I simply can't wait!"
Bella laughed and looked at Julia who had an amused albeit exasperated expression on her face.
"Jane Ann Whitlock! Can you please calm yourself?! Goodness sister, you're going to go into fits if you're not careful! Not to mention you're being awfully rude to Isabella when you don't let her speak."
Bella watched as Jane wilted like a flower and her heart clenched a little bit for her. She leaned over to Julia just a bit.
"It's alright really. I love her exuberance. She's excited about everything and it's infectious! You almost can't help but be happy around her and I love that already."
Bella smiled at Jane and Julia, who also had a kind smile on her face.
"I bet it's impossible to be in a dark mood around Jane."
Jane was beaming now and Julia chuckled.
"You've certainly managed to describe our Jane's personality with precision Isabella. You may even rival our dear brother in his ability to analyze someones personality and he's a master at it."
Bella leaned back a bit in her seat. "Really?"
Jane nodded. "Oh my yes!" Then she looked around the room.
"Jules, where is our brother? He's supposed to be here. Oh, you simply must meet him Isabella! Perhaps Mama or Papa could make the introduction!"
She looked at her big sister. "Should I go find Mama and ask her Jules? Or Papa?"
Just then, Julia spotted her mother making one last circuit of the room accompanied by none other than her brother. She smiled at Jane.
"No need sister. I see Mama, and she is being escorted by our brother. They look to be making their way here."
Jane bounced a bit and looked at Bella. "Oh, they'll be here in minutes Isabella, and then you will meet our brother. I believe he will like you very much!" She smiled widely at that and looked to her sister.
"What do you think Jules?"
Julia nodded absently. She was still watching them and then her breath caught.
"Oh goodness. It looks as though William Braniff has joined them." She looked at Bella.
"William Braniff is the eldest son of a wealthy plantation owner. He is a very sought after suitor, but has remained disinterested in anyone for the past three seasons. I find it curious that he's joined Mama and Jasper in their rounds, although it does look as though he's in conversation with Jasper."
She shrugged a delicate shoulder and all three girls began watching the trio discreetly.
Bella's heart almost tripped as she took in Jasper as a human for the first time. He was very handsome, bordering on beautiful for a male. He was easily six feet tall, with broad shoulders, a strong chest and trim hips. She blushed as she took in his muscled legs that were showcased wonderfully in his superbly tailored trousers. God, he was gorgeous! He certainly didn't look like any sixteen year old that she had imagined he would.
His hair was a bit shorter than she was used to seeing on him but she imagined that was due to not being currently stuck in the army where haircuts were probably difficult to obtain. His face was softer in appearance too and as they drew closer she could see that his eyes were the grassy green color of his mothers.
She looked at Julia and Jane then and they were both watching her with smiles on their faces and knowing looks in their eyes.
She huffed a bit and waved a gloved hand in a dismissive fashion.
"Why are you two fairly leering at me?" She blushed guiltily as she fanned herself a bit.
"Has it grown warm in here of the sudden? Are you two warm? Perhaps I should take some air before dinner. Would you two care to accompany me?" She began to rise from her seat when she heard the voice of Mrs. Whitlock.
"Ah, Isabella! Good, you're still here."
Bella turned to face her and she continued.
"I would like to introduce you to Mr. William Braniff and also my son Mr. Jasper Whitlock. Boys, this is Miss Isabella Salvatore, lately of Virginia, now a resident of our fair city as her father has just purchased the old Lawson estate."
Bella curtsied to them in turn and William took her hand bowing over it and then peeking up at her.
"It is a supreme honor to meet you Miss Salvatore and may I just say that your beauty is unmatched. I look forward to an introduction to your father so that I may seek permission to court you."
Her breath hitched in surprise as her eyes widened a bit.
"It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance Mr. Braniff."
Her eyes cut quickly to Jasper and he was a study in controlled anger. He looked cool and in control, but Bella could see the little things such as the storm brewing in those green eyes and the slight tightening of his features.
"May I escort you in to dinner Miss Salvatore?"
She smiled at him politely. "I believe that I shall accompany my father this evening Mr Braniff, but I thank you for your offer."
Disappointment flashed in his eyes for a brief moment before he inclined his head. "Of course."
She looked at Jasper then and he smiled at her. She thought she could see something like relief in his eyes but it was gone in a second so she couldn't be sure.
Taking her gloved hand, he bowed over it and pressed a gentle kiss to the back before looking up at her, his gaze heated.
"Miss Salvatore, the pleasure is mine." His voice moved across her like silk and satin and she literally felt goosebumps rise over her body in response to it.
She had to fight the urge to close her eyes and savor it and she felt an immediate response in her center. She almost moaned at the sight and sound of him and her breath hitched at what he could do to her with one sentence from his gorgeous lips.
Almost snatching her hand away from him, she looked around frantically for her father. Finally spotting him, she hastily excused herself and practically ran to him.
Jasper watched her go with a wicked glint in his eyes. He now knew that she was his. It was only a matter of time and opportunity.
He heard his mother then. "Well! Jasper Whitlock, I don't know what you did to the poor girl to make her run off like her tail feathers were on fire, but you had better apologize like the gentleman I know you are."
He smiled at her. "Yes ma'am, I will."
William slapped him on the back then, smirking in triumph.
"Better luck next time Whitlock. Oh, and may the best man win."
~o0o~
Damon had been surprised when his trembling daughter had glued herself to his side just as dinner had been announced but he had escorted her into the dining room without comment, seating her and then himself.
He began to observe the glances that passed between his daughter and the young Mr. Whitlock and almost sighed in impatience. These things were so much easier in modern times and everything here, now seemed so tedious.
What did surprise him was the equally interested glances of one William Braniff. Now there was a wrinkle that he hadn't anticipated and from the looks of it, neither had young Whitlock.
He felt like cackling in glee. Now this could be fun.
Dinner was altogether pleasant and he looked forward to the challenge of the after dinner discussion he was sure would be arranged.
He wondered if young Mr. Whitlock would beg off in order to pursue his daughter or if he would succumb to duty and attend the discussion.
He didn't have to guess what Mr. Braniff would choose. He frowned a bit at that. The man, on the surface, was a gentleman, but Damon could detect an underlying current of a predatory nature and that worried him where his daughter was concerned.
He knew though, that if push came to shove, his daughter could defend herself. She was half vampire after all.
Maybe not as strong as a full vampire, but certainly stronger than a mortal man.
He would have to watch the situation closely though due to the fact that she could not compel anyone to forget any incident that may happen.
After dinner was over, as expected, the men were gathering in the study for brandy and conversation, the women in the parlor.
He escorted his daughter out and she quickly found herself in the company of the Whitlock girls which eased his mind somewhat.
And so it was with her smile of reassurance that he made his way to the library, ready to do some negotiating.
Bella watched her father go with a smile. He really had changed where she was concerned and she marveled at that. It really made her heart ache a bit for all of the years that they had missed out on, but she couldn't dwell on that now. They could only move forward and be grateful for what they had now.
Julia and Jane moved to either side of her taking an arm each and she smiled at them in question.
"Come outside with us to the garden Isabella. It's much too stuffy in here and it will be wonderful to take the air."
"You're right. That does sound refreshing."
She laughed as they tugged her along. "By all means, please lead on!"
Once well out into the garden they rounded on her.
"Alright Isabella, why did you run from our brother?"
Jane looked perplexed. "What did he do? I didn't see him do anything, but Mama said that he must apologize."
Bella looked down. How could she answer the question? She had no idea. She couldn't very well tell them the truth! That their brother, with one simple sentence, had completely overwhelmed her senses and she hadn't known how to handle it at that moment. She decided to go with a half truth.
"Well you see, he was just so…...he was so…." She huffed and sat on a bench. Then she peeked up at her two new friends and they were both grinning at her.
Julia spoke. "You fancy our brother! It's true isn't it?"
Bella gave them a tiny nod and they both squealed and giggled, Jane hopping around in a small circle.
"Oh how wonderful! You'll be our new sister! Oh, and we can plan the most beautiful wedding this town has ever seen! Oh Julia, we must start now! Mama will be so pleased Isabella! And oh goodness, think of the beautiful babies you'll have! Between you and my brother, they'll be the most beautiful children anyone has ever seen!"
Bella shot up off the bench, eyes wide as saucers.
"Jane! My goodness! We were just introduced and I practically ran from him and now you have us married with babies! I think you're getting a little ahead of things."
Little Jane had the good sense to look embarrassed and Bella hurried to console her.
She chuckled a bit. "Don't worry Jane, I'm not offended. Just slow down a bit. Maybe we should wait for an official courtship to happen before you have us residing in wedded bliss, hmm?"
Jane smiled and nodded, giving Bella a small hug.
"I'm sorry Isabella. I just get so excited and I like you so much already and you seem so perfect for him. That's all."
Julia crossed her arms over her chest and shot a look at her sister. "She's going to think the whole family is insane Jane, if you keep going.'
Bella laughed and shook her head. "No Julia, it's alright really. I'm not the type to be easily offended."
Julia huffed. "That's most fortunate for us considering the social gaffes my sister has committed this evening. If I tell Mama about this Jane, you won't see the light of day for a very long time, much less another social event any time soon."
Just then they heard their mother calling for them and they looked to Bella who waved a gloved hand.
"You two go ahead. I'd like to stay out here for a bit. I'll be along later.
"Alright Isabella. We'll see you in a bit!"
Bella sighed and began walking the path through the many plants and shrubs, the moonlight cutting through to light the way.
She thought about her reaction to Jasper earlier and goosebumps erupted again while a burst of excitement shot through her. He really was breathtaking and she looked forward to getting to know him as a person.
She never had that opportunity in her time after all. They had been staunchly kept apart and now she knew the real reason why. She was sure Alice had known. And if Alice had known, then odds are, Edward had known also.
This lead to her thinking about seeing Edward rushing up just as she had disappeared and a spike of fear shot through her chest at just what they had left behind for her poor uncle to deal with. She hoped with all her heart that the Cullen's would not seek retribution for what had happened to Alice. She would have to speak to her father about it and see what he thought they could do.
Coming back to herself, she looked around to see that she had wandered away from the house quite a distance so she turned to go back when she suddenly felt hands on her, pulling her into an alcove.
It was William Braniff, she could see, just before he leaned down to kiss her. Turning her head quickly she pushed against his chest.
"Mr. Braniff! Unhand me at once sir! My father will hear of this, you may be sure!"
"Isabella," he chuckled darkly, "what other reason would you have for being out here alone if not to entice me my lovely girl? And without a chaperone? I think that makes things abundantly clear my dear."
She realized her huge mistake and icy dread filled her. Certainly, she was strong enough to take care of this weasel but she couldn't compel him to forget that he'd just been handled by a young girl and she couldn't risk that. It very well might end in disaster.
Her mind raced as he was kissing his way down her neck to her collar bone.
She struggled again weakly and tried to appeal to his morals once again.
"Please Mr. Braniff. I have made a terrible mistake and my Papa is sure to punish me for it, but I did not mean to entice you. Please unhand me!"
She let loose the tears that really were genuine from her fear of screwing up this entire mission and they traced a path down her cheeks.
"Please, please let me go!" She let loose a small scream then and he snarled and slapped her.
"Quiet woman or I'll have to teach you to be quiet. Believe me, in time you'll learn."
"I don't believe you'll be teaching her anything anytime soon Braniff. Now unhand the lady and get off of Whitlock property and don't ever come back. You're no longer welcome here."
Bella whipped her head around and sobbed in relief at the sight of Jasper standing there poised for a fight.
"You want a fight Whitlock? Fine, I'll give you a fight. Whoever wins gets the girl."
Jasper removed his jacket and began rolling his sleeves up.
"You'll get your ass whooped tonight Braniff," he looked at Bella "pardon my course language Miss." He inclined his head at Bella and then turned back to Braniff. "But I'm not fighting over Miss Salvatore. I'll court her properly with her father's blessing, or I'll not court her at all. She isn't property to be fought over."
He barely had the words out when Braniff snarled and charged, both of them landing in a heap on the garden path.
Bella could see Braniff take a shot to the ribs just as he aimed a fist at Jasper's face.
Jasper dodged it just in time and rolled them over. From there, he proceeded to deliver on that "ass whooping" he had promised Braniff until the man called out that he yielded.
Jasper got up and offered a hand up to Braniff but the man spit on the ground and heaved himself up on unsteady legs.
"Now get off of Whitlock property and don't come back."
Braniff scowled. "Gladly, and you can keep the whore."
Jasper spun him around and knocked him out completely for that. Scooping up his jacket, he turned to Isabella.
"May I escort you back to the house Miss Salvatore?"
He held out an arm for her and she moved to take it.
"I would like to thank you Mr. Whitlock. You saved me from my foolishness."
To her utter surprise he turned to her then and actually looked a bit angry.
"I did indeed Miss. You don't know what he had in mind for you and I won't go into it. Just know that I will not be keeping this from your father. He needs to know there are some issues with you that he should take care of before you get yourself hurt or killed."
Bella was standing there with her mouth slightly open in shock, eyes wide. She could not believe the vehemence with which he spoke to her.
"Issues he needs to…" She trailed off as the words slowly soaked in.
She pulled her arm from his as the anger went from a simmer to a boil almost instantly, a dark scowl taking over her face as she looked at him.
"I am not a child to be reprimanded or chastised. How dare you imply such a thing?"
"I dare Miss because of the situation you just put yourself in and the possible outcome of it had I not chanced upon you when I did. You're much too delicate to hear the details of what he would have done, but some ladies never recover from such treatment as he had in mind. You should never have been that far from the house at such an hour and without a suitable escort and chaperone. It's just not done in polite society and there's a very good reason why it isn't. You shouldn't even be out here alone with me."
Bella knew he was right for the most part but couldn't get her modern day sensibilities to stay dormant long enough to concede his valid points. Her anger was too great at this point.
Drawing herself up to her full height, which was only to his shoulder, she stared him right in the eye.
"Well, at least that I can solve on my own Mr. Whitlock! Good evening!"
So saying, she stalked around him and marched her way back to the house, her father just exiting to come looking for her.
Damon took in the situation quickly, zeroing in on the fresh blood on both hands of Jasper Whitlock, some his own from his knuckles but most belonging to the other guy.
Then he took in the seething form of his daughter and he probably could have given anyone a pretty accurate summary of what happened.
Bella had been alone outside, gotten herself into a situation, been rescued by the chivalrous young Mr. Whitlock and then didn't like what he had to say to her about the situation afterwards. He had most likely been angry at her for putting herself in such an unacceptable situation and Damon hated to say it but he was right.
But now his petite daughter was madder than a wet hen and he had to defuse the situation some how for her sake. Once she cooled off, he was sure that she would come to regret her actions and anger this evening.
He hated to play the stern father, but the situation required it. It was the only way to recover from this social gaffe that was gaining more witnesses by the minute.
"Isabella Salvatore, what has happened?"
Freezing in her tracks, Bella saw the dark look on her father's face and knew that she had to play along here. She had really fucked up and she knew it. She just didn't want to admit it, and now her father, sharp-witted man that he is, was giving her the only out that was available to her; that of the contrite and chastised child.
She burst into tears that weren't entirely faked and threw herself into her father's arms, sobbing into his shirt.
"Oh Papa, it was terrible. He grabbed me and wouldn't let me go! I tried and tried to get away but he was much too strong for me, so I screamed out and then he slapped me and said terrible things to me and then Mr. Whitlock was there and he fought him and saved me from him Papa."
Damon held her away from him, looking into her face which was down-cast.
"Isabella, why were you out all alone in the first place? You know better, daughter."
To Damon's surprise, Julia and Jane Whitlock stepped forward from the small crowd that had formed.
"That's our fault Mr. Salvatore. We asked her to accompany us into the garden for some air and then our Mama called us in, and we left Isabella outside on her own. We should have brought her with us. Please accept our most sincere apologies."
Both girls looked thoroughly contrite and then Bella spoke up.
"No Papa, it's my fault for not accompanying them back inside. I knew better, but the night air was just so refreshing and I didn't want to go back inside just then. But it's not their fault!"
She looked imploringly now at a decidedly stern looking Thomas Whitlock.
Mr. Whitlock turned to two other men. "Would you two go and find the scoundrel that did this and bring him up to the house?" He turned to his son. "I assume that he is no longer conscious son?"
Jasper shook his head. "No sir, he is not. I left him back by the rose arbor."
Mr. Whitlock clapped his son on the back. "Good work son."
Damon turned to him, hand extended. "I thank you for saving my daughter young Mr. Whitlock. I don't know what I would do if she had come to more harm than what was already inflicted. Rest assured that the rules a young lady must live by will be reinforced this evening."
Thomas Whitlock nodded while looking at his daughters. "Yes, it seems that more than one young lady needs reminding this evening."
Bella turned to him. "No please Mr. Whitlock! It was entirely my fault! They did nothing wrong and I would hate to see them punished for something when the fault is mine alone."
Damon decided to intervene before this became yet another social mis-step on his daughter's part.
"Isabella, it is not our place to argue. The gentleman of the house has the facts and will act accordingly, just as I will with you. They are his responsibility as you are mine. Now come along daughter. We have imposed on our hosts long enough and I must see to you at home."
Hanging her head, she mumbled out. "Yes Papa."
Damon breathed a sigh of relief. The longer she continued to argue the points the worse the situation was becoming socially. He certainly didn't want things to get to a point where she was labeled headstrong and untrainable. He had seen that happen to some girls and it had ruined them socially which in this element of society, meant being declared unfit to be a wife.
Making their way through the Whitlock home, Damon paused in the foyer long enough to once again, convey his thanks for their hospitality and his gratefulness to Jasper for his actions on the part of his daughter.
"If there is ever anything that I can do for you, please don't hesitate to let me know."
Jasper grasped Damon's hand in a firm shake.
"I would like to call on you sometime tomorro w, if I may?"
"Of course. Would you care to come for breakfast? We may speak privately afterward and then go straight to your father's office as I have business there tomorrow. Is eight o'clock acceptable to you?"
Jasper nodded. "Yes sir. That would be most agreeable."
Damon smiled. "Splendid, I'll see you then. Good night."
~o0o~
Handing Bella into the carriage, he sighed out in relief. It would seem that young Jasper was not put off by Bella's less than acceptable display this evening.
Once they were underway, he looked at his daughter. "Are you alright Bella?"
She blew out a breath and her fists balled in her lap.
"You just can't imagine how hard it was not to hand that bastard his ass when he attacked me! And then to have to stand there and be chastised for everything like a small child….Gah!"
He didn't smirk at her frustration for once and she knew that meant a serious conversation was forthcoming.
"If you had simply followed the rules of etiquette Bella, you would not have been in that situation in the first place. Yes, you may ultimately be able to hand someone like Braniff his ass, but you would have compromised the whole reason we're here my darling daughter. You see how the Whitlock's live. They must uphold and function within the morals of Houston high society. Scandal can ruin an entire family in this era Bella, and that's something they cannot risk.
In order to snare and ultimately wed Jasper Whitlock, you must make yourself acceptable in the society in which they live. We knew it wouldn't be an easy task before we came here, but you must not make any more errors such as the one you made this evening. It would be devastating. And I'm not just referring to staying out without escort. I also refer to protesting against Mr. Whitlock when he spoke of correcting his daughters. You must not give the impression of being headstrong and argumentative Bella. Those are not qualities that are sought after in a southern society wife my dear. Those, as distasteful as they may be to you, are the facts."
She peeked up at him. "Couldn't you just compel him?"
Bella realized her huge mistake when she saw her father's eyes turn so cold they probably could have frozen fire.
She knew of his past and some of what had happened with the vampire Katherine after all, so what had possessed her to suggest such a thing she would never know. This just seemed to be her night for major fuck ups.
"I'm sorry Papa, I should have never suggested such a thing."
"No you shouldn't have. It makes me thankful that you don't have the ability, and that is something I never thought I would say Isabella. Never thought I would have to say."
The carriage came to a halt in front of their home and he wasted no time hopping out and handing her out.
He briskly walked her to the door and once inside, dropped his arm, turning his back on her. "Retire to your rooms Bella. I shall see you tomorrow evening."
With that, he stiffly made his way to his study, closing the door soundly.
Tears, hot and shameful, sprang into her eyes as she thought about what her thoughtless words had probably done to her father, and she ached to go to him, so that is what she did, come what may.
She saw him sitting in his darkened study by the window, staring absently out as he sipped his drink. He looked haunted and her heart cracked a bit at having done that to him.
She went to him then and knelt beside his chair, laying her head against his leg.
"Dad, please forgive me? I'm sorry, so sorry, for hurting you with my thoughtlessness. I love you so much and my heart is breaking with the thought that you are ashamed of me. Please don't hate me?"
She choked on a sob then and she buried her face in her folded arms and let the tears take her.
Reaching down, Damon drew his daughter to him in an embrace, rocking gently.
"Hey kid, it's okay." He ran a hand over her sweet smelling hair and sighed. "You just caught me off guard, that's all. I could never hate you. You are now the one being in this world that I love the most, believe it or not."
She sighed gratefully, her head against his chest.
"I really fucked up tonight."
He chuckled. "While you had some errors in judgement, none of it is so bad that it's beyond recovery. The young Mr. Whitlock is coming for breakfast after all." He gave her a squeeze.
She sighed and sat back on the floor. "Yeah, it could be to tell you just what a fuck up your daughter is and how you need to fix it. He seems very helpful like that."
"Hey, don't let your old man's pessimism creep into your personality now dear. It won't help the situation, at all.
Remember, we've come too far to give up now. You need sleep. Things will look better in the morning when you've had a good nights rest. That, or they'll be just as shitty, but you won't be as tired."
He smirked at her and she rolled her eyes.
"That was profound Dad. May I quote that on the next sampler that I do on a rainy day by the fire?"
He grinned. "Oh absolutely. Something to pass down to the grandkids."
She struggled up from the floor, nearly face planting before she was able to stand straight.
"No, I don't need a hand up, thanks anyway."
He smirked. "You looked like you had it, and if you hadn't I could have used the laugh."
He took a sip of his drink and she shot him a dark look.
"That's it. I'm outta here. Good night father."
He saluted her with his glass. "Good night daughter."
DISCLAIMER: Twilight and its inclusive material is copyright to Stephenie Meyer. Original creation, including but not limited to plot and characters, is copyright to the respective authors of each story. No copyright infringement is intended.