Title: Arranged Marriage!!
Author: Eternal Phoenix 
Email: Eternal_Phoenix@onebox.com 
Disclaimer: All these characters don't belong to me and I hope that you won't sue me for using them. 

A girl raced across the field on a black stallion. She was galloping at a breakneck speed. Trying to escape her life. It was so restricting. All the things she could and couldn't do. The clothes she had to wear. The air she had to put on, one of a prim and proper miss. She was sick to death of it. She wanted to live. She didn't want to be coddled and cosseted like some piece of rare porcelain. She wasn't frail, and she certainly didn't need a nursemaid like some people thought. The balls her mother made her go to were tedious and boring. The men were worse, fussing and prancing like peacocks thinking that they could make her like them. What a waste of perfectly good time those things were. She's rather be out looking at stars of climbing through the forest. Sometimes she truly wished she had been born a boy. They had so much more freedom, they did whatever they wanted. She wanted to be like that, free as a bird with no chains or restrictions. As she reined her horse in at a cliff she looked out at the beautiful scenery before her. Mountains, hills, valleys. An endless expanse of green. This was the only time she felt like herself. Riding over her family's land and looking about all the forests. Seeing the animals moving around and the river glistening from the sun. It wouldn't last though, not after two weeks from now. How could they do this? How could they dare to arrange her life to suit them? Not even caring what she wanted. It was HER life, but they had done it anyway. Promised her to someone she'd never met. This may have worked out for them but it definitely would not for her. They'd probably set her up with some pansy that would simper and pout. She hated those kind of men. She also disliked heavy-handed ones that kept her at home like some kind of pet. She would never submit to that kind of treatment. She slowly headed back toward the house to enjoy what little time she had left. This was akin to being sentenced to death. Her freedom was her most cherished possession. Having it taken away was like being shut away in prison. The rest of her life would be nothing but that. She reined up at the from of her house and gave the reins of the horse to the groom. "Serena! Where have you been? He's here!" Her mother shouted as she came down the steps to meet her daughter. "Who mother?" Serena asked placatingly. "The Marquis! You're not dressed or anything. Oh dear, what will he think?" "Honestly mother I couldn't care less." Serena growled. "But you're in pants!" "Mother, it's 1853, women aren't confined to dresses anymore." "Well it's proper to wear one and the girls who wear pants are nothing more than commoners." She trailed off as she followed her daughter into the foyer. "Well it can't be helped. I suppose I'll have to see him like this." Serena replied nonchalantly. 
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Darien, the Marquis of Westhaven, looked up as the door to the foyer where he was waiting opened. He saw the lady of the manor come in with an uneasy smile on her face. He wasn't looking forward to meeting her daughter. She would most likely be mousy and quiet like her mother. "Sire, she'll be here in a minute." "Thank you madam." "Mother, I'm right here." Serena replied as she entered the room to see her newest trial. "As you can see Serena wasn't expecting anyone. I hope you will excuse her appearance." Her mother said with the same uneasy smile on her face. Darien looked past Mistress Tsukino toward her daughter. She was surprised to see a beautiful woman in riding breeches, leather boots, and a loose-fitting white shirt. Her blond hair floated slightly around her and her blue eyes sparkled with defiance and anger. The only reason he had agreed to this marriage was because it had been one of the wishes of his late grandfather. Serena looked at the man who she would be spending the rest of her life with. He was handsome, she would give him that but she would never give him anything else. Her love, life, trust, understanding would never be entrusted to him. Her ire surged up even more that he could sit there so calmly and not be at all remorseful about what he was doing to her. "I'd like to talk to her alone if you would madam." He said giving a pointed stare to the other lady in the room. Serena's mother obeyed as she had been taught to do. When she had left Darien looked toward the girl who was still standing by the door. "Why don't you sit down?" Darien offered, although it struck him as strange that he should be asking her in her own home. "I'd rather not." She answered, shooting daggers at him with her eyes. "I can understand that you are angry at this so-called arrangement. . ." Darien started. "That's putting it mildly." Serena hissed. "Well I suggest you get used to the idea and make the best of it." Darien sighed. "Over my dead body. You're not going to sit there and ask me to resign myself to having my life taken away! I won't do it! I'm not going to make this easy for you peacocks who think you can!" Serena screamed furiously. She ran out of the room, up the stairs and to her room. 
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Darien heard the girl's door slam upstairs and sighed with frustration. No matter what the girl thought there was no way she could get out of the marriage. Should she try she'd be an outcast from society and her family would cast her out. Darien again felt a tremendous amount of guilt for what she was forcing on this girl. They would work it out and live together at least peacefully. The door to the foyer opened and Darien again had to speak to the mistress of the house. "I'm so sorry for what Serena just did Sire. I hope that you didn't take any offense." She said. Darien wondered where Serena's father was. Surely if she had been raised with one she wouldn't be acting so rudely. "There's nothing to apologize for Mistress Tsukino, I can fully understand why your daughter did what she did." Darien amended. He picked up his hat and coat and prepared to leave. "I hope that this will work out." He said as he walked out the door. 
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Two weeks later Serena stood stiffly resplendent by Darien's side in the church as she reluctantly said her vows. She didn't smile but she did cry. The tears streamed down her face as she felt her life slowly slipping out of her grasp. When Darien lifted her veil his heart was struck with pain as he saw the look of sorrow in Serena's eyes. He gently kissed her on the cheek feeling the rose petal softness of her skin against his lips. He tucked her arm in the crook of his and led her back down the aisle. There would be no reception because Serena would not have been able to put up a happy front for any of the very little well-wishers. Instead, the couple headed straight for the carriage they would take to Darien's manor. 
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 Serena went straight to the room where she would live during her marriage to Darien. It was an extremely beautiful room. Everything was done in her favorite color, blue. There was an ice blue coverlet for the bed and a matching canopy and curtains that would offer Serena some kind of privacy while she was sleeping. The carpet was a darker cerulean blue. There was white furniture to compliment the blue decor and make the room seem more livable. Serena had resigned herself to being at least civil to her husband. As if he was some stranger visiting. She still didn't like the fact that she had been forced into this. "I had hoped that the room would make up for a little of your anger towards me." Darien said as he stood in Serena's doorway. Serena whirled in surprise and her eyes widened at the picture he made. His first three buttons on his shirt were loosened and his sleeves were rolled up. His cravat was untied and hung loosely around his neck. Serena's heart skipped a beat but she told herself it was only from anger. "It's beautiful." Serena replied. "Yes it is." Darien said, not really meaning the room, seeing as how he had never even looked at it. "This still does not make up for what has happened. Why did you do this?" Serena asked, wanting to know why he had chosen her. "I have my reasons." Darien answered her. It may have been Darien's grandfather's wish for them to marry, it was only because Serena's father was slowly gambling away their family's money. His grandfather had wanted Serena taken care of. He had met her once when she was little and she had touched his heart. He didn't ever want to have her forced into working because she needed provisions for her family to survive. So he had made arrangements for her. His grandson needed someone to love and Serena needed a protector. Not that she would admit it. "That's not an answer." Serena replied, her eyes narrowed trying to figure him out. "I'm not obligated to tell you so I choose not to. Have a good night." Darien called as he turned around and went out of the room. The one request his grandfather had made was never to tell her about what was happening in her home. She would be crushed if she found out. 
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 Serena paced her room that night for an hour until she was interrupted when her meal came. She was angry because he wouldn't tell her why he had picked her. She was angry over the whole situation. Yes, he had shown some thoughtfulness in the way he had ordered her room decorated, but thoughtfulness is not something that she could spend the rest of her life remembering. It surely didn't make up for how he had totally disregarded her feelings in the matter of their marriage. She was so mad she could spit. There came a knock at her door and when she called for the person to enter a maid stepped in with curly red hair and a traditional maid's uniform. The girl timidly stepped inside the room in the face of her new mistress' anger. "Hello. . .m. . .mistress my. . .my n. . .name is M. . .molly." "Hello Molly, my name is Serena. Please don't be afraid. I'm just angry at my situation." Serena said, smiling at the girl. "I just wanted to introduce myself. I'm going to be your ladies maid." Molly said as she gave a slight bow. "Well okay, it's pretty late, shouldn't you be a home right now?" Serena asked. "The marquis instructed me to be here so that I could help you unpack and get settled." Molly replied. "I don't need any help. By all means go home and get some rest." Serena urged. "Thank you. You're very kind." Molly answered as she left the room. Serena went to bed that night and slept restlessly. She wouldn't find peace in her dreams that night. 
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 The had been living together for a couple of weeks in total misery. Neither talked to the other except in regular conversation two strangers would have. They talked about weather and the latest story on the gossip mill but nothing else. Darien was currently on a business trip to France where he would be selling the wine he harvested and brewed. It was some of the best in England and had made him a very rich man. Serena had been walking around the house all week exploring the place where she now lived. The manor was three stories high with various rooms. It had beautiful gardens with thousands of flowers. There were vast, stretching pastures that she could ride across on Obsidian, her stallion. Serena had gone out on many rides and was enjoying one presently when she came upon a stream. On impulse she decided to go in. There was a stream at her house that she always used to go in to swim and wade. Obsidian knew the routine. He shielded her while she stripped down to her bloomers and chemise. Serena took the saddle and bridle off of him so that he could swim with her and she dove in. Serena swam up and down the stream, relaxing as her arms pulled her through the water. When she was fully relaxed she pulled herself on the back of Obsidian and let him take her to the shore where she lay down exhausted. Her clothes dried after a while and she slipped back into her dress. She put Obsidian's saddle back on and rode back to the manor just in time to see Darien's carriage pulling up in the drive. Darien looked around as he heard hoof beats behind him. He saw Serena riding up on her horse. Delight raced through him as he saw her for some reason. He had bought her some gifts from France because he had noticed that her wardrobe was lacking. She didn't have enough dresses. A lady so beautiful should have more. "Welcome back Darien." Serena said as she devoured the sight of him with her eyes. Each had missed the other because of some unknown reason. Serena rode toward the stables and handed her horse over to the groom. She turned to see Darien directing several servants with boxes to go different places. Serena went to her room and gasped when she opened her door. There were boxes everywhere and maids were putting things away in drawers and closets. "I noticed that you didn't own as extensive a wardrobe as I wanted you to." Darien whispered in her ear as he came up behind her. Serena craned her neck around to find herself face to face with him. "Thank you." She said as she almost melted into a puddle of good from his questing gaze. Darien saw Serena lick her lips and he focused on them wanting at that moment nothing more than to kiss her. He moved to do so but Serena pulled away as she noticed a box on her bed that seemed to be moving. Her curiosity aroused, she walked toward her bed and started to unwrap the box. When she lifted the top she saw a tiny gray kitten with a pink bow tied around its neck playing with a bell. "Oh how sweet!" Serena cried as she gently picked it up and cradled it to her. "Did you get her?" She asked Darien as she turned around to see him smiling. All he could do was nod as Serena ran over and gave him a hug totally forgetting who he was. Darien was amazed that she could be so happy about a simple kitten after he had given her everything else she could possibly desire. It was as if his money didn't matter at all to her. The average girl of her station would exclaim over the clothes and jewelry, play with the kitten for a few minutes and then reject it. She pulled away from him and sat down on her bed to play with the cat. "Thank you Darien, she's so beautiful." Serena said. When she received no answer she looked up to see that he was gone. Serena left the kitten who she had dubbed Smoky on her bed and went to look through all the things Darien had bought her. There were a number of day dresses, and three ball gowns. One was a light silvery blue that had an empire waist with a slight train that drug a foot behind her when she tried it on. The second one was pure white silk with a flowing skirt. This dress had a plunging neckline that stopped just in time to be modest. It had a matching silk and fur wrap with white satin high heeled slippers to match. The third one was a light mint green that had long sleeves with frothy lace at the cuffs. This one had several petticoats that Serena would wear under to give the dress a bell shape. Darien in his thoughtfulness had even bought her a pair of boys trousers and white shirts for when she went riding, and even a new pair of boots. Serena quickly changed into one of her new dresses and went downstairs for lunch. This one was ice blue lace with a cotton underskirt. Her hair was put up in a bun with little tendrils falling and curling down from it. She looked stunning and the expression on Darien's face when she stepped into the dining room confirmed it. Serena took a seat at the end of the table opposite Darien just as the cook was bringing out the meal. It was a quiet dinner, Serena and Darien just enjoying the company of each other. 
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 Serena woke up early in the morning a couple weeks later and put her new riding outfit on so she could go for a short ride. She left just as Darien was coming downstairs to eat breakfast. All he heard was the clattering of hooves on the drive as she left. He was curious as to where she was going so he asked his butler. "Kevin, where does she go when she goes out riding?" He asked. "She goes all over the place but I heard her say that her favorite spot was the little creek down by the meadow." He said as he continued to arrange the silver in a cherrywood chest. "Maybe I'll join her." Darien replied, thinking it would be nice to get to know Serena a little better. 
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 Serena stroked through the water of the creek in the underclothes she had brought along. Her relaxation was disturbed however by the sound of someone crashing through the bushes. She whistled to call Obsidian over and saw Darien glaring angrily at her. "I can't believe you." He said with deadly calm. "What?" Serena asked confused. "You came out here unescorted to swim in next nothing. You have to tell me when you do things like this so I can give you permission." Darien raged not even close to noticing how angry Serena was getting. "Do you have any idea what kind of criminals or villains could be out here just waiting to snatch you up? It's not safe and you didn't even think of that!" Darien snapped. "Shut up! I don't want to hear it! Did you ever think that I don't care. I'd welcome being kidnapped right now, it's better than staying here! I don't have to ask your permission for anything. It may say you're my husband on a paper but I don't believe it! I'll never ask your permission for anything because you don't own me! I can make judgments for myself and should you ever think that you can do it for me you'll find out otherwise." Serena screamed at him trying to get her point across. As Serena had been yelling these things she had been dressing behind a bush. Now she ran to her horse and climbed on bareback urging Obsidian to run as fast as he could back towards the manor. She had left her saddle behind for the sole purpose of slowing Darien down because he would have to take it back. Serena dropped her horse off at the stable and angrily strode to her room where she locked her door and paced the floor while her anger ran rampant. She heard the slamming of the front door as Darien arrived and waited for him to be banging on her door, but he never did. 
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Darien stormed into his office and poured himself a drink from the side bar near his desk. He downed it and fell back into the chair beside his desk. He stewed as he kept thinking over what Serena had said earlier. The fact that she had been swimming in that creek withour an escort was unacceptable. He would have to do something about it and he knew exactly what. She may not ever concede that he was her husband but she was still under his protection and he was obligated to make sure she stayed safe. Darien strode into the dining room ready to explain everything he had been thinking but he saw that Serena was just finishing her meal. He just stared at her as she cleared her plate and gave it to the house keeper. She walked by him not even looking at him once as she went back up to her room. Darien sighed as he sat down to ear wondering when Serena was going to realize that she could no more help her situation than a mule stuck in quicksand. Divorce was totally out of the question in these days. Not to mention that he was fulfilling his promise to his grandfather. 
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The next day Serena woke up later than usual because she had tossed and turned all night thinking about the argument she'd had with Darien earlier. Serena went out to the stables so that she could check on her horse. She felt guilty that she hadn't even stayed around to see how he was doing after she had gotten back last night. When she entered the stable she noticed that the boy who kept them was looking at her guiltily. She wondered why he was looking at her that way and just shrugged it off. As she came to his stall Serena noticed that Obsidian was more restless than usual. She stroked his head where it was hanging over the door and talked softly to him to try to soothe him. As she reached for the bolt to open the door she encountered a bigger piece of cold, hard metal. She looked down and her eyes opened in shock. there was a gif iron padlock on the bolt so that only the person with the key could open it up. "Tobias!" She called the stable hand, not even hesitating to find out what was going on. "Yes Mistress, what would you like?" He asked as he rushed up to where she was standing. "What is the meaning of this?" She asked as she gestured to the lock. "The master said that we had to lock him up. I don't know why. I'm sorry mistress." He replied. "Thank you Tobias." Serena replied. She sharply turned around and ran towards the house. She knew that darien was in his office and she intended to take this up with him immediately. 
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Darien heard the front door slam and thought nothing of it. That was until the door to his office was thrown open with such a force that it crashed against the wall. "How dare you!!" She yelled at him as she strode over to his desk and placed both hands on either side of his desk, leaning down and getting in his face. "How dare I what?" Darien asked even though he knew exactly why she was here. "You know damn well what I'm talking about." Serena replied. "You locked up my horse, a thing that you seemed to have forgottend oesn't even belong to you." Serena whispered harshly an angry glitter in her eye. "He won't be realeased until you learn to listen to me. I'm the master of this house and what I say goes." Darien replied calmly. "Snowball's chance in hell I'll listen to you. You may be the master of this house but you're not the master of me and you never will be!" Serena yelled as she stormed out of the room. Serena once again headed toward the stables. She got there and didn't even seek out Tobias to help her saddle a horse. Instead she grabbed a saddle and put it on Darien's hose Lightning. She climbed on the horse that ws known for its speed before she was even out of the stable. The only thing Darien saw when he ran out of the house was his horses' tail disappearing around a bend. He couldn't believe that she had taken his horse! He couldn't believe that Tobias had let her take it! He would have to talk to him and see how he had let that happen. 
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Serena smiled smugly as she raced along on Lightning. She wondered what kind of punishment Darien would think up and try to enforce now that she had pulled this. Whatever it was she was sure that she could get out of it. He had to learn that he couldn't control her. He was the only one who had to learn anything. If he thought he could put restrictions on her he was insane. She didn't go in the creek this time but instead rode around for a while just to make Darien think that she had gone. Serena turned Lightning around and headed back toward the manor. When she arrived back at the stables Darien was waiting there with an angry scowl on his face. She lcimbed off of Lightning and patted his cheek because she didn't want to face Darien quite yet. When she was done she turned to go the the house but didn't get more than two steps when Darien's fingers closed around her wrist and he stopped her. "I hope that you enjoyed that little stunt because until you learn to listen the stables are off limits." Darien growled. "I had hoped that you have learned by now that if I don't want to listen I won't. There are ways to get around everything and I'll find something to get around this also!" Serena countered as she qrenched her arm from Darien's grasp and stalked towards the gardens. Darien viciously ran a hand through his hair and went back to his office. He again sat down in his chair and thought about how his life was going. The woman he had married wasn't a wilting lily as he had thought she would be. Instead was was strong- willed and sharp-minded. The only reason he had put the restrictions on her in the first place was to keep her safe. He didn't want her to be kidnapped and abused by thieves when she went swimming. It had scared him to death when she had ridden away on Lightning because he knew that the horse was prone to getting excited and had even thrown him a couple of times. He hadn't wanted to find he rlater with her neck broken. He just didn't know how to express his feelings. He didn't believe in love at first sight but throughout their short marriage he had developed some kind of affection for Serena. He believed he could live with her peacefully if they just sat down and talked about things. He was afraid Serena would only see it as him trying to control her. Heaven knows he didn't want to. He had an extreme dislike for men who treated their wives that way. He didn't know how to broach the subject. 
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Serena sat on the bench in the garden and silently fumed about her earlier confrontation with Darien. The fact that he could put all thses restrictions on her made her sick. It was exactly the kind of marriage she had expected. One where the man thought he was supreme ruler and expected the woman to be a subservient person that never wanted any time to herself. Serena was also saddened to realize that she would never have the big family that she longed for. She would never have children with somebody that she didn't love and she would never love Darien. Maybe if he got really tired of the way their marriage was going then he would divorce her and she could go back and live with her parents again. Even if they didn't take her back in she could always open up a shop or something for herself. Not tomention she received a monthly allowance that she would save so that if things got that extreme she could support herself. Serena knew she could find a way to get around being banned from the stables and she already knew how. Tobias was a smart boy and he knew that Obsidian was her horse not Darien's. She was sure she could convince him to let her in and even if Darien could do anything to unish her it couldn't be much worse than what he was already trying to do. Serena heard the cook ring the lunch bell and picked up her skirts so that she could go eat. When she entered the dining room she saw Darien there waiting at the dining table. He looked up at her as she went over to talk to the house keeper and his eyes followed her as she gave her orders to the woman. "Please tell Molly that from now on I'll be taking my meals upstairs in my room." She requested just loud enough for Darien to hear her. Darien stared after her as Serena walked up the stairs to her room, skirts swishing all the way. 
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Serena had been in her room for fifteen minutes when there came a knock on her door. She went and opened it expecting to see Molly with a tray bearing her food. Instead, she looked up into a pair of deep blue eyes. As soon as she made eye contact with Darien she broke it and slammed the door and bolted it. Darien leaned his head on the door trying to control the surge of disappointment that ran through his body as Serena refused to talk to him. He genuinely wanted to make this marriage work but if Serena wouldn't try he couldn't do anything. He turned away and went back down the stairs to his lonely meal. 
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Three weeks of cold silence had passed when Serena decided to make her move. She dressed in her riding clothes and went out to the stables to talk to Tobias. With a few convincing words she had gained access to the stables and the key to Obsidian's stall. He was extremely restless because he had not been ridden for quite a while. When she got to clear land she let Obsidian have his head so that he could stretch his muscles and get some exercise. During the weeks that had passed serena had mostly kept to her suite of rooms. She took all her meals there and rarely left to do anything but get some fresh air. As she thought about these many htings she turned Obsidian around. She had already been out for an hour and that was enough time to come back with out being caught. 
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As Serena rode up she saw a figure running towards her. She recognized the person as Molly her chambermaid. Serena quickly climbed off her horse and ran to meet the girl. "What's the matter Molly?" She asked. Serena noticed that tears were running down her face. "Tobias. . .trouble. . .caught. . .punish. . .Darien. . ." Molly panted trying to catch her breath. Serena had heard enough to know what was happening and ran in the firection Molly had pointed. When she came upon the scene she was absolutely horrified by what she saw. Darien held a whip with three tails and was bringing it down on top of Tobias' back repeatedly. The stable hand's back had thin red lines running up and down his back seeping blood. Serena knew exactly what she had to do. She ran towards the crowd intending to stop the vicious act. 
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All Darien heard was someone shout before a blur of white passed in front of the whip as he brought it down. There was no way to stop it and the lash connected with a white cloth covered back. He heard tearing cloth and a horrifyingly feminine scream. Serena felt a burning pain as the lash ripped across and through her back. The pain was intense and she cried out as it hit her full blast. Her body couldn't take it anymore and her world collapsed into oblivion. Darien dropped the whip and gave a strangled cry as he realized who had stepped in front of the whip. Serena lay crumpled on the ground, her golden hair steadily being stained by the ruby red blood that was seeping out of her back. He gathered her into his arms and ran toward the manor trying to get her inside as fast as possible. After he had her on the bed inside his room he ordered Tobias released and for people to tend to him. After those were being obeyed he ordered water to be heated and bandages to be made so that he could care for Serena. He took a pair of scissors and cut away the rest of Serena's shirt. He looked at the gashes on Serena's back and almost lost his breakfast. The fact that he had inflicted them, if inadvertently, made it even worse. When one of the maids came in with towels, bandages, salve, and hot water he cleaned all the excess blood from around her cuts away. After that he applied the salve straight to the cuts and wrapped the bandages around her, trying to ignore the feel of her soft skin. After he was finished enormous amounts of guilt washed over his conscience. He should have known she would have tried to stop it somehow. He should have ordered some servants to restrain her if she came. What would have been better was if he had never extended such a harsh brand of punishment. Tobias hadn't deserved it now that he thought over it. Serena would never forgive him but he would ask anyway. He had done nothing but bad things to her since they had married and she didn't deserve any of it. Now she wouldn't be able to move around comfortably for at least a couple of weeks. He promised himself that he would never do anything so incredibly violent ever again. Darien sat there thinking about all the things that had been happening growing steadily more depressed. 
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The first thing Serena saw when she woke up was Darien sitting by the bed with his head in his hands. He looked absolutely dejected. Her back was on fire but it felt better than it had when the wounds had been fresh. She shifted a little on the bed and Darien's head immediately snapped up. Their eyes connected and Darien's were clouded with regret and sadness. "Are you okay?" Darien asked. He was afraid that Serena would hate him forever. He was so sorry that this had happened. He should have told the servants to hold her back if she came. He shouldn't have punished Tobias so harshly. Then Serena wouldn't have had to step in. She wouldn't have gotten hurt. He felt so horrible. "I'll be okay." Serena said trying to sit up but failing and turning towards Darien more fully. "I'm so sorry Serena. Please forgive me, even though I know you probably won't." Darien said, his eyes watering briefly. "It's not your fault Darien. I'm the one who stepped in between you and Tobias." "I still don't feel right. You scared me. I rushed in here because there was so much blood. You won't be able to do very much for the next couple of weeks." "Just don't punish anyone like that anymore or I'll never talk to you ever again." Serena replied, then she went over what he had said and her face went pale. "You bandaged me up!" She shrieked shrilly, snatching the covers up to her chin. "Serena, you don't have to worry about that. I'm your husband. Relax." Darien soothed grabbing her hands in between his own. Serena looked around her and noticed that she wasn't in her room. She was in a dark room that smelled of spices. It had dark mahogany furniture. It felt so sad and lonely in here. "Where am I Darien?" She asked, wondering who lived here. "It's my room. I brought you here because it was the closest place with a bed where I could lay you." Darien replied. "You're going to have to sleep down here until you're well enough to climb the stairs." Darien said. "But won't that put you out. I mean, where will you sleep?" Serena asked. She knew she'd go crazy if she stayed in here more than a week. The smell and sight of all his things would drive her to distraction. "Well, we'll switch. I'll sleep in your room and you'll sleep in mine. It's simple." Darien replied, not yet seeing the problems with this situation. "I guess that will be fine." Serena agreed hesitantly. "I'll let you sleep now. You need your rest if you're going to get better any time soon." Darien stood, releasing her hand which he had been holding all through their conversation. Serena missed the warmth of his hand and wished that he had stayed longer. Her thoughts soon faded as she fell into a deep sleep. 
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Hours later Darien went to check on Serena and was alarmed to see her tossing and turning while she burned with fever. The bandage wrapped around her back was slowly turning red because her tossing had reopened her wounds. He immediately ran to the kitchen to get more bandages and both hot and cold water. He had Molly restrain Serena's tossing while he again cleaned and bandaged Serena's lacerations. After he had finished he sat by her and bather her forehead in cool water trying to bring her fever down as best as possible. In the middle of the night Serena's fever broke and she woke up from a horrible nightmare. She sat bolt upright with a scream that in turn caused Darien to wake up. After she had realized she had woken Serena buried her face in her hands and started to cry. Darien quickly got up and took her in his arms trying to comfort her. She leaned her face into his shoulder and sobbed still shaking with fear. Darien rubbed her shoulders and leaned his head on hers. "What happened Serena?" He asked while trying to calm her. "I had a nightmare, there were people after me. You. . .you died, and then they got me." Serena whispered as she burst into fresh gales of tears. "Shhh. . .I'm right here. You don't need to be afraid. I won't let anyone come after you." Darien soothed. It struck him as odd that she would still be having nightmares this late in life but he didn't pursue the subject because Serena had already calmed down. Darien kissed her lightly on the cheek and laid her back on her side in his bed. He stroked her cheek until she went back to sleep. He stayed there by her side for the rest of the night like he had promised. 
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Serena woke up early the next morning to see Darien sleeping by the bed in a chair. She satared at him going over all the things that had happened last night. The dream she'd had terrified her. She had awakened petrified and he had been there. Darien had been there to comfort her when she needed him. This was one of the things that meant the most to her. When someone was there for her no matter what. He had also kissed her. What had he meant by that? Was it just something meant to calm her down? Or was it something more? Her thoughts were interrupted by Darien waking up. She looked into his eyes and noticed that they had a new sparkle in them. He smiled at her and got up to sit beside her on the bed. "Good morning." Darien greeted as he smiled at her. "Good morning." She replied, a little uneasy that he was smiling so brightly. "Are you ready for breakfast?" He questioned cheerily. This question was punctuated with a loud growl from Serena's stomach. "I guess so." Serena blushed. "Molly will be in shortly with it and then after that I'll come and check your wounds." Darien replied, going to his armoire and pulling out a new set of clothes for the day. He left moments later to change. Minutes after he did so Molly came in with Serena's breakfast on a tray. It was a hearty one that would help Serena get her strength back. Serena finished eating twenty minutes later just as Darien stepped in dressed in a fresh change of clothes. "Okay Serena, I'm here to change your bandages." Darien said as he ushered Molly out of the room. When Darien reached the bed Serena hesitantly pulled the sheet down from where she had it clutched at her chest. Thankfully she was decently covered by the bandages but not for long. Darien slowly unwound them with Serena blushing the whole time. He was pleased with the way the cuts looked. They were no longer an angry red but a light pink. They were clean as he had thought. Another wave of guilt washed over him at what he had done to Serena's beautiful back and the permanent reminder they would leave. He wrapped her back up but could not contain his disappointment in himself. Serena felt something wet hit her neck and looked up to see that a tear had escaped Darien's eye. She took him by the hand and sat him down in front of her on the bed. She looked into his eyes and saw regret and sadness there. "What's wrong Darien?" She asked. "Serena, I'm so sorry. I can't believe what I did to you." He said motioning towards her bandages. "Darien, I told you before that it wasn't your fault. I stepped in front of you." She repeated softly. "But if I hadn't made you do that then none of this would have happened." Darien replied. "Darien, you should know by now that nobody can make me do something I don't want to do." Serena teased, making Darien smile. She hugged him gently and he laid his head on her shoulder accepting the comfort she was offering. "Thank you Serena." Darien said. "For what?" She asked. "Being you." He replied, which totally confused Serena. Why would he do that? He could barely stand me when we met. We could barely stand each other. What had changed? Yes, she had grown fond of darien during their fights but she didn't think it was anything deep. Darien pulled away and saw the confusion in her eyes which somewhat dimmed his own bright mood. "I came to tell you that I have to go away on business today. I'm trying to sell some more of my wine." Darien said. "But you just went away. How come you have to leave again so soon?" Serena asked, a genuine whine in her voice. "That's what I have to do if I want to sell. I'm sorry." Darien replied. "Now I'm doing this for your own good. Don't go riding while I'm gone." Darien ordered sternly, "The wounds on your back are too fresh to be jostled around like that." Darien explained. "I guess so." Serena conceded, making a sour face. "I just want you to get better." Darien said as he gently stroked her face. He stood then and quietly walked out of the room waving as he left. Serena sighed as he left anticipating a truly boring time until he came back. She rung the bell that was put by her bedside for the sole purpose of her calling when she needed help. Molly soon arrived looking at her questioningly. "Molly, would you please get one of my dresses from my room and bring it down so that I may change?" She questioned. "I will be back in a couple of minutes." Molly replied. She returned with one of Serena's peach day dresses. As Molly helped her dress Serena anticipated a walk in the garden followed by another one on the top of the manor where she could see everything. Serena walked around the gardens truly trying to spell out her feelings for Darien in her mind. 'I really do like him. He's sweet and kind and only strict when he has to be. I don't know. I'm so confused!' Serena screamed in her mind. She slowly went down the stairs to inside the house and spent the rest of the day puzzling over her dilemma. 
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Two days later. Darien sat in a tavern across from one of the buyers of his wine. They had been there for an hour already haggling over the price of each barrel of each separate wine. Now that they had settled everything Darien was preparing to leave. "Wait mon ami, wait. Let me buy you some dinner." The portly man across from him offered. Darien not about to let the offer slip by sat back down and looked at the menu that was placed in front of him by a buxom barmaid. After he ordered, she went away and he sat there calculating all the cost of transporting and barreling the wine. His food was placed in front of him and he looked up to see the same barmaid. She leaned down making a sleeve of her dress slip off her shoulder. "Anything else you would like sire?" She asked, pressing herself up against his arm. "No thank you." Darien replied coldly. 'Why would I want her? She smells of cigar smoke and stables where other men probably most often take her. She didn't smell of roses like Serena. She had dung brown hair and brown eyes. Serena had glowing golden hair and sparkling blue eyes. No one could compare to her. I don't want anybody to. Nobody would.' Darien cared for her the way she was and never wanted her to change. Darien left the tavern to go to his hotel where he slept peacefully dreaming of his return to the manor. 
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One week later Serena stood on the roof of the manor her hair blowing wildly in the turbulent winds. She took a deep breath of the heather scented air. She opened her eyes to see a group of riders heading towards the house. Serena slowly climbed down the stairs and went to meet whoever was coming. When she got there all the servants seemed slightly uneasy. As if they knew the person coming and didn't like him very much. She heard a knock at the door and automatically went to open it and receive the guests. Behind the door was a striking woman with dark chesnut brown hair. She had glittering green eyes and a clear face. She looked fabulous in a blue day dress that accentuated her hourglass figure. "Well don't just stand there girl! Let me in so I can see Darien!" She snapped when Serena didn't say anything. Serena was taking aback and snapped back at her. "Darien's away on business, may I have a name so I can tell him who called?" Serena asked. "Jasmine, Jasmine Tremaine, and don't you forget it." She oredered. Serena, having had enough of the girl's rudeness closed the door in her face. "Well I never! Such rudeness from a mere servant! Darien will hear of this!" Jasmine screeched. Serena turned around and leaned against the door. She put a finger to her lips that were curved in a conspirital grin. Silently, telling the servants not to say anything about who she really was to Jasmine. Some of them giggled sharing in her mirth and liking the new mistress instantly. Others just smiled saving their laughter for later, when Jasmine actually found out who Serena was. Serena's mirth, however, was dimmed when she thought of who Jasmine might be to Darien. She was certainly beautiful enough for Darien to have an interest in her. Jasmine's beauty far surpassed her own, she concluded. Darien could have wanted to marry her before he had been forced into his present situation with her. Serena's mood plummeted as she thought of this. She had come to terms with her situation and had genuinely wanted to make the marriage work. She had no chanve if Darien was in love with someone else. 
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Three weeks later Serena bolted upright in bed as another bolt of lightning split the sky followed by the resounding sound of thunder. Serena sighed as the rain poured down around the house knowing she'd never get back to sleep until the thunder stopped. Another crash of thunder sounded and this time tears rushed to Serena's eyes. She was terrified and wasn't getting any calmer. Finally, she decided to go down to the kitchen to get a cup of tea to help her relax. Darien closed the door to the manor just as thunder boomed across the sky. He stepped into the hallway soaking wet and started to climb the stairs to his room. Suddenly, he heard a crash just a little ways down stairs and hid in the shadows just in case there was an intruder. He saw someone coming down the hall and realized it was Serena. She was totally unaware that there might be someone in the house. Serena felt a hand clamp over her mouth and she stiffened in fear. After the fear had passed over her she started to struggle furiously. She wiggled and kicked. After she had jabbed her attacker in the ribs with her elbow, she bit the hand that was keeping her quiet. She heard him hiss in pain and made to rum but tripped over a table. She cried in pain as she felt her knee make contact with a corner of it. As she hit the floor she rolled herself up in a ball getting ready to receive whatever payback her attacker warranted was fit. She was surprised when a hand rested lightly on her arm. She opened her eyes to see deep blue ones staring back at her. "Darien!" She squealed before a hand was once more clamped on her mouth. "Shhhh. . .I heard something." With that he picked her up and headed towards the parlor. As another boom of thunder sounded he heard Serena whimper and felt her press her face into his neck. She held on tighter as she finally let the tears flow. Darien was surprised to feel wetness hit his neck. Serena was terrified, the poor girl. He squeezed her tighter to let her know that she was still safe. He set her down near the door to the parlor and went to see who could possibly be in the house. When he opened the door he saw Smoky, Serena's cat standing over a broken lamp. "It's all right Serena, it's only Smoky." Darien laughed. Serena peeked in and giggled at the funny sight the cat made. She tried to make a step toward it but the sound of thunder made her cower in the corner. Darien rushed towards her and picked her up again sitting her across his lap in a chair. He whispered soothing words as he stroked her hair and face. Soon, Serena was fast asleep, her tea totally forgotten. 
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Serena woke up the next morning to a feeling of warmth and security. She opened her eyes to find herself in the parlor and in a sleeping Darien's arms. She raised her head an saw Darien's face rested in peaceful sleep. His bangs fell over his eyes in a soft wave. She yawned and laid her head back down and went back to sleep. Darien's nose twitched as something tickled it. He opened his eyes to see a strand of blond hair blowing in the slight breeze in the room. Darien looked down and saw Serena sleeping in his arms. His heart thrilled at the feel of her there. He had slept the best last night than he had in a long while. He sat there for about twenty minutes holding her before she stirred and started to wake up. "Morning lovely." He said as she finally opened her eyes after having put him through the torture of stretching. "Morning Darien." Serena replied, laying her head back down on his shoulder. "How is your back feeling?" Darien asked. "Fine, it doesn't hurt anymore. I just get a little stiff." Serena informed him. "Do you feel up for dancing?" Darien asked. "I can, why?" Serena replied, confused. "I forgot about a ball that is being put on by some of our neighbors. I promised I'd go a while ago. I forgot about it before I left." Darien told her. "Do you know who's going to be there?" Serena asked. "Probably a bunch of eligible young ladies. They've been trying to set me up for the longest time. They still don't know about my blushing young bride." Darien smiled. Serena giggled as he hugged her. "You better start getting ready because it starts at four." Darien smiled. He kissed her on the cheek and gently shoved her in the direction of her room. 
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Darien looked up as a vision descended the staircase. She was dressed in her white ball gown. The empire waist accentuated Serena's own tiny one perfectly. She looked queenly with her train trailing behind her. Her hair was pinned up in ringlets that cascaded down her back. She had a pale dustin gof sparkling powder along her bare shoulders and the parts where her dress did not reach. There was only one thing missing and Darien knew exactly what. He went to the safe in his office and pulled out a velvet box. He set this before Serena on a hall table and opened it to reveal a diamond necklace and diamond encrusted tiara. Once she had these on Serena looked as beautiful and regal as a princess. It was hard to believe she was only a marchioness. They got into the carriage and drove away with just enough time to make it. 
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The carriage stopped and Darien helped his lady out. They joined the reception line to greet their host and hostess. All Darien could think about was how surprised they would be that he had finally tied the knot. It had been mostly Serena's family at the wedding so they didn't know yet. Finally they made it to the front of the line. "Darien, you made it!" Mina exclaimed happily. "Of course, how could I miss one of your parties?" He asked. "Darien, ready to meet all the ladies?" Andrew winked at him. "Actually, I have someone I'd like you to meet." Darien pulled Serena toward him and presented her to his friends. "This is my wife, Serena." Mina's jaw dropped in shock. Then she smacked Darien on the arm. "How could you not tell us! What were you thinking!" Darien laughed as Andrew introduced himself. "Hello, my name is Andrew Lionheart." He said as he bowed to her. "Pleased to meet you." Serena replied. "Dare, you don't mind if I steal your lovely wife for a dance do you?" Andrew asked. "Not for too long, I want a couple of dances too." Darien replied. With that Andrew whisked Serena off to the dance floor. Darien left Mina to greet her other guests. He walked around talking with other ladies and gentlemen. Unfortunately, he got caught up with somebody he didn't particularly like. "Darien darling! How have you been?" Jasmine asked as she went up to him and enthusiastically kissed his cheek. "I've been well. How about you?" "Just fine darling. I have to tell you I went to your house the other day to see you and you weren't there. I was surprised. I also have to tell you that you have the rudest servant in your house. Goodness, she slammed the door in my face when I came to visit. You really should get rid of her. Well, there she is right now! Did you actually bring a servant with you to a ball? I can't believe it!" Jasmine went on and on. "Well actually Jasmine. . ." Darien started. "Yes Darien?" She batted her eyelashes at him and giggled beneath her fan, trying to look cute. "I'd like you to introduce to you, my wife, Serena." Darien put an arm around Serena's waist as Jasmine went slack jawed. She glanced over the beautiful diamond bearing woman and her gaze narrowed in fury. 'That should have been me.' She thought as she gazed at Serena's tiara and necklace. She just smiled at Serena plotting ways she could ruin their happiness. "If you would please listen ladies and gentlemen. I have an announcement to make." Andrew shouted over the conversation. Everyone quieted down and waited. "I would like to announce the marriage of a very close friend of mine, Darien Chiba has finally settled down and married a beautiful woman, Serena Tsukino!" Everyone cheered and did the appropriate clapping as Darien led Serena out to the dance floor. A waltz started up and Darien and Serena moved in time. Her arms around his neck and Darien's around her waist pulling her tightly to him. Their foreheads touching as they looked deep into each others eyes. Anyone could tell that they were hopelessly in love with one another. Mina and Andrew watched the two and were happy that their friend had found someone that he could be happy with. Jasmine, however was trying as hard as possible to pry them apart. She was hearing a very interesting piece of gossip from someone who had actually been at their wedding. It would be very satisfying to smash that one's world. 
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As Darien danced with Serena he wondered how his surprise for her back at the manor was going. He had hoped that tonight he could finally tell her that he loved her. There was no mistake, there couldn't be. He had never felt such a strong feeling. His mother had described love to him once. Love was something that made you feel endless happiness. The person who you felt this way about returned your feelings and you're content with what you have. You don't long for anything but to be with that person for the rest of your life. Never leaving their side for more time than is absolutely necessary. All this was what he felt for Serena. As he whirled her around Darien cuddled Serena in his arms. He smelt the rose fragrance her body was emitting. Her yellow hair glowed brilliantly in the many lights around the room and her dress and diamonds sparkled. They danced the night away in each other's arms and leaned against each other on the ride home. 
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Serena opened the door to her room and gasped. The room was littered with glowing white candles and white rose petals were carefully strewn across the floor and bed. The shutters were closed to give the candelight more effect. She turned around when she heard a shuffling at the door to see Darien leaning casually against the doorjamb. She looked at him and gave him a teary smile, overwhelmed at the romance of the room. Darien walked over to her and took her in his arms. He stood there holding her and enjoying the embrace. He slowly kissed her, coaxing her lips open and holding her close. He kissed his way down her neck and back up. Finally, he looked into her eyes and said what he had been wanting to say for a long while. "I love you." He whispered, kissing the very tip of her nose. "I love you too." She said holding him at tight as possible, not wanting to let her go. Neither of them were alone that night. 
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Serena woke up with a content smile the next morning lying comfortably in the circle of Darien's arms. Darien was still sleeping deeply, getting rest that he needed. Last night had been one of the most wonderful nights of her life. Darien had made the marriage real for her by telling her that he loved her, not anything that had followed. Serena sat up on an elbow and looked at Darien. A lock of his hair fell boyishly across his eyes and his chest rose and fell as he breathed in and out deeply. She laid her head back down and lightly ran her fingers up and down his shoulder. After a few minutes of this a hand clamped over hers. Serena looked up to see Darien's deep blue eyes looking back at her. "Morning." Serena whispered. "Morning." He said as he kissed her on the cheek. "How are you feeling?" Darien asked. "I'm fine." Serena replied, cuddling next to him. "That's good. Come one, I have to get up. There are lots of things for me to do today." Darien said, throwing beack the coverlet and putting on his clothes from the previous night. When he saw Serena hadn't yet gotten up but had fallen back asleep he came over and kissed her. Serena gave a sigh as she felt his lips on hers. She then wrapped her arms around his neck and leaned into the kiss. Soon, he pulled away and softly ran his fingers up and down her face. "Get up you." He whispered, taking her by the hands and pulling her upright. "I'm going, don't worry." Serena replied. She had quite a lot of stuff to do that day also. She was going to move all her things down to Darien's room. They would be sleeping there from now on. There was no way to describe the happiness that they felt. They would be sleeping there from now on. There was no way to describe the happiness that they felt. The only people who could relate were others that were just as much in love. 
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A couple weeks later Serena woke up earlier than usual with a queasy feeling in her stomach. She looked over at Darien who was still sound asleep and went to the washstand where she splashed some water on her face. Unfortunately, a wave of queasiness came over her and she got violently sick over the basin. Serena felt a pair of cools hands pull back her hair so that she wouldn't get a mess in it. Darien rubbed her back trying to calm her somewhat. As soon as she was done she wiped her mouth and looked up at Darien sheepishly. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to wake you up." She said straightening up. "You shouldn't be worrying about that when you're sick. Come on, let's get you to bed." Darien said as he gently picked her up and laid her on the bed. He covered her up and went to go get some water from the kitchen. "Here, drink this." He said as he lifted Serena's head and made her take a few sips. After that he got back in bed with her and held her until she went back to sleep. About a half hour later he got dressed and went to the kitchen again to make some arrangements for Serena. 
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Serena was awakened a couple hours later by a knock on the door to the bedroom. When she called for the person to enter Molly stepped in with a tray of food. She set down the tray and uncovered a bowl of thin broth. "I hope you're feeling better mistress." She said as she set it up so Serena could eat. "I'll be fine." Serena replied. "So when is the little one due?" Molly asked curious. "Little one? What little one?" Serena inquired, confused. "You mean you're not having one? I thought you were with child, because you keep getting sick." Realization washed over Serena as she thought about what the girl was suggesting. She couldn't believe that she hadn't thought of it before. It must have happened the night of the ball. "Molly! Thank you! I never even thought about that!" Serena exclaimed, scaring the girl out of her skin. (AN: the baby won't be Rini.) "You mean you didn't know? You didn't even think about it?" Molly asked in disbelief. "No, I didn't even think about it." Serena gazed in wonder at her abdomen touching it softly. She could almost imagine the new life growing inside of her. "Are you going to be okay mistress?" "Yes, I'll be fine." Serena said as she got out of bed and walked to the closet to get dressed. She couldn't believe it. She was going to have Darien's baby. She was sure of it now. Everything pointed to it. She had been overly tired of lately. Constant sickness had plagued her for a couple of days. A bright smile played over her face as she wondered whether or not it would be a boy or girl. She wondered whether it would have Darien's or her looks. 
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Later that night Serena walked into Darien's office to see him rubbing his temples and sighing. Obviously, there was something wrong and he was tired. The door clicked softly as she closed it and he looked up and smiled at her. She walked over to his desk and he hugged her around the waist laying his head on her stomach. She stroked her hands through his hair and stood there trying to get him to relax. "You feel anything moving down there?" She asked, wanting to give him some good news to lighten his bad mood. "No, why do you ask?" Darien inquired, confused. "You will be in a couple of months." Serena replied mysteriously. "What are you talking about?" Darien asked, raising an eyebrow. Serena laughed and took his hand and placed it over her stomach. "What generally belongs down there and moves?" Serena asked. "I still don't know what you're talking about." Darien said. "A baby silly. I'm going to have a baby." Serena laughed. Darien's face broke out in a bright smile and he jumped up and hugged her. "Really? Oh my God! I'm going to be a father!" Darien shouted, shock finally setting in. Serena gave him a teary smile, touched by his enthusiasm. "I have to tell Andrew and Mina. We have to invite all the ladies you met at the ball to a baby shower. It will be the biggest one you've ever seen." Darien planned. "Whatever you want Darien." Serena agreed. 
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"I can feel it move!" Darien exclaimed. Today was the day of the baby shower. Darien and Serena were still in bed but Darien had his hand over the ever increasing mound in Serena's stomach that was their child. "It's pretty active today." Serena agreed. Putting her hand over her husband's. "Thank you." Darien said, kissing her gently on the lips. Serena sighed and kissed him back not needing to say anything. Later, Serena was sitting in a lawn chair with a pile of packages around her, greeting the guests. It seemed as though Darien had invited every single couple that had been at the ball. "Serena! How have you been?" Mina greeted as she walked up to the obviously joyfully pregnant young woman. "I'm fine Mina, just been a little tired lately." Serena replied, rising out of the chair. "Oh don't worry about that, it will pass. That's how I was with little Joey." She said, motioning toward the two year old sitting on Andrew's shoulders. "I hope so!" Serena exclaimed. She felt a pair of arms wrap around her waist as Darien hugged her tightly. "Are you feeling okay love?" He asked, his breath tickling her ear. "I'm fine." "Hello Darien, Serena." Jasmine said her eyes glued to Darien's arms around Serena's waist. "Hi Jasmine, how have you been?" Serena asked, sensing the hostility the other woman felt for her. "Just fine." Jasmine replied. "Why don't you sit down and get some refreshments? There's plenty of food." Serena offered. "I guess I will." Jasmine walked off with her skirts swishing all the way. "I suppose I have to let you go so you can talk with the ladies, don't I?" Darien asked. "I guess so." Serena answered. "I'll miss you." Darien said, not anticipating entering the smoking room. "Me too." Darien gently kissed her on the lips, holding her tight. "Go on." Darien said gently patting her back. 
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"I wish I could have been at your wedding Serena, it must have been so beautiful." Mina commented over tea. "Actually, I heard your wedding wasn't all that happy. It seems Darien was forced to marry you." Jasmine replied. Serena looked at Jasmine, wondering what she was trying to prove. "Yes it was an *arranged* marriage. As you can see Darien and I are very much in love." Serena calmly motioned to her gently swelling stomach. Jasmine stared daggers at her wishing that she would disappear. All the women stared at Jasmine with dislike. They had known Serena for a month and they had already taken a liking to her. She was infinitely more polite than Jasmine. That one deserved everything she got. They all would have snubbed her if her father hadn't been one of the richest men in the county. He was second in wealth only to Darien. There was one big difference between the two. Darien made his money at an honest trade where Jasmine's father made it by swindling poor misguided people. Serena felt some hands rest on her shoulders and looked up to see Darien smiling down at her. "Having a good time love?" He asked, kissing her lightly on the cheek. All the women could see the tenderness he felt for her. "Just fine, how is it going with the men?" She questioned. "Good, they're offering suggestions for names for the little one." Darien laughed while gently putting his hands on Serena's stomach. "Like what?" "Bartholomew, Justin, Matthew, and my favorite, Darien Jr." "Bartholomew?" Serena said in disbelief, making a face. "But Serena, how do they know it will be a boy?" Mina questioned laughing. "That's exactly what I was thinking." Serena giggled. "I would welcome anything." Darien replied sincerely, kissing the top of his wife's head. "Well rest assured we will have both." Serena blushed. She heard a small snort and looked over to see Jasmine making a disgusted face, at best. "Well, I must go, it has been a pleasure." Jasmine said as she gathered her skirts and left. Darien sat by Serena's side for twenty minutes exchanging pleasantries with the other ladies. "I have to go get some papers for Andrew, love, I'll be right back." Darien rose, squeezing Serena's hand. "Sure, go ahead." She said smiling back. Darien was not gone more than five minutes when Andrew came looking for him. "Serena, have you seen Darien around?" He asked. "Yes, he just went to get you some papers." Serena answered. "I'm sorry to have put him out, I don't need them anymore." He said. "Don't worry about it Andrew, I'll go tell him." Serena reassured him as she got up to go find Darien. Serena walked down the drive toward the house where she knew Darien was in his office looking for business papers. She opened the door to Darien's study to see Jasmine hanging all over a clearly reluctant Darien. She gasped softly getting their attention. "Serena, let me explain." Darien said coming toward her. Serena only put her hand up to stop him slowly moving past him towards Jasmine. "I can't believe you. I invited you here to my home in good will even though I knew you wanted Darien. You won't get him, I won't let you. Even if he does want to leave I will not let you deny my baby his father. Now I want you to get out. Don't ever come near my family ever again." Serena finished, pointing towards the door. "I doubt he wants your brat. After all, he was forced into this." Jasmine replied moving towards the door. Serena let her leave and collapsed into a chair, putting her head in her hands. She sniffed and started to cry, her doubts about her marriage overwhelming her. Darien's heart almost broke that she would think that he would want to leave her. He never would, what he had said the night of the ball had been true. "Serena, what's wrong." He asked, although he already knew, he wanted her to tell him. "I don't know, I mean Jasmine's so much more beautiful, and look at me! I look like a whale right now. I could understand if you love her not me." She said dejectedly. "Serena." He said pulling her to her feet. He took her face in between his hand, and said, "I love you." Putting emphasis on every word. "I don't care what you look like, that's our child growing in there. OURS." He said putting his hand on her stomach. Serena looked up at him through teary eyes and hugged him tight. "I love you." 
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Darien punched the wall of his office as Serena screamed again upstairs. He heard a chuckle behind him and looked to see Andrew with a conspirital grin on his face. "What's so funny?" He asked, frustrated. "I was just thinking that I acted the same way when Mina had Joey." Andrew glowed with the memory. "Oh. . .I can't stand it anymore! I want to know what's going on!" Darien exclaimed. "No need to yell about it." Mina said as she entered the room. "How is she?" Darien inquired, almost tackling Mina in nervousness. "I came to tell you that you have a new baby boy." Mina smiled. Darien collapsed in a chair in relief. "Well don't just sit there! Go see him!" Darien needed no more encouragement. He took the stairs two at a time, slowing down only when he reached the top. He quietly opened the door and looked inside to see Serena cradling a little baby with a soft tuft of black hair on its head. "Hey little Darien, meet your Daddy." She said stroking the baby's cheek. He woke up with a little yawn and stared at Darien through is mother's eyes. "Hello little man, welcome to the world." Darien said, the baby's only response was to take one of the fingers darien had near him and stick it in his mouth, starting to suck on it. "I think he likes you." Serena said. Darien looked up at her. Not ever wanting to part.