Moonlight lake

It was late at night I placed my lantern down and took in the sight of the moon feeling a connection the moon had the star's as it's partner. I turned and saw my brother edward

"Elizabeth," I said quietly as I approached her. "How are you these days?"

"Of course sister. Is something on your mind?" I sat on a dry patch of land on the lake's shore.

I took Elizabeth's question seriously, pondering it in my mind before answering. "I think love is possible, though for people like us it is improbable. Luck has much to do with it. Why do you ask?" I placed my hand on her shoulder as we walked.

"Do you doubt already that I have a true love?" I teased her. But I did blush after she suggested I make love to my wife-to-be. "Perhaps, but is that not a sin, to make love before I make her my lawfully wedded wife?"

"Calm down, sister," I said soothingly. "And anyway, that part of my life is private. I certainly would not advise you to sleep with the count, though I think you admitted already that you have. Don't you worry what Father and Mother would say?"

I made a face, trying to figure whom she was speaking about. "Of whom do you speak, sister?"

I nodded slowly, wondering why she diverged from my question. "I thank you, sincerely from the bottom of my heart. I know you want my happiness and of course Anne's happiness as well. To answer your question, I have no idea that anyone in our family is unhappy. In fact, if I may speak bluntly, you seem to be the one who is restless," I said quietly, reaching for her hand.

"Where has he gone?" I asked squeezing her hand in reassurance. I thought if he left without any promise or plans to return, he'd have to face me and it would not be a happy moment.

I chuckled lightly. "No, don't trust the French," I repeated. Sighing as she mentioned our father, I gave a half-smile at her. "Father..well I know Anne is different. She does truly love me and I love her." I felt myself blushing at the thought and knowing I looked ridiculous blushing I brought the subject back to her. "I don't think you need to worry about Niklaus. A man will stay faithful if his heart loves true."

I contemplated meeting with Father again. I doubted the old man even remembered my first wife anymore. I took a deep breath and sighed. "I suppose it could do no harm," I replied, smiling at Lizzie.

"I shall leave it to you to arrange it," I said, relenting. "I suppose if Father cannot meet him it is up to me." I smiled to see how eager she was for us to meet.