twenty-four hours!
- But it changed, Meredith. And for the better.
The countess left Meredith look suspicious.
- How so?
- Claire is married to Jason, but we all know that there's something very strange involving this marriage. And I am not referring to the fact that Jason has signed the certificate with the name and title of brother.
- Still do not understand, Mom.
- Over the years, my dear son has used the disappointment with Elizabeth as a shield to avoid emotional involvements with other women. I always believed that when he finds the right woman, this barrier could be destroyed. - The countess paused briefly.
- Claire is not that woman.
- Jason does not think so, Mom. He married her.
- Married? - The countess raised an eyebrow. - Or was married by proxy, knowing that he had found the ideal woman for her brother?
- Jasper and Claire? - Meredith shook her head in disbelief. - Jason has no idea what kind of woman that matters to her brother. More likely is that Jason was drunk and had signed the wrong name for pure distraction. And despite having signed the name of Jasper, marriage is not valid.
- Jason is impetuous and is far from perfect, but it's not a drunk. He loves and admires his brother - the countess said indignantly. - Behaviour change Jasper had some positive influence.
- I think it wonderful not to drink excessively and do not play anymore, but like everything that my brothers do, Jasper was one extreme to another. He is arrogant, impertinent, and extremely controlled. I fear that there is more passion and joy in his heart.
- Maybe this is the role of Claire, my daughter. Bring joy and passion back to life in Jasper.
- What nonsense mom. Claire believes she was married to Jason!
- Jason Claire has not told any details of the plan. - The countess spoke slowly and thoughtfully, as if forming thoughts aloud.
- Do you really think that Jason has produced a dazzling scheme involving Claire and Jasper, which precipitated her coming events?
- It may have happened just that.
Meredith put his gloved hand on his forehead.
- His absurd theories are making me dizzy. The Countess patted the shoulder of her daughter.
- I also felt confused to see Jasper and Claire at breakfast each morning, and also just before the shop lady Renude. Suddenly everything became crystal clear. - The countess sighed. - I feel sparks between them. Interest, excitement, even passion, are hidden beneath the surface. Last night, I felt something but did not know what it was. Today, however, realized that with the right encouragement and a touch of luck, soon the sparks turn into flames.
- You forgot that Jasper has already chosen a bride?
- Ah yes, that Miss impeccable. Rebecca Manning. - The Countess tapped his forefinger on his chin. - What do you think of it?
Meredith hesitated, took a deep breath and folded his hands in his lap.
- Miss. Manning seems to be a respectable girl. It is polite, elegant, but distant and quiet ways too.
- Exactly. A Young boring. I do not like her very much. Is there anything that girl that bothers me, but I can not explain what it is. Most important, it is not the right woman for Jasper.
- Do not be rude, Mum. We hardly know Miss. Manning.
- I doubt that we shall know her better. - The countess lifted her chin. - Do not look at me with that face of horror! If we can not talk openly with one another, with whom we will share our confidences, Meredith?
- Whatever the truth, Mom, it's best not to get involved in this imbroglio. The countess looked at her for a moment, then looked away, pretending to be interested in a cover flap. The gesture suggestive bothered Meredith.
- You were so quiet all of a sudden, Mom. I'm afraid it is up to something.
- Up to Now? What word most unpleasant! I'm just looking after the interests of my children. Who can blame a mother for thinking of their happiness?
Meredith smiled. Rested his head on the seat back, wary of the term of his mother's innocence.
Moments
Kim Curran
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Abby Green
Lisa Sanchez
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