Blood Lines ~ Rosé + Cinderella's Girlfriend

LIFE IS NEVER EASY FOR THOSE WHO DREAM
there is no cure for curiosity

{{ANTONIA ANNE CURNROW}}

+ youmaycallme + Miss Curnrow +
+ ihavebeenherefor + Nineteen years and still unmarried +
+ whatwillberecorded + Female Human White British +
+ iwilllookdownonyou + Social climber family Well established +


+The Past+
Born into a nearly-rich family, Antonia was the third oldest of six children (two older brothers and three younger sisters). Being the first young woman of the family she was often supposed to be the first to be married. Her mother always put pressure on her, but she always used to shake it off, being far more risque with her words than she often should be, she was regularly chastised.
+The Present+
Now the Curnrow family is well known in the county. Her older brothers sending homw money from their well paid jobs, and her mother sending the rest of them off to social balls and gatherings. Now they hold their own, attracting other nobility and high social climbers from all over England.
+The Person+
Antonia was never one to listen to her mothers frantic worrying. She played with her brothers in the rain and often came home with grass-stains on her dresses. She soon grew out of that, becoming more talented and civilised, being able to play the piano forte and paint in her spare time, however she kept her curiosity, which often makes her talked about, and is perhaps the reason why she is still unmarried.

Alexander Francis Granville
The Earl of Rochester

❝ quiet● intelligent ● adventurous ● passionate ● hot - tempered❞



+ youmaycallme + Lord Granville +
+ ihavebeenherefor + One Hundred and twenty nine years +
+ whatwillberecorded + Male Vampire White British +
+ iwilllookdownonyou + Seemingly young bachelor Family are unknown in the county+

+The Past+
Over one hundred years ago Alexander was born into a middle class family of well earning merchants to the north of the country. He was the youngest of the three brothers, and the only one to not share his father’s interest in the family trade. Alexander soon left home when he felt himself able in an attempt make his own way in life, unfortunately one night in London Alexander found himself enchanted by one of the night’s darkest creatures, leaving him to die on the streets. Fortunately, or as some would seem it. Alexander found himself surrounded by people just like himself in a darkened room. Being taken under their win he learnt all he needed to know, once again making a life for himself alone.
+The Present+
After many years of social climbing, Alexander found himself to be the Earl of Rochester and the richest bachelor. Now he enjoys the finer things in life and wouldn’t swap his position for anything in the world. Money, power and women, he found himself with no need for change, soon, in the next decade or so Alexander knew he would have to fake his death and flee to another country, but the fun would only start again from there. For now, he would enjoy his social standing whilst he could. Attending balls and other upper class social gatherings .
+The Person+
Set in his ways, Alexander has never been and never will be one to the listen to other people or take himself too seriously. He has a very fiery streak which has been known to ward people away from him, his arrogant manor has attracted many women but he has had no intention of finding a wife, he felt it would only complicate things. Reserved around those he isn’t sure of Alexander can become quite a character

LIFE IS NEVER EASY FOR THOSE WHO DREAM
there is no cure for curiosity

{{ANTONIA ANNE CURNROW}}

Every one loved Elizabeth. The passionate and almost reverential attachment with which all regarded her became, while I shared it, my pride and my delight. On the evening previous to her being brought to my home, my mother had said playfully—"I have a pretty present for my Victor—to-morrow he shall have it." And when, on the morrow, she presented Elizabeth to me as her promised gift, I, with childish seriousness, interpreted her words literally, and looked upon Elizabeth as mine—mine to protect, love, and cherish. 'ANTONIA!' The gentle silence was interrupted by an earsplitting scream from her mother. Antonia sighed, closing the new book she had been reading. She had not even been able to begin on the second page before being called back into the madness of her home.
She too a moment to look around her at the garden, before pushing herself up off of the grass and away from he redwood she was leaning against, once more taking a deep intake of breath and enjoying the silence before 'ANTONIA!!' she turned around quickly at the second more frantic callings of her name. 'Coming mother.' she sighed, walking back towards the house.
Antonia Anne Curnrow was the third child of George and Florence Curnrow. Both of her older brothers had left home by the time they were eighteen, leaving to find families and fortune. Oliver, the oldest soon did, and was married within a couple of years, earning his name as a successful tradesman. The youngest brother Jasper, to his mother's distress, is still unmarried even after two years of him leaving. He has gained a name for himself in the militia as an officer. Antonia and her younger, by a year, sister Linette are very close. The younger twin sisters Emily and Elizabeth however are set, in her mother's opinion, to gain the family a reputation by marrying off very early to rich young bachelors, which is their mother's main ambition in life.

'Antonia! Antonia! Oh there you are! I have been calling frantic with my nerves, where have you been young lady? Out reading again!? I tell you it is not sociable to be doing this so often. Oh. Now I have lost my train of thought, you see what you do to me!' Antonia stood there quiet as her short, plump mother rambled and tried to gather her thoughts. 'You should be inside, look at your dress! It's ruined!' She picked up the slightly creased material in her hands and rubbed it together. 'Mother, this is not the dress I shall be wearing for the evening, stop your fretting.' The old woman stopped and looked up to her oldest daughter 'You mean you aren't even dressed yet? Heaven's child when shall you learn! We have less than two hours to be ready, oh... Louisa, thank the heavens you are here. Take my rebellious daughter up to her room to get prepared, like she should have been doing hours ago.' the young girl curtseyed 'this way Miss Curnrow.' she said, walking down the halls. Antonia didn't move. 'Mother, where is Linette?' The woman, still walking away called back 'In your room, where you should be. Now Hurry!'
Antonia gasped as the young servant girl put a foot up against her back and pulled tightly on the cords to her corset. She could hear her sister doing the same to the right of her. 'Linette...' she managed to breathe out before being tugged at again. 'Do you think... that the time is right to voice our... opinions... to Mother that starving us would be far more... beneficial... to our... health... than these blasted corsets?' she gasped once more, at the tugging, hearing her sister's strangled laughter. 'Antonia you are outrageous. I do so hope that you find a husband who does tolerate this manner of speaking.' Antonia laughed this time as the cords were tied. 'If the man I proceed to marry does not tolerate me, then I shan't tolerate marrying him!' They both laughed together. More laughter and voices filled the room as their younger siblings came dancing into the room together, Elizabeth as always a few steps behind Emily. 'Oh Linny, Tonia, aren't our ribbons darling?' Emily laughed, twirling on the floor for them both. Linette smiled 'You look beautiful, and you Lizzy.' the more reserved twin smiled daintily. Some out of breath maids came running into the room, exasperated. 'Miss Emily, please may you come back, your mother requests your hair be tightened...' Emily turned 'Oh, if you insist. Isn't this all so exiting?!' The twins were led out of the room as the older girls looked at each other and smiled. It indeed was exiting.
The family had been invited to a ball in Oliver's residence. It was a rarity that Oliver held a ball, his wife Genevieve must have broken him in. He wasn't at all the person to be sociable. Oliver had met Genevieve in France on visiting Lord Byron in his country estate. She, of course, was fluent in both French and English seeming as her Father was an Englishman and her Mother a French nobility. They fell in love almost instantaneously and proceeded to marry straight away. Their mother's always said it was like something out of a Jane Austen book.

'Come on Mr Curnrow, we shan't be late, imagine the gossip!' The old man shook his head at his frantic wife whilst helping her into the carriage. 'Mrs Curnrow, we shall be half the hour early and you still won't be happy.' His daughters laughed at his remarks as they made their way into the carriage also, Antonia and Linette were to travel in the second carriage, as to not strike suspicion that they were too poor to afford more than one carriage.
They had indeed arrived half the hour earlier than planned, and few people had arrived, but were turning up quickly. The family walked inside the the large ballroom with painted ceilings and marble floors, 'Much grander than the Duke of Earlington's ballroom, don't you think Mr Curnrow?' she asked her husband on entering. 'I dare say.' he replied. 'Now girls, hurry along, socialise.' their mother said in a hushed voice. Linny and Tonia linked arms and walked elegantly away from their parents. 'Where do you suppose Oliver is?' Linette asked her sister, only to be answered by a deep voice behind them 'Far away from the festivities hopefully!' both women turned to see their olest brother stood there, his arms open to them and a large welcoming smile on his face. 'Oliver!' they cried, jumping into his arms as he laughed 'Linette, beautiful as ever... and Antonia! I was half expecting you to turn up in men's attire the way you were the last time I saw you!' Antonia smiled 'Oliver I was thirteen, not quite the woman I have been forced to be now.' they both laughed. 'I must say brother, your home is splendid, some are saying grander than the Duke of Earlington.' Oliver laughed loudly this time, as if from some inside joke 'It wouldn't surprise me Linny, garish brute as he is. My home is nothing on Lord Byron's however.' Linette gasped, Antonia instead standing by and viewing the room. 'You mean you've met him? Shall he be here tonight?' He shook his head 'Unfortunately not, he has been called for an evening with Miss Shelley in France. Some awful things happening over there. Absolutely dreadful.' Antonia's attention snapped back into the conversation. 'Miss Shelley? The Author of Frankenstein?' Oliver nodded suspiciously 'I must say I have just but begun reading it this morning, I can tell it will be splendid.' Oliver arched an eyebrow 'Surely a lady should not be reading such things?' Antonia stood taller. 'If a lady can write them, then a lady may read them also.'

The ball was in full swing, Linette had just finished a dance with a young gentleman and was walking back over to her sister with flushed cheeks and a smile on her face. 'Antonia, it is the most glorius fun! You must dance!' The older sister smiled sadly 'Yet again Linny, a young lady cannot dance on her own.' Linette frowned. 'Then ask someone.'

Alexander Francis Granville
The Earl of Rochester

❝ quiet● intelligent ● adventurous ● passionate ● hot - tempered❞

LIFE IS NEVER EASY FOR THOSE WHO DREAM
there is no cure for curiosity

{{ANTONIA ANNE CURNROW}}

Antonia looked at her sister, desperately trying to think of something to get her out of the situation. Ever since she was a young girl, Antonia had always been one to rather be outside than to be dancing. She often hid when her mother was trying to teach her daughters the modern dance of the day. She wanted to avoid being talked about for not dancing, but she also wanted to avoid being talked about for dancing like a savage. It was a hard decision. 'But Linny, I must socialise, however will I find a husband if I don't socialise.' The younger sister wrinkled her nose up in annoyance. 'Sarcasm does not become a young lady Antonia.' she said before turning to another young man and asking him to dance. Antonia shook her head, not moving from the spot, watching her sister. About a quarter into the dance, Linette turned and glared at Antonia, mouthing 'socialise!' Antonia rolled her eyes before plastering on a fake smile and walking around the room. A couple of girls, around her age, who always attended the dances walked up to her, their arms linked. 'Not dancing Miss Curnrow?' one of them said to her, the other laughed courtly at the comment, looking down her nose at Antonia. 'Evidently not. Is your brother out of the poorhouse yet Miss Smith? He was quite a catch before his little gambling problem.' The young girl that had spoke pursed her lips together. 'No. He is not. Come on Louicia. We must be moving on.' Antonia smiled slyly to the two as they moved on from talking to her.
The Curnrow family were very high up in status, her father having received a rather large amount of money from his father in inheritance, and also him having earned five thousand pounds a year when he was younger. They were very well of, and with her mother being as she was, they knew everything about everyone else. This often came in handy to Antonia when trying to avoid the scrutiny of other young women.

Antonia continued to walk elegantly around the room in herwhite dress, a crimson-red ribbon tied around the waist and two thin strands of the same colour in her hair, it being tied back and curled. Finally, after a lot of nodding to and smiling at people, she found somebody she could have a conversation. Her good friend Maryanne.
Antonia had been friends with Maryanne since a couple of years previous when her brother Jasper left for the militia. She was from an equally wealthy family, but wasn't so stuck up like the others.
The girls greeted each other warmly with a hug. 'Maryanne! I haven't seen you in almost a week. You must visit the house soon.' the dark haired young woman smiled. 'Yes I shall, I do apologise but I've just been engrossed in a new book I've had sent to me.' Antonia's face lit up as they walked around arm in arm 'It wouldn't happen to be Frankenstein?' Maryanne nodded enthusiastically 'Yes! Do you know of it?' Antonia smiled 'I do. Papa had a copy of it sent to the house. I have, of course, claimed it as mine.' Maryanne laughed 'Oh you are Coy Miss Curnrow! How are you enjoying it?' Antonia looked around the room whilst speaking to her friend, watching the dancers move. 'I only read to the first page when my Mother called me, like she does.' Her eyes had focused on a young man she had not seen before. 'Ah yes, how is your mother?'
He had raven-dark hair, and a blue ribbon to tie it back. Quite pale skin and dark eyes. 'Antonia?' Tonia looked to her friend, eyes wide 'hmm?' Maryanne shook her head 'I said how is your mother!?' she laughed 'Who has intrigued you so?' Antonia pulled back into focus. 'Oh nobody... who is that young man dancing with Miss Hannah Bode?' Mary looked around, paused for a second before saying in a matter-of-fact way 'Oh, that is the new Earl of Rochester. He's from London.' Antonia furrowed her brow in confusion. 'What happened to the old Earl of Rochester? Why havent I heard of this?' Maryanne hushed them off into a corner, still where they could watch him, but where they could talk of him without him hearing. 'He died. Rather suddenly too. Some are talking.' Antonia looked shocked, looking from Mary to The new Earl. 'No!' 'Yes!' Antonia shook her head 'I don't believe such a thing.' They both watched as the dance broke up and he walked away, smiling and conversing with people. 'I shall speak with him.' Maryanne gasped 'No Antonia! You mustn't people will talk!' Antonia scoffed 'Oh let them talk. It must be truly awful for a man of his stature knowing these horrible accusations against him. And for him to be new to the country too!' Mary nodded. 'Yes I agree but, at least speak with your Oliver first, at how they met.' Antonia watched the Earl with infatuation, he was very handsome, if his attire was a little last season, yet, alot of men in the room were wearing the same style.
'I shan't.' She ignored Maryanne's protests as she walked through the crowds. He seemed to be talking to someone, but that wouldn't stop her. 'Good Evening gentlemen.' she said in a large voice. She recognised one older gentleman when he turned. 'Miss Curnrow, my girl! How very handsome you are looking tonight!' Antonia smiled gratefully 'Why thank you Sir Linden, how is your wife?' he smiled, his cheeks red from the wine he was holding. 'Ah yes yes, very well thank you, you know how she is!' he laughed overly loudly. 'Have you met the new Earl of Rochester Miss Curnrow? Lovely Fellow just had a wonderful conversation with... Oh! Reginauld! Excuse me will you?' he stumbled away into the crowd, leaving Antonia with the handsome young stranger. She curtsied. 'Earl. How are you enjoying the evening?'

Alexander Francis Granville
The Earl of Rochester

❝ quiet● intelligent ● adventurous ● passionate ● hot - tempered❞

Dancing beside one of his oldest friends Alexander and William looked over to each other with boyish smirks each time they changed partners. The young women at the ball seemed to be of varying types, he could pick out those he would enjoy the company of quickly enough, and he tried to stay with these young women a little longer in the dance, though some didn’t seem so pleased. Whereas dancing with the others made each step feel like an eternity, if not longer. Alexander didn’t care too much for dancing, it felt like more of a formality and a duty now being Earl, he had to make his face known amongst the upper class to be accepted but he could tell people were watching and whispering. William, to Alexander’s right could sense the new Earl’s tension and leant over to him. “Pay no attention to them, just being snooty ‘as all...” Alexander smiled to William as they changed partners; he had still kept his harsh London accent whereas Alexander had tried his best to tone it down. He watched the young girl in front of him and smiled, she smiled back. Good start. Alexander cooed to himself. “And what is your name, my lady?” He didn’t keep his eyes off of her, though he would have rather looked anywhere else ’ Hannah Bode sir, and may I ask your name?’ Alexander spun the girl around “Alexander Granville, my lady.” The dance soon ended and Alexander took off in a different direction, he didn’t want to get too friendly too soon, the evening was young; though he planned to leave soon Alexander took his time in conversation.

Walking amongst the people he smiled and nodded, shaking hands and getting himself wrapped up in pointless polite conversation, but he could still feel many sets of eyes burning into the back of his head, it didn’t unnerve Alexander, he relished in it. Long gone were the days when he was cautious of other’s opinions; where he had tiptoed around people to please. He mimicked William’s previous words under his breath in a cockney accent before finding himself yet another glass of wine. Standing next to a man who obviously had too much to drink, Alexander found him the perfect candidate for a worthwhile conversation. “Sir Linden you say?” Alexander smiled, appearing to be devotedly interested in his conversation. “No, I very much agree with you Sir Linden, I will see what can be done; we shall not have fine men like yourself being put out of their way for something so minor.”

'Good Evening gentlemen.' Alexander looked up from his wine glass to the young woman stood before the pair. He stood back for a moment as the older man greeted her warmly, he picked up already that she was a little different, all the other young women always approached with such docile care that only bored Alexander. 'Earl. How are you enjoying the evening?' The Earl bowed with a smiled “It has been a fine evening so far, it has most definitely been a lovely way to meet so many people.” He paused “And how have you found your evening so far Miss Curnrow?” Alexander nodded along politely “Well Miss Curnrow, I am sure I haven’t seen you dance yet, I must ask you to dance with me, come the next song.” He subtly looked Antonia up and down; he was beautiful for her age, a few years younger than himself when he was bitten. He continued to talk to Antonia until he heard the next song about to start. “Come, you must dance.” Like William had said, the best way to socialise at a ball was to dance.

LIFE IS NEVER EASY FOR THOSE WHO DREAM
there is no cure for curiosity

{{ANTONIA ANNE CURNROW}}

Antonia seemed to catch her breath when he smiled, something different about it than all the others she had seen before, like there was something he was hiding. “It has been a fine evening so far, it has most definitely been a lovely way to meet so many people.” She smiled as if she found his reply amusing, and to be quite frank she did, it was as if he were trying to be as mundain and formal as everyone else. “And how have you found your evening so far Miss Curnrow?” She thought for a while before answering, 'The conversation is dry, and the room is hot, but I do rather enjoy the wine... may I?' she took his glass off of him.
Antonia was always chastised by her mother and peers for being too forward when in conversation, and told that she acted more like a young gentleman than a young woman. Of course that didn't stop her being the way she was, she found it completely absurd how everyone was too timid to ask the questions that they wanted to right out.
She took a sip from the wine glass, only to nearly choke on it due to his request of a dance. 'I have avoided dancing the whole evening, and you plan on ruining that trend with the next dance? I would decline, but wont in fear that you may think me a bore.' she laughed lightly, taking another drink. They talked some more about frivolities until the next song began. Maryanne and a few others walked past her to glare, but she wasn't too concerned. She had rather hoped that the Earl had forgotten about his offer to dance, she was quite wrong however as he led her onto the floor. She pleaded with all her heart that it was a dance her mother insisted on teaching her. Mercifully for her it was a simple line dance, in where half the way though, the woman swapped partners with the woman to her right, only to revert back to their original partner for the end.
Antonia took the Earl's hand to begin the dance, almost gasping in her surprise to find it cold, nto what she had expected at all. They began, and she began talking. 'So, I presume you shall be telling me your name instead of expecting me to adress you by your title the whole evening.' she said, her head held high as she recieved stares from other people. She smiled 'Mr Granville. Your first name was un-nescassary, but nice to know. Alexander.' she payed with the name around her mouth, almost toyed with it. 'And how do you know my brother?' Something caught her attention. The Earl seemed to be signalling the man next to him quite often. She herself glanced at him, his long, perfectly blonde hair was very handsome indeed, but he seemed more accustomed to the festivities than Granville was.

Alexander Francis Granville
The Earl of Rochester

❝ quiet● intelligent ● adventurous ● passionate ● hot - tempered❞

The conversation is dry, and the room is hot, but I do rather enjoy the wine...may I?’ As the young woman took his glass of wine, Alexander tried to act a little surprised, if not disgusted at the un ladylike behavior, but it was the most genuine gesture he had seen anyone make all evening. Guiding Antonia towards the floor he stood opposite, taking her by the hand holding back a small smile as he noticed her eyes open a little wider from his touch; he knew it was his temperature, but often Alexander decided to think otherwise. Joined to his right by William the pair nodded to each other, looking at the other’s partner.

“My name?” He raised an eyebrow “You are the first person to personally ask for my name, I am Alexander Granville.” He kept his timings with ease as the pair spoke; every so often her would look into her eyes. Alexander often found that the colour of a person’s eyes told you about their personalities; he concentrated softly on Antonia’s for a moment, taking in their colour before replying. “You’re brother, Oliver yes. To be quite truthful, I have not been fully acquainted with Mr Curnrow, I assumed this invitation was a formality, though I have appreciated it a great deal.’ For a while, as the dance came to a close Alexander became quiet, as if occupied in his own thoughts, he had seen Mr Curnrow, a few years back when Alexander was still amongst the lower classes, Oliver hadn’t noticed him at the time, nothing moor and a passing glance. Though even if he had ran into Alexander at the time, he was almost certain he wouldn’t have given Alexander the time of day. Taking back Antonia by the hand as they reunited at the end of the dance, Alexander nodded to her and looked over his shoulder to William who was fast approaching behind him.

“Miss Curnrow, let me introduce you to perhaps the most interesting man you could imagine to meet.” He wasn’t joking. Alexander had known William a while before he was bitten, trading with each other and taking in all London had to offer. A few weeks after he had been bitten, William and Alexander reunited with each other. William already knew what had happened and came clean about who he was, or what he was. William already a few decades to Alexander’s senior helped him, showed him what to do. It was a habit of theirs to run into each other like this every couple decades or so.
“Miss Curnrow, this is William Bennet.” William bowed to Antonia, taking her hand and kissing it gently his lips as cold as Alexander’s hands. “It is a pleasure to meet you.” His London accent came through thick, unlike those of the county but still remained an heir of sophistication. A natural thespian. Standing at full height William looked to the time and then over to Alexander, it felt like the two young men were having lengthy conversations without having to so much as utter a word. “Come Alexander, must talk a while before your carriage arrives, I am sure you have business to attend to in the morning?” Alexander nodded to William before turning to Antonia “It has been a pleasure to meet you Miss Curnrow, I hope you enjoy the rest of your evening.” Bowing , Alexander to walk beside William outside.

“Not too bad Granville, not too bad.” The earl looked up to him, puzzled “You are pulling this Earl facade off rather nicely.” Straightening his sleeves Alexander watched his carriage drive in “I am an Earl, I am the third Earl of Rochester.” William smiled “Do not be so harsh, I meant to say that you managed to talk like an Earl, no one had any compromising thoughts about you, you are in a very fortunate position here.” Alexander sighed “Not quite,” “What do you mean?” William questioned, Alexander spoke ever so quietly, his voice barely hear able over the music “In London it was all well and good pulling a whore off of the streets, but everyone knows everyone here William, I am going to run into trouble I can sense it. Besides, rumors are already spreading about me, I am sure you heard them” William shook off the very thought “You shall manage, as will I, Granville, I shall come by and we can discuss this further, but for now, go and get your rest.” Alexander stepped into the Carriage “Good evening Mr. Bennet.” William bowed “Good evening Lord Granville.”The Carriage ride back to his new manor proved to be draining, watching the darkened surroundings pass by Alexander thought back on the whole evening. He hadn’t cared for it much, too many people with too many restraints.

LIFE IS NEVER EASY FOR THOSE WHO DREAM
there is no cure for curiosity

{{ANTONIA ANNE CURNROW}}

Antonia found herself nodding along with Alexander's explanations about her brother, but not really listening. Instead more engrossed with him himself. He was the palest in skin that she had ever seen a man, and his hair, perfectly straight, apart from a few which were wispy at the front. She had no idea the exact age of him, but guessed around Jasper's age. She danced, slipping up a couple of times but hoping that he wouldn't notice. Also hoping that he wouldn't notice the look of constant curiosity on her face when looking at him. He caught her eye, once or twice.
Antonia was always commented on her looks, she didn't look anything like her sisters in characteristics, her bone structure was little different however. Her cheekbones were prominent, she had a long neck and small bones. Not at all good for bearing children her mother always told her, much to her distaste. Her other three sisters were much more suited for the like, curvaceous, with ample chests. Her chest was small, as was the rest of her. Her eyes, a deep brown, her hair a dark, dirty blonde, like her brothers, whereas her other sisters had all blue eyes and light blonde hair. Her brother's having moved away to leave her with her younger sisters, she did much look the odd one out.
Whenever he looked to her eyes, she felt like he was trying to figure her out, like he didn't understand her. Everyone clapped as the dance finished, she smiled as he took her hand and led her off the floor. She had warmed up a bit now, being small boned she was often cold unlike her sisters. She spotted Linette from across the room who was watching her intently with a flushed face from all the dancing. She smiled coyly before turning back to Alexander. The young blonde man that he had been signalling to earlier walked over to them. “Miss Curnrow, let me introduce you to perhaps the most interesting man you could imagine to meet.” she arched her eyebrows 'Interesting? Surely I shall be the judge of that.' she smiled as the young man bowed and took her hand “Miss Curnrow, this is William Bennet.” she laughed a little 'Yet again Mr Granville, an unnecessary first name, wonderful though it is.' the other man smiled, looking elegant in his own right. She noticed the harsh London accent right away however. 'Ah, from London I see. I assume my brother has met you in the stocks then.' she wanted to know where Alexander and William had known each other, but thought it best not to ask, seeming as she had already been so forward this evening. “Come Alexander, must talk a while before your carriage arrives, I am sure you have business to attend to in the morning?” she looked confused to them both, it was but early, and they were already leaving. Before she had time to voice her opinions, Alexander turned to her “It has been a pleasure to meet you Miss Curnrow, I hope you enjoy the rest of your evening.” They left.

Antonia was left feeling cheated in some way, like she wanted to spend more time with the young men, which was a rarity for her. Antonia never was the sociable young lady, she'd much rather spend time on her own reading or out walking. This was why it was rather strange to see her talking with people, and especially young bachelors.

For the rest of the evening she was avoided by alot of people, harassed by her mother, and asked to dance by Oliver and a few of his friends. Finally they arrived home at an early time in the morning. Her mother was still talking, and quite drunk. Her father ushered her upstairs and encouraged the girls to go to their beds, which they did so.

Antonia was left in the silence to her thoughts. All of the oil lamps had already been lit and now the shadows were dancing over her room. It was a large and ornate room, with wooden floors and a four poster bed. She slipped her thin fingers around the back of her corset to unlace herself. It was so much easier getting out of them as it was getting into them. It fell to her floor with a clatter. She picked it up and placed it on the stool to the foot of her bed. She then undressed, and pulled on her short night-gown which the doctor insisted on her having due to her hot-fevers she used to have during the night as a child. On the one hand, she hated being so exposed, on the other, she loved the feel of the air over her bare skin. She un-pinned all of her hair and plaitted it around her neck before climbing into bed. She knew that she would regret not brushing it in the morning, but still she was so tired, and had so much on her mind. She rolled over onto her side, and was just drifting off into a light sleep when she heard a light knock on the door.
The door clicked oped to show her younger, by a year, sister in her nightgown. 'Tonia, are you sleep?' she whispered lightly. Antonia sat up. 'No.' she whispered back. Linette closed the door behind her and padded over to join her sister in her bed, they both pulled the covers over their heads to speak to eachother. 'Antonia, were you dancing with the Earl of Rochester earlier?' She nodded 'Yes I was, a rather intruiging man...' her sister smiled 'And you like him?' Antonia scoffed at the childish question 'Don't be so immature Linny, of course I dont. I've only just met the man. And he's an Earl for heavens sake.' Linette giggled 'I shan't wonder if you shall ever let up that tough exterior of yours and let yourself fall in love.' Antonia didn't laugh, instead gritting her teeth risilliently 'Linette. I shall never understand why you can be so frivolous at times, and still have men running after you in leaps and bounds.'

A couple of days after the social ball her brother Oliver had hosted, Antonia still found herself thinking about the young man she had met that night. There were so many things she had wanted to ask him, but yet hadn't had the time. She felt the wind though her hair as she gently walked through the grass fields. She hadn't told her mother when she would be back, or where she was going. For the sole reason that she had no idea where she was going, and how long she was going to be. She just had to get out of the house. She came upon a stream and stopped to read, before getting up again to begin running through the fields, it made her feel so alive to do so. She didn't have a care in the world, and was oblivious to most things around her. She had no idea where she was, just assuming that she was still in Rochester, where she lived.

Alexander Francis Granville
The Earl of Rochester

❝ quiet● intelligent ● adventurous ● passionate ● hot - tempered❞

The carriage ride home was cold and tiresome; he had only ever been to a few social events in his lifetime that required Alexander to show a little class. Listening to people ramble on had drained him of the will to go on, laughing at his own melodramatic notions Alexander waited for his door to be opened before stepping out onto the gravel, mist bellowing over the manor, walking towards the front door a young servant boy stood in front of Alexander as if to take his coat, he laughed sharply, moving the boy to one side. “Move aside boy, you may enjoy this fine weather, but I should wish to get inside, if you please.” He wasted no time in making his way towards the study in the east wing where a fire was already lit and a small stack of letterheads were already set before a pot of ink. Alexander remembered the initial plan set by himself; that he was to get rid of the majority of writing in the evening so that if it struck him, Alexander could retire to his room earlier. He had never quite realised how out of routine he was going to become, not fully thinking over the role of an Earl; it didn’t seem to matter at the time, the thought of power and money was too attractive at the time for him to really wonder about the responsibilities that arose with it.

Sitting at the table Alexander began to waste no time, it seemed simple enough so far, for now all he had to do was write letters to those who wrote to him. Flicking through the pile, Alexander began to notice a theme in all of the letters, a theme of discontent. Everyone seemed to have either suspicions about each other or some petty quarrel. It wasn’t something that Alexander had to fix for the people; he wrote nearly the same reply for each person; that he would try his best to help them with their problems. As much as Granville despised whining, he felt that if he was going to gain the people of Rochester’s trust, he would have to dance to their tune for a little while, just as he found his feet and got use to his title. The fire roaring behind Alexander lulled him into a sense of calm, his study overlooking the garden; he couldn’t hear a whisper of the commotion at the front of the house.

William had walked miles, leaving the party as it began to slowly die down, not managing to bag himself a fine young lady; it seemed the easy ones were harder to come by in the country, “No matter!” He chirped, stumbling through a country lane. Reaching the long path to Alexander’s manor William began to shout and call out “Oi Granville!” William held no sophisticated restraint with his words, he sounded like any urchin off of the streets. Making his way to the large heavy wooden doors He slammed a few fists on the door, it was quite clear William was a little more than merry. A slim old man answered the door, only to be barged out of the way. Mockingly, William called out “Where is lord Granville!?! Come now my fine gentlemen! Quick quick! We must find him at once!” One servant boy ran off up the stairs to tell Alexander of the supposedly unwanted visitor “Send him this way, no questions.” The boy shot off and in a few moments William came crashing through the door. Alexander had moved positions, now sitting in a large chair with a glass of wine with a small smirk on his face. “And, what my sly fox are you grinning at?” William leant against the closed door. “Any man may be in good spirits and good temper when he is well dressed.” William raised an eyebrow to his calm and sophisticated tone, to which Alexander laughed and stood up “There ain’t much credit in that.” William nodded “That’s the Alex I know an’ love.” Offering William to sit opposite, Alexander poured him a drink of wine; knowing too well he had had more than his fair share of wine in the evening. William eyed up the glass, its thin silver patterns swirling around the glass, reflecting the dancing fire.

“Aren’t we the ‘umble one then Granville?” Alexander sat back and drank, “When someone can afford to possess these luxuries, it would be a crime not to possess them.” Alexander kept up his calm tone; he couldn’t have another servant raising suspicions about him. He had been lucky to have two servants who were like William and himself, he would soon talk to them, keep them around. But for now he had a guest to entertain. Alexander and William stayed awake for the whole night, catching up and reminiscing on their times gone by.
The sun was already beginning to pour through the window as the two began to stop talking. Looking at the sun brought Alexander right back to when he was first turned. He had always believed in the legend that vampires turned into the dust; but again it was William who had told him what was true and what wasn’t. He soon learned that Vampires could last up to seven or eight hours, any longer, their skin began to redden, any more than ten hours would leave a vampire weak and bedridden for a weak. They do drink blood and have heightened senses and strength, but cannot turn into mist, a bat or a wolf. Straightening his shirt Alexander got one of the maids to escort William to the west wing, where he would be staying for a while, he looked down to the young mousy haired girl and smirked, she wouldn’t last a minute alone with William. Making his way back towards his dressing room Alexander looked out over the grounds and wondered about the weather. The sun was shining, only a few wisps of cloud here and there. On a whim, Alexander decided that he should hold a ball one evening in the next week or so. Within a few moments Alexander had began to arrange things, he had decided that he would let William take care of most things, being far more used to such events. “Send the invites today would you?” Alexander sat in the dining room with William. “I shall get one of your little servant boys to do it, I fear I do not have the energy.” Alexander rose an eyebrow “I wonder why...” Thinking back to the maid he had not seen since showing William to his room. The ball was to be held the following week, all the nobility and high earners were invited, making sure that Curnrow family were invited for the sole purpose that he had to see Antonia again; there was something about her that interested him. A rare occurrence.

LIFE IS NEVER EASY FOR THOSE WHO DREAM
there is no cure for curiosity

{{ANTONIA ANNE CURNROW}}

Antonia had no idea where she was, just assuming that she was still in Rochester. Suddenly, coming to her senses once more, Antonia realised she had no idea where she was. Infact she was perfectly lost, and without a horse. However Antonia was never one to panic, and did rather get on with things logically and efficiently. She looked around for a moment, feeling the breeze turning all of a sudden into a gust. She walked in the direction she was going anyway, hoping that she would find herself back at home. Unfortunately, while she was walking, the sky grew darker, the clouds heavier and it started to rain. Heavily.

Antonia didn't count how many minutes or indeed hours that she was trudging in the accursed rain and mud for until she reached the large mannor house. She sighed, her hair that had been pinned up and curled nicely in the morn, now falling infront of her face, her clothes wet through, and her chest cold and heavy. She didn't recognise the large home looming over her, and it was cirtainly nobody she knew seeing the sheer size of it. Not wanting to impose on anyone at that time of the day, in the rain, looking like a bedraggled maid, she walked around to the stables and courtyard. There were still men hurridly rushing to put things away and clear out stables and the like when she walked there. A man in a flat cap and a mustache walked up to her 'By Gar young lady, you're soaked. In such a pretty dress too. What can I do you for?' She sighed, looking up at the older man with the thick country accent. 'I was wondering if I might borrow a horse to get home. I have no idea where I am and I should suppose i'd be rather ill by the time I find a place that I recognised.' The man looked down to her 'Well I've not got the authority to give away one of 'is Lordship's horses. I could ask him now for you but I think 'ee's out.' Antonia groaned 'Oh please, i'm sure he wouldn't mind. My name is Antonia Curnrow. Perhap's you've heard of my family? We're quite well known about these parts...' the man looked her up and down 'Curnrow... yeah i've 'erd of you. Doesn't make no diffrence if the Earl's never 'erd of you though.' Anonia's heart jumped with the new information 'What a stoke of luck! The Earl of Rochester?' The man nodded 'Aye, that's 'im' she smiled happily 'Ah, well I was speaking with Alexander just a night ago! At my brother's Ball. Of course we are good friends. He wouldn't mind at all if i borrowed a horse of his for the eve.' The man's eyebrow was now raised 'Are you sure miss?' she was a convincing liar, of course she could never be sure what to think of the newly dubbed Earl, she only hoped he would agree to it. 'Alright then miss. As long as I have you write a note for 'is Lordship.' she nodded hurridly, beginning to shake.

The man took her into an empty room with just tacking in, ginving her a peice of parchement and a pen.

Alexander.
I've "Borrowed" your horse
I shall ride it back to you on the morrow if i find the time
If not i shall consider it a gift
yours Antonia Crunrow

she smiled looking down at her handiwork. She wondered if she was being too cocky, too forward. She soon dismissed this thought, knowing that if she had been, she'd soon find out. The man she'd met earlier set up a horse for her. The saddle and tacking was of real excellence; not to mention the horse itself. It was around sixteen and a half hands high and a stunning black coat. 'One of his finest horses miss. Then again, they're all pretty fine.' she smiled upon mounting him 'Thankyou very much, your efforts shan't go a miss. What is your name?' the man's cheeks flushed red 'George. George Worthignton miss.' she smield down to him now 'Well then George, I suspect I shall be seeing you very soon.' she gave the horse a kick to the ribs and walked on.

Once on a horse, it didn't take her long to find her way home. When she did turn up however it was dark, her mother was fretting, and her sisters were direly worried. She however was cold and wet, and just wanted to crawl into bed. She didn't suspect that she'd have a problem with getting hot that night.

When Antonia woke in the morning, she felt as if she had been out on the drink the night before. She had a pulsing headache, she was coughing almost constantly and she was running a fever. The cold had gotten to her. Instead of worrying about herself however, she was more concerned about the horse she had borrowed from the Earl the evening previous. 'Linny, let me go. I must return his gelding as i promised i would! Let me go!' each breath was laden with a heavy cough from her chest as she feebly tried to raise herself from her bed. Suddenly, a screech was heard from downstairs 'MAMMA! MAMMA! AN INVITE! MAMMA!!!' of course it was Emily, screaming to high heavens was always her prefferred method of communtication. She ran up the stairs. 'Tonia! Linny! Where is mamma?' Linny looked over to her younger sister 'She's gone out. Whatever is the matter with you Emily?' the young girl ran into the room and thrust the elaborate envelope into Linette's hands. She opened it with great care and read it out.

The Earl of Rochester formally invites you;
The Curnrow Family,
To a ball to be held on the eve of next tuesday.
His Lordship shall look foward to seeing you all there.

Linette squealed 'Oh Antonia! You must have struck a chord with the Earl at Oliver's ball! Oh! How exiting!' Antonia however was not listening to her sister's friviolous chortling, instead panicking herself 'When is it?' she said in a soft, frail voice 'This coming tuedsay? This coming tuesday? But it is Sunday today is it not? Linette how shall I ever be able to show my face there if I don't return his horse? How shall I go with this rotten illness!? Linette!' her sister was hushing her 'Look, Antonia, it's okay, all will be well. I shall send one of the yard boys to ride the horse back. Besides, you shall be well for tuesday, you know you have a strong constitution.' Antonia shook her head 'No Linny! I must return the Gelding myself, I told Alexander in my letter that I would do so.' the room was quiet for a second. Both her sisters were looking at her 'What?'
'Alexander?'
'Letter!?' they looked at eachother as if they both knew something Antonia didn't. 'I wasn't aware that you were exchanging letters Antonia. Or that you are on a first name basis with the man!' Emily giggled 'Imagine if you married the Earl.' Antonia pulled herself up, coughing and spluttering as she did. 'Enough! I shall hear no more of this nonsense! I shall return the horse myself on the night of the Ball, that is if I am well by then; which I suspect I shall be.'

She was indeed well by the day of the ball, and for the first time in her life, looking forward to it. Her mother was quite bemused and overjoyed at her daughter's new-found interest in dresses and dancing. Antonia fretted all day on what to wear. Her hair was brushed and ready by lunchtime, her corset done up an hour before they were set to leave and her dress put on promptly afterward. She was wearing a new white dress, the square neckline indicating her singularity. She worse a blood-red ribbon around her small waist, a new one that she had bought to match the one in her hair and the colour of the lining of her black hooded cloak. She laced it up around her neck and walked down the stairs, her riding boots on and a small bag on the saddle holding her dance shoes.

For a moment, she thought she might of gotten away with leaving the house earlly with a pair of risding boots and a cloak on, however, just as she was about to leave the door, her mother turned the corner. 'Antonia. Where in heavens name do you think you are going?' Antonia sighed and turned to face her short mother 'I have to ride the Earl's horse back to him. If not I shall never be able to show my face in public again for the roumers.' Her mother looked at her for a moment before replying 'Okay then. Hurry dear.' Antonia had to register what she had just said twice 'Pardon me mother?' 'I said Go! Off you trot dear! Musn't be late!' she shooed her out the door and shut it firmly behind her. 'Odd.'

Riding through the crisp night air thrilled Antonia, especially as she bolted past a convoy of carriges, up the main path and past the green toward the Earl's mannor. She arrived at the front, where many men and women were walking up the main stairs and through the entrance. Antonia rode around for a while before spotting who she wanted. 'George!' she called out. The older man turned from what he was doing and smiled, waving over to her. She trotted over and dismounted with a hand from the stablekeeper. 'I trust you delivered my message then? I am only regretful that I couldn't return him to you sooner. Although my groomsmen have had him well looked after.' George smiled 'I dont doubt it miss. And yes, I had it delivered.' she laughed lightly 'How wonderful. Now tell me, you don;t think you could keep these somewhere for me?' she hitched up her dress showing her riding boots. She took them off, replaced them with her dancing shoes and handed the booths to him. 'Thankyou George, please, give them to your wife. I shall buy another pair. Oh! I almost forgot!' She reached into the satchel on the saddle and pulled out an envelope, handing it to him. He looked inside and gasped 'But miss! This is nearly twenty pounds! I cant possibly accept this!' she smiled on seeing his face 'Oh please, I insist. Now, you'd better get this fellow some water. I have a dance to enjoy.'

Antonia forgot she was wearing her cloak, and stepped right inside to the ballroom, hooded and all. Luckily the whispers reminded her of it, she reached her small fingers up to the black velvet hood and pulled it down, the alarming red silk inlay showing itself. She looked around the room for the Earl whilst un-ribboning the cloak and handing it to a maid. She picked a glass of red wine off of a tray that a man was carrying around and sipped it gently. She couldn't see anyone her own age that she card to talk to, still looking around for the Earl. She looked tothe dancers, moving through the people, sometimes casually pausing to talk to a few elderly members before moving on, weaving in and out of rooms. Finally she decided to stop, leaning against a wall, like a bore, she took another drink from her glass and hoped that she would find something to do soon.

Alexander Francis Granville
The Earl of Rochester

❝ quiet● intelligent ● adventurous ● passionate ● hot - tempered❞

Sunday evening was drawing in as Alexander was once again making the dreary carriage journey back towards his manor, William was still around; Alexander had a feeling that he was getting comfortable and could sense that William wouldn’t be choosing to leave any time soon. He didn’t mind, Alexander enjoyed the company of an old friend now and then but he didn’t want William to get too comfortable and make complications for him, Alexander was just getting used to have a Monarch appointed title as it was. Arriving in the unseasonably heavy mist that surrounded his grounds, The Earl had only made a few steps towards the door before one of the stable hands or groundsmen came running up with a piece of parchment. “My Lord, M’Lord!” He called out, seeming a little out of breath. “This ‘ere is from a young Curnrow lass came by yesterday afternoon, soaked to the bone if me eyes were not mistaken.” Alexander nodded along and unfolded the parchment, reading the message aloud.

Alexander.
I've "Borrowed" your horse
I shall ride it back to you on the morrow if i find the time
If not i shall consider it a gift
yours Antonia Crunrow

Alex closed the note and slipped it into the inside pocket of his out coat and continued to walk to the door. “Did she return it?” He glanced back to the older man. “Not as of yet, M’lord.” Alexander didn’t reply, instead continued to walk indoors and up to his study. Not looking up as he turned the handle, Alexander was a little surprised to see William sat in his chair and drinking what looked like a bottle of expensive wine from the cellar. Putting the note into the fire he watched small flecks of ash float upwards into the chimney. “She’s a feisty one, I’ll tell you that.” Alexander looked over to him, agreeing completely but decided to pursue his reasoning with a slight raise of an eyebrow. “You know what I mean.” William stood with a cocky grin. “She is still young, but not so young as her sisters, she is coming out of the acceptable age of marriage and took your horse! What sort of respectable young lady goes out without an escort or relative? Then takes your horse as if it her own. I tell you, you have picked a good’un.” Alexander rolled his eyes. “I have not picked any young lady, you know I do not favour relations like that, they get hard to manage after too long.” William took in a deep breath and sighed. “You are the dullest man I know, pray, what happened to the Alexander I used to know?” Taking the bottle of wine off of William Alexander shrugged his shoulders “Agreed to taste higher society, I cannot just walk through these fields and small towns, luring whatever young maid I wish, everyone knows everyone here, William, this is not London.” He stood up to leave when William lounged back. “I am sure you are growing quite hungry, I am certain you can feel it, burning up inside you...when was the last time you fed My Lord? At least a week, if not more...” Hand on the door, Alexander stood still. Despite his age, Alexander was still a relatively new vampire, William centuries older than him; he knew just how to press Alexander’s buttons to make him do exactly what he wanted.

It was mere minutes before the pair were hooded and cloaked in a carriage being driven a mile outside of the closest market town where they began to walk towards the town centre, William whined why they couldn’t have just been taken straight to the town. “Because, if my carriage is noticed, you’ll be the one to pay!” Pulling down his hood William scowled at The Earl. “You are far too paranoid for your own good! Besides, did we really have to dress like this?” He looked down to their slightly faded and torn attire. “Yes, now stop complaining or you can just turn back?” The two now mysterious looking men made their way to an inn in silence. Alexander’s hair was loose and hung over his face a little. It seemed he had no worry of being recognised, farm folk and all. Within moments he had already chosen his prey, there was a small red head near the door that he had already made eye contact with. He didn’t care where William was, the burning pain in his chest was growing stronger, his eyes were growing darker with hunger. Alexander managed a drink before he went back over to the young lady and started to lay his charm on her. It didn’t take him long to convince the young lady to accompany him outside. He led her through a few back alleys to a dead end. “Shh..” Alexander cooed as he pressed the tipsy girl up against the cold brick wall, kissing her forcefully to keep her quiet, after a while he couldn’t restrain himself any longer, sliding a hand up her side Alexander kissed softly down her neck until he found the right place, he could feel her blood pulsating against his lips. Sliding his hand up to her shoulder, The Earl tightly grasped the young girl’s mouth and bit down on her neck. Convulsing under his weight blood was pouring everywhere, covering both the girl and Alexander. He made his feed quick, taking only what he needed, in fear of passer by hearing the girl’s muffled screams. Dropping her limp blood drenched body to the floor Alexander notice she was still moving, if only a little. She was sure to die of blood loss in the next few minutes. Pulling the hood over his face Alexander didn’t hesitate to make his way back to the manor.

Feeling energised again Alexander almost ran the twelve mile journey back to his manor, avoiding all of the maids and servant boys and locking himself in the large bathroom. With no time to heat water Alexander ran himself a cold bath; dropping his clothes on the floor beside him Alexander stepped into the bath and closed his eyes, the water around him turned red, his hair swirling gently around his face. Only now did The Earl wonder where his right hand man had gotten to earlier.

In fact, William didn’t show up until the Tuesday that the ball was to be held, sending Alexander into a panicking frenzy, of course he did not show this to those around him, as usual, his lordship appeared to be calm and collected. As the time came to get ready, Alexander took no time at all, going through the same routine he had before, choosing out his attire in his own time, and dressing in his own time, he left William to fret on his own, Alexander had other things on his mind. As people began to arrive Lord Granville descended the stairs to greet them, most walked through his doors with a pleasant smile, though others still seemed unsure of him; shaking his hand with a hint of caution before moving on to mingle. Alexander did the same, keeping an eye out for Antonia. It had not been longer than fifteen minutes before Alexander was desperate to get away from the small groups of people littering his home. He regretted letting William coax him into holding such an event where he could not get away so early so easily. Turning to get himself another glass of wine Alexander caught sight of Antonia stood against the wall. Excusing himself from the group of gentlemen he was talking to The Earl made his way across the room towards the young Curnrow girl, standing beside her. “Good evening Miss Curnrow, Glad to see you returned the horse you “borrowed”.” He quickly noticed that she had probably been stood by the wall for a while. “I take it you are not one for this kind of function Miss Curnrow, or perhaps, mine is not up to standards?”

LIFE IS NEVER EASY FOR THOSE WHO DREAM
there is no cure for curiosity

{{ANTONIA ANNE CURNROW}}

Antonia had seen the Earl excuse himself from the gabble of gentlemen in order to make his way over to speak to her. She looked absentmindedly out into the crowd with the smallest of smirks playing on her lips. “Good evening Miss Curnrow, Glad to see you returned the horse you “borrowed”.” She hadn't been intending on the reaction she gave. Turning her body almost instantaniously to him, shefurrowed her brow in apologies 'I do sinceerly apologise for my not bringing your horse back on the date I had suggested in my note. Infact, the note itself was intended to be as a folly, or a merryment indeed. I did hope that you'd realise. I tried desperately hard to get the gelding back to you, however such an awful excuse as it may seem, my sisters would not let me rise from my bed. I was apparently too ill to...' she trailed off, believing that she sounded too much like Linette; Which was never the best of things.

“I take it you are not one for this kind of function Miss Curnrow, or perhaps, mine is not up to standards?” She stared straight out into the group of genlemen making their way around the room to the various young ladies, preying upon them almost. 'No, no... i'm sure this ball is more than wonderful, that infact, people shall be talking about it for weeks...' she paused, thinking about whatshe had just said and the truthfulness about it 'But no... not I... I'm afraid you shall find me totally repulsive after this as I assume you relish in the festivities of the evening but... No I'm not paricularly enjoying the evening... I am however enjoying your comany and the conversation you bring...' she paused to laugh courtly to herself 'And the wine.' she finished off the last of her glass and set it down on a mahogany table. 'I can tell you and I shall be aquainted well Mr Granville.' she looked to him as he spoke.

His skin was porcelain, and his hair raven in contrast. Tied back like the last time, which led her to wonder what it would look like when it was loose. She came to the conclusion that she was jelous. Jelous because ever since she was a little girl, she was told by her mother that she was un-attractive. She always said that it was 'such a shame' that she turned out like she did. A dirty clomplection with dirty-blonde hair to match, quite handsome on her brothers but not so much for her. Her tiny frame was hardly apt for bearing children, and her small chest making her look like a small boy in her open-chested dresses. She snapped out of it, looking up to him once more, and in her rush to speak, interrupted him without so much as an apology. 'Mr Granville. Wont you take me outside for a walk. I find this heat simply outrageous. And what's more, i'd love to see your grounds... as they are, i suppose, much more grand than ours...' she laughed a little snopotily before taking his arm and leading him out with no air of grace whatsoever. People turned to talk, but only a small few, the rest were having too much of a good time to worry.

They were soon outside, Antonia had collected her cloak on the way out and had draped it around her shoulders, pulling the hood up over her head. She looked rather mysterious in black, and couldn't help wonder why she shouldn't wear it the whole time. But she wasn't morning, nor was she in grief.

The night air was cold, a sudden contrast to the heat of the hall. She shivered slightly, although smiling to herself. The first thing she did once down the stairs, was look up to the sky. The stars were bright in the sky, nothing to pollute them from being there. She smiled, sighing contentedly. She loved being outdoors. 'May I say,' she said, with new found vigor, 'That the gelding I borrowed from you, and yet again I apologise for not returning sooner, was simply marvllous. I mean, wonderful to ride. Was he broken in young?' the crunch of gravel underneath her feet sent shivers up her spine. It was awfully quiet out, once the arrivals had finished turning up, just the gentle bray of horses from the stables. She couldn't help but think to herself that she enjoyed terribly the company of the young Earl.

Alexander Francis Granville
The Earl of Rochester

❝ quiet● intelligent ● adventurous ● passionate ● hot - tempered❞

Alexander nodded with a small smile, knowing far too well that Antonia had not been listening to him for the past few minutes. He did not mind much, he was filling the space with general polite chitchat, something he had become quite talented at, commenting on the weather and such. The Earl, though not minding the whispers and rumours that seemed to be buzzing around the few people who cared to see him being practically dragged from the room, through a tall set of French styled doors out onto the gravel, leading to look over the majority of his vast grounds. For a moment, Alexander wondered what to say to the young Curnrow girl, the silence of his grounds did feel overwhelming, glad that Antonia broke the silence. 'That the gelding I borrowed from you, and yet again I apologise for not returning sooner, was simply marvllous. I mean, wonderful to ride. Was he broken in young?' Alexander nodded. “He was, that is correct, all of my horses are.” He caught her eye looking over into the direction of the stables. Taking Antonia’s arm Alexander began to lead her down a long set of stone stairs. “Would you care to see the others? It seems you can appreciate a good gelding when you see one.” Continuing down the wide path towards his stables, there were a good few horses, the gelding Antonia rode earlier being the only all black. The others a deep brown. The air was chill, keeping Antonia quite close to his side he looked at each of his horses, “Pray, tell me, how many horses does your household own?” Alexander nodded, “A lovely number.”

LIFE IS NEVER EASY FOR THOSE WHO DREAM
there is no cure for curiosity

{{ANTONIA ANNE CURNROW}}

Antonia was thrilled to be talking about one of her passions. He obviously knew his facts, as did she. 'That's right to have it done, get the children to ride them when they're young. I only wish my mother had done so to our horses, we could ride many more than are available now if she had...' she trailed off, her eyes flickering over to the direction of the stables she had found herself in the other day. The earl had obviously noticed. "Would you care to see the others? It seems you can appreciate a good gelding when you see one.” She smiled brightly 'I would love to see them.' she walked down with him, walkind around the stables was like trying to find her way around half of the east wing in her house. He had a considerable amount more of horses than she. All of them bay or brown, a few blonde, but only one black. “Pray, tell me, how many horses does your household own?” she turned her head to look at him 'Oh... eight.' she felt inferior at the small number, almost embaressed “A lovely number.” She smiled at how polite he was. Diverting her attention, she walked up to a large bay 'I see he is a stallion. Are you thinking of breeding? Not to be forward but my sister owns a Salerno mare that she has been meaning to breed from for a year...' she stroked down the long nose of the aminal, casually flicking her gaze from him to the earl as he spoke. 'Ah I see. I suppose that's for the best anyway. She never rides it nowadays anyway, I should rather say she would only want it breeded for the novelty... ' she paused 'I myself have a pinto mare. I broke her in myself and I am the only one she will have ride with her.' she relished in speaking about her horses. 'I'm afraid that she has become to small to ride now however. I have to make do with her how she is... That's why I suppose I found your beautiful gelding such a wonder... He is stunning don't you agree...' she looked across the courtyard to where it was standing, feeling a question bubbling up inside her. 'Do you ride Mr Granville? Its just, if I may be so bold, may we ride... Just for a while, I mean, it is a wonderful night but I would understand if you wanted to get back to the evening...'

Alexander Francis Granville
The Earl of Rochester

❝ quiet● intelligent ● adventurous ● passionate ● hot - tempered❞

Alexander watched Antonia with the horses; she knew what she was talking about and appreciated the time money and care that had gone into his particular favourite gelding. He guessed to assume that Antonia too preferred this horse. 'I see he is a stallion. Are you thinking of breeding? Not to be forward but my sister owns a Salerno mare that she has been meaning to breed from for a year...' Alexander looked over to the black horse, he had never thought of breeding from it, nor did he particularly want to. “Not for the time being, I already have two breeding stallions.” Alexander tightened the ribbon on his hair as Antonia told him over her horse and the upbringing of their horses, it gave him an idea; but he would wait and see before putting it into action. About to suggest returning to the ball Alexander smiled to Miss Curnrow 'Do you ride Mr Granville? Its just, if I may be so bold, may we ride... Just for a while, I mean, it is a wonderful night but I would understand if you wanted to get back to the evening...' Alexander took Antonia by the arm again leading her away from the gelding and towards a different group of horses. “Nonsense, we may ride for a while if you wish. But we should really be brief I have met your mother today, she seems a wonderful woman and I would hate for her to fret for the terrible rumours I can but only imagine being woven together by those noticing our absence.” Saddling up one of the dark sandy brown Geldings He helped Antonia on before saddling an mounting his one, a dirty blonde. “We must leave him,” Alexander nodded to the black Gelding. “He could do with a rest and being tended by the stable boys.” Wasting no more time Alexander lead them into an open field near the stables, it was not a beautifully decorated as the other parts of his grounds, but its purpose was for riding in.
Alexander was a superb rider, after all he had had centuries practise, he watched Antonia who was simply magnificent, she still held her grace as she rode. If he had the time, he would have partaken in some friendly competition but Antonia’s horse seemed to get it’s foot caught in a rabbit hole causing it to tumble with Antonia still on it. Jumping off of the horse in mid motion Alexander ran over to Antonia. “Are you alright? Here, come now.” Placing his arm under hers, Antonia’s over his shoulder. He picked her up with ease and stood Antonia up. Checking she was okay. “That was quite a fall you took there.” He looked over to the horse and sighed, it had been injured and in no condition to ride back. “Don’t worry about the gelding, I will get one of the stable boys to come and take care of it. Now let’s get you back.” Helping her on his horse Alexander sat in front her and reached back to Antonia’s hands, bringing them around his waist, flying off towards the stables.

LIFE IS NEVER EASY FOR THOSE WHO DREAM
there is no cure for curiosity

{{ANTONIA ANNE CURNROW}}

Antonia looked at the horse she was to be riding. They were indeed all fine horses, not as attractive as her pinto in her opinion, but fine none the less. She mounted it and waited for the Earl to show her to where they would be riding. The field was marvellous, she could still hear the faint babble of socialising from the ballroom, but with it still being dark. It seemed like miles away. Antonia wasted no time in waiting for the Earl to begin, giving the horse the comands she cantered off into the night. Looking judt behind her, she could see the young earl, he was a good rider, like he had been doing it for years. Her best dress wasnt the best thing for riding in however. Sometimes, when her mother was out and nobody was on her grounds, she borrowed a pair of the farm boy's trousers to ride in. She knew it completely unacceptable, but still, it was farm more practical. If anyone saw her doing it apart from the farm hands, she would surely be hung and quarterded with the gossip.

She looked up to the sky as she rode, aweing at the wonder of the stars. Suddenly, the horse buckled, it fell forwards and hel along with it. Her head smashed into the ground. She started laughing immediately and loudly at that. Her cheeks were flushed red, her dress covered in mud and grass-stained and her hair dishevelled, but she felt alive. The Earl's concern only made her laugh more “Are you alright? Here, come now.” she giggled as he picked her up from the floor “That was quite a fall you took there.” 'God wasn't it Spectacular... stop fussing over me, how is the poor beast...' She looked over to the fallen animal, it was lame “Don’t worry about the gelding, I will get one of the stable boys to come and take care of it. Now let’s get you back.” She was left smiling 'I can't let you walk!' she exclaimed as he helped her onto his horse, she soon silenced when he sat infront of her. His touch was cold as he brought her hands around his waist. She stopped breathing momentairily as she moved closer to him, her chest against his back. It was awfully unheard of, but what else could she do? Her horse was lame, and she couldn't be expected to walk back when she didnt know her way; she also couldn't expect an Earl to walk anywhere in his finery.

Whilst the were riding back, she felt a sharp pain to her forehead. Letting go of the Earl with one arm, wrapping the other one under his arm and holding his shoulder to her, she reached up toward her head, her fingers touching something warm and thick, she brought her fingers infront of her eyes. Blood. She had indeed injured herself, but it was nothing. She rather felt worse for the horse.

When back at the stables, the Earl dismounted first, helping her down. She jumped down into the light, only to see the state of her dress. She laughed a little 'Oh. My mother is going to be rather happy...' she laughed a little more, stopping to look up to the Earl 'Mr Granville, thankyou ever so much for the glorious evening. I must say, i've enjoyed myself more than I thought I'd might.' she paued and smiled with him as he replied. 'I would enter back into the festivities with you, but I'm afraid, with the current state I'm in, half of the congregation might faint with gossip!' she smiled 'I will take my family's carriage back . Please... don't worry about this...' she gestured up to her head, seeing his eyes flickering from the cut to her again. 'Tis but a scratch. I've done much worse... feel free to tell everyone that I was feeling faint, so you escorted me outside to send me home. I would think no less of you... Thankyou... once again. I shan't be keeping you any longer. Goodnight Mr Granville.' She turned to walk away, when she was quite sure he couldn't see her, licking the blood from her fingers before climbing up into her carriage.

Once home, Antonia had her wound tended to and her dress taken to be washed. She lay in the copper bath tub, soaking away the dirt for almost an hour. SHe pulled on her night-dress, brushing her hair leasurly for another half an hour before plaiting it and lying in bed. She smiled to herself, thinking about the night's events. She was soon asleep.

Antonia woke in the morning to the undescribable, easrsplitting shreiks of her younger sister Emily. 'Tonia! TONIA! Toni... oh there you are!' Antonia sat up with a groggly glare 'Of course this is where I am. Where Else would I be?' Emily ran in 'Oh do be quiet, just this once Antonia! There is a gift for you! In the yard!' Antonia looked puzzled at her sister 'Emily, what are you talking about?' Emily huffed to herself, stading off the bed again 'Just come down will you?' she walked quickly out of her room. Antonia sunk back down into her bed, only for Emily to pop her head around the door again 'Well... Come on!' Antonia groaned once more, dragging herself out of her bed and slipped on a longer nightgown. She walked slowly down the stairs, only to be greeted by her mother. 'Where did you go last night? Oh, never mind that now, just, hurry up to the yard will you. Emily may explode with exitement. Antonia was now beginning to be curious. She didn't bother with shoes, and instead walked around to the yard on the grass, her feet getting wet with dew. When she turned the corner into the horse yard however, she was overcome with shock. 'Oh m...' she clasped a hand to her mouth as the beautiful black gelding reared and breyed at her arrival. It was being held down by two farmhands with ropes at its bit. 'It came with a letter!' Elizabeth said quietly, handing it to her. Antonia, hand firmly clasped over her mouth, took the envelope and opened it with one hand, all the while looking toward the horse. She lowered her eyes from the horse to the letter, her hand shaking slightly.

Miss Antonia Crurnrow,
I hope that you enjoyed your evening, as I thoroughly enjoyed mine,
please take this gelding as a token of my appreciation for your presence,
I know he will have a most wonderful rider in your hands.
This gift however comes with a slight condition; It would be a delight if you were to join me for dinner one evening in the coming week,
Yours
Earl Granville

Antonia stared at the handwriting, still shaking. 'Well... who's it from?' She looked up to her sisters 'Hmm?' Linette laughed 'I said, who's the gift from?' She looked down again 'Oh... Mr Granville.' The sisters gasped 'Mr Granville?! The Earl of Rochester?!' Antonia nodded quietly 'What does the letter say? Give me the letter!' Emily snatched the letter off of her older sister, Antonia was quick however, and snatched it back. 'It simply says that... that he's awfully sorry that I was I'll last night, and that as compensation for not being able to enjoy the wonderful evening, I should take his horse... and join him for dinner later this week...' Linette and Emily looked to eachother and laughed loudly. At that moment, their mother arrived outside. 'My Dear Lord! Where in heaven's name did this come from?!' Antonia of course didn't get a chance to speak as her other sisters filled their mother in with the details. They all at this point started laughing giddily, all apart from Antonia herself and Elizabeth, who stood tothe right of her. 'When are you to go for the evening?' she said quietly, leaning over slightly 'In this coming week.' Elizabeth nodded.

In the following week, Antonia rode the Gelding that she suitably named Jack more than three times. She sent a letter to the Earl on the tuesday.

Alexander.
I'd be honored to tell you that I'll be able to join you this Friday evening
Expect me promptly at Six, on the hour.
Thankyou for the gelding, I believe I shall forever be in your debt
it sent my sisters quite a stir
Antonia Curnrow.

Friday came, here sisters woke her, expecting her to be fully ready and prepared in the art of dinner conversation. Antonia didn't listen, instead she made sure she was looking right for the occasion. A cream striped dress, brown leather wrist-gloves, a blue cropped jacket and her riding boots. Her hair, as much as she would have loved it to be loosly plaitted, was tied up, two thin blue ribbons through it to match her jacket.

She set off at five on the back of her new gifted Gelding and arrived there promptly at six like she had written. She was greeted at the door by one of a probable many servants, her cloak, jacket and gloves taken from her. She was then escorted into the dining room. She sat there alone for a while, staring down the long, polished table. It was much like hers, only she expected, more expensive. The door at the other end of the room opened and she stood.

Alexander Francis Granville
The Earl of Rochester

❝ quiet● intelligent ● adventurous ● passionate ● hot - tempered❞

Alexander sent Antonia off on her way in the family’s carriage, urging the driver to make no diversions. He felt oddly guilty for cutting her evening short, injuring Miss Curnrow in the process. Walking back through the stables and inwards towards the large French glass doors, the heat from all of the people walking, dancing and mingling really was stifling, Alexander had nearly enough time to take himself a drink before a young man approached him, obviously being forced by his wife who frequently looked over her shoulder to the pair. “Good evening Mr. Granville, might I say what an extravagant evening you have held.” Alexander smiled faintly “Thank you, it has been a pleasure to arrange and hold.” The young man quickly piped up what seemed like courage “Were you not accompanied outside by one of Curnrow’s daughters? Pray, where is she now?” Taking a sip from his glass Alexander looked back to the set of doors. “Miss Curnrow and I were talking of her elder brother’s ball the previous week when she came over feeling quite flustered and faint. I escorted her outside whilst her carriage came around to take her home.” The man feeling a little embarrassed for asking quickly writhed his way out of the situation, ‘Ah, I see, I hope she regains her full health and spirit soon.’ And made his way back towards his wife, leaving Alexander feeling very smug.

Without Antonia to occupy the rest of his evening, The Earl found himself mingling with various groups of people, weaving in out, sharing false witty anecdotes and occasionally grudgingly accepted to dance with a few businessmen’s daughters. That seemed to be the main focus on people’s minds; marrying off their children. Alexander was often asked why he was not yet married to some young lady with bouncing ringlet’s, ready to start a family. Alexander gave the same explanation each time that he was waiting on the right young woman at the right time. His reply left the men scoffing and the women sighing, he was a man of romance.

Surprisingly the even went by quicker than he had expected, it felt like only a few minutes before the last few people were shaking his hand and making their way towards their carriages. Finally the main doors being closed by tired servants Alexander took another drink, making his way towards his wing of the manor. He had no doubt that William had either retired to his room or gone out into the town again, unlike Alexander who fed for necessity William killed for sport, being older and more experienced he had never been caught, the bodies often never found.

Alexander was often not so lucky. A passerby had seen him one night in London down the back of an alleyway, he had to kill the middle-aged man too, he didn’t drink from him, just cut the man’s throat and left him with the young lady’s lifeless body to die.

Opening the door to his bedroom, the room was extravagantly decorated, everything emanating its expense. Alexander walked through without really batting an eye; he had become used to being surrounded by riches. Untying his hair Alexander pushed his head over, before flicking it back. When untied his hair fell to his chest, it never needed to be brushed, it never seemed to knot. Undressing and placing the clothes folded on a table at the end of his bed Alexander lay looking up, not feeling tired in the slightest, he probably wouldn’t sleep that night.

After reading Antonia’s letter, Friday too came around swiftly, he had all of the maids making sure the whole manor was spotless, threatening to hang them himself if he found so much as a speck of dust behind a vase. The Earl took the same approach with his appearance, he had spent a few ours making sure he was acceptable. His frenzied actions were enough to make both William and himself laugh. He had never been one to worry about women, all either of them had to do was lay on the charm a little but he felt different about Antonia, she something else. The clock had struck six and within moments of the last chime the door was opened and he heard her footsteps on the cold floor. Sat in the small drawing room, Alexander set down his glass and opened the door through towards the dining room. There he saw Antonia stood, with a smile, he greeted her with a small bow, walking up the length of the dining room, taking her right hand, kissing it. “Good evening.” The table was already laid but dinner was not yet prepared. ‘Please, follow me,’ He led Miss Curnrow into the drawing room where he offered her a seat before sitting himself. ‘ Pouring Antonia a drink Alexander looked out of the tall window towards the sunset. ‘How is your head? I must apologise for taking you riding the other night, in hindsight I would have preferred to show you the horses during the day.’ He looked back over to Antonia, ‘The gelding is fine and well, how are you treating your ninth?”

LIFE IS NEVER EASY FOR THOSE WHO DREAM
there is no cure for curiosity

{{ANTONIA ANNE CURNROW}}

Antonia didn't smile as he walked towards her, instead raising an eyebrow, a meschevius grin playing on her lips. 'That it is.' She replied, before following th young Earl into his drawing room. ‘How is your head? I must apologise for taking you riding the other night, in hindsight I would have preferred to show you the horses during the day.’ She waved about her arm carelessly, the cut on her head amost faded now 'Don't apologise for such frivolities as a cut on the head. The riding was a splendid part of my evening. And I could see the horses perfecty well. I much preferred to be in their company rather than the dry convesations of monotonous old men.' Antonia brought the glass to her lips, pausing to ask how th wounded horse was before taking a drink. ‘The gelding is fine and well, how are you treating your ninth?” Antonia laughed loudly at that comment. 'I must say, it did give me quite the shock in the morn when i awoke to such shreiks of that of my younger sisters. Infact, I was speecless for almost an hour to the latter.' she laughed courtley to herself, taking another drink before setting the glass down and leaning forward 'Thankyou Alexander.' she leaned back again 'I don't know what I have done to deserve such gifts, truly I am not worth the effort or time.' she picked up her glass and finished her drink. 'But enough about Horses. I fear you shall think me a bore, not enjoying the balls and spending all my time speaking of animals. Please, do tell me of some of your other interests... so ar what I have heard hasn't been the least bit a tribute to your personage. Then again, I wouldn't be here if I listened to all that.'

Antonia's eyes flickered toward the drink, she had never been a social drinker, although did enjoy the odd glass now and then. She could remember only few times that she drank to within her limit, being severly scolded along with her brothers who had supplied the alcohol to her. Her mother always became tipsy upon a night out, which was an embaressment. Altough, she did enjoy a hard drink. She noticed that The Earl was drinking something different from her, and she assumed something stronger. Interrupting him, she asked 'May I have some of yours...' it was evident by the look on her face that she wasn't going to take no for an answer. Having a long drink from the glass, she came back up again, she didn't even flinch at how stong it was. Sometimes it was odd how un-ladylike and bold she was. Enough to repel any young man.

Alexander Francis Granville
The Earl of Rochester

❝ quiet● intelligent ● adventurous ● passionate ● hot - tempered❞

Looking down at fortified wine, deep burgundy in colour Alexander swirled it about in the glass, listening to Antonia intently, even if he looked otherwise. Alcohol didn’t seem to affect Alexander anymore. Since he had turned it seemed he was unable to become anymore than a little tipsy. A blessing in some respects; he could no longer make a complete fool of himself if he had a few too many. Though, there had been times where Alexander had wished to drink away his pain, drown his lungs with foreign spirits, cheap wine and ale and done nothing more than make himself violently ill. again 'I don't know what I have done to deserve such gifts, truly I am not worth the effort or time.' ‘Nonsense.’ Alexander replied, let Antonia continue, he had burrowed himself deep into thought by looking down towards his wine, it had caught Antonia’s attention as she asked to try what he was drinking. He looked up towards her with a slightly perplexed expression, he had gotten used to drinking stronger wines than most, he didn’t want to get Antonia tipsy, certain that he would have to answer to his father the next morning if he sent her home in that sort of state. Regardless of what Alexander thought, he could see that Antonia was not going to take his now for an answer, he didn’t refuse when she leant in to take the glass from his hands. Alexander watched Antonia drink from his glass, half expecting her to spit out its contents; amused how she managed to keep it down.

Taking back his glass Alexander placed it beside the tall chair he was sat in on an ornate table, the top no larger than the cover of a book. Just large enough for two glasses to be rested upon. He looked to Antonia with a hint of curiosity, she had reminded Alexander of someone he had known a long time ago, when he was nothing more than a child. Standing, he tried to picture the young girl he remembered; laughing a little as to shake off the quick hit of realisation, Alexander turned behind him to a tall bookcase. ‘I wonder what you have heard about me Miss Curnrow, but if it is anything like the rumours I have heard about myself I am almost disappointed to tell you that I am not as interesting as they would make me be.’ He had heard many rumours from the maids, servants and from William scouting around, half being very true, some very untrue. But he was not going to let on what rumours fell into each category to Antonia, for now he would keep to the same routine. ‘My interests tend to fall with travel and language Miss Curnrow. Tell me, do you speak another tongue?’ He turned to face the young woman, her eyes strikingly beautiful, he had hardly taken time to notice what she was wearing, she wore a dress that only her frame could wear so well. He seldom saw women with Antonia’s figure in the countryside; it was a pleasant change. ‘Learning foreign languages has always been something I have enjoyed, even if I have never visited the country, have you ever travelled Miss Curnrow?’ Alexander nodded to her reply. “Understandably, of course. Also... no, I do hate burdening you with all these questions.” Returning to his seat Alexander nodded to Antonia’s glass “Do let me know if you would like anything else to drink, other than wine. It is a habit of mine, I am sure dinner will be with us shortly.”

LIFE IS NEVER EASY FOR THOSE WHO DREAM
there is no cure for curiosity

{{ANTONIA ANNE CURNROW}}

He looked amused that she was able to stomach such a drink as his, but to be perfectly honest, it wasn't as strong as she'd had in the past. She watched him a while as he looked to her, asif deep in thought, and not really there.‘I wonder what you have heard about me Miss Curnrow, but if it is anything like the rumours I have heard about myself I am almost disappointed to tell you that I am not as interesting as they would make me be.’ She took another drink, emptying the glass. 'Mr Granville. If I listened to or infact cared about rumours, then I wouldn't be here this evening. And perhaps even would never have met you, and that would have been a dire shame as I find you intruiging. Now. Perhaps I have been speaking for too long now.' she leaned back in the large chair, a little too large for her 'Please, tell me about yourself. Surely I am not to dine with someone who I know next to nothing about.' She rested her head lightly on her hand, the other laid in her lap.
‘My interests tend to fall with travel and language Miss Curnrow. Tell me, do you speak another tongue?’ She laughed before fluidly speaking to him in spanish 'Ah sí, soy fluido en el español...' she paused 'et j'ai aussi maîtrisé le français semblant comme la femme de mon frère plus vieil est de Lyon. Is language a new interest?' she smiled as he turned to look at her. He seemed to be studying her, with great detail. Not that it made her uncomfortable, it didn't bother her at all. ‘Learning foreign languages has always been something I have enjoyed, even if I have never visited the country, have you ever travelled Miss Curnrow?’ She looked down to her hands, her dark eyelashes shading her eyes 'No. My Mother won't permit me to, as much as my Father and I wish it.' “Understandably, of course. Also... no, I do hate burdening you with all these questions.” She sniffed 'yes ultimately, you know almost everything about my family, since you are the Earl of our county. So questions seem redundant.' She watched as he sat back down and nodded toward her empty glass. “Do let me know if you would like anything else to drink, other than wine. It is a habit of mine, I am sure dinner will be with us shortly.”

Alexander was right, dinner was with them shortly as a young woman walked knocked on the door and walked in, informing them of its arrival. She stood waiting for him to do the same. 'What shall we be eating tonight?' she asked, much hoping that it wasn't fish.

Alexander Francis Granville
The Earl of Rochester

❝ quiet● intelligent ● adventurous ● passionate ● hot - tempered❞

When dinner was finally served, Alexander led Antonia to her seat; acting very much the gentleman before taking his own. He did not know what was to eat, he rarely had to eat himself but was assured the chef in the kitchen was one of the best money could buy in this part of the country. The first course came out carried by two young women. In their hands were two bowls, fine china, inside them was what the maids called chestnut soup, just coming into season. Alexander had never ate it before but enjoyed it all the same, his taste was still intact, though he didn’t have to eat anymore, it was more of a habit. Alexander was rather quiet through dinner; he focused more on the food than his company, the occasional footsteps of servants, clinks of cutlery and muffled breaths. Main course was served. Venison with seasonal vegetables, the height of summer was coming to an end, the steep slope towards autumn was veering around the corner. As the dishes were being removed for desert, Alexander looked up towards Antonia ‘I trust the food is to your liking?’ he didn’t smile, Alexander had things on his mind, despite doing well to hide it. As desert was brought out, Alexander eyed it sceptically, it was some sort of cake made with oranges, taking one bite off of his silver fork he resided to the back that it was far too sweet for his liking. Glad to have the plate removed Alexander stood and returned to his usual demeanour, taking Antonia by the hand and leading her back in the room where they had come from. ‘I am only just aware of the time!’ He spoke, a little surprised where the time had gone. ‘Would you like me to one of my stable hands to take you in a carriage home? I would not want your parents to become worried.

LIFE IS NEVER EASY FOR THOSE WHO DREAM
there is no cure for curiosity

{{ANTONIA ANNE CURNROW}}

Antonia sat on the opposite end of the long dining table to the Earl, thinking to herself how quiet it was compared to her family at dinner. He didn't speak to her once through the soup, which she noticed, was slightly under-seasoned for her taste. He also said nothing through the main course, he seemed to be deeply in thought as a maid came out to ask how she liked her venison. Antonia looked up to the girl 'Blue to Rare.' she said quietly, thanking her upon her leaving. Truly, when the meat came, it was almost rare, blood still surrounding it. Her father always told her that it was terribly unhealthy to eat her meat raw. Her answer was always that if it was good enough for the beasts it was good enough to her. She finished the venison off quickly, savoring every taste of the meat before moving onto the vegetables. She enjoyed the red potatoes, however, vegetables were never her forte. Finally, for the pudding.

She couldn't help think that on looking at the thing that her sisters would simply squeal at just the sight of it. she smiled to herself. She didn't have a sweet tooth however, and asked quietly to a maid for a smaller slice, and some more wine.

She finished her slice, downing her wine to drown out the sickly sweet taste. ‘I trust the food is to your liking?’ His voice made her jump, not having hearing it for the duration of the meal, which, she felt was extremely bad taste. 'The soup could have done with a slight more seasoning, I do not care for desert, though i'm sure my sisters would have enjoyed it, but the main... the venison I did enjoy, your chef needs to be commended for cooking it how I best prefer it. Wonderful.' She stood herself, waiting for him to take her hand as he soon did. He led her back to the drawing room where they had been before. She turned to the rows upon rows of books he had shelved, some large and gold leaved, some small and falling apart. ‘Would you like me to one of my stable hands to take you in a carriage home? I would not want your parents to become worried.' Antonia didn't turn to her young company, ignoring his question 'Have you read the book by young Mary Shelley? I heard she wrote it on opium. Such creative things coming from that. I must say however, that the book by Byron's servant, I forget his name, was rather far-fetched and poorley written. Vampires I believe he called them. Have you the book Mr Granville?' she turned to him now, her question lingering.

Alexander Francis Granville
The Earl of Rochester

❝ quiet● intelligent ● adventurous ● passionate ● hot - tempered❞
Alexander stood a little flustered when Antonia didn’t answer his question, he ran a finger along the spines of several books, all completely free of dust, many books in his collection could be dated back centuries, one of the oldest seven hundred years from a convent in the Bordeaux. 'Have you read the book by young Mary Shelley? I heard she wrote it on opium. Such creative things coming from that. I must say however, that the book by Byron's servant, I forget his name, was rather far-fetched and poorly written. Vampires I believe he called them. Have you the book Mr Granville?' Alexander raised an eyebrow at her question. “Vampires, I had a young man from Dorchester visit me just the other week telling me of the book you speak of. Vampires, what a load of nonsense; but yes I have the book, he gave it to me as a gift.” He pointed over to a bookshelf by the large window. “I am sure I asked one of the maids to place it over in that shelf.”

After a short while of silence, Alexander turned back to face Antonia, “Miss Curnrow, pardon my curiosity, are any of your sisters due to be married? They are of age are they not?” He quickly realized what he had said to an unmarried young woman. “Oh, I am sorry if I have offended you, I sometimes do not know when to hold my tongue. A little embarrassed, Alexander turned to his nearing empty glass of wine, drinking the remainder, not caring to call a maid to refill his glass, he had had quite enough for one evening. A knock quickly came from the tall door leading out into the main foyer. Alexander walked over to see a young boy, most likely to be one of the chimney sweeps or stable boys. “M’lord, a Mr Bennet, is here to see you, he says it is urgent business.” Alexander near shrugged. “Tell him to go to my study, I will be with him in a while, fetch him a drink too, that’s a good lad.” Alexander closed the door, smug sending a young boy to William instead of sum blushing virgin maid. He would surely hear about this later on. “...Antonia...” Alexander said hesitantly, not sure if he was on such terms to address her by her first name. “I have certainly enjoyed your company this evening...”