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Fantasy Caught in the Waves (Closed)

((No worries, hope you're doing better! Haha I love how different these two couples are, Ella and Peter aren't even bothering with a proposal and Alec and Josie are super traditional about it :P))

Ella pursed her lips, thinking about it. Then she smiled. "How about Estrella?" she suggested- his nickname for her. "Or is it tacky to name a boat after myself?" She didn't think so- he hardly ever used it, but the word still meant something to them. She laughed, thinking of herself trapped in one of the situations he mentioned. "Oh, a cave. Definitely a cave," she joked.

She was happy to be setting out to sea with him, especially under better circumstances. She was excited to see what it was really like, and excited to see him in his element again. Ella was happy this was something she could share with him even if she was still terrified of swimming in the open ocean, and couldn't wait to learn more about sailing. "Okay," she agreed with a small smile. "But feel free to boss me around if you need help."

When she showed him the rings, she was a little worried about what his reaction might be. She'd been concerned about him possibly getting upset with her and hoped that he hadn't gotten rings himself, but wedding bands were usually an afterthought and couples frequently picked them out together. But he didn't seem mad at all, and Ella beamed proudly. "You really like them?" she asked, bouncing up on her toes slightly. "I was worried you wouldn't, I mean, you have to wear it forever." She hurried to put the box back in her bag where it would be safe and she wouldn't lose it. While Peter got ready to set sail, Ella sat down next to the wheel, bouncing her knee and looking back at the docks.

She kept her eyes on her little town until it disappeared beyond the horizon; only then did she begin to blink back tears. At the same time though, she felt a wave of peace wash over her as she finally glanced back up at Peter. Ella loved him so much, and she knew without a doubt that they were doing the right thing. The stars were coming out and Ella dug through the boat until she found a lantern, lighting it so they could see better. Setting it down where she'd been sitting, she wrapped her arms around one of Peter's and leaned her head on his shoulder, looking a head now instead of behind.

"Just think," she said, "husband and wife. Doesn't that sound strange?" It was strange- they seemed like such domestic titles for two people who wanted a life of adventure. Ella had a hard time imagining herself as a wife, but that was also because society had such a strict idea of what a wife should be. Ella wasn't going to be a typical wife, but she was okay with belonging to Peter. He loved her for who she was, and she could never ask for anything more. "How far is the church?"

***
​
Alec pulled a face before grinning at her, shaking his head in exasperation. "I'm a simple man," he reminded her. And truthfully, Alec didn't consider himself to be all that smart. "I would much prefer something where I at least stand a chance." Alec didn't mind losing to Josephine- mostly he liked seeing how happy she got when she won, but he'd be lying if he said it didn't make him feel a little bit inferior.

He was excited, though. Alec could usually tell when she was a little jumpy, but she wasn't giving anything away. He couldn't wait to see her face when she turned around- and of course, it was priceless.

Before he could get his words out, Josie was down on the ground saying yes and Alec didn't know what to say. His face broke out into a huge grin and he kissed her back passionately before she pulled away. "I didn't even ask yet," he chuckled. "I had a speech and everything." He'd spent all day preparing it, but maybe it didn't matter. She knew how he felt, so he opted for the abbreviated version.

"Josie," he said, grinning as he held out the ring. Alec was damn proud of that ring. "When I met you I didn't know what hit me. You've turned my world upside down, and loving you has transformed me into someone I never thought I could be. You pushed me to want to become more, so that I might deserve you." He paused. "I know I still don't, and I never will, but I can promise to spend the rest of my life trying." She'd already said yes, so he took the liberty of slipping the ring onto her finger. It fit perfectly and looked even more beautiful on her hand than he could have imagined.

"We did it," he murmured, unable to keep the smile off his face. He leaned in to kiss her again deeply before wrapping his arms around her and squeezing her tight. It was hard to believe this was happening. He'd always thought they were hopeless, doomed lovers, but now that perfect future that they'd both dreamed of was so close, he felt like he could reach out and touch it. Everything was falling into place perfectly. More than perfectly.
 
(They are so different but they're both cute haha. I'm going to ruin the cuteness soon though for drama >:) I kind of want Josie to not even have the chance to tell her father the good news before she realizes Ella is gone, just to... Idk, really milk it I guess lol)

Peter laughed. "Plenty of people have named things after themselves," he said. "I think it fits. Nobody will know how vain you are unless they know my nickname for you anyway," he added to tease her with a grin.

As the sails started to catch wind, he took a seat near the rutter so he could steer. "Something tells me it's you who will do the bossing," he said. But he motioned her over so he could show her what he was doing. Touching the large chunk of wood in front of him he said, "You steer with this, and it directs the sails into the wind. You can also manually row if needed, but it's easier to let the wind do the work. Honestly, most of sailing is really easy. It's knowing how not to get lost that's the hard part."

Peter did wish he was able to give Ella more, perhaps to even have been the one responsible for the rings, but that didn't mean that he didn't love them, or more importantly, what they represented. "Ella, it's honor to have to wear your ring. Besides, I want to. So long as you also wear yours," he gave her a kiss on the temple.

But it was strange, the two of them chasing a dream neither one really wanted or imagined until they met each other. He supposed as a woman, she must have known she would be married one day - but that wasn't the same as wanting it. And as a former pirate, it just wasn't something they did, even if they did want it (which they rarely did). It felt right, though, to do this with her. "I think it sounds perfect, actually. The church isn't too far, just a town up and over at the next port. I wanted to be sure we wouldn't be interrupted, and I've already arranged things with the priest." The holy man wasn't too thrilled with elopement, but Peter had fibbed a bit, saying she was pregnant, just to get him to agree. A sum of money hadn't hurt either. "We should be there by sunrise. I think we've had enough of a head start that we will have time." Besides, travel by sea was faster than carriage, and the tides were with them. It would take a day, two maybe, for her father to catch up.

----+

Josephine laughed, supposing she had been a little quick to answer him. However, she couldn't help it. She had been waiting for what seemed like forever. These months waiting for Alec to be ready was wonderful, but it was also torture watching everyone else around her get engaged, even Ella, while she wasn't. He would have to forgive her eagerness. "Oh, really?" She asked, raising a brow, then waved her hand for him to continue. "Well go on then, let's hear it."

Her smile was seemingly unbreakable as she listened. He was flaterring, if not too humble. "Alec, you stole away on a pirate ship for me, and endured my father trying to set me up with many men over the years... Not to mention everything you've done over the last months with your business and for Peter. I don't think there is any body more deserving of my love than you." She further reasurred him with a kiss, and let him slip the ring on her finger at last.

She stared at the beauty of it, still finding it hard to believe this was real. It was a simple ring, but it was more than she could ever hope for. Honestly, it could have been a piece of string and she would be happy knowing it was meant for her. Knowing how hard he must have worked for it was all the better. "I'm so proud of you," she answered as he pulled her close, and she shifted so that she sat comfortably at his side, leaning into his shoulder, perfectly content to just sit there with him like the old days. She'd forgotten how peaceful the stables were, and she took his hand in hers so she could admire how the ring looked that way.
 
((Haha- one ruined engagement, coming right up :P ))

Ella leaned over, watching him carefully as he began to steer. She couldn't wait until she was able to sail just as well as he did. "We won't get lost," she said confidently. "You know how to follow the stars." She leaned on his shoulder and gazed up at them. She was happy that he did genuinely liked the rings- she did hope that she got an engagement ring at some point, but it didn't have to be now. Or ever, really. Ella wasn't finicky, and the marriage contract was all she really needed.

The words husband and wife kept on playing over and over in her head. The more she thought about it, t he more she liked it. Ella wasn't having any doubts, but it was still a significant change for both of them. "Hm. It is perfect," she agreed. "I can't wait." The skies continued to darken and Ella yawned, sitting back down. She didn't want to go down to the cabin and leave Peter up here to steer and navigate all on his own, but her eyelids were growing heavy. She stayed awake for almost another hour before reaching for a blanket and falling asleep at the steering wheel, lulled to sleep by the gentle, rocking waves. As she drifted off, she couldn't help but wonder if Josephine and her father had found her letter right now, what they were thinking. It was difficult to think of how much she was going to upset them, but it was the price she had to pay for her future. Peter had left everything he knew for her, and now it was her turn- even though she hoped to return one day. Most of all, she hoped they would welcome her home when she did.

***
​
Alec was a little nervous giving his speech, and it didn't go at all as planned but he'd wanted her to hear it. She deserved it, and her reply made his smile even bigger as he slid the ring onto her finger. He loved her so much, and he couldn't wait to finally begin their life together. They hadn't overcome the last of their obstacles, but he did think they had overcome the worst. They'd proven over and over that they could face anything together, and that was exactly what they were going to do. He kissed her back and held her against him, looking around at the little loft that had used to be their hideaway. His heart felt like it was glowing, and everything seemed like it was going to be okay.

"So, I was thinking," he started, "maybe we do the ceremony here, in your mother's rose garden. I didn't save for a honeymoon but I'm sure we can figure something out." He kissed her again. "Do you like it?" he asked, watching her look at the ring. They sat there for a while, relaxing in each other's company and letting the reality set in. They were engaged- and now more than ever before, Alec wanted to shout it from the rooftops.

"How about we go share the good news?" she suggested, pulling her to her feet. "I'm sure Ella will want to claim her position as maid of honor." Ecstatic, the happy couple returned to the mansion hand in hand. The first person they ran into was Mr. Sinclair downstairs- but they didn't have time to tell him about the engagement.

"Josephine, you didn't see Ella come home did you?" he asked. "She's been gone well over an hour."

"We haven't seen her," Alec replied, frowning. "Has her carriage returned?"

"Well yes, it returned some time ago. I assumed she returned with it and went upstairs, but she didn't answer her door and I can't find her anywhere. The coachman has gone home for the evening." He looked concerned, and he had every reason to be. This was a man who had lost both of his daughters to pirates on an otherwise ordinary night- Ella not coming home on time was irresponsible at best, dangerous at worst. It wasn't good for a woman to be out so late alone. Unless...unless she wasn't alone.

Alec felt a sinking feeling in his stomach, and he hoped desperately that he was wrong. "She could still be in her room?" Alec summarized. "There's a chance?" Without wasting a second and still gripping Josephine's hand, he ran upstairs to Ella's room and pushed open the door without knocking.

"Ella?" he called, looking around. He dropped Josephine's hand only to check the bathroom before returning to the bedroom, where he noticed a pair of letters resting on Ella's bed. "Josie," he said seriously, turning her attention to them if she hadn't already noticed.
 
(I live for the drama. Also I'm sort of going to fast forward Peter and Ella a bit, even though I know the others are going to be behind time wise haha)

Peter smiled sentimentally, thinking that now they were not only following the stars, but their hearts. It was probably the biggest gamble he'd ever taken in his life, but it would be worth it. He hoped. He knew. He didn't say much else for the rest of the night, just listened to the waves and paid mind to which way they were headed. He didn't stop even when Ella went to lay down and rest her head. He'd be a tired man in the morning, but a happy one.

Just as he predicted, as the sun started to peek over the horizon, they reached the docks at the edge of the next town. It was already busy and bustling with workers getting ready to start their day - mostly fisherman and merchants like he hoped to be soon. He anchored the boat and then and gently shook Ella away.

"Ella," he said in her ear, hand pressed gently to her shoulder. "Ella, we're here." He could already see the church, it's tower standing out above all the buildings where it stood on a hill just a small walk from the docks. In just a few minutes they'd be saying their vows. His stomach twisted with the nerves of it.

------

Josephine just couldn't believe it was all finally coming to fruition. She had shared her heart with Alec, her soul, and now she would get the chance to share her life, her family, his home, his bed soon. Someday they'd even have those children they talked about. Life had thrown them some curves, but she thought they had managed pretty well for a couple of star-crossed lovers.

She smiled as he explained his idea. She was already fantasizing about the actual marriage, she'd forgotten to think about the ceremony part of it. Her mother's rose garden was a wonderful idea, and one that she knew her father would love. Her mother too, if she were around to see it. "That's perfect," she said, giving him a peck on the cheek. As far as honeymoons were concerned, she didn't much care where they went. She'd never been much of a traveler, unlike her sister. "We don't have to go anywhere. I know things will be different, that you'll need to save money."

It would be a big change, and it was a topic his next question related perfectly to. She adored the ring despite it's simplicity just because she knew how much he must have worked for it. Besides, it was a symbol of everything they'd been through - the ultimate sign for others to see that she already belonged to somebody and no longer had to stay silent about it. "Even more than like. I love it!," she exclaimed, before her eyebrows drew together briefly. I don't even think I want to know how long you must have been saving for it. We'll have to find you one to match before anybody gets any ideas of taking you away from me."

She couldn't wait to share the big news with Ella, though, so she was more than happy to interrupt the cuddling in exchange for a brief adventure back to the house. Rory had made some chocolate cake earlier in the day, so maybe they could crack open some champagne and all enjoy a slice together, the two of them, her father, her sister. Even Logan could join, if he wanted.

Unfortunately, the good news was overshadowed by a more immediately concerning one. "No," she answered her father at the same time as Alec, although before the others had got it put together she was already beginning to suspect what may have happened. Josie had been in that position before herself, but she'd had Alec's level headed thinking to keep her anchored. Ella was much more strong headed than her though, and Peter?

She'd already spotted the letters before Alec said something, but she'd remained glued to her spot by the door staring at them. She already knew what they would say, and she felt... there were no words to explain how she felt except that to actually read the letter right now was more than she was capable of handling with grace. She simply shook her head in exasperation and crossed her arms. "Unbelievable..." she muttered, too numb with shock to warrant much more reaction than that for now, but also somehow still unsurprised.

"Have you found her?" Mr. Sinclair asked, coming into the room at last. He noticed the letters and went straight for one, followed closely behind by a confused Logan who took up the other one that Josie imagined was meant for her.
 
((Haha that's okay, I wasn't sure if you wanted to do that or not so I didn't, but it's all good :P ))

Ella was rocked to sleep by the waves, expecting that Peter would come and wake her up at some point, but he didn't and she slept until they arrived. When she awoke, it was to the sound of Peter's voice. "Mmm. Morning," she murmured, rolling over and looking up at him. With the door to the cabin open, she could see out at the harbor and the church steeple in the distance. It brought a smile to her face, and she was quick to pull Peter down for a kiss. "Happy wedding day."

She pushed herself up to a sitting position, pushing back her hair and glancing at the small mirror that hung beside the bed. "God, I look horrible," she lamented, combing her fingers through her hair. She didn't have many nice clothes with her and it didn't matter much, but she didn't want to look like a disaster on her wedding day. "Give me a few minutes and we'll go." From her bag, she dug out a simple white dress that she'd worn to a few garden parties in the past- it wasn't anything fancy, but it was good enough and it got the idea across. She pulled the white dress over her head and combed out her hair, tying it back with a simple white ribbon. For good measure, she fastened on her mother's pearl earrings. She didn't have a veil, but it was okay. It was far from the wedding dress that Ella had always imagined she'd have, but she didn't put nearly as much importance on it as Josephine did. The important part was saying their vows in front of the priest, and wearing those rings.

It was hard not to think of what her wedding day could have been like, if it had all gone as planned and she'd been able to marry Peter with her father's approval. Josephine would be the one buttoning up her dress, styling her hair and helping her do her makeup. She'd be so excited, even if it was Peter, and Ella was sad that she no longer had the option to share this moment with her sister, her best friend. By now, they would have discovered her letters. By now they would be out looking for her. But there was no turning back, and Ella wasn't even close to changing her mind. She wanted to enjoy this day, and she knew that it would be perfect.

Once she was dressed, she held onto Peter's arm to help her climb out of the boat without falling into the water and beamed happily when they made it onto the docks. Taking the ring box and tucking it into one of his pockets, she reached down for his hand. It was still early in the morning; the docks were quiet and the rising sun made the water sparkle. It was a gorgeous day, perfect for a wedding. "Shall we?" she asked, looking up at him with a smile. She looked towards the church, only a short walk away. Her stomach began to flutter with nervous excitement as it all started to become more and more real. This was happening, they were getting married today.

***
​
Alec pulled a face when Josephine said they didn't need to go on a honeymoon. "Oh, come on," he chided, nudging her playfully. "I've managed this far, I'm sure I could come up with something." Even if it was just a nice weekend away, in an inn a couple towns over. "We'll want some space from Peter, anyways. And Ella." Alec wasn't sure how long Peter would be staying with him and knew that the man would be quick to move out once they got married, but he might need a little bit of time and neither Josie nor Alec were in any position to kick him out, considering the trouble their big mouths had gotten him into. As for Ella, it was likely she'd be married already by the time Alec and Josie's wedding came into fruition, but if Logan decided to stay nearby and make a bid for the Sinclair estate, he imagined Ella would be hanging around them quite a bit rather than spend time with her husband.

Little did he know just how wrong he was about all of that.

He smiled, happy to know that she liked the ring. It hadn't been cheap, but it hadn't broken the bank either. "Don't worry, I didn't sacrifice an arm for it," he joked, pressing a kiss to her cheek. "Saved for everything at about the same time. And I've had it for a week," he added with a grin. "Figured now was as good a time as any." They'd have plenty of time to pick out matching wedding bands, but for now he was happy with the engagement ring. He didn't have anyone else exactly vying for his hand in marriage, but Josephine might. Now, she was officially his and he couldn't wait to share the news.

But unfortunately, the evening did not end in celebration as Alec had hoped and expected. No one could have predicted what they were walking into until they were there, up in Ella's room, with everyone slowly realizing what had happened. The realization came to Alec slowly as he looked at the letters, one addressed to Mr. Sinclair and Josie with the other addressed to Logan. He remained silent as Mr. Sinclair entered with Logan and they both took up the letters. While Josephine could only look on, her father tore the letter open, his eyes flying across Ella's words. Logan's reaction came first as his engagement ring dropped out onto his palm and he read the few sentences Ella had left him.

"Shit," he said, unable to believe what he was reading. He looked up at everyone in the room. "She's gone. To marry that pirate." Mr. Sinclair clutched the letter in his hand in anger, nearly tearing it in his sudden grief and rage. Ella was gone, again. With Peter. Her letter was loving and kind, but it did nothing to ease the pain of her disappearance.

"That stupid, reckless girl!" he exclaimed, not knowing how to process his emotions. He looked to his oldest daughter. "Did you know about this?" he asked her sharply. "Did she tell you?" Judging by her reaction Ella hadn't even told her sister. He looked to Alec next. "And Peter. Did he tell you?"

"No sir, he didn't," Alec said, shaking his head. "He's been working harder this week, been out more, but I thought it was his way of coping with-"

"Well apparently not," he said sharply. Ella's letter fell to the floor. "Where could they have gone? The next town?"

"I'll go look for her," Alec was quick to offer, glancing at Josie. "She can't have gotten far." But if Alec knew anything about Peter, they weren't traveling by land.
 
Peter chuckled softly at Ella's tired voice, but he happily kissed her back. Having had no sleep, he was quite exhausted himself, but nerves and excitement about what awaited them shortly kept him alert. "Wow. I never thought I'd hear anybody say that," he admitted when they pulled away, tucking a strand of stray hair behind her ear for her.

He had no idea how Ella could ever look "horrible", and he gave her a look that said as much. "Horribly beautiful," he corrected her, but gave her the time she needed to fix herself to her standards. He took the time as well to do the same - he had always been a simple man. He was used to months of dirt and grime on his skin. But he would be damned if he let Ella get married to him while he looked like a living corpse. So he stripped his shirt and pants to change into clean ones. His clothes were no tailored suit - just a cleaned up version of his standard white shirt and dark trousers - but they were the nicest clothes he owned at the moment so they would have to do.

When they were done, he took a second just to drink her in. She wasn't in your typical wedding dress - she didn't look like your average bride. But he still forgot to breath a little bit when he saw her, much like he imagined any man would on his wedding day when they were struck with the reality that the beautiful woman before them was going to be their wife.

He smiled slow and offered his arm to help her up out of the boat. "We shall," he said, and then exchanged her arm for her hand as they wandered up the slow and steady hill towards the chapel. What few people were out paid them little mind. They looked like an ordinary couple out for a morning stroll.

"You know, you still have time to change your mind," he said as they approached the entry. He was only half joking - logically he knew what her answer would be but he also still didn't believe he was really worthy of her. He wouldn't be himself if he didn't offer her at least one more out.

----

Josie grinned, nudging him back, though she did also look at him in horror at the thought of spending their honeymoon anywhere near Peter. Ella, she wouldn't mind as much, but even still their first few days as a married couple should be spent alone, privately. She didn't want to have to worry about unwelcome intrusions. "Well, now that you put it that way, I might demand one."

For all they knew though, in a few days time Peter might be long gone. Who knew how this whole mess with Logan would play out. It was hard to picture Ella with anybody other than Peter at this point, but it was starting to seem like there wouldn't be an alternative. Josephine had the thought that she hoped Ella could be happy for her in her engagement despite her own tragic predicament. But not wanting any sympathy she had for Ella to ruin her moment with Alec, she took his face in her hands again and gave him one last long kiss before they shared the news. "I love you, you know," she said.

It would have been nice to share how happy she felt in that moment with the rest of her family. Instead, she was now staring at a room full of angry and bewildered men.

She was a little angry herself, she had to admit, though she was trying really hard not to show it.

"Do you really think I'd be here if I did?" she asked her father in disbelief after he asked her if she'd known about this. She tried not to take his question personally, but she couldn't help but feel like there was a tone of accusation in his words. Ella hadn't said a word to her, but she wished she had. To receive no explanation but a letter felt like a slap to the face. On her engagement night, no less... there were a lot of emotions Josephine was going to have to process tonight.

She looked to Alec, the confusion and hurt and worry plain as day on her face despite her efforts to conceal it. "I'll come with you," she said.

"No," Mr. Sinclair said. "I need you to stay here in case she comes back. Alec," he motioned to his eldest's new fiance. "I'd appreciate the help. Logan, I understand if you choose not to come along."
 
Ella rolled her eyes at him playfully. She looked far from beautiful at the moment, but she'd fix that right up and then they'd be on their way. There was a moment that she was stunned into silence when she came out, same as him. Neither of them looked extraordinary, but the sun was still low in the sky sparkling on the waves, there was a slight breeze ruffling through their hair and their clothes and everything felt...perfect. Ella couldn't believe that this was real.

She held his hand tightly as they made their way through the town, admiring the new scenery. It wasn't very dissimilar from her own hometown, but it was a little different and she recognized none of the people. Meaning, of course, that none of the people recognized them. No one was going to bother them, no one was going to stop them. They were completely free.

Ella's heart began to race when they approached the church, but she didn't hesitate for a second. She wasn't sure if Peter's offer was joking or not, but she slapped him on the arm, shaking her head. "No," she insisted with a grin. "You're stuck with me." They walked inside to see a priest, attending to something up near the altar. He didn't seem to notice them coming in, but he lifted his gaze as they drew nearer and took note of Ella's white dress. He looked to the man standing beside the young woman.

"Ah, Peter. Good to see you again. This must be...Ella, was it?"

"Yes, sir," Ella nodded. "Thank for your helping us."

"Yes, well...I don't believe the Lord forbids it and your fiance was very persuasive." He smiled kindly at Peter and Ella beamed. "Do you have rings?"

"Yes." Ella reached into Peter's pocket and pulled out the small ring box, containing both wedding bands. Satisfied, the priest nodded and stepped behind the altar.

"Very well. Would you join hands, please?" The couple did so and the priest opened a small book containing the wedding vows. "Peter. Do you take Ella as your lawfully wedded wife, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer or for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and cherish until death do you part?" Ella couldn't keep the smile off her face as she looked up, gazing into his eyes.

***
​
Alec chuckled and nodded; it didn't take much convincing. "Honeymoon it is," he decided. "A small one." He didn't intend on breaking the bank over it, and when you didn't have a lot of money you usually didn't get a ton of vacation days. But for their wedding, he would make it work. He leaned in and kissed her back, unable to keep the smile off of his face. It was so exciting, to think that this was finally happening. "I love you," he repeated.

But the moment was soon ruined.

Alec could hardly comprehend what was happening, and he couldn't imagine how Josephine and Mr. Sinclair felt. Ella was gone, and this time...

"Will all due respect, sir, she's not coming back," Alec said to Mr. Sinclair, glancing at Josephine. They all knew it was true. If Ella had escaped with Peter, which according to the letter she had, she wasn't coming back. She wasn't going to change her mind, and even if she did, she'd be stupid to come back now. No, Ella was gone for good unless someone dragged her back kicking and screaming.

In any other situation, he would have just let Ella go. The problem was that she wasn't safe, couldn't possibly be safe. She might not have any money, and they had nowhere to go. They got married, then what? They'd starve. Logan looked conflicted as well, whether to stay or go.

"I don't...I don't know," he said hesitantly.

"Stay," Alec advised. He looked to Mr. Sinclair. "Maybe Logan can stay and Josephine can come with us." Josephine knew Ella better than any of them, and would have a better idea of where they might have gone. Hypothetically. Mr. Sinclair looked skeptical, but eventually nodded.

"Alright. Logan, will you stay until tomorrow, at least?"

"Yes, of course," he replied. Logan was more than a little angry, but he was still trying to process it all. Alec nodded, already ready to go.

"I think they'll have gone by sea, sir," he offered. "Peter's a sailor, not a rider."

"Well then they could be anywhere!" Mr. Sinclair exclaimed.

"No, not necessarily," Alec disagreed. "Where are the nearest major port cities?"
 
Peter nodded a shy greeting to the pastor. They had met before, obviously, and he'd had a long talk with him about his plans. Oddly the priest was the only one who didn't seem to want to condemn his and Ella's relationship. Peter wasn't a religious man by any stretch, but it did seem ironic, and he thought today might be the closest he would ever feel to God. He couldn't pretend to say what happened after death, but there was some comfort in hoping that it was true - that marriage in a church meant you were bound to your spouse even after life. That he would get to have not just the remainder of his century on earth with her, but a forever afterward.

As they took their place at the front of the church, the priest holding out the bible and reading out to them the vows that they had to take, Peter took Ella's hands in his. He was shaking, nervous, even though he knew that this was what he wanted. He was afraid that they'd be caught, that her father would race through the doors and stop this. But he was excited too that they might really do this. He ran his thumb over her fingers to draw comfort and to appreciate that this was real.

He smiled at her as the pastor read on, barely comprehending over the loud thudding of his heart in his ears, but he nodded his yes at the question. "I do," he said, shifting so that now his fingers laced with hers. It was her turn now, and he was almost more eager to hear those two little words than he was to hear the big three for the first time.

The priest offered his own patient and happy grin before turning to Ella to repeat the vows she was to take to him. "Until death do you part?" he concluded, looking between the two expectedly.

-----


Josephine was torn with feelings of both worry and anger. She could never stop loving her sister, so naturally she felt a sense of protectiveness over Ella. But she also felt betrayed in that moment, so she couldn't quite convince herself which she would rather do - go and chase after her sister or stay here and sulk until Ella returned, if she returned. Thankfully that decision was being made for her, and though she had no idea if Alec knew what was racing through her head at that moment, or whether his intentions were to do what he thought was best of Ella or to support Josie, she was glad for him stepping up anyway.

Pulling her sleeve down over her hand to hide the ring, she then took hold of Alec's hand as way to keep her grounded. "Fine," she agreed, voice catching in her throat. She didn't have any time to process this, but she knew she'd regret it later if she didn't go. She doubted they would find Ella in time, if at all, but looking at her father she realized that even though he had no difficulty expressing his anger at his youngest daughter, he was probably feeling just like Josephine was. Hurt. Worried. Anger was sometimes just the easier emotion to filter it through.

She watched as her father thought and processed his knowledge about the local geography from his business travels. "North," he settled on. "We'll go north first. If we have to double back and try for south, we will." He looked determined, then nodded his head as he made his final decision. He was headed out of the room before anyone could respond.

Josie looked at Alec before following him, but then stopped in the doorway of the room with a hesitation. She let go of Alec to stand in front of Logan for a moment. She didn't like him, and she knew Ella didn't love him, but he didn't really deserve this. And to come as far as engagement? Marriage to him wasn't fair to Ella, but Logan really was innocent in all of this, just as John was when she was in a similar position as Ella not so long ago. "I'm sorry," she said, and gave his arm a sympathetic squeeze before rejoining the others to go look for her sister. She didn't understand why love had to hurt so many people.
 
Ella was positively giddy. She couldn't believe they were really doing this. It was far from the grand wedding she'd always thought she'd have, but it was so, so much better. She loved Peter so much, and even though it hurt to be away from her family she knew this was the right choice. In a matter of moments, Peter would be her family. Her husband, to spend the rest of her life with. He said, "I do," and if it was even possible, Ella's smile grew even wider. She held his hands tightly, trying to listen as the priest repeated the vows for her but too captivated by Peter to pay him much mind. Finally, she registered that he seemed to have stopped speaking.

"I do," she said confidently. She wanted all of it- the good and bad, rich and poor, as long as Peter came with it. The priest smiled and nodded.

"Very well. The rings..." The couple exchanged rings slowly, Ella's hand shaking because she was so excited. Peter's fit his finger perfectly and Ella thought it was perhaps the most beautiful thing she'd ever seen. "I now pronounce you man and wife," the priest concluded, closing his book. He looked to Peter. "You may kiss the bride."

Ella didn't give Peter a chance- no sooner had the words fallen from the priests lips than Ella leaped into Peter's arms, wrapping her arms around his neck and crushing her lips against his. They'd done it, they'd really done it. They were husband and wife. She could have kissed him for an eternity, but when it became awkward the priest cleared his throat and Ella pulled away just enough to look over at him, her face glowing. The old man smiled kindly.

"Congratulations," he offered. "If you have a moment, would you like to sign the marriage license?" Normally it wasn't an urgent matter, but as this was an elopement and the couple surely knew their marriage might be challenged by other loved ones in their lives, it was wise to get it in writing as soon as possible. Ella glanced at Peter, still beaming, and nodded.

"Yes, of course." The priest led them into his office where he presented a two copies of a marriage license. Both Ella and Peter signed both and the priest signed both pieces of paper as well, as the ordained minister who wed them and as the witness. One he kept on file in the church, and one he presented to the newlyweds.

"Congratulations again, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas," he said. "I pray the Lord will bless your marriage for years to come."

"And may he bless you for...helping us," Ella replied awkwardly. Despite being raised going to church, she'd never really known the correct way of saying things. Josie was much better at it, but either way, she was pleased to have gotten married in a church for the same reasons as Peter. If it mattered, they'd done it right, and if it didn't...well, they certainly hadn't done it wrong.

After bidding farewell to the priest, the young couple exited the church hand in hand, finally husband and wife. Before they took another step, Ella pulled Peter in for a kiss. "Mrs. Thomas," she repeated the priest's words. It almost didn't feel real. "I love that. I love you," she murmured, unable to keep the silly smile off her face as she kissed him again. "What do you say we find some cheap wine and celebrate? Then the rest of the world tomorrow." Ella was already drunk with happiness, but they deserved to celebrate.

***
​
Alec knew that he should give Josephine her own say, but he could tell that she was in shock. She didn't have to come, but he meant what he said- Josephine was probably the best chance of finding Ella. And if they did find her, only Josie would be able to reason with the younger girl, convince her to come home...if that was even possible. Alec wasn't convinced that it was, and if Ella wasn't the little sister and best friend of the woman he loved he might not have cared. But he knew that Ella was important to Josephine, and that meant that she was important to him.

He felt Josie take his hand and he squeezed it tightly, trying to be comforting, although he didn't know how comforting he could possibly be in a time like this.

Together, he and Mr. Sinclair developed a rudimentary plan- they'd head north, to the nearest port cities. He was about to recommend splitting up, but in the middle of the summer he couldn't see them heading south to begin with. Mr. Sinclair went downstairs to get ready and Alec began to lead Josephine from the room when she stopped to speak to Logan.

The other man nodded, his heart warmed slightly by her condolences. "Thank you," he said kindly. "I hope you find her and she's safe. I'll remain through the end of the week before heading home." If Ella hadn't returned by then, Logan didn't think she would.

"Thank you, Logan," Alec added from the doorway. "We both wish you the best."

"And I to you," Logan replied. He gestured towards Josephine's hand, where despite her efforts to conceal it he had still seen the glittering of a diamond. "Congratulations." Alec merely nodded before taking Josephine's hand once again and leading her from Ella's room. Before they went anywhere else, Alec took a moment to pull Josephine into his arms. He had no way of knowing all the thoughts going through his fiance's mind, but he knew that she had to be heartbroken for more reasons than one. Her sister was gone, to be married to a man Josephine still didn't trust without the approval of her father, and she wasn't there to celebrate Josie and Alec's own engagement.

"We'll find her," he promised. "Peter will keep her safe, I know he will. I'm so sorry this happened, on tonight of all nights." He pressed a kiss to the top of her head. "Hurry and pack a few changes of clothes. I'm going to run back to the house and pack a bag, I'll be back in twenty minutes. Okay? I love you." He kissed her briefly before dashing out of the house, returning to Nielsen and riding back to his home as quickly as he could.

He returned almost exactly twenty minutes later with two saddlebags, one containing his own clothes and money and the other left empty so that Josie wouldn't have to carry anything. Although Peter had likely sailed to the next town over, neither he nor Mr. Sinclair were sailors and they would have to wait until morning to take a ship. So, horseback it was. After tying Nielsen to one of the columns outside the mansion, Alec returned inside to Josephine and Mr. Sinclair.

"Peter's room is completely cleared out," he reported, as if Ella's letters weren't enough confirmation of what had happened. "Everything he owned is gone."
 
Peter felt like his whole body was going numb. He had faced a hell of a lot in his life, but somehow getting married tied for the most terrifying and exhilarating thing he had ever done. This was the right thing. He felt that in his bones. But the thing about marrying somebody that he had never considered before was how scary it was to trust somebody so much that you just sort of had to dive in. He knew he could count on Ella to catch him, he just hoped he wouldn't drop her on accident along the way.

The ceremony was hardly luxurious, but it felt good and real and sacred, and once those words were spoken that officially bound them together as man and wife, he could hardly keep the smile off of his face. He chuckled as she kissed him, both from amusement and happiness, and held her close until the priest reminded them they still had the paperwork to sign.

He glanced towards Ella when the certificate was place in front of them. "You're sure you don't want to back out?" he teased. "You've been Ella Sinclair your whole life. Ella Thomas doesn't quite have the same ring to it." It was a joke of course, because obviously he loved that she was now officially taking his name. He signed his own signature with extra care, making sure that there was no way anybody could look at it and mistake the legitimacy of their marriage.

It almost didn't feel real when they exited the church doors a few minutes later, but the ring on his finger was solid proof that it was. He laughed, looked to her and wasn't surprised at all that she was already discussing wine. It was still morning, and it was just like his girl. He pulled her to him and gave her a kiss - their second as husband and wife. "I'm always up for wine," he said. "And then we'll go anywhere you want me to take you."

-------

If Ella not being here on what was perhaps the most important day for Josie in her life thus far wasn't enough already to upset her, Logan noticing the ring on her finger before anyone else was enough to push her over the edge. This wasn't how it was supposed to be. This isn't how it was supposed to go. She brushed away a silent tear, unable to keep her emotions under control as well as she had been a moment before. She could only nod at Logan, for this wasn't his fault. He was a victim in all of this, too.

Outside in the hallway, she let Alec be the anchor she needed. She didn't understand how he could always be so good at that. Whatever Alec thought or felt about Ella and Peter, she knew he didn't place the same amount of importance on it as she did. Yet, here he was, offering to go out and look for them because he knew it meant something to Josie. It was just what she needed to stop her from having a complete meltdown at the worst possible time, so she clung to him for a second, drawing from his strength. If anything, his actions were only showing her that she had definitely made the right choice for herself.

"I just..." she started to say, but then stopped, just nodded. He'd already said it. He knew what she was thinking. On top of all her worry was the betrayal she felt. She didn't know how she was going to react if they found Ella tonight yet, but until then she just had to be strong. "Okay," she echoed. "I love you, too." Then Alec was gone, and she had to be strong all by herself. She took a deep breath and focused, doing as he had asked her, trying not to think about her engagement or what they would find, but only on what she had to get done. Little tasks.

After packing her clothes and spending a few minutes neurotically straightening up messes around the house to keep her mind busy, she met her father and Alec once more downstairs.

At hearing Alec's report, Mr. Sinclair shook his head, sighed. "We better get going then. We can't waste anymore time." He was worried it was already too late, and if so, there was nothing left to be done. He had an equally difficult decision to make. He loved his daughter, only wanted what was best for her, but this... he took off towards the stables and unhitched his own horse.

"Josie, why don't you ride with Alec. We'll start heading north, only stopping if we need to or when we hit the next town," he said.

Josephine tucked her things away in the spare saddlebag. Only now did she consider one thing, and when she did, she looked to her father with some concern. "What happens if we find them? What will you do?" She understood his anger, but she did worry about her sister, which meant that she had to consider what would happen to Peter.
 
Ella rolled her eyes and elbowed Peter. "It's a little late for that. You're stuck with a crazy wife forever." Once they made it outside, Ella kissed him back lovingly and smiled when he agreed. They were going to have so many adventures together, and this was just the beginning. They wandered through town hand in hand, both of them glowing with happiness. Eventually they found a shop where they bought a bottle of wine and went to a cheap in. Not having any glasses and not wanting to waste their money on anything like that, they took turns drinking from the bottle and eventually ended up in bed. Ella was a little tipsy, but not so much that she didn't know what was happening. She'd been intimate with Peter before, but as husband and wife it meant something different, something more. They were no longer breaking the laws of tradition. He was hers forever, and she was his.

In the morning, they returned to the harbor and set sail once again.

For the next several months, they traveled the world together. It wasn't always easy- far from it. It had taken a while to figure out what Ella could do and finally she'd started working in kitchens wherever they went, cooking or washing dishes. Peter usually found work at the docks fishing or loading up ships, and they spent nights in the cheapest inns they could find. Sometimes Ella was able to find temporary work at the bars inside the inns and pay for their stay that way. It was a lot of hard work, and it wasn't long before Ella was nearly unrecognizable as a high class woman. Her hands were dry from constantly soaking in hot water and she'd given up on trying to style her hair; her wavy locks were usually fairly unkempt and tied back with a ribbon. The few dresses she'd brought wore through quickly, although she was proud that she'd managed to save up enough money to buy a new one on her own. They weren't living luxuriously, but every town they stopped in held a new adventure and Ella never grew tired of being on the open seas. She'd learned how to sail, not as expertly as Peter but she could hold her own when he needed to catch a few hours of sleep. Ella was addicted to traveling and seeing the world, and she didn't know when she'd ever want to stop. And amidst all of their little adventures, they had a sort of routine going. They traveled, they worked during the day, made love and drank wine in the evening, took a few days off here and there to explore, and budgeted for wherever they wanted to go next. If money was especially tight they worked smarter and slept on the boat, but every now and then Ella enjoyed sleeping without the rocking waves underneath her. Peter was still working on absolving Ella's fear of swimming in the ocean, but she was fine on the boat and she loved every second of it.

It was a few months after their wedding when Ella wrote her first letter to Josephine. She knew that her sister was likely still angry with her, but she wanted her family to know that she was safe and that she was happy with the decision she chose. She'd wanted to write immediately, but thought it might be wiser to give her sister and father some time to soften their hearts. It was difficult because Ella knew that she could never hope for a response; even if she gave them the address of the inn they were currently staying at they'd be gone before a letter had time to reach her. She missed her sister; Josephine was her best friend, and that was never going to change in Ella's mind. She knew that Alec had likely proposed by now and the wedding was probably coming up. Ella had thought about telling Peter she wanted to be there for Josephine's wedding and they should try and find out when it was, but it was too soon to go back home. So she settled for the letter.

Ella had gotten off work early and went back to the room they were currently staying in, where she was able to find a pen and a slip of paper on which to compose her letter. After spending several minutes in quiet contemplation of what she wanted to say, Ella began to write.

Dear Josie,

I hope you and Father are doing well. I'm writing to let you know that I'm safe and that Peter and I were married a few months ago. I'm sorry for not writing sooner. Things have been a little crazy and we've been spending a lot of time traveling- Peter saved up to buy a boat, and we've been moving somewhere new every couple of weeks. Isn't that romantic? There are so many interesting places and people in the world and every day I'm more certain that this was the right choice for me. There are so many different languages, too. That's been one of the hardest things about traveling, but I've learned that kindness is a universal language even when I don't have any idea what anyone is saying. We're in Spain now, and in the next few months we'll get to Portugal, Italy and maybe even Greece. Not having much money or nice things has been an adjustment, but I'm grateful that we have everything we need. I've started finding work everywhere we go and Peter usually works at the docks, and we see each other in the evening and make sure to have the same days off. It's a little bit different than I imagined in my head, but even though we don't spend all of our time together I love knowing that we'll be coming back to the same place in the evening. I know it'll be the same for you when you marry Alec and share a home with him.

But being husband and wife isn't any different, really. It hasn't changed our relationship, at least not in the way I expected. I don't feel like a "wife" in the traditional sense of the word, but that's probably not surprising to you. The biggest difference is that we're free to be who we want to be together and make our own decisions. I'm so lucky to have a husband that values my opinion and views marriage as a team effort rather than one controlling the other, as I know Alec will be to you too. We are so, so lucky, Josie. I've seen so many women from other countries that don't have the freedoms we do and don't have the chance to marry for love. I hope you aren't still upset with me for choosing this, because I would do it all over again if i had the chance.

I'm sure he's proposed to you by now, maybe you're already married too and I want to say congratulations. I wish I knew when your wedding was so that we could make plans to be there or at least send you something- I saw a beautiful set of China in Spain that made me think of you. I'm so sorry that I won't be at your wedding, I think about it every day and I miss you more than words can describe, but I'm so happy you have Alec. You'll be such a beautiful bride. Please tell Father I love and miss him, and I hope we'll see each other again soon. Please don't worry about me! We're perfectly safe, and I have everything I need. I hope the same is true for you.

All my love,
Ella

Just as Ella finished signing off her letter, which was a rambling mess at best, Peter returned to the room and Ella looked up with a smile. "How was work?" she asked, standing up and crossing over to give him a hug and kiss hello. She glanced towards the desk. "I wrote a letter for Josephine. I figured it's about time I send something, don't you? I've been kind of procrastinating, I mean, you know how Josie holds grudges and I wouldn't want to upset her. The letter sucks, but I just don't know how to...put anything into words. You know? I just wrote whatever came to mind, I guess." She hugged Peter again, having hardly given him a moment to say a word since he walked in. "I'm hungry. Anything in mind for dinner?"

***
​
As the small group got ready to leave, Mr. Sinclair gave some thought to the question Josephine asked him- what to do when, and if, they found his youngest daughter. He looked to Josephine sadly. "If they've married, there's nothing I can do," he informed her. "You know how it works. When a woman marries, she is under the authority of her husband instead of her father. That's why I've always tried to ensure you both marry honorable men," he explained. "If they haven't...I don't know," he admitted. "But that pirate will not inherit the Sinclair estate." That was all he knew for sure.

They rode north, and spent several days searching for Ella and Peter with no success. They spoke with the priest in every town until finally, they stumbled upon the right church. When Mr. Sinclair inquired whether or not the priest had married a couple by the name of Ella and Peter, he was presented with a certificate of marriage signed by Peter and Ella Thomas, dated the day after they'd escaped. So there was never any chance. The priest had no idea what direction they'd taken off in and finally, the three of them returned to the estate empty handed. Logan packed up and left, and as the weeks faded into months they were all forced to accept that Ella had no plans of returning anytime soon.

With that in mind, it was a little more difficult for everyone to find joy in planning Alec and Josephine's wedding, but Alec dedicated as much time to Josephine as he could and strived to make sure that everything was perfect. They were keeping it small, having it in her mother's rose garden during peak bloom. Alec had invited a few of his friends, but given that he didn't have many and all he really had to do was show up in a suit he left most of the planning to Josephine. She was better at it, and he would have been content to get married in a church, but he knew that Josephine wanted the ceremony. And he knew that she was secretly hoping that Ella would make an appearance last minute for it. Alec hoped so too, but as the wedding drew nearer and nearer, he started to become certain that Ella was gone for good.

Finally, the wedding day arrived. Despite his insecurities, Alec couldn't be more excited to finally marry the woman he loved. They'd come so far, and after all that they'd been through he was thrilled to finally take her as his wife. In between his work, finalizing wedding plans and spending time with Josephine he'd dedicated himself to cleaning the house, pitifully attempting to decorate the place in a way that he thought she'd like. Of course Josephine would be in charge of the decor, but he wanted her to feel like she was coming home tonight. He'd gathered wildflowers and put a fresh vase of them in every room of the house, washed all the sheets and scrubbed all the floors.

He'd also tried to bake a cake; he'd never done it before but it seemed to come out okay. Of course they had ordered one from a professional baker in town, but he thought that Josephine would find it endearing if he tried to make a second one just for the two of them. He'd groomed Nielsen and had considered styling the horse's mane, but he didn't know how to do that and didn't want to put the poor horse through the torture. Around noon, he neatly folded the tux he'd rented and rode over to the estate, where he was quick to put Nielsen in the stables and head inside to one of the guest bedrooms to get ready. He would have stayed in the stables, but for once he didn't want to smell like horses. If the smell would ever leave him.

As Alec was getting ready in the other room, the servants were setting up the wedding arch and seats outside. It was covered in beautiful roses and the weather couldn't be more perfect. The entire house was spotless, there was a huge cake in the other room and Rory had been up since five in the morning preparing the food. It was going to be a perfect wedding. An hour before the ceremony was scheduled to begin, one of the servants knocked on Josephine's door and cracked it open.

"Miss Josephine? A letter has just arrived for you." The young maid held her hand out with the letter, hesitating before she spoke added, "It's from an...Ella Thomas."
 
If somebody had asked Peter five years ago what married life looked like, he wouldn't have pictured anything like what it actually was with Ella. He had been a pirate - so marriage before had always seemed like something that bogged men down, tied them to the land, or in the case of the few actual married pirates he had known, pointless, as they usually slept around regardless of the vows they'd taken at home. Instead, what married life with Ella actually was, was work. But it was the kind of work that worth something and made him feel important. He was working to provide for her so he could come home to her, feed her, be with her, and be happy in the moments they did get to spend together.

Of course, Ella worked hard, too. He had always known she was a hard worker, but now that she no longer lived with her father, she worked in different ways. She still used her brain, but now she used her hands too. And honestly? He kind of liked how callused her hands had gotten and how disheveled her hair looked when she let it down. It was kind of sexy, actually, and he loved that she had chosen this despite how much easier life may have been if she had chosen to keep living a privileged life.

They did have fun, though. When they weren't working they were usually drinking, or sleeping together, or making friends with the locals at whatever new town they decided to visit. They spent a lot of time on the boat, but they did visit land every so often too. They were alive and they were well. They weren't rich, but they were doing more than surviving too. They were living.

When Ella decided to write the letter, he'd come back after a long day of work slightly sun burnt and very tired, but he was still happy to see her, so he pulled her to him and kissed the tip of her nose. "I'm a little sore, but it was good. How was your day?"

He glanced over her shoulder as she hugged him, glancing the neat little letter as she explained what she had been up to. To be honest, Josephine and her father was not a common topic of conversation with them. He knew she missed them, Josie especially, but it was a complicated thing and he wasn't sure how to bring them up without making her feel guilty or making himself feel guilty. He had always told her he didn't want to come between them, and well... he was afraid he had done just that.

"I'm sure something is better than nothing," he offered. If there was one thing he knew about Josephine, it was that that girl could worry until she made herself physically ill. She could hold a grudge, too, as Ella said, and he was sure she was upset, but... "She probably is angry. Maybe even rightfully so. But I know that you know she loves you more than anything. Maybe she's angry now, but I can't imagine she won't feel a little bit of relief knowing you're okay."

He pulled back enough to look at her, ignoring her question about food for a moment to make sure she was feeling alright. "How have you been feeling about it? I know we don't really talk about it much, but... if you wanted to go back. To visit. You know we can. It doesn't have to be now, if you don't want, but whenever you're ready, I'll take you."

------

After hours turned into days, and their search remained fruitless, Josephine dealt with it the only way Josephine knew how. She didn't. Instead she started throwing all of her extra energy and care into the wedding and into her father. Josie was lucky to have Alec, but her father only had her now, and Ella leaving was not great for him. So she tried to be strong around him. She even discussed with Alec postponing the wedding by a few weeks. She didn't want to, but she worried about what it would do to him if she left too, even if it was a marriage he approved of. It took her weeks to build up the courage to tell him about the engagement. But in the end, her father was as happy for her as any good father could be.

"At least I know one of my daughter's is in good hands," he had said to them.

For the wedding itself, Josie had decided to keep it small. It wasn't exactly the grand wedding she envisioned growing up, or anything like the parties she loved to help her father throw, but it was perfect for her and Alec. It was charming in its simplicity, and every detail from location to guest list was meticulously planned and thought out. She'd invited family and the few friends she'd had. She even extended an invitation to John and Logan as a gesture to try and make peace. Logan she had decided wasn't so bad as she thought before, and she had one cousin in particular who she thought might make a good match for him. And well, for John, there was a part of her still holding out hope that he might forgive her and decide to be friends. He was a large factor in it even being possible to marry Alec, so she felt like it was only fitting she invite him.

Then there was the dress. Her father was helping to pay for the wedding and she knew that she would no longer be able to indulge in her old spending habits once the wedding was over. That meant the wedding dress was one of her few remaining chances to experiment with fashion the way she always liked to. She wanted Alec to see her and have his breath taken away - for it to be a moment he'd remember with picture perfect clarity for the rest of her life. So she spent hours consulting with the dressmaker, adjusting small details, and getting it fit to her exact size. It was the perfect shade of white to compliment her skin, hair, and eye color, and the fabric was the softest silk and lace she could find. As she looked at herself in the mirror with it on, she felt like a princess.

The only thing... the only thing that could make this better was Ella. She pushed a strand of hair back into place with a shaking, nervous hand and swallowed the lump in her throat when the knock came.

Staring at the maid, it took her a moment to register what she was saying. Then her eyes drifted towards the letter and she felt her body go cold. What a funny feeling it was to long for your sister so much and yet feel so bitter about how she wasn't here. Instead she was sending letters to her on her wedding day.

"Thank you," she said to the maid, taking the letter and sending her away. She sat down at her vanity chair, letter in hand. It took her a full five minutes to open it. Another few to actually start reading it. By the time she was done, she was already crying. Wedding nerves, excitement, and the lack of sleep were mixing with all the emotions she'd suppressed for months. She wasn't sure what to think of it yet, only that she wasn't sure she was ready to forgive. The only thing she could think was how much she wanted to tell Alec, but how much she also just wanted to focus on him. On them. As a couple. On their wedding day.

She took a deep breath, wiped her tears away. She decided Ella wouldn't be allowed to ruin today like she had her engagement night, and that she would tell Alec tomorrow. After they were married. After they celebrated all they had been through to finally be together. So she fixed her makeup, touched up her hair, and prepared herself to take her vows.
 
Ella hugged her husband a little tighter when he said that he was sore. She didn't know why he always went for the manual labor type jobs when they made him so tired, but he worked hard and she appreciated every hour he put into providing for the two of them. "Hm. Maybe I'll give you a massage later," she said with a smirk, reaching up to rub his shoulders. "My day was fine. It was slow so they sent me back earlier. I mean, I think that's what they said." Ella was proud to be able to contribute, too. Sure, maybe there were other things she would rather be doing and she would have loved to be able to get that degree, but it wasn't like she could become a teacher and travel the way they had been. Little jobs like this were perfect for their lifestyle, and Ella wasn't about to sit around while Peter worked for the both of them.

She was nervous about sending the letter, but Peter helped to set her mind at ease. Josephine was probably angry, there was no way around that. But at least Ella wasn't going to face her- she didn't know if she'd ever work up the courage. She knew that Peter had never wanted to come in between her and her family members and unfortunately in some way he had, but she didn't fault him for it. On the other hand, her family had tried to come between her and her love. "You're right. At least she'll probably be happy I'm not dead."

He was right about another thing too- they never talked about her family. It was a sensitive topic for obvious reasons, so they just...didn't talk about it. They had no plans to go back anytime soon and they were loving their life together. Ella didn't want to be stuck in the past when there was so much to be looking forward to in the future. "No," she said firmly when Peter asked if she'd like to go back. "I don't want to go back. If we go back now they'd make us feel too guilty to ever leave again." She didn't know if that was true, but she loved what they were doing now. Ella loved her life, and for the first time she felt truly free. It was too soon to go back when there was still so much world to see, and Ella liked their plan.

"I haven't actually thought about it much," she admitted. "I miss them, of course I do. And one day we'll go back. But I'm happy here with you. I don't need anything else." She pulled him close and pressed a kiss to his lips before backing up and picking up the letter and a small assortment of coins. It would have crushed Ella to know that Josephine viewed receiving the letter as something that could ruin her wedding day; she hoped that her sister would be happy to hear from her. But she had no way of knowing how long it would take to arrive, only that it eventually would.

"I'm going to go send this. Come with me?" She laced her hand through his and pulled him towards the door. "I really do want dinner. Is it strawberry season in Spain? I'm craving them." Probably just because now she was thinking about home, and the strawberries she liked to steal from Rory's garden.

***
​
Surprisingly, Alec wasn't nervous at all for the wedding. Big ceremonies were out of his comfort zone especially when he was the center of attention, but if it was good enough for Josephine than it was more than good enough for him, and he was just excited to finally begin their lives together. It felt like they'd been fighting for so long, and now finally their dream was being realized. Even if the wedding arch fell on top of them as they were saying their vows, Alec didn't think he'd see the ceremony as anything less than perfect.

He was a little bit worried about reacting the correct way, though. He knew that Josephine had put a lot of work into the ceremony, her dress, everything, but Alec was such a simple man and it was hard for him to place much importance on those things. He just wanted to marry her, and he knew that Josephine knew how much he loved her, but he was worried that if he didn't cry when she walked down the aisle she would be upset. All of that was just his insecurities trying to remind him how much he didn't deserve her. Alec hoped he would get over all of that someday, but no matter what he hoped that Josephine knew how much he truly adored her. He would do anything for her, and they had earned this ceremony with the blessing of her father. It might put him slightly out of his comfort zone, but he was going to enjoy it. How could he not? It was truly a dream come true.

It was weird to be inside the mansion and not go see Josephine, but he knew she'd kill him if he saw her dress before the ceremony started. Once he was dressed and had combed his usually messy hair a thousand times, he headed downstairs. It was almost as tempting to help Rory in the kitchen as it was to go see his bride before the ceremony actually started, but not wanting to get anything on his suit he managed to refrain. Instead, he sought out Josephine's father.

Mr. Sinclair was thrilled for his oldest daughter, although similarly to Josephine it wasn't just her on his mind today. There was one person who was obviously, painfully absent from the ceremony and although today was about Josephine and Alec, Ella's absence was felt. In the days leading up to his daughter's wedding he'd been reflecting on the choices of his youngest daughter. Slowly, his heart was beginning to soften as more than anything, he just wished she would come home. Any bitterness he felt towards Peter was overshadowed by his desire to see Ella again. When Josephine was married she would move in with Alec and Mr. Sinclair faced an empty house, a mansion without his girls. The father loved his daughters, and already the loneliness was beginning to sink in.

"Alec, my boy," Mr. Sinclair said, seeing the groom as he walked down the stairs. "That's a very nice suit."

"Thank you, sir," Alec replied with a gentle smile. "I considered a tux but-"

"They're damn uncomfortable and make you look like a penguin."

"Yes, exactly," Alec chuckled. He glanced towards the gardens. "Have the guests started arriving?"

"They have, but there's no need to go stand in the heat until it's time. I'd like to discuss something with you." Mr. Sinclair led Alec to his office where they each sat down, and moments later Alec found himself presented with Mr. Sinclair's last will and testament. "I'm leaving the estate to you and Josephine," he summarized. "There's a monetary provision for Ella should she decide to return, but the estate will be yours. This house has been in our family for generations and I want it to stay that way."

"Sir," Alec said in shock, gazing at the paper. "I'm honored. But why are you showing me this?" Mr. Sinclair let out a heavy sigh. The truth was, he knew his days were numbered. He knew his health was failing. It was possible he had a few more years left in him, but he was an old man.

"Because I want you to understand a few things," he began to explain. "First being, you are part of this family. Second, no matter what happens you will always have a home for your wife and children. You're a hard worker, Alec, and I don't doubt your ability to provide for your family. But should you ever need it, before or after my passing, you are always welcome here."

Those few words meant more to Alec than he could express. After years of living in the stables, going behind this man's back and fighting for Josephine's hand, he was promising him the estate. Promising him a place in the Sinclair legacy. "Thank you, sir," he managed, unable to find adequate words. "You've been so good to me. I'll do my best to earn it."

"You already have," Mr. Sinclair told him, standing. "Now, I believe your bride awaits." Alec left the mansion through the back door to stand at the wedding arch while Mr. Sinclair waited inside, ready to walk Josephine down the aisle.
 
Peter grinned and as she started to give his shoulders a rub, he couldn't help the small groan of satisfaction. It was hard work lifting and bending all day long, but honestly, there wasn't anything Peter would rather be doing. The thought of sitting in an office all day bored him and he loved that he was back out on the water or docks. He didn't miss pirating, but he missed the labor and adventure, so he found it anyway that he could. He was no longer employed by Mr. Lawrence, but once they saved up a little bit more money, he felt confident that he had gained the knowledge to get a start on his own.

"Mmm. How about I make you a deal? You give me massages when I need them, and I'll invest in one of those little pocket dictionaries for everywhere we go that speaks a different language," he offered. He knew a bit himself just from his lifelong traveling, but he could imagine it was difficult for her to manage sometimes.

When she said she didn't want to go back, he frowned with concern. He was glad she was happy with him, glad that they had come this far, but he was worried how much longer she'd be able to stay happy without speaking to her family. The letter was a small step towards mending that, at least, but it wasn't as though they had a way to write back. Of course, maybe that was the point.

"Well, do you?" he asked. "Feel guilty, I mean?" Peter did sometimes. Not for loving Ella, but for not having the willpower to let her go. Sometimes he did wonder if she would be better off without him, but he knew from experience that that was a conversation that never got them anywhere. She always talked him out of his feelings of self doubt.

He recognized that she wasn't ready though, and when she said as much, he could only nod his head in understanding. "Just let me know when you're ready," he said, kissing her back, then laughing because he knew she would bring up the strawberries eventually.

"Yes, as a matter of fact, I think I saw some in the market today. Come on, I'll get you some and whatever else it is you want to eat."

-----

Ella's letter was just something that had come at an imperfect time. Josephine hadn't had time to process or sort through her feelings with everything else that was going on, and receiving the letter, rather than put her at ease, only reminded her of Ella's absence. In some ways, yes, of course she felt relief knowing her sister was safe and doing well. She cared about Ella, and maybe it didn't seem like it at times, but Josie had always tried to do right by her. Every action she took, even when Ella didn't agree, was only because she wanted the best for her sister. Perhaps that's why she was hurting so much - it wasn't just that Ella was absent. It was that Ella had chosen somebody else.

She recalled that night shortly after they'd gotten home, before Alec was given a chance, and she had gotten a little too caught up in her head about the fear of losing him. She had asked him to run away with her like Ella had done with Peter. Alec had said no. He'd said no because he had understood then what it would have done to Josephine if she really did leave Ella behind. If it had come down to it, Josie would have chosen Ella before anyone, and it hurt to know that it hadn't played out that way with the roles reversed.

So maybe she could find some relief in that Ella was safe and well, but it would take time before she could learn to forgive it.

She folded the letter back up and stuffed it into her overnight bag. Most of her things had already been delivered to Alec's house, but the last bag she would take with her tonight after the wedding. It carried all of the essential things she'd needed up until the day of, and there she knew the letter would be safe until she was ready to revisit it again. For now she just wanted to try and be happy and present for Alec on their day.

From the window she watched as the guests arrived and the servants rushed around making sure everything was running smoothly, and eventually there was a knock at her door to tell her that it was time. She wandered downstairs, sending a maid to scout ahead of her to make sure Alec wasn't lurking around any unseen corners and that he'd taken his place. She'd worked hard to keep him from seeing the dress until the right moment, and she wasn't about to be careless now.

Finding her father waiting in the foyer before the back entrance into the garden, she took his arm and gave him a kiss on the cheek. For as much hell as it seemed he'd put her through, none of it mattered now that he was supporting her on her big day. She wondered if he had gotten a letter too, but if he had, he didn't let it show on his face.

"You look handsome, father," she said, smiling softly at him. He may have called them uncomfortable penguin suits just moments before, but Mr. Sinclair was a man of class and appearances. He looked distinguished his tux. It hit her quite suddenly how old he really was getting now, although she had no idea that he was already planning a will and testament, or that he'd even had a conversation with Alec about the estate already. She'd just essentially lost a sister, she wasn't really ready to contemplate life without her father, too. Although, she was thankful he was here to walk her down the aisle.
 
Ella beamed at his proposition and nodded, liking the idea. She was able to pick up a few words and phrases everywhere they went, but they never stayed long enough for her to fully understand the people that she talked with. A little dictionary would help her figure it out and maybe even study up on the languages before they arrived. And, she was happy to give Peter all the massages he wanted. "Deal," she said happily.

When he asked if she ever felt guilty, Ella only shrugged. "I mean...I feel guilty because I hurt them," she said, "but I know I'd do it all again. And I know that Josie doesn't see eye to eye with me on this kind of thing. She probably feels rejected, like I chose you over family, but I don't think I did. If she ran away with Alec I wouldn't think she loved me any less. I'm sure she feels that way, though. That's why I need to write her. But I know Father understands, even if he doesn't like it. Sometimes family extends beyond the people who share your DNA. You're my family, too, and I wasn't about to lose you." She pressed a kiss to his lips. "Do you feel guilty? Well, I know you do. But you shouldn't, you did nothing wrong."

Ella didn't really want to talk about all this, though, so when he jumped on the idea of strawberries Ella perked up with a smile. She always got a craving for them every now and then, and while they were never quite as good as right off the bush in Rory's garden, she enjoyed them all the same. The couple ventured out into the little town and sent Ella's letter before hunting down the strawberries and settling down in a little pub that served food and had a glorious view of the ocean.

"Do you think you'll work tomorrow?" Ella asked as she munched on her strawberries and took a sip of her drink. "I thought it'd be nice to take a few days off before we go to Portugal. But you know, money." Ella sighed. She'd decided she really hated money, and while Ella and Peter had enough for everything they wanted to do it didn't mean they didn't have to budget.

***
​
Alec took his place by the wedding arch, finding that he was quite uncomfortable with so many people looking at him. He never was a man that liked to the be center of attention, and it was clear that most of the people there were judging him. Alec only had a few friends he'd seen fit to invite, those who helped him in his own stables and some of the men he hung out with on the rare occasion that he went into town. But he didn't have many friends; few men were as introverted and quiet as Alec was, and even when he went to pubs he drank in silence and left before he had a chance to get drunk and actually become more social. Most of these people were high class like Josephine and her father, and it was difficult to not linger on it.

Then suddenly, the doors leading outside to the garden opened and the musicians began to play whatever song Josephine had selected. Alec didn't know what it was and he didn't care; actually, he barely heard it. All of his senses became fixated on Josephine. Her dress was stunning, as was to be expected. It fit her perfectly and was exactly her style. She was stunning in it, and Alec had to resist the urge to pinch himself. A man like him shouldn't have a bride like her, but here they were, and he wouldn't trade this moment for the world. All the judgmental people that had been intimidating him disappeared and he mentally chided himself for being so absorbed in it. They didn't matter. It didn't matter who was here, what they thought of him or what anyone thought of their marriage. All that mattered was that he loved Josephine, she loved him, and they'd earned her father's blessing together.

Mr. Sinclair brought his daughter forward and gave her away into Alec's arms. Alec took her hands and offered her a smile, remaining silent as the priest began his spiel. "Dearly Beloved, we are gathered here today in the presence of these witnesses, to join Alec Mason and Josephine Sinclair in matrimony..." The priest went on for what felt like literal ages and Alec just looked at Josephine, waiting for his cue. When it finally came, he offered a slight smile and nodded.

"I do," he declared softly. The priest repeated the vows and then looked to Josephine. Alec held his breath in anticipation of hearing her say those two words.
 
Peter wasn't quite so sure Josephine would have run away with Alec. Not because he didn't think she loved him, not because their situation didn't call for it, but because Peter honestly believed Josephine's love for her sister had no limits. He'd seen that on the pirate ship when she'd tried to sacrifice her own safety and body so Ella wouldn't have to. If the mermaid encounter hadn't happened, Alec would have let her do it too. Again, not because he didn't love her, but because he knew Alec knew how much Josephine loved her sister. Had Josie tried to run away, there was no doubt in his mind that the situation would have gone similarly. This he didnt' say.

What he did say, and what he knew for certain, was that it was the same kind of love that meant Josephine wouldn't be able to stay angry forever. She needed Ella just as much as Ella needed her. Kissing his wife's brow, he gave a nod. "I'm not sure she'd see it the same way at first, but... she is your sister and that obviously means a lot to her. She'll soften over time and you'll make amends. I think the letter is a good idea. And for the record, I do feel guilty sometimes, but I'm glad things happened the way they did. I would have had a hard time losing you, too."

He gave her a grin and then that was that. They mailed the letter were strolling through the market. He bought her her strawberries, and as they wandered, he'd occasionally snake one from her basket himself. They eventually wound up at the pub, and he'd ordered a mug of ale like always and some soup. He listened with curiosity to the words some of the early drinkers were trying to sing a few tables over with not much clarity, when Ella interrupted with her thoughts.

Money was always tight. He was starting from the bare bottom and he'd spent all of his savings from working prior to the whole arrest debacle on the boat to get them from point A to B. Then between bills for food and board when they weren't on the water, it was hard to save. He looked at her with a slight pained expression, because he'd love a day or two off, he just wasn't sure he could afford it right now. "I don't know, Ella," he said. "I'd love to spend more time with you, but we have to survive, too. If we could save a little more, then I could look into trying to get into the business again. Maybe even start my own?" This was a topic he was always somewhat afraid to approach with her. She'd grown up privileged and he knew she didn't mind hard work, but sometimes he worried he wasn't able to give her exactly what she wanted. To make sure she was comfortable, he had to work. But working meant less time spent with her, too.

------

As the music began playing and it was time for her to walk, Josie could hardly believe this was all really happening. To think marrying Alec used to be something of a fantasy for her, and now here they were, actually getting married, and with her father's blessing at that. There were butterflies in her stomach and she couldn't contain the smile on her face. Her eyes locked on his from across the way, and just like him, everybody else melted away. The stress of planning, the worry, even the anger she felt towards Ella today was behind her for this moment. All that mattered right now was him and her.

She joined him at the alter, barely breathing as she took his hands. She could tell by the way that he was looking at her that the dress had done it's job, but more importantly, that he loved her. He looked handsome, too, even if he'd worn the suit instead of a tux. It fit his personality better and she didn't think she would want it any other way. Maybe there were some in the audience tonight that were judging him for it, or her for loving him, but they didn't matter. She smiled again to hear him say those two little words.

When it was her turn, she barely even registered what the priest was saying, she was so focused on Alec and on what was to come for them, but she didn't miss a beat. "I do," she repeated back to him, giving his hands a gentle squeeze.

The priest nodded. He held out the rings for them to take. When they'd announced their engagement finally, father had decided it was time to pass along her mother's ring. He wasn't ready to part with his own to give to Alec, but he had helped pay for one so that they had some symbol of love for their wedding day. She slipped the golden band onto his finger and allowed Alec to do the same. When the exchange was over, the priest continued on to say those final anticipated words. "Then by the power vested in me, I pronounce you husband and wife. You may now kiss the bride."

Josie lifted herself up on her toes to meet him halfway. It was, she realized, the first real display of how much they loved each other in such a public fashion, and their first kiss as a married couple. There was something sort of romantic about that, and even as the kiss ended, she pulled herself closer to him so they could walk back down the aisle together arm and arm.

When they reached the foyer again and the servants started to move past them in a frenzy to start the ball rolling on the festivities for the remainder of the night, she turned to him and pulled him in for another kiss, one that was a little more passionate than what she knew he was comfortable with in front of all of those people. "I can't believe I finally get to call you my husband, now. I am Josephine Sinclair no more," she said , smoothing out a wrinkle in his shirt that she'd created a moment before. Technically they still had to sign the papers, but the priest would meet them in a few minutes to do that before they joined the rest of the people for food, cake, drinks and dancing. And then, the really crazy part to her, was that she would be leaving this estate behind and moving in with him. They would go from sneaking around in the stables to sharing a bed together - and everybody would be okay with it because they were married.

"And, now when I go to bed smelling like horses, it won't be because I had spent the night secretly kissing my boyfriend in the stables, but because I'll be sleeping next to my husband, who spent the day working in the stables so he can provide for me, his wife."
 
Peter was probably smart not to voice those particular thoughts to Ella, who would certainly have taken offense. She didn't think it was about who loved the other more, although no one could deny that Josephine had always been protective of her little sister. Any older sibling was, and that was probably part of it. Not only did Ella choose to leave and marry Peter, a man that Josephine had always disapproved of, it probably felt like she had ultimately failed to protect her. And now, although Ella would forever swear that she didn't need protection that role had passed to Peter. Ella wished that Josephine wouldn't take her marriage to the man she loved as a personal attack but knew she probably had, and unfortunately Ella hadn't been there to calm the storm.

She hated that Peter felt guilty, but that was part of what made him so great. He thought about consequences while Ella would run wild unchecked, and he was sensitive to the feelings of others. She groaned slightly at his last comment, leaning her forehead against his chest. "That's the thing, they didn't lose me," she argued. "It wasn't meant to be a 'goodbye,' it was a....'see you later.' We're going back, eventually." Ella had never once considered the possibility that they would never go back, and she didn't intend to.

Ella was appeased by her strawberries, and she munched on them as they ventured through the streets to find dinner. She ordered a sandwich at the pub and snuck a few sips of his ale, setting the remaining strawberries between them to share. She sighed at his answer, glancing out over the railing to the ocean. "We're surviving just fine. I have everything I want-" she stopped when he mentioned saving. Oh. Well, that was different. They had plenty of money for what they needed on a daily basis, but not enough to actually save.

"The...merchant business?" she clarified. She knew that Peter would be great at it, but her one concern was settling down. The last thing Ella wanted to do was hold Peter back from doing something he wanted, but she selfishly still wanted to travel. A business like that- any kind of business, really- required roots. He couldn't be a merchant and travel the way they had been for the past several months. They'd have to decide on a place to live and then take trips every month or so. Ella's stomach twisted at the notion that she might become a housewife.

So far they'd done well at avoiding pregnancy by monitoring Ella's cycle, and she intended to keep it that way. But even to save enough for such an endeavor, they needed to find somewhere more permanent and figure out some decently steady jobs. Ella twirled her glass of water around, thinking about it. "I think that would be great," she said, choosing her words carefully. "And I know you could do it. But where would we live? You know we'd have to find somewhere. And I wouldn't want to be left alone, but I guess I'd just come with you. Can't get rid of me that easy." She kicked his leg across the table playfully.

***
​
Alec couldn't help but smile when she said her own "I do," and leaned in to gently kiss her. The crowd clapped politely as Alec escorted his bride back down the aisle. He felt like he might just float right off the ground with happiness, but there was still the party to contend with. He kissed Josephine back, flushing slightly as the guests and servants stared. It was all happening so quickly and Alec felt like he couldn't keep up, but he was happy. He chuckled as she smoothed out the wrinkle in his shirt, pulling her close to his chest.

"No, I suppose you'll have to leave that pretty name behind you," he told her. He laughed again as she went through the terminology, tucking back a few stray curls that had become dislodged in the breeze. "Yes, love, I'm quite aware of the titles. The dress is beautiful. Your design?" He bent forward and pressed a kiss to her cheek, then closer to her ear. "Now, what are my chances of skipping the party and stealing my wife away to her new home?" He knew it would be tempting, but also knew that everyone had worked hard on the party as well.

All the guests began to move by them towards the dining room, offering congratulations as they went. Alec was impatient to go home and finally begin their life together, but he looked at the mansion with new eyes. One day, they might live here. Would he like that? He nodded graciously to the guests passing by until they were all gathered in the dining room. Alec and Josephine entered soon after and he pulled the chair out for her before sitting down to a full plate of food and a glass of champagne.

It all went by in a blur. There were speeches and dances and more food than Alec could ever eat. The cake was amazing, and Alec did find that he rather enjoyed the reception. All of the luxuries were nice, but more than any of that he enjoyed Josephine's presence at his side, as his wife. He would never be fully comfortable surrounded by such finery, but now he was one of them. He belonged. It was late before the guests finally began to trickle out and when the dining room was finally empty, Alec swept Josephine up into a passionate kiss. "Do you have your bag?" he murmured. once they had it, they bid her father farewell for the evening. They'd be back in the morning to collect the rest of Josephine's things, but for now that was a problem for tomorrow. Once they stepped out of the mansion, Alec finally let his guard down.

Scooping Josie up into his arms, he brought her back to the stables and saddled up her horse before mounting his own. After a short gallop back to the house, he put up the horses in the stable and led her inside.

"Look, I decorated," he said proudly, gesturing to the poorly arranged furniture. There were wildflowers on the small dining table. It was small, but he'd tried to do more with the space. "I mean, I figure you'll redecorate it, but...I wanted to make it look more like home. Our home." He pressed a soft kiss to her lips. "I love you so much."
 
Peter wasn't sure what more he could really say. He and Ella had made decisions that there were now consequences for and they had to find some way to live with them. If they were lucky they would find a way to resolve things with her family - if they were unlucky, he just hoped Ella would be able to make peace with that. He knew she loved her father and her sister, but they were all three of them very different people who expressed that love in different ways.

He kissed her lightly, pulling back some hair from her face. "I know," he said. "Let me know when and we'll go."

Back at the pub, he watched her expression carefully, trying to read her reaction. His intentions weren't really to settle down, rather to make sure they could live comfortably while still doing the things they loved to do. To have enough money to get by when the unexpected happened. Besides, doing what he was doing now... working along the docks helping the fisherman or moving boxes full of supplies for the people who actually did own businesses... he didn't mind that it got them enough to live by, but he didn't think it could satisfy much of his ambitions. They were traveling, yes, but they didn't get to do much visiting - not with the cities and not with each other. If he had a business it meant he could take a break every once in a while. Take her places she wanted to go and actually spend time with her.

"Well, yeah..." he said, confirming that he was talking about the merchant business. He raised a brow at her, feeling like she was holding something back, then widened his eyes in surprise with the playful kick. He grinned with the corner of his mouth and returned it with one of his own before shaking his head. "Of course you'd come with me," he said. "You're always going to be come with me. Why would you think I'd ever leave you behind?"

He took a sip of his drink then leaned forward, elbows on the table. "Ella, even if we had a permanent address, it's not like we'd really live there... maybe we'd make enough to rent out an office to come back to from time to time, but we'd still be doing what we're doing now most of the time. Just... with more money. So you don't have to work in the kitchens and I can do something more significant than hull crates around all day before I get to be with you."

-----------------------

Josie smiled, quite content with the fact that she was no longer a Sinclair, but a Mason. It would take some getting used to, of course, but it was a trade well worth it.

As he complimented the dress, the smile only grew. She pulled away from him long enough to spin and give him a full view before returning to his arms. "I had to make it special. I only get to wear it once, so I'm glad I've made a good impression," she explained, then flushing at the suggestion he made in her ear. Maybe it was completely innocent, but it didn't escape Josie that there was another implication of their marriage now. She just hadn't anticipated Alec being the one to bring it up so soon or so boldly considering their awkward dance around it since their relationship began. "Patience, love," she said, echoing the use of his favorite pet name for her. "What's a few more hours? We have guests." Kissing him on the cheek, she pulled him out the join the party.

As eager as she was to also start their new life together, Josephine was also eager to treasure the actual day as best she could. She knew in some ways it was uncomfortable for Alec to be dressed up and surrounded by people he didn't think he fit in with, but the wedding was the first time she felt like their relationship was being publicly acknowledged - maybe not everyone was approving, but at least now everybody knew. And as she made the proper rounds around to the different guests, some of her more hopeless romantic friends commented on how handsome Alec was and how they would have married him if he'd rescued them from a pirate ship, too. Of course, even if that hadn't happened, Josephine would still have chosen to marry him, but it was nice to hear that not everybody was judging them.

Honestly, she was more worried about what the few friends he'd invited would think of her. Alec felt out of place among the people in her social circles, but she was leaving that social circle now for the most part and entering his. She was afraid they'd think she thought too highly of herself, judge her for coming from a world of money - even if she was choosing to leave it behind. She was pleasantly surprised to find they were friendly towards her, though, at least outwardly, and she looked forward to getting to know them better in the future.

She missed, Ella, though, and try as hard as she might to try not to think about her, her absence weighed heavily on her. She still smiled, chatted, danced, and celebrated for the party. She still enjoyed herself. But she still kept hoping she'd look over and see her sister celebrating with her, all the way up until the guests were leaving and Alec helped her up onto her horse. She actively ignored the letters presence in her bag, setting it down just inside the entrance as they finally arrived home.She'd been here before, obviously, and not much had changed, apart from Alec's efforts to make it inviting for her, but there was a distinct difference in that it wasn't just Alec's place anymore. It was hers, too.

Looking around first, then up at him, she could hardly believe they'd come so far. He'd arranged furniture for her. Because they had a future together now that didn't take place in a stable. Wrapping her arms around his neck, she threaded her fingers through his short hair. "Alec, with you, anywhere would feel like home." She kissed him back and let the truth of his words sit with her for a moment before she said them back to him. "I love you, too." Then kissed him again, a little deeper this time.
 
"Just with more money." He made it sound so simple, like it wouldn't be hard work, but Ella knew these things were easier said than done. "I don't mind working in the kitchens," she added, not wanting him to think she was in any way discontent. "I like earning my own money, and I don't know what else I'd do all day. Take up knitting?" They didn't have kids and they didn't have any plans to have some, so she'd probably just spend all day in their room reading. Ella knew, deep down, that she still wanted to go to university. That was something she might be able to do, but she didn't feel like bringing it up right now. It was a long shot, and she didn't have any concrete plans to pursue it now that so much had changed.

And Ella did want more for Peter. He was so smart, so talented and so warm and friendly to everyone they met; he would be the perfect merchant. And she knew he'd be a joy to work for because he'd treat his employees like actual human beings and conduct his business ethically. Ella knew he would be successful and she wanted that for him, but it was just...such a big risk. How did you even go about starting a venture like that? She was encouraged that he intended on keeping his promise to always take her with him and it did sound like it would be a good life...if it worked.

"I know you'd be great at it," she said finally, "and I want you to have success. I just don't want to lose everything that we have now. And I guess I just don't know how we'd do it. But if it's something you want to do, I'll support you."

***
​
Alec enjoyed himself at the party, and it was nice to see his few friends be receptive of Josephine. Certainly nobody was looking down on him for somehow managing to marry a rich girl, but she'd made a good impression on them. She wasn't too uptight; she couldn't be, to be marrying a man like himself, and she was the life of the party. For the most part Alec sat back and watched, but he didn't mind in the slightest. Josephine was the star of the show, and he was just the lucky guy who got to sit next to her.

When the final guests trickled out, though, he was grateful to return home. To their home. It was still so surreal, and Alec didn't know when it would all truly hit him. But it started to when she came inside with him, acknowledging the small house as her home. He kissed her back, holding her so tightly that her feet lifted off the ground. He didn't quite have a honeymoon planned, but he had every intention of taking it easy for the next several days, not worrying about his business and just focusing on building their home together. But for tonight, the sparsely decorated little house would have to do. Scooping her up into his arms, Alec brought his wife upstairs to the bedroom they now shared, where they spent their first night together as husband and wife. And it was entirely worth the wait.

The next morning when Alec woke up, he felt like he was in a dream. The sunlight poured through the window that looked out onto the green pastures and the stable, illuminating the room and falling onto Josephine's pale skin. Alec always woke with the dawn, but instead of getting out of bed right away he took a moment to just admire her. Not wanting to wake her up, he finally did get out of bed and pull on his clothes, heading downstairs to make breakfast for the two of them. He wasn't a great cook, nowhere near as good as Rory, but he liked the thought of making breakfast for his wife and he managed to put together some eggs and bacon, which he brought back upstairs.

"Morning, love," he murmured, setting the plate on her bedside table and settling in on the other side of the bed where he began to eat his own food.
 
Peter searched her face, trying to read in it what she might be thinking behind those eyes of hers. "Then work in the kitchens," he said. "Earn your own money. What you do with your time is up to you." He had to smile at the thought of her knitting though - it was just not something he ever thought Ella would do. When he imagined her sitting in a chair, she had a book in her hands, not a knitting needle.

"I just don't want us to struggle," he clarified. "I don't want you to have to work in the kitchens, and I know you say you don't mind, but I just thought it would be nice to actually be able to take care of you like a husband should. If we could afford it, we could still travel, but maybe... I don't know, maybe you could pursue your own dreams, too? University?" If she wasn't going to bring it up, he would. He never meant for this to be a point of tension for them, but he wanted her to see where he was coming from. It wasn't just about what he wanted.

He reached across the table and took her hand. "You can't lose what you don't have," he said. "And the only thing I could truly ever need told me she would never leave me. Besides, it will... it will take time. But if you want me to take time off from working and spend it with you, I will. So long as I can still make sure you have food to eat by the end of it, that is."

------

For the most part, Alec made it easy to forget everything that had been troubling her since their engagement. For once, it wasn't their relationship she was worried about. In fact, she had never felt more secure in that than she did now. They were finally married, and when he kissed her, took her upstairs to their bed, and finally got a taste of what it was like to share quite literally everything with the person she loved, she was the happiest she had ever been. For a little while anyway, she didn't have to think or actively ignore her troubles. She could just be and enjoy their togetherness. She fell asleep easy, physically exhausted, but comfortable in his arms.

Unlike Alec, Josie wasn't much of an early riser. She never had to be, and usually just woke whenever she felt rested. That morning though, she rose a little earlier than usual when she smelled the bacon. She smiled to herself, glad to realize none of the day before had been only a dream, and got up to try and find something to put on. She hadn't unpacked last night, so she went to her bag to search for a plain dress to wear for the day, when she found the letter she'd tucked inside.

Frowning, she pulled a light, plain white dress over herself and tied it in the back without even bothering with a corset or any of the other mess she would usually prefer. If she was going to be lounging around the house with Alec anyway, it didn't much matter. She clambered back in a bed a moment later, opened the letter to reread it, when Alec came in with breakfast.

She looked up, gave him a thankful grin. "Morning," she echoed, waiting for him to climb in beside her to give him a kiss on the cheek. "I'm glad at least one of us knows something about cooking. Thank you." She was going to have to bother Rory for some cooking advise. She'd never had to do it before and the last thing she wanted to do was to accidentally poison her husband with underdone chicken.

It took her a few minutes to find the courage, if only because she didn't want to ruin the moments of happiness they'd found together, but she knew if she didn't say anything it would continue to eat at her. "I got a letter from Ella."
 
Ella glanced away when he mentioned university. She did want to go. She wanted to go and show all those stuck up men what a young woman was capable of when she set her mind on something. She wanted to write and learn under the leadership of great scholars, but she also wanted to be an example of what could be possible if their world was different. With a college degree, all kinds of different doors would be opened for her. She could be a teacher or a businesswoman, a philosopher or an author who actually had something to say. Ella wanted all of that, but she also wanted to see the world. She couldn't see the world from inside a classroom, and she felt like she was finally living her dream. There were some ups and downs, some pros and cons and a lot of hard work, but she liked it. Ella wasn't ready to slow down yet.

"University's not that important. Not if it doesn't fit into our lives. And without my father's money it would be years until we could afford it, even if you did start up a company." It was a hard truth, but a truth nonetheless. She offered a small smile when he placed his hand on top of hers. "Peter, I would never leave you," she assured him. "The only reason I'm hesitant is because I'm happy now. I told you, I have everything I want." Ella squeezed his hand and leaned over the table to kiss him on the lips.

"If you want to start a business I support you. But I want one guaranteed day off a week," she negotiated with a smile. "And no nights apart." That meant a couple of things- one, he couldn't stay out all night working, and two, he'd have to take her on all of his trips, no matter how short. "And if we have to find a permanent address, we go somewhere new once a month even if it's just the next town over. Does that sound fair?" She smiled at him hopefully. Ella didn't want to hold him back and she would follow him wherever he decided to go, but a business venture like this was a big decision. She knew that Peter had undoubtedly given it a lot of thought before finally bringing it up to her.

"I'm sorry," she added. "I don't mean to be discouraging. I just want to protect this. Protect us." She squeezed his hand again. "But I won't hold you back, I promise. I'll be right there with you."

***
​
Alec couldn't remember the last time he'd felt so happy. He couldn't believe that for the rest of his life, he'd be able to wake up next to Josephine, make breakfast for her and one day, for their children. It was the perfect, simple life he'd always dreamed of and today was day one.

He smiled to come upstairs and find her already awake, somewhat surprised but not disappointed. The way the sunlight came through the curtains, it was always bright in his bedroom and today was no different. Correction, their bedroom. He chuckled as he sat down next to her, digging into his food. Alec took notice of the piece of paper she'd been reading, but he didn't think much of it and didn't ask. "Well, I promise it won't get much better than this," he joked. Bacon and eggs was actually pretty extravagant for him, he usually just made a sandwich and called it a day. Any idiot could slap together a sandwich. "We'll have to figure out real cooking together."

Alec knew she'd be great at it, once she learned the basics. Josie could do anything she set her mind to, but not only that, she was a perfectionist and grew up with very high standards of what good food was. He had no doubt that they'd be eating like kings eventually. He didn't want to make her cook all the food, but she'd definitely have to do some of it. "How did you sleep?" he asked curiously, wondering how this bed measured up to her other one? Alec hadn't really been in Josephine's room back at the mansion, at least not for an extended period of time, and knew that this one was much smaller, too. Still, it was cozy and came with its own comforts.

When she announced that she'd received a letter from Ella, his eyes widened slightly in surprise. "Oh?" They hadn't heard from Ella since she left and Alec was curious as to how she was doing, but he was more concerned about the way the letter could have affected Josephine. His dark eyes found the sheet of paper next to her. "May I?" he gently reached for the letter and skimmed it, not wanting to overanalyze her sister's words but wanting to see why she'd seen fit to write. When he'd finished, he put the paper back down and looked at Josephine.

"Well...she's safe, that's a good thing. We knew they were going to get married, and I do believe that she would have wanted to be with us yesterday." He put a comforting hand on her knee. "Ella never missed a party," he added as a joke. "So this...this is a good thing. Right?" He could hardly believe that they'd made it all the way to Spain, with plans to travel even farther. He hesitated for only a moment before asking, "Are you still angry with her?"
 
Somehow Peter was saddened to hear her say University wasn't important anymore. He knew how happy she was when she got accepted, so he didn't like to see her throw that away, even if part of the reason she had was because she'd chosen him. He just didn't think that had to be part of a whole separate life for her. They'd made what they had now together, they could make anything else fit if they tried.

"I wasn't supposed to fit into your life," Peter pointed out. "And yet, here we are. I know you say you have everything you want, I just don't see why we can't strive for more. I'm not arguing that I don't love what we have, or that you shouldn't, I just think there are some things we both set out to do before we were married that we shouldn't just give up on now that we are." He hoped that made sense.

He was glad he had her support, though. It wasn't just that he wanted this so he could do more for her, it was that he actually really wanted this for himself. He'd found a passion when he started working for Mr. Lawrence, and although that opportunity was gone now, he knew he could still make a name for himself. What better way was there to combine his love of the sea, travel, and adventure? He could take Ella with him. He could be known as something other than the man who used to be a pirate.

Peter had to give Ella a smile, if only because she made it sound like her negotiations were somewhat of a challenge. They weren't. "Ella, my first priority is always and will always be you. I would have done all of that without having to agree to it, but if it makes you feel better, then I promise you'll get that and then some. You don't need to worry about us. I love you."


-------

"It just so happens I love eggs," Josie said, grabbing hold of her own plate so she could start in on the food. It was a nice surprise she wasn't expecting - him cooking for her - though she hoped she could successfully cook him a meal one day soon. "I'm sure Rory will be happy to show us a few of his tricks. I'll ask him when we stop by for the rest of my things." For now she was content with whatever would fill her stomach.

The bed was smaller than her one at home, but Josephine didn't mind. It was an upgrade from the hay bales they used to sit on back when he was in the stables, at least, and she'd been so tired and content after their day yesterday that it didn't matter. "Like a baby," she said, cuddling up next him. "Best sleep of my entire life." She'd probably be able to sleep on the hard floor if he was beside her.

She watched closely as he read the letter, wondering what his thoughts were. It obviously wasn't going to effect him the same way it did her. Ella wasn't his sister. Or she was, now, technically, but by marriage, not blood. She knew he cared about her because Josie did, but it wasn't the same, so she was curious to see how he'd rationalize it. When he did say what he was thinking, she sighed and sat up, resting her head against the back of the bed. She felt differently this morning than she did yesterday, but it was still confusing.

"I don't know," she said, honestly. "I guess I am relieved. I think part of the reason all of this was so hard was the not knowing. I mean, we could speculate, but..." she shrugged. It was just part of who she was. She worried and she let the worst thoughts get the best of her.

"Maybe angry isn't the right word," she added. "I just feel like she should have been there yesterday, and I'm sad that she didn't trust me enough to have me be there with her. I miss her... but if she showed up now I don't think I could forgive it." She wasn't sure if that made any sense, but how she felt about all of this was complicated.
 
Ella huffed, putting her elbows on the table and holding her chin in her hands. "I didn't give up, I had to make a choice," she reminded him. "I just decided you were worth more than a piece of paper." Ella was doubtful that they would ever be able to afford university for her; higher education was out of reach for most anyone who wasn't from a wealthy family and it would take years for Peter to achieve the sort of business that would pay for that. Not that he couldn't do it, she knew that he could, but it would be more difficult than either of them knew.

"Peter, I'm going to be able to go to university anytime soon, I'm not dwelling on that and I don't want you to think that it's your fault or...or anything like that. I know I'm a little radical, but I've never really thought of myself as unrealistic," she added. "Don't worry about that. But do whatever makes you happy, do those things for me and that's all I want. I can learn more on my own than I'd ever learn in a stuffy classroom anyways." She smiled when he agreed to her terms, knowing that they weren't difficult now, but when he became busier they might be.

"Can I get it in writing?" she asked teasingly, leaning in. "I love you." Ella closed the distance between them and kissed him, lingering there for several long moments. It was hard to believe that their first kiss had happened on a pirate ship after they'd practically killed the captain and had gotten unbelievably drunk, and now they were married and lightly arguing over his future career. It wasn't a real argument, though. Ella wanted Peter to do whatever he wanted to do, so long as it didn't compromise the dreams they had for their lives together. She trusted him to make it a priority, though, and luckily Ella was the kind of wife that would tell him if she felt something was going wrong. This was their happily ever after, and she wasn't giving it up.

***
​
Alec smiled, leaning into her. He'd slept well too, and he was looking forward to their time together for the next week. It wasn't a grand honeymoon, but there wasn't going to be any work, any interruptions. They could do whatever they pleased.

He was worried that Ella's letter would put Josephine in a bad mood, though. He wanted to be there for her, but he also wanted her to be happy. Alec felt a little bit angry with Ella for causing Josephine so much stress and making her feel so abandoned, but he did understand why she'd made the decision she'd made. He listened to his wife calmly, reaching for her hand.

"In that case, then the worst of it is over," he pointed out. "We know Ella's safe, and happy. Isn't that the best we could hope for?" He knew she was angry that Ella had missed yesterday and Alec did wish she could have been there, but it wouldn't have been happy if she had been.

"Think of it this way," he said gently. "If she'd been there yesterday, she would have been married to Logan. She would have been so, so unhappy and might have even felt resentful of you. Of us. And instead of us sitting here thinking about how she was absent, you would be stressed about the affair she'd probably have had with Peter further endangering her reputation or speaking again about how unfair it all is." He was silent for a minute, letting her think about it.

"There was no way to win," he said. "We don't get to choose who we fall in love with. I fell in love with you, a girl I should never have been allowed to marry. Ella fell in love with a pirate. But the good thing is, that pirate would do anything for her. I know that. He's not a perfect man, but he'll take care of her just as I plan to take care of you." He pressed a kiss to her temple.

"If she does decide to come back, I hope you can forgive her," he added. "She loves you. She wouldn't have written that letter if she didn't."
 
"But you can have both," Peter countered. Maybe not right away... but he wanted everything for her. He knew she didn't need it, but he knew there was part of her that still wanted it, so she should get to have it. It was like him and the business he wanted to start. It was the dream they had before her father had him arrested - she would go to school, he'd start a career. They'd get to do some traveling every now and then. Things were different now, but they could still have some of that.

He smiled softly before leaning in to return her kiss. "I know you're happy. I'm happy, too. I just want us to support each other and do the things we love together." He threaded his fingers in hers and kissed the back of her hand. "We'll leave Spain shortly and go onto the next adventure soon. I promise."

Feeling more reassured now, Peter paid for the food and together they went back to the inn they were staying in. Marriage was a strange thing sometimes, but he never once regretted it since they made it happen and he knew that this was just the start of a long and beautiful life with Ella. Whether they did what they were doing now for years and years or they eventually decided they wanted more, he knew they would be happy together and that was all that really mattered.


-----

"I'm glad she's safe and I'm glad she's happy," Josephine agreed, but there was more to it than just that. She could be happy for her sister while still feeling disappointed, sort of like how a parent would feel sad after their children fled the nest. "I just wish it didn't happen the way it did. I wish she would have told me. Then I could have been there supporting her instead of feeling abandoned and guilty because she couldn't trust me. If it had happened that way, maybe she could have been there yesterday after all. With Peter, not Logan. We'd have been at each other's weddings just like we always thought we would be. And if not, at least I would have some closure about it."

She knew he was right, though. It hadn't happened the way she wanted it to, but she had to take what she could get. She even had to smile as he pointed out Peter would take care of Ella like Alec planned to take care of her because that was true. If Peter was even half the man Alec was, Ella was in good hands, and despite all her misgivings towards Peter she had started to warm up to him after a while.

"I know... you're right. And I think I will, someday, but right now..." she paused, letting a shrug fill the quiet. She only needed time to process things. Her relationship with her sister had always been close, but they were two very different people. Sometimes she struggled to understand her choices, and other times Josephine's love for her could be very selfish. This was just one of those times where she was struggling with both.

"I love you," she said after a moment, leaning over to give him a kiss. "Let's just focus on that for a while."


-----

A year later, a small sail boat pulled up at the docks outside of town. It was early afternoon and busy, so nobody really noticed as Peter helped his wife up onto the land from the boat. Nobody would have recognized them anyway - the pirate scandal long forgotten as new gossip emerged, and Ella looking still striking as ever but not the same without the clothes her father once afforded her. He helped to her feet and steadied her, both hands as her arms as they looked around the familiar town. It hadn't changed at all.

"Are you sure you're ready?" he asked her. She'd finally said she wanted to go visit home for the first time since they left it. In the meantime the only contact she'd had to her family were the letters she wrote, and even then, that was a one way conversation. They traveled so frequently there was no way for Josephine or her father to write back, so it was hard to say how they each felt about all of this or what their reaction would be when they saw them. If Peter was being honest with himself, he was worried to see what it was. He doubted his reception would be warm, but... he'd hate to see Ella's heart get broken.

Meanwhile, a visit from Ella was about the furthest thing from Josephine's mind. Married life was treating her well, and although she missed her sister, she found that overall she was quite happy. When Alec was working she found things to occupy herself with - learning to cook, decorating projects, sewing, or entertaining the wives of some of Alec's clients when they visited. And when Alec wasn't working, they spent their time together, whether that was playing games, in bed, or out on a walk into town.

Unfortunately, not all of life was perfect. Ella was gone, of course, but more recently they'd discovered that her father had grown ill. Josephine, being Josephine, wasn't taking it well for a number of reasons. In addition to having no way to tell her sister, this was how she'd watched her mother die as a child. It brought up old demons and Josie wasn't ready to lose her father. There was also the matter of knowing she was two months pregnant. It took her a while to figure out that the sickness she was feeling wasn't from worry like she originally thought. She had only made the connection when she realized her cycle was overdue. She hadn't told anyone yet, but it terrified to think that her father might never meet his grandchild.

She was at his bedside now, holding his hand and wiping a moist towel across his forehead. He was sleeping, but it was fitful. This made her look over at Alec, a furrow in her brow. "He's getting worse..." she said quietly.
 
A year later, Ella and Peter were still happily married and had been on more adventures than Ella could count. She never got tired of discovering new places, meeting different kinds of people and adapting to new cultures and truthfully, she could have done it for the rest of her life. Peter was the perfect companion and it hadn't been easy, but it was good. It was a good life. Still, after a year and a half without seeing her sister and her father, Ella began to feel her heart ache for home.

She'd kept it to herself for months. Also Peter had always promised they could go back whenever she wanted, Ella was afraid. Afraid of whether or not her family would be accepting of her and Peter, afraid that Josie wouldn't forgive her. It was easier to stay away and pretend like all was forgiven without actually having to face them, but sooner or later Ella knew she had to go back and face her past. Peter was looking to start his business soon after a year of research, networking and preparation. It didn't mean they were settling down, but it did mean they were moving into a new season, and before they did that Ella wanted to reconnect with her family. But that didn't mean she was prepared for what she might find there.

Stepping off the boat, she took Peter's hands and held them tightly as she gazed upon the familiar little town. Immediately she remembered why she left; the world was so big, and upon returning the town seemed so...small. But it was her childhood home all the same, and Ella felt an odd tugging in her chest. "No," she said to Peter, looking up at him. "I'm terrified. But we came all this way."

Given that the estate was a short distance from the main town, they had to rent a carriage to take them there. When the large house came into view Ella's heart stopped and she wished she could turn around and run away, become invisible and never set foot inside. She felt like a different person, a different girl than the one who had grown up there. Everything had changed. Ella knew she would make all the same choices again, but those choices had been some of the hardest she'd ever had to make.

When the carriage dropped them off, Ella squeezed Peter's hand tightly and when that wasn't enough, she looped her arm around one of his and clung to him as if her life depended on it. With her free hand she reached up to knock and held her breath.

Moments later, the massive door swung open. Instead of the butler it was Rory, and the man's aged face lit up when he saw Ella and Peter there.

"Miss Ella!" he said in disbelief. Entirely forgetting his position, he reached forward and wrapped his arms around the young woman, squeezing her tight. "Miss Ella. It's so good to see you, we were all so worried! I have so many strawberries I don't know what to do with them." Overwhelmed, Ella let out a sob and hugged the cook back.

"It's good to see you too," she choked out. "Is my father home?" She assumed that Josephine and Alec were at his house and was utterly unprepared to encounter them here- that was meant to be the second stop. Rory stepped back, a concerning look in his eyes as he nodded.

"Yes, Miss Ella. Please wait here, just one moment." He raced upstairs, knocking gently on Mr. Sinclair's door before poking his head in. "Miss Josephine...pardon the interruption, but you're going to want to come downstairs right away," he conveyed with urgency.

***
​
Alec was upstairs with Josephine, kneeling beside her with a comforting hand on her shoulder. Alec was a realist, and he understood that her father was dying. He knew that Josephine understood that too, and although he'd move heaven and earth to keep it from happening, to keep her from losing another one of her family members, he was powerless to stop the forces of nature and time. Mr. Sinclair was an old man who had lived a long, accomplished life. But his health had been in decline for several months and he'd been bedridden for over a week; with each passing day it became clear that his immune system wasn't strong enough to fight off the sickness. Alec only wished it could have been easier. Josie had lost her mother to the same kind of thing, nearly lost Ella to disease after they'd escaped the pirate ship, and now her father. It was too much.

"I know, love," he said softly, stroking her hair. "But we're doing all we can for him." He leaned in and pressed a kiss to her temple. "Why don't you go get some rest? I can watch him for a couple hours." Josie had hardly left his side and it was taking a toll on her- she had a habit of not taking care of herself when the people she loved needed her, but this couldn't be one of those times.

Before he'd had a chance to convince Josie she should go rest, there was a knock on the door and Rory pushed it open. His eyes were wide and immediately caused Alec to stand. His words were cause for concern as well.

"Is something wrong?" he asked. Rory shook his head.

"No, sir. Quite the opposite; something is very, very right." Rory didn't realize that Josephine might not see it the same way.

Intrigued, Alec looked at Josephine and offered his hand. The two left the room and rounded the corner to reach the top of the stairs, and Alec's heart dropped to his stomach. Ella.

She looked different, not quite as polished although she'd never been very into that anyways. Her hair was longer and more wild, tied back in a lose, wavy braid. Her clothes weren't as fancy either, but that was to be expected, and at her side was Peter. Alec felt some form of relief that they were still actually together; Ella's few letters had not implied any problems, but he'd personally never been convinced that two free spirits like Ella and Peter would actually be able to find long-term commitment. It was good to be wrong, every once in a while.

It only took a moment for Ella to recognize Alec and her sister at the top of the stairs, and her eyes widened, completely taken by surprise. "Josie," she said, stepping forward. Ella would have run to her, given her the biggest hug, but she had no idea how she and her husband were about to be received.
 
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