Chapter Fourty One - Nora - Of Proofs and Purchases

The little town room that had been rented out for the auction was filled to the brim- quite the turn out for something that everyone deemed pointless. Every bench seat was either saved or preoccupied by someone, and even I was feeling anxious to get the whole thing underway.

No doubt everyone turned out only because of the scandal involved around Mr. Harrington’s estate, and just to get a glimpse at the ‘charming’ Mr. Scotts. Personally, I only wanted to scoff in his direction and then give him the cold shoulder, but I supposed I was about the only girl in the room that would turn Nathaniel down at this point. As if to prove my point, Charlotte got up from her seat that had been directly behind me, and plopped herself down right next to Nathaniel, even going so much as leaning in and whispering to him intimately.

I turned my eyes away from the two and instead focused on helping Nelly sit still. Those two could have each other, for all I was concerned.

"I suppose it's time to begin the auction!" My father stood up at the podium, making his voice boom around the room. "So if everyone would please take their seats-"

There was some shuffling, but eventually the noise in the room quieted down enough to where my father could speak comfortably without having to yell. Mr. Scotts beamed from where he sat, at the front of the room, directly infront of my father, and right next to Mr. Harrington himself. I rolled my eyes at his cockiness. But unfortunately for me, he had good reason to be. It was looking a little hopeless from where I sat, and I could only pray that Elliot could think of something to stop all of this.

"Mr. Harrington, if we could begin with-"

"I object!!" We could hear Elliot's voice before he had even put one foot in the door. Every single eye in the place turned to the now open door, as two gentlemen pushed their way in, acting more like two rampant stagecoach horses than respectable gentlemen. A few gasps came from here and there, and I could see Elliot flustered, and the second gentlemen being a bit more sheepish at such an entrance. 

I recognized Elliot instantly, if not for his voice, his ruffled cap and dirty boots were enough of a dead give away. But the other gentleman took me a second to register.

"Hodges?" I questioned, an eyebrow shooting up. Sure enough, it was the clergyman himself, cloak and all. Those two paired together was the very last thing I ever expected. I had no idea what the two had in mind.

Mr. Scott shot up, A sneer placed upon his undaunted face. "Oh, so now the town liar is coming to place a claim? How delightful. I suppose you're going to be paying in I.O.Us? I'm sure the banker would be glad to hear that, as well as the rest of the town."

A few grumbles came from the crowd, especially from the Evanses, who made sure to complain loudly, to make up for the few of us who weren't saying anything.

"I'm not here to make a claim, Nathaniel." Elliot nearly spit the words out, full of disgust. "I came here to prevent you from making one. This town deserves the truth." Elliot looked around, scanning the people as if looking for their trust. Our eyes met, and I gave a small encouraging smile. Elliot nodded, and pushed forward, marching up to the front of the room, with Hodges hot on his trail. Surprised, my father inched away from the pulpit, unsure what to do next. Elliot took it, hoping to take control of the situation.

"And you think they're going to believe a liar? Who's to say this isn't another scheme to rob the town Mr. Snyder?" Mr. Scotts scoffed, trying to discredit him. Elliot opened his mouth to retort, but Hodges cut him off, hoping to turn the crowd on their side.

"They may not believe a liar, but you might have no choice but to believe me." Hodges stepped out from behind Elliot, and this time, everyone really was shocked. To have a clergyman back up such a sketchy chracter such as Elliot was was a risk. He might have just lost his good name, not to mention his job. I held my breath, hoping the two of them knew what they were doing.

"This man who is trying to claim Harrington's estate is much worse of a liar then the one who stands before you."

"Thanks Hodges." Elliot muttered, rubbing his neck nervously.

Hodges pretended not to hear him, and went on. "Had he not fooled all of us, we would have run such a man out of our town by now, having him never to return. He's swindled Mr. Snyder here out of his money, claiming to be a business man when he was nothing but a scammer. He's taken an innocent man's money, and will take more, if we don't stop him."

Nathaniel gave a deep hearty laugh, even standing up and clapping. "Good acting, gentlemen. I think the theater may be just the place for you two. But if we could just get on with the auction now, and get rid of all this ridiculousness."

Whispering broke out, everyone not sure who to believe.

"But he's our clergyman-? Surely he can't lie?" Came from somewhere near the back.

"But Mr. Scotts has been nothing but a gentleman, we can't say the same for that Snyder fellow."

"Maybe we should kick the lot of them out of our town, forget about this whole thing."

I was dumbfounded, unsure what to do, but it seemed to be going downhill fast. People were getting restless, and commotion seemed to be breaking out everywhere.

Panic-striken, Elliot tried to gain hold of the situation once more. "Look, I may have lied to you and fooled you, and I apologize, profusely. I can't tell you how sorry I truely am. Especially you, Mr. Ainsworth, and your family." He looked to my father and my father gave a little gruff snort in acknowledgement. "But I didn't intentionally mean to hurt anyone. I only did this to pay off my debts and payback my father. And I'm sorry that people were hurt in the process. But if I can protect you from Mr. Scotts, then none of it will have been in vain. Sure, I might be just as penniless, but I'm glad I was here, if only to stop Mr. Scotts from succeeding with his schemes."

"And I would bet my title and my postion that Mr. Snyder is telling the truth." Hodges added. "I give my word as a clergyman."

The room grew silent, and I stood up, knowing it was now or never. "I for one believe Mr. Snyder." I stood up, catching the attention of the room just as Elliot and my eyes met again. He grinned, and I felt my smile growing in return. Maybe this plan would work afterall.

"Me too." Nelly stood up on her chair, and everyone laughed.

"I concur." Another stood up, and another, until the majority of the room was on their feet. But that was all we needed.

My father took the pulpit once more. "I think it's safe to say that Mr. Scott won't be winning this auction."

A cheer broke out from those of us still standing; Elliot and Hodges laughed and grabbed each other in an embrace, caught up in all the emotion of the auction. At once, the two seemed to realize what was happening and immediately dropped their hands, and moved away from each other. Elliot cleared his throat as Hodges pretended to straighten out his cloak. I laughed soundlessly, putting my hand to my lips to hide from the two what I had just witnessed.

 "Still, I'm sorry Mr. Harrington to have taken up your time, and for such a turn out as this. Looks like we are back at square one, with the estate with no heir, and no buyer." My father dropped his smile, as Mr. Harrington stood up, holding onto his cane for support.

"Now hold on just a second." He carefully made his way up to the stage, taking his dear time as his worn body would allow. He sure knew how to build up the anticipation, I even felt myself begin to will him to hurry. "I'm not about to give up my retirement and force my wife to stay here just because there was no buyer. There has to be another solution to suit everyone."

"I'm sorry, but with no prospects, it would be a while until another suitable buyer came around, and that could take months, years even." My father frowned, trying to explain the situation.

Mr. Harrington looked around, rubbing his chin thoughtfully. "What about him?" He pointed to Elliot, who visibly started.

"Me?" He asked incredulously.

"Yes, you. You've proven to be honest and trustworthy enough, haven't you? I'd say, by any account, you're more honest and open than half the people in this room." He got a few chuckles from that joke, and a very loud and indignant snort from Mr. Evans, but he continued anyways. "How'd you like to take care of an estate for me? You'd only have to keep up the grounds and the building work, and who knows, maybe you could even work up to buying the place for yourself?" He winked at Elliot, who looked like he was going to pop. I laughed at his eagerness. He looked like a child on Christmas.

He moved over and took Mr. Harrington's arm, pumping it up and down rapidly. "Thank you sir! I won't let you down, I promise!"

"Case closed!" My father hit his gavel down on the pulpit, and people began to let the room clear, chattering away as the room grew emptier and emptier. I chuckled to myself. No doubt this auction alone would give the town something to talk about for months on end, not to mention Mr. Scotts true reveal, and Elliot's tending to Mr. Harrington's estate.

I gasped as I realized the business left unattended to. "Mr. Scotts!" I moved to the stage, looking from my father to Elliot to Hodges and back again. "We're letting him get away free! Shouldn't we have put him behind bars?"

"In all the commotion we let them get away. No good trying to go after him, he'll be half way to India by now." My father shook his head.

"For his sake, I hope your right." Elliot clenched his fists, as I gently put my hand on his shoulder to remind him it was out of his control. He relaxed under my touch and came back to the present.

"Actually, he won't be travelling alone." Hodges corrected. "I saw Mr. Scotts and Miss Charlotte Evans taking off at the first sign that the auction wasn't his to win. Who knows where the two of them will be headed to."

I opened my mouth to comment but was cut off.

"Mr. Hodges, I just wanted to commend you on such a specticle as that." We all turned at the interruption, and who else but Mr. Murray walked up, one hand placed in his coat pocket, the other around a gold embroided cane, that he was never seen without. "Takes quite amount of courage to face a crowd such as that."

I had to nudge Hodges into speaking; he was so stunned, his fear had seemed to have frozen himself to the spot. "T-t-thank you sir." He beamed.

"Mind if I have a word with you? Privately?" He motioned Hodges over, who stumbled over himself until he finally found his way off the stage and over to Mr. Murray.

"Well, Mr. Samuelson-er whatever your name is nowadays, you're future seems a bit more secure. I wish you best of luck." My father thrust out his hand, hoping to show Elliot he had forgiven him, but more importantly, to put this all behind us.

I thought about that. Could it be that easy? Just a shake of a hand and this is all in the past, never to be brought up or remembered again? Just let Elliot walk out of our life once and for all? Somehow, I knew my heart wouldn't let me do that.

Elliot looked from me to my father's outstretched hand, unsure how to handle it.Finally he looked my father straight in the eyes and said, "I thank you for the condolences Mr. Ainsworth, but I'm afraid I cannot accept them."

"Whaa-?" My father stated dumbfound, his hand falling to his side.

"You have helped me more than you will ever realize. Your whole family has, actually." His gaze lifted to mine, and I blushed, but gave a small smile. "And I have to pay you back in someway. I'm not going anywhere Mr. Ainsworth. You can gurantee that."

My father mumbled something under his breath, something along the lines of, "I guess this is what I deserve, asking you to marry my daughter."

And I laughed, putting an arm around my father tenderly.

"Nora!!!" Hodges laughed, running breathlessly back on the stage. "Mr. Murry just gave me his utmost consent on courting his daughter."

I laughed and hugged Hodges. "Oh, I knew he would!"

"He said anyone gutsy enough to put their whole career on the line for a slim chance of a man,"

A "Hey!" came from an indignant Elliot.

 "Would be a worthy candidate for Abigale. He said whatever I lack in financing, I'd make up for in compassion." Hodges was just glowing, and I beamed at him.

"You two will be perfect for each other. Now go find her and tell her the good news." I swat his hand, pushing him on his way.

He laughed and waved a quick goodbye before taking off, his excitement hardly containable.

Maybe there was such thing as a happy ending for all. I thought, looking to Elliot, who smiled fondly at me. And maybe things would work out afterall.

*

"Now Nora, I cannot be responsible for any splashes... Intentional or no." Elliot gave a devilish grin and I laughed. He sure had a impish streak in him, and I was finding out that I really liked it. It kept things.. interesting.

It had been serveral weeks since the auction, and Elliot had been in and out of our house, mostly for my father's sake, but had spent much of his time trying to settle in his new house. Today he was officially moved in, and to celebrate, he had taken me back to the waterfall and the creek. I wasn't exactly sure where we stood, or where our future was headed, but it felt right to be sitting next to him here, with both of us taking off our shoes and getting ready to step into the creek.

"I think you sir, are issuing a challenge." I grinned.

"Me? I would never- but if you insist..." Elliot stood up, ready to step into the creek. I rushed past him, beating him to it, and began splashing him.

The war continued, and we were both breathless from laughing in no time. Just as I stopped for a break, Elliot caught me off guard, hugging me from behind.

"Nora, I'm going to make it up to your father." He said, suddenly somber.

"I know." I gave a small smile, looking up at him. The hug was unexpected, but not unwelcomed. I had missed being in his arms, and just having him there reassured me that the world wasn't half as bad as it seemed. I turned my body so I could hug him back and he gave a small frown.

"No really, Nora. I'm already working on it. Soon enough, he's never going to have to work another day in his life."

"Oh Elliot!" I put a hand to my mouth. Knowing Elliot, he was going to come through; his weren't words anymore. It was a fullfledged promise. I stood on my tiptoes to give him a kiss on the cheek. His frown instantly turned into a huge grin. "Thank you." I smiled.

Still grinning, he released me out of his hug and took my hand in his. "Still, there's one more matter to take care of."  He brought our clasped hands up to his mouth, kissing the back of mine tenderly. "There's a few people I'd like you to meet. Granted we're not on the best of terms-"

"I'd love to." My grin grew until it matched his, and he laughed.

"Nora, there are good things in store for us, I can feel it." Elliot promised.

"Oh... I wouldn't be too sure of that, Mr. Samuelson." I said, nonchalantly, shrugging.

"And why's that?" He said, taken aback.

"Because... of this!" I laughed and splashed water on him, hitting him square in the face.

"Oh-ho-ho. Now you're in for it." Elliot wiped his face, before trying to get me back. I shrieked and ran, him following closely behind.

And at that moment, nothing could have been more perfect.

Chapter Forty - Elliot - A Race for Redemption

As usual, my feelings were see-sawing. Only a moment ago I had felt no greater than a discarded melon rine and now I was striding along like an aristocrat inspecting his gardens. And all because of Nora. It was always because of Nora. All it took was a smile, a grip of my arm, a dance, or a squeeze of my hand and I was a completely new man.

I laughed at myself. At my raw luck. To think she'd actually come to me this time, after everything. And it was only to comfort, not to knock me in the head with her suitcase as she ought.

"Well," I pulled my cap out of my pocket and onto my head with a grin, "I must've done something right."

Moving on along the dirt path that led from the hill, I turned my thoughts back to my seedling of a plan. The gears in my mind were turning madly, now that they had the proper fuel to get them working. Now that someone sincerely believed in me and refused to watch me give up. Now that I had something to fight for.

 The plan thus far actually came from a short conversation I'd had clear back at our engagement ball. Nathaniel had asked what I would do once my cover was blown and I'd basically told him I'd yank his cover off in my fall. Empty threats at the time, but now that such was really the case and now that he was trying to push himself onto someone like Nora I decided it was the only way to stop him.

And his intentions to rob Mr. Harrington remained as deep as ever. Though I knew mine had as well only a week ago, I wanted to do all that I could to change that. I didn't want the estate, I simply wanted to finally prove myself. The original goal of this whole charade, deep down. And if I could keep the slippery Mr. Scott from tearing apart any more families in the process, then great.

But...how? The now-pointless auction was this morning. I mean I could obviously charge into the square and jab and accusing finger at him, shouting crimes all the way, but they wouldn't believe me. Not a word that came out of my mouth. I needed some sort of ground or proof. Nathaniel had left none and my reputation had left even less. If I could only get someone who'd stand with me on it, like a witness. I wasn't about to ask Nora. She'd done more than enough as it was and I was still trying to protect her reputation.

Blowing out my breath, I looked up to see how far from town I was. Before me was the home I had come to learn belonged to the Hodges family. From there, town was a short walk away.

I didn't want to go back quite yet and would rather avoid... My eyes focused back on the house. A slow smile grew on my face as it dawned on me. If I wasn't going to get the assistance from the person who's help I least deserved, why not try for the person who's help I second-to-least deserved?

***

 

"Hodges!" I banged on the door, "Hodges! Hodges I--"

 

It swung open and I had to stop my urgent knocking before I hit the parisher in the nose.

"Oh," I grinned, "You're here!"

 

"Yes," he said slowly, his deep eyes full of suspicion and confusion, "I'm...normally here. To help my mother."

 

"Well I just didn't know if you'd be at the..." I realized I was already losing his interest and cleared my throat instead, leaning up against the doorframe, "Listen. I need your help with something."

 

Slam! Right on my fingertips.

 

"Ow!" I yelped, yanking them free. I laughed and knocked again with the other hand, "Wait! Bertram!"

No response. I composed myself and tried a different tactic by clearing my throat and taking on a more serious tone, "Mr. Clergyman, sir?"

Silence.

"...Lord of the Harvest?"

 

It opened a few exasperated inches, "What do you want, Elliot?"

 

I gave a self-concious chuckle, uneasy at his tone, "First off, I suppose I should apologize."

 

His frown told me that was obvious.

 

"I...well I didn't mean to hurt you or Nora. I was foolish and acted rashly. I had no idea of the concequences it would bring. Well, I suppose I had some idea, but nothing like this.  I will admit, no matter what image I put up, you hit the nail on the head with your sermon and I've been tripping over myself ever since."

 

I intended to end it there but a flood of emotion suddenly filled me, which was completely unplanned for and totally inconvenient. It was one thing to pour out my heart to Nora, the woman who possessed it. But to Hodges? Such wasn't the normal conversation topic between two men. Especially two men on the unspoken terms as we were.

 

Still, I suppose, dignity wise, I really had nothing else to lose.

 

"Heavens, you're a clergyman, Hodges," I muttered, "I...I need to set things right. My only problem is..." I sighed and shrugged my shoulders, "Everytime I try, I only make it worse. You were right; I've completely lost myself in this mess. I know you have every right to turn me down but..."

 

He sighed and stepped out, shutting the door behind him, "What do you need, Elliot?"

 

I gave a sad smile, "Now that I think about it, you won't be so willing once you hear."

"Well you got me outside."

 

True. It was indeed a milestone. I took a breath and began my whole backstory. My foolishness, Nathaniel's deceptions, the present state of my family. If I thought I was opening up before, now was even worse. By the end of it, I was completely vulnerable to this man I'd first taken to be less imposing. He knew my history, my doubts, my enemies. And he had every reason for revenge against me. I had torn him from his closest friend only to hurt her when she was no longer in his protection.

 

And his first response: "Nathaniel needs to be stopped."

 

I was tempted to clean out my ears; Bertram Hodges was agreeing with me? I thought I'd have to put the same amount into convincing him of my plan as I had in convincing him of me.

 

"When's the auction?" I asked.

"In a quater of an hour I think."
I frowned and reached for the pocket watch that was no longer there, "Well that doesn't give us much time at all. Do you have a stagecoach?"
"No," he shook his head, "We sold ours awhile back. We should be able to make it on foot though. What's your big plan?"
"I'm going to reveal Mr. Scott for who he really is," I began, "And then, with no competition in the way, hopefully earn myself a part of the fortune. That's my only chance at it."
He sneered, "You sound real repentent."
I realized my mistake and shook my head, "It's not for me."

"Oh," he sounded a little surprised. He studied me over for a moment and the slightest hint of a smile appeared on his lips. Without another word, he opened the door again, said something to his mother, and grabbed his hat before stepping back out.

I smiled with relief and we hurried down the walkway to the corner of his street.
"You know they're not going to believe you," he pointed out as we waited for a chance to cross.
That long-lost smirk somehow found its way back to my face, "That's where you come in."

He shook his head and we both crossed the busy street onto the next walkway. From there we kept up a rather quick pace as we zigzagged through the crowds. That alone drew attention, to say nothing of the fact that the town's newest parisher was walking shoulder to shoulder with the town's newest criminal. This was why I'd been hoping for a stagecoach.

"So," I took my eyes off a gawking group of gossiping women and looked back down at this stalwart man, "You know why I'm doing this. I'd like to know why you are."
"Believe me," he smirked, "If I didn't despise you a pinch less than Nathaniel Scott, I wouldn't be."

I laughed and continued to follow him. He took out his pocket watch--an older type with the face slightly cracked--and frowned. Turning to me, he cocked an eyebrow.

"How experienced of a runner are you, Mr. Snyder?"

 

Chapter Thirty-Nine - Nora - A sprout of Hope

The carriage came to a complete stop, and I stuck my head out the window. Same old town, same old landscape. Even though I feared the worst, it seemed nothing had changed, well visibly. That was a good sign; at least no one was running Elliot out of town-yet.

I paid the horseman and took my bags, feeling unsure what to expect, or where to go. Sure, I could go to my family, but I'd only get the lecture of how right I was to walk away from Elliot when I had the chance, and I certainly didn't want to hear that.

I knew I wanted to find Elliot, if only for an explanation, only I had no clue where he would be. I thought for a fleeting moment to go and find Charles, maybe ask him where Elliot might be, but that meant risking running into his family, which could get a little complicated.

I tried to think of friends Elliot could have gone to, but none came to mind. Frowning, I realized Elliot was about as friendless and desperate as a man got. Unfortuately, my new found sympathy for him helped me in no way in the search to find him.

Sighing, I clutched my suitcases even closer to me as I began my walk into town. No doubt today was going to be a long day.

*

"I don't know, the lazy lout. I fink I mig't of sawn 'im 'eaded that way." The gruff shop owner pointed, interestingly enough towards my house, causing me to perk my eyebrow in surprise.

"Are you sure it was him?" I asked, keeping my voice down to a conspiratoral whisper.

"Of course it was 'im! He's all this town 'as been talking about the last few days!" The man growled, getting a little defensive I questioned his testimony.

"Well thank you." I gave a small curtsey and headed the way he pointed, only hoping this lead wasn't as false as the rest.

I had no idea what to do, or why I was so intent on finding Elliot. Perhaps it was something about his letter. Certainly he hadn't seemed to earn my forgiveness yet, although being hated by everyone in town was somewhat of a start. And yet, here I was, searching half the town over in hopes of finding the man.

Just as I begun to mutter to myself how utterly hopeless all of this was, I heard a russling to my left, and I turned my head on impulse. And there he was, frozen in his seat underneath the tree Hodges' and I called our own. He looked utterly horrified, and in such a state of disarray, I was almost unsure whether to approach him as I had in mind, or keep on walking, if only for the sake of his mental health. 

It took me no more than a second to realize I had to talk to him, and so I set my suitcases down and walked over to him, my hands already on my hips, as I felt a lecture coming on.

"I'm sorry Nora. I can't tell you how sorry I am. I'm just-"

"Sorry, I know." I surpressed the lecture, knowing it would do more harm then help. Instead, I took a seat next to him, as his inqusitive face spoke volumes about his wonder and amazement. "The letter kind of took care of that."

"Oh." And for the first time in Elliot's life, he had nothing more to say. I would have laughed had the conditions been right. Unfortunately, we were both in difficult positions, and the time for joking was past.

"I came looking for you, but not to tell you off, or to tell you how angry and betrayed I feel or felt. I came to ask how you are. How you're dealing with all of this." I looked him over, realizing he wasn't doing to good without him even having to answer.

"Well on the one hand, the whole town hates my guts. And on the other, I've ruined all chances of ever cleaning my name financially. And that's not even touching on the subject of how I came close to soiling your name and reputation. Odds aren't in my favor, and the outcome isn't looking to grand from where I'm sitting." He slouched, defeated and overwhelmed.

"Elliot, you can't give up that easily." I frowned, wondering why it was that I felt the urgency to comfort him. Perhaps it was that I was his one true friend right now, and he had no one else to turn to. "The Elliot I was engaged to wasn't a quiter, and most certainly didn't hide from his problems either. He would have found another way, taken action to fix everything."

Elliot shook his head, not even daring to look in my eyes. "Don't you see Nora? That's the problem. I'm not that Elliot. That Elliot was a sham, nothing but charm and fancy clothing. It was all a lie."

I paused, thinking hard. "What if that's not true? What if that Elliot and the Elliot sitting in front of me are the same person? They both look the same, sound the same, and who's to say they don't act the same?" Without thinking, I moved my hand until it was over his, and I squeezed his hand, hoping to give him some kind of encouragement. 

I could tell the gears in his head were turning, trying to figure something out, or maybe just processing what I said. Suddenly, he lept up, and I stood up too, in alarm.

"I'm going to make everything right Nora, just you wait and see." He gave me no time to move, but leaned in and kissed me softly on my cheek, before taking off towards the parsonage "You won't be sorry you said those things. I'm going to prove you right!" He yelled, excitement laced through his words. He gave a final wave before he took off in a run, cap and all.

This time I did laugh out loud, letting a smile of amusement light my face. I knew Elliot would have something up his sleeve, and it would only be a matter of time until I found out what.

Chapter Thirty-Eight - Elliot - Taken

The suitcase hit me square in the chest, knocking me back. I grabbed it just as it fell open, littering the cobblestone with its contents.
"And stay out!" the hotel manager growled, slamming the door to finalize his point.

Several noticed the outburst but I paid them no mind, simply kneeling to gather all the clothing up.

That could've gone smoother. I should've followed my instincts and left yesterday but I'd been too busy trying to make it through all the confusion in order to mail Nora's letter; which, because of my lack of education, I'd felt totally inadequate in writing. My spelling was good, but my handwriting wasn't especially fine and I wrote how I spoke. There was nothing formal about it and it made me feel terribly self-concious, but at least, after a chaotic day, it had been sent. I had actually been glad that the rumors hadn't reached the hotel manager until this morning, allowing me a bed for one more night.

"I own the best quality hotel for miles around!" he'd hollered this morning, my things already packed and on the front desk. It bothered me that he'd gone through my belongings while I was busy, but my opinnion had no place for the moment.
"And I'll not have anyone soiling my reputation. I will not be taken advantage of!" he slowly began to back me towards the door, "So I want you to leave, Mr. Snyder, and Heaven help if I ever discover  you even within a block of my hotel!"


I shook my head with a smirk and stood up again, headed for Charles' house. On the bright side, I'd would no longer have to the pay the full amount for five months; only three.

Charles' maid let me in, which was unusual. At this point though, I simply accepted the fact that I'd been welcomed and waited for her to fetch my cousin. When he entered the parlor I noticed a tired look behind his usual smile.

"Have a seat, Elliot."

I shook my head, "I shouldn't be long. I only came to return this." I handed over the suitcase and he accepted it, trying to gauge the full meaning behind my actions.

"I put the rest of the money you lent me inside. I'm really sorry Charles. I really am. I've ruined everything."

"Not everything," he retorted.
I sneered, "You're a saintly soul, dear cousin, but please. List one thing that I haven't completely destroyed."

"Well...actually I believe I may be one of those," he muttered, "People have stopped by offering their sympathies to Mrs. Lettington and I that we were so misused by our very own blood relative. Now I know I didn't spread such news."

I shrugged, "You're a good citizen. People would generally assume you had nothing to do with such falsehoods. "

"Why did you do it?" he rode over me me, "After all, the scheme had originally been mine. It was I that convinced you to come here in the first place. You didn't need to go out of your way to protect us."

"Honestly, Charles," I sneered, "I owe you far too much not to.  And I will repay it in full as soon as I can."

He studied me for a moment and then smiled.
"You've changed Elliot. For the better. I hope you're family realizes that as well."

 Finally, he stepped towards me and offered a handshake. I took it and was surprised when he yanked me into an embrace instead, suitcase and all.

"I wish you luck upon you're return home."

That wasn't yet my decision but I only smiled and pulled away, "Thank you."

***

Everyone's eyes trailed me as walked down the familiar streets. Their smiles and greetings were gone now, replaced with glares and whispers. I simply kept my hands in my trouser pockets and moved on, offering a half-smile to the few who accidentally met my gaze although they would only turn away.

My abilities were limited as to what I could about the situation. All my costumes were with Charles now so I couldn't hide behind them. I was left with the clothes I had worn upon my arrival: a white shirt with a brown vest, trousers, a pair of scuffed boots with a hole in the heel of one and in the toe of the other, and a small cap that I kept crumpled in my hand as there was no use for it now.

"Go back to where you belong, Snyder," a passerby angrily muttered. I chose to ignore him and moved on.
"Poor Miss Ainsworth," I heard another moan, "The dear must be shamefully embarressed."
Someone next to them laughed, "And to think the Grantsville Estate could've gone to him. What a good scheme that would have been!"

I just kept walking,  no apparent destination in mind only a desire for some peace and quiet. And I eventually found it atop a hill with an invigorating view and a shady tree. A little winded from the climb and exhausted from everything else, I sunk down into the grass beneath it and rested my head back on the trunk.

 Three words. Three words had triggered this downward spiral my life had taken. The one's I'd spoken in Mr. Ainsworth's office: Yes. Of. Course. 

Absolutely Ridiculous. You'd think with all the planning and scheming and detail work that went into it, my downfall would consist of something much more intricate. Especially with how confident I had started out.

 

Either way, I needed to decide what I was going to do now. My family had, for the most part, given up on me and left. Though I wasn't officially disowned, I certainly wasn't welcomed. Not unless I had something to offer, which I didn't. Other than an extra pair of hands to pay off the debt and a pair of knees to beg upon of course, but I wanted something more before I returned. Something that could really assist them. And I refused to stay here with Charles until then; it would undo all my efforts in protecting him.

 

So what, then? Elliot Samuelson had left and robbed Elliot Snyder of any place in the world. Not with his family, not here, and certainly not with Nora Ainsworth. Nathaniel Scotts would again snatch up another victory from me with the estate. Not that I cared anymore. Of course the fortune was exactly what I was in the greatest need of at the moment, but I had no honorable reason to be taking it. I had little incentive on the matter anyways as my family wouldn't be impressed with stolen money. And even if there was a reason, I lacked the ambition. Or perhaps not the ambition, but the purpose. There was nothing about the Gransville Estate that I cared enough about to march back into town past all the naysayers.

I suddenly grew weary of the headache and leaned foward with a sigh, looking out across the sprawling town below. My eyes fell on the steeple of the church and I gave a mirthless chuckle.

 

Bertram Hodges was a regular genius. Just as he had said, this whole masquerade had caused me to lose myself. Maybe not my "soul" persay, but something close to it. My body seemed to have only one occupant now: emptiness. I was a slave to my own misdoings. And just as he'd prophesied, I had been taken in the devices I had imagined.

Chapter Thirty-Seven - Nora - Letters

"Not even a week here and you've already gotten a letter. My Nora, quite the social bug, aren't we?" My Aunt grinned and handed the letter over, not another word would be spoken on the matter. Unlike my sisters, my aunt knew not to pry, and left the letter alone.

We were breakfasting together, and I felt some sort of peace, well, temporary peace for the moment. My aunt had been wonderful, and so had London, with no heartache, no gossiping townsfolk, and most importantly, no Elliot.

But the letter brought me back to reality- my problems were still there, even if I couldn't see them. I read the sender and my heart dropped. Nathaniel Scott. Well, it could have been worse-Elliot for example, but I had been hoping for more of a break. Had it been the best scenerio, it would have been a letter from my father, or even better, Hodges, but unfortunately, it was going to be a polite acquaintance letter I would have to reply to.

Careful not to ruin the wax seal, I opened the letter, reading:

"Dear Miss Ainsworth,

Certain situations have arisen, of which I felt the need to aware you, as they do have direct affect on you.

The gentleman you have been aquainted with as a 'Mr. Samuelson', is in fact, not a gentleman at all, but a pauper, whose real name is Mr. Elliot Snyder.

However, you are not the only one who has been tricked by Mr. Snyder's scheming. All of the town was charmed and taken in by his false pretenses, and have only found out recently that he has lied to the whole of us, luckily, and in time too, before your father or the Grantsvillle Estate could fall into his undeserving hands.

Mr. Snyder's mask of deceit was only unvealed upon his family's arrival into town, as they all made known to us what this fellow was really made of.

He's a liar, a traitor, and worse of all, he has played with you and your father's feelings.

I could only hope in writing a letter of my condolence, you would be somewhat comforted, as I know this will be a hard time for you, as for all of us, who Mr. Snyder has hurt.

I hope you won't consider me too forward if I say the only pleasure I get is knowing you will be arriving home soon. I hope you realize that my arms will be free if you feel the need to look for comfort in them. I have always felt a strong inclination to you Miss Ainsworth, and feel you were the least deserving of Mr. Snyder's unworthy affections.

I will be ever looking forward to your reply.

Best Wishes,

Mr. Scotts"


I frowned, setting the letter down. Although I tried to direct them elsewhere, they fell upon Elliot, and how he must be feeling. And though I hated to admit it, my heart ached for him. He'd be alone, friendless, and no doubt, the most hated in town. Not undeserving, well, okay he didn't deserve all of it, and all because of his family. Clearly he didn't have the best relationship with them.

And Mr. Scotts... I frowned as I scanned the last paragraph again. I had no idea what he was thinking or what he expected of me, but whatever it was couldn't happen, even if my heart wasn't engaged elsewhere.

I sighed, making my aunt look up from her breakfast. She gave me a small smile. "Perhaps you would like to go for a walk in the garden this morning? Hmm?"

I grinned at her, she always knew what I needed. "Shall we?"

*

I untied my bonnet as I stepped into the drawing room. The walk had been good-amazing even, but it had to end, and that meant back to the task at hand, writing a letter back to Mr. Scotts. I didn't want to, but if it meant sooner rather than later, I'd sooner be over with it than have it looming over my head like a dark cloud.

Mustering up some kind of response, I spent no time writing out the letter, making the correct responses and adding just enough politeness without it being too formal.

When it came to responding to the dreaded last paragraph Mr. Scotts had written,-I cringed just thinking of it- I carefully debated my words, trying to figure out what I wanted to say. 

Finally, I came up with something;

"I thank you for your sympathies Mr. Scotts, and they do not go unnoticed. However, as of right now, I am not in a postion to accept any  attentions from anyone. You will have to agree with me, that because of the situation at hand, it would be suitable for both of us not to be associated in that way. Although your friendship is very valued and cherished."

Finally, what seemed like hours later, I finished, very satisfied with what I had written. Just as I addressed the envelope, sealed it, and then sent it off with one of my aunt's servants to be sent off, my aunt's doorman entered, another letter in hand.

"For you Miss." He handed it to me, as I sat, dumbfounded. Two letter's in one day? That was very unusual.

I studied the envelope. Where as Mr. Scott's letter had had golden lettering, this one had been scrawled in a hurry; the sender hadn't even taken the time to properly seal it.

Mr. Elliot Snyder the sender line read. My heartbeat quickened. I desperately felt like ripping it open, reading it as quickly as I could for any news from him, but my head got the better of me. I felt disgusted with myself. I should just throw the letter away. He didn't deserve any more of my time.

I flipped the letter over and over, debating what to do. Finally, my heart decided and I opened the letter, promising myself I would read it, but then quickly throw it away without another thought upon him.

"Dear Nora,

I know I don't deserve anything more from you. To be honest, I'll be a little surprised if you do actually read this, as I don't even deserve that from you. But you deserve something from me. Well, a lot of things from me, but an explanation would be a start.

As you probably suspected, this is not my first aquaintance with Mr. Scotts. I cannot say the time has been pleasurable, but nonetheless, you of all people deserve to know the truth.

Mr. Scott's isn't who he says he is. I know, that's quite a statement coming from the likes of me. But it's true Nora- you've got to believe me. He's a fraud, a schemer, a liar of all things.

He's the reason I haven't a penny to my name. You see, before you knew either of us, Mr. Scott and I had an understanding.

What happened is complicated, nevertheless, I'm sure if anyone would understand, it would be you.

See, my parents and I have never had a close relationship, to put it lightly. They've always seen me more of a burden than anything else and I was determined to prove them wrong the only way I knew how. That was, I was going to make enough money to establish myself in society.

I knew Nathaniel for a about a months time, as he was new in town, but he was obviously established and wanting for naught.  He had boasted of being a wealthy business man, even going out of his way to spend his money lavishly on the finer things. When he said he needed a partner in his business, well, I thought it was going to be all too easy. And it had been.

It took only a little persuasion on my part for Nathaniel to allow me into his partnership. Nathaniel showed me the figures, and it all looked right to me. I was quite antsy to get underway, and wanted to hurry it along. The only thing holding us back from making twice the amount of money we were worth, Nathaniel said, was that I had to invest half of the money for the business, and he would provide the rest.

I scavanged for money. I wanted to make it all on my own, but there was just no way. So I did the thing that was the last thing I wanted to do on earth. I asked my father for money.

They tried to warn me, all of them did, and I took no heed. It was my salvation, my proving to the world I could be something. When Nathaniel took my money and ran, nobody was surprised but myself. I was blindsided, fooled. I had taken the bait, just as Nathaniel expected I would.

My parents were furious- I had left them with nothing, lost all my father had worked for, and they wanted to disown me. I had to go, and so I turned to the only man I could-my cousin Charles.

The only good thing I learned from Nathaniel was how to bluff. So that's when Charles and I thought of this scheme. Through letters we talked it over, making it almost flawless. And just when I thought my parents were going to completely leave me to the streets, I left, without a trace, telling noone where I was going.

It was going smoothly, right up until Mr. Scotts and I met again. Neither of us had planned for that.

I only tell you this in hopes you are weary of whatever Nathaniel is planning. I can only imagine what schemes he has in mind for your family.

I am truly sorry for any pain I have caused you Nora. I could utter a thousand apologies and it still wouldn't be enough.

Sorry in all regards,

Elliot"

The letter fell from my hands as my hands flew instead to my mouth. It was all too much to process. But one thing was certain- I would have to go back. There was no running away from my problems; it was time I faced them head on.

Chapter Thirty-Six - Elliot - Ruined

“Sorry, Elliot. Nora left to visit a relative this morning.”

“Oh. Well thank you, sir. I’ll just…” I half-way tipped my hat and shifted my eyes, unable to meet his gaze, “I’ll just try later then.”

“I’m afraid that won’t be necessary, Mr. Samuelson,” he said, almost as uncomfortable as I was, “I’m not sure what you did to Nora but she seemed adamantly against this marriage. I’ve pushed her far enough, as her father, and I’ve decided my loyalties lie with her first. Thank you for your time and consideration.”

So she had broken it off afterall. An official farewell. I was no longer welcomed as a son, just formally dismissed as a businessman. And it was no more than I deserved, especially since she already seemed to have protected my real identity.

“I regret that things didn’t go the way we planned,” I said, being truthful for once, “But I respect your decision, Mr. Ainsworth. You are a very good man.”

He gave me a smile and then shut the door.



I’d have to try explaining it to her in a letter. Of course, there was the chance she’d dispose of it the moment she saw my name on the envelope but it was worth a try. Even if nothing happened between us after this, I wanted her to know the truth.

"Good afternoon, Mr. Samuelson."

I stopped and looked up at the sound of Nathaniel's voice, unable to summon my usual grin
"Good afternoon."

"Recovered from the late ball?" Charolette asked. I hadn't noticed her there until she stepped around Nathaniel, a knowing laugh in her eyes. I finally managed a tight smile and nodded.
"Yes, thank you for your concern."

We fell silent after that. I wanted to just push through the two and move on my way but, according to the crowd sprawling around us, such a motion would be considered suspicious and impolite.
"Charolette, my dear," Nathaniel finally spoke up, "You go on ahead and finish your errands. I'm afraid I'll have to catch up with you in a moment; I need to talk with Mr. Samuelson about some business matters. I shall meet you back at the square."

He lifted her hand to his lips and gracefully kissed the back of it. She smiled and, with an unusual willingness, left to do just that.

My eyes narrowed as I watched this man. What had I ever found so intriguing about him as to fall for his deceptions?

"I see that businessmen aren't the only victims to your scams."
He looked over at me, a confused smile on his face, "What can you mean, Elliot?"
"I don't know," I smirked, "Why don't you ask Minerva? Or was it Nora? Perhaps Charolette?"
A shrug, "My father always said that a man does what he can afford to, Mr. Samuelson. A lesson I'm sure you've learned by now."
"Then you are living far beneath your privliges, Mr. Scott," I thought aloud, frustration and helplessness building up inside me. Here he was, a man with real means. A man who was adored by the Ainsworths and had the general approval of Nora. He didn't annoy her or bother her or hurt her and she liked him. And yet he was wasting it all! Taking her for granted, now that she was gone, and replacing her presence with a woman who was half her intelligence. Half her goodness.
"And suddenly you're an expert?" he smirked, "Oh. And by the way, your dear cousin had some visitors arrive several minutes ago. They seemed most anxious too see you."
He motioned further down the street towards Charles house where a large stagecoach was parked. A rather familiar large stagecoach.
"No," I muttered, the color draining from my face.
He chuckled and tipped his hat, "Nice seeing you, Mr. Snyder."


I raced up to Charles’ door. It was all I could do to knock casually instead of hammering it in. There was a muffled conversation from inside and then the sound of footsteps. To my great relief, it was Charles who answered to door. To his great relief, it was me who had arrived.

“Elliot,” he muttered with a nervous smile, glancing back over his shoulder, “Just the person we’ve been wanting to see.”

“Who’s we?” I quietly demanded, afraid that I already knew.

“Your family was in town and decided to pay a visit,” he smiled tersly, “Any clues as to why?”

I groaned.
“Did you send them the letter?”

“Why would I send them a letter?” I demanded, then, realizing the full meaning of the question, my eyes widened, “What letter?”

He shrugged, “That’s how they discovered you. Someone sent them a friendly postage inviting them to my house.”

I scowled. “Nathaniel.”

If anyone here knew my family’s address, it was him. He must’ve sent it back when, with the banker on my side, it seemed I had the upper hand. It was no wonder he had known of their arrival.

“What?” he searched my face for a greater explanation.

“Charles, dear,” his wife called from inside, “Who is it?”

We were both thrown into a sudden panic.

“Forget the letter,” Charles shook his head, “We’re…we’re just going to have to play this the best we can. If you can get them in on our scheme your reputation could still be safe.”

I sighed. Suddenly I didn't want my reputation. I needed it, but I didn't want it. I was tired of Mr. Samuelson and his lies. It wasn't me. At least, the me I had discovered while I was here. Strange how acting like someone else had helped me to discover who I really was. And pulling an estate out from under a well-meaning and generous man suddenly didn't seem fit that. Or at least, I didn't want it to.

Either way, I followed Charles inside. We walked into his parlor and I was surprised to see everyone there. Not just my parents and my kid sister Margaret. But my eldest sister Agnes, her husband, and my older brother Fredrick Jr. 

Everyone bowed politely, but that didn't hide the complete and utter contempt in their eyes. Before ,I might've cowered or bristled at this, but today it only made me feel regret.  
"Very hospitable for your cousin to let you stay in his home," my mother glowered, "I dare say you wouldn't have managed yourself otherwise."
"It was," I nodded, unsure what else to say. The last time I'd been the presence of these people we'd been in a heated argument. One that ended with my brother walking out, my mother crying, and my father numbly picking up the paper. And it had been me that had caused it all, discovering that Nathaniel had run off with all the money I had invested in him. The exact concequence my family had warned me about.
"So how have you been these past months?" my father asked.
"Fine, thank you."
"What have you been doing?" Fredrick interrogated, furrowing his brows and looking down his nose at me, as he always did.
"I'm...," I sighed, realizing how unrealistic it would sound to them, "I'm about to inherit the Gransville Estate."

They looked as though I had summoned lightning from the Heavens and, for a moment, I thought I might actually have them convinced. Until Margaret spoke up.
"You?" she snorted, "I supposed that would explain the monkey suit."
As usual, she wasn't very disciplined for one of fifteen. I supposed my parents had been too busy trying to discipline me lately.  Either way, her comment seemed to give everyone else permission to doubt as well.
"Enough of this, Elliot," my mother stepped towards the door, "You're coming back home."
"Um," Charles finally spoke up, trying his best to provide me some assistance, "I'm sorry, Mrs. Snyder, but I'm afraid he can't leave."
My father looked over at him wearily, "Mr. Lettington, surely you wouldn't keep our own son from us."
"Well you see," he gulped as their glares shifted in his direction, "Elliot is...Elliot's engaged."
I shot him a look as my mother's face turned scarlet.
"Engaged?!" she stomped up to me.
"No!" I held up my gloved hands innocently, "No. I'm not engaged."
Charles looked at me questioningly and I motioned that I'd explain later.
"Well I should hope not!" she huffed.
Margaret giggled, "She'd truly have to desperate. Or daft to want you for a husband."
"Come Elliot," my father put a firm hand on my shoulder and began pushing me towards the door. I undecidedly let him, trying to sort out where I stood. Naive Agnes didn't help.

"All will be well," she smiled, hanging on the arm of my rich brother-in-law, "You can come home and help pay off the debt. Father has been working ever so hard since you left. And I doubt anyone will miss you here."

The last line was really one I didn't need to be reminded of.  It was only a matter of time before it came true so was it really worth staying? If I left now then Charles would be safe. He could easily tell everyone that I had an unexpected family emergency and had to return home, regretfully falling out of the competition for the estate. I could go back to life as it had been before.

We reached the door to the porch and Charles followed behind helplessly, waiting for me to make a move.
"Sorry our stay has been so short," my mother said,"But Fredrick here must get back to his business. Thank you for your hospitality and for helping us locate our son."

But I didn't want life like it had been before. With my wealthy siblings always flaunting themselves before me. With my parents constantly unsatisfied with my decisions. I had only tried to get rich quickly, as my sister did when she married and my brother did when he took an advanteous business opportunity. Mr. Scott's scam hadn't proved so successful.

This was my only chance at trying to prove myself. Even if I was only proving it to myself. I realized the last place I wanted to be was back at square one. And if they were leaving, then the odds would be back in my sorry favor. And besides that, I still had a letter to write.

"I'm sorry," I pulled away once we approached the stagecoach, "I can't return with you."

My mother sighed, "Elliot, you're being ridiculous."
"No, mother, you just need to give me a chance. The same way you gave Fredrick one. It's the same thing."
"No, it is not," she spoke rather forcefully, her voice only increasing in volume as she continued, "It is not the same thing, son, and you know that. His was an honest endeavor. Your's is no more noble than that of a thief's. Estates aren't handed over to us farmers! And I don't care who these people think you are, you are getting in that carriage and we are driving back home! You've dishonored the Snyder name enough as it is!"

Those bustling on the street around us slowed and stared. At first their attention was on my mother, who was speaking rather loudly for a lady. But after her speech, some stopped all together and every gossiper's gaze turned to me.

Nora - Chapter Thirty-Five - A Change of Scenes

"The engagement is off." The words tumbled out of my mouth, seemingly almost, as if on their own. No, I wanted them out, that was sure, and yet, a part of my ached at the sound of them, rolling off my tounge with finality.

"Wha-? But why? And how? Nora-" My father blubbered, utterly shocked. "You can't, surely you can't with the wedding looming so near-"

I cut him off, taking a deep breath to keep my composure. "Father, I have tried. I tried for you, I tried for the sake of mother, and our family name, but I can't, and nothing you say or do will make me any more inclined to marry that man."

Both Hettie and Minevera's eyes grew wider than their breakfast plates, shocked at such news so early in the morning. I may have ruined breakfast for everybody, but now I had finally spoken my mind, and the restless night of before had been worth it; I finally had come to a conclusion for all this maddening business.

"Nora, you two were getting along so well last night. Everyone even said so, and to give up a man like that for something so petty, and soiling our family name, to create such scandal-" Minevera harshly stated, looking me over with discontent.

"I can assure you, had it been something petty, I would not be standing before you as I am. But can you find it in you to think of my feelings in the matter? Of my heart and what it wants?" I trembled, so close to the edge of tears that I was afraid they would spill over. Yet I wasn't even sure what my heart wanted. Only to get away from here, I was sure.

My father could tell I was upset, and he stood up from his place at the table, stepping towards me.

"I'm sorry Nora-"

"You have to trust in me, Father. This is the only solution. Please, try and understand." I took his hands in my own, and he nodded, slowly, but nodded all the same.

"Does this mean Mr. Samuelson can't come over anymore?" Nelly scrunched her face up, trying to understand.

"Yes, love. You won't be seeing him anytime soon." I felt a few tears escape, and I hurried and wiped them away. Everything was slipping beneath me, I felt. But I hardly had any control.

*

"Are you sure this is what you want to do?" My father asked, not for the 19th time. I knew it was only through biting his tounge that I was getting away with this. Trusting me on this issue was probably the hardest thing he'd ever done. For once in his life, he wasn't the one in charge. But he wanted my happiness, and I knew he put that before any scandal that would come.

"I must." I stepped into the carriage, my body sagging underneath my burdens, both my physical bags, and my emotional ones as well. "I have to leave, just until all the gossip dies down, but I'll be back as quickly as I can. I trust you can last without me until then." I grimaced, my sober joke not lightening the mood.

My mind turned to the man whom all the gossip would be about. For an instance, I felt sympathy. Sure, I could run away, but he would take the brunt of it. Suddenly, my sympathy melted away. No, he was too "rich" and well-liked to have anyone hate him, at least, not if they didn't know the truth. No, surely most of the gossip would be about how I was dumb enough to turn down the most sought-after bachleor in the county.

"Your Aunt Jane will take good care of you, I have no doubt of that." My father shut the carriage door and held my hand through the small window. "Nora, I'm- I'm truly sorry, for all of this."

I squeezed his hand, trying to show him my forgiveness. "Father, you were just looking out for me, I know."

"If you're mother were here, she wouldn't have allowed me to put you in the situation. She was always better than I at looking after you girls." He sighed, looking away, at some distant memory. "I'm sorry I failed you Nora."

I gave a small smile, hoping my father would understand. "You did what you could, what you thought was the right thing."

The driver signaled he was ready to leave, and my father stepped back. "Good bye Nora."

"Goodbye Nora!" Nelly yelled from the porch, making her little rag doll wave with her limp hand.

I waved back as the carriage began to take off. Neither Hettie or Minevera waved, only shook their heads before heading back inside.

Not that it mattered. I was on my way to London, and away from any troubles that would stay here.