Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

John was stressed.

Nothing unusual. For the past so many months, he was in torment. His scowl became as prominent a feature in his face just as his nose, eyes, and mouth. The progress of the mill was in question but nevertheless, Marlborough Mills was safe at present. No, it had nothing to do with the mill. It had to do with what he said to Miss Hale.

It was difficult to keep coming back to Crampton when he knew she was in love with another man. For days on end, the man's face tormented his inner being, left and right. Despite the darkness of the night, he had clearly seen his face as well as hers, embracing each other as if they were parting for life and never meeting again. That face was handsome, so much so that they looked like a couple made for each other.

Now as he was walking back to his mill house, his temper was clearly brimming. But not against Miss Hale or that rival man who held her affections. He was angry with himself. For letting his jealousy take hold of his conscience. It had been three full hours since he told, no, lied to her that his "foolish passions for her were over" and that he was "looking into the future". Just as he had uttered that, he dared not look back and had hurried upstairs- books in hand, anger in the face. But he knew that his words had hurt her. She was close to crying and kept standing there looking into the void. That much John knew.

He half-attentively attended the discussions at hand with Mr. Hale. Crampton was his only solace amidst his dreary mill house and his mill. Even now, he loved to come here but couldn't face her. He wished to turn back time and go back to the days before that hideous incident at Outwood station. But he cannot. He decided that he would be a friend to Mr. Hale. No matter what, he would come here
for his discussions with her father even if she would wish he didn't come.

While he walked, he cursed himself for speaking in such a manner to her. He had stooped her from speaking and let his mouth say what his heart didn't agree with. He expected her to retort. But unfortunately, she stood still, letting his words hurt her. She didn't speak a word in return. This response baffled John, for as much as he deeply regretted what he had said, he saw hurt and sorrow in her eyes, not humiliation.

He was still astonished to see the extent to which she had gone to protect that anonymous man, her lover. She had lied to the inspector of her whereabouts. John knew that she didn't have to do anything with Leonards' death. What burnt him was her attempt to safeguard the man by means of falsehood. A part of him wondered if she would do this had he been her lover. But then again, he will never put her in such a circumstance in the first place! That man, that horrible man, if he had any ounce of love similar to John's wouldn't have met Margaret at so late an hour. Every regard, every esteem he had for her started to crumble. He questioned himself if Miss Hale, his Margaret, was nothing but an illusion. He still couldn't find an answer.

His mind still somehow agreed to what he had said. She deserved that censure for behaving so improperly thus. Yet his heart, now burning with seething jealousy and love, disagreed. John understood that no matter how much true his love could be, it cannot be enough for the heavenly woman. And she was right to fall in love with that man. No, he cannot hurt her for not being his. He had to apologize to her. He should, as his heart ordered him to.

He realized he had reached his home and saw his mother waiting for him.

"Mother, I am quite late, I suppose. I am sorry. I was having a good discussion with Mr. Hale and neither of us realized that it had become quite late."

Mrs. Thornton disapproved, now more than before, of his visits to Crampton. The gossips of Miss Hale seen with another man late at night had still not diminished and made its rounds often. She feared that his son's name would be entangled in this mess as well. She had also expected that her son would somehow let his anger destroy whatever love he had for Miss Hale, after having seen her with another man. But she was inevitably wrong. His love and agony only grew. She knew he would never agree with her suggestion of discontinuing his visits to the Hales. This conversation had happened already. Yet tonight, she would try again.

"John, I do suppose that you have some responsibility in guarding your name against that conniving family! Well, at least from that girl. Is it not enough for you to have gained so much knowledge about Greek classics already? You have a mill to run and not a school."

"Mother, please. I am exhausted and I have already told you that I cannot stop my visits to Mr. Hale on any account. As for Miss Hale, don't worry. I told her that my feelings for her have come to an end."

Mrs. Thornton rejoiced inwardly for a moment. But when she pondered over his words, she was rather shocked. Her son, who had cared so much for Miss Hale, suddenly took back his affections. She cannot pretend to be unhappy and agreed that Miss Hale deserved to hear that from her son. Yet somehow, something deep in her mind was bothering her.

"You did?", Mrs. Thornton asked.

He nodded as he ate. It was then that she realized how exhausted he looked. No, his exhaustion was not physical. He was a stronger man than any she had ever seen. His exhaustion was due to his stress, his unrequited love, and disappointment from the one and only woman he ever loved. She told herself that it might be good for him. He needed to forget her. He had started to. She rejoiced again for claiming her son as her own once more.

"Then that is for the best, John. I am glad you are trying to forget that selfish lass. Indecent and too proud for nothing! Let her go behind that vagrant she met. I have no doubt she will never be loved by him the way you did."

"Mother, please. I regret my words. I told her something which I didn't mean at all! She deserves a man, no, a gentleman, and not a coarse tradesman like me. Let her be happy with the one she loves. I wish her all peace."

"And you aren't a gentleman? You are every inch a self-made individual, unlike those southern men who never work hard even for a day! But surely John, you can try to stop loving her? Enough of this! I have never seen you so devastated. You look as if you are stranded on an island all alone! You have me, the mill, your sister. As for a wife, you know very well how many wish to be married to you."

John was irritated. He never paid heed to matrimony before meeting Miss Hale. Now that she had become someone else's, he cannot bear to share his life with another woman. He shuddered at the thought.

"I will be happy to stay with you mother. All my life. You and I are more than enough for each other. I do not wish to have a wife, not anymore. It had always been her, and will be."

"John, it is indeed a blessing to marry someone you love and someone who loves you back. But not all marriages are based on love! You are the most eligible bachelor in Milton, a master. Your position demands a partner. Why, I even saw you warming up with Miss Latimer during Fanny's wedding. I highly approve of her."

That was enough to irk him. He almost threw the fork at his plate and scowled. Mrs. Thornton suddenly understood her mistake. She shouldn't have gone too far, especially now that he was just eating.

"Enough of all this! Miss Latimer, indeed! Where did you get that idea from? I wonder if people have started to think the same! I never spoke more than two words to her whenever we met. During Fanny's wedding, it was her who held my arm, not I who tried to gain her attention. And I never thought of her in that way, mother. Surely, you must know! I see her only as Fanny's friend and my banker's daughter. Nothing less, nothing more."

"Miss Latimer will be a good match. The business will be well secured if the Latimers become a part of our family. And John, I do believe you can start feeling for her after you get married…"

John said nothing but simply stared at her. His silence unnerved Mrs. Thornton and she understood that she was close to defeat. Another conversation gone wrong.

He drank a glass of water and finally stood up. Without saying anything in return, he made for the stairs. He climbed a few steps and stopped. He turned back and looked at her again. Mrs. Thornton felt a glimmer of hope rising inside her. But her son puffed it out with his words-

"Mother, do you really believe marrying Miss Latimer would make your son happy?"

After a few minutes, he continued- "Even if I had never met Margaret, do you think Miss Latimer would be meant for me? Marriage to her might secure my position and keep the mill safe. But is that all and only you care about?" He asked almost in a whisper.

Mrs. Thornton was silent. His words cut her heart.

He continued- "Do you really think me so shallow as to marry another woman to forget the one I love? Matrimony is not a one-day affair, mother, no, it's not like what Fanny thinks- excellent wedding gowns, a huge trousseau, breakfasts, gatherings, dance, and such sort. It's a bonding for life, mother. To share your body, soul, and home with a person who loves you and who you can love. I know that I am a mere tradesman but I will never be someone else's husband, now that my heart loves another."

He paused and let his words sink in. His mother kept looking at him. Her expression was something he cannot decipher- but it was not hurt, disappointment, or anger. No, it was more like understanding and coming to terms with the truth.

"As much as you want me to forget Margaret, you know very well that Miss Latimer is not the one for me. I do understand that marriages, especially those we know of, mostly happen for status and financial security. But I don't want to marry someone who sees being married to me as a position to uphold. No. I don't wish to be commodified thus, as just a mill master. I am like any other man, mother. I wish to have a wife for love and love alone. Someone who will be with me through thick and thin, not for wealth. If you really care for me, which I know you do, then please do not expect me to get attached to Miss Latimer or any other woman for that matter. I will remain a bachelor as I had always been. Good night, mother."

And with that, he hurried back upstairs, his books in hand. For the second time of the day, he didn't turn back. Yet, he knew what his mother must be feeling right now. He was sorry to make her feel sad, but he couldn't help.

***

Mrs. Thornton prepared for her bed after her nightly prayer rituals. She kept her rosary and bible by the nightstand and tried to sleep.

She thought about the day's events. Fanny had come for tea and as usual prattled about London, her wallpapers, and her designs to further turn her garish home more garish. How could her daughter turn so contrasting to her and her son, she wondered. In trying to keep Fanny away from their destitution, both mother and son became too overprotective, and that in turn, made her flighty, too ignorant, and materialistic.

Her mind wandered to John's question. No, it wasn't a question but a fact. Miss Latimer or any Milton-bred woman will be a good match for Mr. Thornton, the wealthy master of Marlborough Mills. But neither Miss Latimer nor those dozens of women will be good enough for John, the man who strived hard day and night ever since he was fourteen years old, to restore his family from the pit of poverty and disgrace. The John who went hungry for nights to ensure there was enough food at home for his mother and sister. Her son John who had to instantly give up his boyhood and turn into a man to settle his father's debts. No woman would ever understand the John she knew. They only saw him as Mr. Thornton of Marlborough Mills. That's all.

Suddenly, her mind flitted to one woman whom she loathed unlike any other. Miss Hale. As much as she hated that girl for rejecting her son, she saw herself in her. Her kindness, intelligence, empathy, as well as her pride, shrewd support for the destitute, unmaterialistic attitude. John's questions and expectations for a wife were so genuine and matched every bit of what Miss Hale was.

But she was in love with another man! When she had gone to counsel Miss Hale, she had humiliated her in return. It was her mother's wish to have her as a guiding figure to Margaret, now that her time on earth was coming to an end. She knew very well that Mrs. Hale's daughter was a woman of her own mind. Yet, she agreed because she did feel a tinge of pity for Miss Hale. She understood what it must be to be abandoned from one's home and come and live in the north. Even though she didn't show it, she was aware that it was Miss Hale who ran the house, prim and proper, and who tried to be a dutiful daughter to her parents, despite her own world falling apart. If she was like any other woman, she would have suggested Fanny become friends with her. But no, Margaret Hale was a different woman altogether. She wished Fanny to have been at least a little of what Miss Hale was, simple, kind, and not one to fall for extravagant pleasures in life. But her daughter was the complete opposite.

She closed her eyes to lure sleep. After a few moments, yet another incident sprang up in her mind. Nothing to do with Miss Hale, her son, or daughter. But an incident from her own marriage life which she counted as one of the most unforgettable times in life. She wondered what made her mind suddenly bring back the memory which she tried to repress.

When Hannah Thornton was basking in the glory of her newly married life, her husband George was equally in love with her. Hannah was ever since birth a controlled person who assured to never let her emotions override her. Her husband was the complete opposite. He was a fun person to be with, fiercely loyal, someone who was good in humor as well as intelligence. They attended several social gatherings and concerts together, which were enough for the entire town to know how much in love they both were. On one such occasion, at a ball party, Hannah Thornton, after having danced a great deal, went aside from the crowd to recompose herself. Her corset felt too tight and she struggled for breath. She wished to return back home, when all of a sudden, a man almost pounced upon her. Hannah almost went blank with fear and shame. She struggled to get out of the man's hold, who had been clearly too much drunk and out of control. Thankfully, no one was there or her honor would have been tarnished. She somehow pulled herself away from the man and ran as fast as she could. But no, she was seen by her mother-in-law.

Mother Thornton was very much the typical Milton woman who cared for honor and propriety before anything else. When she saw her daughter-in-law almost being in the arms of another man, she couldn't suppress her anger. She fumed and burst out at Hannah. Her husband unusually remained silent. Hannah kept her lips tight, neither denying her mother-in-law's insinuations nor agreeing. To be honest, it was not her mistake and she only cared for her husband's good opinion. Her husband's silence only pushed her to fright. But it was only after a while when he spoke. He calmly yet firmly asserted to his mother that he trusted his wife more than anyone else in the world. He assured both women that what happened was solely the heinous offense by the man, who tried to take liberties with someone else's wife. He said that he will look into the matter and told Hannah to not think about it anymore, and leave the matter to his hands, he who would make sure that odious man would be dealt with.

His unshakable faith in her was something Hannah relished more than anything else. Her time with her husband had been quite less, yet the life they lived was based on love. Unfortunately, the few years before his death pulled him into the habit of speculating and gambling, all done simply to give his wife and son a lavish life. How much ever Hannah warned and denied her husband's extravagant indulgences, his love for the family almost made him blind in his actions. Eventually, he pulled the trigger and chose death.

Mrs. Thornton thought if Miss Hale was indeed trustworthy as she had been. What if, just what if the man she had been with so late at night was anything but not her lover or intended? And more so, she knew that she had insulted her in the name of giving her counsel. She stood as proud and haughty that day in front of her. Now that she thought about it, she realized that miss Hale stood totally fearless and righteous, without a hint of remorse. She should have rather tried to communicate openly with her and ask who the man was with her at the station. Maybe, she would have confided. She had lost too much already. It was then that Mrs. Thornton decided to do something for the girl. But first, she would apologize to her even if it hurt her pride.

Before giving in to sleep, she prayed. She prayed for her son and sincerely hoped his love would be reciprocated if hope still lingered. She would rather see him married to Miss Hale than to see him pining for the girl lifelong. If Miss Hale still rejected him, then he at least deserved to know who exactly the man was to her, so that he doesn't live with a false assumption, if such was the case.

Chapter Text

John discarded his attire and changed into his nightclothes. The fire was burning bright, curtains drawn up, and his room spic and span. Not one thing out of place, well, basically he didn’t own too many things in the first place. His room hence looked too spacious and meagre.

His room was his dorm in the entire mill house. It was where he rested for a few hours after a long day of hard work. Basically, there was not much difference in terms of work between him and his hands. While other mill masters simply toured their mill every day and let all responsibilities be taken care of by the overseers, John would take up any work that he knew to do. If at one point he stood supervising his mill from the iron platform like a king, the next minute he would diligently discard his coat and get under the machines to check the engines to see if anything is remiss. Other mills had workers trained for each and every work no matter how trivial or tough it might be.

John didn’t become a mill master in a day. No, it was not handed over to him by his ancestors as was the case with other mill masters. He was first a draper, then a hand in the exact same mill he worked in, became an overseer in just two years, and then a master. He never did anything without dedication and interest. He never forgot what he learned.

His room was his true home, to be honest. It was here that he could think freely without any disturbance. Yet, during all these years, despite his success and position, he felt empty. It was only during his time at the mill that he felt concentrated. But the minute he returned to his room, he felt something was missing. He always felt a part of him felt incomplete, but he knew not what. His mother suggested it was the lack of a partner. But John found that it was education that he lacked. John was a man of brains yet actual education was snatched away from him due to grave circumstances. It was then that he decided to pursue education, not economics or science, subjects that were useful to run his mill. No. He wanted to learn something that would satiate his soul, something about the literary and the artistic.

That was when he consulted Mr. Bell. He never liked his landowner, but he knew he was good in his judgments. Mr. Bell’s greatest resource was not his wealth but the number of connections he had. He would always tease and pay witty retorts to John, always interfering in his and his affairs. Yet, Mr. Bell helped him a great deal in business by recommending Marlborough Mills to several of his contacts. He never told this to John and neither did John show his awareness about the same to him. But he was grateful to him.

“So you wish to continue your studies Thornton? That’s interesting; though I am pretty sure Mrs. Thornton might see the classics as a waste of time. Why, she would rather suggest that you continue studying ‘The Times’ and ‘The Daily Courant’, haha!”

“Why Bell, do you suggest that I wake up every morning and read Romeo and Juliet before going to my mill?” John retorted curtly.

“Come now Thornton, we both know that classic isn’t the one for an unromantic like you. Now that you want me to suggest you a tutor I do know a significant person. He’s my best friend named Hale. Although, he lives in Helstone.”

“Helstone? Surely, you don’t expect me to travel to the country to study. No, that will not be feasible. Suggest me someone you know from Milton.”

“Calm down, I am not asking you to travel to Helstone. Hale is a rector there. He wishes to give up his rectory due to a sudden lack of faith. He is a great academic and now wishes to travel up north and become a tutor. I suggested Milton to him. He is quite unaware of the ways of this place, the typical countryman that he is.”

“I might be of some help if you wish.”

“Exactly. I am required in Oxford for the yearly meeting of the education committee. Hence, I want you to get them settled here. Show him a few properties to choose from and once he gets adjusted, you can start getting tutored.”

“Well, that can be done. I do suppose a modest home might be enough for one person.”

“Aye, Thornton, no. Hale is not the only one coming here. His entire family will be shifting here. Four members- wife, daughter, maid, and Hale himself.”

“Oh, I see. Then I will show them the best ones available. Let me know further details once you get with it. I will take my leave now, have ledgers to pour in! Good day, Bell.”

Now when he thought about the conversation, he understood how much his life had changed because of the Hales. Not in a bad way, of course. He had been of little use to the family, but Mr. Hale and Miss Hale had changed him for the better. His coarse life, which was all and only about cotton and machines, was thrown into the paths of morals, kindness, and most importantly love. Although, unrequited.

He paced in his room slowly. The fire was of help, it warmed him from the coldness in his heart. He surmised over how he would never regret meeting the woman of his dreams. It will be the best part of his life even if she hardly thought about him.

He knew that Miss Hale was about to tell him something when they met in her home. But he stopped her abruptly and uttered the biggest lie he ever told in his life. The reason was simple; he couldn’t bear hearing her tell him that the man at the station was her intended and that she lied in order to save him. No that would shatter his already broken heart.

Now that his mind drifted to the conversation he had with his mother, he thought about her approval of the Latimers. As much as he showed his lack of awareness over the number of women who vied for his attention, he knew very well how they pried and strived to become attached to him. Miss Latimer was undoubtedly one of them. He had nothing against her, she was a fine woman like any other Milton-bred. But it was only with time when he understood how conniving her pretensive naivety was.

She befriended his sister only to get him under her trap. He knew very well that she hardly cared about Fanny. If Fanny was immature, innocent, and too ignorant, Miss Latimer was cunning and coquettish. She hid her sly nature under a well-practiced smile. Many times she belittled Fanny right in front of other women, although Fanny was hardly aware that she was being mocked. Yet he never thought to pull his sister apart from her so-called friend, because he knew that his sister had no one else as her confidante. She already resented her mother and brother, and breaking her friendship with Miss Latimer will only hurt her more. He decided to be quiet.

Just as the women prying for his attentions derived artful tactics, he, similarly did the same to keep them at bay. Many times would Mr. Latimer invite him to his office or home to discuss figures, interests, and loans, only to end up boasting about his daughter and her progress in the Switzerland finishing school.

The truth was that he had decided he will not marry Miss Latimer and any other such woman much before he even met Miss Hale. He couldn’t believe that a woman like Margaret even existed. He hardly attended social gatherings, but in the very few that he did, he witnessed women talking about a list of potential bachelors waiting for eligible wives, fashion, gowns, curtains, and such sort. They prattled about the way they strictly dealt with their maids and servants. They pretended to be knowledgeable in every aspect when they were simply being artificial.

But, Miss Hale! His Margaret! She was not like any other. She was one of a kind. Not like those manufactured dolls from finishing schools whose only aim in life was to become mistresses of wealthy households.

When his mother had said that she saw him warming up to Miss Latimer, he was gravely shocked. How did I miss such a thing? He questioned himself. Surely if mother herself had noticed it, and so would have other guests, and….

Miss Hale.

God.

No, she wouldn’t have thought what his mother thought. Or did she?

Despite pretending to not care for Miss Hale, he was well aware of how she was during his sister’s wedding. She was with Mr. Bell and talked with a few people. The women hardly cared to talk to her and gave her their haughty disapproving looks. That slimy Slickson, as usual, tried to grab her attention only to fail. He was angry at Mr. Bell for entertaining that idiot. There was a sheath of sadness covering her dainty face. Yet she looked so surreal. He understood that she might be coming to terms with her mother’s death and also her lover’s parting.

When his mind was racing with such thoughts in the church, suddenly, Miss Latimer draped her hand over his arm. Now that he recollected the incident, he remembered that he smiled not to her but in general. Surely, he cannot disentangle himself from her right in front of the guests! She was after all the maid of honor for Fanny. He had to maintain decorum and goodwill, for it was not a ball party, but his own sister’s wedding!

No matter what, he cannot let her think that he attached himself to another woman now that she rejected him. As much as John wished Miss Hale to feel at least a tinge of jealousy that he felt right now, he cannot let her think bad of him. Yes, she has a lover, she is right to have a lover, a gentleman other than the uncouth manufacturer that he was. But yet, she must know that his love was true and it kept burning for her and her only.

Now that he stood staring at the fire, he thought about his words. He had lied to her that every feeling he had for her was over. And that he was looking into the future. But what was his future if not her by his side? His feelings for her only increased tenfold. The entire town teased that Mr. Thornton was wed to Marlborough Mills. He hardly cared about their words. But now when he thought about it, he understood how true it was. It was only his mill that would be for him.

He sat on the floor, tears pricking his eyes. He didn’t stop them. As his eyes blurred in watery bokeh, he closed his eyes and uttered the truth to himself.

“I love you Margaret. I always have and always will. But I know you do not, you don’t have to.”

***

In a distant part of the town, in Crampton, the fire was still burning bright in a home. While everyone else was asleep, a girl was sitting by the fire in her room, clutching a keepsake, shedding silent tears.

Margaret and the gloves.

His gloves.

During the worst as well as the best of times, Margaret preferred to write in her diary. Her diary knew her deepest secrets. It knew of Helstone, her brother Fred, her childhood adventures as a pirate and swordsman, her walks with father to church and sick parishioners’ homes, silly times with Edith, failed dance classes from Mrs. Bringham in London, her rejection of Henry’s proposal, and whatnot!

Most importantly, it also knows about Mr. Thornton.

Margaret slept late these past few weeks. No matter how much she tried, she wasn’t able to let go of her grief. Her mother’s death was lying heavy on her heart. Then her brother’s nearly tragic escapade in Outwood, Leonards’ death, Mr. Mason’s investigation, her father’s sadness and guilt, Dixon’s prattling of how their shift to Milton perished her mother.

And to add oil to the already burning thick fire, Mr. Thornton’s degraded opinion of her.

It was that which devastated her. To be frank, Margaret started to come to terms with her mother’s death ever since she came to Milton. It was now that she understood that she would have died even if she was in Helstone. She missed her deeply, yet she had the strength to accept her absence.

But what she couldn’t bear was Mr. Thornton’s indifference to her. She would have retorted as she did with Mrs. Thornton had he chastised her. But no, he was quick to cling to the worst notion just by what he saw! She tried to pacify herself by clutching her pride, that she didn’t do anything improper. Yet his cold eyes staring at her and her brother that night haunted her inevitably. That was enough to understand what impression she made.

If it had been anyone else, she would have hardly bothered. Why had it been him? She cannot dare to look at his face despite knowing she did the right thing. Every time she saw him put her into some sort of guilt; almost as if her inner mind was telling her that she did the worst offense.

She wanted him to understand honestly. She wanted to convey that the man wasn’t related to her in the way he thought. But she almost told him that she had feelings for him. Didn’t she? Now that she recalled their conversation for the hundredth time, she remembered her telling him that her opinions of him have improved just as his of hers had lowered.

What Margaret couldn’t forgive was that he didn’t let her speak. He didn’t make an effort to understand. What’s more, he might be turning away from her and leaning towards the notion of getting attached to Miss Latimer. Margaret wasn’t the one to fall for slight jealousies. She never disparaged others and never let anyone disparage her. But in the two times she had seen them together- once during Miss Thornton’s wedding and the other time on the street, she felt jealous and annoyed. Her mind suddenly replaced that woman with her own, holding his arms. She tried hard to keep such an idea away, but she cannot.

She once teased Mrs. Thornton when she boasted about the attention her son received. Margaret had scoffed at the thought but look at her now! Wasn’t she too included in what his mother had told that day in her home?

Or maybe not. Well, she wasn’t the type of woman who would ensnare a man by art and tact. No, she was way better than that. Matrimony, according to her, should be based on friendship and love. But she knew that not everyone married for what she thought. Mr. Thornton was a businessman and surely, marriage to his banker’s daughter would be quite beneficial…

Hot tears slid down her face. She missed Bessy now more than ever. She would have understood the situation and judged properly. And even Fred. Both of them were now distant, unreachable. She so much needed someone to confide in but had none.

Except for her diary.

It was an inanimate object, yet it had been her savior in life. Now that she flipped the pages of the leather book in her hands, her eyes briefly caught one name on almost every page.
His name, obviously.

Towards the beginning, it was Mr. Thornton but somewhere towards the end, it became John.

Margaret dared not address him by his Christian name. Yet she knew that her time in Milton can be summed up in how Mr. Thornton turned John to her. She hated both in the beginning, shrank her nose at the very name of Milton and Mr. Thornton, but now, her ideas and feelings have extensively changed towards both.

But what’s the use? He has gone ahead to think the worst of her. He was slowly drifting apart from her. For her, Milton and Mr. Thornton were no different. She cannot put into words how much she loved his visits to her home, to discuss the classics with her father. She felt the most homely she could ever feel when she carried the tea tray, poured tea in their cups, and handed it over to them, sat in the settee, and listened to their enriching discussions. Both men never stopped her from engaging in their discussions. They always asked for her thoughts but also equally debated against them constructively. Such a thing was a luxury rarely offered in London. She remembered how Edith and Aunt Shaw would force her to talk, but the minute she started talking openly, they would force her to stop! They never tolerated her vibrancy and passions; only wanted her to discuss running households, choosing curtains and linens, tea parties, and such things.

Margaret now realized that her father had started to become close to her only after coming to Milton. She saw that he was becoming more like a friend to her, although she knew that she cannot confide beyond a limit, since it might hurt him and increase his guilt. But she always listened to him talking about his discussions with fellow students, recalling Helstone times, days as a rector, and parish visits.
Margaret knew that her father had an inkling of something going on between her and Mr. Thornton. Yet, he didn’t question again and neither did he stop her from attending their discussions. He had noticed that their discussions were turning a bit serious, not too formal, but somewhat to the point. There was not much opposition but only noting down things and merely nodding. She was thankful that her father didn’t force her to confide, although she desperately needed a person to talk to.

The late hour forced her to seek her bed. Her father and Dixon didn’t know that she slept late these days. Sometimes sleep wouldn’t come and she would simply wake up, fetch a book, and sit in the stairs or walk around the house like a spirit in the dark. Finally, she would give in to the undisturbed peace of her bedchamber.

She coiled on the bed and thought about his words. A stab of sorrow hurt her. She realized that she was diminished to something trivial, like dust in the air. She wanted to run somewhere as fast as she could and scream.

But she cannot, hence, she whispered.

“I love you, John Thornton. But I know you do not. Anymore.”

Chapter Text

The morning arrived with profound opportunities to rise and shine. In Marlborough Mills, Mrs. Thornton and her son were already on the breakfast table. The sombre mood of yesternight hadn’t perished entirely. The Thorntons were used to their gloomy lives, but this monstrous silence and implied sadness drove Mrs. Thornton to madness.

She was not able to see her son so sorrowful. In the past sixteen years, she had never seen him so dull and moody. The mill was his life but now, a woman claimed his mind and soul. No, she had to do something soon, or lest, she lost her only son to irreparable depression.

“John”, she called out timidly yet with an edge.

“Yes mother”, came the immediate reply.

Mrs. Thornton took a deep breath. She composed herself and determined that she cannot spoil the conversation yet again. She said-

“I apologize for what I said yesterday night. No, I don’t care about your position as much as I care for you as a mother should. I hope you know that.”

“Of course, I do. As I said, it’s only you who cares about me in this whole world. It will be only you.”

“But still, you aren’t happy, my son.”

John looked back at her before resigning to reading the paper.

“Look John, stop pretending to read the paper. I don’t know when they will turn to flames by your stare. Enough now, I have to tell you something. I was thinking quite for some time yesterday night and came to a suggestion…”

“If your suggestion includes the Latimers or any other family, then please keep it to yourself, mother.”

“Ah, there, you see, won’t let me speak! I apologized for that too. I know she will not make you happy. What I wanted to suggest is entirely different.”

“Continue.”

“You see, Mrs. Hale had suggested that I be a good friend and guide to Margaret after her death. I reluctantly agreed because this whole town knows Miss Hale is a woman guided by her own conscience. Yet, I promised her mother, so I cannot give up on it.”

“I agree, although I do understand that you and she might not be too good a company. But then you can try being of any help you can, that is, only if Miss Hale is interested in such an offer of friendship.”

“Yes. But I am afraid I already had a bad start on that score.”

“What? Why, please explain? Did you try talking to her?”

“Yes, I did. I went to see her after that incident in Outwood.”

Mrs. Thornton need not tell the rest for John immediately understood what would have occurred. Flying barbs would have been put forth by both women and ultimately, his mother would have accepted defeat.

“There, John. Don’t think the unthinkable. Yes, you thought right though. She spoke as haughty as she always did. But I do think I did her a disservice. I wish to remedy that.”

Now, this was quite a shock to John. It was how near his mother could go to give an apology and ask for forgiveness.

“And how would you do that?”

“By meeting her often, inviting her to tea at home. Now that Fanny is not here anymore, Miss Hale can freely come without any tension of hearing about draperies, gowns, and fashion. I wish to let her know that I am always there for counsel and guidance, even if that toffee-nosed uppish woman hardly needs one! I don’t know what subjects I could talk to her about, but I might try.”

Mr. Thornton nearly laughed. This morning, he saw a new change in his mother. Just yesterday morning she had called her improper and snobbish. Even now, she continued to do so. But she wanted to be her confidante. If not be her husband, Mr. Thornton would at least rejoice in her presence at his home. That should be enough for his aching heart to frame memories and imagination.”

“I sincerely hope she would agree to your approach, mother. I know she will.”

With that, Mrs. Thornton sat back to write the letter. Her sewing can wait for a while.

***

Margaret might be bad at a number of things, but she can be worse at waking up early in the morning.

Ever since she was a child, she had trouble waking up on time. Her mother used to scold her for being late to get up, not proper for a lady of good upbringing, as she believed. She and Dixon were quite firm on waking up on time no matter even if the sky had fallen down! Her father was quite lenient in that case. But Dixon would try patting her once and twice, and the next minute, she would scoop Margaret in her arms like a just-born babe and put her on warm water.

Today, she relived the same nightmare.

The warm water pinched her skin and she was awake in an instant. Dixon kept rambling about Margaret’s bad habit, now that it was half past eleven.

“Old habits die hard, Dixon”, said Margaret in her husky sleepy voice.

“Miss Margaret, it is important for a lady to wake up on time! Why, you are the mistress of the house! Now that your mother’s soul rests in peace, and your father ever easy-going that he was, it lies on me to make you a proper woman!”

“Don’t you worry, Dixon. I will try waking up on time.”

After helping her dress, Dixon couldn’t help but watch her beloved friend’s daughter looking ever beautiful even in her mourning dress. She only hoped that Miss Margaret would get married soon enough to an excellent London man. That would help Mrs. Hale’s soul rest happily, knowing her daughter to be in good hands.

And with that, she became ready, and came down the stairs, thinking how to spend her day. Father had already had breakfast and went to Lyceum Hall for his lectures as usual. Margaret was happy for her father as his lectures would keep him away from his guilt and grief.

“But what about me?” Margaret asked herself. Her mind started to drift achingly towards yesterday. That dreadful conversation. His confession of his feelings for her having perished forever. His opinion of hers lost to the wind.

She only prayed he would not cancel his classes with her father on her account. He told her yesterday that he would like to be just her father’s friend, nothing more, nothing less. But she understood how uncomfortable her presence could make him. She wanted to do something about it, to make the situation easy for all three of them.

Just then, there was a knock on the door.

Her mind immediately raced to Mr. Thornton. But the next second, she thought it cannot be, for she knew how loud and clear he knocked at the door.
When she opened the door, it was Mary Higgins.

Mary started to help the Hales’ household when Frederick Hale was at Crampton for his secret visit. Margaret trusted Mary completely with her secret, and she in return offered to come to her home and help, so that Margaret can cherish her time with her brother after so long. Margaret undoubtedly was grateful for Mary’s timely assistance.

After her mother’s death and Frederick gone, Mary still wished to continue helping the household. But Margaret didn’t wish to impose on her anymore, as she had to even look after the Boucher children. Mary resisted, saying she wished to know more about running households under Dixon’s care so that it might help her in the future. She also assured Margaret that the Boucher children’s eldest was quite capable of looking after themselves until she would join them by late afternoon.

“Hello Mary, please come in. I thought you wouldn’t join us today as it is already about twelve noon.”

“I’m sorry, Missie, but ther’s some trouble at home. Need ya help, please. Li’l Tom sprained his ankle after having a race with the neighbor kid. Stupid child, now he crying and asking to see ya.”

“Oh, that’s dreadful! Why did he have to run like that? Christ, I only hope he isn’t hurt too much. I will come right away.”

“Aye, he scratched his elbows a li’l and cries hard. Father couldn’t leave him as it is, and asked me to come to fetch ya.”

Margaret fetched her straw hat, informed Dixon, who literally huffed as usual in disgust. Dixon never liked the Higginses, although she was warming towards Mary.

Both girls started to walk fast as their feet could take them towards Princeton. Margaret hoped that the boy would recover soon and felt happy that he had asked to see her. It filled her heart with love and affection. It reminded her of her own childhood when she used to fall down by running in the grass and woods. She would cry incessantly until Fred would clean her wounds and reassure her that she could walk, hop, and run again in no time.

Breaking from her reverie, Margaret asked, “Nicholas is still at home? Isn’t he supposed to be at the mill? It’s already late!”

“Papa had to go to the station to check some orders… was told by the master to finish it first and then get back to the mill by eleven.. But now it’s late, I canna only hope master won’t be angry with him… too punctual that he is.. a minute late and he slams the door right on ya face!”

“No. Mary. Mr. Thornton will understand the situation. He does value his time but he is also compassionate.”

Mary smirked to herself hearing Miss Hale’s words. Compassionate was the farthest word in Mr. Thornton’s dictionary, that is, before Miss Hale set her foot in Milton. Now, he showed a bit of a soft corner and empathy towards others.

They had reached the cramped Higgins’ household. Tom Boucher's cry was shrill but upon seeing Margaret he wailed softly. Margaret felt her heart pinched to see the boy huddled up in bed beside Nicholas. She examined his foot and saw that it had been swelled up a bit. His right elbow was scraped with a fresh tinge of dried red blood. Overall, it wasn’t as bad as it could have been, thankfully.

“Have a seat, lass. Sorry to disturb ya. Boy kept preaching your name like a rooster. The rest of the herd started cryin’ too, until I warned them that they will never see ya again if they do, haha.”

“Nicholas, I won’t stop coming here no matter what! I love the children as much as they love me. Thank god, Tom’s wounds are not too bad. Dixon gave me an ointment and an oil to be used. This will help little Tom”.

“Aye, will it burn my skin, Margie?”, asked Tom trying to control his tears.

“No dear, it will not, I hope. But please be careful. It wouldn’t do to hurt yourself while playing, it can end up worse sometimes, Tom. Promise me, you will take care?”

“I do, missie!”

After a few assuring words, Margaret tended to the lad’s wounds. Little did she know that she was being watched keenly by a visitor, who was standing tall and firm by the door.

Mr. Thornton was waiting for the past half an hour for Higgins. He hardly realized that it had been more than four hours since he kept filling his ledgers and walking the floor, checking after everything. The work was swiftly happening, spic and span. He had asked Higgins to not come directly to the mill that day but rather go to the railway station to ensure the orders were carted properly. He had to be back an hour ago, but he hadn’t returned yet.

His absence led Mr. Thornton to worry. But he surmised that all would be well, for it was Higgins he had assigned the task. Yet, he was becoming quite restless and decided to go to the station directly and see for himself.

While he was walking towards the station, he came across two young women hurrying as swiftly as a breeze towards Princeton. He immediately recognized them to be Miss Hale and Mary Higgins. He saw them walk fast with a brief confusion patched up in their faces. It was a guilty pleasure to see her after yesterday’s terrible conversation. He wanted to apologize to her for his harsh words and continue maintaining a friendship with the Hales. But now after seeing her hurrying towards Higgins’ home, he became suspicious that something wrong had happened to his foreman. He rushed to Princeton, following the two women, keeping his distance, so that they wouldn't notice.

He reached just on time and was about to knock on the door. But the door was slightly ajar and he could see her sitting calmly by the bedside. After a little scrutiny, he understood that it was Tom Boucher who was hurt and she was tending to his wounds. She spoke such reassuring kind words to the young lad, patted him, and embraced him saying all would be well and that he needed to take care while he played. This scene was too domestic and natural, and Mr. Thornton’s mind raced to his own reverie… Miss Hale, his Margaret tending to her, no, their child after he had fallen down while playing…

His daydreams were broken by Nicholas.

“Aye, look ya’ll who’s here! Master Thornton. Do come in, God knows how much time ye been standing at the door watching lord knows what!”

Margaret sprang to her feet. The door was still closed until it started to open slowly but steadily, to reveal the tall figure she expected to see. Mr. Thornton came inside the cramped household wondering what to say. His gaze was fixed on his object of affections, although his reply was directed to Nicholas.

“Well, it became late and I became impatient. Thought something went wrong in the station with them orders.”

“Ye, Tom yanked his ankle on the street. Tryna race with the kid next door, only to end up with a brok’n foot. Asked for Miss Margaret all the time and didn’t let me come to ya mill. Thought to come as soon as possible once the lassie comes.

“I see. How is he now, Miss Hale? I see you were tending to his wounds. Should I fetch Doctor Donaldson?”

“He will be fine, Mr. Thornton. I don’t see any need for the doctor yet, for you see, it’s quite usual for children to fall while they play. I only hope he doesn’t hurt himself badly next time.”

Her answer impressed Mr. Thornton. It was good to see and hear her, although she avoided looking at him while speaking. Just then, Mary interfered-

“But master, how do ya know she here? I mean papa here?”

Everyone noticed what Mary just blabbered. Margaret turned red while Mr. Thornton stammered.

“Aye lass, he knows everything. Now you stop gawking and check the stew. Let Tom rest”. Nicholas managed to cover up the situation.

Mr. Thornton, having nothing come to mind to say, said- “Higgins, you can stay here to look after Tom if you want. I will excuse you for a day. What say, Miss Hale? He needs a day off, doesn’t he?"

“I don’t think so. Tom is fierce and it’s nothing much, really. But Nicholas can stay here if that’s what Tom wants, although I see that the boy is already asleep.”

“I will go to the mill, canna stay at home, work is pending. The hands won’t work and keep talkin’ their mouths off if I ain’t there. Meanwhile, if the master can escort Miss Margaret back to home…”

That was all Mr. Thornton needed to hear. He remembered that he had to apologize for his harsh words to her yesterday. Before Higgins could finish, he sprang at the offer.

“Miss Hale, yes, I can escort you back home, if you wouldn’t mind, that is.”

Margaret was deeply confused. Hadn’t he just told her that he didn’t care about her anymore? Now, why the offer to escort? He knew well that she toured Princeton almost every day alone, without an escort. Now, with this offer and his terrible words of yesterday still fresh in mind, Margaret decided to politely decline the request. She wasn’t able to bear Mr. Thornton’s mixed attitude towards her.

“No, Mr. Thornton. I thank you, but I can manage alone. Princeton is nothing new to me and you men must have work to discuss and complete. I take my leave. Bye, Mary and Nicholas.”

With that, she planted a kiss on Tom’s forehead, fetched her hat, and hurried out of the door.

Mr. Thornton felt a bit humiliated but he knew this was to come. Hadn’t he insulted her just yesterday? How would she have him escort her back home right after hearing his miserable words? He was dejected, and the Higginses noticed him with confusion.

Nicholas stirred his thoughts.

“Anythin’ wrong with both of ye? Argument again?”

“Yes. But this time, I think it will be our last argument. She will not have me”, Mr. Thornton muttered sadly under his breath.

Mary and Nicholas were stunned. It was no surprise that half of the town had an idea of something brewing up between the master and the southern lass. Yet now, both of them stood at opposite ends.
Both men took their leave. The Boucher children were busy playing house, Tom was resting, while Mary was deep in thought.

It was Bessie who was a dear friend of Margaret’s. Mary was an introvert by birth, and more so, Miss Hale had always intrigued her. At first, she thought that her sister’s friendship with the southern woman would not last long. No matter what, Miss Hale did have an air of grace and pride in her. She believed that Margaret would not visit Princeton for long, for the dirty part of the town that it was. But contrary to what she expected, Miss Hale proved to be a good friend not just to her dying sister but to the entire family. She helped not just with her baskets but with her enduring support. Still Miss Hale was like an enigma to Mary. But while dying, Bessie asked Mary to be a good friend to Margaret, now that she will be ascending to heaven. Mary promised.

While Miss Hale was well aware of the Higgins’ household’s in and out, Mary never knew what kind of life Miss Hale led. She wanted to befriend Miss Hale for she sure knew the lass faced her troubles as well. Slowly, both women started to warm towards each other. Margaret talked about her time in Helstone and London, her brother Frederick and the mutiny he led, her first thoughts of Milton, and even about the strike. She revealed that Boucher’s stone had hit her and the entire gossip was about her. In return, Mary talked about her sister Bessie, their childhood, Milton’s trade and culture, and her dead mother Celia.

With everything Miss Hale said to her, Mary’s respect and admiration for her only grew. She decided to be a good listener and helper to her in times of need, as much as she was to them.

One day, when Mary was clearing the linens in every room of the Hales’ household under Dixon’s orders, she noticed a pair of rich black shiny gloves on Margaret’s nightstand. It was hidden under a pile of books and Miss Hale’s basket. At first, Mary thought that it belonged to her father or her brother; more so, it must be a keepsake given by her brother before he escaped back to Spain. But when Mary took a deeper look, she realized that she had rather seen the same in someone else’s hands, but couldn’t recollect whose. She quickly peered at the gloves and knew that they were made of excellent quality. Another quick look at the rim of the gloves put her in shock. She saw initials of a person, letters which were present in none of the Hales’ names.

JGT.

John George Thornton.

Mary silently settled the gloves back in place, cleared the linens, and went to the kitchen. While kneading the dough, she thought why Miss Margaret was in possession of Mr. Thornton’s gloves. She had seen her withdrawn and sorrowful than usual, but she had attributed it to be as a result of her mother’s death and brother’s misfortune. Now, she understood that something was off between Miss Margaret and the master, and more so, Miss Margaret Hale was in love.

She wanted both of them to resolve their differences and become together if fate and hope were true. Bessie was the first to hint at such a thing while she was still alive. “Ya see for sure, the lovely lass and master gonna live under the same roof one day, mark my words, Mary”, she had exclaimed. At that time, Mary hardly bothered. But now, she wished for the same.

She was not the one to pry in someone else’s affairs. But Miss Margaret Hale was not someone else. She was one of their own. Mary decided to try to stir up things a bit if she could, mostly try talking to Miss Hale, or ask her father if he could try talking to the stern master. Something had to be done.

Chapter Text

Mrs. Thornton finished writing her letter. It was short as were all the letters she ever wrote. It was to the point, asking Miss Hale if she can come for tea to her place the coming Saturday. It was Tuesday and although Mrs. Thornton would have invited Miss Hale right the next day, she wanted to take time and think about the events of the past few months. Also, Fanny had mentioned that she would visit her again in the week to discuss planning about her first social gathering as Mrs. Watson. Mrs. Thornton knew she would have a tough time listening to Fanny’s monotonous and grandiose ideas, hence didn’t want Miss Hale to join the idle talk and suffer equally. Plus, she wanted to have a private conversation with her, despite not knowing how she would start warming up towards her, after the dreadful conversation they last had at Crampton.

She neatly folded the letter in an envelope and left to search for Jane, the maid. She thought to ask John to hand over the letter to Mr. Hale or Miss Hale by himself, but dismissed the idea. He had spoken rudely to Miss Hale (not that she doesn’t deserve it, but still) and didn’t want to push them both into another awkward conversation. Jane will be responsible to see that the letter is delivered, Mrs. Thornton decided.

She left the drawing room and went upstairs to search for the maid. She wasn’t available in the kitchen, so she must be airing the rooms, Mrs. Thornton thought. She reached the first floor as well as the second, but the maid was nowhere to be found. Confused, Mrs. Thornton decided to wait as the girl might have gone to buy groceries.

When she climbed down the stairs to get back to her sitting room, Mrs. Thornton saw Jane tiptoeing into the kitchen section. She looked cautious and careful, as if she was going to hide something. Mrs. Thornton was puzzled. She knew that Jane’s beau had died under mysterious circumstances near Outwood. She felt sad for the young woman. Jane was a first-level gossiper of Milton. She along with Fanny made a dangerous pair, thick as thieves. But still, she realized that Jane was distraught and hence, told her to take a month’s leave to mourn her beau’s demise. But the girl was quick to bounce back from her grief and rejected the offer. Sometimes she would go back to her quarters and cry. Mrs. Thornton and John decided to increase her wages to compensate for her aid in running the household despite her grief.

Now when she saw Jane retreating to the kitchen, Mrs. Thornton followed her. She felt a bit odd to follow her maid in her own home. But her insights told her that something was wrong, and follow she did.

Jane was clutching a ragged bag. She quickly opened the bag and took out its contents haphazardly. Without thinking, she threw the items into the kitchen fire! Some of the things she was throwing included a few clothes, letters, and other such stuff.

Mrs. Thornton was stunned but understood that she was probably emptying her fiance’s belongings. A girl would have rather sought to keep them safe as her beloved’s keepsake but here was a woman who was throwing them all out in the flames. Mrs. Thornton realized that it was not her right to judge the maid even though she was still suspicious.

Just then, a parchment fell carelessly from the bag and settled under the kitchen table. Jane didn’t notice it. She continued throwing the items and once done, poked the fire with the stick to assure everything was burnt out to ashes. She closed the bag quickly, exited the kitchen, and went upstairs without any trace of emotions.

Mrs. Thornton was careful to not be seen by the maid. She entered the kitchen. A part of her didn’t know what was happening and felt silly. She fetched the parchment that had fallen from under the table. It was quite old. It was torn at the edges, but the owner of the keepsake had made sure to keep it together with glue. She turned to the front side of the parchment to read what was written.

And what she read put her to a great shock. It was the most unexpected and she stood baffled. A minute later, she regained her composure and carefully deposited the paper in a chest in her bedroom.

***

Mr. Thornton and Higgins walked together to the mill. The people in the streets gazed at both of them as it was a rare sight to see the master walk with a worker, that too, a union leader. Both men walked confidently although silent.

Higgins, tired of the silence, informed him about the order details that he was assigned to that morning. He assured the master that the order would reach the port on time and that the clients would receive it on time. Mr. Thornton hardly registered a word. His eyebrows were furrowed (was it a surprise anymore?) and face under deep contemplation.

“Thornton, ye there?”

“Yes. Was everything in order at the station? The consignment will reach the clients on time, huh?”

Nicholas was annoyed that he had to explain everything right from the beginning.

“Aye, that’s what I was talkin’ about for the last ten minutes. Your head was here but not ye ears.”

“Sorry. I was absentminded”.

“Not a surprise”.

Mr. Thornton gave a helpless ironic laugh and continued walking briskly. Higgins thought once and twice if it would help to get into the subject, but then gave in.

“Ye thoughts are half the day round the mill, and the other half wandering to a bonny face, I suppose”.

Mr. Thornton knew this was going to come. He was an extremely private person yet one cannot keep everything to himself all the time. He wanted to confide his thoughts to someone. All his years, his mother was his constant support and anchor, to whom he informed every decision and functioning of the mill. But now that his thoughts were occupied by a “bonny face” as Nicholas teased, he couldn’t talk much with his mother about the woman he loved.

“I am not going to pretend by denying what you said, Higgins.”

“I know. I am just a weaver and a foreman, your worker. But still, if you gonna need someone to just talk, know that I am always there for ye”.

Mr. Thornton felt silent for a while. It was the first time someone had told this to him except his mother. Well, he never gave his mother the opportunity to say such a thing to him in the first place, for he always talked to her freely about the mill. But with Higgins, it was different. They were once as contrasted as water and fire, but now, they had started to find an equal ground.

The thing was that Mr. Thornton didn’t know what exactly to say to the man. Where would he begin? Would he be destroying the Hales’ trust if he confided in Higgins? He knew that Miss Hale was close to the Higginses, but still didn’t know how to broach the subject.

“Higgins, I understand that Mary helps the Hales in their home. I am close to Mr. Hale but didn’t get much of a chance to talk to Miss Hale. How is she doing now? I see that she’s somewhat calm but suppressed.”

“Aye, she hides her emotions well while helpin’ others all the time. My Bess was the happiest during her final days because of her, ye know. Charming li’l woman that she is. Talks sense and makes sure everyone is happy”.

Mr. Thornton smiled. He knew that Miss Hale was a lucky charm to anyone who befriended her. Except him, he thought wryly.

Higgins suddenly asked- “Thornton, what’s keeping you both apart? Now don’ tell me you both ain’t feelin’ for each other. Ye can fool one or two but not the whole town!”

“Nothing is keeping us apart for we were never together in the first place, Higgins. We will never be. She will never have me”.

Mr. Thornton answered dejectedly but with a sternness. But Higgins was not the one to give in so easily.

“I don’ know what happened between ye and her, but just know that talkin’ frankly will help put everything in place. It seems that both of ye talk honest to everyone except each other”.

“What’s the use of talking frankly when I know she is someone else’s? She is in love with another, Higgins”.

Now it was Higgins’ eyebrows which almost shot up to the head before furrowing. He wasn’t able to believe what he heard.

“Ye talking about that barrister? A London chap named Lenny something?”

“Mr. Henry Lennox. Yes, a respectable famous barrister of criminal law. Miss Hale’s cousin’s brother-in-law. But no, that crooked nose of a man ain’t the one I am talking about. What made you think of him? How do you know him?”

“Remember my Bess telling me. That barrister fella asked for the lass’ hand back in her country house.”

Mr. Thornton turned stone and cold. It shouldn’t have come as a surprise to him as he was quite jealous of Mr. Lennox when they met in the Great Exhibition.

“Aye, chill. She didn’t accept the man. Said she saw him just as a friend and nothing else. Now don’t know which man ye talking about, but I so wish it is you for her Thornton”.

They had reached the mill gates. Mr. Thornton shook hands with Higgins before both parted their ways to complete the tasks of the day. Mr. Thornton registered this newly gained information fresh in his mind as it gave him a little solace. Why would she reject an offer from Henry Lennox who had a good name in the law circles of London? And to be close to her family? So her expectations were surely not wealth, society, or London’s extravagant pleasures. But just then, his solace was crushed when the image of the handsome young man embracing Miss Hale sprang like a needle to his mind. She might have fallen in love with this anonymous man even before moving to Milton? Yes, that must be it, he derived.

His resentment filled his inner wit once again as he slumped over the ledgers again.

***

Margaret reached her home trying hard to control her tears.

She removed her hat and quickly went to her room. Dixon, as usual, didn't notice anything amiss. Her father had not yet returned from the Lyceum Hall. She knew that he was putting in extra hours so as to keep his grief and guilt at bay.

Her thoughts went back to Mr. Thornton. She had become quite annoyed when he “so graciously” offered to escort her. How dare he? One minute he jarred out his hatred towards her, diminishing her as an object which deserved foolishness. The other minute, he came ahead to play the gentleman role.

Margaret started to become confused about him. Not that she doubted her own feelings, she was in love with him, now more so than ever. But why were his feelings oscillating upside down? A part of her told that he only offered to escort because of Higgins. But then she wasn’t entirely blind to the way he kept looking at her, just as the way he always did when he came to attend his lessons with her father. That look made her unsettled and fleeting as always, but today it made her angry. And she was irritated that she couldn’t stop herself from turning red at the sight of him.

She asked herself if he was mocking her. She controlled herself from thinking about the extent to which he and his mother went ahead to think of her. Definitely, he must be thinking of her as a fallen woman? The thought disturbed her too much. She was aware that the gossip circles of Milton relished the rumor of her having been seen with a man late at night. As much as she was immune to those useless gossipers, she wasn’t able to be negligent of what Mr. Thornton was currently thinking.

She realized then that this wouldn’t do. She had to inform him of the actual truth of the incident some way or the other. Or at least, tell him that the man was not related to her in the way he thought. Insufferable man! Thought the worst of her but still she wasn’t able to think ill of him.

She wiped her tears and came downstairs to see if any work was to be done. Dixon, just then opened the door, and in came her father and Mr. Bell.

Margaret felt a glimmer of glee on seeing her godfather. She knew that he was nothing less of a prankster and a meddler, who hardly understood the “p” of privacy. But then, his presence was always surrounded with an aura of honesty, open conversations, and humor. He was just the right person who could help her father feel better, as well as her.

Mr. Bell came towards Margaret. “How are you, my dear? You look radiant as always.”

“Ah, Bell, you don’t know how strong she is despite the grief”, Mr. Hale said.

“I obviously know. She is the firmest one I have ever seen. Will not cripple under anything. Now my dear, tell me what are you about today? Visited your Princeton friends?”

“Yes, Mr. Bell. I just reached home. One of the Boucher boys took a fall and sprained his ankle. I had gone to help him”.

“I see. I came to know that the union leader, pray what’s his name… yes, Mr. Higgins is looking after the orphan children of the late Bouchers. That’s indeed great of him”.

“Yes, Bell. Higgins is a proud fellow just like John. Won’t stoop down for anyone and holds fast to his principles, exactly like John”, said Mr. Hale, taking an interest in the conversation.

Margaret felt uneasy at the course of the conversation. Was everything to be related to Mr. Thornton? Why can’t I live a day without hearing his name? She mused.

Mr. Bell noticed Margaret. Needless to say, he purposely steered the conversation ahead.

“Yes, I daresay Thornton found a tough opponent and worker in Higgins. All thanks to our Margaret dear. Thornton should be grateful to her”.

“Why, what does Margaret have to do in this, Bell?”

Before Mr. Bell could answer, Margaret responded quickly to her father’s question. “Papa, it was me who suggested that Higgins take up work in Marlborough Mills.”

“And while Mr. Thornton turned down the union man for two days, he gave him a place after knowing it was our Margaret who recommended him to get work in Marlborough Mills”.

Mr. Hale gasped in surprise while Mr. Bell was happy for having gained his first score with today’s conversation. He smiled at his goddaughter.

“Oh… yes, well, he didn’t have any idea it was me who had suggested and moreover, Higgins was desperate to get work, as any of the masters wouldn’t take him after the strike. I knew your pupil will see reason and Higgins’ calibre, papa, and he did”.

“That he does, my dear. He got a fine eye for judgment. His analysis hardly goes wrong”.

Now it was Margaret’s turn to give a sarcastic laugh, which was noted by Mr. Bell. He immediately piped up with a question-

“Why my dear, do you disagree with your father? Isn’t Mr. Thornton a fine judge of talent and capacity?”

“That Mr. Bell is known only to him. Or I daresay he is quick to judge, assume, but ignorant enough to think twice about what he judges”.

Margaret, then quickly exited the drawing room, having enough of the conversation. She retreated to her room, leaving the two men pondering at what she had just said.

“Now Hale, tell me if you can sense something going on between your pupil and daughter”.

This was the second time, Mr. Bell came up with the question. Mr. Hale, as always, was confused.

“Rather not, Bell. Or I must say I don’t know. They do have a friendship of sorts. They are civil and formal to each other as compared to previously. Now, that’s a good improvement, I believe”.

Civil? Now that was far from what Mr. Bell expected. For other lovers, being civil with each other was considered quite normal. But the Thornton and Margaret that he knew weren’t supposed to be formal with each other! Civil and respectful, yes. But formal was a word that rather hinted something amiss between the man and the woman.

Mr. Bell knew that it was meaningless to go ahead with the conversation with his negligent friend. For all the scholarly pursuits he was accomplished with, observation wasn’t one among them. Or whatever he observed remained within the pages of his Greek and Latin books, and dare not move towards his own daughter and her feelings.

That was when, Mr. Hale himself steered the conversation towards an unexpected person- his own son Frederick.

“Bell, I have something to tell.”

“Continue, man. I am all ears”.

“Frederick was here during Maria’s death.”

Mr. Bell was wide-eyed with shock. He knew everything about the Hales’ family secret and thought that they were in touch with their mutineer son only via letters.

“Why wasn’t I told before? Where is he now? Tell me he got back to Cadiz safe and sound. You do know that this would put him in grave danger, don’t you?”

“I know. But Margaret wrote to her brother a month before Maria’s demise. It was her last wish. I wasn’t told anything about their plan but only after the letter was sent! I was shocked but Margaret said that it would ease Maria’s pain. I couldn’t help but give in.”

“I understand but he is still wanted, always will be. We should be careful. How was he? I do know that he is under a Spanish tradesman’s roof. How did he come here and how did he go back? You all must have been under bated breath all the time!”

“Ah, yes, that we were. He was smart enough to come to Milton at midnight, so that he wouldn’t be caught. He had to ask a fellow person in the streets the route to Crampton. But that was all. He sneaked in safely and we all were lost in joy! Margaret, Dixon, and I were beyond words while he, my boy, was exactly the same as he was. Full of mirth and wit as he was. He was a great deal of comfort to Maria. Only after his arrival, I was somehow able to wash away some of my guilt for having brought Margaret and her mother to Milton. Then after five days, Maria passed away by midnight. It was Margaret who immediately suggested Fred’s removal right then. He argued and said he would stay for the funeral, pretending to be an acquaintance from Helstone, but she didn’t let him! That was wise indeed. She went to leave Fred at Outwood station, from where he got to London, and then to Cadiz. We did receive a letter from him saying he’s safely reached Cadiz.”

Mr. Bell took in his friend’s words in deep silence. What mattered to him at the moment was how prudent Margaret had been even at such a dreadfully sorrowful time! For a minute, he thought about her swift action and presence of mind. She took a grave decision which was Mr. Hale’s duty to do so. But then, Mr. Bell was well aware of his friend. He was intelligent but fragile. While Margaret was witty as well as strong at the same time.

Anger rushed in his mind when he got to know that Margaret had accompanied her brother at such a late hour to the station! Yes, the entire household was grief-stricken but the womenfolk could have been at home, while he went to leave his son at the station! Or least, he could have accompanied both his son and daughter to the station. Despite living in Milton for almost a year, Hale was still ignorant of what a dangerous town Milton was, especially with its rogues and thieves creeping out at night.

“Bell, I know you don’t support a bit of what occurred but for Maria’s sake…”

“Hale, don’t worry. I do understand. Now, tell me, does Thornton have any idea about your son? Surely, you must have told him something for he would have come to attend his lessons as usual?”

“Oh, no. That is, I didn’t get an opportunity to tell as I didn’t know when exactly Frederick would come. At first, I thought about telling him because I trust him well. But Margaret stopped me from doing so. She said that we shouldn’t put him in an awkward position as he is a magistrate. She said she will take care of it and I left it at that. But then, I do remember him having come for his lessons! It was Margaret who handled him while we all were upstairs with Maria. I forgot to ask her how she managed him. You see, it was only yesterday that he came here for his lessons after that day, if I am right. He hadn’t sent a note even explaining the reasons for his absence all these weeks, but I assume it must be something with the mill.”

“I see”. Mr. Bell sighed and went back to his thoughts while Mr. Hale, to his books. After a while, he left Crampton, bidding goodbye to his goddaughter and friend, promising them he would return tomorrow.
While he was walking towards Clarendon Hotel, Mr. Bell tried to piece together the information that Mr. Hale so casually put out.

First thing was Margaret’s opinion on Thornton’s sense of judgment. She was clear in her words without any hesitation- “quick to judge, assume but ignorant to think twice”. What did she relate that to? And secondly, came Hale’s confession. According to him, Thornton came to Crampton when Frederick was present in the home and after several weeks, he only went yesterday. No missive in between to explain his absence. Odd indeed.

And also that conversation they had about a month ago on the street- Thornton, Margaret, Mr. Latimer, and Miss Latimer. Now that his mind went back to that incident, he realized that Thornton and Margaret were taking secret glances at each other. Mr. Latimer was as always making use of the meeting as another chance to boast about weddings; while Margaret shyly extended her hand to Miss Latimer, the woman rather shot a haughty look at Margaret. He also remembered her taking possession of Thornton’s arm and swiftly moving away to his mill house beside him. While all Margaret did was walk slowly, but not before she turned behind to have one final look at Thornton.

Was Margaret feeling a tinge of jealousy with regards to Thornton and Miss Latimer? And most importantly, is Thornton courting his banker’s daughter? Surely not, Thornton cannot be as imprudent as that, for he could have fallen into the Latimers’ clutches long back, even before meeting Margaret. He had more than once seen how the mill master being engrossed and lost in his fantasies whenever he saw Margaret. But still, something was off.

While he kept racking his brain for answers, he knew one thing that he must do: to somehow become aware of what it is that is nagging both the hopeful lovers. And then, pave the way to bring them together. Hale was Margaret’s father but still, his ignorance and susceptibility cannot be helped. He was slumped in guilt and grief for having lost his wife. Let him be.

But Margaret has a whole life to live ahead, and so does Thornton. It would only make sense if they lived, together.

Chapter Text

HAMPSHIRE TIMES

HELSTONE MUTINEER ONE OF THE WANTED ACCUSED
OF THE BELFAST SHIP REBELLION

LONDON, NOV. 21, 1846—----- HMS Belfast led by Captain Reid Hook, was captured by about forty maritime sailors, soldiers, and workers- revolt spread and led by Ex. lieutenant Frederick Hale, followed by several other mutineers…. The British Government declares punishment of the highest degree to those who led the uprising… Lieutenant Frederick Hale found out to be a resident of Helstone, Hampshire, son of rector Richard Hale… The names of the accused mutineers are as follows… A reward of 500 pounds to be awarded to anyone who claims to inform details of the whereabouts of the mutineers…

***

It was the fifth time Mrs. Thornton reread the parchment in the solitude of her room. Yet, it didn’t help to quell the shock she received every time she went through it. A hundred questions sprang up to her mind, along with answers and possibilities.
This one parchment put the entire situation to a full stop. The Hales were harboring a terribly disturbing family secret- a son who was now wanted for mutiny. Needless to say, a prize for his head. But what did this paper have to do with Jane? No, it must have to do with that dead fiance of hers; hadn’t she said that he was from the country, Mrs. Thornton recollected. And what’s more, the man had died near Outwood station and also during that scandalous incident of Miss Hale found embracing a young gentleman…

To be frank, Mrs. Thornton didn’t know what to do about all this anymore. But she let out a sigh of relief and realized that the man found with Miss Hale would be her brother. A part of her still chastised the woman for her naivety and blatant display of affection although it could be her own brother. Surely the woman didn’t understand how her actions would be scrutinized by society. Yet, now that there was strong evidence, she could only find herself empathizing with Miss Hale for her strength and love for her family.

It reminded her of her own times when she was a young widow; how difficult it was to maintain her composure and pride when the entire town throttled her due to her husband’s suicide. Had it not been her pride, strength and children, she would have perished long back.

The letter she had previously written was not yet delivered to Miss Hale. She still felt puzzled. She didn’t know if she should tell John what she found, though she knew she must. Her son was quite wounded and hurt for he had seen Miss Hale in the station with his own eyes. But her heart told her to wait impatiently before treading to disclose the secret to her son. She needed to first assure that Miss Hale still didn’t care for her son. Her motherly pride was still sore when she thought of how the proud woman tore her son’s proposal to pieces. But circumstances have clearly changed immensely, and so has much time gone by. What if the girl’s mind started to recognize John’s feelings and ready to reciprocate? Miss Hale was not a fickle woman; she would neither fall for any man who would bestow smiles and pleasures, nor was she someone who wouldn’t understand a person’s feelings. She was the most empathetic and down-to-earth creature she had ever seen.

Now came the question of confronting Miss Hale about her family secret. Should she let her know about the parchment and ask if the contents were true? Or should she leave it at that and just have her company and hospitality? After an hour of thinking, she decided to be direct in her dealing, for she had promised Mrs. Hale that she would be a firm guide to her daughter and not a tender companion. She would be open and get the entire mystery confirmed from Miss Hale.
So Mrs. Thornton decided to send the invite the first thing in the next morning. If she got even a small hint of affections from Miss Hale towards her son, she would be at peace. Whereas if the woman still rejects her son, she will even then go ahead and tell the secret of the Hales to her son, so that at least he would be relieved to know that it was not her lover, but her brother.

“How you have stirred up this entire town and our lives, woman!”, Mrs. Thornton muttered with an ironic grin before resigning to her bed.

***

The Latimers were a family involved in the field of banking and economics for generations. It was quite an easy success for the now Mr. Latimer to fetch his father’s and father-in-law’s position to create his life of wealth. He enjoyed playing with money, as he so often put it in words to people. He had the first degree associations and connections to call him worthy and intelligent when it comes to cash. He had the artful tact of convincing potential individuals to invest in bank loans and schemes. His only deed that he now invested his time and senses in was to secure a wealthy husband for his only daughter.

His daughter was not what she is today had he not put her into that Switzerland finishing school. She was quite ignorant and flighty, just like that friend of hers, (you know who!). Her education from the finishing school turned her into a furnished woman; well, he would have sued the school if she hadn’t, for all the money he squandered into that school!

Thankfully, his daughter was not gone unnoticed by several young gentlemen from his own field as well as from the masters. He was quite proud as a father as his daughter’s naive nature had already secured several men’s interests. If not anywhere else, Milton’s people were quite fixed in life’s patterns- and one such pattern was to secure a good partner, good in terms of wealth and position. Except for one man.
John Thornton, owner of Marlborough Mills.

This man was quite unlike any he had ever come across in his life. John Thornton was a fixed nail that wouldn’t fall off the wall without drawing blood from one’s fingers. But he knew the Thornton family’s weakest point very well.

Speculation.

Gambling.

Once upon a time, Augustus Latimer and George Thornton were quite the paradigm of friendship in the entire town. What’s more, he was George Thornton’s banker as well. All was going well, when Augustus had finally met Hannah Berkeley, quite the local beauty of then Milton. She had caught his eye as well as everyone’s from her return from Thetford, where she studied in a finishing school. But his affections were not even confessed to the woman when all of a sudden, his best friend’s engagement was announced. What put him to shock was the fact that George Thornton was about to be wed to Hannah. Augustus was clearly angered when he also got to know that it was a love match.

It didn’t take him much time to consider his best friend as his own enemy. While George Thornton remained unaware of his friend’s wounded feelings, Augustus Latimer was already plotting the friend turned foe’s downfall. Truth be told, it was he because of whom the mill master’s father lost almost every penny and ended up dodging a bullet to the head.

Now that was achieved some fifteen years ago, his abhorrence was still not languished. It kept burning within him, more so to see his friend’s lad rise to glory as the renowned master of Marlborough Mills. He went to dreadful limits to convince the now Mr. Thornton to invest in schemes and such to bring him down to knees like his father, but John Thornton was quite fixed in his ways and philosophy.

That’s when he recognized his daughter’s interests inclining towards the handsome mill master. He was about to distract his daughter’s attentions from Mr. Thornton, but then gave in to his daughter’s wishes. Since the art of tact was a skill of the Latimers, it was the father who then advised the young daughter to befriend Miss Thornton, to get closer to the Thornton family. Mr. Latimer decided to complete his revenge once and for all, by making his enemy’s son as his son-in-law.

But just as he expected, Mr. Thornton remained like the same fixed nail. His ploys to turn his client’s attention towards his daughter kept bouncing back to him. He knew that Thornton was not like other young men, who enjoyed flirtatious sensual pursuits. His attentions were gained by his mill, and thus, Mr. Latimer patiently resolved to move by Thornton’s way- by advising him with matters of loans and banking so that he could simultaneously fulfill his plans.

What’s more, ever since the Hales had come to Milton, his chances of succession in making his daughter a Thornton woman was getting nullified. He was quite enraged to witness the master slowly inclining towards Miss Hale. What enraged him more was the look of genteel love in the man’s eyes whenever his eyes caught Miss Hale. As Mr. Latimer was not anonymous to that feeling long back in his life, he was quite determined to secure him away from the Hales. His fierce determination in making the Thorntons his family was also enhanced by the constant teasing and bickering of other masters in the club. Whenever Thornton was absent, they mocked and guffawed about the mill master’s ignorance towards women, but how Miss Hale seems to have captured his senses.

Why couldn’t it be his daughter? This question bothered him several times. But the answer was quite plain- Mr. Thornton knew poverty well and was not one to incline towards wealth and status. It would be tough to put an idea into his head, unless it conceived on its own in his brain.

Miss Hale was quite beautiful, anyone with eyes would proclaim that. But so was his lovely daughter Ann! All that Miss Hale was only retained to her beauty; beauty to compensate for the lack of brains, what with her gallivanting the town like a stray cat and her charitable deeds to the downtrodden. Not to mention her recent scandal of having been seen in the arms of a man in the railway station. How can such an unsteady woman with such stubborn manners make a good wife? But Ann came up with beauty, innocence, naivety, honor, propriety, and most importantly a great deal of wealth. She will make a good compliant wife, only she should become the wife of Thornton if at all he ever gets married.
Nevertheless, now that Mr. Watson had come up with a new promising scheme, Mr. Latimer was fixed to make his plans a reality. He was aware of how risky Thornton’s business was at the moment. His mill was trudging on a thin line, and taking risks with money at such a time will put Thornton to a precarious position, and the Latimers to an enjoyable one.

Yes, speculation will bring Mr. Thornton to his downfall just like his father. Then, Mr. Latimer’s timely intervention with a proposal of marriage to his daughter will be the only way Thornton could save his position in society, not to mention the immense dowry he was ready to bestow on him for his only daughter.

Chapter Text

Mrs. Thornton woke up at her usual hour and set out about her daily chores. Yesterday was quite eventful, with her becoming aware of the Hales’ family secret. She felt somehow relieved though she didn’t know why. But a deeper understanding led her to realize that as much as she despised Miss Hale for her stubborn ways, she did find her similar to her own self, in more than one way.

What would have happened had she not come across the parchment? Maybe, this secret would have not come out at all. John had always told her that the Hales, especially Mr. Hale, was quite fond of him and saw him as his own son. She thought about why the man hadn’t sought John with his secret, but then agreed that since her son was a magistrate, they were quite right to think better not to disclose, even if John was trustworthy. More so, she appreciated Miss Hale inwardly for staying strong despite the insinuating accusations.

It was time to send the invite once and for all. She wanted to put an end to this as soon as possible. She wasn’t able to see her son becoming dreadful day by day because of Miss Hale. Either she should find a hint in the woman reciprocating her son’s love or she will get ahead with the truth to John and relieve him of his misery, although his heart would still be broken.

She sought Jane, the maid, who was quite without a trace of emotion concerning her actions of yesterday. She gave her the letter and asked to have it delivered. But Jane, who was quite similar to Fanny in every way, found out for whom the letter was- Miss Hale. She was aware that half of the town knew of her ridiculous scandal, although the gossip started to fade with newer tittle-tattle brewing up. And what’s more, Mrs. Thornton was quite annoyed to know that the woman had her arms around the master’s neck during the riot. It was Jane who blew up the issue during the strike. She had clearly heard what Miss Hale spoke to the rioters and knew very well that she had acted in such a manner to save the master. Yet with her twisting words, she assured Fanny as well as Mrs. Thornton to divert their annoyance towards Miss Hale.

She had nothing against Miss Hale, but a little gossip never hurt anybody, she surmised. She knew that the news should reach Miss Fanny, the now Mrs. Watson, if a little enjoyment is to be witnessed!

***

Mr. Thornton turned his entire mill office upside down but to no avail. His gloves were missing, and it was one of the few possessions he saved of his late father. As much as he had decided to never act like his father, he couldn’t hide his dismay to know that it had gone missing. His hands felt empty and yearned for it. He had asked the servants to search in the mill house, but even they couldn’t find it. He didn’t know where he had misplaced it.

Giving up, he sat down and read the letter he just received from Mr. Latimer. The letter was quick and brief, asking Mr. Thornton to meet him by eleven o’clock at his home.

Mr. Thornton, at first, didn’t realize anything sinister or different with the note. He had visited the banker several times at his home as well, though he preferred to discuss business at his office or the master’s club. But when did Mr. Latimer discuss business without poking his personal affairs in between? He was sly to include premeditated praises of his daughter Miss Latimer, whenever he called him to meet for business.

But the work was to be done. If not Mr. Latimer, he would have himself arranged a meeting although not at home, but at the club. He had to discuss his loans, repayments, dues, and formulate a finance plan for the coming months. It had to be done on time even if the mill was currently staying afloat. But the shrewd master in him screamed that his mill was not supposed to merely stay afloat but be fixed as stone on the ground, withstanding any pressure no matter what.

By eleven o’clock, Mr. Thornton reached the banker’s home. He wished to be quickly done with the meeting and secretly hoped to not be interfered by anyone, especially Miss Latimer. A tinge of fear prevailed within him when he thought about the conversation he had with his mother that day, when she had suggested her approval of the Latimers and pointed out how he was warming up with the banker’s daughter. Thankfully, now his mother discarded such notions. He fervently believed that the father was not harboring such an assumption now. He had never felt for the girl, not before meeting Marg– Miss Hale, not even after Miss Hale rejected his love.

He was not the one to disparage women no matter how they were. But that never stopped him from trying to understand a person’s character by their behavior. Truth be told, Miss Latimer was the exact version of his sister Fanny. The only difference is that she is less animated, less excited, a bit more careful in showing society that she’s naive and compliant. But it didn’t escape his notice how she treated women who were equal to hers, as well as how she treated people who were beneath her in position. Spoilt and vain, Miss Latimer was all beauty and grace that successfully hid a devious nature within.

The butler led him to Mr. Latimer’s study. By what he observed, it was clear that the womenfolk were absent, oh well, it was market day, and as far as his guess was correct, his sister would be touring the shops too, with her friend’s arm dangling in hers. “Very well, exactly what I expected. I will speak business and set off to the mill before they reach home. Not that they would come home anytime before the next two hours at least”, Mr. Thornton thought sarcastically to himself.

Mr. Latimer’s rude habits included making people wait before bestowing his banking sense to them. Today was no different. He came as patiently as he could, as if he hardly understood why the master was present.

“Ah, Thornton, there you are. I hope I didn’t make you wait for long, eh?”

“No, Mr. Latimer. I hope not.”

“Sit man. Now you might be aware of my reason to invite you.”

“Why sir, business of course. This meeting should have happened last week, but with the pending orders in the mill, I wasn’t able to schedule one. I apologize.”

“Don’t worry, Thornton. Is business precarious? The other masters are rounding up my feet asking for extensions and delays to make payments. But I didn’t pay heed as I was keen to offer you the extension indeed.”

“Thank you sir. I would gladly appreciate it. Though I hope you could show the same generosity towards the other masters too. The strike did disturb the cotton world.”

“Ha, Thornton! I cannot do the same for them, why should I? And it’s not generosity, man. It’s more like what I would do to my own family, wouldn’t I? Let the other masters hoard up every penny and repay. That would in fact help you to get ahead in business as well against your struggling competitors.”

Mr. Thornton grinned uncomfortably. What was with this man coming up with family and such words? And yes, business was not without competition, but he wasn’t ignorant of the other masters’ troubles at the moment. He didn’t let him bother much and got on with the next thing in conversation.

“Sir, I have also come to discuss the finance plan for the next term, if you so may help me…”

Before Thornton could even finish his words, Latimer spoke-

“Now Thornton, there’s something serious I would like to suggest. Which would solve all issues of yours.”

“I am all ears.”

“Why, your brother-in-law should have told you already, or your sister, at least. No?”

“No sir. I am afraid I am unaware of something important, I suppose?”

“Let me enlighten you. It’s a brilliant scheme Watson got hold of! A speculation scheme that is 100% set to bring up immense investments to keep our cash reserves from overflowing for the next five years at least!”

Mr. Thornton’s face changed to his customary scowl at the mention of that word. Speculation. It suddenly pushed in the unhappiest of memories he had tried hard to forget. It brought back those miserable times in his life when he had to accept his father was gone, leaving everything to him.

“Mr. Latimer, I have absolutely zero interest in it. I have and will never consider scheming an option. Not when my as well as my workers’ livelihoods are at stake. If the scheme fails, I might be still able to rise from scratch, though not like before. But my workers will face the worst, not that they are already living worthy lives. So no, thank you.”

Mr. Latimer was irked but he knew this was to come. He was dealing with Thornton not with any other loose-principled easygoing master as Slickson or Hamper. But he decided to not let go of the conversation.

“You call the lot as workers now, Thornton? And worthy lives, huh? They who were born so low to help you masters to rise? The ones you used to call hands? I know what, or shall I be bold to say who instills such philosophical notions in you man. But leave it. I shall give you the speculation agreement, at least go through it and then decide…”

“Mr. Latimer, I thank you for your concern. But no, I would not participate in the scheme. That’s my final decision, even if the scheme ends up becoming highly successful to you all.”

The banker flinched inwardly. He knew it wasn’t going to be easy, but still today Thornton was tougher than ever. Carefully, he drew his last card- his daughter.

“Well then, I can only commend your rigid sense of morals then. You have always been the good man amongst us eh? Fine then, but I have another significant proposal. One that would support your business as well as help you finally settle in life…”

Mr. Thornton stared in confusion for a minute or so. This man was wasting his time in vain. But he was desperate enough to hear his idea, hoping fervently if his proposition might help the mill in any way. He looked like an eager child looking at his father who had just come home with a new toy.

“Thornton, you look as if you cannot guess what I come to say. It wasn’t any secret, more so, should have happened quite before, I suppose. But anyway, the sooner the better. What I wish to tell you is that my dear Ann cares for you. You must be already aware! For you both were the talk of the town for weeks during your sister’s wedding. Many hinted at your sister’s wedding giving way into another one, why yours and Ann’s of course!"

Thornton’s scowl only deepened. His inner mind knew this would come some day or the other. While his mind was forming a disgust and anger at his suggestion, Mr. Latimer continued proudly.

“Ann is favoured and taken an interest by every man, not just in Milton but also from her relations in distinct parts of London. But ever since she returned to Milton after finishing her studies from one of the excellent schools of Swiss, she has taken an interest in you man. She is keen to become your wife, mind you, she is already a good friend of your dear sister and your mother as well. What’s more, the match will bring you a great amount of dowry and position, enough to secure Marlborough Mills for years to come. And needless to say, you have always had my support and now that you become my daughter’s husband, you will always have my favour more so than ever.”

“Are you done speaking, sir?”

Now it was Mr. Latimer’s turn to scowl. But he didn’t wish to let his annoyance take hold only to regret later.

“Thornton, do you suggest that you never cared for Ann? Of course you would, for such a refined woman that she is, unlike a few who gallivant like orphans and let their foolish stubbornness spoil their reputation! Ann will be a compliant wife, not one who would speak against a word that you utter!”

Mr. Thornton was boiling with rage when he realized who Mr. Latimer was referring to. Comparing Ann Latimer with Margaret Hale was quite meaningless; as comparing earth with the Venus. Yes, she cares for someone else now and has gone to a witless extent to guard him from harm, not to forget her lies with regards to Leonards’ case. But yet, it enraged him for the audacity of the man to disrespect one woman in order to praise his daughter in front of him. Did the man understand that he was actually trading his own daughter like an object?

“Sir, I very well understand who it is you refer to, but let me assure you not to fall for ignorant and misinformed gossips. What’s more, I respect Miss Latimer as much as the women in my life, but don’t see her beyond my acquaintance’s daughter”.

“Well, don’t see it that way, then. I know you aren’t a man who gives in to life’s pleasures, no you always held business first in your mind and heart. Think of it. Think like a businessman with a shrewd business sense, as you often speak of. Ann will bring you a huge dowry, and what’s more I will invest more in the mill. Not to forget, I have several connections in the commercial sector, who can become your connections as well…”

“You have spoken too much, Mr. Latimer. I am firm in my decision- both in speculation as well as your proposal.”

Mr. Latimer realized that he was losing the feud. His fury arrested his senses before he let it seethe in him. He bellowed loudly-

“Have you become attached to that southern lass everyone is gossiping about? Why, has she fooled you into love just as she has done with another man? Are you bound to become attached to her for her beauty so much that her impure actions make you blind? Come now Thornton, why would you let yourself be compromised with a fallen woman who has already compromised herself, god knows with how many?”

Mr. Thornton’s fists were clasped tight, he felt his fingernails raking his skin. He wanted to punch the man right in his mouth for all his detestable words about Margaret. How dare he suggest that he compromised Margaret’s honor! Fresh indignation surged through him, which only increased more so to see the horrible man grin watching his fury.

He bolstered across the room and stood straight in front of the banker. His height and fury, now frightened Mr. Latimer, but he held on to his posture. He wanted to warn the man for speaking ill of Miss Hale, but thought he should not. Her reputation was already fickle, and if he spoke in her favour now, more rumours would follow if this sick man chose to degrade her character more in society. He breathed and uttered the words with a dangerous edge-

“I will not enter a marriage that is more like a business proposition and less like one made of respect and love from both sides. That’s all there is to it.”

He rushed out of the room and the house before his anger took hold of him again.

He walked the streets like a furious lion which had come out of its cage after so long. The people as usual were afraid and frightened. They dare not come in his way, as they started to make way for him even before he came near to them.

“Oh Margaret, my love, look at what you have brought upon yourself! To hear such abominable words and yet to not be able to shut them from speaking against your character! You shall never know what agony I face, and yet my love for you refuses to diminish.”

He almost came to a sudden halt to see a familiar figure standing in front of a shop. Miss Hale along with her friend Mary. But his breath hitched a little when he saw three other women surrounding her.

All he could do was to stand unnoticed and watch the uncomfortable conversation from a safe distance.

***

“A letter to you from the Mrs. Thornton”, said Dixon with an indifference to Margaret.

She took the letter from Dixon while her mind was already racing up and down for what she owed the missive. Her last conversation with Mrs. Thornton was equally strained as the one she had with her son. Did Mr. Thornton narrate the events to his mother and request her once again to counsel Margaret of her folly? Or was the gossip still flaring through the tittle-tattle circles of Milton?

She read the letter with anxiety but was grateful to find it concise. It was not too approachable, but asked her if she can visit Mrs. Thornton for tea the coming weekend.

“Why not? For all I had said to hurt your son and of how low you both think of me, a hot cup of tea will indeed be a good turn to the events.” Margaret mused sarcastically. But she was still grateful for the woman, for trying to get out of their strained conversation and inviting her to the mill house despite their arguments.

Her pride suggested not to go, but she knew that it would be disrespecting her. After all, it was her mother who had secured Mrs. Thornton’s promise to be a stern guide to her daughter in times of crisis. She thought for a while about it- her mother could have written a letter or asked Dixon to, addressing Aunt Shaw to take care of her daughter after she passed away. But no, such a thought didn’t seem to have entered her mind at all. She recalled Dixon telling her that the mistress told Mrs. Thornton to act as her guide, now that she seems to be fixed in Milton… Does that mean her mother had a faint, even the slightest idea that her daughter’s future would be spent in Milton?

Margaret quickly erased the thought. It was futile to think so, no matter how much her heart beamed to trust her intuitions. She fetched the letter to her room and informed her father about the invitation.

“That’s good to hear, my dear. Surely, you must go! She is a firm lady but not without empathy and kindness. I believe it will do you good, child.”

“Yes papa, I will go.”

“Very well, my dear. And I hope John will be able to keep his visit tomorrow here as well. I know he must be busy, yet he had given word that he would come tomorrow. Let’s hope he does.”

While Mr. Hale would be clearly happy to even have his pupil come to his home daily, Margaret was worried. The idea of meeting him just three days after his humiliating words stifled her with the utmost discomfort. The hurt was still fresh and gnawing. She then recollected that she had to visit the drapers for curtains. “I would rather visit the draper’s shop tomorrow evening so in that way, I will save us both from any awkwardness”, she muttered to herself.

Just then, Mr. Hale spoke-

“Dear, today Bell would be joining us, won’t he?”

“Yes papa, he said so yesterday. I suppose by evening he will join us.”

“Well, it will be quite a good day then. I and John will be discussing Aristotle and Plato tomorrow, and about a rather interesting concept. Truth and how significant it is in philosophy. Bell would be quite interested to have a discussion on this one. He and John will be at odds! I wish you could attend with us as well dear. Mr. Thornton would like it for sure, don’t you think Margaret?”

There, it was! Her chance of escape was snatched. She was well aware that her father might be sensing something odd and too formal going on between the master and the daughter. And with Mr. Bell’s added intervention, she was sure to get into a mess. She couldn’t bring up the draper’s excuse without getting caught. She let out a sigh of defeat, and assured him that she would attend.

That meant, she would have to visit the draper’s shop today. Dixon had work to do, so that left Mary and her free for a while. Both of them exited the home as they walked steadily towards the market street.

“Mary, how’s Tom now? Did you apply the medicine and oil?”

“Aye, yes miss. He’s well now. Already started playin’ with the neighborhood lads.”

“That’s good to know. I actually got to know he’s quite interested in books. Children’s fairy tales and such. Is it true?”

“Yes miss. The master was kind enoug’ to get him a few story books and alphabet books. He plays all day but gets his nose deep into them at night! Still difficult for him to pronounce words, but the master sometimes helps him to read.”

This surprised Margaret and made her happy. Not that Mr. Thornton was unkind towards children, but the fact that he himself helped Tom Boucher read and study warmed her heart. It hurt her heart once again how she had misunderstood and cast harsh claims on him during his proposal.

They had reached the draper's shop and just when they were about to enter the store, a shrill voice reached their ears.

“Miss Hale!”

When both the women turned back their faces fell. Yet they regained composure for civility sake to see a blooming Mrs. Watson, Miss Latimer, and the mother Mrs. Latimer on the opposite side of the road.

While Mrs. Watson was as usual being herself, flighty and with a dozen bags in her hand, the Latimer women were clearly displeased to see Margaret. Mrs. Watson hurried towards Margaret with a glowing smile, while the other two reluctantly came behind her with a tight smile etched in their faces.

“Mrs. Watson, Miss Latimer and Mrs. Latimer, glad to meet you. You have come shopping, I suppose.” Margaret started the conversation, intending to quickly finish it and get away from the women.

“Ah, yes Miss Hale, though I, sorry, we don’t buy from this particular shop you were just about to enter. This store’s tastes are quite plain for us, you see.” Fanny responded with a grin and proud air. The Latimers shared a sly grin with each other.

Mrs. Latimer was equally aware of the proud and snobbish southern lady’s spoiling reputation and disastrous deeds of charity. More so, she took an edge towards her when she came to know of Mr. Thornton’s growing interest in this vain and improper woman. She realized then and there to make hay while the sun shines, that is, to insult the woman right in front of her own maid as well as Fanny.

“Well Miss Hale, nice to meet you. I am quite surprised how you managed to come shopping for draperies given the recent turn of events that reached my ears.”

Margaret was baffled when her mind registered Mrs. Latimer’s words. Did she mean her mother’s death? Or did she rather insinuate the misinformed scandal of the Outwood station? She saw the two friends smiling to each other, and she quickly understood the haughty woman meant the latter.

Mary was quite angered with what the horrid woman had just uttered. She longed to inform their snooty faces that Miss Margaret was with her relative that supposed night, but decided not to. As for Margaret, she found it difficult to muster her pride and strength to give a befitting answer to the horrible woman.

It was Mary who spoke then-

“Miss Margaret, we would be rather late. Dixon had asked us to come home soon…”

But Mrs. Latimer was not the one to give up so easily now that she had just started.

“Ah what’s the hurry, lass? Your Miss Hale can surely devote some time to us women as well. Can’t she? Or is she busy enough to oblige anyone at the moment?”

That was enough to strike Margaret’s wounded pride. Mrs. Watson suddenly started to become uncomfortable, clearly wishing to be whisked away to home. Yet Miss Latimer’s attitude suggested that she was enjoying the heated barbs her mother had just thrown at Miss Hale.

“Excuse me, Mrs. Latimer, but have I done something to offend you? If not, then I would rather get along with my helpmate at the store”. She suggested with her grace and air, just as she turned towards the shop holding Mary’s arm.

“Offend us, Miss Hale? Why, yes of course, for we were quite stunned by your degraded act in Outwood. This town might have forgotten it with the arrival of the next set of gossips, but not us! We did think to include in our prestigious circles even if you had very little in common with high-bred women like us.”

Mary felt to box the woman’s ears for her terrible words to her friend, her innocent friend. Margaret had started to turn pale with humiliation, tears collecting in her eyes, and struggling to keep her emotions in control. Mary pressed her arm tight to help her stop collapsing right then and there in the street. That indeed helped Margaret to get back her senses from the insinuated remarks.

“Mrs. Latimer, you absolutely have no right to comment on affairs which you are hardly aware of. You would much rather not form opinions without having any idea of how things are. And in question of including me in your so-called prestigious circles, let me assure you that I hardly had any interest to become a part of it, in the first place. Not that you ever tried to have one hospitable conversation with me on any occasion.”

Miss Latimer perked herself up on hearing her rival speak in such a manner to her mother. Mrs. Watson’s jaw was hanging in the air.

“There, mother. What’s to be done with such people who are clearly not bothered about their reputation in society. It would hurt our status more to be seen with such a disgraceful person.”

“Yes dear, we better move away from here.”

With that, the women headed towards the opposite side of the street. Fanny turned back to look at Margaret with a look of pity but brushed it off immediately to be not noticed by the Latimers.

Margaret stood speechless, eyes brimming. Her face had turned red as her lips. Mary was concerned about her friend who looked as if she would collapse on the storefront anytime and grieve. But Margaret was quick enough to bounce back to her confident self.

“Miss Margaret, ‘em creatures will never understand ye kindness and actions. Please don’ let ‘em bother you. We can go home if ye wish. I will come and collect the draperies meself later.”

“No Mary, I would rather not let our work stop because of their foolish interpretations. Let them think what they wish to, for they never tried to like me, only wished to find fault. Now that they have got their fill, they will keep talking, till their mouths ache. Let’s get in the store”.

But they were stopped by Mrs. Latimer once again. Margaret was enraged to the core, and Mary wanted to whisk Margaret away from the daredevil.

“Before you go gallivanting, one more word. If you hadn’t known, then let me inform you that we Latimers do have a good connection with the Thorntons, which the entire Milton hopes to see turning into a much stronger bond, if I may so hope you understand what I mean. Not that you have a chance if you think you do, for the Thorntons are highly reputable in the town and would not let their family pollute their existence with such a poor alliance. So don’t sully our names as you did yours”.

That was enough to prick Margaret’s self-respect. She had suspected a budding connection between Mr. Thornton and Miss Latimer, but to be so disrespected by a woman who was hardly her acquaintance injured her to the core.

“Madam, if I might be so bold, let me tell you that you need not have fear if you are so confident of such a connection. Be assured that I am not the one to ensnare people for a better living and pretentious status in society”.

Mrs. Latimer’s doubts were not subsided. Now that the vain woman had started to speak directly, she decided to be equally open and resolve her fears for once and for all.

“Half of the town is aware that you tried to ensnare Mr. Thornton during the riot. Surely, you must have received an unwilling proposal of marriage from him to restore your honor for propriety’s sake?”

“Well judged, madam. Yes, I did, but I hardly assume it was unwilling from Mr. Thornton’s part”.

Mary and Mrs. Latimer gaped in shock. The former was enjoying Miss Margaret’s confident rebuke but the latter was frustrated.

“Well it doesn’t matter for surely it seems to have come to nothing. You must have rejected him for all your charitable ideas against Milton’s hardworking lot of masters!”

“Yes, I rejected. Speaking of my ideas against Milton, be convinced that my opinions have now raised greatly towards this town, quite the positive.”

“This city hardly cares for your opinions, madame! Now that you assure me of rejecting, do assure me that your response will be the same in future as well, if at all once again you receive such a proposal.”

Now Margaret Hale, for all the vigorous and witty woman that she was, decided to give back a fitting answer to all the accusations this woman put on her.

“I will assure you of no such thing! Really Mrs. Latimer, whatever happens between Mr. Thornton and I, stay within us. You need not bother at all, for you are confident enough that the town expects both your families to join as one! Goodbye.”

She fled into the store with Mary in tow. While Margaret was unaware of being watched, Mary was quick enough to catch the master standing in a distance, watching his lady love intently.

Mrs. Latimer was irritated and felt like a fool. She realized her folly in having gone too steadfast. If her husband came to know of such a conversation, he would be angry. She had been overconfident and too liberal with her words, keeping in mind that there was still nothing much between her daughter and the mill master. She cannot add more to the gossip of Miss Hale, for she would somehow get caught as well for spreading rumours concerning them and the Thorntons. That will affect her daughter Ann’s name in society as well.

Dejected, she joined her daughter and her friend in the store at the opposite side of the street.

Mr. Thornton, though unable to make a word of what the women spoke, was at least quite sure to judge that the conversation was far from civil. He saw Miss Hale fumbling at first, trying to regain herself, and in the next moment speaking with her usual stylish confidence, yet with a tinge of hurt in her face.

If his judgments were true as he was sure they were, Margaret was being disrespected by the Latimer women. Fanny was one who gossiped extensively but was not confident enough to disrespect someone right on their face.

He decided to know what happened outside the draper’s shop from Mary soon, but then realized his sister would herself go home right away to blabber about it all to their mother. Fair enough.

Chapter Text

Mr. Thornton quickly reached home to be the first one to hear Fanny’s prattling. It had been ten minutes since he kept pacing the room like a cat. Mrs. Thornton gave him a quizzical look, only to find him walking and contemplating something.

“So, how was the meeting with Mr. Latimer?”

Mr. Thornton scowled. His mother was baffled and feared something was wrong.

“Not at all, not at all, what I had expected.”

“Tell me, John”.

“That idiot man! Mother, I wonder why everyone around me has to deceive me! He knew that the mill was just a few steps away from potential ruin. Yet, he pretended to do what he could only to have me as his puppet”.

Mrs. Thornton listened keenly. She kept aside her sewing.

“Mother, I had gone to request an extension as I had already told you. He was quite ready to do so too, saying that I am quite significant for him than the other masters. What I didn’t expect was his suggestion to join a speculation! That Watson has come up with a scheme. He wants me to invest in it and promises good returns that will keep all of us wealthy for the coming years.”

The last word Mrs. Thornton wished to hear in her life was speculation. Her anxiety and disappointment grew thickly, clouding her face. No wonder John was angry.

“And he knew well I would never agree to such immorality. What he offered next made me the most angry, mother”.

“What did he say?”, asked Mrs. Thornton eagerly.

“To marry his daughter. To accept her daughter as well as the hefty dowry she would bring so that the mill can be safe from ruin”.

Mrs. Thornton knew such a discussion would come some day. The Latimers and almost every family in Milton which had a suitable unwed daughter kept the acquaintance of the Thorntons’ for the sake of ensnaring her son under their whim. She took pride in this fact but now, she became quite weary of it.

“I see. This is a surprise but at the same time, it isn’t. I dare not ask what you would have said in return.”

“Obviously, mother. And he went on to insult Miss Hale as well. Sick man. Says that he is ready to give his daughter even if I might have had some attachment with Miss Hale!”

Mrs. Thornton was unhappy hearing the banker having commented on her son and Miss Hale together. She again convinced herself that before Miss Hale’s gossips start gravely affecting her son as well, something had to be done. Soon.

“That’s disgusting indeed. How dare that banker think you as low as that! Yet I am not surprised to know what this town is thinking of the poor woman”.

Poor woman? Miss Hale was of course dear to him despite her faults, but to hear his mother showing sympathy towards her was quite out of the blue. Yet he didn’t question.

“Wait till you get to hear what Fanny has to say mother.”

“Fanny is anyway about to come today. She has gone shopping to buy draperies, when her home is already full of those garish wares. But I don’t understand what you mean.”

Just then, the mother and son heard a loud bustle and rustle of skirts following hurriedly through the corridor. Both of them tried to act natural, trying to show that the visit was unexpected.

Fanny entered with an impatient air, almost gasping. Jane followed her holding several bags of draperies.

“Mother, oh Johnny, you too here. Well you must be, for I can’t narrate the same thing twice! You will be shocked to know who I happened to see today. Miss Hale, of course!”

“Continue Fanny, we are all ears”, said Mrs. Thornton, picking up her sewing once again with a sigh.

“So I, Ann and her mother went shopping for draperies as the new season is about to come. We were just about to enter Grimsby’s store, when I saw Miss Hale with that maid of hers, that daughter of the union leader about to enter a store. I immediately called out to her. The Latimers cast a low look on her, not that she doesn’t deserve it for her outrageous display at Outwood…”

Mr. Thornton was annoyed. “Get out with it Fanny. Ain’t no time have I for your big tales.” He said impatiently yet with a stare.

“There, you see mother. He will never accept her impropriety! Well anyway, we went towards her. We greeted each other and quite unexpectedly, Mrs. Latimer indirectly insulted Miss Hale saying that she didn’t expect her to come out shopping after her misfortune. Miss Hale was confused and asked what she meant. And Mrs. Latimer went on to humiliate her, again none that she doesn’t deserve.” She cast a winning look at her brother, who was staring at her dangerously.

“And just then, Miss Hale, with no shame at all, told Mrs. Latimer to mind her business and not interfere in affairs she hardly has any idea of! How confident and full of pretense she is! Doesn’t care a fig about how her character appears in society. And to think of her as a woman of prestige having hailed from London!”

Mrs. Thornton cast her son a questioning look only to see him emotionless. She understood that her son was already aware of what Fanny had come to gossip about.

“Ann was quite angered yet maintained her poise as she should! Not like Miss Hale to speak high and above! Poor Ann was sad to hear her mother being defied, when all that she tried was to advise Miss Hale of her impropriety!”

Mrs. Thornton spoke next. “Why would she want to advise Miss Hale when you three had gone to shop for your drapery collection? You should have kept your distance and entered the store instead of giving way to such an ill conversation”.

“And why would I not, mother? She is quite proud of herself, thinking she is right in everything. You too had gone to counsel her of her indecent actions, hadn’t you? Also, I just found out that you have invited her for tea as well!”

“Yes, but at least I acted on behalf of my promise to her mother, Fanny. Ann Latimer and her mother hardly tried to make Miss Hale’s acquaintance. They don’t have any right to advise her of her actions. And yes, I did invite her to keep company as she might be in need of it. Whatever Miss Hale does, she is the sole responsibility towards it, not that she does things on an impulse and excitement. She will wade through her troubles well if there’s any chance of her being in the right. That’s all”.

Mrs. Thornton picked up her sewing and exited the sitting room. Both brother and sister sat jaw-dropped hearing their mother’s words in mild support of Miss Hale.

Fanny broke the silence. “What has come to mother? She, the one who loathed the southerner?”

“Are you done, Fanny? If yes, then you could continue marching to your home with your wares.”

“Yes obviously, I can’t risk them getting spoiled with your mill dirt! But tell me, am I to congratulate you brother?”, asked Fanny with a wink.

“Congratulate me? Why? For my mill trudging towards ruin?”

“Nay, but for receiving a proposal to marry Ann! She’s the best match for you, has feelings for you more than that parson’s daughter ever shall! She will not be interested in the likes of you and now that the mill is going under, she will not attach herself to you. She has shown her impropriety too, so why should you feign hopes? But Ann will put an end to all of the mill’s troubles too, and I shall be happy to have my dearest friend as my sister-in-law…”

His sister’s words were not surprising, for she always spoke without caring for others feelings. But when she said that Miss Hale will never care for him, his heart broke, yet once again. That Miss Hale, his Margaret, would not even consider him anymore as he is about to return to his old life scared him. But what’s the use? She already has a lover to dote on her, a young handsome lover unlike the coarse and shrewd man that he was…

“Thank you Fanny, but I will not marry just anyone for you to have your friend close. My mind is set against matrimony, and as for the mill, you never showed care. So why now?”

He left for the mill, leaving his sister irritated to the core.

Also, now he realized that the Latimers had planned it all together! The stupid father must have purposely invited him to meet while his wife and daughter were away. Well done. But no matter what, Mr. Thornton decided that he wouldn’t fall for such a plan. Neither speculation nor the Latimers will be needed to save him from misery. His downfall will be his own to bear, and he will fight till the last day of the mill’s functioning. Then he would quit his field with dignity, even if he will have to start again from the ground.

But now, he would go and meet Mr. Bell. Maybe, the cunning landowner will assist.

***

Margaret and Mary quickly reached home after the dreadful event of the day. Both women hardly spoke to each other. Mary was still angered by the audacity of the silly woman for hurting her friend’s actions. But she was overjoyed to hear her give a fit response to the lady in return. Also, she didn’t entirely assure the woman that there wasn’t anything between her and Mr. Thornton, hadn’t she? Mary felt happy to see the Miltonian side of Miss Margaret coming to the surface.

As for Margaret, she barely knew what to think. Her mind was blank as a slate. She had gone beyond the limit and humiliated the Latimers, not that they were civil with her. They had every right to avoid including her in their circles. But they had no right to disparage her in such a manner, especially for something that she was completely innocent about.

But what on earth possessed her to speak about Mr. Thornton in such a manner? To say that whatever happened between them would stay between them! And to not promise the foolish lady to not fall for him if he proposes to her again! It was spontaneous, but still, Margaret wasn’t able to regret what she had said.

Another part of her chastised her stubborn self. Why would Mrs. Latimer so openly come to her suggesting a hopeful attachment between her daughter and Mr. Thornton? That obviously meant that her doubts were correct indeed. Hadn’t she seen how Ann Latimer possessively claimed Mr. Thornton’s arm during his sister’s wedding? He was quite neutral at that time, but that didn’t matter as he was always an introvert and hardly showed his emotions. He was too formal and private a person. That shouldn’t stop him from getting attached to the beautiful Miss Latimer. It was only right that he wed her, as it would also help his business. Margaret knew very well that marriages occurred on part of social status and position too. Mr. Thornton being a famous mill master would go in that way too, undoubtedly, after she rejected him.

Margaret locked herself in her room. She was distraught by heated discussion which further pushed her to lament.

She wished to explain to Mr. Thornton who she was with that night at the station. But would that matter anymore now? Even if she told the truth, will he renew his feelings for her? Margaret knew strongly that Mr. Thornton was unlike any other; he was not the one to speak until he firmly believed in what he thought. The distance between them had started to increase every single day. Now it would be only prudent to stay quiet and hope her fears don’t turn for the worst.

She wished she had declined her father’s offer to attend the discussion tomorrow. She should have politely said that she had work to do and went to the store then. But what’s done is done.

***

Mr. Bell was quite bored in his hotel room. He wished he had accepted the invitation offered by the Hales to stay at Crampton. He declined thinking his hotel stay would keep him near to his business and properties. But all day and night, he was amidst agreements, invoices, and such.It only made him bored and annoyed. More so, he yet had to do something concerning his goddaughter and the grouchy Thornton.

He thought of the devil and in came he!

“Ah, Thornton! Hardly expected to see you. I was quite bored as such, so your mill issues might keep me occupied.”

“My mill issues aren’t like your romance classics to keep you so engrossed. But yes, I have come here to speak about something important.”

“Take your seat and go ahead”.

“Thank you”. Mr. Thornton was quite agitated and his pride poked in having come to plead to his landowner for time to pay the dues. He had never before asked for an extension, but now he had to since in a day or two, the idiot banker will issue a notice asking him to pay his loans immediately.

On the other hand, Mr. Bell assumed that Thornton might have come to speak something about the Hales, more so about Margaret. Both men had conversed before of Richard’s guilt and grief, his sensitive nature to overlook troubles at hand. He expected the mill master to finally pick up the topic concerning him and Margaret.

“I will not stir the matter and speak straightforward…”

“As you are known for, Thornton. I know you are here for help, if I am right. Tell me.”

Mr. Bell’s pliant nature, which was quite unusual as the man always teased and plotted, helped Mr. Thornton to open up the issue at hand.

“I have come to ask if you can offer an extension in the payment of the dues. Three months time. The mill still has some orders to go with, and I give my word to pay you in the next term”.

Mr. Bell’s assumptions were thrashed. But then, it was only foolish of him to hope the man in front of him would speak about anything else other than his so-called wife- his mill. He knew that business was unstable currently, and only thought Thornton could come out of it somehow, as he always did.

“Well yes, don’t worry about it. Your request is granted. I gathered that business is quite at risk right now, what with the strike and all. But yet, I thought you will be safe from the consequences.”

“Yes, you are right. The mill is quite unsafe now, just a hair’s distance from closure.”

“You will come out of the downs, Thornton. Moreover, I don’t give help if I cannot receive the same from others.”

Mr. Thornton was confused by this response. What help might this rich old wealthy godfather need from him?

“Don’t overthink and ask what help I want from you”.

“What help do you want from a failing master, my landlord?

“Haha, how good it feels to hear you speak so. Well, it’s not a help as such but I want you to confess your feelings. Your feelings for my goddaughter, whatever it is that is holding you and Margaret back from happiness”.

Mr. Thornton flinched. Why does everything spiral back to her? Why can’t he keep himself away from her no matter how hard he tried? It was no surprise however that the old godfather asked such a question. He was wise, wiser, and the wisest of Milton if not cunning and sly as well.

“Absolutely nothing, if I might say so. But yes, I was rejected. It was expected, as someone as genteel as her will not have a tradesman as me.”

“When did you make your proposal?”

“After the strike.”

“Ah, so I was right! I was always right!”

“Right about what? That I am fit to be rejected by her?”, Mr. Thornton asked with a scowl.

“Nay, man. I was right about the stone. So it was Margaret who was hit by the stone while she tried protecting you from harm. Wasn’t she? Only she would be bold enough to go between a mob to save a grumpy cat!”

“I ain’t a grumpy cat and more so, you are right in your assumptions. As usual. I hope I have confessed enough. I take my leave.”

“Why the haste? You haven’t answered me properly. It was quite long back that you proposed and were rejected. Her opinions of you, I swear cannot be the same as then. Have you tried knowing what her current stance is?”

“No. I need not. For I know she will not have me as her husband.”

“And what woman will steal secret glances from a man if she isn’t in love with him? Come now, Thornton, you and I know very well that both of you are meant to be one. Both of you let your pride come in between instead of talking openly…”

“I can’t speak more about it. I am done. Let me tell you that it is a great help that you have done to me. I also know that it was you who recommended me to the Bartley’s. They have become my client now. I am grateful to you.”

Mr. Bell decided not to press the matter further. The mill master was clearly frustrated with problems at the mill.

“Don’t be. I know your skill and work. I will need to draw some papers though which require your and my attention. We can meet at Crampton tomorrow and discuss there itself.”

“Crampton? Oh, yes. Well, see you tomorrow then”.

Mr. Bell noticed the light flashing through Thornton’s face- like a glimmer of excitement and hope. He saw him walking out and hoped for some more revelation tomorrow at Crampton on what keeps both lovers apart.

***

Mary finished her chores at Crampton. She ate her lunch with Dixon and Margaret. She hardly ate together with people other than her father and now, the Boucher children. But now, this new routine was loved by her. After lunch, she bid Margaret goodbye and headed to the mill. She had to make preparations for the day’s supper at the canteen.

Just when she reached the mill, Mr. Thornton was himself coming back from his meeting with Mr. Bell. He was discussing with Higgins about the orders and the cotton bales in the storeroom. Both men saw Mary walking towards the mill. Mr. Thornton decided to question her about the conversation they had with the Latimers. He asked himself if he should directly interfere and ask, but he knew he must. Miss Hale would have been surely humiliated by the two women.

“Higgins, mind if I talk to Mary about something important? You can come too”.

“Ye master, there she is”.

He gathered his courage and tried to be direct yet soft in his approach, lest he scared the poor girl.

“Mary, coming from Crampton, I suppose”.

Mary, who was quite afraid of Mr. Thornton’s presence, even if they hardly spoke a word, shrieked in surprise before answering. She saw her father standing next to the master. He was not as intimidating as before, he looked exhausted yet focused.

“Talk lass, he won’t bite your head off”, Higgins teased.

“Good noon, master, yes, I am learnin’ much from Miss Margaret and Dixon. Now going to the canteen to prepare the supper”.

“Well I hope it does you good. Everyone appreciates your cooking and you make your father proud.”

Mary blushed softly. She was embarrassed and shy all at once. She suddenly thought if she should inform him of what happened today at the shop, but was afraid of annoying him by interfering. She had seen him standing at a distance staring at Miss Hale, though.

“Thank you master. The hands are grateful to ye. All credit goes to ye kindness”.

“No mention, Mary. Now if I am not so privy, I wish to ask what Mrs. Latimer and Miss Latimer conversed with Marg– Miss Hale today at the drapers’ street.”

Higgins was surprised. He knew that the Latimers were too nosy on others' affairs and the most unkind of them all.

“Mind if I say the truth, master? Even if they your connections?”, Mary asked meekly.

“I will not stand away from the truth no matter who is or isn’t my connection. Go on, tell me what happened. I know those women might not have said one good word to Miss Hale”.

“Ye, that’s true. So I and Miss Margaret went to the drapers, stopped by ye sister Mrs. Watson. She came to us with her friends, the Latimers. Ye sister talk’d well, but the mother Latimer started to indirectly quip Miss Margaret. She in turn hit back with her words, sharp as it is. The women were shocked and moved away”.

“I knew this much. My sister was kind enough to rush back home immediately to convey all this to me and her mother. What happened next?”

“They moved away and Miss Margaret was close to cryin’. She somehow gained courage but then again stopped by Mrs. Latimer! That woman then talked about ye.”

“Me? What did she say?”

In one go, Mary narrated everything that happened-
“Said her to be away from ye, now that you and they gon’ be family soon or later. But then went ahead and asked Miss Margaret if ye ever asked for her hand. Miss Hale was angry and said the truth… said yes. The woman was shocked, mouth wide open. She asked Miss Margaret to promise not to accept ye ever in life if ye ever go to her back”.

Mr. Thornton was wide-eyed with shock. How stupid the woman was to already decide such an intimate connection between him and his daughter! He feared now more than ever that Margaret would believe that he was forming an attachment with Miss. Latimer. Moreover, he knew that Margaret would have boldly promised the woman back since she didn’t love him at all, and would never accept him. Both Higgins and his daughter stared at the thinking master.

It was Higgins who spoke- “Well, she must have promised the same. End of story, isn’t it lass?”

“Nay da’ how will she? She instead threw the woman her haughtiest look and said that she will never make such a promise ever! The woman turned red as a tomato and gaped at her. Miss Margaret said whatever happens between ye and her will stay with ye and her. She asked the woman why the hell she so afraid of her if she so confident about her daughter and ye!”

Higgins laughed a satisfying guffaw. He knew that Miss Margaret was a staunch woman, no less of Thornton himself. Maybe more proud and strong in certain ways than him. But this amused him to the core. Mary giggled as well before walking towards the canteen.

And Mr. Thornton! He stood as still as Michelangelo’s David.

“What did I just hear?”, he asked himself, loud enough for Higgins to hear.

Higgins stood in silence. He waited for the master to respond. But he stood unmoved, allowing Mary's words wash through his brain and heart.

“Thornton”, Higgins spoke, “ye have got the answer ye were seeking all this while. That’s all I shall say”. And he went away to inspect the storeroom.

Mr. Thornton was still stunned. He wanted to laugh loudly as he could. This was the most “Margaretly” Margaret can ever be. How mirthful yet witty she had been! Her words seemed somehow speaking of them as together, her speaking as if she was his, and it’s their business- good or bad, not others to poke their noses at.

Confusion and uncertainty, however, washed through him again the next minute. But why? Why would she behave so? Was he to hope again? Not that he had stopped loving her, no, if at all anything else, he was quite sure that his love has only increased along with his agony, however. Or was he to take this at face value? Margaret could have simply retorted to safeguard her injured pride and give a taste of the same medicine to the Latimers themselves.

He was confused more than ever. Yet, he found the entire situation humorous. Miss Hale was not one to mess with for sure!

Chapter Text

Dixon was returning to Crampton after buying groceries. Ever since Mary had started to assist her in running the household, Dixon started to feel much better. She felt carefree and more focused. Although she was quite sceptical of Higgins’ daughter, she realized that the girl was ten times better than Miss Margaret herself! She never argued back, neither questioned everything she was told; something which Margaret was known for, undoubtedly. She was quick to grasp the details, learnt to cook quite a few dishes, and overall proved to be a good helpmate.

Miss Margaret and Mary came back a little late from the drapers’ shop even after she had told them to be home on time. When the two women had returned, she noticed that Margaret was quite out of sorts. But this was becoming common each and every day. At first, she thought that the daughter was still going through her poor mother’s death. But now, she observed that the young woman was restless and fidgety. Something was bothering her. Sadly, she had none to confide, the master was himself handling his grief and was extremely sensitive. As for friends, she seldom had any.

She gave her the letter to Mrs. Thornton and asked to make sure it was delivered. Dixon recollected that a month ago, both women had got into a heated argument about something, though she didn’t know the details. And now, Miss Margaret was about to visit the dragon in her den, the coming saturday. She didn’t know what to expect from the visit, but her heart told her that it might do Miss Margaret good. Maybe the woman wants to keep up to her promise given to her mistress before death.

While she was busy in her thoughts, she was seen by Mr. Bell. He was invited for dinner at Crampton. His monotony in his empty stark hotel room pushed him to be closer to his friend and goddaughter. Now that he saw Dixon trailing towards home, he joined her on the street.

Dixon and Mr. Bell always shared a friendly chord. Both were exactly similar in a dozen ways. Moreover, Mr. Bell was unlike his friend Richard, and since Dixon always took an edge with her master for being sensitive and ignorant, she preferred Mr. Bell’s sarcastic and energetic company. They started to walk home together.

“Dixon, came to buy groceries to prepare dinner for me and the Hales, eh?”

“Yes, of course. Had to buy quite a few things and it’s a good day to be out!”

“Yes, I saw you walking deep in thought. Is something the matter?”

“Why, no, I mean, I was thinking of Miss Margaret”.

“Margaret? Is she fine? I had seen her yesterday, and she seemed well although reserved than usual”.

“Ay, yes, that’s what I am worried about. She hardly speaks much and keeps to herself. Goes to meet that union leader and the Boucher childer as usual, talks with Mary, master, you, and all, but something nagging her. Thought it might be her poor mama’s death. Yet, something’s different about the miss”.

Mr. Bell understood Dixon’s worry. He was himself of the same opinion. Margaret was carrying her burdens alone. Ever since she had come to Milton, all that she faced was a sort of culture shock by the ways of the Northerners, her mother’s death, lack of company, brother’s adventurous escape, and whatnot! And most importantly, her feelings and opinions on Thornton. Despite all hurdles, Margaret was remaining stronger than ever.

“I heard from Hale that Fred had come to visit during Maria’s death. Both father and daughter might have felt happy seeing the man after so long!”

“Master Frederick! Yes, we all were happy to meet him after all these years. It was quite risky yet Miss Margaret was firm to fulfill her mother’s last wish. All was going good, but we were just spared by god’s miracle from getting caught, you see!”

Mr. Bell was stunned to hear Dixon speaking so. Hale didn’t say that there was trouble, he was confidently speaking of his son’s time in Milton with such ease and happiness.

“What? Was there any trouble? Hale didn’t tell me so!”

“He didn’t tell you because he isn’t aware of all this! Quite ignorant and self-centred that he is! But yes, some three days before the poor mistress’ death, I was met by a man named Leonards while I had gone out for groceries. He is such a mischief-maker and drinker. Used to live in Helstone before he quit the place to get into the sea or something.”

“What does that man have to do with Fred?”

“He knows of Master Frederick of course! Asked me why we were here, who all were there and such things. I managed to shoo him off. But I did tell Miss Margaret and her brother to be safe. That’s why the miss urged her brother to go right that night itself immediately after the mistress passed away”.

Mr. Bell sighed in relief. Again, Margaret proved to be prudent and sensible, as she always was. But Dixon was not yet finished speaking.

“But that sick drunkard saw both the miss and master at the station that night! He had drabbled with the master, I think. But Miss Margaret somehow sent her brother off safely. Two days later, got to know that Leonards had died near the railway station! Will you believe me if I say that an inspector had come to the house to speak to Miss Margaret? I heard him questioning her whereabouts that night. Miss couldn’t help risking her brother’s life so had to lie. But the inspector was quite cautious. Said he will come the next day if he has more questions to ask!”

Mr. Bell was hardly able to suppress his shock and bewilderment. So much had happened that stirred up his brain.

“I hope he didn’t come? He must have believed Margaret, right?”

“Nay, he came. But he simply told that he will not inquire more and drop her out of this thing altogether. All thanks to that tradesman, master’s pupil!”

“What? You mean Thornton for sure?”

“Yes, the magistrate that he is! He seems to have helped Miss Margaret escape from the inspector. He knows of Master Frederick, I hope. The master would have surely told him or at least Miss Margaret would have. Otherwise, he wouldn’t have helped so easily, eh?”

What Mr. Bell heard from Dixon almost seemed to piece everything together in place. Hale had mentioned that Margaret stopped him from disclosing about Fred to Thornton, since that would put him in a compromising situation as he was a magistrate. She was right, he did take pride in his position as he was the youngest appointed magistrate in the town! Secondly, this man Leonards stirred trouble to the Hales. Fred seems to have just escaped by nothing short of a miracle, again thanks to Margaret. While Margaret seems to have taken care of everything to keep her family and Thornton safe from any harm or misgivings, she herself has fallen for it. If he was right, Margaret wouldn’t have yet revealed about Fred to Thornton. And didn’t Hale tell that his pupil had come for his lessons as usual while Fred was there at Crampton? So Margaret would have managed the situation somehow to send away Thornton. And he would have become aware of Margaret lying to the inspector. That would have puzzled and hurt him enormously. Even then, he must have helped her due to his feelings for her.

Mr. Bell finally understood that Fred’s situation might be the cause of the lovers being apart.

***

Mr. Hale was sitting by the fire, his Plato in hand. But he wasn’t reading, or maybe his eyes were on the page but his mind elsewhere. Margaret noticed her father with sadness.

“Papa, shall I fetch tea? Would you like to have something?”

“No my dear. I was just… well… thinking…”

“About what, papa?”

“You, of course.”

Margaret was scared suddenly. Did her father become aware of the so-called impropriety? Was her father in shock and disbelief, just as Mr. Thornton?

“Me? What about me, papa?”

“About your future, dear. I won’t be here for long. And I am thankful to at least know that Fred has reached Spain as will be soon marrying the love of his life. But you! I just do not know what will happen…”

“Papa, please don’t speak so! You will live long and teach many more pupils! They need people like you here. As for my brother, I am pleased he has someone to love him there just as we do. We both shall stay for each other just as we do now.”

“My dear, I know you will be there for me no matter what, just as you have always been there for your mother and brother. But what about you, Margaret? You will have to live a life for your own, if you understand what I mean…”

“I understand, father. I really do. But I don’t think it’s the time yet to talk about it.”

Just then, Dixon and Mr. Bell entered the home. Both father and daughter felt glad by the intrusion.

“There, Bell! Come, take a seat.”

“How are you doing today, Hale? And you, Margaret?”

“We were just talking to each other. And how was your day?”

“Quite tedious, in fact. Nose deep within agreements, invoices, bills, and receipts. Not to forget, Thornton’s visit.”

Margaret’s face lit up.

“He will be coming tomorrow for his lesson. But why did he come to meet you?”

“Why, business of course. Marlborough Mills isn’t doing well, Hale. Thornton is quite depressed, but I believe he will come out of the troubles well.”

Margaret was distressed to hear Mr. Bells’ words. She had surmised as much from her visits to Princeton. But while hearing it from her godfather felt like there was more to the issue. She couldn’t withstand the thought of Jo– Mr. Thornton’s business falling out just like that. For all the pride the Thorntons held, they were sure worthy of it, especially him. She admired his sense of business and authority, something which she once loathed in him. And also the poor workers! Their lives will come to a standstill if anything happens to Marlborough Mills…

“My dear, you are lost deep in thought”, Mr. Bell cleared the air.

“Yes, to hear that Mr. Thornton’s mill is in trouble seems sorrowful. I hope the troubles are solved soon. They will”.

“I haven’t seen such a fine man as him. And to know he is facing such problems is in fact distressing. I think I should let him attend to the concerns of his mill and not teach him at the moment.”

“No Hale, the time he spends here is the only thing that keeps that man sane! Let him come if he wishes to. If he cannot make it, he will himself let you know that he cannot.”

“That sounds sensible too”, Mr. Hale replied.

Dixon arrived with tea for the company. Margaret, then left to assist here with dinner. The friends were company for each other until dinner was ready.

“What is troubling you, Hale? I noticed both you and Margaret just when I and Dixon arrived. You looked out of sorts.”

“Yes, since a few days to be honest. I am worried about Margaret.”

“I understand what you mean.”

“I.. I don’t know what will happen to her after I am gone, Bell. Maria’s illness never allowed her to be closer to Margaret. I am happy for Fred to be safe in Spain, but Margaret! What will her future be? I know that her aunt and cousin dote on her and will have her removed to London immediately, if circumstances demand. But I know that Margaret never liked London society much, not to mention her aunt’s constant idea of propriety and decorum in the house.”

“Mrs. Shaw and her daughter are the complete opposite of Margaret. I came to know that minutes after I had visited them last summer, when I was invited by her.”

“Yes, but Margaret loves her cousin Edith. They hardly get along, but she’s grateful for the education she received under her aunt’s care. But if Margaret will be under her aunt’s custody after me, she and her daughter might expect Margaret to get married to Mr. Henry Lennox.”

“Henry Lennox? Isn’t he a barrister? Criminal law?”

“Yes, the exact man. He is Edith’s husband’s brother. Mr. Henry Lennox took a liking towards Margaret while she was in London. He had even come to Helstone right before our transfer to Milton. He proposed to Margaret, but she turned down his offer. She sees him as just a friend.”

“Haha, Margaret has a talent for turning down men.”

Mr. Hale laughed as well.

“Ah, that she does. Well, I never preferred the barrister myself. He just seems to be the kind who wants a wife for the sake of matrimony. And Margaret will not be considered in such a light. I was quite happy to know she had rejected his proposal. But that was not the case with Thornton, you know. John is different. I know he thinks highly of Margaret, but she seems to be firm in misunderstanding him. I just don’t know what will happen to her after me.”

“There, now! Don’t say such words. You will live long, teach long. Not unlike me. Stop worrying about Margaret. She is a strong lady of her own mind. She will not be put down by any.”

“That’s true. But I want her to have a choice. She can either live in London, now that Milton doesn’t seem to be her future home. Or she can go to Cadiz, Spain and live with Fred.”

Mr. Bell contemplated his words. Margaret might well enough, if given the chance to decide, choose Spain. She might not wish to infringe upon her aunt, and constantly manage her plans of putting her together with that barrister fellow.

“I see. But don’t worry about her, Hale. Because I will take care of her.”

“I don’t understand, Bell.”

“For some time, I was pondering over the same. What would happen after I am gone? You were thinking about Margaret but I was thinking about all the wealth I have earned. I don’t have a family as such, none that deserve what I made. Moreover, they will squander with it all for their useless pursuits. So, I have decided to make my goddaughter as my heir. But, don’t let this be known to her now. When the time comes, I will tell her myself, Hale.”

Mr. Hale was stunned to hear this.

“No, Bell. I do understand that my constant ramblings might have put you to decide such a thing. But really, you don’t have to…”

“Shhhh, man! It’s not your ramblings but my love for my goddaughter. I never felt like having a family, not after I lost the love of my life. But whenever I see Margaret and think about Fred, a part of me wishes to have had one. Now that it’s too late, let me at least offer all that I earned to my goddaughter. Surely, we won’t be taking our worldly possessions down the grave, will we? So let our children live better. And Margaret is not one to spend pounds on frills, laces, and balls. She will be independent, as she must be.”

Mr. Hale’s eyes gleamed with tears. He was grateful to have such a true friend as Bell. He felt like telling him the same.

”Bell, I…”

“You don’t have to say anything, Hale. Just don’t. I understand you as I have always done.”

Both friends sat in silence holding hands.

***

It was dark. It was a new moon night. That made the night feel young yet frightening.

Thoughts buried deep in the heart simmered to the surface.

In the mill house, the master was not asleep. He spent some time talking with his mother, when at last, he convinced her to retire. She went hesitatingly.

Now that he was alone with nothing but just a glass of brandy as company, Mr. Thornton contemplated his life.

His words to Margaret suddenly came to his mind. “I am looking into the future.” But what was it anyway? A future with no Margaret, no mill is as good as nothing.

Long back, when he thought about how far he had come, he felt proud. His entire life depended on his mill. He hardly thought about his life as a student in Oxford. Those days seldom contributed in the making of what he is now. It was his troubles which shaped him. If his father hadn’t chosen to end his life, he would have been something else totally. A professor, perhaps. Or maybe, a historian. Or whatever. It doesn’t matter.

He had a loving relationship with his father. He remembered how he used to take young John to his library, show him books, maps, and tell him stories of places. He always told him to dream bigger and stick to it. His mother was always the aloof one, who wished everything to be in order. She was not the one to dote on her children. But his father was the kindest man he had ever seen.

He didn’t expect all will come to an end with his father’s death. Two days before he died, he had come to meet his son at Oxford. That was their last conversation. And it was unlike the ones they had before.

His father spoke in general, but towards a point, he suddenly became firm as a rock. Before leaving, he asked his son to always take care of his mother and sister. Told him that life might be hard, but you should be harder enough to conquer it. It will be all worth it in the end one day, he had said. And then. He left.

Two days later, he saw his dead father. That was when he understood that he had made up his mind to leave everything behind and had come to meet his son for the last time.

Mr. Thornton had never told about his last conversation with his father to his mother. He never thought to reveal it to her, because they hardly spoke of anything out of business at all. Mostly, he was angry at the man for leaving abruptly.

But now, he understood his father. How sorrowful it must have been to choose death. And how it put an end to his suffering, although his family was left behind to survive on nought.

Was he considering the same path as his father? Mr. Thornton asked himself. But he didn’t know. No, it was not an option at all. He was still too proud and strong to do that. He was exhausted to think about anything at all. Because nothing was left to give him solace. He would be following himself if he still believed that the mill would recover somehow. He would be fooling himself if he hoped for Margaret even more. His only solace was in the fact that his sister was safe and well taken care of. Watson might not be of her age, but he doted on Fanny.

Nothing helped, but maybe his dreams of Margaret may help. Tomorrow he will be able to meet her again. That was the only best part of his life. Just as the mill was coming slowly to a dead end, something told him that his time with Margaret would be soon ending as well. She might not stay in Milton for long. No matter how much he wished she would. He realized that he can somehow withstand the loss of his mill, his position. But Margaret? He didn’t know how he could live without her.

Defeated, he finished drinking and decided to retire.

Chapter Text

It was Friday. The morning was bleak and it felt more smoky than usual. Margaret woke up, completed her bath and basic chores, before setting to come downstairs. Dixon had already started preparing breakfast and Mary would be coming anytime soon. Her father was free that day and at home, due to some repairs going on in the Lyceum Hall as she remembered him telling her. Mr. Bell would be joining them later in the afternoon, and she was looking forward to his company.

Today Mr. Thornton will be visiting for his usual lectures. Margaret was exhausted and shuddered to face him again and also his harsh scrutiny. The fact that she was innocent did not help ease her mind, as she now lay low in the eyes of the man she admired and adored the most. Not to forget the awful conversation she had with the Latimer women. Word must have reached the Thorntons undoubtedly. But Margaret was beyond the point of caring about it, and anything honestly. Her mind orbited over how the mill master went ahead to think the worst of her, and also how his affections have possibly changed their course, from her to another woman.

Margaret was not one to hate other people. At most, she will be stubborn in her opinions and will not back down. That was all. She hardly gave people space in her mind for hatred. Same was the case with Miss Latimer. Somehow, she started to come to terms with the possibility. She will not lower herself to fight for a man’s affections, and more so Miss Latimer was a genteel and shy woman, someone who would obviously fit the Thorntons’ expectations. Unlike her.

“So be it”, Margaret thought. “I tried my best to convince him of the honesty of my actions, but god forbid, he doesn’t have the mind to listen. I shall put up with the lessons for my father. That’s all. There shall be no grudge against him in my heart, but yes, I feel disappointed that he would think so ill of me without considering an opposite possibility of my presence in Outwood. I am deeply saddened indeed, and shall always be.”

***

The mill was noisy as every day. There was no difference in the schedule of the mill’s functioning. The master and men were busy making the most of the day. But the workers started to sense trouble despite the usualness of the work. They understood that some trouble was brewing up, and it might be just a few more months before a situation of the most dreadful kind came to their ears.

But despite the uncertainty, the workers felt a distinct respect towards Mr. Thornton for the first time in their lives. The entire town knew him to be aloof yet honest. He was fairer in his dealings with the hands and many a times, meted out justice with the best integrity to the people of Milton as magistrate. The womenfolk were indebted to him for being saved many times by drunk husbands, atrocious men trying to violently take hold of them, and such crimes. On the other hand, the men were loyal to him as the riot did indeed bring the master and the men on an equal ground. Not to forget his kind deed of setting up a mill canteen. Yes, the workers had to pay for their plate, but nevertheless, they went back home with filled tummies. Starvation was the worst sort of predicament, and thankfully the workers of Marlborough Mills need not choose other ill ways to ease their and their family’s hunger.

Mr. Thornton was locked up in his office. He was scribbling in his little pocket book, and also cutting out whatever he wrote. His calculations and plans simply didn’t work out. For the mill to stay stable for the next few months would be a deadly challenge. Yes, the next six months will decide the fate, not just of the Thorntons but of almost one and fifty families who were a part of Marlborough Mills.

Just then, Higgins knocked on the door. Mr. Thornton asked him to enter. Higgins was holding a note and held it out towards Mr. Thornton.

“A note for ye. The messenger boy brought it but I sent him away as I had to talk to ye about the carding room and the store room. Here, take it.”

The master acknowledged and took it with a nod. He guessed the sender correctly, it was from Mr. Hale. Mr. Thornton had sent him a note asking if he could come a little early, by afternoon four o’clock as he had the monthly club meeting to attend by seven. He wasn’t interested to attend the meeting anyway, as the discussions would revolve around speculation and Watson’s scheme. And also Slickson’s dry double-meaning retorts. But he wanted to become aware of the other master’s troubles with the mill as well, as it would help him to form decisions and opinions accordingly. He was also aware that the Lyceum Hall was undergoing renovation on that particular day, so probably Mr. Hale would be at home.

The note said that he was more than welcome to come at the time he preferred. That was expected of Mr. Hale, for he took pleasure in their discussions as much as Mr. Thornton did as well. The lingering discomfort on facing his teacher’s daughter was nibbling him like a prick on his skin, which he wasn’t able to locate and discard. He wouldn’t even if it continued to tear his skin and burn.

He started to come to terms with it. The pain of hurting Margaret that day never eased but he was also not able to help it. His words came out as an action of guarding his heart and wounded pride. He couldn’t believe even now that such a woman could behave in that way, but it was what it is. Acceptance was the first step towards healing, and apology was still pending. He was determined to get it done today. A simple yet heartfelt apology, at least for the sake of her father, his best friend and teacher.

He sifted through his file rack and picked out relevant documents as he would also be meeting Mr. Bell. He had asked him to discuss certain things of their business, although Mr. Thornton couldn’t see exactly what he had to say. But he must be prepared. Higgins and Mr. Thornton then set off to their usual rounds. The former was busy with work, while the latter kept glancing at his pocket watch. Four o’clock cannot come sooner. There was still five hours to go until he could see his beloved in the pretense of gaining knowledge.

***

Mr. Bell reached Crampton on time. He wanted to get out of the confines of the hotel. Its service was the best Milton could offer. But when it came to mindful hospitality, the Hales’ household was pleasant and blissful. What’s more, he wanted to try for the nth number of times to try to understand what’s bothering the master and the maiden. Today, he hoped, should put all misunderstandings to rest. He was carrying a few files just as a pretense. For god sake, it should work. He hardly had chances such as today where he could meet Thornton at Crampton.

He was welcomed in by Dixon with a warm smile. She started to prattle about the smokiness of that particular day, which didn’t go unnoticed by Mr. Bell himself. Was it trying to foreshadow something? He asked himself, before responding to Dixon’s talk.

Mr. Hale entered the drawing room in minutes of his arrival. He saw Mr. Bell carrying a few documents, which looked more like agreements. Mr. Bell answered him before he questioned.

“Hale, I hope you wouldn’t mind if I take some time of your pupil to discuss business. Of course, after your discussion. It concerns the mill and his tenancy, nothing much.”

“Ah yes, why not? I will not be of any hindrance! Not that I understand business and commerce much, anyway.”

Upstairs, the young lady was pacing around in her room like an angry agitated kitten. She was dressed neat and clean, trying to maintain a neutral composure, but in no vain. Her heart thrummed like never before. It seemed ages ago since she last met Mr. Thornton and heard his confession of no more love for her. Yet, deep in her heart, she prayed. She prayed if he could understand her a little, if by chance, his heart suggested that she could be truthful and righteous.

After a few moments of talk, Mr. Thornton joined the two men in the drawing room. He was welcomed warmly by Mr. Hale, but with that typical smirk by his landlord. Not that Mr. Thornton minded the intrusion. His eyes roamed the room and the house unsteadily for someone else…

“Searching for something, Thornton?”, Mr. Bell broke the silence.

“No one, I mean nothing, of course.” The reply came quick and Mr. Bell didn’t fail to notice it. The master was expecting to see Margaret and his mind questioning whether the young woman would join them today or not. She should have come already if she wanted to. Mr. Bell took the charge and asked Mr. Hale himself.

“Hale, will Margaret be joining us? I haven’t seen her yet! Is she ill?”

“Oh no, that is she isn’t ill or anything. She must be cleaning her room, I suppose. She will be joining us, she did say yesterday that she will.”

Mr. Bell gave his signature smug look to Mr. Thornton. It was returned by the master’s terrific scowl. If all went correct as he hoped, today might bring the lovers together. Or at least, clear the air between them.

Margaret was able to hear the muffled voices of the men downstairs. She sighed and went down the stairs and hesitantly into the drawing room. She had decided already not to glance at Mr. Thornton. But she felt his burning gaze already and it was too much to bear. She was welcomed by the men and sat herself on the chair in front of the them. She felt as if she was sitting in front of a jury of some sorts, which was commissioned to investigate her.

Her glance went a second towards Mr. Thornton, only to see that he was already glaring at him. As for him, he couldn’t help but notice how the bright fire gave her a gracious look. Clothing her in a cape of gold. She looked like a woman clothed in sun, as beautiful and marvelous a woman could be. Her pale skin was only accentuated by the strong embering yellows of the fire, making her dark navy blue skirt look more prominent over her curves. She sat like a queen on a throne, only her crown was missing. His heart shrank in distress, knowing all too well that the object of his love stayed right in front him, but seemed unattainably distant like the sun itself.

The discussion started. Ironically or maybe not, the topic at hand was truth. What Aristotle and Plato told about truth? Mr. Thornton felt that truth no longer held an interest anymore in him, as according to him, he was the best judge to draw his inferences by what he saw. In this case, his thoughts on the subject relied heavily on Margaret and her actions, and he hardly gave a damn about what the dead philosophers had professed. She looked nervous, no wonder why. Her fingers were fidgety, her eyes fluttering like a restless butterfly. It hurt him that he was the cause of her discomfort, as much as she was of his.

Mr. Hale stated- “So Plato’s ideas of truth are universally acknowledged as they are as lucid as they can be put. He states that truth is not relative, not dependent but an entity in itself.”

“Does that mean that truth is objective?”, Mr. Thornton questioned.

“Yes, exactly. Plato was not like the sophists. He believed that truth requires not a passive approach but an active one. One cannot get nearer to the truth if he’s inactive in his search. His approach should also be combined with rationality.”

It was Mr. Bell’s turn to comment. “Rationality, hmmm. Not everyone uses it as soon as one leads himself to believe what he sees.”

“True, that what we see might not be true. Yet, sometimes, all facts and evidence rely heavily on supporting what was seen. In such a case, visual evidence gets the vote. I speak from my experience as a magistrate”, Mr. Thornton spoke with an edge and confidence.

Margaret noticed how the conversation was steering on. A moment earlier, he seemed reclusive and lost in his thoughts. But now, given the chance to speak, his usual authoritative tone started to surface. She listened carefully as he was not commenting on truth in general, but about her actions, although indirectly.

“Possibly true, but remember that truth is objective? So, our beliefs on what we encountered alone might not lead us to achieve truth.”

“If I am correct, there are three conditions proposed by Plato to be considered while seeking truth? Aren’t there, Hale?”, Mr. Bell asked.

“Yes, there are three necessary conditions, each one important. First- the premise or idea should be believed, second- that premise must be true, and third- the premise must be supported by reason.”

Margaret could not be more uncomfortable. Her curiosity was piqued now and she couldn’t help but find how much the topic related to her situation. She quickly found her mind offering her the best response-

“And sometimes, people get stuck within the first condition itself. We often believe what we see that our mind registers it as strongly as it could, blemishing the possibility of even thinking of other reasons.”

The answer hit its mark, and while Mr. Bell and Mr. Hale nodded in agreement, Mr. Thornton’s mind was racing. Her reply came as a hard response to his previous statement and he was suddenly confused.

“Miss Hale, so do you mean to say that you are so remarkable for the truth?”said Mr. Thornton, bitterly. The moment he had done so, he could have bitten his tongue out. What was he? And why should he stab her with her shame in this way? How evil he was to-night: possessed by ill-humour at being detained so long from her; irritated by the mention of some name, because he thought it belonged to a more successful lover; now ill-tempered because he had been unable to cope, with a light heart, against one who was trying, by gay and careless speeches, to make the evening pass pleasantly away,—the kind old friend to all parties, whose manner by this time might be well known to Mr. Thornton, who had been acquainted with him for many years. And then to speak to Margaret as he had done! 

Margaret stared in silence.

The time was running out and Mr. Thornton knew that he had to patch up the situation somehow. To sit in his teacher’s home and retort at his own daughter so cruelly! He felt his adrenaline rush through his veins, beating his heart like a child juggling with a ball.

“I mean, are we all so remarkable for the truth? What I wish to say is that sometimes, one’s experiences in life, in general, shapes our perception. No, I don’t condemn that. For it could not be false entirely, to judge and assess situations, provided, as I said, all facts and evidence depend heavily on supporting the premise or notion further, perhaps.”

There, he added an extra fitting to ease the shameful barb he had thrown at her. The humiliation did not erase from their faces, but Mr. Hale was quick to rub it off and continue. Mr. Bell’s playful smirk vanished and he glared at him, with a tinge of irritation.

Margaret could clearly see that he was trying to manage by distracting the conversation. She couldn't let the comment go through without responding- "I do believe that no matter what, some people don't deserve to know the truth. If one believes that he deserves to achieve the truth, he will not be running away from it."

Mr. Hale fumbled and thought it best to move ahead before the two youngsters start arguing. “I have whole faith in your truthfulness and its idea, John. Of course, to be a magistrate and also to be able to think carefully considering all points is indeed a gift which very few possess. Moving on, Aristotle’s definition of truth is more vague yet to the point I suppose. It doesn’t hold much interest in me, maybe because I prefer Plato in everything. I will read out the definition- "To say of what is that it is not, or of what is not that it is, is false, while to say of what is that it is, and of what is not that it is not, is true". There, it is. Simply put.”

The conversation held no interest to the rest of the three however. Mr. Thornton wanted to run away from the home as fast as he could. He glanced at Margaret who kept her eyes fixed on her lap. Her hair hid her eyes well, but he could witness her sudden panic. She almost looked as if she will recoil in the chair like a snail. Or like a mimosa plant, when touched closes its leaves defending it from harm. And her words were ringing in his ears like a chimed bell. Running away from the truth? Am I, by any chance, believing an absurd idea of her actions? Or does she simply imply that I didn't let myself listen to her explanation that the man was her fiance? He asked himself.

For those words, Mr. Thornton could have struck her cheeks- Margaret thought. This was the height of humiliation she ever faced in her life. Her sadness slowly turned into defensive anger. “All for trying to save my dear brother from the gallows! No abominable thing was done by me to deserve such an insult to which I should be no recipient at all!”, she silently thought, tears struggling to prick her eyes.

Mr. Bell was equally annoyed and waited to strike Thornton with his words when the time came. As for now, he cautiously fetched Thornton’s files and placed them on the other side of the shelf, without him or anyone noticing.

Margaret excused herself carefully and went to fetch the tea tray. She was glad of the excuse as she had to recompose herself for a minute. She wiped the tears quickly and entered the room, tray in hand. She poured tea in three cups, handed them over to Mr. Bell and her father. Mr. Thornton was about to fetch his cup from her hands, but Margaret simply placed it on the tray and pushed the teapoy towards him.She then exited the drawing room, her face hung low. Mr. Thornton was hurt by what happened and wished he had not come at all.

Chapter Text

Mr. Thornton cursed himself. He was incredibly rude to Miss Hale and seeing her exit the room wrenched his heart. The three men talked about the economy, the city, and books and such sort. But the conversation didn’t hold any focus for the mill master. He suddenly felt his nerves clench and twist, he felt suffocated by his remarks. He wanted to run away from the house.

It was time anyway, and he had to rush to the meeting at the club. He excused himself, bid Mr. Hale adieu, secretly hoped to get a glimpse of her, but couldn’t. He walked out of the room, with Dixon fetching his coat and hat to him.

He walked fast, his head drowned deep in misery. “What has come over me? To speak of her in such a manner? What difference is there between the gossipers and me, then? She has every right to fall in love, with someone much better and worthy for a graceful woman like her. But to call her untruthful? That too, in front of her father and godfather? And not to forget, to inform her that my feelings for her have been extinguished. Ah, what a lie! They have only increased intensely, even if I know she is out of my reach. Well done. This has gone beyond the limit and she will never look at me ever again.” He thought to himself.

He was now standing in front of the club. He was half an hour late and could already hear the other mill masters roaring and guffawing like a herd of goats. He was uninterested to attend the meeting. They would talk about the upcoming speculation, talk ruthlessly and lewdly about women, and curse their workers. And he would have to bear it all like a stupid schoolboy who had been summoned to the principal’s office.

***

At Crampton, dinner was going on. It was a silent affair. Mr. Hale was as usual, but Mr. Bell noticed Margaret’s somber mood. He was still annoyed by Thornton’s remark on her and was waiting for an appropriate time to fling it back at him.

After dinner, the men went to the drawing room. Margaret kept her fingers busy with needlework. It was foolish to do so; knitting was not a skill she could ever muster. But it helped her mind stay out of Mr. Thornton, so she did. Some moments later, Mr. Hale left to study, as he had to prepare for the next day’s lectures. That left Mr. Bell a chance to talk to Margaret.

“Margaret rose from her seat, and began silently to fold up her work. The long seams were heavy, and had an unusual weight for her languid arms. The round lines in her face took a lengthened, straighter form, and her whole appearance was that of one who had gone through a day of great fatigue.

“I never saw a fellow so spoiled by success. He can’t bear a word; a jest of any kind. Everything seems to touch on the soreness of his high dignity. Formerly, he was as simple and noble as the open day; you could not offend him, because he had no vanity”, Mr. Bell condemned.

“He is not vain now,” said Margaret, turning round from the table, and speaking with quiet distinctness. “To-night he has not been like himself.” 

Mr. Bell looked at her for a minute.

“He is blinded by his own foolish thoughts, my dear. You see, it will just be a matter of time before the fog clears up and the sun comes out!”

That said, he left the room. Margaret kept gaping at the burning fire. She was too frozen by the comment, which was still ringing in her ears. She felt a mixture of every emotion that existed, love for him despite his mistrust on her, anger at his foolishness and quick judgment of her actions without bothering to even think outside of what he had actually seen at the station.

Tomorrow, she remembered, she had to visit Mrs. Thornton. She felt fearful and wished to avoid the meeting. She wanted to stay away from society as long as she could, curl up in bed and just be, that’s all. But she knew she couldn't, at least for the sake of respect. The woman was kind to her mother although she didn’t show it too much. She had to return the favor by obliging the invitation.

She went to her room quietly and prepared for bed.

***

Today will be a significant day. Mrs. Thornton woke up as usual, but her mind was in confusion. She couldn’t wait for Miss Hale to just come and confess the truth of her family secret, the existence of her mutineer brother.

But she knew that she had to tread carefully, lest she annoy the girl. The young miss was too proud for goodness sake. Both she and John had unknowingly hurt the young lady. It was a great relief after all that Miss Hale had agreed to meet her in the first place. She wanted to get done with this and get on ahead but patience was necessary. For her son’s sake, she had to converse with her carefully, trying to assure her that she will not put the family in danger by knowing the truth. And if miracles do exist, she wished to see at least a hint of love in her eyes for her son.

Her thoughts were broken when she saw John entering the room. She hoped that he had forgotten about Miss Hale’s visit. She wanted to have a talk with her in private. Her son being present will only enlarge the distance and the bitterness that existed already between her and John.

But it was John, who was head over heels in love with the haughty Miss Hale, and he never forgot one single detail about her.

“Mother, I suppose today Miss Hale will be visiting us, right?”

Mrs. Thornton sighed.

“Yes, she will be coming to visit me”, she replied with no interest, emphasizing on the latter part of her response..

“Mother, I think it would be only right if I am also present. I will be going to the mill, finish up a few tasks, and come back by a quarter to eleven. Goodbye, mother.”

“Wait, John!”

“Yes?”

“I don’t think it proper for you to be here when she comes. You better be at the mill, it’s already in trouble. I shall keep her company.”

Mr. Thornton flinched. He knew that this would come, his mother would not allow his presence in front of her. But his mother and Miss Hale were never good company, and with regards to their last conversation at Crampton, he knew he had to be present so as to make sure his mother doesn’t hurt her with her words.

“No, I wish to see her…”

“No, you will do as I say. I wish to talk to her in private. I know you are afraid that I might speak rude to her, but I promise you I will not. That is, I will not be too easy as well. But for once, if you wish this to be right, you will stay in your office.”

Mr. Thornton protested further but his mother was quite stern. She reminded him that he had hurt her too, and his presence might make her uncomfortable and annoyed. He knew that his mother was right but what baffled him was the fact that his mother was speaking with a sense of purpose. She never liked Miss Hale although he knew that she applauded her sense of simplicity and bold nature inwardly. But her sudden interest in Miss Hale kept flashing in his mind. He knew not what to make of it.

He only warned her that she not speak one rude word against Miss Hale no matter what, and that she will inform him what they talked about later when he comes home. He was dejected that he cannot stay while she comes. He was happy thinking that she will come and be at his home at least for a little while, although he had hopes that his home will forever be hers as well in future. That was not to happen, he surmised and left for the mill sadly.

***

It was ten o’clock. Margaret tried to be indifferent but she was too good for that. Her mind questioned her after all, why she had to visit the woman and the son who had so insulted her without knowing what led her to behave so. Her heart, on the other hand, pulled up every excuse and justification it could, and naturally, she listened to the latter.

The last time she visited the mill house was on the day of the strike. That day, she visited them with nothing more than a neighborly thought. But today, it was different. She would spend some time in his home, just some time, although deep in her heart, she thought how it would be to live with him. The mere thought sent shivers down her spine with a tingle, but the next minute, she sorrowed. She had thrown his love away awfully with her words and haste when he had proposed. Now, it was too late and also he was probably becoming acquainted with another woman…

She shuddered. She didn’t wish to imagine him with Miss Latimer. She reasoned that the invitation to visit Mrs. Thornton would have come in order to discuss her terrible bold conversation that day with the Latimers. Mrs. Watson was too good to stay quiet and would have informed her mother of what happened. Obviously.

“That must be it”, she thought. “She wishes me to visit her, so that she can tell me straightforwardly not to associate myself with them and especially her son in any way! A disgraceful woman, that I have shown myself to be. Wasn’t it? It must be so. Both of us are too good for any sort of meaningful conversation.”

“But I will show my face at her door, only for the sake of my mother. I shall keep my promise to her. But one word against my character, and I will not be quiet! I won’t tolerate any ill comments of my actions by those who are hardly aware of what led me to do so in the first place”.

On the contrary, Dixon grumbled. She never favored the Thorntons and this sudden invitation from the Thornton mother puzzled her. But despite her confusion, she came up to Margaret, ensuring that she looked prim and proper like a proper lady should. Margaret almost laughed at her maid’s attention to her looks, when all that would happen was verbal argument and bitter conversation.

At last it was time to set off. Mary just entered the house. She talked to her for a few minutes, fetched her hat, and left her home.

It felt as if she set foot outside her home after so many days, when in truth she had just been out two days ago. She walked briskly. She noticed that people were on their usual chores; men pulling carts and women by the stores. It was just like any other day, and she was thankful that she didn't draw much attention except by some men who looked at her as if they never saw any woman in their lives before.

As she was getting closer to the Marlborough street, her heart was practically skidding madly. She felt nervous by what was to come, although a part of her assured that she can handle any sort of situation that was to come. The real challenge was Mr. Thornton. She kept thinking about his whereabouts, would he be in his mill or have gone out on business? Worse, or maybe for good, would he be present along with his mother? That was still unlikely, as he had made such a nasty remark on her truthfulness just yesterday. A part of her wished to see him, while the other wished that he didn’t see her, lest she melt with shame and hurt by his scrutiny.

She had reached the mill gate. The mill grounds were as always in a flurry of activity, with carts and cartons, cotton and children all around doing their chores. Men were busy stocking the bales. She wished to run back home and return again with Mary in tow, just for company. But nah, she didn’t want herself to be seen as a timid person and it might be improper to come with Mary.

***

Mr. Thornton stood by his office window gazing outside with bated breath. He waited to get a glimpse of Margaret. No work was done in the past four hours since he had come to the mill. His mind kept thinking about her arrival, how she would be dressed, and if she was still hurt by his rudeness yesterday.

“Obviously, she would still be hurt, you fool!”, his heart screamed at himself.

Just then, he caught her figure, standing daintily by the mill gate. Her hat hid her face. The hat made her look haughty and sometimes even a bit droll. It always caught his attention as did every other detail of her attire. Her small figure continued to stand outside the gate. He was confused as to why she wasn’t entering. It was then he realized that she was probably uncomfortable or anxious to come at all. She kept moving back and again turning towards the gate, as if talking to herself.

At last, she entered. The few women and children greeted her. Higgins came to her as well. Mr. Thornton noted his workers to see if they cast a dirty look at her, concerning the Outwood gossip, but thankfully everyone was as normal as they had been. The men tipped their hats to her, but also many heads turned and gazed at her beauty. Mr. Thornton wanted to poke the eyes out of the men, but instead chose to look at her, now carefully climbing the steps to the home. Just then, her eyes caught his.

Margaret tried hard to not look even once towards the mill. She kept her gaze fixed on what was in front of her. To her gratefulness, the workers didn’t talk behind her back but smiled at her, and came forward to talk a word or two even. Her heart blossomed at that, knowing that her Princeton friends were at least cordial to her rather than the haughty upper crust people of Milton. She started to climb the steps. Try as she might, she couldn’t help but look if the master was there anywhere near the mill. As sly as she tried to be, it was in vain, because she saw the familiar tall and stern figure already staring at her.

Her pale skin turned red in an instant. She felt the heat rushing through her veins and tingling her cheeks. He stood firmly, not turning his gaze away. She saw a hint of a grin in his face, but dismissed the observation as it wasn’t possible, after what he was thinking of her now. Most importantly, it was the second instance of her catching him looking at her. Some months ago, she encountered the same scorching stare from him when she was entering the Lyceum Hall while he stood looking at her from the window at the master’s club.

Mr. Thornton’s heart was pounding with ecstasy when he caught her eyes searching for him, despite her trying to make it seem normal. He suddenly remembered that day when he saw her entering the Lyceum Hall to see her father. He felt that he would faint when at last she saw him eye to eye. She stood white as a sheet, but when he saw her slowly turning red with embarrassment, he felt a sly happiness creeping inside him. To see her blush and still stand like a proud queen! He wanted to laugh and controlled his grin from reaching his ears.

At last, he saw her swiftly enter the house and the valet shutting the door.

He dropped his gaze and sighed. He suddenly saw a handful of his workers including Higgins looking up at him from below. They grinned as well and giggled before seeing his scowl and immediately setting off to their works. It was then that he realized that he and Miss Hale were being watched. He felt embarrassed as well, and saw the faintest of blushes creeping his cheeks.

Chapter Text

She was ushered in by the valet. He informed her that Mrs. Thornton will be present in a few moments.

It didn’t take much time for the authoritarian nature of the mill house to surround Margaret. She felt like entering a dark cave after walking through a large forest. Every single thing in the Thornton house was spic and span. Not a vase out of place, every chair fixed on the floor. It was silent, except for the sounds from the mill. She remembered Miss Thornton, the now Mrs. Watson constantly bickering about the mill whenever she met Margaret. As for her, she noticed that it was not entirely too disturbing. In fact, she realized why the dragon mother was proud to be always kept listening to the noises of her son’s achievement. It must be like music to her ears, mused Margaret.

She stood by the window facing the mill. It was the place of Mrs. Thornton actually, who spent hours sometimes standing there simply looking at her son’s empire. Margaret saw the workers working swiftly, stacking up the cartons on the carts. There was cotton everywhere. She was reminded by her own remark long back: of hell being white. The workers were systematic, of course, they had to be if they worked under someone like Mr. Thornton.

Just then, she saw Jane, the notorious maid. She cast Margaret a surprised and haughty look, before rummaging through the chest of drawers and shelves in the room. She was in search of something significant, Margaret understood.

“It there eh?”, Elisa, another maid asked Jane from another room.

“Nay, it ain’t! Turned the entire house upside down but no gloves to be seen!” Jane responded, continuing her search through the wooden drawers.

“Master asked all to search and get it no matter what! He wants his gloves as soon as possible.”

Margaret was all ears now. She understood immediately. His gloves! The leather gloves he had left on the day of his proposal after the riot. The gloves which gave Margaret so much comfort that was otherwise almost impossible to be received from a human. Except for him, of course. His gloves were an intimate possession of his, now in her hands, why, it was lying in her pockets right now! She never parted away from it, so as to be sure that Dixon or her father didn’t find it out. He was searching for it which meant that he must be definitely frustrated to have lost it. She even knew that it was his father’s possessions, the rarest thing he wished to own in his remembrance, as he had himself told her father during one of their discussions.

“Ay, I pretty sure it must be lyin’ somewhere in the mill! The storehouse maybe, or canna say, even the hands themselves mustna stolen it! ‘em fools will never change”, said Jane.

Margaret’s hands slowly clenched her pocket in her gown and she felt uncomfortable. She kept her gaze fixed on the mill grounds, lest the maids find her feeling anxious. Just then, she heard someone clearing their throat…

“Good morning Miss Hale.”

The brusque voice was not lost on Margaret. She cleared her thoughts and tried to stay as calm as possible.

“Good morning, Mrs. Thornton. I hope you are fine.”

“Thank you, Miss Hale. Yes, I am fine. Please sit.”

Mrs. Thornton asked Jane and Elisa about the gloves. She was also sure that Mr. Thornton might have left it in his office or somewhere at the mill. She dismissed them after ordering Jane to fetch them both tea and refreshments.

“I hope the noises from the mill aren’t disturbing to you, Miss Hale.” Mrs.

Thornton said with an air of defense, almost reminding Miss Hale of her fixed opinions of Milton and especially her son.

“No, not at all. They are not entirely disturbing, I almost find it like a rhythm of itself.”

A rhythm? Seriously? Mrs. Thornton wanted to laugh at Miss Hale’s implication. It was such a silly observation yet the proud mother couldn’t help but feel prouder about her son.

If Margaret was growing uncomfortable in anticipation of the conversation, Mrs. Thornton calmed herself to take the matter slowly. She noticed the young lady minutely- her skin was pale, which probably meant that she had cried sometime before. She was still in mourning, her attire all black. Yet, Miss Hale looked absolutely dainty in so black a gown. She was bearing her grief like no other, with so much poise and strength. Had it been her daughter or another woman, she would have cried all tears for two days before setting off to continue renovating her house. She now understood why the young lass made so many heads turn, even her son John. Her hair was so much out of place, strands falling all over her forehead, and she tucked it behind her ear often. Due to her decided opinions on Miss Hale, Mrs. Thornton always considered her as too haughty. But now when she took time to assess her, she noticed a childlike disposition lurking in her stiff and bold demeanor. She realized how strong she was and yet so fragile. No wonder why John loves her so much, Mrs. Thornton thought. And in so many ways, Miss Hale suddenly reminded her of her own young self.

Mrs. Thornton had made sure to keep the torn newspaper article mentioning the Hales’ family secret in one of the drawers. She held the key in her hand now, waiting for the right time to open up the conversation without scaring off the young woman.

Tea was brought by the maid. Mrs. Thornton then ensured the maids were busy- Jane was sent to the grocer’s, and the rest of them were sent to air the rooms on the top floor. The two women then managed to talk about the usual. She offered her condolences again to Miss Hale. After enquiring about her house affairs and such sort, she understood that it was Miss Hale who was running the home no doubt, almost taking every decision out of her reasoning, with little or some help from her maid Dixon and her father.

“Please don’t hesitate to ask my help in any matter if you require any, at any point of time, Miss Hale. I will do my best, as I have promised your mother.”
Mrs. Thornton managed to offer a kind word or two.

Margaret was suddenly reminded of the dreadful conversation they had just a month or so ago. It was so ironic that Mrs. Thornton said such a thing. But she understood that the woman’s words were not in jest and she really meant it. The Thornton son and mother never minced with their words, spoke no words which they didn’t mean. She immediately wanted to ask Mrs. Thornton directly the reason for asking her to visit, but it might be rude. She was nervous and worried when her pretense might wear down. The sooner she rushed out of the place, the better.

“I thank you so much, Mrs. Thornton. I will gladly seek your help if the need arises.”

Mrs. Thornton took a deep breath and stiffened. It was time. She had to know the truth from Miss Hale and waste no time further.

“Your family lives in London, I suppose? I remember Fanny tittering about your family- the Shaws ever since her visit to the Great Exhibition.”

“Yes, they do. Aunt Shaw is my mother’s sister. Her daughter- my cousin, her husband and all live there.”

“I see. So, half your life was spent under your aunt’s care.”

“Yes. She was kind enough and saw me and her daughter as the same. I had gone to London from Helstone when I was nine. I used to go back to the country during summers. Rest of the time I was located in London.”

“How did you find it? I am sure you must be loving the sophisticated south for all its culture and fashion.”

“That’s true but I never preferred London society. It was and still is too ostentatious for my liking. I prefer Milton as to London.”

This came as a pleasant surprise to Mrs. Thornton. She felt proud and cast a look at the young lass, who in turn cast her a confident look.

“I mean what I said, Mrs. Thornton. Yes, I was a bit prejudiced about this city and its ways but I had my own reasons. Yet I never once show that I loved London. As for Helstone, it is my birthplace so it will always be dear to me.”

“Then that’s a good realization, I hope. I am happy you have found your way here. Like this city and it likes you back! I never understood the grandiosity of the South that came from absolute no hard work. But Milton ain’t like that. What you see, good or bad, is the result of hardwork.”

“This, I agree. I find the people here toiling hard day and night. Their struggles came as a hard-hitting reality to me, but I realized that this is life. I led a content life in Helstone. I was in my comfort zone and expected that this was how life was and should be everywhere. I was mistaken.”

Mrs. Thornton felt her regard for Miss Hale rising lightly. She warned herself against it. She had to guard herself against getting impressed by her words, the woman who rejected her son despite her truthful nature.

“Tell me about Helstone and your life there.”

Mrs. Thornton saw a flicker of bliss and nostalgia in her face.

“It is beautiful, almost like a place out of poetry! Father was the village vicar so we lived in the vicarage. It was large, we had our own garden and nursery. Father’s means were limited yet, we never felt poor even for a day. I was content; content to keep reading all day, lie on the grass, not dress too extravagant. I roamed in the woods, they had the best flowers and many rare ones too! I know all their names and take the village children often to show them flowers and fruits. As for the society and the people, we had only fifty families. We gathered together for the festivities and sometimes every once in three months. Weddings were small affairs, not the grand ones like here and London. People were happy with their meager incomes and fields. It was green and yellow everywhere. They were kind, always kind. Mother and father were always together with each other watching their children… I mean watching me play and teach the small children in the vicarage while they spent their time in bliss… I am sorry I got carried away…”

Margaret wanted to bite her tongue for almost having slipped about her brother’s existence. She suddenly felt too silly for talking like a wild goose in front of a woman who hardly bothered about the south. As for Mrs. Thornton, she did notice Miss Hale’s almost blatant confession and rejoiced inwardly.

“You don’t have to apologize Miss Hale. I understand. I just wanted to know the place you came from. I understand where your boldness and open nature come from. You lived in an unrestrained setting with your free will.”
Margaret thought for a minute to consider if Mrs. Thornton was disapproving of her character.

“I was the only daughter so my mother didn’t approve of my going out into the woods and the fields unattended though my father always gave me the freedom I deserved. I respect him for that, it gave me my space to know the world and its ways through my own experiences.”

“I see. I cannot disagree with your mother as you were her only daughter.”

Margaret knew that Mrs. Thornton was too strong on her opinions of her. She was a conservative woman, who believed that the rules and decorum put forth by society were to be followed at all costs.

“Were you the only child, Miss Hale?”

Mrs. Thornton’s sudden words baffled Margaret. Only child? What would that mean? Is she asking about the existence of anyone else, or merely asking if she had peers- girls of her own age for her to mingle with?

“If you mean people of my age, then no, I didn’t have many friends of my position…”

Margaret’s words hung in the air. She was met by nothing but a stare from the dragon woman.

“I am sorry, I don’t understand.”

“I asked if you were the only child to your parents?”

Of all the questions and topics Margaret surmised Mrs. Thornton would question, this was not expected at all. She was totally taken aback by the question, which came more as a fact instead of a question mark. But why would she be led to ask such a question?

“Of course, I am.”

“Hmmm”.

Margaret understood something was amiss. She didn’t want to delay it further, lest the young woman ran out of the house. She rose and walked towards the wooden drawer, assuring no maid was around. She inserted the tiny key into the keyhole, opened the drawer, and picked up the parchment from amidst a hundred other documents of John’s. She closed the drawer and came back to her chair.

“Now, Miss Hale. I want you to see this.” She handed over the paper to Miss Hale.

Margaret took it with her shivering hands. She realized that something terrible was about to happen, or worse, some secret or truth be open in a while. She never felt so scared of Mrs. Thornton before than she was today, at the moment.

Her eyes skimmed through the parchment and the first word that fell on her eyes was “Belfast”. The name of the forbidden ship her dear brother Frederick was positioned on! Her heart thrummed wildly. The sentences that followed below the headline were pretty much the truth she and her parents were hiding for the past many years. That Frederick so and so, son of Mr. Richard Hale… vicar, Helstone, Hampshire… mutiny… reward… so on and so forth.

Margaret felt her body turning into stone. Mrs. Thornton saw that the young lass was trying hard to register what was happening. After a few minutes, she decided to talk openly.

“I won’t mince with my words, Miss Hale. I will talk as open as the day. I saw my maid Jane one day, almost casting off some rubbish into the fire. Man’s belongings mostly- rags, handkerchief, and such sort. It didn’t take me much time to realize that those might belong to her fiancé, a man named Leonards.”

Leonards! Her mind screamed when she heard that name. The man who almost had her brother caught. She felt like she was punched in the gut, her guilt of lying to the inspector was once again becoming strong in her heart.

“I was puzzled, but I didn’t let myself bother with my maid’s personal affairs. But her actions were suspicious. This newspaper article fell from the bag she was holding. She didn’t notice, too busy that she was poking everything on the fire! After she left, I took the paper, mind you, with every intention of giving it back to Jane. But my eyes fell over the words and I couldn’t help but be shocked.”

Margaret knew not how to respond. Should she be thankful that the maid, given her gossiping nature, didn’t notice the contents on the paper? Yes, she had to be grateful for that. If she had seen, she would have definitely let the matter pass to others, and worse, connect the dots and complain to the police station expecting the handsome reward, who in turn would have come to investigate her and her father. What would have followed then, she felt it best to not even imagine.

But Mrs. Thornton was in possession of the truth now. Aware she was that the dragon mother guarded her family like a crow’s nest, and she was too good to interfere and take advantage of others’ personal affairs. Yet, she can’t be sure.

Her thoughts were spiraling one over the other: “This involves my brother’s life and even though he is safe in Cadiz, the place is not too far from London as I had heard Henry say once. If the government got to know about what had transpired, then dear brother might still be captured there or might be lured to come here by trapping me and father. Unthinkable! I will never let father and brother face shame and death. And what would Mrs. Thornton do next with my family secret? Will she let me go? Yes, that must be it. But why then call me to say all this? Obviously, she won’t do all this without reason and purpose. Or worse, would she hold me against the truth and ask me to stay away from her only son or that she will expose and push my family to disgrace?”

Mrs. Thornton sat watching her face contorting, her eyebrows furrowing. She realized that her mind was almost like a war zone, battling with a thousand questions.

“Miss Hale, you there?"

The most that she could do was simply stare at Mrs. Thornton. She was terribly breathless, feeling sweat collect in her brows and forehead. She felt miserable, almost like her skin pinching itself.

“I don’t know what to say. What you read is the truth though”. She managed to utter in a whisper.

“I knew this must be it. Don’t worry, Jane knows nothing of it. I didn’t tell anyone of what I got to know, not even… my son.”

Margaret suddenly felt disappointed. Why? Why Mrs. Thornton but not her son had to get hold of this parchment? Had he come to know of this, he would have immediately understood the truth. But well, it doesn’t matter. Their relationship had gone beyond repair, with him taking back his sentiments right when she had started to form feelings of him in her heart.

“Miss Hale, I know you are flustered and in shock as I was a few days ago. I suppose you are trying to comprehend why and what I would do with this family secret of yours.”

“Yes.”

“I will never breath a word of it to anybody or hold you against it. I wanted to see you confirm what I read, even though this piece of paper was enough evidence. I believe confidently that this must have something to do with your current plight, the recurring gossip being spread about you. If you wish to say anything or speak whatever, feel free to do so. I was never a person of many words and emotions, and this is the most I could do. To listen. I am a mother myself and remembering your mother’s request, I wish to be of some support if you let me be. But then, if you think it not my place to know or interfere, you are rightfully allowed to leave. Stay assured, the secret will stay a secret.”

Margaret was too exhausted mentally now to hold it further. Mrs. Thornton was right enough to say that it was still not her place to pry, but her intentions were good. She was trying hard to keep this conversation civil as well as kind enough, and this was the most she could do. Her defensive nature started to drop, she felt at ease. Willingly or unwillingly, she started to blurt out the entire mishappening. She wanted to put down the burden her heart was holding on, even though she never expected it would be in front of Mrs. Thornton, a firm woman who excelled in hiding her emotions so brilliantly. But today was full of surprises and shock, the dragon mother’s composure showed a tinge of ease and understanding, and of probable sympathy.

She quivered to even be reminded of her brother being deemed as a traitor and mutineer. She spoke with tears blinding her eyes. Mrs. Thornton listened attentively.

“I… I don’t know from where to start even, Mrs. Thornton. My brother Frederick, six years older than me, and I are my parents’ only children. We four were a happy family in Helstone, just us four with a minimal and content life. All that we knew was our vicarage, the church, helping the poor, and such simple pleasures in life. My brother was more like my confidante than a brother. He understood me and doted on his little sister. I never knew such love before. But we grew. His interests fell upon adventures and such sort when finally, he decided that his calling was the sea. Mr. Bell, then suggested he get in touch with certain contacts of his, and he got positioned in this ship named Belfast, belonging to the royalty. Mother was completely against my brother’s decision, she loved him more than anything to lose sight of him even for a minute! Father was equally sorrowful, but he didn’t stop my brother as he knew that he was old enough to discover his passion in life. Some five years back or so, when it was a year after his departure to the sea, oh, I still remember that day as fresh as it happened yesterday. My parents were frustrated though they tried hard to not show it to me. Father got hold of the newspaper, the exact piece that you had got hold of…That was the day I was told everything.”

Mrs. Thornton was listening keenly. She felt a weird sort of pleasure and assurance in knowing Miss Hale’s past. She actually expected Miss Hale to be haughty and insult her for talking about her personal affairs, but instead, she trusted her and talked openly. Mrs. Thornton, who flinched away from her as well as others’ emotions, who believed that displaying emotions was a sign of timidity, now rather felt sympathetic to listen to Miss Hale revealing her family’s problem. The young woman chose to trust her by speaking so, she surmised.

“That must have come as a blow to your parents. I know how it feels to see your only son face such a miserable fate…”

“I understand, Mrs. Thornton. I do. The worse I had to witness was seeing my parents’ relationship almost spiraling down from that day onwards. Mother was not able to blame father wholly for her dear son’s fate. Father, on the contrary, put himself to blame and tried hard to not face my mother. He just wasn’t able to be himself anymore. No one in my family was happy again. We somehow become too individualistic, we lived together as one unit, but Frederick’s absence, although unspoken was always in the back of our minds. Father tried to hold it all for my sake. But mother, she distanced herself from us. She became sick and kept Dixon to herself. I tried hard to make her happy, almost the young girl that I was. Mother’s tastes were similar to my aunt’s, a bit ostentatious. So I even tried to make myself to her standards, though I had to pretend sometimes. But no, nothing helped. She spoke to me often, only often, you see. Her son was facing the charges of a mutiny and will never set foot in England again, which devastated her.”

“I understand how you must have felt.” That was all Mrs. Thornton could say. She suddenly felt too infringed upon herself, she didn’t judge Miss hale for speaking of her secret, but in listening to her opened up her own past wounds- her husband’s death, John’s imminent change from an aspiring student to a mere hand in one of the mills, those days were hard and inevitable. Her own family was similar to the Hales in many ways. She kept herself composed, she tried to.

“What exactly happened to your brother?”

“The captain of the ship belonged to the cruelest sort and he tortured the inhabitants and officers, including women and children in the worst way possible. Some of his offenses and actions cannot even be explained in words, so horrible that they were, as I was told by my mother and father. I can only imagine. My dear brother tried hard to resist the captain when at last he lost his patience. The captain was holding an officer and child to death with his blows! That’s when Frederick declared a mutiny against the captain, and he was supported by every officer on the ship! They became united and threw off the captain’s rule. They locked him up in the ship’s attic, and what followed next, I am not much aware. But my brother or the other officers didn’t take away human life as the captain did. Somehow, the deaths were blamed upon several of the officers, and I just got to know that a few of them were captured and sent to the gallows! Now, the rest, just like my brother are in exile, scattered away from their homeland and families! Think, Mrs. Thornton, think! To stay away from your country knowing you could never set foot and stay apart from your children, wife, parents, and friends! To live every day in fear, knowing that it could be your last day in this world if you get captured!”

The tears came freely and wildly now. She couldn’t hold them back and it was too late to be embarrassed to let her emotions openly.

Mrs. Thornton sat in silence, as still as water. She absorbed Miss Hale’s words and though she couldn’t form a response, she felt the young woman’s grief relatable.

“I can only understand. Where is he living now? And how come the maid’s fiancé got entangled in this affair?”

“Frederick lives in Cadiz, Spain, now. He works for a rich man there. He got engaged to his employer’s daughter and is set to get married soon. I and my father will not be able to be a part of it, sadly. As for Leonards, he was a resident of Helstone. He was a drunkard and always made trouble in the country. He and Frederick were at odds sometimes. He became aware of Frederick’s situation. But that was it. We never saw him again. But we knew recently that he was stirring up trouble, enquiring the officers and such people, to know of my brother’s whereabouts. As you have read in the paper, my brother’s life has a price set by the government. Leonards wanted to get hold of the fortune by informing my brother’s whereabouts to the government. But all that he came to know was our existence here, in Milton. All this happened when my mother was on her death bed. She had asked me, as her one last wish, to help her see her son for the last time. I had to fulfill her wish and wrote to my brother who was in Spain.”

“Oh. You do know that it was a dangerous affair, right? How could Mr. Hale have agreed to this, though it was Mrs. Hale’s final plea?”

“I did the mistake of posting the letter and then informing father. I know that I did a grave mistake but I knew not what to do. It was my mother’s last wish and I couldn’t deprive her of that. The day she made her final wish was one of the few days I had a heart-to-heart talk with her. I promised her to bring Frederick and so did he. He came just a few days before mother’s death, at midnight. Just as Frederick was in Milton, so was Leonards. He saw Dixon accidentally while she had gone to the grocer’s. He enquired her about us and also of Frederick. Dixon is one among us, ever loyal and truthful so she didn’t let the secret out- that Frederick was right at Crampton away from others’ presence.”

“I came to know that Leonards’ death happened near Outwood station almost after the incident of the gossip surrounding you…”

Margaret hesitated to talk about the dangerous memory. This was the most painful part of it. That Mr. Thornton had to see her with her brother in the station and mistake her actions in the most improper way possible. And if that was not enough, she had lied to the inspector, and still, Mr. Thornton helped her by attesting to her innocence and canceling the inquest.

“Mother passed away by midnight that day. Father, brother, and Dixon were all in tremendous grief and shock. But I, despite being sorrowful, had to focus on my brother’s wellbeing. I told him to immediately leave Milton and get back to Spain. He protested, but I didn’t want his life to be risked. Come morning, and people would have to be let known of mother’s death. In such a case, he would be easily caught, and also, Leonards was still loitering in the city. So, I forced him, father agreed to me too. But unfortunately, father was not in a position to accompany Frederick to the station. Even Dixon was wrapped in her grief, she had spent most of her life by my mother’s side. So I had to go with my brother to Outwood. There, suddenly Leonards and my brother started to have an altercation. I was frightened terribly. But the man was as usual drunk heavily. My brother pushed him away and he fell towards the stairs. I saw Leonards then somehow picking himself up and walking away. It was time for my brother to get on the train. We embraced and promised each other to always have the other in our prayers and thoughts. It was the least and most I could do. I never thought we would be seen by your son there."

So this was the truth. How could Mr. Hale, as grievous as he could be, still allow a young daughter to be sent with a man, even though her brother? That too at midnight! She would have definitely come back home all alone. Milton was not a safe city at night, thieves laundered and so did poor women and young girls standing in dark corners offering their bodies to lustful men in return for some money to satiate their and their family hunger. Although it wasn’t her place, she felt terribly annoyed at the absolute sensitive and ignorant nature of the father. A lady of any standard, poor or rich wasn’t supposed to be left unchaperoned at such unsafe a time.

Miss Hale need not explain further, she could very well understand how the sister and brother might have appeared to John. She was in confusion now. Her son mistook Miss Hale’s actions gravely without thinking besides what his eyes saw. That must have surely hurt her pride, rightfully so. But yet, it seemed to be natural for anybody to make sense of such a scene in that manner as her son did. She wasn’t able to keep him at fault, neither Miss Hale.

“I understand what followed next. Miss Hale, you aren’t at fault, I agree. But if you were just a bit sensible at that moment on how your actions might appear…”

“No, Mrs. Thornton. I agree but I will never regret my actions. He was my brother. I don’t want to get ahead myself, but after father, my brother will be my only family. Yet I have no idea when or if at all we will ever meet again. One won’t understand my plight if they aren’t facing what I and my family faced.”

There, she was back her haughty and bold self. It was expected. She will never regret her actions if her reasoning believed her to be on the right. She was proved right, she tried to help the people of Milton but all that she received in return was malicious gossip spreading in her name.

“Fine, I understand. Thank you for telling me. I realize how tough it might have been, to face such trauma all alone. You see, many of the things that you told weren’t completely lost on me. Your situation is relatable, something I myself faced many years back…”

Mrs. Thornton felt embarrassed now. She had her own burdens locked deep in her heart to assure they never came out. Not even her son John and daughter Fanny were successful in seeing the mother’s vulnerable side. Yet now, this young woman who she had become acquainted with only almost a year ago, who she hardly crossed paths seems to have pricked her sorrow.
Margaret was already aware of the Thorntons’ past.

“I have heard father talking of Mr. Thornton and his past… I might have had some fixed opinions but I admire and respect his work for bringing back the family to a good position from his hardwork.”

Her words added solace to Mrs. Thornton. If it was before, she would have snorted and disbelieved her words. Now to hear her speak so about her son made her question if the young lass had feelings for John. Admiration and respect only needed some prodding, in the right direction to turn into love and compassion.

“I am glad to hear you say so. You see, I know very well of loss myself… it is painful but it makes you strong if you are ready that is.”

“That’s true. I believe the pain will go one day.”

“I don’t know if it ever will. I am not too optimistic by nature. I believe that the loss of a loved one stays within you, almost becoming a part of you. As for the pain, it doesn’t go away. It only becomes numb. Difficult to forgive someone who left you and your children all alone. And to see the only son turn from a young lad into the man of the house, leaving school… no, it’s painful every day, though my son has risen to a good position and is respected everywhere.”

Mrs. Thornton was reminded of those dreadful days of the past. She felt blinded by tears but had to stop herself. She still held on to some dignity and letting herself be emotional in front of a young woman was not tolerable.

Margaret realized that it was best not to speak. She saw Mrs. Thornton trying to control herself. That she spoke this much to her was nothing less of a miracle in itself. She just felt to say one last thing, before leaving.

“I think you should forgive and not be too controlling on yourself. Letting out your feelings is not an act of timidity. Sometimes, it speaks of strength. It will help.”

It was time. Margaret realized that almost an hour and a half had passed already. She had to be at home to help Dixon and Mary. She rose to leave.

“Mrs. Thornton, I thank you for inviting me. I must leave now.”

“Very well, Miss Hale.”

Both women rose from their seats. Margaret left to the door when she suddenly stood looking into the void. Mrs. Thornton was baffled.

“What is it, Miss Hale? Do you wish to say something more?”

Silence.

Mrs. Thornton didn’t know what had happened. Did she fall ill all of a sudden? Was she still scared that she will expose the truth? She had assured her that she will never do such a thing. She saw Margaret turn slowly and face her.

“No, I said everything I had to ever say. But I think I have something that I must return back to its owner.”

“And may I know what is it?”

Margaret took a deep breath before letting her hands skim through her pocket. She clutched the gloves one last time inside her pocket before taking them out. She held it tight before walking towards Mrs. Thornton, extending her hand.

Mrs. Thornton looked at what Miss hale was holding. She was stunned beyond belief. Her son’s gloves in the possession of Miss Hale! How of all things in the world did his gloves end up with her? And when had it happened because her son was searching for it for almost months now.

“Miss Hale, these are my son’s gloves I believe.”

“They are. He left them in my home when he had come to… I mean, the day after the riot… I never got a favourable chance to return it back to him. I saw the maids searching for them and telling how important it was for him. I should have returned it sooner, I apologize. You can tell your son that it was found by the maids or misplaced somewhere here on the shelves. Thank you. I bid you good day.”

She rushed out of the room as soon as she finished speaking. She didn’t turn back once to see the bewildered dragon mother.

Chapter Text

Mr. Thornton was hardly able to get his work done. The least he could do was check out some pending orders, revise invoices, get statements from potential investors, thanks to Mr. Bell. But every time he tried to concentrate, his eyes darted to the window of his mill house. For once, his legs automatically walked towards the mill house. He simply wasn’t able to stay in his office when she was up there- conversing with his mother. His thoughts went to his mother, whether she would keep her promise of being civil to Miss Hale. She was already hurt too much by his words. His mother throwing barbs at her would further complicate the issue.

At first, minutes after she was led into the house by the valet, he noticed her standing by the window overlooking the mill grounds. Her gaze was fixed, she hardly moved. Mr. Thornton saw a glimmer of sadness and uncertainty in her. He knew that she was still grieving her mother’s death and more possibly, missing the presence of her lover. This sudden thought irked him like a thorn. He cleared his head but in vain. He cannot bear the thought of her thinking of another man who wasn’t himself. He was overcome by the same old envy and jealousy.

He sighed in exhaustion and sorrow. Everything was crippling around him. Ever since the day of the Outwood incident, he felt unexplainable tiredness, physically and mentally. He wanted to run away from everything and everyone, even from his Margaret, even from his mill.

As for the mill, it was still in danger but there was still hope if he was energetic enough to cling to it. He didn’t receive another response from the sly Mr. Latimer ever since their last conversation in his home. He was annoyed to even remember his marriage proposal. He was not the one to get trapped by a woman to save his enterprise. He was too proud to quiver and bend that way.

He realized that it was time and Miss Hale would be coming out anytime soon. He kept himself ready, to immediately meet her on the mill grounds. He knew not what he would tell her. He felt that he must apologize for his harsh words- for telling her that his feelings were over and was calling her untruthful. But then, he also felt he was right in having spoken so, hurt that he was with jealousy and unreciprocated love. He was terribly stunned that she chose to lie in order to save a man. He decided to better get it done with, to not lose the little of the good opinion she might still have of him in her mind.

Miss Hale was coming down the stairs. She was practically running through the steps, a bit fast. His mind raced to his mother and realized that he must have been proved correct; she must have crossed her limit and humiliated her probably.

He rushed out of his office urgently. The workers stood staring at him before returning to their work stations.

“Miss Hale!”

Margaret turned to see Mr. Thornton, whom she wished, now more than ever. She cannot wait to rush back to her home and get herself locked in the solitude of her room and ponder. She was feeling empty after giving up the gloves to his mother. And seeing him face to face now only added to her sadness and anxiety.

“Good afternoon, Mr. Thornton. I had come to visit your mother.”

“Yes, I was told by mother.”

So he knew and still stayed in his mill? She felt a stabbing pain in her heart. Margaret expected to not be in his presence but the fact that he stayed away on purpose was not lost on her. Maybe, he was trying to avoid her for once and for all, as it might not do good for him to be seen with her.

Mr. Thornton stood staring at her. He noticed her face and realized that she was thinking though he knew not about what.

“Did everything go well, Miss Hale? I mean, the talk with my mother…”

“Oh, yes of course. It was good to meet her after so many days.”

Mr. Thornton sighed in relief. Her words were not in jest, so that meant that both women did manage to strike a formal if not too cordial a conversation. That was more than enough. Now, he wanted to get away with his apology, lest he changes his mind once again.

“Miss Hale, I wanted to apologize for my words to you, once- when we were discussing with your father and the second when I.. I mean when we were talking alone…”

“John!”

The loud screech suddenly made the two heads turn. Mr. Thornton was shocked and annoyed to see his sister waving at her while she was walking towards them. What irked him more was the other young woman who was accompanying her now. Needless to say, it was Miss Latimer.

“John! Shouldn’t you be working in the mill? Oh, Miss Hale, you too here! Of course, I was told you will be visiting mother today.”

Margaret felt uncomfortable beyond the limit. She wanted to wither away and just disappear. However, she wasn’t the only one to feel so. The mill master felt the same.

Both of them greeted the two women. Seeing Miss Hale and her brother standing together made Fanny grin slyly. As for Miss Latimer, she was vexed. She felt that it was her place to stand next to him, just as she stood next to him when they were met by the conceited and penurious Miss Hale. It felt beyond good to clutch Mr. Thornton’s arm and walk away in front of Miss Hale.

Both friends watched Miss Hale in her monotonous somber looks. Yes, Miss Hale was still in mourning, but who expected that her mourning attire would be so out of turn and fashion? They eyed each other, assuring their judgment was felt by Miss Hale.

Mr. Thornton was beyond angry at his sister for having brought the silly friend of hers. When they had met Miss Hale and Mr. Bell on the street that day, he noticed Miss Latimer casting looks at Miss Hale, but he didn’t think it weird. He knew that Miss Latimer was too shy of a creature, or that’s what she showed it outwardly. But now when he noticed her, he was clearly able to see her almost seething with jealousy and judging Miss Hale from top to toe. It was as if both she and his sister were judging the value of everything adorning Miss Hale, right from the hat to the footwear. On the other hand, he glanced at Miss Hale to see her reaction but was met with uncertainty clouding her face. Of course, she was too good to judge people by their attire and looks. She was different. And now, she wanted to run away.

“It’s nice to see you, Fanny”, muttered Mr. Thornton. Even though I had seen you just two days ago gossipping about Miss Hale, he thought to himself. “You too, Miss Latimer”, he said for the sake of manners. He suspected if Miss Hale would think that he and the banker’s daughter were forming an attachment and fervently hoped that she would not fall for such a thought. Now, it didn’t matter to him if she had a lover, but it surely mattered what she thought of him.

“Well yes, of course, you should be glad to see me and her of course!” Fanny spoke loudly with that impish grin on her face. “Ask me why, John!”

“Why?”, Mr. Thornton asked with an edge. He wanted to get done with these two tittering parrots, almost usher them both into his home himself, run back and talk endlessly to Miss Hale.

“Because Ann has brought sweets! She had made them herself, bonbons, cakes, and what’s the other one... Marshmallows, yes, that’s it… it’s quite new and she easily got hold of the recipe and made it for you and mother! Isn’t it nice of her?”, she added with a wink. Miss Latimer rejoiced and let out her peevish smile.

“To hell with sweets!”- Mr. Thornton wanted to scream loudly but he couldn’t. He was just on the verge of apologizing to Miss Hale, and also try asking if he can walk her back home. “What’s that adage they say often- yes, “speak of the devil and he doth appear!” Ah, what timing! And what about Mr. Latimer? Hadn’t he told his daughter of my decision? Had he told, she wouldn’t have come at all. Or maybe she still would. Fanny would definitely not lose hold of her until her friend is barged into the mill house as her sister-in-law.”

“John, you there? Already thinking of eating them, eh?” Fanny teased and grinned. Miss Latimer was enjoying Fanny’s teasing and the look of discomfort in Miss Hale’s eyes. Fanny enjoyed mocking her brother, now more than ever, in front of Miss Hale. She was immediately met by her brother looking daggers at her.

“Mrs. Watson. Miss Latimer, nice to see you. I hope you are doing well. I had come to visit Mrs. Thornton.” Margaret managed to speak.

“I am all fine, marriage life suits me, don’t you think? Yet, I cannot wait for another marriage to happen, haha. Mother approves of Miss Latimer and I thought it would improve her mood.”

“I see. I suppose I should leave now. Goodbye, Mrs. Watson, Miss Latimer.” Margaret said and looked at Mr. Thornton. The words weren’t able to come out, she simply wasn’t able to bid him adieu. She instead sprinted out of the mill grounds and in no time, she was out on the streets walking home fast.

“We should go too, Ann. And John, come home soon instead of rotting in your dirty mill.” The two women then left for the mill house. He saw Miss Latimer casting her usual coquettish sly smile at him again, which only made him flinch.

He was exasperated. He was now more than convinced that Miss Hale was probably suspecting him with Miss Latimer. His too good of a sister made sure of it. It was another wound to his sorrow.

***

Mrs. Thornton’s thoughts were clouded with confusion. Well not confusion exactly, she rather felt certain, as if most of her doubts were solved. Miss Hale had a brother and it was with him that she was seen by John. The gossip was meaningless even. What came as a bonus was her son’s gloves.

Her reason was clear enough- that John had left them at her house the day after the riot, that is, on the day he had gone to propose to her. But why hold on to them till these many months? They were at odds constantly, but she could have given them to her father asking him to hand it over to John. Why not do that? Why wait for a “favourable” chance to return it? It was unlikely and also highly improper for a woman to be in possession of a man’s belongings unless he was her father, brother, husband, or at least her intended.

What baffled the dragon mother was the fact that she had kept her son’s gloves in her pocket. Just before some time, she must have come to know of the maids searching for it. Would she have given the gloves to her if she was unaware of John and the entire house searching for them? By the faint lilac and lavender smell from the gloves, Mrs. Thornton very well realized that the young lass must have never parted away from it. The masculine smell- of musk and cedarwood was no longer present in the gloves, replaced by a feminine smell. Why would Miss Hale keep them if she had no interest in her son?

And what’s more, she clearly showed Mrs. Thornton how much she respected her son. Her words were decisive and as if it came as a hard lesson to her. She expressed an air of understanding of her son’s hard work and all he had to do to raise the family back to its standard in Milton. Her words reminded Mrs. Thornton of that night when John asked her if any other woman, who was not Miss Hale, would understand him. That he wanted to marry someone who saw him as John, and not as Mr. Thornton- the wealthy and handsome mill master. His expectation and Miss Hale’s words today matched well. If miracles do exist, then Mrs. Thornton prayed that these two find a way together and live as man and wife.

Mrs. Thornton didn’t know what to do next. What should she tell John? He would definitely come and ask about their conversation. And he will also question the maids about the gloves. If she didn’t tell him about all this, he would be extremely upset and furious at her when he gets to know of all this himself, by chance.

Her thoughts were interrupted by her daughter and her friend.

“I should brace myself for some titterin’ for the next one hour or two”, Mrs. Thornton thought to herself sarcastically before greeting them.

***

Back at Crampton, Mr. Bell and Mr. Hale were conversing with each other. While Mr. Hale continued to be his usual self, Mr. Bell saw every sign of distress and most importantly fear. Fear concerning his daughter’s future. He expressed it at times, but the rest of the while, he hid it under his mind. Often at times, Mr. Hale talked of how in reminiscing about his son, he missed considering the well-being of his daughter and wife. Maria was dead, but Margaret still has a life to live.

As an escape from the busy town life, Mr. Bell suggested a trip to Oxford. Mr. Hale’s face lit up immediately but he was confused about Margaret. The former suggested that they would ask her if she wished to accompany them, if not, she would rather stay with Dixon and spend some time for herself. Poor Margaret was herself too much involved in the chores of the house, she too must prefer some time of her own. Mr. Hale agreed to the idea and decided to talk to Margaret later.

As his dear friend, Mr. Bell finally decided once and for all to get the truth from Margaret. It was absolutely meaningless to force Thornton to confess what exactly was wrong. That man was anyway too invested in his own mind and enterprise. Thus, Margaret must be asked of the entire situation, and if she too refuses to admit, he would make her spill the beans at least for her father’s sake.

“Where is Margaret, Richard? Off to Princeton? But I see Mary here.”

“Nay, she has gone to meet Mrs. Thornton. She was invited by her today. She will be at home soon.”

“Oh, I see. I hope the stern lady didn’t scare the child. Not that Margaret would cower in front of anyone.”

“Haha, I only hope Margaret didn’t scare John’s mother!”

Both men laughed heartily. They discussed about Margaret and the upcoming Oxford trip for a little while, before Mr. Hale excused himself to the Lyceum Hall. Mr. Bell eagerly waited for Margaret.

***

Margaret felt calm at last once she was back at home. She realized that her father had just gone to Lyceum Hall. Dixon was busy doing the laundry while Mary informed her that Mr. Bell was waiting for her in the drawing-room.

“Good afternoon, Mr. Bell. I see that you were waiting for me.”

“Yes, dear. Come, take a seat.”

Margaret witnessed an air of trepidation, yet once again. Was Mr. Bell trying to talk to her about something? She felt exhausted by letting out too much to Mrs. Thornton already. Now facing Mr. Bell was another gigantic task. Yet, she maintained her composure before Mr. Bell started to speak.

Mr. Bell tried talking about random things before setting out to talk about Thornton to Margaret. Her face, as expected, turned confused and sour.

“My dear, I know that I must be interfering unnecessarily and hurting you more. But it is what it is. I tried asking Thornton what was wrong, but nay, that man too much proud and vain that he is, hardly answered me. Not to forget that inevitable scowl of his! I am only trying to help, Margaret.”

Margaret knew that her godfather was being kind and trying to bring them both together. But what use was it? The problem has gone beyond repair and now, it was meaningless to pinch at old wounds which needed time to heal.

“Mr. Bell, I assure you… that it’s nothing much, not even worth mentioning. I mean, what happened was just another argument between us about workers and the mill. My ideas were too knowledgeable for his tastes. That’s all there is to it…”

Mr. Bell looked at her for a minute. This was becoming difficult. Margaret can be stubborn at times, especially when it comes to Thornton. Yet, he had to do it for his friend, her father.

“I might be too old to understand the likes of young people, but that doesn’t mean that I don’t see lovers when I see one! Now, Margaret, I realize that you as well as him want to put everything behind you all. Both of you have all the time in the world to bicker about mills and philosophy and such sort, but hardly a time to speak openly. I assure you what puts you two apart might be just a small piece of information gone wrong. What’s more, I had, for quite some time, wanted to talk to you about Richard.”

“Papa? Why, is anything wrong? Is he not well?” Margaret asked with fright.

“No my dear. All is well, but then again, it’s not. Your father is struggling with his own guilt and grief as well. He thinks about you dear. Your future.”

Margaret knew not how to respond. She was putting off such a conversation with her father for days. That has only led to her father confiding his fears and thoughts to his friend.

“I understand, Mr. Bell,” Margaret confessed in a whisper. She sat fidgeting her fingers, head bowed.

“Margaret, I do realize that you too have your own burdens to bear. It might not be feasible for you to let it out, especially to me, but it is not prudent when it also involves others’ lives as well.
If you still feel uncomfortable, then I completely understand. I shall not speak a word of it again.”

Margaret felt it better to confess everything. Her father trusted in him immensely and she found him as nothing less of a fatherly figure herself. More so, she had to be concerned for her father though the matter was out of hand.

“No, Mr. Bell. I shall talk of it. Though I know not from where to start…”

***

Mr. Thornton tried to distract himself. There were several things to be done- getting the weekly reports discussed with Higgins and Williams, checking the book of accounts, investigating the orders, revising the bills and invoices, and whatnot! The tasks kept piling on top of the other for the last two weeks. No amount of pressure was able to pull the master into matters of utmost importance. True, Higgins proved to be the best workman. He did every work with patience and hard work. The same was with Williams. He was thankful for them both, now more than ever. But he couldn’t burden them with works that were meant for his attention alone.

He decided to finish writing the letters to his clients. After finishing his rounds, he sat and quickly finished writing. He handed them over to Williams to get them posted. The next task was to revise the invoices and file them properly.

He stood before the mighty shelves to get the respective invoices. Just then, he noticed that a few documents were missing, when finally he realized that he had carried those documents the last time he had gone to Crampton. After their discussion, he had attended the meeting with the other masters at the club. He remembered that he had gone empty-handed, which meant that he must have left his files at the Hales’ residence.

Mr. Thornton let out a sigh. He needed those documents, though not urgently. His first thought was to send someone else to the Hales and get them to him. But he rejected the thought. He felt it better to go and get them himself. His mind agreed to this idea as they were significant files and not to be trusted with someone else. But his heart knew that he would be going himself just so he could get to see Miss Hale once again. Why, he could also try apologizing and offer her a friendship of sorts, to finally put all their differences behind. Mr. Hale might not be at home but at Lyceum if he was right. Dixon would snort as always before getting into the kitchen. That would leave ample time to converse with Miss Hale.

He corrected his sleeves, fetched his coat and hat. He informed his overseer and set out to Crampton, his mind forming sentences of apology.

***

Mr. Bell couldn’t wait to hear the exact truth from Margaret. He saw her becoming nervous. Her mind was struggling to start speaking and thus, he decided to best start the conversation himself.

“Let’s start from the canceled inquest. Shall we?”

Margaret’s jaw dropped.

“Mr. Bell, how did you come to know of it? I hope father isn’t aware of it!”

“No, I assure you he isn’t. It was Dixon who told me a few days back. She told me everything that occurred when I was not present- of a lousy drunkard named Leonards causing trouble with Dixon, asking about Fred, and also of his death. I was shocked to know that an inspector came to enquire you. What surprised me was that the mill master seems to have canceled the inquest.”

“Yes. He talked with the inspector and saved me from it. I would rather think not of what would have happened had he not intervened…”

“Let’s not think of such a thing then. You didn’t do anything wrong, my dear. You were too strong to do what you could to save Frederick. But what still remains a mystery to me is the drift between you and Thornton.”

Margaret sighed before getting into the crux of the entire issue.

“He saw me with my brother at Outwood station that night.”

Chapter Text

“He saw me with my brother at Outwood station that night.”

The words fell upon the ears like a sudden revelation, almost like an epiphany. For Mr. Bell, it resolved the last of his doubts. She had said enough, and what transpired next would be pretty assumable- that Thornton must have interpreted it wrong, seeing Margaret in an unfavorable light, all of a sudden. That man must have put himself in turmoil over what he saw, tossed his mind and heart till they were sore with envy and shock.

“Hmm, so he must have thought that you were traipsing with a lover at such an ungodly hour”, said Mr. Bell, more like a statement than a question. Margaret nodded her head slightly in return.

She stood facing the wall, careful not to let her godfather see her visage. Her eyes were brimming with tears, for the second time that day. She was beyond exhausted by the irony of it all, more so because she was proclaiming the exact truth to everyone except one. Mr. Thornton.

She continued further, “But that was not all. Leonards had ended up in the station, right before us! I and Fred were stunned to see the drunkard. He started to create a fuss and screaming incoherently. He clenched his fists and held my brother’s collar. We were scared that it might gain the attention of the station master and other people. Frightened, Fred, in self-defence, pushed Leonards. He staggered back and lost his strength. He fell over the flight of stairs, and the next minute I saw, he sulked and walked away. After a few moments, Fred boarded the train and just… went away, while I stood there thinking about when I would ever meet him again in life.”

“I can only understand how sorrowful it must have been to both of you. But did you see Thornton again by any chance? I know well that it might not do either of you good to be seen together at such a time. But surely he wouldn’t have just left you there alone?”

“He went. He just went away. I searched for him frantically in hopes that I might at least clear the misunderstanding then and there. But he was nowhere to be seen. I walked home alone, afraid and fearful as I was in the dark.”

Both people were silent for a while. Mr. Bell condemned Thornton’s actions in his mind though, he couldn’t entirely blame him. Even though both people hardly had a civil conversation, Mr. Bell had been watching Thornton for the past fifteen years. He knew well of his character, of his self-denial and too preserved a nature. As for Margaret, he knew that she was completely blameless. Chance and circumstances were not in her favor at that time. He repented now more than ever, to have suggested Milton to the Hales at all. Maria was always sick for so many years, so her departure would have occurred anytime anywhere, though her death may have been prolonged. As for Richard, he hardly cared about a place as long as he had pupils to teach. That’s all he could ask for. But Margaret, born in the serene country, brought up in the sophisticated circles of London, she was now stuck in a city that was uninviting. Yet, she tried to prevail and thrive, despite the unwelcome she received here by many, except for people like Thornton and the Higgins. He lamented and sympathised with her.

“I know that Frederick’s situation is not something to be discussed with others. Yet, Richard trusts Thornton. That’s what he said a few days ago as well. But you seemed to have stopped him from conveying the truth to him? Yes, he is the magistrate, but Thornton can be trusted unlike any other…”

“I agree. At that point, I was certain to not let the truth be known to anyone. He is the magistrate and I know all too well that he will stand for the truth. Yes, he would support us in this case, but it was Frederick’s secret! I still couldn’t come to confess it to Mr. Thornton without Frederick’s assurance. At least, this was the reason I told myself.”

She stopped here for a little while, sighed in contemplation and continued- “But after I put myself to thinking, I realised that it was not the only reason. To be honest, I wanted Mr. Thornton to be out of this entire issue at least till Frederick reaches Spain again. Not only for my brother’s safety, but for Mr. Thornton's as well… If he had come to know of Frederick’s arrival before, he would have surely insisted on offering his assistance, at least due to his respect for father. I didn’t want him to compromise his position for us, and more so, there were still chances of getting caught in the process. Frederick’s life is doomed to be unpardonable by law. But it wouldn’t do for Mr. Thornton to be pulled into trouble as well when he had been so helpful to us ever since we had started living here… I am not entirely unaware of his hard work and life. I didn’t want him to be faced with misery, and thereby push his family to disgrace for assisting us, if so we are caught. I remember his mother speaking proudly of him and though I thought them too proud and vain then, I now realise how earnest and tough their lives have been. I couldn’t see him losing back what he earned so rightfully with his integrity and respect in society. I didn’t want Mrs. Thornton to face the exact same suffering as my mother did.”

Her thoughts astounded Mr. Bell, who was now wondering at the extent to which the young lady thought of the well-being of everyone around her. She was justified in her thoughts and actions. Had it been some other woman, they would have still not risked their honour for their family. But here was a woman who fulfilled her mother’s last wish, cared for her father, and assured the safe departure of her mutineer brother, all the while losing herself in the process.

But a sudden question entered his mind- how did Margaret come to be investigated for Leonards’ death? Obviously, Thornton wouldn’t go to the extent of reporting her presence that night of the drunkard’s death to the police. No, he was too good for that. Magistrate he might be, but for Margaret, he wouldn’t have led her to be caught. And wasn’t he the one who saved her from the inquest, as Dixon had said that day?

“So Thornton holds you against two circumstances- one, that you were in company of a gentleman so late at night, and second, that you had to lie in favour of your brother to save him from the inquest. But then, how did you come to be entangled with Leonards’ death?”

“Yes. As for the inquest, I was seen that night not just by Mr. Thornton, but by… some few others as well… unfortunately… by the grocer and all… it led to people gossipping… Oh Mr. Bell, what did I do to deserve this? I tried to stand for my brother, but I never imagined all this! I pray fervently every single day that the rumours don’t reach father, because he is already devastated with guilt due to mother’s death. I hardly care for people’s opinion except for one person’s- Mr. Thornton, of course. It is so hurtful to stand in his presence like a timid coward creature who has done an abominable irreparable mistake, though I have done no such thing!”

The tears came freely now. She sobbed softly thinking about what all she faced in the past few months, and how she had to relive the misery every day. Mr. Bell stood watching her in silence, for he was too moved and angered by the injustice of it all. That people were spreading gossips about Margaret complicated the situation immensely, why, this city had started to tarnish her honour without any remorse.

“My dear, this problem can be corrected in only one way. To tell the truth to him. If you feel so perturbed by his opinion of you, let’s change it for once and for all. He will then realise, surely he must, how foolish and judgmental he had been!”

“No, please. I did try to convey the truth, but I believe it has gone beyond the chance. I pulled this misery over myself and got rewarded duly thus. There’s no point in confessing my brother’s existence to him now, not when his affections seem to be moved elsewhere…”

Margaret stopped at that. It might be no secret to the ever sly and observant Mr. Bell that both Thornton and Margaret had some feelings for each other, but to speak of it openly to him was not proper. But would he leave it at that?

No, for he quipped back asking- “Ah, so you do care for him! I knew that much. As for his affections being lost and offered to someone else, if that’s what you mean, I am absolutely sure that you are mistaken, my dear. He cares for you like every lovesick fool in all the classics that I have read. Jealous and angry he might have been, but that must be due to his love being unreciprocated. He was never the one to consider himself high, at least not the way gentlemen consider themselves to be amongst women. His pride and confidence is the result of his enterprise and hard work. But beyond that, he is reserved.”

“I knew that. I was too moved by this city’s ways and trying to adjust to the misery and dreadful lives at first, while seeing another class of people living in comfort surrounded by colourful wallpapers and such pretentious luxury! I considered him as one of the latter too. But when I finally understood his character, or at least tried to, he himself proclaimed that he has moved on.”

“He told you that?”

“He did.”

“And what makes you think that he cares for someone else?”

Now this was the question she felt it best to ignore. The thought that she was trying to receive love just as another woman was unbearable. She knew well that Miss Latimer was the typical finicky woman who vied for a wealthy husband just for name and position in society, while she craved to be loved for what she was. But the difference was not to be told by her, but to be understood by the opposite person. She wouldn’t stoop to that level.

“I don’t know. It’s just that I feel and heard things… I don’t know how true they are, but… well, it is what it is.”

“Why do I think it must be the banker’s daughter? Miss Latimer.”

Mr. Bell was not going to leave until every shred of the issue was discussed.

Margaret, wiping her tears, said- “Yes”.

“True that the Latimers and Thorntons are good business and family friends. But nothing beyond that, especially not in the way you imagine, dear. Obviously, who wouldn’t wish to get Thornton married to their daughter? Whatever designs, as they call, must be from the opposite party and definitely not from Thornton. Thornton might be too reserved, but still a man of sense. And a man of sense doesn’t wish for a silly wife. You know well who is silly and who’s not!”

“I don’t know. I feel that he must have felt hurt immensely by my rejection and brazen act, as he thinks, that night. And I am told that his mother favors her… Overall, I know well that my steadfast ways will not be liked by him or any one for that matter. No, I won’t change my ways for I act according to my conscience. But who is to say that everyone might desire the same in another person? And didn’t you say that they are good friends as well. So, it’s not impossible.”

Mr. Bell didn’t agree with what she said, but his mind was put in caution. Was there any chance that Thornton might have changed his heart? His mill was in dire circumstances yet, and marriages did occur like another business proposition, exchanging money and wealth. And moreover, Mrs. Thornton always preferred those meek and sly women who tittered her home in hopes of catching her son’s attention. Surely, the gossip must have fallen on her ears as well, and taking it as a chance, she could try changing her son’s interests towards a woman she preferred to have as her daughter-in-law.

“I still hope it must not be the case. But either way, don’t you think that he must be told the truth? He deserves that much, dear. He shouldn’t live with such an opinion of you, not when you were totally virtuous.”

“I thought the same, but as I said it’s too late. Please promise me that you won’t tell him the truth, at least not until I ask you to! What’s more, he is determined to look into the future, so maybe such an opinion might help him to forget me. I know well that I shouldn’t let him think about me like that. But when I think from his side, for him… I feel that it must be the way. And moreover, his mother knows the truth now. Maybe in future, she might tell him, although that’s unlikely. Or he could get to know it somehow later, now, however, isn’t the right time.”

“How did his mother know the truth?”

“She had come to know of my brother’s existence a few days ago. She asked me to visit her so that she gets to know the truth from me.”

“But how? Who told her?”

“She seems to have got hold of an old newspaper article from her maid’s belongings. One that mentioned the exact incident of the mutiny led by my brother in the ship, and how he was deemed wanted by the government. I couldn’t deny when she was so confident, as the paper clearly mentioned of father’s name, position, and place of living as well. I am just grateful that the paper was unseen by anyone else. She might not inform the truth to her son, but she would definitely keep it a secret.”

While she continued staring out the window, Mr. Bell noticed all of a sudden, someone else’s presence just beside the door of the drawing-room. He knew not who the intruder was exactly, but prayed that it was not Richard. The man was already drowned in guilt and loss. Now if he comes to know of his daughter’s honour being tarnished in the society, he might not bear the trauma.

Mr. Bell moved a little to see an all too familiar tall man, riddled with shock and sadness standing there. Right behind him was a distraught and confused Mary standing, not knowing what to do.

He turned his attention back to Margaret and asked her one last question in a definite voice-

“Fine, just answer this Margaret- do you care for him? Do you think you love him like a woman feels for a man?”

After some inevitable amount of silence, came the reply from her: “I do love him. I really do. I just wish he trusted me as I do.”

“Well, then. Let’s put the matter to rest. And yes, I promise you that Mr. Thornton might not know the truth from me. I am assured that he must come to know of the entire situation from you”, he said with a twinkle in his eye.

Chapter Text

He walked for so long, his mind distorted with her voice, her sweet, honeyed and husky voice. He had rushed out of the Hales’ residence as fast as he could.

He didn’t know how to feel. Hell, he had forgotten how and what to feel ever since that dreadful night he had been at Outwood station. But now, it was again so different, and his mind was in sixes and sevens.

Truth was that now, he was rewarded with the most blissful gift he could ever ask, yet alongwith unforgivable guilt and remorse.

He, who was ushered in by Mary to get his files, never expected in a hundred days of what he heard from Miss Hale. Right when both of them had neared the drawing-room in the Crampton household, some incoherent yet unmistakable words fell upon his ears. Mary was about to excuse and enter, to inform Mr. Bell and Miss Margaret of the visitor, when the mill master waved a hand, signalling Mary to halt.

And thank heavens, he did that.

Decency and manners obviously commended that he should not eavesdrop and let the people know of his presence. But he simply couldn’t. It took him a while to make sense of what he had just heard, almost as if his taut and strong body turned into stone, before recovering its flesh and bone. The words fell upon the ears like a sudden revelation, almost like an epiphany.

“He saw me with my brother at Outwood station that night”.

As telltale as the words seemed, Mr. Thornton couldn’t control his emotions and felt as if he’s stuck in some sort of mental delusion. Brother? Outwood? That distinctly meant that Miss Hale and Mr. Bell were conversing about him having seen her at midnight with a gentleman, the one he had been internally raving about all these months with seething envy and jealousy.

Gentleman.

Brother.

She has a brother.

It was her brother.

It was her brother whom she had so lovingly embraced that night at Outwood.

He continued walking at his usual fast determined pace. He was a mile out of Crampton street. Though he was utterly broken, he felt overwhelmed by powerful and unbearable happiness. When he had heard her daintily confessing that she loved him, he felt such pure animal-like joy for the first time ever in his life.

But did he wish to hear her confess her love in such a manner? Obviously not.

As he heard her explaining about everything to her godfather, right from her brother Frederick, to Leonards, the inquest, him interpreting the worst of her; he felt content to know the exact truth, and more so definitely proud and honoured that she did feel remorse to be so mistrusted by him. He exclaimed to himself that he did have a place of significance in her life, though she wouldn't love him. It felt so strange yet so important. That minute, he told himself that he would be content till the end of his life, to have known the truth, for disgraceful and wrong she could never be.

His mind was asking itself a dozen other questions: why didn’t Mr. Hale inform him of his son? Hadn’t he been trustworthy enough? Why hide the existence of his son and what dire need had he to escape like a thief at midnight? He still condemned the brother’s actions for letting his sister accompany him at such a time. And then, the scene with Leonards. He knew that this drunkard was causing trouble for quite some days when this incident happened. But he didn’t mind, as he trusted the police to take care of such petty matters, busy that he was with mill matters.

While his mind was still like a raging sea making sense of the discovery, he couldn’t help but feel his lips curve into a sudden grin. His heart beat loud; he was surprised that the people in the house weren’t able to hear it. That was the effect her words forged within him.

What followed next was Miss Hale, bless her, explaining to Mr. Bell about the happenings of the night. Every vein in his body was now united, blood rushing in his ears turning them hot and fiery red, as he made an effort to not miss a single word of what she said. He stood grinning like a fool, which amused and frightened Mary at the same time. She thought that the master would die of madness, grinning like he just hit a jackpot.

He heard her sobbing softly, trying hard to not let out her cries loudly. And that was the point when his grin vanished and his mind finally started to show himself what damage he had caused to her.

When he heard Mr. Bell asking her if she saw him again that night, as it wouldn’t be decent enough to leave her alone at such an ungodly hour, and her responding in return that he just went away before she could ever clear the misunderstanding, he felt the heaviness of his own actions on him.

Mr. Bell, as always striked the correct question, and he wondered why he let his envy rule his conscience that night. Yes, the old man rightly pointed out that it would be improper for both him and Miss Hale to be seen together that night, yet he still should have at least made sure that she returned home safely. He could have sneered and snarled like a stray cat at her, but going away leaving her, his one and only love, like that at such an unsafe time? What would have happened had she been surrounded by burglars or the worst men? She would have been hurt and beyond that he better not imagine what might have happened.

He, till today morning, even when he was on his way to Crampton to get his files, knew too well that Miss Hale would never love him. But when he heard her reasons for not confessing the truth to him, he was totally moved. To hear from her that she cared for him in a way he wished to be, that she respected his hard work to bring back the family to one piece after his father’s death showed him how she revered him. He was spellbound and realized that she had kept him in the dark for his and his family’s sake, to save them from potential disgrace. He had been too unkind to her, when she only showed him kindness. This was unexpected, and to be honest, like a blow to him.

And then again, he was at least correct about Margaret thinking that he started to form an attachment with Miss Latimer. His ever so practical mind tried to become angry at her for thinking so whilst every minute he only kept daydreaming of her. He had never loved a woman before, why, he never thought about any woman the way he thought about Margaret. He kept his attention fixed in his mill and had almost come to decide that he shall live as a bachelor, and contribute day and night to the progress of Milton.

He had decided that he would not marry any of those women who tittered around him for his attention, before he even decided that he loved Margaret and wanted to become her husband. “Wasn’t she wrong too, in thinking of me as having formed an attachment just as it was natural of me to have misjudged her and her brother? Why couldn’t she see beyond my pretence of anger and envy?” He asked himself. The minute these questions arose in his mind, he dismissed them as utterly foolish, for foolish and selfish that he was all these months. She had every right and inclination to have thought that way, when he had readily given way to such a thing in the first place, hadn’t he? He called her untruthful when he lied unashamedly to her of moving on. What he meant by “looking into the future” and what she made sense of it surely were different. He felt it the height of irony; the day she rejected him, he proclaimed that no matter what, she can never stop him from loving her. But right after just five months, he screamed the exact opposite of what he had told her that day. He remembered his words to her clearly now; he had rebuked her that day, asking if she had any idea of what he must be thinking of her actions at Outwood. And she stood there, head bowed, unable to answer as well as unable to leave him unanswered. He had immediately dismissed himself that time, when his heart showed a little pity. His envy and gruesome nature held his heart, made him behave like a wounded prey, running away from her. When it was the other way around, all this while.

And hadn’t she pleaded with Mr. Bell to not convey the truth to him even now? Why? Because she took his abominable words to heart and believed it. She thought it better to keep her love untold and let him get ahead with life, more so, on the pretext that he was getting attached with another. How hurt must she have been to decide that he must not know the actual truth as it might help him forget her. Well done! Here he was burning inside day and night with seething love on one side and blistering envy on the other. And all this while, all these months she was battling almost the same emotions within her, with double the intensity than him, because she had just lost her only friend, her mother, bidding adieu to her only sibling, in hopes to meet in future if possible, tried to keep everything together for her father’s sake. And worse, this loathsome town of Milton spread terrible gossip about her, oh, not to forget his very own dear sister Fanny and the Latimers taking keen pleasure in hearing Miss Hale’s name being tarnished to dust.

He didn’t contribute to the rumours, of course he will never go to such abominable extents for he loved her truly, but did he do anything to quell the talk? Surely he could have done something, he had the power to. He could have tried gaining Miss Hale’s trust, giving her word that he would always be a confidante if not her lover and husband, that he wished to guard her name from these filthy mouths. He lamented inwardly to hear her being talked so in such a manner, but never tried to put a fullstop to it.

But no. His pride honed its horns, bitterness clenched his nerves, while his mouth spewed lies like venom. Even during her mother’s funeral, he only offered his condolences to Mr. Hale, and not once did he speak to her. How could such a gentle creature as she, already battling several deaths of her loved ones, face a miserable man like him? How could he have doubted her? Wasn’t love supposed to be based on trust? Yes, she had rejected him vehemently, she had every right to do so. But how could he have let his eyes believe the worst? He was a respected magistrate, whom people believed as the beholder of justice and wit. Why didn’t he let his conscience and wit tell him at least once to not believe and confirm who the man she was with?

Here, he was reminded about their discussion of truth. So, she had been indirectly pointing it out to him, that there might be more than what meets the eye. And he quipped back declaring her unfit to the truth.

As much as it made him feel privileged and joyful to know that she loved him, it also pricked his conscience for behaving so shamefully. Till date, he thought that Margaret gave him a new purpose of living. But now he realised that she rather showed him how dignified and pure she was, and how depraved he was.

He stopped in his tracks to realise where he had ended up exactly. The hillside. The place she often came for walks. The only place which offered her some peace of mind, away from the dirt and smoke of the town. He stood gazing quietly, his mind blank as a slate.

After a few minutes or so, he turned and walked towards the other side of the hill. This area was almost related only to him; the place where his father’s tomb was laid. His manner of death hardly gained him a decent funeral, and once John had the means to get things right, he took the effort of erecting the headstone. He visited his father’s tomb only twice every year: on the day of his father’s death anniversary, and when it was his own birthday to seek his blessings. His mother, not even once in fifteen years had come here. The church was quite near, yet she never considered visiting her husband’s place of rest. She knew although, that John visited it every year twice, and pretended to not care. But only he knew how much it meant to her, though she never expressed it.

Standing beside it, his thoughts were again in turmoil. He stood as if he wished to be shown what he must do next. So many thoughts raged one after the other that he felt he would collapse right there by the heaviness of it all. His eyes brimmed when he was reminded of her sobbing meekly, because he thought her as wronged and unjust in her actions. The fact that he hurt her and made her cry trampled within him, and only raised his self-hatred and denial further. The silence granted him the only peace he wished for at the moment. He forced his mind to calm, and think in order.

Right then, his mind flashed a sudden thought he almost forgot to think over. That his mother had known the truth of Margaret’s brother’s existence well before a few days.

A few days.

Anger seethed in him fresh, making him tremble. How could his mother, the one he trusted so well keep him away from the truth? Shouldn’t she have confessed and showed him the paper right then? It would have saved him as well as Margaret a world of misery.

He spoke softly for only him to hear, his brusque voice like a whisper, breaking as they forced to come out: “How selfish I had been to have doubted such a woman! I loved her till date for her beauty, grace, her very own sense of right and wrong, her boldness and gentle nature, and continued loving despite thinking ill of her. But today, I am shown how thoughtful and selfless she has been for me and others, nay, such a level-headed, practical woman I had and shall never see, while I have been the exact opposite, none of my sixteen years of experience and work to command how to love such a person. Pity, a pity indeed!”

Chapter Text

John’s POV:

I felt the shrill cold and the darkness slowly creeping all around me. I noticed that I was still at the hill, beside my late father’s resting place.

My head throbbed achingly. Never before had I felt so many emotions at the same time. Guilt and anger came rushing to my mind, all targeted at myself. My self-denial and insecurities only plunged deeper, rightfully so. This, however, could also not deny the extent of happiness I felt. God, I felt I was going deranged!

I started walking back home. I didn’t want to go back to the mill house, lest I let mother face the full ire of my wrath. Apart from the mill house, my office was my second sanctuary. I decided to visit my office instead and drown my head as usual in the receipts and invoices, even though I knew that my mind would drift towards thinking about someone…

I reached the mill gate and saw the hands walking out after a long day of work. They gazed at me quizzically. I always came up as an intimidating fellow, now more than ever.

I saw mother gazing out the window from the home, but I didn’t let that bother me. Not one bit. She was always my pillar of strength. I always discussed the mill ideas and happenings with her. I trusted her judgement, but I realised that she didn’t trust me enough to reveal the secret to me. That would have saved a world of grief, especially for dear Margaret.

I entered the office and noticed that everything was in order. My desk was organised properly, shelves arranged clearly. By the arrangement of it, I understood that mother must have done so. She must have been called by the hands in my absence to look at certain matters.

I sat in my chair, huddled up in the solitude of the lonely office. My mind was not in a position to focus on receipts and figures anymore. While I kept staring at it, I was approached by the servant. He said that mother asked me to come home. Unfortunately, the poor servant had to face my ire and he rushed back home as swiftly as he had come to fetch me.

After what seemed to be several hours, the clock struck twelve. It was eerily silent all around. I sighed deeply and headed home, a few letters in hand.

I entered and saw that the residents had retired. I climbed up the stairs to my room, when I heard the faint yet firm voice of prayers slipping out of my mother’s mouth.

Our father who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name…

I stood gazing the entire place I had been calling home. Home indeed! It was nothing but a prison, a garishly decorated asylum if I could be more precise.

I was freshly angered again before it faded into the darkness that surrounded. I never felt such self-pity before, as well as such loathing at my actions. It was not just about dear Margaret. It was about my entire life, which shuffled down like a disturbed pack of cards ever since father chose to quit the mortal world.

Just as I was about to retreat to my bedchamber, mother had opened the door and saw me.

“John. You are late.”

Silence. I didn’t even look at her face.

“The hands told me you had gone on an errand by afternoon and you didn’t return for so much time! And you sent away the servant too. Is something wrong with the mill? What’s the matter?”

“Yes, something is wrong, so devastatingly wrong. And no, it ain’t about the mill”.

“What is it then? Tell me”.

The unwavering tensed look of her son was not lost on her. After a brief silence, I spoke with a tinge of disappointment.

“Why did you hide the truth from me, mother?”

She looked confused, took a moment to finally realise where the conversation was heading towards.

“So she told you the truth? Everything? Isn’t it?”

“Yes, she did say. But not to me. I had gone to get back a file I had left at Crampton, and heard her confessing everything to her godfather, right from who that gentleman she was with in Outwood to some evidence you had come to know of from one of the maids”.

“That’s a good thing, then. I was about to tell you everything when you come home. You finally have become aware of what has been troubling you for the past few months. You have got the answer to your question”.

“My question still remains unanswered. Why, pray tell me, did you hide such a thing from me, knowing very well how tormented I was?”

Mother knew that I was angered beyond measure. She asked me to come inside her room while she went to fetch the torn paper she had been safely keeping mentioning the truth of Miss Hale’s brother and handed it over to me.

“Because I still wanted to get it confirmed from Miss Hale herself, even though the evidence is clear of her innocence.”

Her words fell on deaf ears as I hungrily took in the contents of the paper, assuring no single word was skipped. It seemed like an old torn newspaper bit, and when I read it, my mind suddenly reminded me of the mutiny. I was aware of the Belfast mutiny long back as it was the talk of the court circles, many years before when I was slowly becoming a prominent member of the court, though not a magistrate. Now when I thought about it, I was astounded to know that such an incident had a great deal to do with the Hales.

“When did you get this? How?”, I asked, exasperated.

Mother finally told me of how she got hold of it from Jane. I was terribly furious to hear her explanations.

“Mother, you got this almost a week before. All these days I was arrogant and ridden with ignorance. Have you any idea how many times unfortunately I had hurt Miss Hale in these few days alone? And also myself! She was bearing my rebuke just because she respected my opinion, while forging what this town spoke of her.”

“I didn’t want you to get hurt again, John! To be honest, my instincts told me to wait. She might be all holy and saint, but you were rejected once by her, her honour was trampled and distorted by this town, and I didn’t want you to interfere in it, even if Miss Hale is innocent. I wanted to get the truth from her directly, and then let you know everything.”

“What gave you the idea of interfering in this matter in the first place? I doubt you would have told me everything had I not become aware of it today! You wouldn’t have shown me this paper at all, and all my life I would have thought ill of her. I don’t understand why you have to treat me like a fragile child, mother. I am eight and twenty, running a mill of our own, and a magistrate. Haven’t you thought once of leaving my personal affairs to myself and let me be the judge of it? Wait, tell once and for all, are you and Fanny still entertaining hopes of getting me wed to that friend of hers?”

“No! I am your mother and wrong I might be, but I wanted to protect you from decline and gossip. I wanted to see if her opinion of you has changed for the better or not. If not, then I would have definitely told you at a later time, though however hurtful it might be for you.”

I knew that she was equally hurt when she had got to know that I was rejected by Miss Hale as it hurt her pride as well. Yet, I was not content with his mother’s words, despite her good intentions.

“And what did you derive from Miss Hale’s visit today? Has she risen in your eyes?”, I asked sarcastically.

“As unexpected as it is, based on what we talked about today, it seems that her opinions of you have changed. She respects your profession, hardwork and …”

“Margaret loves me, mother!” I said as loud as I could. How happy and proud I felt!

The words hung low in the air between mother and me. We were staring at each other, one making sense of the words she heard, while the other inertly happy to have said it louder.

“Margaret? I see.”

“Are you surprised or sad, mother? But this is the truth you didn’t know yet. She was in love with me all this time, just like me! She did reject me at first but then she started to understand and know me better, while I resented her. To hear her confess so many things to Mr. Bell, to see her crying because I didn’t trust her and thought her actions improper… you don’t know how much I despise myself. I had told her once that she hates me because she never understood me, but turns out it was me the whole time… me who had been so selfish in my intentions and judgments…”

“I did mistake her rejection of you as insolence and pride. But now when I think of it, I remember that on the day of the riot, when she was trying to come out of her unconscious state while on the settee, she must have heard Fanny and the maids talking…”

“I am sure Fanny and the maids would have never talked one word of sense at that moment. Am I right?”

“Yes.”

“Christ! Tell me what they spoke!”

“Well… Jane said how Margaret clung to your body as if she was claiming you… and then Fanny and the maid were talking of how Margaret was successful in her ploys to entrap you and become your wife… Why else would a woman embrace a man in front of the entire town to see! Just then, Margaret arose and she didn’t wait even an instant. She left despite me telling her to wait… I agreed with Fanny and the maid then, I was sure that her actions were borne out of a regard for you, and that she wanted to become a wealthy and respectable woman in society by becoming your partner… John, I apologise for I hardly knew the lass would be so strong in her morales and yet so innocent…”

“Mother, I had asked specifically of you to take care of her and not let her go home! Did you even think what would have happened if the rock had hit me? She saved me, mother, while putting her honour in jeopardy! To think that she was made so unwelcome in our home! ”

The words struggled to come out as I found my throat constricting and eyes welling up.

“John, calm down and…”

“Calm down? Is that what you want me to do mother? You shall never know how sickening it was to be in such turmoil. Had you not brainwashed me that day I would have proposed to her in a more gentleman-like manner! It was you who strongly said that she showed her regard for me for the people to see. Why had I even listened to you, I wonder! I should have simply gone and conveyed my gratitude to her, and then confessed my feelings in a more subtle manner! I should be in unbelievable happiness right now, but no! I am not able to forego my foolishness. And more so, I have let her down! I heard her speak with such practicality and it seems that I am nothing in front of her, which is the truth. I am totally unsuitable for her…”

“Do not speak so of yourself! You are so esteemed in this town and I wonder if there can be anyone else as you...”

“This isn’t the time to show how proud you are to have me as your son, mother! That’s all. I think that she would be angered at the sight of me. She might not agree to have me as her husband anymore. She will reject me again, rightfully so.

“Why are you so hopeless? She did say that she loved you, didn’t she?”

“She did, but still…”

“No buts and ifs then. You might think yourself low but if you don’t mend the damage you have caused then you don’t betray yourself but you will also end up betraying her. Don’t you think so?”

These words stirred something within me. True, Margaret loves me. This is not the time to belittle myself as not fit for her. If she loves me despite my foolish and horrid behaviour, she would have definitely seen some good and worth in me.

After all, she was Margaret, meek and mild, kinder still.

“I agree. I will visit Margaret tomorrow, precisely after the church service and ask for her hand, for forgiveness.”

I rushed to my room and clicked the door shut.

After changing into my night clothes, I paced in my room like a frantic cat. My hands raked my hair, making my dark raven-like mane unruly. Slowly, several things started to come into its place. First and foremost, I was reminded of the presence of a man inside the Hales’ home when I had gone to visit them with a basket of fruit. I had heard laughter from the room upstairs and had seen a bag on the table beside the front door. Also, Mary Higgins had walked past me into the house. Why did I not connect this with the Outwood incident and Mrs. Hale’s death? Surely, Mr. Hale would not have allowed his daughter to accompany a man, even if it could have been her fiance. Moreover, Mary Higgins had just before a few days informed me of the conversation the Latimers had with Margaret. She was a close friend of the Hales and she must have known the truth already too. I had walked past rudely, not once turning back, despite Margaret trying to explain to me. .

So now it’s clear why she refused me in the first place. She had asked me not to care for her reputation. I was foolish to misjudge her. Clearly, she didn’t want me to propose marriage to her only because her honour and image were at stake. She didn’t want me to think that her actions during the riot were to trap me but were simply to save me from danger.

But why would I think of her in such a way? Haven't I fallen in love with her at first sight? With her fearless spirit, intellect, and kindness. Though it took me some time to comprehend my feelings myself? It was my mistake that I didn’t show my feelings openly to her. My proposal would have undoubtedly been strange and extempore to her.

I once again thought of how demurely Margaret confessed that she loved me. I wanted her to utter those heavenly words to me, not to someone else. And definitely not in a state of hurt and tears. I knew well that she was not the woman who would try to trap men, and neither was she the one who purposely attached themselves to men and broke their hearts.

Tomorrow, I decided to put an end to all the agony we both faced. My eyes went over my bed, a grand four-poster bed designed for my peaceful repose, but no, never had I ever in the past eight years and more had a good night of sleep. I was ridden with isolation and constant work all these years.

After I saw Margaret, I felt so strange mentally and physically, as if my dormant desires started to brim towards the surface. I told myself that it would be temporary and it was just the way men felt when they saw a bonny face. But no, I was wrong. I had never been made to feel so by any woman before. Neither did I have any experience with women. I was suddenly grateful that at least I was a gentleman in this regard, for I was not the one to “dabble” with money or women. I respect people who respect me, and that’s the end of it.

Why had I not gotten myself married to any woman before? Hadn’t I the means of it? Or the wealth and position? Why hadn’t I let my physical needs and urges take me to establishments or mistresses? The very sound of it repulsed me, though I never had any previous experience before. It was all because I didn’t want to lose myself to anyone but only to the one whom I could love and who could love me in return.

I was thankful to Mr. Bell for suggesting Milton to the Hales and myself to Mr. Hale. I had thought that my mind craved education but instead it was longing for companionship and love. Both came in the form of Margaret.

Now I realise that my life was not much different than that of the machines which were in my mill.

I only hoped that Margaret would still love me. It would have taken me a minute to rush to her when she was talking to her godfather, plead for her forgiveness and confess that I loved her as always. But why didn’t I? Because doing so would have made me selfish. I cannot let my second proposal go down the drain like the first.

What if she changed her mind? Haven’t I hurt her enough? God, she thinks that I am getting myself attached to Miss Latimer. The hell I would! Ha! She might think to trap me by befriending Fanny, but I know her eyes look no further than the position and wealth I behold.

Am I still worthy of Margaret? Wouldn’t men like Henry Lennox and the likes be better suited to her? No, I shouldn’t think so. Time is slowly slipping from my hand. I should no longer waste it or I would be sorrowful and heartbroken for life. Whatever error I made by hurting Margaret, I will make it up with my steadfast love and loyalty to her. I shall protect and care for her for the rest of my life.

I finally sought my bed to sleep. I let my hands roam the mattress. Hopefully, in the near future, I shall not be lonely once and for all. And then I slept with a renewed hope.

Chapter Text

Margaret's POV:

I helped Dixon finish packing the bags for the impending journey to Oxford. At first, I was doubtful and hesitant of father undertaking a journey since his health and mind were still fragile. But Mr. Bell assured me that the trip will do him good and bring a fresh change. I agreed immediately. Moreover, I didn’t want father to be stuck inside his study, nose-deep in books all the time. I also know that he worries about my future, so this journey might help lift his spirits.

Now that I lay in my bed, all alone, finally having completed the day's chores, my thoughts drifted towards him. Him. It still feels so distant yet intimate when my mind conjures up images of love and matrimony with him. Mr. Thornton. John. The former seems to dissipate an intimidating figure of his while calling him by his first name, although not loud aloud, in the solitude of my bedchamber, feels right. Just so.

I wonder what he must be doing; perhaps he must be working in the mill, ridden in his office, or maybe he would be off to bed like me. It feels strange because the mind and heart can be such tranquil things yet so dangerous. They fancy situations in such a way that they will never be even an inch’s distance to reality, something next to impossible.

Should I tell him the truth? That I have a brother named Frederick and that I was under pressure to lie to the inspector to save him? Maybe yes. Maybe no. No, because what if he doesn’t believe me? If he fails to believe what I say that would crush me more than what I am feeling now. He very well confessed that his feelings for me have changed. Speaking the truth now will push him into agony and guilt. And now that it seems his attachment to Miss Latimer has grown ever since my actions lowered myself in his perception, there is perhaps no point. He will come to know of it all one day, but that day hasn’t come yet, I suppose. He shall never know that I had and will always have feelings for him. That’s the irony of it.

Annoyance and jealousy filled my mind and this further pushed me to feel ill of myself. These past few months, I have been led to feel so many emotions one after the other to such a great extent. I wasn’t one to feel envious of others; no this isn’t me! As much as I tried to not think him faulty, I wondered why he never let himself question the reason for my actions. The entire town has spoken ill of me, but his words hurt me more. Well, I know that it’s obvious to make out such a conclusion when a woman is seen with a man, but still.

He doesn’t trust me. Were his professions of love false then? A passing cloud? Was his love for me so fluctuating? I know I hurt his ego by humiliating him when he proposed because I thought he was forced to offer marriage duty-bound and not out of love. Maybe I deserve this for hurting such a generous man. But my pride refuses to bow to such accusation and distortion of my character. Anyway, I know that Miss Latimer might never love him the way I do, but that doesn’t mean she’s not the right match for him. She has beauty and wealth, and what’s more, they are family friends. And what about me? I am a headstrong, foolish woman who cares not for others’ feelings and speaks what my mind thinks! I might be from the south but my station is not wealthy and grand. And my actions in Outwood have definitely much to recommend my impropriety. His mother, though she knows the truth now, will not let him know for still having a connection with me would be disrespectful to them in the eyes of the town. Several marriages occurred out of wealth and connections, and fewer for love. I know that Mr. Thornton- John was not one to care for wealth but still, he must have finally started to see the faults in such a feigned union with me.

And yet, every time he comes home, I find myself weak. I am reminded of my hasty words of insult that I hurled at him. I am reminded of the heaviness of my love for him. I cannot ask him to not come for his lessons since that would hurt father to a great extent. I cannot ask him of such a thing because then I will not be able to see him too. And I couldn’t tolerate that.

I wonder if I can stay in Milton anymore knowing that his engagement to Miss Latimer would become official sooner or longer. I cannot bear to hear and witness such an event, even though I know he was right to change his affections. I will always pray to God for his and his family’s well-being.

A sudden idea came to me. Tomorrow I shall tell father and Mr. Bell of my wish. I only hope that they will not deny it. Poor Dixon however would throw a fit when she comes to know.

Chapter Text

It was Sunday. Uncommon to Milton’s otherwise dull and smoky skies, the clouds today held a bit of optimism. It was fresh and sunny. The Thornton household woke up early as usual, not to attend to matters of the mill and the house, but to attend the church service.

Mrs. Thornton was undoubtedly religious; she was firm in attending the church and never let Fanny skip them. However, she was still sometimes lenient with her son, who only rested on Sundays after week long hard work and toil in his mill. But today was different. Like straight out of the blue, she noticed her son getting ready to attend the mass. She knew that he was just like his late father; who was not one to have a keen and strong interest in religion. To Mr. Thornton, his work in the world was his religion, his sole purpose.

As for the lovesick man, he was as optimistic as the Milton skies today. He hoped fervently to see Miss Hale in church. His thoughts riveted to her graceful figure entering from the entrance towards the altar… perhaps to join him in the holy event of matrimony… in front of the Lord as witness…

Mrs. Thornton cleared her thought and it was enough signal for Mr. Thornton to retract the stupid grin on his face and come out of his reverie.

“The coach is here, John. We can go if you are ready and conscious.”

Mr. Thornton ignored the barb and let his mother inside the coach. Within the next half an hour, they were already occupying their usual seats in the front pew. Mr. Thornton noticed how alluring the church looked at the moment, or if it had always been this way. The sunlight filtered in through the minute glass windows, highlighting the delicate artwork on them beautifully. He couldn’t help but romanticise things, no matter how trivial they seemed, ever since he was blessed with Miss Hale’s acquaintance. He suddenly hoped that the church would look as marvellous as it did now on his wedding day. That is, if Margaret accepts his love and hand in matrimony. 

Nevertheless, despite Mrs. Thornton tapped her son’s lap as a hint to stop turning his head constantly towards the door, his eyes could not stop wandering. He was being noticed by several other families and masters, especially the other young ladies, and most importantly, who else other than the wily Miss Latimer. He managed to cast one of his dreadfully miserable scowls, one in which his lips almost literally disappeared and his eyes turned as icy as they could. The young lass couldn’t help but take back her coquettish looks and exchange it with a frightened and confused one.

Just then, the object of his affections entered the church demurely, her hand tucked safely on her father’s arm. Mr. Hale led his daughter to their seats. Thankfully, the seats they occupied were right opposite and a little further to his, which allowed Mr. Thornton to glance at her without raising much suspicion. The tutor saw his pupil and both men shared a smile. Miss Hale, on the other hand, seemed to not notice, most probably on purpose. 

The service began ceremoniously and ended the same way an hour later. During this time, his excitement was raged as he noticed Miss Hale stealing a glance of him shyly, but immediately turned her head away the minute he noticed. 

After sharing a courteous smile to Miss Hale, Mrs. Thornton went away to talk to the Hampers and the Slicksons. Mr. Thornton found it a welcome distraction and immediately went to greet Miss Hale and Mr. Hale.

“Mr. Hale, Miss Hale. Good morning.”

Miss Hale was surprised for a moment but composed herself and gave him a smile. The next minute, she told her father that she would like to visit her mother’s grave in the cemetery and return home later. She went away as soft as a breeze. Mr. Thornton felt a tinge of hurt to see her go without exchanging a word. 

“Good morning, John. It’s nice to see you although I suppose we met just two days ago? Well, anyway, you look quite blissful and content today”, Mr. Hale said.

“If you feel so, then it must be true of course. I do feel in better spirits today.”

“It just be because of the mill, I presume?”

“Not really, but yes, the mill is slowly but steadily coming back on its feet.”

“That’s a good thing indeed. I was about to send you a note as I didn’t expect I would come to church today.”

“Why? Are you ill? Or is Miss Hale not feeling well?” 

“Oh no, I am travelling to Oxford today with Bell. He suggested a trip would be better for my spirits and there is a reunion to take place of our fellow mates. I will be there for a week. I would surely miss our lessons and you. That’s why I came to church so that I can bid adieu in person.”

Mr. Thornton didn’t know if this was welcome news or not. He was grateful that his friend and tutor showed him great affection and respect, even though he doubted if he deserved it. But it also meant that he could visit Miss Hale freely soon and confess his feelings for her. Just then, a sudden idea came to him. He decided to politely offer his option, hoping it would work. He would deal with his mother later. 

“I see. I would miss our lessons too, Mr. Hale. I shall wait till you come back safely. But would Miss Hale stay alone at Crampton with Dixon? My mother and I would be really happy if Miss Hale stays at the mill house under our care till you return. She would not feel lonely. Even Dixon would be more than welcome.”

There, he said it! He knew that his tutor, bless his soft nature, was too sensitive to notice anything awry in his offer. He masked his request as of a hospitable nature but deep inside he knew that to have Miss Hale closer, at his home, would be a boon. 

Mr. Hale thought for a moment. 

“That does sound good, John. I had thought the same, I didn’t want her to feel lonely too. But just today morning, she asked if she could accompany us to Oxford. We didn’t get time to discuss it further as we reached the church. I shall ask her again if she is fine with the arrangement or if she wishes to travel to Oxford. By the way, I hope Mrs. Thornton would be fine with this idea?”

“Yes of course. We shall be glad to have her.”

“Well then, I will ask herself to send a note to Mrs. Thornton if she intends to come. Goodbye, John. We shall meet soon.”

“Have a safe journey, Mr. Hale.” 

They parted their way. 

He stood in the exit of the church waiting for his mother. He was deep in thought, wondering if Miss Hale would agree to his request or not. Obviously, she wouldn’t agree. He had hurt her immensely and led her into thinking terrible things, although unknowingly. She will not wish to be under the same roof as him. She would prefer to go to Oxford and rather enjoy the company of the literate gentlemen there. 

His mother came and asked him what happened. He explained to her of his offer and hoped she would understand. Mrs. Thornton did raise a fit, talking of how improper it would be to have an unwed son and woman in the same house, but later assuaged to her son’s request. She had promised him that for once, she would let things go his way. But both of them wondered if Miss Hale would agree to their plan.

They started walking down the hill, following the route of the cemetery. 

They saw Mrs. Hale’s grave. Mr. Thornton and his mother paid their respects. Both mother and son noticed a dainty yellow rose over it. The colour yellow reminded him of Miss Hale’s beauty and stubborn nature, whilst reminding him of his meaningless jealousy. He was once again reminded of Miss Hale’s steadfast devotion towards her mother and family, and how little he had done to stand with her at such a grievous time. He had chosen to be ridden with jealousy and anger, hurling venomous words at her. He promised himself and within his mind to Miss Hale that he would tend to the grave and visit it often.

Just then, Mrs. Thornton asked her son to take her to her husband’s grave as well.

Mr. Thornton stood nonplussed for a minute. 

“Father’s grave?”

“Yes.”

“But… you never went there… I mean why now, mother…?”

“I wish to go now. Will you take me there?”

“Of course. We shall go”.

Both of them walked in silence, one leading the other. It was evident to them that their trepidation and past painful memories rose like smoke from the chimney. But they stopped not. 

Until they reached the other side of the grave. The lonely grave.

While at first nothing seemed strange, it was then that something caught their eyes. Mr. Thornton couldn’t help but pick it up while his eyes watered a little.

A flower was placed on his father’s tomb.

It was a rose.

It was a dainty yellow rose.

***

When Mr. Hale told Margaret about Mr. Thornton’s offer, she was oddly perplexed and restless.

Why would he offer such an option? Was she to hope that his mother told him the truth? That might not be possible at all, she thought. Mrs. Thornton was not naturally a vicious woman but for her son’s welfare, she would throw any obstacle to the wind.

Thus, Mr. Hale was in confusion, Dixon throwing a fit to know that more arrangements would have to be made, and Margaret trying to convince them both. Mr. Bell stood watching the scene with a chuckle.

“Dixon and Margaret are as different as chalk and cheese! Sometimes they remind me of Fred!” Mr. Hale commented.

“Haha, nostalgic indeed. But pray tell me, what’s the tattle all about?”, asked Mr. Bell.

“Ah, so you see, yesterday I had asked Margaret if she wished to come to Oxford and she denied. On the other hand, I met John today in church and he suggested Margaret stay in his home along with Dixon, so that she’s not alone here till we come back. But now, she seems to have changed her mind. She is asking if she could accompany us.”

All that Mr. Bell could focus on was that Thornton offered to have Margaret at his home. That was a brilliant idea! Finally the man has come to his senses. Now that he knew of all that was bugging him for the past few months, it was time to set things straight. Although he was still annoyed that he chose to run away like a frightened kitten, Mr. Bell felt that the only way both stubborn lovers together is by letting their heart out.

He knew that Margaret can be stubborn but he had to play his card. Even if that meant he had to lie.

“Well, my dear, the arrangements have been made for only two. I really wish you could come with us. Oxford is a beautiful place. I and your father would have loved to show you the university and other areas of interest. But it would be mostly just old men and tutors around. Moreover, you might feel lonely staying in the inn the entire time, dear. Thornton would be a sore company too but nevertheless, you might have some passionate discussions with him, why, about the mill and the masters of course.”

Margaret was not ready to give in easily, now that she understood that her godfather was teasing on purpose.

“But Mr. Bell, I feel that Mr. Thornton is all politeness. Surely, I don’t wish to cause inconvenience to him…”

“Nonsense, my dear! He would rather be brought to senses with your views and company. Moreover, Dixon’s spirits cannot handle a journey at the moment. Right, Dixon?”

“Yes, Mr. Bell! I have no wish to torture my knees only to stay huddled up inside the inn!”

“There, you see. I and Hale promise to take you next time. Meanwhile, bless the Thorntons with your company!”, he said with his usual wink.

Margaret sighed and gave in to the plan. She wanted to stay away from Mr. Thornton so that she could not get hurt as well as hurt him further. But fate had other ideas.

An hour later, she stood in the verandah and bid adieu to her father and godfather. The carriage pulled away swiftly towards the station. She was just about to enter her house and close the door, when suddenly she turned back and let her eyes wander, as if searching for someone. She felt that she was being watched.

And truth be told, she was right.

In a distance, she could see a familiar tall figure of the man who filled up her dreams and reverie, in a desperately panting state. Gawking at her with a look of glee.

She was staring at Mr. Thornton who was now walking, sorry, running towards her like a child. Margaret lost all her composure and found no words popping in her mind when his sapphire blue eyes held her in such beguiling a manner.

“Mr. Thornton… well, father and Mr. Bell just went…”

“So, you didn’t go?”

“Pardon?”

“I see that you have chosen to stay.”

After a sigh, she looked up at him confidently and said- “Yes.”

Chapter Text

When John had returned home after the church service, his head reeled with love and hope.

He was most surprised to know that Miss Hale had left a flower on his father’s grave. He wondered how she knew the place and remembered that on several occasions, he had talked about it to Mr. Hale. He must have told the daughter. She would have thought that he visited the place rarely, which was true, and that her token of respect would go unnoticed.

Now, all that he hoped was that she would agree to be his guest in the mill house. It would be a wonderful opportunity to show her his guilt as well as his love. He wanted her to stay comfortable and not alone. 

He tried to leave the matter for a while and focus on his mill work. He thought it prudent to finish certain significant tasks so that he would be able to spend time with her at least today. He also made sure that the guest room was prepared in advance, just in case she agrees to accept his invitation.

His mother had insisted that she would rather assign Fanny’s room to Miss Hale, that is if she intended to stay with them in the mill house. But he opposed the idea since Fanny’s room was too garish. It was also in the far end of the house, almost detached from the other areas since his sister preferred to be away from the sounds of the mill. 

The guest room on the contrary was modest. He assured the arrangements of the room himself by supervising the maids. It didn’t take much preparation and changes since he knew Miss Hale was not one for garish displays. He wanted to keep it simple yet significant for her tastes. He decided to ask her if she liked the room later.

A few hours passed and his anxiety rose. Did she go to Oxford then? Why is there no notice yet? Mr. Hale and Mr. Bell would have gone by this time already. 

Sensing that he could not wait any longer, he thought it best to find it out himself. He set out for Crampton as fast as his legs could take him. If she was to go, at least he could bid her adieu.

***

“So, you didn’t go?”

“Pardon?”

“I see that you have chosen to stay.”

“Yes.”

The ecstasy he felt was extreme. He thought that she would shun the sight of him and would prefer to stay away from him and from all the hurt this town flung at her, even if it was for a week.

Spellbound, they were now inside her home. They had long stood without words because clearly, neither knew what to say. They were noticed by Dixon who huffed at them for standing like monoliths right outside the door. She asked them to come inside and talk about whatever they had to.  

They were now in the drawing-room. He noticed her nervousness and it annoyed him immensely. Not at her obviously, but at himself. Miss Hale was always a confident young woman but now when he saw her, hesitating and anxious, he wondered what she thought of him. He had made herself timid with his disapproval which she took to her heart. A few days back, he rather thought that Miss Hale would hardly bother about his opinions. He was wrong. He pacified himself by remembering that she was in love with him. 

John thought it best to take the initiative, lest she changed her mind again.

“Miss Hale, I know you are concerned for your father but I feel that the trip might do him good. Mr. Bell will take care of him and they would get to see their friends and acquaintances in Oxford. It would regenerate his spirits.”

“Yes, Mr. Thornton. I was doubtful but I thought he needed to move out instead of being trapped in his study.”

“All will be fine, Miss Hale. Do you consider being my guest in the mill house?”

 “Yes, Mr. Thornton. I would be glad to be your mother’s guest in the mill house.”

Her response was not lost on him. He didn’t know for a moment if she was teasing him or insisting on maintaining the distance in such formalities.

“As well as mine, Miss Hale. I hope you stay safe and in the company in my house rather than here, alone.”

“Papa and Mr. Bell thought the same.”

“I see. So why wait? I will be going to the mill so I can walk you home.”

“Now? Well, I do have some chores to finish, and…”

Dixon joined in the conversation.

“No Miss Margaret, I can see to that. Mary said she will be coming in some time. I will bring your belongings, whatever is necessary. You can go now if you wish.”

Margaret was perplexed. Dixon, who hardly approved of Mr. Thornton was now asking her to go with him first. 

 “Miss Hale?”

“Oh yes. I think I am fine with it.”

“Thank you. That’s settled then. I shall send a carriage for Dixon today evening at sharp six. You can join us then.”

“Thank you, Mr. Thornton”, Dixon said.

 ***

Both of them fetched their hats. They were ready to walk. While one was unsettled, the other was in bliss as this would be the first time they would be walking together. 

He offered her his arm. She didn’t dare look up at him but meekly accepted it after a moment's thought. She didn’t hold him tight or in a possessive manner (here, he was reminded of how Miss Latimer shamelessly clutched his arm during Fanny’s wedding like one clung to a street pole during a tornado). Her touch was light but it had enough power to make the hair in his hands stand and send a shiver. 

She had also donned a beautiful blue shawl around her. Her white gown fit her body perfectly. She walked like a cloud, fast yet gracefully. Many times, he had imagined this exact thing, only now it had become a reality. It was difficult to focus on his path when an angel itself was walking with him, her hand tucked under his arm. Soon enough, their steps were matched, their pace in coordination. He enjoyed every single minute of it and vowed to himself that they would go out on walks often once they are married…

They walked in silence but it wasn’t uncomfortable. He was too much lost in a heady sensation, to walk along with her, oh, how many days did he wish to simply escort her once to anywhere. But now, she was coming to stay in his home. 

As for Margaret, she felt everything strange. She couldn’t put two and two together. She was well aware that Mr. Thornton was a dominating person. But he always respected her views and cared for them. Today, she could almost see his commanding nature, one in which he wanted to take control of her as well as the entire situation. It was she who still loved him, not he. So, she couldn’t understand why he had to offer such a request, offer her his arm, even though it was gentlemanly.  

John noticed that Miss Hale was thinking furiously. He also was aware that several people were noticing them in the street. It didn’t bother him in the least, instead, he felt much elated and proud to be in her presence. He knew that he was grinning like a schoolboy. So, no wonder why people would be surprised.

They reached the mill house.

Mrs. Thornton had seen them from the window. Watching them together stirred something inside her, not unpleasant yet not pleasant as well. John rarely escorted women and even when he did, he maintained his gruff and firm profile. But now that he was next to Miss Hale, she could see the amount of untold happiness in his face. She pacified herself thinking that her part in his son’s life is almost over and it would be time to welcome another. 

“Mother, Miss Hale is here as I had mentioned. Dixon will be here by evening.” 

“Yes, John. Welcome, Miss Hale. Did you have lunch?”

“Thank you, Mrs. Thornton. Yes, I had.”

“Fine. Please feel free to ask me or the maids if you need anything. You can take some rest till evening if you wish, Miss Hale.” 

“I think I would indeed rest a little while, Mrs. Thornton.”

John found the company so far fine if not a bit too civil. But it was more than enough for the time being. That his mother agreed to the plan was a blessing itself. He wanted her to feel happy and comfortable in his home. It was time for him to pitch into the conversation.

“Miss Hale, please make yourself at home. And yes, please don’t hesitate to ask anything if you require.”

His sudden words and attention made Margaret blush profusely. He noticed it and found himself redden as well. Mrs. Thornton cleared her throat to bring both people back to the ground. 

“Jane, please show her the room. Miss Hale, we shall meet you for supper.”

Margaret bowed her head in thanks and went to her room.

After Miss Hale retreated to her room, John felt it best to converse with his mother. He knew that she can be brusque in her manners, especially to Miss Hale. He wanted to assure her happiness even if it required keeping his mother in control.

“Mother, I know all this might feel strange. But I hope you keep your promise. My happiness lies in it and if I fail to make up now, I shall be doomed to live in guilt. I hope you keep her good company.”

“Don’t worry. I know what you think but I shall not be inhospitable of course. But when are you planning to ask for her hand again?”

“I don’t know yet. It will not be easy because she thinks I am not in love with her anymore.”

“I hope she accepts you, John. I will pray for the happiest outcome.”

John knew that his mother was speaking in earnest this time. She had been a strong pillar of support to him all these years. 

“Thank you, Mother. Thank you so much for everything. I shall head to the mill office for some work, Mother. I shall see you for supper.”

Mrs. Thornton saw her son rushing out the house like a giddy child and couldn’t help but wonder. When was the last time he was this happy? Definitely not in fourteen years since he shouldered the family’s burden as the master of the house. Even before that, when his father was still alive, he was a reserved person as usual. Seeing him excited and happy now reminded her of what all he had missed and had to forego to keep a roof over their heads. In twenty-eight years, this was the first time he was so blissful, all thanks to Miss Hale. She was still not fully convinced of her bold nature. She was a passionate, clever young woman, and hurt it may to say but it was the truth: her son’s happiness now laid in Miss Hale’s hands. She only wished that the young lass would not refuse him again and made his happiness. 

***

Margaret was in the room assigned for her. Jane, the maid, treated her with a sense of firmness, but Margaret only hoped that she had overcome the grief of her fiance’s loss. 

The maid went away after her task was done. Once alone, Margaret saw the room properly for a while. It was exquisite, with a large bed and elegant furnishings. But something about it was distinct. She wasn’t able to place it. 

It took her a moment before she realized that it was almost resembling her own room. Of course, the rich furnishings were not a part of her room but the simplicity and the placement of the things cannot be ignored. She suddenly felt a bit homely and couldn’t help but smile.

Could it be that he took care of the arrangements himself or had the room been always this way? She wondered.

She sat on the bed, which was large enough than her own. Her feet were dangling and she felt her thoughts running back to him.

Mr. Thornton. 

John.

To spend a week under the same roof as him? She was surprised she didn’t faint already. Why was he behaving like he still cared for her? She brushed off his kind offer as gratitude to her papa’s friendship with him. But now when she thought about it, she was certain that he was considering her comfort all the time. Even when they walked, it was he who escorted her but it was she who led the way if she could be honest! The man was staring at her with such intensity that Margaret felt flushed all the time but tried hard to be negligent of it. She tried it hard not to blush too much as it would be a tell-tale sign of what she felt for him. Had she too walked looking at him instead of what’s in front, she was sure they would have tripped and fallen down together, another intriguing scandal being caused for the gossip churners of Milton to relish. 

And why would Mrs. Thornton accept such a thing in the first place? She cared much for conventions and propriety, just like any mother would. 

Margaret told herself that she must be grateful to the Thorntons no matter what for their kindness. 

It was still so puzzling that she decided to sleep it out and think later. Perhaps she would go on a walk to the hill by late afternoon. It will help her clear her thoughts and compose herself.

***

He glanced at his pocket watch. It was four in the afternoon. He realized that it was almost three hours since Margaret was in her home. Would she be resting yet? Mostly yes. He hoped that she liked her room and found it comfortable. 

He still had a few works to be done, but as usual, he wasn’t able to concentrate. What nagged him now was something else totally. How would he propose to her? He cannot wait any longer, but will it also be wise enough to confess his feelings in his home? His mother would most definitely be watching him and her closely. And it’s not that Miss Hale would be accepting immediately, no, for there would definitely be arguments among them since their misunderstandings still were yet to be resolved. 

Panic and uncertainty coursed through him but he brushed it off. He knew the truth of the Outwood incident and most importantly, he knew that she loved him. If only he could hear it again from her, he would be happy for the rest of his life!

While he was engaged in his reveries, he didn’t realise the time that had gone by and also Miss Hale coming out of his house.

***

“Mother, I have returned. I just sent a coach for Dixon. Did Margaret wake up?”

“Yes. We just had tea.”

“Oh, but where is she?”

“She is gone.”

“Gone? But where?”

“She said she wanted to go for her usual late afternoon walks. I insisted on one of the maids to go with her, but she opposed. Been half n’ hour. No one can stop her from hopping around the town like a rabbit, can we?” Mrs. Thornton said with her usual disapproving look.

John was worried. He knew that she went on her walk almost every day to Princeton or the hill. But he never agreed to her walking alone as it was extremely unsafe. He had tried talking to Mr. Hale about the consequences and the unsafe nature of the town, especially in the dark alleys of Princeton. But neither succeeded in stopping her from walking alone.

He raked through his hair, thinking about what to do. Should he wait till she comes back? He thought for a while and suddenly thought of a better idea. 

“Well, I shall go and fetch her.”

“What? You? Why should you go, John. Don’t get too ahead of yourself! Wait till she comes back or if you have any idea where she might have gone, send the maid.”

Her words fell on deaf ears as John rushed out of his home.

Chapter Text

Margaret walked briskly in the street. The people were about their chores and several acquaintances greeted and tipped their hats to her.

In no time, she reached the hill.

The hill was her favorite place as it was the only spot in Milton that was surrounded by greenery. Though it had paths marked for walks, people avoided the place due to the cemetery making it seem like a dark place. But for Margaret, it was the most serene place. It helped her to stay away from the hustle and bustle of the city and offered her solitude.

She felt the urge to sit on the soft grass and overlook the city.

Her thoughts were muddled once again; Mr. Thornton being constant in her mind.

At first, the soft rustle of the trees and breeze didn’t show anything but then she could sense someone else’s presence around her. She tried to decipher who it might be but found none. Since she was not scared in the least, she went back to her thoughts.

Just then, a hand touched her shoulder and she sprang back in fright.

“Lost in thoughts, Miss Hale?”

“Oh, Jo- Mr. Thornton!”

Margaret was so much in her mind that she almost blurted out his christian name. And by the look of his face, she realized that he noticed it well.

“Yes, it’s me. Mother told me that you had gone for a walk. I knew I could find you here, so I came.”

“Well, you need not have, Mr. Thornton. I would have come back in some time myself.”

She chastised him tersely but he didn’t flinch. Rather, he was once again mesmerized by the sight of her. She was still sitting on the ground; she didn’t get up at the sight of him but only looked up at him. The soft breeze let her hair flutter making her look nothing but divine.

He knew that if they were caught, it would be the height of impropriety, but could he care about it now? He sat on the ground as well but maintained his distance. Miss Hale was stunned but thankfully she didn’t move. They sat in companionable silence for some time- one assuming the other didn’t love her and the other wondering how to express his thoughts.

Now was the time to pour out his feelings, he surmised. But she jumped in with her question.

“Mr. Thornton, I hope I won’t be seen as impertinent if I ask you a question.”

Her sudden confidence startled him but he decided to let her take the initiative.

“Of course, Miss Hale. Please feel free to ask me whatever you wish to.” 

“May I know why you are doing all this?”

“All this? I am afraid I don’t understand.”

“You told my father that I could stay in your home as a guest. You willingly escort me to your house. You are being kind to me more than you think I deserve. Your kindness unnerves me at times, Sir. I tell myself that it’s just your respect to my father, for the knowledge and friendship he imparts to you. But when I think about it, my mind tells me that your actions are not out of just kindness but...”

She stopped. Just as usual, she let her mind speak and blurt out until it was too late. It was as if her mouth had a mind of its own, which led her to many troubles in the past. Especially with him.

“But what, Miss Hale?” John asked directly.

Margaret found that the situation was slowly going out of her depth. She found herself turning red and tears accumulated in her eyes. She closed her eyes to not let them fall as she cannot cry and embarrass herself in front of him.

John saw her intently and felt extremely bad. He couldn’t let her cry. He was about to wipe her face when she got up and started walking, moving away from him.

“Miss Hale! Please wait!”

She didn’t turn back but clutched her skirts meekly and started to walk faster, practically running.

John was flustered. He didn’t know what to do. Taking a deep breath, he called out loudly. This time and for the first time, by her christian name.

“Margaret!”

She stopped but still didn’t turn back. She thought for a while if it was a mistake or most probably one of her dreams. But why was she panting? Crying? She turned back and faced him confidently.

She was blushing profusely now and there was no way of turning back. She felt her spirit rushing down the hill and locking itself in her Crampton home. But in reality, she stood rooted on the spot.

“Margaret,” John said and inched closer to her. He was finally standing in front of her and gave her his handkerchief.

“I am sorry, Mr. Thornton. Please forget what I asked. It is of no import.”

“Will you let me speak? Promise me you won’t run away without hearing everything that I have to say.”

She sniffed and nodded like a child. 

“I am sorry. I hope you can forgive me.”

Margaret was confused.

“Why, Mr. Thornton? I wonder what wrong you did that you seek my forgiveness.”

“Because I misunderstood several things, Miss Hale.”

“Mr. Thornton, we are not ones to meddle with words. Please tell me plainly what and why so that I can understand.”

“Very well, Miss Hale. I know about your brother.”

She was in shock for a minute but decided to tell him the existence of her dear brother Frederick.

“I have a brother named Fred… Frederick Andrews Hale. He is six years older than me. We both led a happy life in Helstone, us and our parents… A few years ago, he joined the navy… The Belfast ship… the captain was a cruel man… he injured people in the ship and… there was a mutiny led by my brother…He had come to Milton during mother’s death…”

She started crying profusely. She was battling between controlling her stature in front of him. She fervently hoped he trusted her now. If he was still unsure of the truth, she would be devastated.

“Please trust me. This is the truth, the only truth, Mr. Thornton.”

John was heartbroken to hear her crying and worse- when she pleaded to trust her.

“Miss Hale, please don’t cry. I trust you completely. It was my mistake. I misinterpreted you and your brother as…”

“You thought that I was having a clandestine meeting with a lover.”

She finished his sentence. Now, her face was stiff and her usual boldness brimmed in her face. He felt timid in front of her confidence, but he cannot miss the only chance of speaking his heart out. He was ashamed of himself to hear it from her.

“I am extremely sorry, Miss Hale. I felt envious that you took such a great risk to accompany a man at that hour. I was furious over him that he let himself aboard the train and go away, all the while putting your honor in jeopardy. I knew that whatever you did must have been for your love and kindness for the person. My biggest error was to mistake it and let myself be blinded by the appearance of it. What’s more, I was shocked that you continued supporting the man by lying to the inspector about your whereabouts on that fateful day in Outwood. And to humiliate you as untruthful in your own home! I can never forgive myself for the harsh words. You see, I expected you to rebuke me as you always do, rightfully so. But all this while, you stood naively listening to the barbs I threw upon you. I am sorry for everything. I was most unjust.”

It was her turn to speak.

“Did you really not ask yourself even once, Mr. Thornton? That I might be in the right or at least in a precarious situation that led me to accompany a gentleman late at night and lie to the inspector? You must have thought me improper…”

“I was unkind to you, but no, I never thought of you as a fallen wom-… no, never in that manner! I did try to think of any other possibility, but how could I have ever arrived at the conclusion that it was your brother? Trust me, I lost all my sleep from that night onwards. All hope lost. Nowhere to go for a respite except my mill and your home. And to hear your name being spoken so badly by people. It further boiled my blood that I couldn’t do anything. Please forgive me, Miss Hale.”

He was speaking honestly and Margaret was able to understand things from his side. She thought that it was time to speak her mind.

“All is forgiven, Mr. Thornton. I understand you. I really wanted to tell you about it all. And it’s not that I have never hurt you. I am sorry for the words I so vehemently spoke when you had come to pro-… the day after the riot, I mean. At the heat of the moment, I didn’t know how to respond. I was in a fix, Mr. Thornton. But, I am glad you have the company of Miss Latimer now. She is a well-bred lady, well educated, and what’s more, she is from Milton. I wish you all the happiness in the world. You have paved your way in the world with your steadfast hard work and devotion. Many families have a roof above their heads because of your kindness, Mr. Thornton. I know you don’t see it that way, but I shall proclaim it for that’s the truth. I thank you earnestly for your friendship with my father too.”

“I don’t know how to respond. But you are terribly mistaken too.”

After a moment, he continued-

“You must have had the impression that I care for someone. But trust me, it’s the other way around, and it’s just for the name and position I behold. So, no. I am not in love with her.”

Margaret felt the air gasp out of her lungs. She stood wide-eyed.

“Did you think I would be so inconstant in my feelings for you? Even when I most unfortunately thought that you had another man in your life? If yes, then you are wrong. I may be a manufacturer, illiterate, and brusque, but I am not the one who would change the object of his affections after knowing that the one I love doesn’t care for me. I couldn’t. Even before you had ever come to Milton, I had decided that I will not marry any woman who sees me as nothing but a prize.

All changed after you had come. No one dared bat an eye in front of me, but you stood fiercely in front of me when I was beating Stephens to a pulp! I was annoyed because it was nothing less of a miracle. But from that day onwards, I felt something different and unique though I couldn’t put a name to it. And then I became aware that you were my tutor’s daughter. The rest is history as you well know!”

Margaret found herself smiling on hearing this. So he was not attached to anyone else. But at the same time, does that mean he still…

Seeing the confusion on her face, John reached the crux of the entire situation.

“I also wish to apologize for a blatant lie that I had said.”

 “Which lie?”, asked Margaret hopefully.

“That all my foolish passions for you were over.”

She stood nonplussed.

“You see, they were never over. Instead, they have increased tenfold.”

“Mr. Thornton…”

“I cannot hold it anymore. My heart aches. I shall tell the only truth. And it is this, Margaret. I love you always and more than ever.”

She inched closer and took his hands in her own. She held them tight while he placed a peck on her forehead.

“Now that you cannot run away from me, let me ask you- Will you marry me, Margaret?”

“Yes, Mr. Thornton, I will!”

He embraced her carefully at first lest she become uncomfortable. But when he felt her hands wrapping his waist, he knew that she wouldn’t flinch away from him this time. He lifted her chin and inched closer. Until their lips met tenderly. 

They parted with a smile. Margaret asked him how he got to know the truth. He told her that he heard it from herself. She was astounded to hear her godfather’s play in this situation but thanked providence for bringing them together. 

“Now, Margaret, call me John from now on or I shall go home leaving you alone!”

“I dare you, John!”

They laughed heartily and started walking back home, hand in hand.

Chapter Text

Never in the past fifteen years did Mr. Thornton feel so giddy and happy like a carefree lad. He had always been handsome but now, his visage carried the streak of some young and blossoming happiness that never before existed, not even when his family was intact.

That Margaret accepted him was still beyond his imagination. He had heard her confessing her love for him, but either way, that didn’t stop the guilt and regret from clouding his mind often. Margaret often had to chide and tease him to bring him back from his forlorn reveries. It was an incredibly easy task for her, as the master could hardly stay moody for a minute longer when she was within his reach.

When they had come home together arm in arm from the hillside, Mrs. Thornton realized that finally all was set to right. She did feel a pang of displacement and nervousness, as how the next events would follow. She was well aware that John would hardly wait for the wedding as neither her son nor his intended would be interested in a long engagement or a grand marriage affair. But she wished to have some hold on the marriage and thus, braced herself for her opinions to be accepted, hopefully.

Margaret stayed in the mill house for a week as her father and godfather were still in Oxford. Margaret suggested Mr. Thornton write a letter addressing her father about the events that occurred, but he gently denied, saying that her father needed his much required rest and time away. She understood his reason and either way, both of them knew well that Mr. Hale would be extremely happy to know that he would become his son-in-law, his darling daughter’s husband. 

To stay under the same roof and still pretend to be courteous was bothering Mr. Thornton too much. He knew that he had to wait till he could seek Mr. Hale’s permission before he could scream at the top of his lungs from the hillside to the folks of Milton that he and Margaret would become man and wife. Mrs. Thornton was careful as ever, because she knew what two people, especially two passionate and stubborn lovers could behave like. Despite her spying attention, the young couple often found time together in the library and walked to the hill sometimes. They would speak of sweet nothings, whisper lovely promises, dream of happiness, and spend time in silence, delicious silence, mind you! Stolen glances and kisses soon became the ritual of the day. Mr. Thornton was happy that Margaret was slowly coming out of her cocoon of shyness and was slowly getting used to his touch. They remained decent enough, although it often was tough for the man. But he told himself that his passionate and more amorous attentions will have to wait for some time longer, until they could be legally man and wife.

Mrs. Thornton and Margaret slowly started warming towards each other. They still spoke formally. The latter knew that the mother was trying her best to take the news and be jovial enough. She respected her intended’s mother since despite her stern nature, she was the one who raised an honorable man as John Thornton. 

Dixon got hold of the news somehow or the other and was aghast. She did have respect for Mr. Thornton, but still questioned his eligibility as Miss Hale’s spouse. She questioned Margaret and insisted on going back to Crampton. She was dead set on informing the Shaws in London of the brewing match. But Margaret convinced Dixon to do no such thing. After a long discussion, Dixon gave in to the idea and realized that her miss and the master were indeed in love. 

The maids in the house started to find something was different about the way the house felt, contrary to the eerie quiet except for Fanny’s prattle, now it felt much more homely and delightful. And thus, the first word reached Fanny by the devoted gossiper Jane, the maid, who immediately came home one morning demanding an explanation. She knew that Miss Hale would be staying at the mill house for a week, but when she saw her dear brother’s scowl-less face, she sniffed the reality, more quickly than expected. Her mother and brother warned her tersely not to spread word in the town since Mr. Hale would reach Milton only after three days and his permission was required formally. She bobbed her head like a pet canary, but no sooner did she leave the mill gate, that the news started spreading like wildfire. 

For a few observant people, it came as no news but a happy one. For several other families, it came as a shock. One such family was the Latimers. Mr. Latimer was vexed inevitably and thought of his lovely daughter’s feelings. But he was stunned when the young woman simply pouted at the news and left it at that. While the father wondered why the news brought her no pain, Ann Latimer, on the contrary, was wondering how to let her father know of a more possible suitor, a leading French art academy owner. The dream of settling in France was more than enough to distance any plans she had of getting herself attached to some sort of an angry but handsome mill master named… John Thornton? Her father soon got hold of the stick and despite his agreement at the eligible match, he deduced how fickle and vain a woman’s love could be. 

The fellow masters were envious too, especially Mr. Slickson who could do nothing but only dream of such a fine woman in his arms. He teased Mr. Thornton often during the club meetings on matters more intimate and of a personal nature. Mr. Thornton would set him right, one day or the other, for sure.

Finally, Mr. Hale and Mr. Bell returned to Milton. Both looked a great deal happy and the trip did them good. Mr. Thornton escorted Margaret back to Crampton, but it was Mr. Bell who noticed the two lovers and finally got a whiff of understanding. He was glad that they left Margaret in Milton under Thornton’s care as at last, they seemed to have reached an understanding. After Mr. Hale was settled and calm, his pupil broke the news to him. His happiness knew no bounds and he was ecstatic that John would become his family, and they a part of his family as well. He embraced his daughter and they shed a few happy tears. Mr. Hale thought it best then to confess the truth about his son- Frederick Hale. But Mr. Thornton assured him that Margaret told the truth already and it would be safe with him for life.

The wedding date was set after a month. Mrs. Thornton and Fanny insisted on a much longer date, but Mr. Thornton denied outright and so did Margaret. A letter was sent to her brother and the Shaws to inform of the impending marriage and their presence as a blessing. It came as a shock to the London family especially Edith and Henry Lennox, who dreamed that Margaret would be one of their own flock. Captain Lennox took it in the best manner and also went on to reminisce that he did in fact see a spark between Margaret and the intelligent northern mill master when they met in the Great Exhibition. 

“But it would have been so nice for us all,” pleaded Edith. “I should always feel comfortable about the children, if I had Margaret settled down near to me.”

“I will try, when I marry, to look out for a young lady who has a knowledge of the management of children. That is all I can do.” Henry responded.

A letter from Frederick lifted everyone’s spirits. He confessed that he had a doubt that his sister was in love with the mill master when he was in Crampton during his mother’s death. Although he wished he could converse with Mr. Thornton in person, he heartily gave his blessing. He also sent several gifts, chosen by him and his wife Dolores for Margaret and Mr. Thornton. He also invited them to visit Cadiz one day soon after their matrimony. Mr. Thornton promised Margaret that he would definitely make sure that a trip to Spain is arranged not just for them, but also for Mr. Hale, during the latter part of the year. His promise was rewarded with a kiss on his lips!

Margaret was cajoled to buy dresses of the newest fashion and season by Fanny. Mrs. Thornton insisted Fanny to let Margaret decide but however took hold of the wedding feast under her charge. Mr. Thornton was all too happy to see it come about and thankfully, Higgins and Williams took good care of the mill in his absence. Margaret asked him to arrange something for the mill workers as a token of their honesty and loyalty, and Mr. Thornton promised her that a feast would be arranged for them as well.

The days leading to the wedding came and the Shaws and the Lennoxes arrived in Milton. They managed to clearly show their disgust and unhappiness at first at the sight of the smoke and chimneys loitering in the city, but thanks to Captain Lennox who steered the conversations well. Margaret and Mr. Bell managed to assist too in this case, so that a disagreement between the two families did not arise. Henry scoffed in silence and often uttered a word or two when insisted by his elder brother.

Within some time. Edith, Aunt Shaw and Henry came to realize that Margaret and the mill master were deeply in love with each other. They absorbed the fact and became more agreeable since then, although it took Henry much more effort.

Two days before the wedding, Mr. Bell informed Thornton of his wedding gift-  making his goddaughter as his heir. He protested against the idea and assured that he can look after Margaret, her father- his father-in-law, and any children they would have all by himself. But the godfather insisted and said that since he had no relatives worthy of his own, he wanted Margaret and Thornton to be the sole in charge of it. Mr. Thornton gave in to the prospect but promised him that he would never take the wealth for granted and that it would belong to Margaret always. He later informed Margaret as well during one of their stolen meetings together, and she was thankful for Mr. Bell. He had been a steadfast support to the Hales, and if it wasn’t on his suggestion, she would have never stepped in Milton at all. Mr. Thornton felt overwhelmed to even think of such a possibility but his lady love assured him that everything would be alright, in Milton- their one and only home.

The day of the wedding came. The church was crowded with guests- respected mill masters, a few close acquaintances of business, Shaws, Lennoxes, Mr. Bell, the Higginses, the Boucher children, his mother, and sister, not to forget her flock of dandy friends and their friends and so on. Mr. Thornton stood anxiously on the altar with Mr. Watson as his best man. He was nervous and equally happy as he couldn’t wait for it all to be over and whisk his wife away to privacy. 

And at last, she entered with her father. She looked more angelic than she had ever been and his heart fluttered. How the next moments occurred he hardly remembered except for saying and hearing “I do”. After the procession, the couple shared a kiss. He was next elated to see her sign her name on the marriage registry as Margaret John Thornton . 

He wasn’t a man of much faith in God. His entire world had torn apart when his father left the world. And now, it would be patched up together eternally by his Margaret.