Secrets Past chp 6
Date: 6/6/98
From: barnster

Angelique was in love. That was the only way she could describe the way she felt.

She had heard talk of a handsome young American, who had come to Martinique, with an air of disinterest. There were always some stranger staying at the house. He would be no different.

That was, until she saw him. She had only caught a brief glimpse of his face, but it had been enough.

***

A party had been arranged at the house, and Barnabas Collins was among the guests.

His hopes that he could secure a business deal with the Du Pres, were fast becoming a reality. And he had found Monsieur Du Pres and his sister, Countess Natalie, to be charming hosts.

As he talked with them, he suddenly had the feeling that eyes were staring at him intently. He turned around, and scanned the crowded room. His eyes fastened on the most startling blue eyes he had ever seen. And the face! He doubted if he'd ever see another as beautiful as she.

Turning back to Andre Du Pres, he asked in fluent French, who the young woman was.

"Angelique Bouchard," he'd answered. "She's my daughter's servant."

"Servant?" he inquired in shock. Surely his host had been mistaken? Surely, someone that beautiful, couldn't be a servant?

He turned again, hoping to glimpse the woman again, but she had gone.

***

Two days later, he had a chance to meet Angelique. He had rounded a corner so unexpectedly, that he had quite literally; bumped into her, making her drop the utensils she was carrying.

He apologised profusely, and helped her pick up the scattered objects.

But as they reached for the same item, their hands met. She made no effort to move her hand, and neither did he. Their eyes locked.

"Parlez-vous anglaise?" he asked.

"Yes," she replied in a voice that made him tingle.

"Again, I apologise," he began in English, but she cut him off.

"It's all right, Monsieur Collins. It was my fault," she explained, at last moving her eyes from his perfect face. "Excuse-moi," she managed, and hastily rose to her feet, and left him standing watching after her.

***

All was silent, as Barnabas furtively made his way along the darkened hall.

He looked behind him, before knocking quietly on the door. It opened almost immediately, as if the occupant had been expecting him.

They fell into each others arms, as they kissed passionately...

To be continued.