~~Seven year old Ashton Jacobs was sitting in the parlor of his large Victorian home.
The doctors were visiting his mother right now, so he was waiting.
He blew a lock of black hair off of his forehead and sighed. The doctors always took so long!
But there had been something different about this visit.
Instead of just the doctor and the nurse, which was also his wife, the town's Preacher and a lawyer had come along. And so had the widowed Duke Gerard Hamilton.
They had been in the bedroom for nearly two hours now. Some of the house's maids were in there too.
Occasionally, Ashton could hear quiet talking and someone crying, but he didn't know why.
His mother had been bedridden for nearly a year now and his father had died in war before Ashton was even born.
“Everything's alright.” Colleen, the house's cook said, putting on her best smile “I've known your mama since she was a little girl. She'll be alright.”
Ashton nodded slowly “Okay.”
About that time, the bedroom door opened and the doctor, nurse, preacher and maids stepped out.
“You can see her now.” The doctor said with a slight nod “I... must be going.”
Ashton jumped up from his seat and ran into his mother's bedroom “Mama?” he whispered as he stepped up to the bed “Mama?”
Daisy Jacobs opened her eyes and smiled at her son “Hop up here, Sweetie.” As soon as he had obeyed she motioned across the room “I want you to meet someone. This is Duke Gerard Hamilton. He's going to be your father now.”
Ashton stared at the man for a moment then looked down at his mother “My father? Why do I need a father? I have you.”
“Yes you do. And I will always be with you.” Daisy laid her hand on his shoulder “Even if I'm not here.”
“Where do you mean?”
“I have to go now.” Daisy said gently “I have to leave you, Ashton. But I'll always be in your heart.”
“What?” the young boy gasped then he shook his head defiantly “But... Mama! Why do you have to go? Why can't you stay?”
“Everyone has a time when they must leave this world. And it's my turn.” she took a deep breath “Just promise me something. You will always be my sweet little boy who loves to help people. And you'll stay true to your heart even when everyone tries to turn you around.”
tears began welling up in his powder blue eyes “Why do you have to go?”
“Duke Gerard will take care of you, Honey. I promise.” Daisy's voice became strained as she gently touched his cheek “He even has some boys for you to play with.”
“That''s right, Son.” Duke Gerard said “You'll be a part of the family.”
Ashton simply threw his arms around his mother's neck and began to cry “I love you, Mommy.”
“I love you too, Sweetheart.” Daisy ran her hand over his hair, tears coursing down her cheeks “I always will. Never forget.”
It was a very few short moments later that Daisy took her last breath and died.
Ashton slowly raised himself and looked down at his mother's pale face “I promise, Mama.” he whispered then he kissed her cheek “I promise.”
 

2: Ashton

~~FOURTEEN YEARS LATER
“ASHTON!”
Ashton's eyes sprang open “Oh no.” he groaned as he saw the light streaming in through the pantry windows “I didn't!” he leapt up from his rug on the pantry floor and groaned “Oh man, my back.” then he ran out into the kitchen “Colleen?”
“I am so sorry, Hon!” The elderly cook gasped “I thought you were up! I would have woken you!”
“It's okay. Where's Hamilton?”
“In the parlor!”
“Thank you!” Ashont quickly kissed the old woman's cheek then rushed from the kitchen, down the hall and into the parlor “Sir?”
“Where have you been?” Duke Gerard shouted “You are the laziest person!”
“I don't think he meant to be late, Daddy.” Six year old Laura Hamilton said, flashing her father a wide grin and fluttering her dark green eyes.
“Not now, Laura. Daddy's mad.” Gerard said then he turned back to Ashton “What do you think I pay you for? To lay around all day?”
“But Daddy, you don't pay him!”
Ashton swallowed a threatening chuckle. Laura was always sticking up for him, reguardless of how many times her father got her in trouble.
“Laura, go sit.”
Laura stuck out her bottom lip then stomped over to a couch and sat down, her red bangs flopping down over her eyes.
“Alright...” Gerard turned back to Ashton “Alright now. Since you're already running late, you will not be permitted to even think about that rug of yours til midnight! Understood?”
“Yes, Sir.” Ashton nodded.
“First you'll head over to the Gordans' and...” The duke rattled off a list of fifteen items from weeding a two acre garden to scrubbing the outside of a three story house and anything else that needed done for seven different people around town “And then, when you're done, you come back here and plow that back five acres for our garden. Repaint the shed and be sure to take care of the horses. And don't forget, if anyone tells you to do something, you had better do it! Or else! I have a reputation to uphold!”
Ashton nodded again “Yes sir.” then he turned to leave.
“And Ashton.” The Duke added “Tell that old cook that if she doesn't start working faster, she will be fired.”
Ashton bit his lip and simply nodded, forcing himself not to stand up for the old cook. He'd done it once and they both had paid sorely for it.
He stepped out onto the front porch and shook his head “Another day.” Already the list he'd been given would take him well past midnight to complete. And he knew that all these people his stepfather volunteered him for would take no second thoughts to telling him more to do.
He looked up at the overcast sky and pushed a lock of black hair from his face then started down the driveway.
“Ashton!” Laura called, running after him with a piece of paper “Here!”
“What's this?”
“The list of your chores and the people you do them for.” Laura answered, pushing her bangs out of her face “And some extra stuff I heard the Bros' talking about.”
“What do Jaq and Josh want?” Ashton asked, scanning the list. Thankfully, Laura's six-year-old-misspellings weren't too hard to figure out.
“To see you beat.” Laura shrugged “But they'll take a side order on poetry books.”
Ashton's eyebrows lurched “Poetry books?”
“Yep. They're going to try and compose a 'romantical' letter to impress the princess.” Laura rolled her eyes “I say, good luck to 'em.” she turned and started to walk away “And I feel bad for the princess. The poets my brothers aren't.”
Ashton chuckled then headed for his first job at the Gordans' plantation.
As he walked up the driveway he saw Mrs. Gordan standing on the front porch tapping her foot impatiently.
“Late, Ashton?” Mrs. Gordan snapped “Our garden would have been choked before you got here!” she motioned towards the back yard “You know where it's at! Get going before I call your father!”
“Yes, Ma'am.” Ashton said quickly, then he headed off “Stepfather.” he said under his breath.
“And when you're done, chop some of those logs!” the woman shouted after him.
Ashton sighed “Unplanned chore number one.” he'd barely taken two steps before a mud ball smacked him right in the side of the head, followed by loud, mocking laughter.
He groaned. The Gordans' boy, Oliver and Ashton's youngest stepbrother, 17 year old, James, were standing by the corner of the house rolling in laughter.
Ashton just shook his head and continued on.
“Aw!” Oliver shouted “Is Ashey's feelings hurt? Or is he just scared?”
“I think he's scared!” James responded, then they started laughing again.
Ashton walked out to the garden and let out a long breath of air as he wiped the mud off the side of his face. It had been this way almost since his mother had died.
At first, they were nice to him. They had treated him like an addition to the family. But then, one day, they just stopped. Suddenly he was the outcast and the servant. He was a 'burden' to them. He was the one they took their anger out on. The one they threw things at just for 'fun'.
Then the Duke got remarried to Duchess Selena. She was nice to him. Not at all like a mother, but she wasn't mean. That's where Laura came from.
But Selena hadn't made it past the delivery. So now, Laura was the apple of Gerard's eye. His only little girl and angel.
She had been a blessed addition to the household and somehow had never picked up on the habit of demanding and throwing things. She treated Ashton like a brother and he couldn't help but love the spunky six year old.
Ashton shook his head then set to pulling the weeds. He had a lot of work to do and so little time to do it. Just then a large cold raindrop fell on his hand. He looked up at the sky as more started to fall.
He bit back a groan and forced himself to smile “Well... it'll make plowing easier.”
~*~*~*Ashton*~*~*~
She walked casually through the rain, watching as most people ran for cover. She just shrugged, her hands stuck deep in the pockets of her tattered brown skirt.
She jumped over a forming puddle and continued down the road “Everyone around here must be made of salt.” she chuckled to herself “As fast as they're moving, they must be melting.”
A few moments later, she was walking past the Lord and Lady Gordon's house when something caught her attention and she stopped.
Bent over working in their ridiculously large garden was a boy, who appeared to be right about... twenty-one. He worked quickly and efficiently as he pulled the weeds, not seeming to even notice the rain.
His clothes were faded, old and patched. His jet black hair was tousled and drenched from the rain.
But she did notice, however, that he was smiling. It looked a little forced, but he was smiling.
She pushed her golden hair over her shoulder and smiled slightly. Then she turned and ran for home.
~*~*~*Ashton*~*~*~
Colleen pushed open the small pantry door “He's up early. Better get moving.”
Ashton forced his eyes to open and peered up at the old woman “What?”
“Gerard's on the move.” She repeated “You might want to get moving yourself.”
“Alright.” Ashton climbed to his feet and stretched “How is it your back never gets used to being bent?”
The cook laughed “It wasn't made that way. What time did you get to bed?”
“The clock in the hall said four.” He answered, rubbing his neck “What time is it now?”
“Six.”
His blue eyes lit up “Hey! I got two hours of sleep! Is it my birthday?”
“Get out of here.” Colleen swatted him with a dish towel “He's probably headed to the parlor now.”
“Thank you.” he kissed her cheek then walked down the hall to the parlor and waited.
Laura came skipping in a minute later and smiled when she saw him “Jaq and Josh hate their books.”
“Is that good or bad?” Ashton smiled.
“Always good.” Laura clasped her hands behind her back “You should hear some of the things they came up with.” then she started mimicking “Your eyes so bright. You cheeks so cherry. And I do believe it's me you should marry.”
Ashton shook his head “Oh boy.”
“I told you, they stink.”
“Ashton!” Gerard shouted as he entered the room, then he jumped when he spotted the boy “What...?”
“Sir?” Ashton bit back a smile.
The Duke stared at him for a long moment “Right. Well for starters that rain storm completely cluttered the Gordans' yard and ruined their garden.”
Ashton swallowed a groan. The Gordans again. And right after he'd just taken care of that garden!
“Then the Peterson's want their gutters cleaned and...”
Ashton saw Laura scribbling quickly on a piece of paper and smiled. She sent him a large wink then continued writing.
“Then when you get back I want our fence white washed. Got it?” Gerard finished.
“Yes sir.” Ashton nodded.
“Good. Now Git!” he pointed to the door “And don't let me hear any complaints about you! Everyone was complaining about you being late and working slow! If that happens again, you'll be whipped!”
“Yes, Sir.” Ashton turned and left the house. He let out a deep breath as he spotted the large puddles across the yard.
He'd been so tired by time he was halfway done with his work he hadn't been paying a lick of attention to the rain.
“Here's your list, Sir.” Laura did a sweeping bow as she held out the paper “Signed, sealed and delivered.”
“Thanks, Kid.” he ruffled the top of her red hair “You'd better go do your homework.”
Laura groaned the threw her hands into the air dramatically “Oh the evils of this world!” then she went back inside.
Ashton unfolded the paper and read off the extra things that had been added by the step brothers as he walked through the middle of town “A dozen roses. Six dozen chocolates? And stationary?” he shook his head “Weird stepbrothers.”
“Hey Ashton!” James suddenly shouted from somewhere nearby.
Aston spun around to see James and Oliver both holding large balls of mud.
“Catch this!” Oliver shouted, then with a loud laugh the two boys hurled the balls of mud through the air.
Ashton ducked quickly and watched as the mud balls flew over his head. But not a second later, he heard a loud:
“Hey!” followed by a large splash.
Oliver and James' mouth fell open then they took off running “We hit a girl!”

3: Chloe

~~Ashton spun around and his eyes widened.
Sitting waist deep in a puddle of mud was the girl. Her golden pony tale was slung over her shoulder. She was wearing a tan shirt that's sleeves were rolled up to her elbows, though not at all straight. A brown vest with a small sleeve extension and a brown, tattered and patched. skirt. He couldn't see her face at the moment because she was wiping the side of her face on her arm, trying to get the mud off.
“I am so sorry!” Ashton said as he hurried towards her.
What happened next completely surprised him, she laughed. Then she looked up at him, her electric blue eyes sparkling “It's fine.” she chuckled again “A little mud never hurt anyone.” then she frowned “Except for my shoes.”
That's when Ashton noticed the pair of sparkly pink and white converse high top tennis shoes with shiny gold laces.
She noticed his stare and smiled “They were a birthday present.”
“Ah.” he offered her a hand “Need help up?”
“I thought you'd never ask.” she grabbed his hand with a surprising grip, then he pulled her from the puddle “Thanks.” she shook off her skirt then shrugged “Eh. It's no more worse for wear.”
He watched her slightly concerned “I am sorry.”
She blinked then stared at him blankly “For what?”
“The mud.”
One of her eyebrows raised “If I recall, you're not the one who threw it. Am I right?”
“Yes. But it was aimed at me.”
“All the better reason to duck.” she pushed a strand of golden hair out of her face “I'm Chloe, by the way.”
He nodded “I'm...”
“ASHTON!” Howard Benkly, the store owner shouted “Come stock some shelves before I call your father!”
“Step-father.” Ashton said under his breath “And I'm supposed to be heading to the Gordans'.”
Chloe glanced at the store owner then back at Ashton “Need help?”
“It's pretty heavy lifting.” he answered.
She placed her hands on her hips, her sparkling eyes taking the edge out of the scowl “And your point is?”
A smile tugged at the left corner of his mouth “If you think you can handle it.”
“I wouldn't mind trying.”
“Come on!” Mr. Beakly shouted “Before I up the prices on your groceries!”
Ashton let out a breath of air and ran for the store. Chloe quickly followed “Is he always like this?”
“Mm-hm.” he glanced back at her “So is everyone else.”
“Everyone else?” she ran a few steps to catch up “Who all do you work for?”
“Anyone who wants me.” He grabbed a large crate that was sitting by the door “It's my stepfather's orders.” then he walked towards one of the long aisles.
Chloe frowned “That's... wrong.” then she grabbed another crate and followed him “How long have you been doing this?”
“Since I was eight.” He walked down an aisle and sat down the crate “Be right back.” then disappeared around the corner and returned a few moments later with a ladder “But I'm used to it. I'm kind of everyone's handyman.” he grabbed a crowbar that he had brought with the ladder and wrenched the top off one of the crates “So what do you do?”
Chloe grabbed a couple jars from the crate and waited til Ashton had reached the top of the ladder “Anything that's needed, really. I just do what I'm told... most of the time.”
He nodded slightly as he took the jars from her and placed them on a shelf “It's strange. I'm sure I would have seen you before.”
“I don't get out too often.” she shrugged slightly “I have a great aunt who lives on the outskirts of town. She's the one who raised me.” she handed some more jars up to him “Several years ago she fell ill and never quite recovered, so I began working to pay the bills. It's the least I could do for her after all she's done for me.”
Ashton leaned an arm on the top of the ladder and grinned down at her “Is she the one who gave you those shoes?”
“As a matter of fact.” She grabbed some more jars from the crate and handed them up to him “We never had much. So when I fell in love with these shiny shoes in Mistress Meryl's Shoe Shop window, she worked hard to get them for me.” she laughed softly “That was a long time ago... before the shoes even fit.” she leaned back on her heels and clicked the toes together “Now I never take them off.” she smiled “Plus they're the only pair of shoes I have.”
Ashton nodded slowly “Sounds like a nice lady.”
“She's the best.” Chloe handed the last of the jars out of the crate up to him “So I take it you work a lot.”
He chuckled “Sometimes it feels like that's all I ever do.” then he stepped down the ladder.
An hour later, the last of the cans were placed on the shelves and Ashton returned the ladder to it's post “Thanks.”
Chloe nodded “No problem. Where you off to now?”
“The Gordons.” a smile crept across his face “Would you like to come?”
“As long as you don't mind the company.” she replied.
“I'm not used to it but I don't mind it either.” he nodded towards the door “Come on. Wait, you don't have work to do today?”
She shook her head “I'm off today for a change and didn't know what to do with my time, so...”
He nodded then led the way down the road to the Gordons and out to the garden. He bit back a groan as he caught sight of the area he had worked so hard on the night before. It seemed like every tree in the town had lost some branches and thrown them all in the Gordon's garden.
“What came through here?” Chloe mumbled as she looked at all the tree branches and whatnot.
“Storm.” Ashton answered “Could you grab the rake? It's in the shed.”
“Sure.” then she ran off.
Ashton chuckled as he watched her go. Never in his life...
That's pretty much how it went all day long. She went with him to everyone of his chores, literally cutting the time spent on them in half. And even that time seemed to speed by with the talkative girl and to his surprise, he was heading home to do his chores before supper time.
Chloe wiped the dirt on her hands off on her skirt “Well, I'd better run. It was nice to meet you, Ashton.”
He smiled “Same to you, Chloe. Thanks for the help. I have never gotten done that fast before.”
“It was fun.” she took a small step back “Well... I should go. Hopefully I'll see you later.”
“Hopefully.”
She sent him one last smile before she turned and took off running.
Ashton smiled slightly “Definitely.”
~*~*~*Ashton*~*~*~
Chloe walked into the small cabin and gently closed the door behind, giving it a little extra shove so she could latch the door “Great-Aunt Naomi?” she called “I'm home.”
“I can hear that.” the elderly lady responded as she walked into the room, leaning heavily on a stick “Did you enjoy your day off?”
“Actually, yes.” Chloe smiled “I worked all day. And you know how that always makes you feel good.”
“Child, I declare. You work more than the average bear.”
Chloe laughed “Actually, I met a boy today who... works a lot more than I do.”
“A boy?” Naomi grinned “What's his name?”
“Ashton.”
“Oh I know him. He's a sweet youngster. Right about your age too.”
“Aunt Naomi.” Chloe frowned “It's nothing like that. I just helped him out with he ridiculously long list of things to do.”
Naomi chuckled “Longer than that list you get from the princess?”
“Well... not quite. But more time consuming.” Chloe walked across the room to the small kitchen and sat a basket of food on their small table “I brought some dinner. Are you hungry?”
“I'm always hungry, Honey.” the old woman responded “Wish I could help you with the stove.”
“Don't worry. I can get it.” Chloe grabbed an ax that was hanging on the wall “I'll be back in a minute.”
Naomi shook her head and smiled as she lit a couple of lanterns around the room because the sun was starting to set.
A few moments later Chloe returned with an armload of wood “I have to be at the castle early tomorrow.” she said as she stacked some of the logs in the oven “And knowing them princess, I'll be home late.”
“Alrighty.” Naomi nodded she handed a match down to the girl “Then we had better eat and get to bed.”

 

4: Another Day

~~Ashton was whistling quietly to himself as he stepped in the kitchen door and walked over to the wash basin to clean his hands.

"You're back early." Colleen said in shock "Was everyone on vacation?"

Ashton chuckled and shook his head "Nope. I had a helper today."

"Well that'd be the first."

"Tell me about it. And she can weed a garden way quicker than I can."

"She?"

"Mm-hm. Chloe." he dried his hands off then tossed the towel back onto it's rack.

"Chloe. Chloe..." Colleen thought a moment "Oh! Chloe Lane?"

Ashton raised an eyebrow "I have no idea."

"Wears colorful shoes?"

"Yeah, that's her."

Colleen grinned "I know that girl. She's a sweetheart." then her smile widened "And almost a year younger than you."

Ashton froze "Colleen..."

"I was just saying!" the elderly cook laughed "I haven't seen her great-aunt Naomi since... well... since after your mother died." she shook her head "Things have gotten so crazy around here."

"So... you know where she lives?" Why he wanted to know that, he wasn't sure.

"Of course I do! I doubt she's moved from that small shack on the outskirts of town." She smiled "I should really try to get over there. I hear she hasn't been too well since that influenza swept through." she patted Ashton's shoulder "Next time you see Chloe, ask about Naomi for me, will ya?"

"If I see her again." Ashton responded "Knowing my luck, it won't be too soon."

~*~*~*Ashton*~*~*~

The sun was just peeking over the horizon when Chloe let her small home headed up the hill to the castle.

She smiled to herself. She loved this time of morning. Everything was so quiet and peaceful, a gently breeze and the sun turning everything to gold.

She knew once she reached the palace 'peacefulness' would diminish. Working as the princess's personal maid had its ups and downs. It paid enough to keep up the bills and buy food, but it also kept her busy all day.

It's wasn't that Princess Angelina was mean, she was just demanding.

"Good morning, Chloe." the guard at the gate greeted.

"Hi, Jason." Chloe smiled "Nice day to be guarding."

"It is indeed." he nodded as he ushered her through "Have a good day."

"You too!" then she ran up the castle steps and through the door. She had barely gotten the door closed behind her before she heard:

"Where is Chloe!?"

She cringed and shot up the steps to the third floor, down a hall on the right and into the first set of large double doors "I'm here!"

"It's about time!" Princess Angelina huffed "Where have you been?"

"Walking here." Chloe answered "What would you like to wear today?"

"Hm... let's do... purple. It makes my eyes come out. "

"Yes, Your Highness."

"My clothes need washed today." Angelina instructed "And my jewelry is starting to look a bit dull. Be sure to polish it and don't tarnish the diamonds!"

"Yes, princess." the she handed the dress required dress to her "As ordered."

"Perfect! Oh, Damien is coming today. We're going to be discussing wedding plans, so make yourself scarce."

"Yes, Ma'am." Chloe nodded "Has there been a date set yet?"

"Mm... not yet." Angelina answered "We're still waiting for some things to be cleared."

"But you've been engaged for nearly three years." Chloe shook her head "Seems like a long time to... wait."

"Oh, Chloe. You'll understand when you get engaged." Angelina glanced back at her "Well... if you get engaged."

Chloe's eyebrows raised but she said nothing as she helped the princess into her dress.

"There." Angelina flipped her bright red hair over her shoulder and looked at her reflection in the mirror "Well, tell me I look good."

Chloe chuckled "You look amazing. That color really does bring out your eyes."

"Oh I know. Purple does that to green sometimes." then she walked over to her vanity table and sat down "You know, Chloe. You should really get some new clothes."

"You know I can't afford new clothes, Angelina." Chloe responded, quickly slipping a couple of diamond studded clips into the girl's hair "Food and house is a bit more important."

Angelina nodded, then she frowned "What did I say about calling my by my real name?"

"To only do it when we're alone in your bedroom so no one knows that I call you that." Chloe grinned at the reflection of the princess "Kay-d-kay-kay?"

"Kay-d what?"

Chloe sighed "It's a longer version oh 'Okay'. Kay-d-kay?"

Angelina raised an eyebrow "Kay...d-kay."

~*~*~*Ashton*~*~*~

"Today you only have one chore." Duke Gerard said as he sipped his morning coffee.

Ashton's eyebrows raised "One?"

"Yes. One." the man leaned back in his chair, a slight smirk on his face "Adam Korenz's herd of cattle panicked and smashes several yards of his fence."

Adam Korenz was one of the hardest, grouchiest, meanest men in the town. Nobody would help him with anything. Even for pay.

"You understand?" Gerard snapped.

"Yes, Sir." Ashton nodded.

"Good. Now get out of here."

"Good luck." Laura whispered to him.

Ashton just smiled and sent her a slight nod.

"Laura!" Gerard shouted.

The six year old rolled her eyes "Coming, Daddy!"

~*~*~*Ashton*~*~*~

Chloe followed the princess to the throne room where the king and queen were sitting on their thrones. Lord Damien El'Gate, Angelina's fiance, was also in the room.

"Oh, Damien! You're early!" Angelina gasped "More time to go over the plans, right?"

"Of course, my dear." Damien bowed "Shall we go to the library?"

Chloe frowned ever so slightly as she watched the pair disappear around a corner. She had the hardest time believing that Angelina actually was in love with that man... or that he was in love with her. Besides the fact he was nearly fifteen years older than her, he never really seemed to care about the wedding plans. He just went with what Angelina said, never made a suggestion but, who knows. Maybe that was just his personality.

"Oh, Chloe." Queen Mary Margaret said "The cook requested your help in the kitchen. The you're also wanted in the garden."

"Yes, Your Majesty." Chloe curtsied, then she turned and left the room.

King Matthias smiled "I like that girl."

"So do I." The queen said "She's so sweet. And I do believe the only person that Angelina actually enjoys being around."

~*~*~*Ashton*~*~*~

"Hurry up!" Adam Korenz shouted "I want that fence mended before dawn!"

Ashton pushed the last log into the back of the wagon and glanced at the sinking sun "Yes, sir. That was the last of the logs." then he closed the gate on the back and latched it.

"Good!" the man climbed into the front seat "You can ride hanging onto the back!"

"Yes, sir." he had barely stepped up and grabbed the top of the gate before the wagon started rolling.

Ashton groaned slightly at the pain in his back. He'd been hauling lumber all morning, and the day had seemed to just drag by. He crossed his arms over the gate and watched as the scenery passed.

"Enjoy the rest!" Korenz shouted back to him "'Cause once we get to the ranch there will be no stopping til the fence is done! So be prepare not to even see your bed tonight!"

"Yes.. sir." Ashton put on a tight smile then continued to watch the passing buildings and trees.

He gave a start as the gate suddenly jerked as someone suddenly appeared beside him.

"Hi." a cheery voice said.

He stared at her for a long moment before he laughed "Chloe! What are you... how did you get up here?"

"I jumped." she responded "Got off a little early, much to my surprise, and decided to grab a ride home before it got dark."

He raised an eyebrow "You're afraid of the dark?"

"Terrified." She laughed slightly "I hate it when I have to work late which is the usual, because then I have to run home in the dark..." her face reddened slightly "With my eyes closed."

Ashton laughed, he couldn't help it "How many people have you plowed over?"

"None. Everyone just clears out of the way." she grinned and looked up at him "Where you heading?"

"Korenz. Fix a massive hole in his fence." he lowered his voice "I cannot tell you how many pieces of lumber I had to return because he decided they weren't good enough then had to get a different one."

"He can be hard." Chloe nodded slightly "But just be nice and smile... eventually, he'll smile back."

"What's going on back there?" Korenz suddenly shouted as he turned in his seat "Oh. Evenin' Miss Lane."

Chloe waved at him "Hi Mr. Korenz. The cows didn't get into the garden this time did they?"

"No Ma'am." Korenz smiled "It's still standin'." then he turned back to driving.

Ashton stared at the girl "How...?" he shook his head then whispered "I've only heard horror stories about him."

"Like I said, just be nice, obey and smile when he gets mad. He'll give you his last piece of bread once you prove yourself. He's just the way he is because he's had a hard life." She glanced around "Well, this is where I hop off."

"Oh, hold on. Colleen, she's always kind of been like a grandmother to me. She was wondering how your Great-Aunt Naomi is."

Chloe smiled and nodded "She's fine. Tell her to drop by if she gets the chance. We're still in the same place. See ya!" then she jumped off the back of the wagon and waved "Bye, Mr. Korenz!"

The old man sent her a salute "Good day, Miss Lane." then he looked back at Ashton, the smallest hint of a smile on his face "Now that girl is one worth keeping."

Ashton stared at the man "What?"

"I didn't say nothin'."

A slight chuckle came from the man as Ashton turned to watch Chloe disappear around a bend. He'd only met her twice, but there was just something about her. But what, he wasn't sure.

He glanced up at the old man driving "Whatever it is," he said to himself "I'm not the only one who sees it."

(Oh yeah, I updated. I updated, oh yeah!

So, this was more of a filler chapter, sorry. Just trying to introduce a few more characters that are important to the story. I hope you enjoyed!

Thanks for all the favs, follows, reviews AND patience!

One more thing... I'm also looking for a different name for this story because... well... it's not just about Ashton anymore. It kinda was before my idea took a twist but... hey. So, if anyone thinks up a new title PLEASE let me know! I just might choose it ;)

Laterz!)

5: In the Castle

~~"We set a date last night!" Angelina squealed "We're getting married in four weeks!"

"Wow." Chloe said slowly "So soon."

"Well we've been engaged long enough." the princess sat down at her vanity table "There's going to be a royal ball thrown at the end of the week to celebrate!" she turned to look at the maid "So I'm going to need a new dress... and a wedding dress! I have all the designs coming in and I want you to handle them!"

"Yes, Ma'am." Chloe nodded.

"The fabric should arrive tomorrow... and the decorations..." the princess stood up and walked over to her wardrobe "Everything must be perfect!" then she looked over at Chloe and frowned slightly "There's something different about you."

"Why?" Chloe asked in shock "What do you mean?"

"There's kind of a... glow on your face."

"There is?" Chloe's hands covered her cheeks "What... do you mean?"

"I don't know." Angelina shrugged "I was just saying." then she went back to talking about the wedding plans.

Chloe sighed. Honestly, she had been feeling a lot more... happy? Lately. She just didn't know why.

~*~*~*Ashes and Gold*~*~*~

"Ashton!" Duke Gerard shouted, basically running into the yard where the boy was working "What are you doing here!?"

Ashton looked up at the man confused "This was part of my to-do list you gave me this morning."

"I don't care!" the man grabbed Ashton's shirt collar and yanked him to his feet "The king and queen are requesting extra help for their daughter's wedding! Get up to the castle NOW!"

"Yes sir." Ashton nodded then he took off.

"And don't let me hear a word of complaint against you!" Gerard shouted after him "Or you'll be sorry!"

~*~*~*Ashes and Gold*~*~*~

"Thank you very much, Ashton." Queen Mary said "We appreciate the help."

"Yes, Your Majesty." Ashton bowed "Where would you like me to start?"

"Go find the head maid, she's probably in the kitchen." King Saville answered "She'll tell you what to do. She can be a little demanding."

"I think I can handle that, Your Highness. Thank you." then Ashton left the room.

"He seems like a nice young man." Mary Margaret whispered "And he's handsome."

The king shook his head "He'd better watch out. We've got a lot of young, unmarried maids around here."

The queen chuckled "I think the only one he doesn't have to worry about is Chloe."

~*~*~*Ashes and Gold*~*~*~

"Oh, look at the design!" Angelina was holding up a drawing of a long, flowing, multiple layered wedding dress.

"Wow." Chloe stared at the picture "And I only have four weeks to make this?"

"And the ball gown." Angelina added, sitting the picture down, she plucked a grape off of a tray that Chloe was holding "This wedding will be perfect, then Damien and I will be crowned!"

"Congratulations." Chloe smiled as she walked towards a small table to sit down the snack platter.

"Oh, have you seen the new servant?" the princess suddenly said "He's cute as they come. I think his name was... Asher?"

Chloe gasped and spun around, almost sending the food flying across the room "Ashton?"

"Oh, yes! That was it!" Angelina nodded then she looked at the girl suspiciously "Do you know him?"

Chloe felt her face heat up, and again she wasn't sure why "We've met."

"Oh. Well anyways..."

~*~*~*Ashes and Gold*~*~*~

"And as soon as you're done here please come back to the kitchen." The head maid, Bernice said "Royals really should give their help a little more time to prepare a wedding and a ball! Either that or pay us more."

Ashton smiled and nodded "Yes, Ma'am."

"Thank you." then the woman hurried off.

Ashton looked around at the massive garden he was standing in. It looked pretty well kept with the exception of a few weeds and whatnot, so he got to work on the nearest flower bed.

A few minutes later he heard steps running towards him but didn't look up til someone dropped to their knees beside him.

"Hey!"

"Chloe?" he said in shock "Now what are you doing here?"

"I'm Princess Angelina's personal maid." She answered "And I help around the castle on occasion too. What are you doing here?"

He leaned back on his heels and smiled down at her "Duke Gerard told me to come up here to help with wedding plans and whatnot."

"Well, there's plenty to do." she plucked a weed from the flower bed and rolled it between her thumb and forefinger "So... I guess I'll see you around."

"I guess so." he nodded "There's enough going on to keep me busy for the next four weeks."

"You don't even know the half." she blew a strand of gold hair from her face "There's a ball at the end of the week so I have to make Angelina a new gown and sew her wedding dress! She doesn't trust anyone else to do it so... yeah." then she lowered her voice "But personally, I'm not too excited about the wedding. I think she could so much better than Lord Damien El'Gate." she shook her head "I just don't like him."

"Well there's a new one for you." Ashton teased "I thought you liked everyone."

"Now I never said that." she slapped his arm then pushed herself back to her feet "Well, I'm sure my non-scheduled five minute break is way over. I just had to come see if it was true that you were here."

"I am." he grinned "And who knows, maybe we'll get off at the same time and maybe... I can walk you home? Just so you don't have to do it alone in the dark."

Heat began to once again creep into her face as she smiled "I think I'd like that." then she took a small step back "I should go. I have a lot to do."

"So do I."

"Okay. Yeah." she took a few more steps away "Bye." then she turned and ran.

Ashton chuckled quietly to himself as he returned to weeding the garden. He was starting to like this Castle-thing more and more. And it definitely wasn't the work.

~*~*~*Ashes and Gold*~*~*~

"Boy, you're like a well oiled machine!" Bernice gushed "I do believe that between you and Chloe this wedding and ball just might happen! In the other order of course."

Ashton didn't know how to respond to the praise, so he just smiled and glanced around "I only saw Chloe once today. I take it she doesn't get around much."

"Oh she gets around." Bernice responded "She just is never in one place long. The royal family did a good turn hiring that one. Got a heart of gold."

Ashton nodded "I noticed."

"Well, you run along home and get some sleep. You need to be here bright and early tomorrow." the woman waved him off "Good night, Ashton."

"Good night, Mrs. Bernice." then he headed towards the front door where he hoped Chloe was waiting.

As he was passing the throne room he couldn't help but notice the sound of voices speaking in low urgent tones.

He stepped closer and listened.

"Saville," Queen Mary Margaret said "You know as well as I do what the deal was. We have to tell Angelina."

"But, Sweetheart, she's so excited. Why don't we just... let it lay."

"No. I should never had agreed to it in the first place! Angelina can not be crowned queen until we fix this. It wouldn't be right. It was your idea and I stupidly agreed. I wish I never had now."

The king sighed "Margie, listen. I think we did what was best and I believe all has turned out well. So why not just..."

"Saville! No!" The queen snapped "You wrote down the agreement and sealed it. You can't break it. We have to tell Angelina and make sure this is right before she gets married."

King Seville nodded slowly "I know you're right, Honey. I'd just hate to ruin Angelina's happiness with... all this. Let's at least wait until after the ball. Just let her enjoy that without any worries."

Mary Margaret let out a long breath "Alright, I agree. She does need something to look forward to before we dump this on her. But after the ball we fix this."

"Right after. I promise."

6: Am or Not In Love?

~~"Thanks for walking me home." Chloe said "It's kind of nice not making a run for it."

Ashton smiled "It's my pleasure." he glanced up at the stars "So I take it you're not so scared of the dark when there's someone with you."

"Still terrified." she responded "But what kind of person would I be if I left my escort behind?"

They laughed quietly then walked in silence for several minutes.

Ashton kicked at a small rock "Hey, Chloe? Is there... anything that could stop the wedding?"

"Not that I know of." she shook her head "Not unless one of them decided to call off the wedding." she looked up at him "Why?"

"I just... heard the king and queen talking." he answered, then he told her about the whole conversation.

Chloe frowned "That's odd. As far as I know they were excited about the wedding." she blew a strand of hair from her face "But Angelina will be upset if something interrupts that wedding."

"It just seemed strange." Ashton shrugged.

"I agree. For a moment I thought you were wanting to stop the wedding."

His eyebrows lurched and he stopped "Why would I do that?"

"I don't know." she grinned teasingly "Some say Angelina's beauty can drive a man to do things he wouldn't do otherwise."

"Eh, she's not my type."

"Oh, you have a type?" she countered.

A smile worked its way across his face "I might. And what about you?"

She clasped her hands behind her back "I possibly have a type. But I'll never tell."

"Let me take a guess..." he stepped towards her "A knight in shinning armor on a valiant white steed, right?"

"As poetic as that sounds, no." he was standing so close now she had to look up at him "Knights in shinning armor have never had to fight." her heart skipped a beat as her eyes met his "Its the one that's dirty and scarred with the beat up armor that will fight for you." then he was so close that she could see those tiny golden flecks in his powder blue eyes "The one that... will always love you."

He gently brushed that ever present errant curl from her face. She glanced away from him for a moment then their eyes met once more.

Then, in a breathtaking moment he closed the distance between them. But when there was barely a heartbeat between them, a door nearby opened, flooding the couple with light.

"Chloe?" Great-aunt Naomi called "Are you there?"

"Uh... " Chloe glanced from her great-aunt aunt to Ashton then quickly took a step back.

Ashton ran a hand through his hair and smiled at her "Well... good night, Chloe."

She nodded, her face flushed "Yeah. Thanks again for... the walk."

"No problem." He took a step backwards "I'll see you tomorrow, Chloe."

"Good night, Ashton." she smiled then ran to where her great-aunt was waiting.

"Good night... Chloe." he said one last time.

She glanced at him one last time before she closed the door.

"I'm sorry, sweetheart." Great-aunt Naomi smiled mischievously "Next time I'll look out the window first."

Chloe just shook her head "It's late. How about some supper?"

~*~*~*Ashes and Gold*~*~*~

Ashton carefully closed the kitchen door behind him as not to awaken anyone in the house, and headed for his pantry bed..

"You were out late." Colleen commented, scaring Ashton clean out of his skin "I was getting worried."

He smiled and quickly kissed the old lady's cheek "Sorry. There's lots to do at the castle."

"Working doesn't put that smile on your face." she stared at him suspiciously "But Chloe Lane does."

He rubbed his forehead "You got me. She works at the castle as Princess Angelina's personal maid,"

"Oh really? How fun!" she crossed her arms "Did you walk her home?"

He stared at her "Are you a mind reader?"

"No. I just know you, Son." she patted his shoulder "She's a special one-of-a-kind."

"So everyone keeps telling me." he shook his head "It was so weird tonight. I... couldn't stop saying her name. Everything I said ended with... Chloe." he raked his hand through is black locks "She probably thought I was weird."

"She probably didn't even notice." the old cook's eyes sparkled "Well, Honey. You need to get some sleep. Work comes early in the morning."

"Mm-hm. Good night." then he walked into the pantry and collapsed onto his rug.

Colleen gently pulled the door closed then smiled into the empty kitchen "He just might get that happily ever after he deserves... and so will she."

~*~*~*Ashes and Gold*~*~*~

"This ball will be the talk of the kingdom!" Angelina spun around her room happily "That is until the wedding!"

Chloe smiled "You're really sure he's the one for you?"

"Of course I am!" the princess sat down on the edge of her bed "It's like a fairytale come true!"

"So you do love him?"

"I... of course I do." she lifted her chin "Why wouldn't I?"

"I was just asking." Chloe sat down on the bed beside her "Can I ask you a question?"

"Mm-hm."

"How did you know you were in love with him? I mean, what made you realize?"

Angelina went quiet for a moment "Well... I don't really know. Never really had that sparky feeling. Why?"

"Just wondering." she looked down at her hands which were clasped together in her lap.

"Oh..." the princess's eyes widened "Chloe Lane, you're in love aren't you?"

"What!?" the girl in question jumped to her feet "No! Why would you... what makes you say..." she sighed "I don't know." she walked over to the window that overlooked the garden. She could see him helping repair the pavilion "There's something about him. And I feel so... different when he's around. I don't know how to explain it."

Angelina laughed "You may not know but your face does."

Chloe blinked a couple of times then looked over at the princess "What?"

"It's written all over your face!" she exclaimed, flipping her red hair over her shoulder "You are in love!"

Chloe shook her head "I barely even know him, Angelina."

"Well, there's plenty of time for that."

~*~*~*Ashes and Gold*~*~*~

Ashton stood by quietly as Lord Damien gave some servants some orders of things he wanted done and whatnot til the man finally turned to face him.

"Oh, finally." Damien huffed "Where have you been?"

Ashton raised an eyebrow "Right here."

"Don't you dare speak to me with such disrespect! Gerard was right about you. You are impertinent!"

A slow frown set on the boy's face "You know Duke Gerard?"

"Of course I do." Lord Damien snapped "In fact I've invited him to come stay in the palace til the wedding."

Ashton's eyes widened "What!?"
"Don't talk back to me, Slave. Gerard said that you were at my complete disposal so Just do your job." with that the man turned and stormed away.

A sigh escaped the boy as he ran a hand through his hair. So his step family and Lord Damien were going to be here? This dream had just turned into a nightmare.

(Sorry for the shorter chapters, but here they are. Hope you enjoy!

Laterz!)

7: Needing Help

~~Ashton rubbed the back of his neck and stepped out into the garden. His step-family had arrived about three hours ago, and it had been non-stop ever since. Besides having to do everything the head maid had assigned him to, he now had to deal with the demands of his family and Lord Damien.

"Ashton!"

He glanced around and spotted Laura standing nearby with a daisy chain on her head, Chloe was kneeling beside her.

"This is who I was telling you about." Laura whispered to the other girl "Isn't he handsome?"

Chloe laughed softly "We've met."

Ashton smiled and walked over to them "What's going on?"

"Chloe just showed me how to make a daisy tiara!" Laura jumped with excitement "We definitely need another girl in the house, huh, Ashton?"

"Hm... I don't know. You're a bit prone to jealousy." he sat his hand on top of her red hair and looked down at her.

She clasped her hands behind her back and grinned "I wouldn't be if it was Chloe." then she got a thoughtful expression on her face "But... none of my brothers would be right for her. And definitely not my father because he's old! So I guess she'd have to marry you, Ashton."

Chloe laughed quietly and began picking at a piece of grass that was nearby.

"I don't know about that." he answered slowly.

"Why not?" the six year old stared at him with wide eyes "You wouldn't want to marry Chloe?"

Chloe bit her lip and continued picking at the grass. She was curious to hear his answer.

"Laura..." he looked around quickly "Why don't you... go see the ponies in the stables?"

"Oooh! Ponies!" then the child took off.

He shook his head "Kids."

"Hate it when they throw out questions that have no right answer?" Chloe looked up at him and smiled.

"So badly." he responded with a shake of his head, then he offered her a hand and pulled her to her feet "And Laura asks a lot of those."

"Well, she's a little girl who has a lot to learn." she crossed her arms and looked around the garden "You know she adores you."

"Yeah. She used to be my only friend." he stuck his hands in his pockets "So... do you need an escort home tonight?"

"I have some shopping to do, so I won't worry you with it."

"It's not a problem."

"I know." she took a step towards the castle "I'll see you later, Ashton." then she walked away.

He watched her leave, a smile forcing itself across his face.

Laura was suddenly standing beside him, an impish grin causing her freckled nose to crinkle "I think you like her."

Ashton looked down at her shocked "What!?"

"You like her." the child repeated spinning back and forth "You do you do you do!"

"Laura..."

"A-tut-tut-tut my man." she nudged his leg with her elbow "Don't speak. Just bask in the moment." then she skipped away.

He ran a hand over his eyes "I can't believe that girl is only six."

"Seven in two weeks!" she shouted back right before she disappeared inside the castle.

~*~*~*Ashes and Gold*~*~*~

"ASHTON!" the shouts rang through the whole castle, coming from three different directions.

Bernice frowned "If someone didn't know your name, they definitely do now."

He sent her a slight smile "Basically a celebrity."

She rolled her eyes "You'd better run and see what those buffoons want but please hurry back."

"Yes, Ma'am." he took off running up the stairs just as the shouts came again "What?" he asked, pushing open Jaq's room door.

The boy tossed him a roll of paper "I need this ASAP! You do know what that means, right?"

"Yeah." Ashton went to back out of the room but the other boy stopped him.

"And have it done inside the hour."

"I'll try."

"You'd better or father will have your head."

Ashton walked to the next door and pushed it open "What, James?"

The seventeen year old shrugged with smirk "Just wanted to make you walk. Get out."

He bit back a groan as he pulled the door closed and was slightly startled to find Chloe was standing right there.

"What is with those boys?" she asked. She had some hampers of clothes tucked under her arms "They've been screaming your name all morning,"

"It's their highlight." Ashton answered with a shrug "I'm used to it. Except normally it's the town calling me." then he went to see what Duke Gerard wanted.

Chloe shook her head then went on her way.

"Yes, Sir?" Ashton asked as he stepped into the room.

Duke Gerard and Lord Damien were sitting in two overstuffed chairs, apparently having a serious conversation.

"Just tell someone to bring us up some tea." the Duke snapped "Like that blond maid that's always running around here."

"I'm afraid Chloe's too busy." Ashton answered slowly "But I'll find... someone."

Lord Damien snorted "Get that useless girl to bring us some tea! NOW!"

He bristled, but remained calm as he nodded and left the room "No wonder she doesn't like him." then he headed back towards the kitchen.

Chloe was talking to Bernice when he walked through the door.

"What did they want?" the head maid asked.

"The Duke and Lord Damien want Chloe to take them some tea."

Chloe raised an eyebrow "Oh they do, do they?" then a slight smirk crossed her face "I'd be happy to."

Bernice's eyebrows raised as she watched the girl start preparing the beverage "Alright dear." then she looked at Ashton "This ought to be good."

Chloe hummed as she poured the hot tea them mixed in a few teaspoons of sugar and headed up upstairs.

Ashton followed, curious to see what she was going to do.

She simply walked into the room and sat the tray down.

"It's about time!" Duke Gerard snapped "Now get out of here!"

"Yes, Sir." She left the room, making sure to close it behind her and smiled.

"What did you do?" Ashton whispered.

"Just a minute." she grinned "Three... two... and..."

"Gah!" the shout suddenly came from the room "This terrible!" then there was the sound of coughing and teacups being dropped back onto the tray "What on earth is this!?"

Chloe laughed quietly "It's called replacing sugar with salt." then she walked away, her head high and her eyes sparkling.

Ashton laughed then got back to work.

~*~*~*Ashes and Gold*~*~*~

Duke Gerard sat the contaminated tea off to the side and shook his head "Where were we?"

"We were discussing the wedding." Lord Damien answered.

"Right." Gerard leaned back in his seat and smiled "I'd say everything is going according to plan. Wouldn't you?"

Damien nodded "There is absolutely nothing standing in the way of me marrying Angela and becoming king."

"Angelina."

"Whatever." Lord Damien leaned forward in his seat "All that matters is that I'm going to be king. And of course, you'll get your cut for your assistance, Uncle Gerard."

The Duke laughed "I had better. It wasn't easy getting you this close to the castle."

~*~*~*Ashes and Gold*~*~*~

It was nearly midnight as Ashton sat a box of repair tools into a closet.

"Well, Hon." Bernice said with a yawn "Unfortunately, tomorrow comes in a few hours and we still have a lot of work to do. Head on home and get some rest."

"Yes, Ma'am." he looked around "Did... Chloe already leave?"

"Mm-hm. About fifteen minutes ago. Some shops around here stay open for her so she can but groceries and she doesn't like making them wait." the woman chuckled "They don't mind though, the girl is a sweetheart. Well, have a good night, Hon."

"You too." he stepped outside and shivered slightly as a cold breeze blew across his face and ruffled his hair, then he headed for home.

When he stepped into the kitchen, Colleen was waiting "How was your day, Son?"

"Tiring, but good." he answered, giving her a quick kiss on the cheek "What about you?"

"Oh, I've been pretty bored since the family went on up to the castle. Believe it or not, I crocheted a blanket today! First one in twenty years! Are you hungry?"

"No. I think I'm just going to crash. I have to be back at the castle at five in the morning so..."

"Go on ahead." Colleen waved her hands at him "I'll see you tomorrow."

He walked into the pantry and fell back onto his rug and instantly sleep overtook him.

An hour later, he was suddenly jolted from his peaceful rest by what sounded like frantic knocking on the back door.

He rubbed the sleep out of his eyes and rolled to his knees, trying to clear the cobwebs from his head.

"Who on earth would that be at this hour?" Colleen muttered as she hurried past.

Ashton stumbled to his feet and followed.

The cook swung open the door. Ashton froze in shock, his tiredness instantly vanished at the sight of the girl standing outside. Her cheeks were tear stained, her face was pale and she was trembling from the cool air of the night.

"Chloe!" Ashton rushed forward and pulled her into the house, not thinking twice before pulling her into his arms "What are you doing here in the middle of the night!?"

"I need help." She whispered as another tear coursed down her cheek "It's Great-Aunt Naomi."

"What's happened?" Colleen asked, grabbing a shawl from a nearby coat rack and putting it on.

"When I got home... she was asleep." Chloe answered, her voice shaking "I didn't think anything of it til I kissed her goodnight. Her forehead was burning hot." a sob caught in her throat and she felt Ashton's arms tighten around her "I tried to wake her up but she wouldn't and... I don't know what to do. Please..." then she broke into tears and buried her head into Ashton's chest.

He looked at Colleen who had been bustling around the kitchen the entire time "Do you think you can help?"

"I certainly intend to try!" the woman exclaimed, hurrying from the room "Just let me grab some things and we'll head right over there!"

Chloe pressed herself into him as tears continued to stream down her face "Ashton... she's the only family I have...I don't know what I'll do if..."

"Hey." he said gently "We're going to try everything we can, okay?" he rested his head against hers and let out a deep breath "Everything's gonna be okay." he just hoped he was right.

8: Road to Recovery

~~Chloe pushed into the small house and hurried over to the one small bedroom "Great-Aunt Naomi?" she whispered.

The old woman moaned and shifted on her bed but didn't respond.

Colleen slipped into the room and laid a hand on her forehead "You're right, she's burning up." She looked back out the door "Ashton, cut some wood for the stove, please and get some water so I can make soup."

"Yes, Ma'am." he nodded right before he disappeared back out the door.

She then looked over at Chloe and sent her a small smile "Why don't you wait in the livingroom, Child?"

Chloe slightly nodded then slowly left room and went to lean against the far wall of the livingroom and slowly slid to the floor.

A few moments later Ashton came back in carrying an armload of logs and a bucket of water. She watched as he carfully stacked the wood inside the stove and lit it.

"That's a pretty dull axe." he commented as he straightened up, dusting off his hands on his pant legs.

"I know." she pulled her knees up to her chest and rested her chin on them.

He walked back over to the door and pushed it closed, but as soon as he turned his back it popped back open. He turned around with a bewildered look and pushed it back closed, only to have it pop right back.

Chloe chuckled slightly "You have to latch it to keep it closed."

"Oh." He did as instructed then nodded with satisfaction as the door stayed put, then he went and lowered hiself to the floor beside her "You okay?"

She sighed "I don't know, Ashton. She's been so sick for so long, what if she..." another tear slid down her face and she looked over at him "What if I lose her? She's the only family I have."

"Chloe, I promise that Colleen will do everything she can." he slid an arm around her shoulders and she laid her head over on him "Everything's going to be okay." he whispered "I promise."

~*~*~*Ashes and Gold*~*~*~

Colleen sighed as the sun's rays began to filter in through the windows, lighting the small room and instantly warming it.

She pushed herself up from the small wooden chair and walked out into the livingroom. She smiled as she spotted the other two.

Ashton was whittling with a stick and his pocketknife and Chloe was leaning against him, her head on his shoulder fast asleep.

Ashton looked up at the elderly cook as she walked over to the stove to stir the soup. When she looked back at him he sent her a questioning look and she smiled.

Chloe's eyes suddenly fluttered open then she immediately straightened up and scrambled to her feet "How is she?"

Colleen chuckled "She's fine, dear. Her fever broke and she's asking for you."

Chloe didn't waste a second running to her Great-Aunt "I'm so glad you're okay!" she gently hugged the older woman "I was so worried."

"Oh, child. I won't leave you til the time is right." Naomi smiled "Don't you worry."

Colleen smiled at Ashton who was getting to his feet and nodded towards the front door "Let's give them a little privacy."

He nodded and followed her out.

Once he stepped out into the yard he looked around. The house looked smaller in the light that it did in the dark.

There were places in the roof that needed to be repaired, the porch was sagging in the middle, the one step had a large hole in it.

The yard was pretty well kept, except for an old wooden fence that was falling down and a garden that looked like it hadn't been touched in nearly fifty years.

"This place could use a little help." he commented.

"I'd noticed." Colleen nodded "They definitely need a garden."

"May as well do what I can while I'm here." he looked around again before turning to the older lady "Thank you for coming. I know how much Naomi means to Chloe and..."

"Like I said, Naomi is an old friend. It was the least I could do." then she smiled and laid a hand on his shoulder "And yes, I partially did it for you because I know how much Chloe means to you. She's a very special girl, Ashton."

He chuckled slightly and stared off into the distance "I know." just then they heard steps running across the floor of the house. He turned around just as Chloe came flying out the door and threw her arms around him.

"She's okay." she breathed "You were right." then she pulled back and looked up at him with a smile before she turned to Colleen "Thank you so... so much." then she hugged the older lady.

"My pleasure, child. It was my absolute pleasure."

~*~*~*Ashes and Gold*~*~*~

Two days later, Ashton and Chloe were in the middle of the newly dug garden plot while Colleen and Naomi were sitting in chairs watching and soaking up the warm sunshine.

"I remember going to parties in this weather." Naomi sighed "Dancing the night away."

Chloe chuckled then whispered "She loves repeating these stories."

Ashton just smiled "I don't mind."

"Isn't that how you met you late husband?" Colleen asked

"Mm-hm. Was a day just like this. Oh, I believe I still have the record that was played for that event." Naomi pushed herself up from her seat and slowly went towards the house.

"I didn't know she was married." Ashton commented.

Chloe patted down a peice of ground and smiled sadly "He died on the eve of thier second anniversary."

"That's sad."

"I know." she glanced up as Naomi came back outside carrying a small record player "She's been through alot, but she just keeps going."

"Here we are." Naomi said as she lowered herself back into her chair and sat the player on the ground, the vinyl disk was already in place. With a few turns of the handle that was on the fron, the disk started spinning "It's in a good mood today." the shhe lowered the stylus and immediately the air was filled with music.

Colleen shifted back and forth with the music "Oh my, if I wasn't so old, I'd get up and dance." then she looked at the two younger ones "Why don't you two give it a go?"

Ashton shook his head "You know I can't dance, Colleen."

"Well, high time you learned." the woman responded "Chloe, you know anything?"

The girl laughed slightly "You can't live in a castle and be a Princess's personal maid without knowing how to dance, trust me."

"Well then teach the boy!"

Ashton shook his head "You don't have to."

Chloe just shrugged and stood up "I don't see the harm, and it's to humor the lady who saved my Great-Aunt's life. So if you don't mind..."

He bit back a grin as he got to his feet "I guess not."

"Do you at least know the pose?" Colleen asked, a mischevious smile on her face.

Ashton smiled, took Chloe's hand and pulled her forward to place it on his shoulder "That I do know."

Chloe wasn't sure why she felt heat rush into her cheeks as she placed her free hand in his.

"Okay now I'll count." Colleen said "And one two three four..."

It took Ashton a few minutes to catch on to what those numbers even meant, but it wasn't long til Colleen's voice faded and all that was left was the sound of the soft music drifting through the air... and Chloe.

Naomi watched as the young couple continued to dance around the garden. Her smile slowly faded. It was obvious that there was more that just a mutual attraction between them. Their sparkling eyes and soft smiles made it clear that over the past weeks that had fallen helplessly in love.

She shook her head slowly as she focused her attention on the girl who had been like a daughter to her all these years and she felt a small part of her wilt "It'll break her heart when she finds out the truth."

9: Two Days Til the Ball

~~The dance in the garden lasted for about fifteen minutes before Naomi stopped the record player.

Chloe smiled and took a step back out of Ashton's arms, but they continued to stare at each other for another long moment, seemingly oblivious to the two elderly women watching them.

Naomi cleared her throat to break the spell "Well, Ashton. I don't think you'll have any problems dancing at the ball."

Ashton chuckled and shook his head "I'm probably not going to..." all of the sudden his eyes widened and he and Chloe exchanged horrified looks.

"The ball!" they exclaimed in unison "The castle! Oh no!" without wasting another second, the two took off running towards the palace.

Naomi frowned "What was all that about?"

Colleen cringed "They've missed three days of work without anyone knowing where they were and the royal Ball's in two days."

"Oh..." Naomi said slowly "That's not good."

~*~*~*Ashes and Gold*~*~*~

"We are so dead!" Chloe said as they ran up the road "I never finished Angelina's dress!"

"I don't even want to know what Bernice is going to say." Ashton added, then he cringed "Or Duke Gerard."

"I can only image what they think." She added "We both disappeared." she saw Ashton's face pale right before it reddened.

"Yeah that is kind of suspicious."

"Tell me about it."

Twenty minutes later they burst through the front doors of the castle and almost ran smack dab into the head maid.

"Where on earth have you two been?" Bernice scowled "You had us all worried sick! Not to mention terribly understaffed!"

"We're so sorry." Chloe said quickly "Great-Aunt Naomi was really sick and Ashton and Colleen came to help me."

Bernice's face softened instantly "Alright, Child. I understand. But Princess Angelina's about to lose her mind over this. You'd better get up there."

"Yes, Ma'am." The girl nodded right before she took off up the stairs.

Bernice turned to Ashton "Well, I won't tell you stories that were flying around here due to you two disappearing. Can't say I wasn't hoping some of it was true." then she patted his shoulder "Duke Gerard told me to send you to his room the moment you showed up."

Ashton swallowed a cringe but couldn't quite contain the shudder "Alright. Thanks." then he also when up the stairs, but he had just reached the top when Gerard suddenly came around the corner.

The Duke's face turned purple and a blood vessel in his neck seemed like it was about to pop. His already dark eyes became black and murderous and in a moments notice he had Ashton by the collar of his shirt and was yanking him forward "WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN!?"

~*~*~*Ashes and Gold*~*~*~

Chloe flew through the doors of the Princess's room "I'm here and I am SO sorry!"

Angelina spun around from where she was going through her wardrobe "Chloe! Where on earth have you been!? Everyone thought that you and that Ashton boy had run away together!"

"No!" Chloe said quickly "Great-Aunt Naomi was deathly sick. I'm sorry."

Angeline let out a huff of air "Well I guess you're excused." she turned back to wardrobe "So... is she okay?"

Chloe smiled "Yes. Thankfully."

"Good." the princess turned back to face her "The ball's in two days! What am I going to do!?"

"You are going to do nothing." Chloe responded "I, however, am going to finish your dress."

"Do you have time?"

"I'll stay up all night if I have to." she smiled at the girl "I promise. Your dress will be completed in time and It'll be the most beautiful gown at the ball."

Angelina quickly hugged her companion "Thank you. Now I have to go check on the jewelers, the cobbler and my parents."

"Your parents?"

"Mm-hm. They've been losing thier minds over me not having a new dress." then a funny look came over her face "Actually, Dad's been losing his mind. Mom's been consoling him."

Chloe laughed "What a switch. Is the fabric still in the sewing room?"

"Mm-hm. Better hurry!"

~*~*~*Ashes and Gold*~*~*~

"What is the matter with you!?" Gerard bellowed, his grip still firm on boy's collar "After all I've done for you this is how you react!? By disappearing?!"

"I can explain." Ashton said quickly, wincing at the man's hold.

"You can explain alright!" Gerard shouted "This whole ball could have been ruined because of you!" by now several of the servants and maids in the castle had started to gather around, wondering what all the noise was about "You stupid Idiot!" his grip tightened and he shook the boy roughly "The next time you pull a stunt like this it'll be the last time you see day light!" he released one of his hands's from Ashton's shirt, and the next instant his balled fist struck the boy across the face, sending him stumbling backwards and ultimately falling down the long staircase. When he hit the hard tiled floor below, several of the servants when to move forward to help him, but Gerard's booming voice made them stop "STAY AWAY FROM HIM! ALL OF YOU!" A second later, the duke was suddenly shoved to the side as Chloe brushed past him and ran down the stairs. His eyebrows lowered in anger "Back off, girl!"

But she didn't listen. She ran straight to Ashton and dropped to her knees beside him "Are you okay?"

He had managed to get to his knees by then and he sent her a worried look "You'd better listen to him, Chloe."

"I said, back away!" Gerard shouted as he walked down the stairs.

Chloe's eyes sparked angrily as she stood back to her feet "No!" she said defiantly "You back off!"

"Chloe." Ashton whispered frantically "Just go."

But she ignored him "What right do you have to treat him that way?"

"He belongs to me!" the man barked as he continued towards her "Who do you think you are, talking to a Duke that way, Servant!"

"I don't care who you are! You have no right to treat him this way!" she snapped "You, Sir are a sorry excuse for a human being! And he's not your servant! He's your Step-son!"

Loud gasps went around the room and every stared at the three in shock.

"He's no son of mine!" Gerard shouted "Now get out of my way!"

She placed her hands on her hips and stared the man in the face "No."

"Do you have any idea what happens to those who defy me?" his voice was low and threatening, but at the current moment, Chloe was too angry to care.

"No I don't." she replied evenly "And I don't care. You have no rule over me."

"We'll see about that!" Gerard reared back his hand, but before it had a chance to swing forward and hit the girl, a firm grip surrounded his wrist and stopped him "ASHTON!" he bellowed "You had better release me this instant!"

The boy shook his head from where he was still kneeling on the floor "It's not me, Sir."

The Duke's face went from anger to confusion to nervous in a matter of seconds and he slowly looked over his shoulder into a pair of flashing green eyes that belonged to Princess Angelina.

Her nails dug into his wrist as she stared at him "Dad!"

The king and queen came pushing through the crowd just then, both wearing very displeased expressions.

"Duke Hamilton!" Queen Mary Margaret exclaimed as she placed her hands on her hips "What is the meaning of this? Threatening our servants? We have no control over how you treat your own, but hoe you treat our is very much our conccern!" she pointed to blond haired girl who was trying not to smile "And we have taken a certain liking to Miss Lane here, and if you so much as raise your voice at her again..."

"Mary." King Matthias said gently to silence her, then he turned to the duke "You are very lucky that you are Lord Damien's uncle, or I would ban you from the castle right now nad strip you of your title." the duke's face paled, but he said nothing "So keep that in mind before you go threatening the companion of our daughter again. Or you will be removed of all your rights." with that he turned and started to walk away "Come Mary Margaret. Angelina, you may release him now."

The Princess begrudingly let the man go and went after her parents.

Duke Gerard growled under his breath then pointed to Ashton "Get out of the castle this instant and don't you dare let me catch you here again!" with that, he turned and stormed off.

Chloe watched him til he was gone then turned and gave Ashton a hand to his feet "Are you okay?"

"Yeah." He answered, then he shook his head "Please just listen to him next time. He could have hurt you!"

"But he did hurt you!" Chloe argued "No one should be allowed to do that to anybody."

"I'm used to it." he said gently "I just don't want you getting hurt because of me. Okay?"

She reluctantly nodded "Okay."

Then he smiled and chuckled slightly "I've never seen anyone stand up to him before."

She shrugged "It helps to have friends in high places."

His smiled widened "I was talking about you." then he reached out and gently tipped her chin up "I'll see you around, Chloe." then he turned and limped out of the castle.

~*~*~*Ashes and Gold*~*~*~

-The Night of The Ball-

"You did it!" Angelina squealed as she spun around in a circle, causing her lavender dress to billow around her "How did you do it?"

Chloe chuckled "I stayed up all night, just like I promised."

"You are amazing, Chloe!" the princess did three more turns, taking in the layers of sparkling tulle and glittering diamonds that created swirling patterns across the hems and even on the puffed sleeves.

She stopped spinning and turned to face the other girl "Chloe... come to the ball."

Chloe shook her head "Angelina, you know I can't. I don't own a proper dress." she held up her tattered skirt "This is the only outfit I own."

Angelina ran over to her wardrobe and flung open the doors "Well, Chloe. You made half these dresses. Choose one."

"What!?"

"Please. It's the least I can do." she grabbed the blond's hand and smiled "Come to the ball. For me. Please?"

Chloe looked at the dozens and dozens of dresses til a smile began to spread across her. She raised an eyebrow and looked over at the Princess "I think I recall making one that matched my shoes."

10: The Royal Engagement Ball

Ashton pushed the door closed behind his stepbrothers as they headed out. After the little incident at the castle. Duke Gerard had sent his sons back home to keep an eye on 'the ungreatful' Ashton. And also to follow him around town and make sure he did his work for everyone. Since he hadn't been working for the town for quite a few weeks, there was a whole load of stuff to do.

But now, the boys, and everyone else in the town was heading for the castle to attend the royal engagement ball of Princess Angelina and Lord Damien.

"I just love watching all the carriages drive by." Colleen commented "All shiny and glowing with the lanters lit. Oh, it's like a fairytale."

Ashton chuckled and leaned against the window frame beside her, his gaze towards the castle "Must be fun."

Colleen slowly looked over at the boy, a broad smile crossing her face "Come with me, Ashton."

"What?"

"Come on!"

~*~*~*Ashes and Gold*~*~*~

"Angelina, are you sure about this?" Chloe asked slowly, looking down at the long sparkling ball gown "I've never done anything like this before."

"Little too late to turn back now, Chloe." Angelina responded "Besides, it's about time I saw you in something other than those rags." she then drug the other girl over to her vanity table and pushed her down into the chair "Now for your hair."

"Ange..."

"No arguing! This is my big night and you're not going to ruin it!"

"Well, I could just not go."

"You are going, I don't care how much you argue."

Chloe sighed as the princess pulled her hair out of it's usual ponytale and let it drop down around her shoulders.

~*~*~*Ashes and Gold*~*~*~

"Alright," Colleen said as she opened a closet in one of the spare rooms and pulled out a large bag "I believe it's right here."

Ashton shook his head "Colleen, what are you doing?"

"I am doing nothing, but you are going to the ball."

"What!? No I'm not. I can't!"

"Stop arguing." the older lady shook her head as she undid a long zipper on the bag "Let's see here... Ah, yes." then she flipped back the sides to reveal a uniform that had a pale blue jacket that had six buttons going down the front, three on one side of the torso and three on the other, a gold twisted rope connected them, and a white pair of britches and black polished boots.

"Where did that come from?" He asked slowly.

"It was your father's, Ashton." she responded "Now go put it on."

He took a step back and held up his hands "No no no. I cna't."

"Why not?"

"I... why should I go to the ball? I... don't even really want to."

"It's not like you don't know anyone there. You've worked for them all."

"I know. And I..."

"Chloe might be there."

He went quiet for a moment before he shook his head "I doubt it. She wouldn't be able to afford a gown."

"She's the princess's companion, Honey. I'm sure that the princess could spare a gown."

Ashton continued to stare at the older lady til he let out a long breath of air "Fine. But I'm only doing this for you."

"Mm-hm. Sure." the older lady mumbled as he left the room.

~*~*~*Ashes and Gold*~*~*~

"Alright, there." Angelina said with a smile "Finished." then she turned Chloe towards the mirror "Whhat do you think?"

Chloe's eyes widened "Whoa. That... doesn't even look like me." The girl she was staring at in the mirror resembled more of a princess than a common maid. The sparkling pink gown had darker pink, gold and white gems creating a design on the bodice, and several, several layers of tulle created the ankle length sparkling skirt and also the bell sleeves that flowed to her elbows. Her hair was now hanging is shining gold waves down to her waist, the sides braided back til they connected at the back of her head. The braids had been decorated with little diamond studs and pink pearls.

"Perfect or what?" Angelina said proudly.

Chloe glanced at her before she quickly pulled a curl from the top of her head and let it hang down the side of her face "Perfect." then she laughed slightly "I don't know what to say."

"Well, it's almost time to head down." the princess turned back to her wardrobe "Now for shoes."

"Nuh-huh." Chloe shook her head "I'm wearing these." she held up her feet to show the hightop sneakers and the princess gasped.

"You can't be serious!"

"I am. I'd kill myself in high heels, Angelina. And besides, these shoes are really special to me."

Angelina begrudgingly sighed "Fine. No one will see them under the dress anyways... I hope."

Chloe just laughed and stood up "Thank you." then she looked over in a full length mirror at her reflection and thought to herself "I wonder what Ashton would think if he saw me like this."

"His mouth would drop."

Chloe spun around and stared at the other girl "Did I say that out loud!?"

"Mm-hm." Angelina nodded "You did."

Chloe knew her face was flaming as she smoothed out her skirt "Well... I'm ready."

~*~*~*Ashes and Gold*~*~*~

Ashton couldn't believe he was letting Colleen do this! For the past fifteen minutes, she'd been slicking back his hair with a comb, her tongue stuck between her teeth like she was consentrating on something challenging.

After a few more minutes she stepped back and looked at him then shook her head and quickly ran her hand through his hair, ruffling it so that it fell back exactly as it had been before "Perfect! Am I a miracle worker or what!" then she grinned "And that jacket really makes your eyes pop!"

Ashton shook his head "Colleen, I'm still not sure about this. If Gerard recognizes me I'll be dead!"

"I already thought of that." she responded as she walked over to a dresser and opened it, then she produced a black mask.

"It's not a masquerade."

"So what?" she handed him the article "Nothing attracts a girl's attention more that a handsome man in a mask."

"Nothing attracts anyones attention more than a person in a mask." he shook his head "I don't know if I can do this."

"Oh come on. You never do anything for yourself. Just take the mask and go have some fun. Whether it's short lived or not, just go enjoy yourself."

He sighed and placed the mask over his face "What do you think?"

"I think I'm in love. Now get out of here before I try to force you into a cape."

He laughed and quickly kissed her cheek "Thank you." then he turned and ran from the house.

Colleen sighed and smiled "Well... now I can do some more knitting."

~*~*~*Ashes and Gold*~*~*~

When he stepped into the ballroom, he was surprised by how few people actually looked at him. No one really seemed to notice the mask... or that he was probably wearing the least elaborate outfit, but he didn't really mind that.

The whole ball room was filled with gowns off all designs, shapes, sizes and colors... the hairstyles were just the same. Some tall as a town and others hung low.

Just then a man standing at the top of a tall staircase blew into his trumpet, getting everyone's attention "May I present, thier Royal Majesties, King Matthias and Queen Mary Margaret!"

The crowd cheered as their beloved rulers walked down the stairs. The Queen wearing a golden and cream dress that was adorned in all sorts of jewels, the hoop skirt took up nearly half of the large staircase, it barely let the king get close enough to escort her down. Her hair was fixed in a regal bun and her ceremonial crown was on her head.

The king's outfit was also gold and adorned in jewels and he wore his large ceremonial crown also.

When they reached the bottom of the stairs, they walked over to their thrones, the queen sat, Ashton wasn't quite sure how, and the king remained standing.

"All my people!" King Matthias called "We are here to celebrate the engagment and soon to be marriage of our daughter, Princess Angelina Roseanne!"

More cheers went up, but Ashton noticed that the queen's smile faltered slightly.

The trumpet sounded again and the marshal shouted "Introducing her Royal Highness, Princess Angelina!"

Angelina glanced back at Chloe before the doors swung open "Say ten steps behind me."

Chloe rolled her eyes slightly "Of course."

Then the doors opened and the princess walked out of greet her people.

Her long lavender dress made her red hair seem to glow. Her haid was in a lose braid, draped over her shoulder and decorated with tiny lavender roses, her tiara was in its place atop her head. She moved down the stairs with a practiced grace.

But Ashton only watched her for a short time, because a second later, someone else grabbed his attention.

"And" the announcer conntinnued "Miss Chloe Lane!"

He watched as she walked down the stairs behind the princess, a smile pulled at the corners of his mouth as he spotted the Converse sneakers beneath the skirt, and he slowly started to push his way through the crowd.

"Start the music!" the king commanded, then he offered a hand to his wife "Shall we, my dear?"

"But of course." the queen took his hand and was taked out onto the dance floor.

It took only a matter of seconds for the floor to be covered in couples waltzing.

Lord Damien quickly swept Angelina away into a dance, leaving Chloe standing there by herself... until she was suddenly surrounded by a dozen young men, a few not so young, asking her to dance.

"Uh... no thank you." she said nervously.

"Please, do me the honor!" One pressed "I promise I'm a terrific dancer!"

"As am I." Another spoke up, pressing in closer "Shall we?"

"I'm sorry." a familiar voice said just to her right "But I'm afraid she'll be dancing with me."

She looked over to see a masked figure with powder blue eyes. He took her hand and easliy pulled her from the group of men and out onto the dance floor.

He placed her hand on his shoulder, the picked up her other hand and quickly fell into the waltz.

Chloe contiued to stare at him. She could have sworn it was Ashton. But he'd said he wouldn't come, but if he had... she shook her head slightly and tore her gaze away from his eyes.

"Not as easy dancing on a tiled floor as it is a half made garden patch, huh?"

She looked back at him and her eyes widened "So it is you." she whispered.

He chuckled "Hey."

"What's with the mask?"

"My stepfather is over there and I'm not supposed to be here."

"Then why did you come?"

"Colleen twisted my arm and threatened me with a cape."

She laughed quietly and immediately relaxed "Okay."

"I thought you said you weren't coming." He commented a moment later.

"Well, I wasn't. But Angelina talked me into it." She glanced down at the dress and shook her head "I don't really feel like myself. And I definitely don't look like myself."

Ashton cocked his head to the side, a look of utter confusion crossing his face "What do you mean? You look exactly like you always have."

"I... I mean... I look like a princess. Not a servant."

He looked even more confused and he shook his head "Chloe. You've always looked like a princess."

Her breath caught in her throat and she could feel heat creeping into her cheeks. She quiclky ducked her head "Um... thanks."

~*~*~*Ashes and Gold*~*~*~

Lord Damien went over to stand by Duke Gerard while Angelina went to have a word with her parents.

"Everything's falling into place." Damien commented "Pretty soon I'll marry Angelina."

Duke Gerard nodded his head "Yes. Then just a small 'accident' will remove the king and queen leaving you to replace them."

Damien chuckled darkly "Then my beutiful princess dies of a broken heart leaving the whole kingdom to me."

Duke Gerard looked over to where the king, queen and princess were talking "Only just a few more weeks. There's nothing that can stand in the way. Nothing."