The ring that wasn’t gone.

My name is Miriam Darlington; remember that name, when it is plastered over the newspapers publicising my part in solving some grand mystery.

I am not entirely unqualified- my cousin Arthur used to be a detective, and does some consulting work for us when needed. However, he stopped doing full-time detective work a couple years ago. I suppose there is no better time to pause and expound on my wider familial circumstances, given it is expanding with my cousin’s imminent wedding.

I had first met my cousin (the illustrious detective) on an unhappy occasion, a funeral. Although, I cannot remember that one well. It was many years until I had seen him next, which was once again, at a funeral. Funerals have a strange way of bringing everyone together, but amidst the sorrow that soaked the occasion, I felt a thrill of excitement at the opportunity that presented itself-since I had been young, my only dream was to become a detective, and so a fresh start in London with him seemed like the jumpstart I needed to achieve that dream. 

Initially, I lived in the country with my father, but when he died, I was sent to live with Arthur, as I didn’t have any other family. Arthur took over from an incredibly famous detective, so I was most excited to be sent to live with him however much to my disappointment unlike his predecessor, he much preferred to keep the details of his work far away from the prying hands of the papers. So, he could enjoy a quieter life. I suppose in recent years, the only notable connection with him,  and the papers was his engagement announcement, but we will get to that soon enough.

Now you might wonder how a 16-year-old became a detective in a matter of months... Well, I luckily was given an opportunity from a former associate; That, however, was multiple years ago, and I am many years wiser now. Nevertheless, all that is important is that such a set of circumstances is how I met my friend and partner in crime-solving, Alex. He was training to work as a police officer but we ended up solving a case, and as a result, Arthur retired so we could take over his independent detective agency instead.

If you are one of many thinking it is all good we solved one case, but what exactly have you done since? Grand question! The answer is unfortunately not much, since our first case (the details of that are a matter for another time, and it is not wholly my story to tell.)

So far, the only highlight of our career is that we worked out who was feeding a local cat! Alas reader, not every case is so exciting. Ironically, when I had only just moved here desperate to become a detective, I tried to barter with Arthur to let me investigate even something as trivial as cats (he said no but came round eventually.) It is still rather amusing that we got such a case after becoming fabulous detectives. Aside from that, we have been spreading the word that we are very much open for business, which has been met with the obvious amount of scepticism from the people of London, but do not allow yourself to be put off by our age nor the fact I am a woman. Queen Victoria is a woman, and she is perfectly capable of governing the country. Despite any dubiety, we will become the best detectives in all of England- just you wait. Alex, ever the cynic, says we should just try to be the best in the local area of London. I firmly disagree, because we will be the best in England.

But I digress, as today was a joyous day, for my cousin finally tied the knot. Arthur met his wife Charlotte whilst working alongside her father, who was in his lifetime a politician, but at the time he had some business that needed resolved. Charlotte proved to be very important in that case and over the years since they first met that fateful day their romance has blossomed until finally after many years of stalling, he proposed. However, in typical fashion for a former detective, the wedding was not without its own mystery.

The morning started as it normally does in the house, converging for breakfast except this morning Arthur had left early to leave Charlotte in peace before the big day. Rest assured for those who would rush to the society pages, despite the fact that she has lived with us for a while, they do indeed have separate rooms on opposite ends of the house. Of course, that may change because they're of marriage.

Fortunately, we were joined by the last of Charlotte’s family her aunt, one Mrs Irene Norton, a former opera singer, and her younger cousin Neville. 

“How is my niece, have you seen her yet?” Mrs Norton asked sipping her tea.

“I think she’s still asleep, but she’ll be up soon enough for food.” I replied.

“You didn’t keep her up late with your rambling, did you?” Mrs Norton asked as Neville set about destroying the shell of his egg. “I did not keep her up long, but we were having such a fun time it was hard not to.” I said with a small smile, however, further conversation was interrupted as the door burst open.

“The ring is missing from her room!” Emma shouted with a voice full of panic.

“Well detective, looks like you have a case, and just about half an hour to solve it. I’d help, but this little rascal has decided that his clothes are a canvas for fine art made from whatever breakfast he’s devoured.” Mrs Norton laughed, looking at the state of her son’s shirt. “Normally, I’d love to investigate a case but why today of all days? Why not last Tuesday for example? That was quite boring, Alex and I ended up lounging round the office all day plodding through boring paperwork.”

I sighed standing up from the table, wondering how everything was faring with the boys. 

“Inspector! The ring is missing! Do you have it? You really should know where it is, you are the best man.” Alex shouted checking the ring box.

“You’re right. I should have it, but I don’t, as Arthur is yet to give it to me. However, stay calm lad. Let’s not panic Arthur on his special day, we’ll search for the ring together. After all, I am an inspector and you’re a detective, we shall just do our job.” George replied calmly and sat down waiting for orders on what to do as best man.

“Not a very good one.” Alex muttered

“Comes with time... do you know if he went out anywhere last night? Perhaps he was carrying it then.” George asked.

“No, from my conversation with him before I left work yesterday, he stayed home with Miriam and Charlotte. They just wanted a quiet evening.” Alex replied quietly.

“So that narrows it down, the ring is in the church. I doubt it has gone far.” George smiled standing up.

“George? Alex? Is everything all right? I heard raised voices.” Arthur said as he strode down the aisle towards the two of them.

“Yes, nothing's wrong.” Alex spluttered, trying not to reveal the reason of the discourse “Still yet to improve at lying Mr Moran? I would rather you both be honest; pray tell it is not Charlotte. Is she all right? If she no longer wishes to marry now, we can postpone it. I have no issue with that, whenever she is ready.” Arthur said with a raised eyebrow. Alex blushed a bright red colour both at being called by his surname, and by being caught out.

“No, she’s fine, it’s just Mr Moran cannot seem to find the ring.” George answered.

“No need for concern, I have it right here.” Arthur stated, fishing it out of his breast pocket.

“You seem ever so slightly apprehensive sir. Is there any issue?” Alex said tapping his foot.

“Arthur, we’d rather you be honest.” George said with a gentle smile across his face.

“I just wonder if I am doing the right thing by marrying her, if I am merely doing this because I wish to compensate for the fact she hasn’t got much family by way of give her a happy life with me? I have grown doubtful that we do indeed love each other as those engaged should. I’ve done everything how a gentleman should. I met with her uncle to ask for her hand; I wanted to prove that I am a far cry from those who have wished to marry her in the past. I’m trying my hardest to be the man she needs, but I worry it will not be enough. I just want her to be happy, and so if a wedding today is not what she wishes, then so be it.” Arthur explained, taking a seat on one of the pews.

“I think the fact you’re worried about such things prove that marrying her is the right decision, considering your first impression when you overheard us talking was her wellbeing shows beyond a doubt that you would care for her as a husband care for a wife.” Alex reassured.

“You stopped working so much so the two of you could be together in the first place. That my friend is more devotion than most women wish for on their wedding day, Miss Carlisle is truly lucky to have you there to support her.” George added.

“Well, I think I know how we will proceed.” Arthur smiled standing up “Alex, tell the priest and registrar to come to my residence; I know that my fiancé would dislike such a large ceremony, and given the small guest list, they will all be at the house anyway. She would be more comfortable if we could find a way to do the ceremony at home.” Arthur ordered, placing the ring back in his pocket.

Meanwhile back at the house, Emma and I were scouring the house for Charlotte’s ring.

“What about Neville? He is small - might have stolen it like a little magpie from her room.” I stated trying to think of suspects.

“Mrs Norton would have returned the ring; the kid isn’t the most discreet, nor has he been near her room.” Emma said with a laugh, as if she found the prospect of my idea amusing, when I was being most serious.

“You’ve shot down my theory, so has she snuck out anywhere?” I asked, as perhaps Charlotte had lost the ring on a scenic solitary nocturnal wander.

“No, she’s been different lately, less forward in her actions.” Emma replied, with a sudden hint of melancholy in her voice.

“But, how can you be sure she hasn’t snuck out somewhere?” I inquired. “Because if you had paid attention, as a detective should, you’d know she hasn’t left the house in days.” Emma retorted.

“Right, yes, I see your point.” I muttered, having been so caught up in the familiar excitement of a case, I had forgotten to look at the facts. “So, it’s in the house then, and perhaps hasn’t even left her room.” Emma remarked. “What about you? How do you feel about the wedding? Do you have the ring? After all, you have access to her room in the mornings to lay her clothes out, and whatever else you’re paid to do.” I asked, watching Emma suddenly tense up.

“I’m glad for Miss Carlisle, I truly am. I would never think to sabotage her chance at happiness.” Emma said hesitantly.

“Really? The sudden formality tells me otherwise. Be honest.” I replied. Since the day I had met Emma, she had always called Charlotte by her first name. Never by her family name. So, this was a change.

“Well of course I hold a certain scepticism given her record of engagements and knowing her personally, I just hope for her sake this one is everything she hoped.” Emma sighed as we looked round the bride-to-be room

“Nothing seems out of the ordinary, I cannot believe she is not dressed yet though, one would think she would have been dressed already given it’s not long until we must leave.” I remarked spotting her wedding dress still hanging there.

“She clearly has her doubts then, I suppose it’s our duty to try and clear her of them.” Emma said suddenly perking up as she heard music carry down the hallway. “Well, at least she’s in the right mood to play music, that’s a good sign.” I smiled as we left her room and headed to the library.

Charlotte stopped playing as we entered. “Charlotte, are you alright? Everyone is worried, you're not dressed and Emma lost the ring.” I asked.

“Funeral Marches on a wedding day, some things never change.” Emma laughed.

“Wait! I didn't lose her ring! Miss Darlington, you little liar.” She chided.

“You’re right, it’s here. I’ve got it, you two worry too much. Although, I do wonder why you were in my room.” Charlotte said quietly.

“We thought you might want help dressing, dresses are such fiddly things.” Emma smiled.

“Once more, you are correct, but I thought I’d come play first and have a think about everything then I’d ring for you. Really Miriam, how come Emma is doing a better job than you?” Charlotte joked

“Well, what’s on your mind, neither of us have been married before, but we are here to help you. I hope it’s not about the others, is it?” I asked, hoping to provide some relief for her.

“Yes, it is about them, I can’t help but think about what could have been different. Despite the fact I’ve only ever been engaged once, I have had suitors, nonetheless. My first engagement was to a man more enamoured with my father's money than me- I raised my objections, and my father quickly found reason to end the engagement. I had fallen ill by then, so marriage was far from my mind, but nonetheless, suitors found their way to me.

First, a man so blinded by his obsession of the idea of me, he failed to recognize reality. And just when I thought I’d be free there was another, he seemed like a dashing Prince Charming, however, appearances are often the most deceiving. Quickly it became apparent he didn’t love me either. After him I thought I’d never love again, nor would I be capable of such an act, that after so many suitors and broken relations that no man would want me.” Charlotte paused to take a deep breath.

“But then came Arthur, and he’s been so kind to me; he’s allowed time to pass whilst we got to know each other. I’m forever grateful to him for that. I just can’t help but wonder what my father would have thought, what Theo would have thought. I wonder if I’m making the right choice. Whether it only seems a good idea and if perhaps long-term, I’ll only end up regretting it. It is no fault of Arthur’s, as I do truly love him, and I know how much he cares for me.

I think too much, and that is my problem.” She added, her sentence trailing off.

Emma countered, “Keep your father out of it, he had no common sense trying to marry you off for the sake of money, and whatever other motives he had. I can’t comment on Theo, as by all means he ought to have been here, but since you love Arthur what despair can come of such a feeling?

“Yes, things went bad before, but the past doesn’t dictate what comes next. Arthur is a very different man from the ones you’ve consigned to mere memories. So, I cannot see any reason why your brother would be unhappy at such a match.” I stated with a smile. I could sense the pain of losing her brother only a short while before her disastrous set of suitors still weighed heavy on her mind.

“Mama Charlotte.” A small voice broke through the silence. “Just Charlotte, remember? She’s your cousin.” A man’s voice chided, Charlotte blushed upon seeing her young cousin walk in clutching hold of his father's hand. “My apologies his vocabulary is ever expanding but he still hasn’t grasped the concept of his cousin.” “Uncle Godfrey, you made it, I thought you’d be working.” Charlotte blushed upon seeing her young cousin walk in clutching hold of his father's hand. “I wouldn’t miss such a joyous day for you. How are you feeling?” He inquired

"Apprehensive is perhaps the best word, but all will be well.” Charlotte replied as Neville climbed on her lap. “Aren’t you just the most handsome little chap.” She smiled patting him on the head as he beamed up at her

“Your aunt was quite apprehensive as well; unlike your mother and father we had a small ceremony with only three guests I believe. And look at us now, everything has turned out fine, it is a normal thing to be nervous about what the change will bring, but from my perspective I see nothing but happiness for you in the future.” Godfrey reassured her.

"Shouldn't we go get you dressed?” Emma inquired, picking Neville up off her lap. “Oh right! I can’t get married like this, Miriam you can help occupy Neville seeing as you look dressed for the occasion already.” Charlotte smiled, standing up to get changed.

I gave her a smile and took a seat next to Neville on the floor, who was occupied with lifting the corner of the rug to see what was underneath- much to his disappointment there was nothing. Not even the smallest hint of a surprise hidden under it.

“Godfrey dear, Mr Hawthorne has arrived back from the church.” Irene announced just as Charlotte and Emma left down the corridor to get her ready. “Wait, why is Arthur back so suddenly, is everything alright?” I asked as Alex appeared behind Mrs Norton.

“Right, so change of plan, the wedding is happening here.” Alex responded. “You look flustered, was everything quite alright at the church? You didn’t get a case, did you? Oh, tell me what’s the exciting news! Who’s dead? Goodness, I hope not Arthur, please say it isn’t so.” I questioned.

“Calm down Miriam, nothing quite as exciting. There had just been a little panic, we believed had lost the ring.”  Alex replied leaning on the doorframe.

“Strange. We had a similar occurrence here, but it was just a boring case of uncertainty.” I summarised.

Arthur responded with a note of concern in his voice “Charlotte’s having doubts?” “It’s nothing you’ve done, she’s just nervous about such a change she had not expected the opportunity to marry.” Irene explained.

“Well, if she doesn’t want to go ahead, I’ll head down and tell the priest and registrar that their services are no longer required.” Arthur stated.

“Perhaps just wait to ask her yourself?” I suggested as we all trailed down to the main hall. 

“Is the bride actually coming?” The priest asked, after some minutes with no sign of the bride.

“She will be down soon, just nerves.” Godfrey replied as I spotted Charlotte descend the grand staircase in a beautiful white dress with Emma carrying the train behind her. “It’s stupidly long, isn’t it?” She muttered as she got to the bottom.

"You look lovely my dear.” Irene smiled

“Before we begin the ceremony, may I say something?” Arthur asked, everyone nodded as he approached his fiancée. “Charlotte my love, please don’t worry about what is expected of a wife. I just want you to be yourself because I love you for who you are, not for what others expect of you. If you don’t wish for children, that is fine with me. You can keep your own room, we needn't share; your happiness is what I want first and foremost. If you will still be my wife. If not, I will wait for long as you need, and if the day never arrives then that is perfectly alright. No matter what, I will remain by your side and continue to be the steadfast support you need.” Arthur said clutching her hands.

“Arthur, you're such a generous man. I can’t help but be nervous about the future, still for certain I want to be by your side.” Charlotte smiled at him as he wiped away her tears.

And so, the vows were exchanged, and they were married. 

“I have a few words.” I announced as we all sat around the library. “Arthur, you may not be a detective anymore, but you certainly cracked the case of true love. I wish the two of you the greatest happiness.” I declared.

“I take it you're moving out then?” Arthur laughed.

“No, I still very much intend to live here, besides, my office is here so you can’t get rid of me.” I responded.

“Our office.” Alex added.

“Correction, you can’t get rid of us.” I concluded. “Well, I can’t get rid of you even if there had been times I’ve wished to, you are still my responsibility for another three years. I will help you with detective work as little, or as much, as you want. But today marks a turning point, for I must also consider my beautiful wife Charlotte.” Arthur replied with a smile.

“I never thought there would come a day when I would marry someone, so I must in some way thank my father for his instrumental role in such a bizarre turn of events that led me to meeting you, Arthur, my knight in shining armour. I hope we can continue to enjoy every minute of this new adventure together, no matter what happens.” Charlotte said with a look of contemplation.

“Does this not make you wonder what your future holds too?” Alex asked as I took a seat next to him. “Yes, I hope one day I will marry a lovely man as well, but I’ll settle for solving some actual cases first.” I replied quietly.

“Speaking of cases, you looked so jealous when you thought I had a case.” Alex smirked. “Well perhaps slightly, but that’s beside the point. When we get a case, we will solve it together or not at all.” I retorted.

“We just need a case, but that can wait for now. I am sure we will get a proper one soon enough.” Alex suggested.

“That's the spirit! I am sure tomorrow people will be knocking on the door with their problems. As for right now Mr Moran, care for a dance?” I asked as Charlotte and Arthur began playing the piano together.

“Of course, Miss Darlington.” Alex responded. 

“Godfrey apologises for having to leave so early, but we are all so happy for you, and I know your mother, father and brother would be equally as happy. Do come visit us when you have the time.” Irene smiled going over to the newlyweds after having danced with her son.

“We will.” Charlotte replied as she paused playing.

“Miss Miriam, why not play something so these two can get their first dance together?” Irene asked turning around to glance at Alex and I.

“Of course, I’d love to.” I answered quickly making my way towards the piano as Arthur and Charlotte had their first dance, all traces of uncertainty gone, as their briefly missing rings glistened in the candlelight.