Everyone decided to spend the night at the Merryweather household because it was closer, and darkness was rapidly falling. On the way back, Maria talk to Couer de Noir. In front of them was Benjamin and Loveday, and Digweed led the way with Miss Heliotrope. Robin trailed along behind everyone, unsure of who to talk to.

Luckily, he was walking behind Maria because the sheer exhaustion of the day hit her body like a rock wall, and she collapsed. Robin deftly caught the slim girl and picked her up bridal style. When Benjamin saw the pleading look in Robin's eyes, he allowed the boy to carry his niece. They walked in silence until the group arrived at the house.

"If you follow me, I will take you to Maria's room," Robin was about to answer when Maria let out a contented sigh as she snuggled deeper into his arms. Robin smiled down at her until he became aware of everyone watching him.

He blushed and said,"Umm... yes, sir." They proceeded to Maria's room. Robin had to duck to enter the door. He placed the girl on her bed; then, he quickly exited the room and allowed Benjamin to show him the room where he would be sleeping.

The rest of the night was uneventful for everyone. When Maria woke up, she rushed down to breakfast to see Robin. She realized that she must've woken up late because Miss Heliotrope and her uncle were already almost done with their breakfast.

"Where did the de Noirs go?" Maria asked, unable to hide the eagerness in her voice.

"They left this morning when only Marmaduke was awake. They explained that they should get back to the castle before someone missed them," Benjamin said, eyeing Maria strangely. She mumbled a reply and sat down to eat.

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Hey, this is a lame chapter. Please don't hate it. I'll update again soon. Please vote and comment. Bye for now.