The Penniless Bride by EpicFaerieTale

Depression would bring on the worst in people, even weaken them. Michael even proved how badly depression and anger together would affect a man. His parents, well, he never even remembered them. His own father walked out at the tender age of three, never to be seen or heard from again. Michael was abandoned, with only a mother to be around with. He never learned how to be a true man, a chivalrous man.

Michael really was a jerk at first, hell, he was rebellious when they met. He didn't really know how to deal with his feelings much. He only disliked her for the very fact that she was in better standards than him. Had two parents instead of one like him. Still, once he picked up her books and looked at her up close, that's the first time his heart ever beat so fast.

Michael really didn't consider much. He always thought women liked strong and intrusive men. Or at least the kind that knew how to take charge. Still, that was probably his downfall. He realized that as he went over things in his head as he stood outside. He wouldn't blame Miriam for probably resenting him, even a little. He really did act like a bastard.

Yes, but it was her downfall. Michael sighed, sitting by the stoop near the front entrance of the mansion. "When will she come out here?" he mumbled to himself, rubbing his chin despite the thick beard. Hell, cause of all the drinking and regret, guilt included, he could see gray hairs coming in. "Damn I messed up bad..." he added, holding his face with his hands and taking deep breaths.

Well, Michael is willing to put in the work to make up for things he had done. Especially to his wife and kids. He had been so terrible and blind that he hadn't realized he was pushing away those he loved. It was ridiculous, he was ashamed. Even as he waited for Miriam, he just had a feeling she might just go off on him any second if he pushed the wrong buttons.

Michael stood up quickly, but shifted his glance to the ground. It was almost like he was acting shy, but obviously it was out of guilt that he acted so sketchy. "Hello, Miriam....I'm sorry if I've broken the peace within this house. It's grand, really, I can't complain that Mary certainly met a good man." he mumbled, coughing a bit.

"You've accepted my faults for way too long. Let me hear your side of the story...please." Michael asked, almost pleading. He knew that she must've had some thoughts she kept to herself. Something. Anything. He hugged her tightly, kissing her face and lips.

Michael sighed, shaking his head. Even despite his actions in the past, she forgave him. What more could he want?! He smiled weakly, almost tearing up. He couldn't help it. He was lucky. But would his daughter be as forgiving? What about his son? God, he could've torn the family apart! "I love you, I really do, Miriam." he mumbled, kissing her once more.

Michael sighed, loving the feel of her lips against his again. He actually felt and enjoyed himself for once. "I swear I'll make up for my wrong doings..." he promised, hugging her tightly. He sighed as he heard thunder, surprised. "It's going to rain, we should go back inside." he said, holding her hand and kissing it softly as he smiled.

Michael sighed as he walked back inside the mansion. He could still feel the tension but it was lighter. He felt light, too. He didn't think he had the weight of a million boulders on his head and back. "So, did you have to cancel many gatherings?" he asked, feeling a bit bad. But at least this gave them some time together. Julian had been at the stairs, watching a bit. He smiled as he saw the two reconcile.

Michael sighed, shaking his head. "This is a lifestyle I would love to give you. Money, comfort, and at least better food than what we used to eat. I'm sure you can't help but like this sort of luxury." he mumbled, feeling worse for himself. What kind of man was he?

He knew he had to stop feeling sorry for himself and actually prove something. But, he was a pathetic man.... "I'm sorry..will you come home with me? So we can work things out?" Michael asked hesitantly. He had at least gathered the courage to ask her, so, he knew he must have the courage to fix his mistakes.