Pitch

It's Here!

Book Two in The Huntington Saga Series Novels~

Pirate Bride!

Miss Susannah Blakemore is kidnapped and sold into white slavery as payback to the Huntingtons. Will her pirate hero save her?

“The Huntingtons will pay. Oh, they will pay.” Plots and unholy alliances are put into action carrying out long-awaited retribution.

Only … one was not thought of. One was not even considered. How would anyone have guessed that a descendant of a pirate would take up his old family tradition in a mad quest to regain his bitterly lost love? The Marquess of Latham will not abide by this act of violence arranged for his precious love, but will surely save her -- will he not? And will he make her the next pirate bride?

Next? There must be a first to have a 'next'. But there was another ... centuries ago ... that still walks the halls of Stonecrest Castle.

Monday, August 29, 2011

Monday, August 29, 2011 -- The Governess -- A Twice Weekly Blog

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 13 continued:  

Lord Huntington stepped over to his study window looking out at nothing.  How could she have such strong feelings about his children?  He could sense her anger and impatience with him, her defensiveness over Jonathon.  It was quite shocking, really.  He was touched.  Thinking about how much fun he would have had on such a contraption as a boy, he would, indeed, have loved such an apparatus as a play ship built just for him.  It was a splendid idea, really!  But where would he put it?  
            Shaking his head, he turned around to face her again.  “I cannot see any reason why I should not grant this request, strange as it is, Lady Blakemore.”  Her smile was radiant!  “I will contract a builder and have him here this week to discuss your plans.” 
            “Oh, thank you, my lord!  Thank you so much!” 
            Smiling at her, he said, “You are very welcome.” 
            Before he could dismiss her, and without another breath, Carly began again, “My lord, I have been through the Long Gallery several times looking at the different portraits there.  I have noticed that there are portraits of very young children.” 
            “Yes…” Creighton was beginning to worry again. 
            “I was wondering.” 
            “Yes…” 
“Do Elspeth and Jonathon have their likeness portrayed anywhere here at Huntington Manor?” 
            So this was it?  She was going to make another request of him.  “No.” 
            “Do you not think it time that they did?  This also could be incorporated into my treasure hunt for your son.  It would be very exciting for him to think that he would finally be amongst his ancestors, his heritage.  And, of course, because he would be getting his portrait, Elspeth could get hers completed at the same time, do you not think so?” 
            Creighton sighed a heavy sigh.  She was determined, he could see.  She wanted so very much for his children to be happy.  How could he fault her for this?  Could he really be any luckier to have such a governess for his children?  She had not asked for much yet except for his personal involvement.  Portraits would be much easier, for he would not have to be present.  Conceding to her wishes, he said, “Of course, my lady.  Why not?” 
            “Oh!  You can be so kind and generous, my lord.  Thank you!”  She looked so surprised, it injured his pride. 
“I am glad you think I am kind and generous, my lady,” he said facetiously. 
Carly blushed at the realization of what she had said.  “I only meant to be grateful, sir.” 
He knew it was true.  “I do believe you have a very grateful heart.”  
Wondering if he was teasing again, she studied him.
“My compliment was earnestly meant…this time,” he smiled.  
“Oh.”  She blushed again. “Thank you.” 
“I will engage an artist and have someone here as soon as available.  Is that satisfactory, my lady?” 
“Oh, yes, my lord.”  As he began to sit down at his desk, she took his cue and said, “Again, I thank you, my lord.  If there is nothing further to discuss, I shall leave you.” 
“You may be excused.” 
“Good day, sir.” 
“And to you as well.”  He watched her leave the room.  She was aware that he did so.   But her mind quickly returned to her exciting plans. 
Oh!  Jonathon would be so happy! 

Treasure Hunts, Governesses, Masters, and rules.  So many things to think about!

Thanks for reading with me today!  Join me on Friday for more!
Ellise ;)

Friday, August 26, 2011

Friday, August 26, 2011 -- The Governess -- A Twice Weekly Blog

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 13 continued:           

“I wish only to get your permission since it will take some resources and planning to accomplish.  I will also need an approved location for his pirate ship to be kept.  I am very hopeful for the outcome.” 
            “But a ship?”  Lord Huntington looked at Lady Blakemore with incredulity.  “What a monstrosity!  What would we ever do with it once your treasure hunt is over, pray tell?” 
            “I am quite sure Jonathon will play with his ship for years to come, if it is done right, my lord.  I think even Elspeth would enjoy playing pirates, or something adventurous with Jonathon once it is finished.  Children can be ever so creative.  It would be good for them to have imaginative time to play and adventure together.  Maybe he would even like to make a little friend or two that would also enjoy playing these nice summer days away.” 
            “But what of his studies?  Is it only that you need more time off?” 
            “No, no!  Not at all!  I am quite fine, and Jonathon will always have his studies, my lord.  He is quite brilliant, and he is most able to do both at the same time.  In fact, I believe that if he has some of these unique opportunities to play and adventure, he will be even more accomplished in his studies.  I believe it is just what he needs.  Besides, I can incorporate adventure into our lessons by taking them around the world studying maps, trading routes, and so forth.  It would be quite enjoyable, the best way to learn!” 
            He was curious.  “But why do you care so very much, Lady Blakemore?  I have never had a governess who would go to so much trouble to make sure my son is…happy.” 
            “Well, of course, it is only because I…” Carly hesitated, surprising herself at what she had been about to say.  She blushed, stuttering, “…Only…because...” 
            “Yes?  Do go on,” Lord Huntington said even more curious now. 
            Carly was growing uncomfortable with the feelings that she was wishing to express, excited to realize how much she already cared for little Jonathon, yet worried about uttering such feelings for him to his father.  Deciding to be completely honest anyway, she said, “I love him, my lord.” 
            Lord Huntington could only stare at her, confusion growing upon his features.  “That is absurd.  You barely know him.” 
            “He is wonderful.”  She smiled timidly.  “He is so good, Lord Huntington.  You have an amazing little boy.” 
            He stood staring at her, baffled.  “Mrs. Thompson has informed me of some of the tricks he has played upon you, and yet you have never come to me and complained.” 
            “She knew?  I did not realize…” 
            “My staff tell me everything, Lady Blakemore.” 
            “Oh.” 
            “I told you my children could be quite troublesome, and yet I wonder that you would take so much pain to win him over.” 
            Her hackles went up.  “I am not trying to win him, my lord!  I wish for him to see life differently!  I want him to be a happy, normal little boy!  What I would not give to have him for my own so that I could love him always and make sure that he knows that he is so very, very important!”  Carly was breathing hard, exasperated at Lord Huntington.  Then she realized what she had said, her outburst disclosing to her master such personal feelings that she had of mothering his dear children. 
But it had been said, and she would not take it back. 

What an exciting adventure Carly is planning for Jonathon!  Will he feel his father's love and participation?

Thanks for reading with me today!  Join me on Monday for more.
Ellise ;)

Monday, August 22, 2011

Monday, August 22, 2011 -- The Governess -- Twice Weekly Blog

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 13 continued:

At that moment, Heather, the shy parlourmaid, entered the salon and curtsied to her bringing forward a silver tray with a letter placed upon it.  Smiling kindly, she said, “A letter ‘as arrived for you, milady.” 
            Carly smiled happily, and thanked Heather again and again for bringing her this welcomed diversion.  Placing the book of poetry down, she thought to herself that she would read no more of this gloom.  She was, in her mind’s eye, already returning it to the library shelf. 
As Heather quietly exited the room, Carly welcomed the reading of her sister’s response, enjoying the constant rhythm of the rain. 

Dear Carly,

            I was so happy to receive your letter today!  I have been so lonely for you, my sweet Carly.  I wholly regret our separation, but know that it must be.  Put your mind at ease, though, dear sister, for I too have a loving family and children to be with.  The Radford’s are kind and their staff as well.  The children are Mary, 8, Thomas, 10, and George, 12.  It seems so very odd teaching children that are almost as old as I am.  After all, eighteen is not that far removed, is it? 
            You do make me worry about your master, Carly.  Is he good to you?  You must watch your tongue.  You have a way of getting yourself into trouble.  I am afraid I always let you do the talking and so I am not good at negotiations. 
            Now this situation with the little boy, Jonathon.  How sad that he is troubled.  But if anyone can pull his heart strings, it will be you, my dear Carly.  I am so happy to know he has you to rely upon.  When reading your letter, the most wonderful idea occurred to me.  What do you think of a treasure hunt, just for him, your little pirate?  I thought it intriguing and wondered if you thought it a fun plan to put into action?  Let me know how things go between the two of you.  I find it difficult to believe that his heart could remain unattached from yours for long. 
My mistress has told me that I may visit you anytime that it is convenient, except when we are on holiday, so please let me know if I may.  The weather is awful here, so, I too, think of our walks in the gardens.  How I do miss home and mother and father, and you.  I am so lucky to have you.  I always count my blessings, and give thanks in prayer.  I pray for you daily, as well, knowing that the good Lord will watch over you better than I. 
            I will write again soon, for I know how much I will treasure each of your letters. 

                                                With all my love,
                                                Susannah

What will become of these sisters?  Thanks for joining me today!  Join me Friday for more.
Ellise ;)

Friday, August 19, 2011

Friday, August 19, 2011 -- The Governess -- Twice Weekly Blog


Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 13:

Carly’s heart ached as she read the sadness in the marred pages of this tiny book...the book of poetry given to her to read by Lord Huntington her first night.  It was obvious that someone had read these particular passages often, but only to her amazement, for they were terrible and filled with loneliness. 
Was it he? 
There was hope in the passages as well, but thinking of Lord Huntington as the reader of these words, her heart flip-flopped with concern for him and then trepidation.  The rain cascaded down the windows of the salon in rippling sheets as she read on: 
                                                                       
White shoulders and ebony hair
Work their magic and flawless snare
Bluest eyes and garnet lips
Through my hands doest thou slip
Waiting impatient for true love’s bliss
Would that I could capture your kiss
Try me, mock me, break my heart
But do not from me ever part
Callous and cold can you be
When will you ever rescue me
From my pain and lovesick soul
Wilt thou please surrender whole
Can it be that thou art shy
Timid, demure, purest eye
Hold me, love me, tell me true
That your love blossoms anew

Immediately, she did not like the woman talked of in this poem.  How could she torment someone who obviously loved her so intensely?  Carly could not fathom being so unkind. 
“Wicked, wicked woman.  At least ease his troubled heart by letting the gentleman know of one’s disinterest.  Allow him to move on, even with a broken heart.”  She continued with another poem, distressed at the deep response of emotion she was feeling. 

Watching her across the yard
Helplessly surrendering to her charm
Would that she could see my heart
And relieve it from its pain
Truly, is there something to guard
Or from me cause you any harm
For I do not think I could depart
And remain completely sane

            Secretly, she wished the woman in yet another poem would turn around and see her hidden lover’s pain at not having her.  Would she turn to him?  Ease his pain? 
Laughing at herself, she suddenly asked, “Why do I care?”  She continued a bit impatiently, noticing that this next page was badly disfigured and nearly torn from the book: 

Words cut at my heart
Fear encircled me
This was my worst nightmare
I wanted to stop the words
STOP!  I shouted
Do not say such things to me
Tears formed in my eyes because of my breaking heart
But I did not want to be seen
I looked away out the window
As if not hurting as badly as I did

Willingly showing affection
Putting my arms around bravely for the first time
There was a difference
Always this had been wanted from me
Now that I freely gave
It was rejected
Fear had grown first at that moment

Fervent in my explanation that it did not have to be this way
My words were not accepted
Hurting me instead by cold resolve
For months I cried
For years…I died

Married, but not to me
For my pain was too infinite and unforgiving
Only now did I realize the gifts given me
My freedom
My virtue

Budding love was a beginning to something greater
I did not understand at the time
Barely do I now
But I was protected in this way
Only realizing after the pain
How much happier I had become

Sadness consumed Carly.  Were these insights into her master’s troubled heart?  Were these words any sort of reflection or secret longing?  She was embarrassed at the possible glimpse into his secret wounds that he had invited.  Could he be gentle and kind, wishing for love’s bliss?  She was quite sure that if he wished it, he could level a room with swooning ladies collapsing on top of one another with enraptured fantasies floating in their silly heads. 
Putting her hand to her mouth, she giggled as this silly thought played out in her mind. 
But then she reflected upon the brooding passion this man carried with him always.  Was he doomed to unhappiness or was his heart merely broken?  Would he heal?  And what sort of woman would it take to heal him? 
Blushing at the desire that approached her heart at the thought of being that woman, she thought, how could she, of all people, create the sort of feelings she was sure would be needed to conquer his broken heart?  A man such as he?  “Impossible!” she stated to the empty room. 


How will Carly look at her master after reading such poetry?
Thanks for reading with me today!  Join me on Monday for more. 
Ellise ;)

Monday, August 15, 2011

Monday, August 15, 2011 -- The Governess -- A Twice Weekly Blog

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 12 completed:

Carly was alarmed. 
More disturbing incidents had occurred.  Several days in succession, Carly had caught someone watching her from different windows of the house while she wandered the grounds.  One window in particular seemed to be the favorite.  Making an effort to figure out which room this was, she discovered that it was the Study. 
Disturbing! 
            Today it had occurred again.  She was enjoying the gardens and had definitely seen someone staring at her.  Had it been the master?  Carly was not certain.  But who else would it be?  Could it be a servant?  “Surely it could,” she said to herself.  There were only a couple servants thus far that Carly had felt any animosity from.  When discussing this with Millesant, she was told not to worry, that she would discuss it with Mrs. Thompson. 
Millesant said, “I overheard these two silly girls discussing how aggravated they feel when their sweethearts stare in wonder at your beauty.” 
Carly rolled her eyes in disbelief. 
“They are only jealous,” Millesant said, which seemed to make her happy somehow. 
            On two occasions, Carly had heard heavy footsteps, deep in the night, stop in front of her bedroom door.  Did Huntington Manor have a ghost for which it was famous?  Not hardly.  Was it, indeed, her doorway that held this specter’s interest?  Undeniably it was, for she had discerned the handle noisily wiggling.  Were not these troubling incidents?  What kind of household had she come into? 
            Again, Carly contemplated the rumors surrounding Lord Huntington, that of his wife’s death and the kidnappings of innocent young girls in this district alone.  He could be to blame.  “Is it really possible?  How would I know?”  Suspicions of his actions crept into her thoughts and disturbed her while she slept, dreamed, and worked, but no more so than when she dined with him and could occasionally sense his dark moods.  At these times, she would throw caution to the wind and try with all her might to draw him out, even make him angry on purpose.  Anything was better than his preoccupied scowl. 
            Tonight’s meal had been particularly dangerous, for he had yelled at her again.  Having said something which provoked his fury, he had come to hover too closely above her while his rage was unleashed.  In his wrath, Lord Huntington had taken her chin in his strong fingers, which she had indignantly yanked away.  Because of her defiance, a curious sparkle ignited in his eyes which terrified, yet thrilled her. 
Quickly, his demeanor had changed, and he smiled down at her with that wicked grin that gave her goose bumps.  Inches from her face, he made her breath quicken in fear.  She carefully arose, excusing herself. 
Before she could leave, his anger was rekindled, and he stood in her way of departure.  Carly stood staring angrily at him before she stepped around him, quickly retreating, resolute to be more careful. 


Who is disturbing Carly's sleep?  Watching her from windows?  Why is Lord Huntington so passionately disappointed? Why is he passionate at all?  What boils beneath the surface of this household?

Join me on Friday to learn more.  Thanks for reading!
Ellise ;)

Friday, August 12, 2011

Friday, August 12, 2011 -- Twice Weekly Blog -- The Governess

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 12 continued:

The new gown Carly was stitching was coming along splendidly.  It would be simple, but it would fit her much better than any other she owned.  “I think it quite lovely,” she said to herself.  The green fabric would complement her eye color, a comment that would have been made by her mother, if she were here.  Deftly, her fingers sewed the tiny stitches so that they were hardly noticeable.  Within the week, she was sure to be finished. 
Carly had felt numerous occasions to pray in gratitude for the plentiful blessings she was receiving.  So long had she and her sister been scraping a living, she had almost forgotten what gift bounty was? 
            Elspeth would often join her in her off time, asking questions of her project.  Carly was determined that she must make the most of this little girl’s interest in sewing and start her upon it very soon.  She must ask permission to take the children to town on an outing to procure a sampler for Elspeth and maybe something for Jonathon that would ignite his interests. 
            Smiling to herself, she enjoyed her quiet solitude, humming softly.             

*******

Tittering laughter sounded down the hallway as Carly walked towards the salon.  Only realizing then that the room must be occupied, she halted.   Another assortment of giggles assailed her ears as she wondered who was here.  And then she heard a sound she had never before heard. 
Could it be? 
Was it even possible? 
She doubted it!  Highly! 
But she could not help herself as she secreted a peek into the room to see for herself. 
            There he was, in all his greatness.  Laughing with the most delightful young lady.  Of all things!  A real, true-to-it’s-name, belly laugh! 
            Who was she?  She seemed to have Lord Huntington’s undivided attention.  Exclusivity without the yelling?  Was it possible? 
            She was harsh, was she not?  She must strive to be more kind. 

Judging others is hard not to do sometimes.  However, it is best to see the good in people.  Carly will attempt to be less judgmental of her harsh master, but Lord Huntington will try her patience.  Thanks for reading with me today.  :)  Join me on Monday for more!
Ellise ;)

Monday, August 8, 2011

Monday, August 8, 2011 -- Twice Weekly Blog -- The Governess


Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 12:


The chapel was Home.  Carly enjoyed the intricate bible stories displayed in reds, yellows, greens and blues of the stained glass windows.  The dark pews showed signs of age as did the structure itself.  This chapel, she could tell, had been built by the Normans, probably the 11th century, because of the style of architecture.  Doorways, windows and the hall itself displayed the ever-present archway.  Most Norman structures that she had seen or heard of were much larger, but this would be a favorite, especially because of the smaller scale. 
The quaint country chapel made Carly think of her father, as did the Sabbath day.  Even more so, the words of wisdom she drew from the counsel given gave her courage to face her week.  The vicar spoke of how trials could strengthen or weaken us.  It ultimately is our choice which course was chosen.  Carly thought of all that had happened in the past year and a half and determined, once again, to be strong.  Even her short time at Huntington Manor had been a stretch for her.  Surely her mother and father would wish for her to be a strength and help to this world, even in her small corner of it.  She must be this person they would wish of her to be. 
Carly felt many eyes upon her as she sang along to the hymns.  These were simple folk who lived and raised families in Dunford village and surrounding countryside.  Their curiosity was disconcerting, but nevertheless, expected.  She, herself, was a bit curious towards them.  Many smiled at her, and she smiled back at them.  She hoped she would make many friends here.  Her bench was filled with servants from the manor house, but no master.  She wondered if he ever attended, but doubted it.  If he did not come next week, she would ask him if at least his children could attend.  Hoping that he would allow them to, she also hoped he would not make them sit on the family pew.  It was hard enough to be stared at from here.  But maybe she would not be invited to sit upon that bench with the family? 
Returning to the sermon, Carly listened to the vicar as he explained passages of scripture.  She was thankful again that there existed men who wished to better know God and His ways, and help those, like herself, who did not always know the interpretation of such things. 

*******

Exasperated with her obstinate master, Carly argued, “I do not see any reason why the children cannot accompany me to church.  Why would you be against such a weekly excursion?” 
            “It is not a weekly excursion which I am against, Lady Blakemore.  I do not owe you any explanation as to why I do what I do.”  Lord Huntington’s jaw was twitching, working against his anger, anger that he struggled to keep in check. 
            “I think you can be quite inflexible, my lord.”  Carly had been shocked that the children had not come to church again today. 
            “You go on thinking that, if you wish, as long as you do as I say.  Good day, my lady.”  Lord Huntington walked out of the Great Hall directly to the stables. 

It's my anniversary today, so I'm late with my blog.  Thank you for reading with me.  Join me Friday for more.

Ellise ;)

Friday, August 5, 2011

Friday, August 5, 2011 -- Twice Weekly Blog -- The Governess

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 11 finished:

As his own breathing calmed, his chest heaved a heavy, relieved sigh with knowing that his children were safe.  Dabbing at her eyes with his handkerchief, Lord Huntington said gruffly, “I have handled my fears poorly, Lady Blakemore.  I have quite upset you.  Again, I am in need of apologizing to you.”
Shaking her head, she exclaimed, “But no!  It is I who have upset you and am in need of apologizing!  I had no idea of the circumstances of your wife’s…death…”  Shuddering against him, she cried, “I am so, so sorry! 
He wiped guiltily at her tears again. 
“I truly was watching the children.  I only lay down for a moment, listening to them laugh.  They were enjoying themselves so much.  I was just thinking about bringing a jar for the minnows next time…” 
He smoothed the tears off her cheeks as she struggled for control over her shuddering breaths.  He was aware that his feelings had changed abruptly.  What I would not do to comfort her!  To think that he was the cause of her distress was deeply disappointing.  He reluctantly stepped away from her, dangerously aware of how it felt to hold her in his arms.  
“Please.  I ask this of you.  Ease my troubled heart, and do not bring the children here again.” 
Blinking through her remaining tears, she stepped away, turning her back to him to gather her senses, hair and skirts twirling.  Watching as she momentarily composed herself, he heard her say, “As much as I respect you, my lord…” 
Interrupting, he carefully warned, “Lady Blakemore, please…” 
“…and…and as best as I can understand the circumstances and your fears, still, it is such a beautiful place, a place to be enjoyed, not to be avoided, and,” she became quiet, and whispered, “not to remember only death.”  Swiftly turning to him, she exclaimed, “I am sorry…but it is the truth!”  Wiping at her cheeks fiercely, embarrassed at her persistent emotion, she continued, “Wasn’t this tragedy two years ago?” 
His hands impatiently rested upon his hips, his anger boiling to the surface instantly. 
“They should be allowed to grieve and heal by replacing these sad memories with newer, happier memories of this place.  And you should too.”  Lord Huntington stepped away, turning his back to her.  “My lord, today you have given them another awful memory of this place.  They may not wish to come back.  Ever.” 
Spinning around, he shouted, “You make me crazy, woman!  Can I not give you an order and have it obeyed the first time?”  Grabbing her again, her hair wildly bouncing around her shoulders, he commanded, “You will obey me!” 
            Choking back her tears, refusing to allow them their freedom this time, she fiercely stated, “I must be allowed to tell you what I think is best for the children.”  She yanked her arms free of his hands, but continued.  He steeled himself for more of her explanations.  “If we both look to their best interests, I am sure we can agree on their happiest future by what we decide today.” 
            Groaning from exasperation at this tiny woman before him with her determination and strength of a fortress, he began again, raking his hands through his hair, as he answered, “If you insist upon bringing them to the lake,” he said through clenched teeth, “I wish for there to be…someone else present to help you watch them, at the very least.  You should be taking precautions, simply because…it is wise.  You never know what children might suddenly do.  Or worse, who is wandering about.” 
            Embarrassed that she had forgotten this, she said, “I am sorry that I forgot, my lord.”  Then impatiently, she questioned, “Why could that someone else not be you?”
            With frustration apparent, he sighed heavily, “You never give up do you?” 
            “Not when I think it worth the effort.  I see now what I failed to see before.” 
            “And what is that?” 
            “You truly do care about your children.  You do…love them.” 
            “Of course I do!  You have doubted that?” he growled, questioning her.   
            “I have,” she spoke softly, embarrassed. 
            “I see.”  Eyes narrowed at her blatant honesty. 
            Almost begging him, she asked, “Please, will you not join us on a picnic next week, say, Tuesday?  They both enjoy the outdoors so very much.” 
            “I have business that day with the Marquis of Southwickshire and a Mr. Stone.”
            “Perhaps another day then…” 
            Resolved to make her understand his arrangement, he said, “Lady Blakemore, I will leave the position of governess to you.  I will see you at our evening meal.”  Bowing, he turned, mounted his horse and was gone. 

*******

So, the little governess was getting herself into trouble.  Good!  Her worries as yet were unfounded.  That was all that mattered.  For Creighton was hers and no one else’s!  She would make sure of that. 
            Progress upon her new wardrobe was nearing completion, the London shops busy with her demands, but she would leave now nonetheless.  Something inside told her she must be on her way. 
            Thinking of her most intimate confidant, she decided to involve them in her little plot.  Yes!  They would be splendid!  They were, after all, just alike.  Always scheming to get their way… The perfect partner in helping her claim her deserved husband. 
            She laughed to herself, pleased with her plans.  She would be home soon…

Why won't Lord Huntington be more involved with his children?  And who is this secret woman plotting to have him?  And what can Carly do about either situation?

Thanks for reading with me today.  Join me on Monday for more.
Ellise ;)

Monday, August 1, 2011

Monday, August 1, 2011 -- Twice Weekly Blog -- The Governess

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 11 cont'd:

Quickly, they ran back to the picnic blanket, frightened looks upon their young faces.  Carly sat up in time to see him jumping off his horse, quickly running toward them.  Seeing that he was furious, she had difficulty standing hastily in her gown, but soon stood before him. 
Grabbing her by the arms, he yelled, “Do you not know the dangers of children around water?”  Madly gripping her, he again yelled, “I thought I had left my children in safe hands, and now I am disappointed to find that I have not!”  After bellowing at her, leaving her confusion growing by leaps and bounds, he let go of her abruptly and bent down on his knees as he hugged both children to him at once.  They hugged him back, but Elspeth was now in tears.  Carly looked at the shallow waters at the shoreline perplexed by the perceived danger. 
“Jonathon, Elspeth, please…please walk back to the house at once.  I know it is a long walk, but I shall join you shortly.”  Watching them as they started quickly back to the house, they both saw Jonathon take Elspeth’s little hand to bring her comfort.  Lord Huntington stood, waiting until they were out of hearing range. 
He turned on her, fury boiling over. 
Carly’s hand was already at her throat. 
Standing inches from her, he spoke in a harsh voice, saying, “I have trusted the safety of my children to you, Miss Blakemore!”  The fear in his eyes made her step backwards, but he moved forward, capturing her arms not intending for her to escape his wrath.  “How could you be so careless?  I thought you were more vigilant than this,” he said more to himself than to her.  Dropping her arms, his hands raked through his dark hair back and forth with worry written over his face. 
Distraught over his behavior, she tried to be sensitive to his chaotic emotions, but could only reply, “Your children were safe, Lord Huntington.  I…I would never do anything to harm them.”  
“The lake,” he shouted, pointing at the water.  “You brought them to the lake!  You were not watching them just now, for I was watching you.”  Pacing back and forth, he asked with disbelief evident in his voice, “Did you not know that this is where their mother died?  Here, in these very waters?”  Grasping her arms again, he continued frantically, “They could have drowned, and you were not even watching.” 
With great shock, Carly trembled at this new information. 
Looking down upon her, truly seeing the woman standing here for the first time since coming upon their picnic, Lord Huntington saw her emotion growing, saw that she was violently trembling. 
Then, she burst into tears.   
Growling at himself remorsefully, he began to say to her, “For heaven’s sake…” 
Pulling her into his arms, he held her, resting his chin upon her head.  Noticing her hair was loose and hanging around her shoulders, his hands could not resist touching the sunlit tresses, trying to bring comfort to her.  “I have made you cry.” 
Instead of receiving comfort, the obviousness of his comment made her cry even harder. 
Stroking her long, beautiful hair, he felt repentant as she sobbed against his chest, her hands covering her face as if in shame.  He tried to give her his handkerchief, but she was too busy sobbing.  He wasn’t sure what to do with himself now. 
His outburst, his disclosure had upset her terribly, not having known previously how his wife had died.  How could I have been so careless, she thought?  Why has anyone not told me?  Will no one tell me the secrets of this house? 

How will this end?  Why such anger from Lord Huntington?  And how is it possible for Carly to stand up to him as she does?

Thanks for reading with me today!  Join me on Friday for more...
Ellise ;)