Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 21 continued:
Mr. Stone was blessedly interrupted in his insinuations as four beautiful ladies and two gentlemen, accompanied by Lord Huntington and Lord Carter entered the anteroom.
Carly was grateful for any distraction from this impious man. Happy to see women with whom she might socialize, she wondered if guests would be an irregular occurrence at Huntington Manor, for these were the first guests for supper. Of course there had been social calls, but none such as this. The numbers made the party even, which Carly supposed was intended. She was still amazed that Lord Huntington would wish her presence among this gentry.
Lord Huntington, impeccably dressed and handsome as ever, stepped towards her and Mr. Stone, saying, “Lady Blakemore, I wish to introduce you to Lord and Lady Pembrooke and Lady Margaret Pembrooke, their daughter. They are our closest neighbors. Lady Madeline, I might add, is my mother’s best friend.” Lord Pembrooke bowed, seeming rather snobbish. However, Lady Pembrooke, expensively dressed in a simple, yet beautifully designed pale green gown seemed genuinely kind and happy to meet her.
But their daughter seemed to have taken an instant dislike to Carly.
But why?
She shared the same gorgeous blonde hair as her mother, equally expertly coiffed. With a bearing of great confidence, she obviously had no compunction for displaying herself for all to see. Adorned in the finest, most sensual pink gown Carly had ever seen, she flaunted her exquisite creamy white shoulders and bust proudly. Why she should look at Carly so unkindly, she did not understand.
Lord Huntington continued, “Mr. Stone has had the privilege of knowing the Pembrooke’s for many years. However, may I introduce you both to Miss Mary Murtaugh, a cousin of the Pembrooke’s and presently their houseguest?”
Hair color similar to Carly’s own, she was dressed in an expensive gown as well, but more modest than Lady Margaret’s. But even she held a noticeable malice towards Carly. Confused, Carly was gracious as possible toward them both.
The most fiery red hair belonged to the fourth lady. Splendid blazing ringlets caressed her shoulders, setting off her emerald green evening gown and deepest brown eyes. She was stunning. Remarkably so. The lady seemed quite taken with Lord Huntington, Carly noticed straight away. However, the redhead hardly gave notice to the governess’s presence.
Her accompanying friend, not as handsome as she, was quiet, yet kind, his smile mild mannered. His inconspicuous brown hair and unremarkable eyes helped melt him into the background.
Lord Huntington’s introduction of them did not answer Carly’s questions as to their relationship with him. Brother and sister, the Hansen’s from London. That was it.
But the tension in the air had grown. Carly studied the evening’s guests considering from whence the friction came. Some of the apprehension was obvious, but being unfamiliar with society’s competitions and deceptions, Carly was unsure of herself with these fine ladies, let alone with the gentlemen.
As the ladies curtsied to one another and the gentlemen bowed, they said their how do you do’s.
Curiosity over Lady Blakemore’s presence was tangible, so Lord Huntington continued, “Lady Blakemore is Jonathon and Elspeth’s new governess.” Lady Margaret and Miss Murtaugh looked knowingly at one another. They already knew it seemed.
“She is already a favorite at Huntington Manor.” Smiling devilishly at Carly, Lord Huntington made Carly feel herself color at his words. Miss Hansen did not seem overly pleased either about his teasing nature towards his governess. Would anyone befriend her this night? Someone besides the abhorrent Mr. Stone?
“And, of course, Mr. Stone often has business with the Marquis and I,” Creighton continued, seemingly unaware of the rifled feathers in the room.
“As well as Lord Pembrooke, my lord.” Mr. Stone proudly chimed in.
“Yes. Yes, of course.” Lord Huntington held his arm out to Carly to advance to the dining room, signaling everyone to follow. She did not miss the way his eyes devoured her. He leaned over, whispering into her ear as they walked, “You look exquisite in your pretty new gown, Lady Blakemore.”
She shivered noticeably.
As he escorted her through the Red Room’s doors, she looked up into his face with a shy smile, and said, “Thank you, my lord.” He nodded and smiled, his dimple showing. Carly’s heart flip-flopped in her chest.
As Mr. Thompson, the unassuming butler, quietly showed everyone to their places at the table, and Lord Huntington seated Carly, she noticed the brilliant red walls, magnificent décor, and the elaborately set table. Exquisite centerpieces and foods for the first course of many were exhibited for all to enjoy. Everyone commented on how superbly everything looked and smelled.
What an evening this would be!
Carly is excited to meet new people. Will they become her friends?
Join me Friday for more from this dinner party.
Ellise
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