Friday, January 6, 2012 -- The Governess -- A Twice Weekly Blog

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 23 concluded:

As Creighton made his morning rounds, he was successful in clearing his troubled mind.  He always found comfort in the outdoors.  Admittedly, he had difficulty sleeping last night and had also arisen early to refresh himself in the crisp morning air.  It always seemed to work, and was now glad that it had. 

But now, to his great disappointment, he spotted the mesmerizing Lady Charlotte and Mr. Stone from a distance in conversation as they sat upon their horses.  A stab of jealousy instantly pierced his heart.  Jealousy angered him, among other emotions.  Thinking to himself, he asked, What right do I have to feel this way?  He asked himself over and over why he was wasting thought upon these tiresome feelings.  Surely he had self-control, the ability to forget whatever he wanted?  Her even? 

But…it had not worked last night. 

Impatiently he thought, What is she to me but my obstinate little governess…that I took advantage of last night, he considered, sheepishly.  He tried to shake feelings of guilt, yet strong ownership over her, but it seemed he could not. 

Not allowing himself to ponder upon them but for a moment, he commented aloud, “Let them enjoy their ride together then.  Let’s go, Storm!” he shouted to his winded stallion and angrily rode off toward the stables. 

Carly was glad to get away from Mr. Stone, as short as the duration of their conversation was.  After talking with Joe for awhile, she made her way into the house passing Lord Huntington on her way upstairs.  Instantly nervous because of their passionate exchange the night before, she slowed her ascension, staring at him timidly, unsure of what to expect…what to say? 

Wearing his usual scowl, he glowered at her, barking, “Did you enjoy Mr. Stone’s exceptional company?” as he brusquely passed her descending the stairs. 

            She stood looking after him, confused by his words.  Obviously he had seen her with Mr. Stone this morning.  Had he assumed that they were riding together?  Horrible thought! 

Thoroughly confused at her master’s behavior towards her, one minute yelling the next teasing, and then last night kissing her, she sighed, and went in search of the children.  At least they would be pleased to see her. 

            And they were. 

How she reveled their company. 

*******

Carly thought of all that had happened since coming to Huntington Manor.  Already very close to Jonathon and Elspeth, she felt gratitude knowing they had similar tender feelings towards her.  She had been so relieved to find Jonathon ready to accept her after all her efforts to draw him closer. 

Her master—he was a different matter.  She found her mind wandering to think on him often during each day, speculating at what he was doing, wondering if he was happy.  Sometimes she would come upon him in the halls or in a particular room, and he would generally be brusque with her.  At these times, she wondered at his display of intimacy towards her in the library…that they both seemed to ignore happened. 

What had been his purpose? 

His intentions? 

Sometimes she would grow angry with his arrogant assumption that he could just kiss her like he had.  Often brooding upon the subject, it seemed as if it had never happened.  At other times, she could think only of how it felt to be caressed so by his lips…ooh!  Shivers of ecstasy always accompanied such thoughts.

But mostly, she worried horribly that she was not living up to his expectations and satisfaction as a governess.  Would she be required to find new employment?  When she happened upon him, he would look at her so intently, she would become embarrassed at his obvious examination of her.  Approaching her in that proud, dignified way of his, he would proceed as if he would have conversation with her over something, only to abruptly excuse himself instead. 

Often confused by his behavior towards her, she was forever wishing she understood men more clearly because she obviously did not understand this man.  She felt that the blame of these awkward moments must somehow lay with her. 

And then, of course, her anger would begin all over again. 

Why should she feel to be blamed?  He was the guilty party.  She would ignore him as he ignored her.  Simple. 

Back to the daydreaming again…Carly busied herself writing her letter instead. 

Having spent the last year in mourning, Carly had not had time for any real suitors and did not feel well-prepared on the subject.  Her sister had even less experience.  In her responses to Susannah, Carly decided not to confide in her about Lord Huntington’s conduct, knowing Susannah’s tender heart would worry very much about her. 

Goodness!  She was worried herself. 

Carly could picture the lecture she would receive if Susannah were here, for it only took remembering dear Philippa for either of them to become sober over the mild flirtations of the gentry.  Oh, the scandal that had ensued over the newly betrothed Lady Caroline to Philippa’s dearest love, Lord Digby.  Carly and Susannah had argued with their father extensively over the matter, further arguing how horribly treated their friend had been.  It seemed it was not only his daughters that the vicar must calm, but the whole of the village.  Many a long service had been prepared to help the parishioners find forgiveness in their hearts for such a diabolical deed done to one of their own.  Lord Digby’s reputation amongst the villagers must be repaired, for not only was it right to forgive, but much industry depended upon him, whether he was deserving of the people’s forgiveness or not. 

Carly sighed heavily, contemplating her sister’s sermon that she herself would completely agree with. 

So, no. 

She would not mention her first incredible kiss. 

And men say women are confusing?  Join me on Monday to start Chapter 24, titled Torment.

Ellise ;)

Monday, January 2, 2012 -- The Governess -- A Twice Weekly Blog

Happy New Year to all!  I hope you all had a very Merry Christmas as well. 

I apologize for taking a two-week hiatus without notice.  But, I was quite overwhelmed.  On top of that, I came down with a nasty cold on Christmas Eve that just about shut me down completely.  But, we got through it fine. 

Unfortunately, the overwhelming feeling has not gone away.  I am happy to say that I finally reached the Editor's Desk on authonomy.com, and am #1.  Woohoo!  Pretty exciting!  But, I have only just found out that much of my historical information, specifically the titles of the aristocracy and the relationships between the peerage, is incorrect.  I have only this month to rectify it, and I am very overwhelmed.  But, I will work frantically to fix it, hopefully without ruining my story in the process. 

One of the changes that I've already made is changing Carly's name to Caroline.  I'm not really happy about this, but I have been assured that it is more accurate.  Her 'pet-name' will remain 'Carly', and I will mostly use this throughout the story still.  However, I'm still debating whether Carly will remain 'Lady Caroline Blakemore' or if I will have to make her only a 'Miss Caroline Blakemore'?  I don't know this yet, I'm sorry to say. 

But--now we will proceed with storytelling, shall we not?

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 23:

Chapter 23

 Brooding

*******

Creighton lay in his bed wondering about this girl he had just ravished.  How could he have done that to her?  Why had he listened to Hayden?  Except he was his best friend and should have his best interests at heart? 

Hitting his pillow, he could not sleep.  Knowingly, he had increased the fear in her that was already there.  Used to having control over his emotions when it came to women, he wondered why that had changed, especially with his governess of all people. 

Roughly turning over, he again hit his pillow with a growl.  How would he ever get her eyes, her mouth, her sweet taste out of his memory?  Scowling at the thought of facing her again, he determined that this was his house, and she would have to get used to him…if she would stay? 

Instantly not liking the thought of her leaving, he sat up in bed.  These strong emotions bothered him greatly.  He would not succumb as Hayden would like to see, for he was in control, he must be. 

Falling back onto his pillow, he roughly rubbed his hands through his tousled hair and placed his arms behind his head as he continued his battle with…her fine mouth…her fine eyes…her very fine hair…

How could she sleep after being kissed like that—and by him?  How could she have known he could be so incredible?  Of all people to bestow her first kiss!  Her employer? 

            Struggling with fear of him that was quickly being replaced by the memory of his kisses—the gentle ecstasy of his kisses—she thought, oh, how can I face him again?  Could she look at him again without looking at his tempting lips? 

She should leave…shouldn’t she?  Needing this occupation desperately, she otherwise would sincerely consider it.  Or would she? 

Oh, what shall I do? 

Tossing and turning all night, she determined to have a very early morning ride. 

 

*******

Riding recklessly fast on Clover the next morning, Carly had needed the freedom of the fresh morning air to invigorate her clouded mind and her tired body.  She was unaware Mr. Stone watched and waited for his opportunity to bump into her.  It finally came as she rounded the grove of trees he was hiding in. 

Quickly moving forward at the right moment, as if he had been riding for some time, he practically barreled right into Carly.  Both horses reared upward, a startled cry slipping from Carly’s mouth.  Mr. Stone quickly gained control of both horses, as he grabbed Carly’s horse by the halter.  “Are you alright, Lady Caroline?” he asked with feigned concern and worry in his deep voice and handsome, yet troubling face.  She had no idea he had calculated this meeting. 

            Carly was reassuring her horse, and then exclaimed, “Mr. Stone!  I did not see you coming this way.” 

            Still holding her horse, he was looking at her all too favorably.  “You must allow me to make it up to you.  May I join you?” 

            She contemplated being forced to endure his loathsome company.  “Well, um…I…I was only coming back from the village and…and,” she remembered his forwardness last night at supper.  Anger instantly swelled in her breast as she recalled his impudence.  “Mr. Stone.  I do not believe you owe me anything except for an apology.”  Jutting out her chin in her challenge to him, she waited. 

            Chuckling, he said, “But that would imply I was sorry, and I am not.”  His black eyes glittered in a frenzy of obsession.  Licking his lips in his detestable way, he added, “You are an enticing young lady.” 

            Greatly annoyed at his disrespect, she said angrily, “Then we have nothing further to discuss.  Good day!”  Carly spurred Clover into a fast gallop, wishing herself as far away from this abominable man as she could get.  He sat astride his horse watching her departure, regrettably noticing her escort had started swiftly towards them at their collision. 

He must control his desire for her.  His impatience. 

Quickly, she rode towards the stables…and to safety. 

Bad guys?  Or just bad intentions?  Hmmm... Read on to find out.  Join me on Friday for more discoveries.

Ellise :)

Friday, December 16, 2011 -- The Governess -- A Twice Weekly Blog

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 22 continued:

(I moved ahead in this chapter only skipping a little...)

Moonlight cast shadows across the dark hall as Creighton saw Lady Blakemore enter the library still dressed in the magnificent sapphire blue gown that hugged her so.  She must not be able to sleep again, he thought. 

Curiosity baited him… 

Hesitating to follow her after what Hayden had said to him, he decided to test Hayden’s theory, after all.  He wished to see her from this new perspective. 

            Entering the room, he watched her as she looked for a book to read.  He couldn’t believe the amount of reading she devoured.  Drawn to her beauty, which that much Creighton had already openly admitted, he observed her closely.  Her form was tantalizing, but it would take more than outward appearances to tempt him to put his heart on the line ever again.  Janese had been beautiful too, and yet she had betrayed him endlessly.  He was not about to let that happen to his heart again…

…Ever.   

            Closing his eyes, he could not help breathing in her tempting scent lingering inside the doorway.  Looking at her hair, he wanted to touch it, free it from its pins.  Yes, her hair was entrancingly gorgeous.  Remembering how silky soft it was when he held her at the lake, he treasured the memory.  Her pins had come loose somehow and it had fallen all around her shoulders.  Dark, long curls that captured vibrant chestnut tones in the warm sunlight coursed down over delicate shoulders, down her back all the way to her tiny waist.  A vision of loveliness she had been on that day! 

Again, today on Clover when her dark tresses flew behind her as she vigorously rode, he had helplessly watched enchanted by her; and again, her wild, curling mane had been stuck to the button on her riding habit and he had touched it to free her soft locks.  Not recognizing he had been savoring these memories, he was deeply surprised. 

            Scowling, he realized she was looking at him, her own features clouded with concern.  But it was unwarranted fear, was it not?  Carefully, he walked toward her, and as he got closer, he could tell that she was nearly ready to bolt away.  Stopping when he was a few feet from her, he stiltingly said, “Lady… Blakemore.  Did you… enjoy your evening?  Are you faring better?” 

            Nervous for whatever reason, she stared at him with a puzzled questioning look upon her face, and shyly nodded.  “Thank you.  It was good of you to include me, my lord.”  She could hardly say she was feeling better with him standing over her making her feel nervous.  She also dare not tell him of Mr. Stone’s outrageous behavior.  If his manners improved, which she thought impossible, she would not have to discuss this deplorable subject with him, ever. 

Nodding his head, he only said, “Of course.  You are always welcome at my table.”  Taking one more step toward her, he observed that she seemed even more to be upon a precipice, ready to jump.  Instead, she stepped backward as if she was terrified.  Distrustful. 

It was her eyes then that Lord Huntington noticed.  Yes, it had always been her eyes that intrigued him.  They had a spellbinding sparkle to them, so brilliant like gems, all the more green because of the blue of her gown.  Lord Huntington stepped closer still.  She could go no further; her back was against the bookcase, pleading eyes looking up at him in panic. 

            “Please,” she whispered, shaking her head nervously. 

            She was afraid of him, he thought with regret.  “I strike fear in your heart?” 

Hesitating a moment, she then nodded affirmatively.  Remorse came and went, covering his features.  Carly witnessed this, confused even more. 

His deep voice continued, “I do not wish it.  I only wish to…thank you for such becoming manners in front of my guests.  You are a jewel on any arm.” 

            Shocked, she could only falter, “Thank…thank you.”  Not wishing to be a coward, she tried to breathe evenly as she stood frozen, only aware of Lord Huntington filling the room.  So close, looking at her so strangely, he was a giant man, and if she did not fear him so, she would probably fall for him. 

But she could not have that. 

What comes next?  That promised moonlight kiss?  Watch and find out...

Ellise

Monday, November 14, 2011 -- The Governess -- A Twice Weekly Blog

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 21:

Mr. Stone reflected upon his life as he rode the countryside with the others.  Beautiful women such as Lady Blakemore always had that sort of effect upon men, he assumed, turning their minds to the contemplation of marriage, settling down, and children. 

Laughing to himself, he was amused at the image of himself as a devoted husband and father.  He could be quite humorous sometimes.  Again, he was diverted as her image returned to his mind, his mouth watering at the thought of kissing her soft, delicate shoulders.  Lady Blakemore’s fiery temper tantalized him…just the right qualities in a lover, he thought. 

            Returning to his previous thoughts, memories flooded his cankered heart as he remembered his own father.  Abusive, hateful, drunken, slothful; these were only a few of the words that came to his mind in reflecting upon this hated individual.  His face grew dark and angry with the memories of his father beating his beloved mother who always tried her best to protect her children from his violent hand. 

His two older sisters, younger brother, and he had always dreaded their father’s return from his drunken escapades.  They would all be so happy—briefly—while he was gone, knowing his return would only bring pain and grief, having spent what little wages he earned on spirits, and then questioning why his wife could not provide a kinder welcome and better meals for him upon his return.  He could almost recall the stench that was his father. 

The ugly cruelty he grew up with was beyond conscience, and he had become numb to the affects, learning survival was all that mattered.  Running away by the age of eleven, he had never returned.  Not knowing what had become of his two sisters or his little brother, all he had come to care about was his own full belly and satisfied needs.  Learning to take what he wanted, if given half a chance, he had done well by these methods. 

Thievery had been his only recourse, having no food or shelter.  Quickly, he became good at it, enjoying the exhilaration he felt while pilfering.  He learned that people trusted his innocent face, and he swiftly took advantage of this knowledge. 

Having observed how others had good occupations that provided steady-enough income, he determined he would much rather have suitable living conditions, food and drink, rather than not, on a very regular basis.  As he satisfied his first most basic needs, he began to hire himself out, saving his wages in various locations, as well as the results of his burglaries.  His stealthy ingeniousness had brought him great rewards and many business partners. 

As he grew older, he found he had saved much of his resources, and found opportunities to invest them in legitimate ventures.  Finding himself able to mix more and more with higher society than he had come from, he even adapted as best he could their language, manners, and dress, all copied to the last detail.  Even tutors had been hired to this end. 

He had become a master of deception. 

Determined to fit into the very best of families, he, therefore, created opportunities for his benefit.  Upon doing so, he had stumbled upon his most profitable venture thus far.  Rubbing his hands together, he thought no man could be happier.  Now, many years later, he lived the life he had only dreamed possible all those years ago. 

Now nearing his fortieth year, he smiled a satisfied smile when he thought of all he had accomplished in his short lifetime.  Briefly, an image of his mother’s sweet countenance appeared before him, a look of disappointment upon her lovely, yet scarred face, at his unwholesome activities.  Feeling a twinge of guilt, he only allowed himself this for a moment when he thought of all the legitimate business he also conducted.  Knowing his mother would never have approved of his choice of lifestyle, he figured she was not here to say anything. 

Sometimes he had been surprised at his coldness in dealing with his fellowman, or in most cases, fellow-woman, but figured he had inherited this attribute from his father’s well-demonstrated example of manhood. 

Sniffing quickly, wiping at his perspiring brow, impatient to be done with these depressing memories, he whipped at his horse brutally, kicking its hind quarters to speed his journey onward as he began again to think on more appealing thoughts; that of the lovely Lady Blakemore. 

A wicked man.  What is his significance?  Read on...

Ellise

Friday, November 11, 2011 -- The Governess -- A Twice Weekly Blog

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 20 concluded:

Carly’s eyes took him in, aware of his fine-looking suit, with the accompanying grey overcoat, black boots and hat.  She noticed how his dark hair stuck out from his hat in wild curls brushing the collar of his overcoat.  His crisp, white cravat was always a sharp contrast to his tan skin and, though it was only past noonday, his beard was showing already.  Trembling, she found his presence entirely commanding. 

Mr. Stone cleared his throat.  “What a remarkable young lady you are, Lady Blakemore, to be out riding alone.  And with such abundant zeal.” 

Startled from her reverie, just now aware of Mr. Stone’s presence again, Carly looked at him with a furrowed brow, responding a little fervently, “I enjoy the freedom I feel on horseback, do you not also?” 

Chuckling, in response, to her hasty temper, Mr. Stone looked over at Lord Huntington as if to tell him he had just sweetened the deal between them. 

But Creighton was still looking at Lady Blakemore, oblivious to Mr. Stone’s satisfaction.  He asked, a sudden worried look upon his face, “Do you not have an escort with you today, Lady Blakemore?” 

“Yes, my lord.”  Looking over her shoulder, she spotted Henry in the distance, “See, just there…” 

Relief showing upon his face immediately, he said, “Good, good.”  After making eye contact with the groomsman, exacting continued loyalty to his important task, Creighton continued, “We must ride together one morning.  I shall show you the grounds more extensively.” 

Enthusiasm glimmered in her eyes as she answered, “I would like that very much, indeed.”  Carly was excited at the prospect…or was it the hope of being alone with her master?  She reprimanded herself for such a silly thought.  As if dinner weren’t enough time alone. 

“Then it is a plan.”                                                                                                           

Continuing to look at each other, Carly nervously said, “Well, I am sure I am holding you up from some purpose, so I shall bid you farewell.”  They lifted their hats to her as she nodded and said, “Gentlemen.”  As soon as Lord Huntington let go of Clover, Carly was off like a bolt of lightning, wild hair and all. 

            Lord Hayden Carter had watched his best friend, Lord Huntington, through this entire exchange with great enthusiasm as he saw between this young girl and his long-time friend a magnetism that was incredibly palpable.  Knowing Creighton as well as he did, he also knew his friend was completely besotted.  And quite oblivious to his obsession. 

But Hayden also sensed in Lady Blakemore a confusion or fear of Creighton beyond her attraction for him.  In these brief moments, he realized this young lady was awfully innocent.  Creighton would have to tread carefully. 

            Mr. Stone’s thoughts were completely different, his attention captivated by this juicy little tidbit he had discovered under the roof of his business partner.  His head was already swimming with ideas, plans, and wishes to be satisfied. 

Grinning a lustful grin to himself, he joined in on the pleasure of watching her departing figure. 

Chapter 20s conclusion shows a perfect example of Carly's love of nature and horseback riding...and romance.

Thank you for reading with me today!  Next week begins a look into a major bad player in The Governess.  Join me again then. 

Ellise

Monday, November 7, 2011 -- The Governess -- A Twice Weekly Blog

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 20 continued:

Very handsome, as well, possibly five and thirty years old, with smooth blonde hair and black eyes that matched the color of his hat, there was something unsettling about him straight away.  His eyes burned into her as if she had nothing on.  Blushing at such a thought, she quickly dismissed these feelings, saying instead, “My Lord Carter—Mr. Stone.”  Carly tipped her head formally, “The pleasure is all mine, I assure you.” Smiling brilliantly at them, she noticed again how Mr. Stone stared openly at her.  Uncomfortable still with the way he was ogling her, she looked away to ask Lord Huntington, “Do you often ride your grounds, Lord Huntington, for I rarely see you do so?” 

“Nearly every day.  Sometimes more than once a day.” 

“You have a very grand estate.”  Smiling radiantly, Carly continued, “Which I have enjoyed very much.  Of course, today the rain halted my morning ride…but it’s wonderful out here now.” 

Nodding his agreement, Creighton continued, his own eyes not able to pry away from her, “I was only just showing Mr. Stone around the grounds, for he has been here but rarely, unlike my close friend, Lord Carter, who claims this estate as his second home.”  Breaking away his intense gaze momentarily, Creighton looked at Lord Carter with amusement.  The Marquis grinned with no apparent regret to the truth of this statement. 

Carly’s mare had not stopped pawing at the ground, and Carly tried to calm her by leaning over, her long hair falling about her, and whispering to her, “Shhh, Clover Girl…” and patting her gently on the neck, “Shhh…” she encouraged, but it was not working.  Lord Huntington’s magnificent black stallion had become excited because of the mare.  Clover was now turning around in a circle, bored with the talking.  Carly’s hair flowed freely all around her as she tried to gain control of the beast.  Lord Huntington reached out, and with one swiftly controlled movement, caught the horse’s bridle holding her still.  Clover seemed to know her master well. 

Lord Huntington was now face to face with Carly, and she could only stare back into his striking green eyes which bore into hers, aware only of his essence.  As he reached out and brushed her hair back that had tangled upon a button, she started.  “Oh…,” was all she could say, her gloved hand going to her glowing cheek. 

Lord Huntington and Lady Blakemore were completely oblivious that there were two other gentlemen sitting, waiting on them. 

Join me on Friday to finish this scene and this chapter.  Thanks for reading with me!

Ellise

Friday, November 4, 2011 -- The Governess -- A Twice Weekly Blog

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 20 continued:

Feeling invigorated by the speed, Carly also felt cleansed somehow with the spring breezes that embraced smells of flowers and fresh rain blowing in her face.  Carly was enjoying her horse and ride and did not care where she went as long as it was fast, furious and free.  Clover was kicking up clumps of muddy wet grass as she flew enjoying just as much their time together. 

Riding so quickly that her hat became loose, before she could grab it, it flew from her head into the air, but Carly was too carried away in this feeling to care.  Her hair was next to be buffeted by the breeze, and it felt glorious to have the pins picked and pulled by the wind till it was free to blow wildly behind her.  Laughing vibrantly, she shook her head and squealed an exhilarating squeal of delight at the feeling of freedom she was enjoying, oblivious to anyone around her.  Laughter spurred the horse on faster, enjoying her riding companion’s exuberance. 

Creighton and his guests watched from a distance as the lovely young lady thoroughly enjoyed the outdoors, completely unaware of them.  Noting how her hat flew off behind her, he thought he might retrieve it for her, until he saw her magnificent tresses come loose, thinking of nothing else while he watched, enraptured by her exquisite loveliness.  She was elegance and energy personified. 

Carly soon realized that she was coming upon three riders.  They were coming from a different direction but intersecting with hers.  Unenthusiastically, she slowed the reluctant horse to a trot and then came to a halt. 

Stunningly gorgeous in her cranberry-colored riding habit, her hair all about her shoulders and face and curling from the humidity, her eyes shined bright with excitement from her ride as her breathing slowed.  Clover, her beautiful chestnut mare was prancing impatiently as if she would take off again any second, their race having been cut short.  The three riders sat astride their steeds facing her now with great admiration showing upon all their faces. 

Blushing at their perusal, she looked down with reserve, until she was composed, which was difficult because of her energetic feelings of moments ago. 

“Good afternoon, Lady Blakemore.” 

Carly answered him, “Good afternoon, Lord Huntington.” 

“May I introduce you, Lady Blakemore, to two of my business partners, The Most Honourable, The Marquis of Southwickshire, Lord Hayden Carter and Mr. Melville Stone?”  Turning to look at the gentlemen, he continued, “Lady Blakemore has recently come to Huntington Manor as my,” he hesitated, correcting himself, “as the new governess.” 

They each tipped their hats to her in greeting, saying, “How do you do?” seemingly both genuinely pleased to meet her. 

The Marquis of Southwickshire had a similar build to Lord Huntington, and handsome, and kind, she thought.  He looked all of five and twenty, tops.  His dark auburn hair curled expertly under his hat, touching his brown collar.  Honey-brown eyes sparkled, staring curiously at her.  She could sense in this gentleman a certain mischief.  He smiled his boyish grin without reserve. 

Instantly, she liked him.  .    

Mr. Stone, however, was a different story.  

Hmmm...what will these gentlemen be like, I wonder?  Good, bad or simply flirts?

Thanks for reading with me today.  If you haven't already read it, you might find last Friday's post beguiling.

Ellise

Monday, October 31, 2011 -- The Governess -- A Twice Weekly Blog

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 20:

(I skipped some content about the children in Chapter 19 & in Chapter 20.  If you'd like to read it, click on the authonomy.com site to the right.)

Finally.  He had received their calling card, and had visited.  It had taken days.  But, she knew she could rely upon him to offer better, for in return, he had extended an invitation. 

Tonight! 

Oh, to be in his presence again!  What joy she would feel. 

*******

The rest of the afternoon was Carly’s, and since she had not gone for her morning ride, because of the rain, she was determined to now that it had stopped.  Quickly changing into her worn cranberry riding habit, she headed impatiently for the stables. 

            “Good afternoon, Joe.  What a lovely sunny day it is turning out to be after all.”  Her cheeks were rosy from her rush and excitement. 

Joe looked at her through crinkled eyes and said, “Well, now it is milady.”  Chuckling at making her blush, he said, “I’ll git yor ‘orse for ‘ee.”  Hollering into the stable, he said, “’Enry, git yor ‘orse ready for escortin’ Lady Blakemore, lad!” 

Carly sat down on the bench and watched as Joe prepared Clover Girl, who seemed just as excited and impatient as herself.  “I love this time of year, do you not, Joe?”  Taking in a deep breath of fresh air, she exclaimed exuberantly, “Mmmm!  I love the way everything smells after it rains.  So incredibly fresh!  Everything is so green …and the flowers are glorious!”  

Joe just smiled as she babbled on and on. 

“I do not think I know what kind of trees these are, but I do love the beautiful pink and white blossoms.  Are they apple trees, I wonder?  I do believe the horses shall be happy soon if they grow apples, do you not think so?”  Joe shook his head noting that she was always like this before a ride, giddy and rosy cheeked. 

“’Ere you are milady.  An’ where shall ‘ee be riding about today?”  Knowing full-well that the master would most likely ask this because he was about, Joe was glad that Lord Huntington always seemed to want to know her whereabouts. 

“Dear me, I do not know.  Wherever Clover Girl decides to take me, I guess.” 

“I think even Clover likes yor new name for ‘er.  Make sure ‘Enry follows you, and ‘e don’t get distracted none, milady.  Them’s orders from the masta’ hisself.  Now then, enjoy yor ride.” 

Barely hearing him, she flew off already at a gallop.  Henry had his work cut out for him this afternoon, Joe thought to himself with a chuckle.