Monday, December 12, 2011 -- The Governess -- A Twice Weekly Blog

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 22 continued:

(Sorry...I forgot this part leads into the "Moonlight Kiss".)

All guests were gone, except for the sleeping Mr. Stone and Lord Carter.  Creighton and Hayden were alone in the library sharing the port. 

“She is a lovely creature, Creighton.  How did you find her, if I may ask?” 

            “You have no need of a governess, so why do you care?”  Creighton was wound tight from this evening’s meal next to Lady Margaret and Miss Amelia.  He usually left the planning of dinner parties to his mother, but the Pembrooke’s had returned home from London much earlier than expected, and Creighton’s mother had desperately wanted her son’s opinion on how her best friend was faring.  And, of course, he had promised Amelia and Felix Hansen an invitation as well. 

The constant competition for Huntington Manor sickened him.  Did they not realize he knew their intentions?  It was most outrageous!  One had been his wife’s enemy.  The other—her best friend.  Both were so different, and yet so annoyingly similar. 

            “I am only curious as to where one goes to find such an endearing young lady as this.”  Grinning with bright, honeyed eyes, Lord Carter showed that he was not intimidated in the least by his friend’s strong bearing. 

            Creighton sighed, exasperated at having to give any explanation.  “No one answered my advertisement in the surrounding area, explaining my need of a governess, which irks me still, I should say,” he added with a loud voice.  “So I took out an advertisement in Northamptonshire—far from here—and this is what I acquired,” his hand extended toward the door to the library, as if Lady Blakemore should suddenly materialize. 

            Hayden raised his eyebrows and nodded his head.  “She simply gets under your skin, does she not?”  Laughing a kindly, affectionate laugh, he interrupted Creighton’s thoughts by slapping him on the back, projecting him forward.  “I am glad to finally see it!” he bellowed excitedly.  “You have been brooding for much too long.” 

            “What on earth are you babbling about?” Creighton growled at him. 

            “I am simply saying that I know that this girl has affected you and that I am glad of it.  Oh, how the mighty fall!”  He laughed again, raising his glass of port as if toasting Creighton. 

            Creighton quickly walked over to the decanter and poured himself more drink.  “She is simply my governess, Hayden, nothing more.  And I plan to keep it that way.” 

            “Yes, yes, I see how it is.”  Creighton turned and faced Hayden, who seemed amused by this whole conversation.  “You are not even aware yet of your tender feelings for her, are you?” 

            “Tender feelings!” he shouted.  Looking at the door, he lowered his voice slightly and continued, “You do not know what you are talking about, Hayden.”  Creighton impatiently paced the room. 

            “Don’t I?” 

            Exasperated, Creighton exclaimed, “If I have feelings then they are of anger, for she infuriates me!  I have argued more with her in the short time that she has been here than I ever did with Janese in our entire marriage!  If I touch her, it is to shake her!”  Fists balling up, he shook them at Hayden as if he could show him what he had done to the poor girl.  “Do you call that tender feelings for her?  She has even slapped me across the face!”  Pointing to his left cheek, he exaggerated as if he could provide evidence of a red welt. 

Unmystified, Hayden replied, “And yet she remains here...” 

Will Lord Huntington admit to his feelings for Lady Blakemore?

Ellise

Friday, December 2, 2011 -- The Governess -- A Twice Weekly Blog

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 21 continued:

Clearing his throat, Mr. Stone wanted to ask Carly how it was possible that anyone wouldn’t warm up to her well.  Instead, he asked her, “Have you had a chance to enjoy walking in the gardens here?”  As he licked his lips, Carly shivered in revulsion.   

            As politely as she could, Carly answered, “Yes, I have walked the gardens extensively, Mr. Stone.” 

            Thinking of how he could possibly get her alone, he thought of an idea and spoke it aloud.  “You might find the maze to be of particular interest to you, if you have not yet discovered it.” 

            With great surprise, Carly eagerly looked at Lord Huntington, asking, “You have a maze on your grounds?  I did not know.”  Her eyes were luminous with pleasure. 

            “Yes.  I do.”  Lord Huntington hesitated, distracted by her contagious enthusiasm.  “I’ll…have to show it to you sometime.  It is behind the East Wing, where the ballroom is found.  I am surprised that you have not found it in all your wanderings.” 

            “No, I have not.  But I am sure the children and I could have a perfectly lovely time playing in the maze; that is, if it is allowed?”  Lord Huntington nodded his head in agreement. 

Mr. Stone could not allow his proposed opportunity to pass, and insisted, “My lady, I would be more than happy if you would do me the honor of visiting it together.” 

Sickened at the thought, Carly looked at Lord Huntington, horror clearly written upon her face.  He must have understood, for he explained, “Lady Blakemore will need my guidance through the maze, Mr. Stone, if she is to wander into it with my children.  It is quite extensive, and I would not wish for her to get lost.”  Mr. Stone only nodded his head in thwarted acknowledgement, clearly disgruntled.  He disliked, rather strongly, any attempts at being dissatisfied. 

Miss Amelia laid her hand upon Lord Huntington’s and, not too silently, whispered, “Do you remember when we got lost in the maze, Creighton, darling?  In the rain.  Wasn’t that a wonderful time?”  Lady Margaret glared at the redhead.  Lord Huntington skipped the answer altogether motioning toward Mr. Thompson to fill his glass again.  

With this sudden lull in conversation, Lady Margaret wasted no time in gaining Lord Huntington’s attention talking endlessly of town.  Prompting her cousin’s help, between Lady Margaret and Miss Mary, the ceaseless chatter dominated. 

It was during that time in which something appalling happened. 

Carly was listening to the conversation and enjoying her meal as best she could when, suddenly, she felt a hand upon her thigh pressing through the folds of her gown.

Her blood ran chill!

She nearly screamed in surprise, but caught herself just in time, instead quickly standing, bumping the table in the process, and spilling the contents of her goblet upon the white tablecloth. Her hands went to her breast to calm her breathing. Everyone was shocked by her strange behavior.

Everyone except Mr. Stone.

Mr. Stone is appalling!  Was it his hand upon her leg?  What will happen next??

Find out on Friday.

Ellise

Monday, November 28, 2011 -- The Governess -- A Twice Weekly Blog

Excerpt from The Governess  -- Chapter 21 continued:

Lord Huntington interjected, “Lady Blakemore comes from Northamptonshire.” 

Lord Carter, quickly catching onto his friend’s agenda, enthusiastically asked, “Exactly where are you from in Northamptonshire, Lady Blakemore?” 

“Well,” she looked suddenly embarrassed at the attention, but loved speaking of home.  “A little place called Harlestone.  Have you heard of it?” 

            “No, I cannot say that I have.” 

            “Yes.  A fine village, I will grant you,” Mr. Hansen interjected, eyeing the beautiful governess admiringly. 

            “You know of it, sir?” 

            “Only passing through, but friendly enough, I should think.”  His benign smile wasn’t that thrilling a prospect, Carly thought. 

            Lord Carter continued his questions as Miss Hansen glared at her brother, his obvious interest in the governess a frustration to her.  She would remind him of their goal. 

“It is beautiful there this time of year, all the blossoms coming out and trees vibrantly green, just like here.  I have enjoyed Lord Huntington’s grounds at length.” 

 “Like you were today, I am sure,” Lord Carter responded.  She smiled prettily at him in agreement, and he wondered at this striking, attractive creature.  Surely Creighton had not known she was such a beauty or he would never have engaged her services.  Understanding became clearer by the way Creighton was acting, for he could sense that it was a test for him to be in her presence, much like this afternoon.  His smile in his friend’s direction said as much, which Lord Huntington only scowled at him in response.  She just might prove to be Creighton’s unraveling, he thought with a wry smile. 

Lady Margaret took advantage of the silence to express to Carly her feelings of superiority.  “So.  You are the governess?”  Menacing eyes examined Carly inch-by-careful-inch.  She was successful in her slight.  Upon seeing her victory, she affectionately turned to Lord Huntington saying, “You are always kind to the hired help, dearest.”  Creighton visibly turned red, but not from embarrassment. 

Lord Carter was surprised that his friend had no retort.  By golly, he is besotted!

Carly, all of grace and charm, quickly stuck out her determined chin as she readied for conflict in which she must defend herself.  “Lord Huntington’s children are quite wonderful, my lady,” she simply said. 

“And you have been here…long?” asked Miss Murtaugh, equally menacing. 

“Not very,” Carly answered. 

Miss Amelia put forth her two pence worth.  “Tending children all day.  I cannot imagine being a glorified nanny.  It would be exhausting, I tell you!  My nanny always looked so tired and haggard.” 

“No wonder,” her brother snorted, and was quickly reprimanded by a death stare.  One would think her red hair warning enough.  It seemed that her reminder was well-rewarded with his efficient return to his meal. 

Lord Carter interrupted, “So tell us; what adventures have you been on with Creighton’s little angels, my only claimed—although unrelated—nephew and niece?” 

            Carly’s nervousness changed quickly with this favorite subject.  Clapping her hands together, she smiled a most brilliant, beautiful smile and even laughed a singsong laugh.  This response surprised everyone as she, again, obtained the attention of all.  “We enjoy Huntington Manor’s many splendors indoor and out, my lord, every day.  Picnics, explorations, strolls, botany lessons.  It truly has been an adventure here.  I have enjoyed myself immensely.  And they—well, they have simply captured my heart, Lord Carter.  Jonathon is now warming up to me quite well, and little Elspeth is such a joy.” 

            “I see.”  Looking over at Creighton, he raised his eyebrows in a question directed at him.  Creighton looked back at him and scowled as if to say, hold your tongue.       

Quite the dinner party.  Such enjoyable guests.  Will Carly yet find friends?

Continue reading from this chapter on Friday.  :)

Ellise

Friday, November 25, 2011 -- The Governess -- A Twice Weekly Blog

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 21 continued:

Carly had not been to a dinner party in such a long time.  She was sure she should enjoy herself, for everything was fabulous.  Yet, she was reservedly excited.  Surely it was a lot to ask of her to sit beside the leering Mr. Stone.  He seemed to have reserved his manners for mixed company.  She would not soon forget.  Carly secreted away an impish thought that she would influence Mr. Thompson next time on the place settings.  She smiled at her hidden, wicked thoughts. 

As everyone started chatting around the table, the butler oversaw as footmen served the first course.  Delicious, creamy soup, fish, and a variety of vegetables were served in addition to the lovely meats, fruits, and artichokes displayed around the table. 

“Oh, dear Creighton!  You have outdone yourself again.  You always do for us though.”  Lady Margaret cooed at Lord Huntington as her chin rested flirtingly upon her gloved hand trying to be as close to him as possible. 

Lord Huntington seemed preoccupied, yet gracious as he said, “Always for the Pembrookes,” in his deep resonating voice.  

“And what of the Hansen’s, my naughty lord,” Miss Amelia Hansen flirted on his other side. 

Lord Huntington uncomfortably cleared his throat and nodded to Miss Amelia, saying, “Why of course.  How could I ever exclude you, Amelia?” 

Nodding her approval, she looked maliciously towards Lady Margaret, their competition ripe with envy.  The air sizzled with intensity. 

Creighton must control this situation, he thought.  And why had he sat between these two anyway?  Had Thompson conspired against him?  Or mother?  And where was she when he needed her expert skills at manipulating decorum? 

Gaining the attention of Lady Madeline, he said, “Mother wished for me to give you an hello, and that she shall be here soon.  She misses you terribly.” 

Snorting impatiently, Lord Pembrooke exclaimed, “It has only been a fortnight since they saw each other, my lord.  Hardly time to miss each other.” 

Ignoring her husband’s comment, Lady Madeline said, “I miss her too, dear.  She is such a good friend, always so concerned about me.”  Lady Madeline coughed into her delicate lace handkerchief, a deep body-wrenching cough.  As it subsided, she self-consciously looked back at Lord Huntington to say, “I am doing much better, though, you must tell her.” 

As they began the meal, Lord Huntington continued, “You have not been overdoing it I pray?  Mother and I are worried that you do too much.” 

“No, dear.  Do not worry so.” 

Lord Pembrooke sighed heavily obviously impatient with this constant subject. 

Mr. Stone put in, “It must be consoling to have such a devoted friend as Lady Huntington.” 

“Why, yes!  She has always been my best nurse, Mr. Stone.”  Lady Madeline beamed back at him. 

Carly noticed the dark circles under her eyes and wondered at her health conditions.  She visibly had endured much suffering, but seemed to have born it well.  Lord Carter poured wine for Lady Madeline as she began coughing again.  

Quickly, Miss Hansen got up from her seat to attend to Lady Madeline.  She seemed positively strained over her condition.  “Lady Madeline, is there anything I can do for you?” 

Lady Madeline silently shook her head before she drank from the goblet that Miss Hansen held for her. 

 “I daresay you get all the attention, mother dear.”  Lady Margaret smiled at her mother, but her eyes were ice cold. 

Carly instantly wished that this young lady would, instead, show compassion for the obvious discomfort her mother endured.  Then, unexpectedly, she noticed the cold eyes upon herself. 

What is wrong with Lady Margaret Pembrooke?  So uppity and snobbish!

Read more from this segment on Monday.  : )

Ellise

Monday, November 21, 2011 -- The Governess -- A Twice Weekly Blog

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