The Governess on Amazon in many countries

If you like romance, The Governess has it and to spare.  Plus, I like the intrigue that comes with a good novel.  Secrets, plots, schemes, murder, you name it, The Governess has it all! 

 

Check out these Amazon sites from several countries!  Click here!

 

Thanks for checking out my work!  It's been a long, hard process, but I'm learning to enjoy sharing it.  I've kept it to myself for so long thinking that it wasn't worth sharing, but thanks to you, my readers, I'm finding that there are many like-minded readers out there who enjoy the same kinds of adventures. 

 

Happy Reading!

Ellise

Wednesday, October 19, 2011 -- New Release: MINI-MOVIE Book Trailer

UPDATE:

MINI-MOVIE Book Trailer for The Governess --

Turn up the Volume to hear this one!

http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=171190209636310


Let me know what you think?

Thanks,

Ellise

Monday, October 17, 2011 -- The Governess -- A Twice Weekly Blog

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 18 continued:

Finally, the big day had come.  Jonathon was sitting in his room with Lady Blakemore and Elspeth. 

Carly still regretted that Lord Huntington was not at home today.  But, no matter.  This was an important event, hoping that it would show Jonathon that his father had been involved at least to some degree.  

            Carly held up a small black vest, “This you will wear over the white ruffled shirt.”  She laid it down on his bed and held up a red handkerchief, “This will be worn around your head.”  Carly noted that Jonathon’s eyes were getting brighter with excitement.  With the last piece, his mouth fell wide open.  She could see that he now knew what he was dressing to be.  “And this is your eye patch,” she giggled at his excitement. 

Jonathon fingered the costume and looked up at Carly in wonder.  “I am to be a pirate?” 

            “Do you think it shall be fun?” 

            He could only nod vigorously.  

            “And last, but not least, here is your buckle and sword.” 

            Jonathon gasped in astonished excitement, carefully fingering this fine gear.  Smiling brilliantly, he quickly nodded his head.  “I will dress straight away!” 

            “Let me know if you shall need any help.  Then I will explain further.  Elspeth and I shall be waiting in my room.” 

            “Thank you,” he nodded. 

            Taking Elspeth’s hand, Carly left the room so he could have privacy.  “Let’s pick out your favorite ribbons that we shall work into your hair, Elspeth.” 

            Elspeth gasped in surprised pleasure, “Your ribbons!  Oh!  I just love your ribbons!” 

            Closing the door behind them, they went over to Carly’s dressing table and opened the drawer.  “Which ones do you think you shall like, darling?” 

            Elspeth’s eyes glittered as if she had found her own treasure chest filled with fine jewels.  “I cannot make up my mind, Miss Blakemore.” 

            “Shall we match to your favorite dresses?” 

            Elspeth looked adoringly up to her governess and said, “You always know best.”  Carly laughed, hugging this sweet, darling child. 

            As they waited for Jonathon, they carefully selected the most delicate, feminine ribbons in Carly’s collection.  Carly had known Elspeth would pick from these finest, since she had quickly learned so much of this little girl’s taste and style already showing itself at such a young age. 

            A knock came to the nursery door, followed by the debonair Jonathon.  He held the belt around his waist but apparently needed help doing it up. 

            “Oh dear Jonathon!  You look so charming.  Does he not look charming, Elspeth?” 

            “Yes, quite handsome I would say.” 

            After helping him buckle his sword just right, Carly exclaimed, “Goodness!  I almost forgot the crowning piece.  We cannot have that now, can we?” 

With Jonathon’s eyes wide, he slowly shook his head in agreement, astonished that there could be more. 

With an excited laugh, Carly stood and went into her dressing room opening her wardrobe and reaching into the bottom.  She pulled from it a large red hatbox. 

Setting the hatbox upon her bed, she motioned for him to come forward, both children’s eyes bulging with excitement.  As Jonathon carefully opened the hatbox, he removed the paper and gazed down to see a captain’s hat with a large red feather plume stuck in the black strap.  Both children gasped their surprise.  Ever so gently, as if it was a priceless fortune, Jonathon gathered the hat out of the special paper and placed it upon his red handkerchief-covered head.  His grin was extraordinarily beautiful, all that Carly had hoped for.  What an adventure he was to have today. 

            Suddenly, Jonathon, with a giggle, took his hat from his head and swished it through the air as he gave the ladies a suave bow.  Placing it upon his head, he quickly hugged Carly, giving her a most precious gift before his treasure hunt had even begun. 

Hugging him to her and laughing with both children, she said, “Oh, Jonathon.  I hope this means that you are happy…that you are excited?” 

            “Oh yes, Miss Blakemore!  You have shocked me greatly with your surprise.  Thank you most kindly.” 

            “But this is just the beginning, Jonathon.” 

            He let go of her as he looked up into her face with greater astonishment.  “There’s… there’s more?” 

            Elspeth jumped up and down clapping her hands, “Oh, Johnny!  You are going to be so excited!  So, so excited!” 

            “Shall we tell him then, Elspeth?” 

            “Oh yes, please!” 

            Squatting down in front of both children, Carly was thrilled to say, “Would you care to go on a real treasure hunt, Jonathon?”  Elspeth squealed, jumping and clapping again, thrilled for her brother. 

            “Miss Blakemore!  Really?” 

Jonathon’s expression told Carly all that she had hoped to see; all that she had prayed for all these weeks of preparation. 

“I shall be glad to!”  As Jonathon, in a grown-up gentlemanly way, helped Miss Blakemore to stand, he hugged her again, his hat dislodging from his head.  He quickly picked it up as a solitary tear of happiness trickled down Carly’s cheek. 

She quickly wiped it away so the children would not see. 

            “Come.  Let us sit down for a moment.”  Carly guided the children to the couch so she could show Jonathon his first clue.  With a contagious grin, she explained, “I have placed clues about the house for you to find.” 

Jonathon’s expression was a myriad of emotions.

“They are numbered for you to see if you are in the right order for the next clue.  If it is alright with you, Jonathon, Elspeth and I would like to accompany you on your search.” 

            “That would be most welcome, my lady.”   He bowed over her hand, and kissed it lightly, and both Elspeth and Carly laughed in surprise at his chivalry, his uncharacteristic teasing. 

            “Oh, Jonathon.  You are such a dear.  Now then, shall you read your first clue and see if you can figure it out?  It will lead you to your next clue.” 

            “This will be so fun!” Elspeth cried. 

            Jonathon nodded his head excitedly in agreement as he read, “It says: 

Chocolate and cream is my taste,

To where should I make haste?

(If you wish to read the Treasure Hunt's conclusion, please log on to the link at the right, authonomy.com, and go to Chapter 18 to finish reading.)

Will the love Carly already holds for the children pay off?  Will her good deeds see happiness?  Thanks for reading with me today.

Ellise

Friday, October 14, 2011 -- The Governess -- A Twice Weekly Blog

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 18:

After his busy journey to the city, Creighton always enjoyed a break.  But tea with this most beautiful of companions was proving to be uncomfortable.  Why, he asked himself.  She was stunning, clever, and a darling companion.  And her escort was entertaining enough.  However… 

Creighton pushed his unpleasant thoughts aside, intent upon the day ahead.  He had business to attend to—the reason for being in London—and he and the Marquis of Southwickshire must be off.  Very soon. 

And very soon again, he would see her in Dunfordshire.  Of course, he would make time for her, he said.  She was, after all, one of his closest neighbors.  They had been friends for over a decade, in fact. 

How very demanding society can be, Creighton thought.  Still, he must be attentive.  His mother would expect it.  He would not disappoint such a devoted parent. 

As this lady daintily sipped her tea, her thoughts, however, were much more eagerly engaged. 

All her carefully laid plans must come to fruition. 

This time…

*******

After all her plans!  He was gone!  To London of all places! 

Fraught with frustration and gloom, she was inconsolable.  Even her companion could not soothe her. 

When would he return?  When would they be invited over?  She must call again immediately upon his return. 

Why was he always so elusive? 

Short and simple today -- but with two characters that will have great impact upon The Governess and it's sequel.  Find out more about these characters.  And join me on Monday for a treasure hunt!

Ellise

Monday, October 10, 2011 -- The Governess -- A Twice Weekly Blog

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 17 concluded:

Often, evening meals together could prove quite troublesome.  Tonight was no exception.  And what was this letter that was so ‘all important’ that he read it at the dining room table? 

After a heated discussion about George and Ethel, Lord Huntington and Lady Blakemore could not help but continue their quarrel. 

            “I cannot believe that you would miss this special day for Jonathon.  After all our planning and organizing!” 

            “Your planning.  Your organizing,” Creighton simply said. 

“How insensitive you can be.” Carly fumed.  She could sense that she was pushing him more than she ought, but she could not help herself.  “They need your involvement in their lives, especially Jonathon.  Don’t you realize?  Why else would I go to such great lengths to include you in this process?  Do you not see what I am trying to accomplish by this?  He needs your attention, my lord.” 

Darkness covered his face, inch by inch.  “I will not be told by my governess how I shall conduct myself with my children.” 

“Well, someone has to tell you.  All your servants are too afraid of you to tell you the truth as it needs to be said.”  Carly heard a distinct sniff come from the corner where a footman stood. 

However, Creighton’s face grew darker by the second.  “You are treading on thin ice again, my dear girl.  I have important business in London which cannot wait for a child’s treasure hunt.” 

“You are insufferable!”  Carly stabbed a piece of meat, inserting it impatiently into her mouth, and chewed upon it vigorously. 

“And will be more so if you continue this mantra.”  They ate in silence for several minutes.  Creighton wished Carly would choke on her meat, and just as suddenly cursed himself. 

Carly had similar thoughts and prayed to calm her emotions.  She must be positive, must praise him for what had been accomplished to the benefit of the children.  Some good had taken place, and she must remember that.  She sighed deeply. 

Repentantly, she said as she placed her fork down, “My lord, I must thank you, at least, for all that you have allowed.”  Her expression was humble.  “The results have exceeded my expectations of what I thought you would agree to.  May I please take this time to thank you, at least for that?” 

Surprised at her cooling temper, at kind words, he said, “You are most welcome.”  She nodded her head, picking up her fork again.  But as she continued to eat in apparent frustration, he watched her.  He was confused.  He still found it surprising that she would have such strong feelings for his children after such short a duration. 

But not when he would think of her character. 

She was the most unselfish, giving, wholesome person he had ever known in his entire life.  These actions towards his children would only be natural to her, he thought to himself.  Their best interest was her all-consuming desire, he could see, and yet she disciplined them, expected much from them.  He was continually shocked at this young lady’s accomplishments. 

Annoyed with the intensity of his growing attraction for her, he changed the subject rather abruptly.  “Have you had any further troubling incidents, my lady, of which you have not informed me of?”  Her expression changed to one of surprised urgency and worry, her fork frozen in mid air.  Regret for bringing up this deplorable subject consumed him.  Her fear, her worry ate at his numbness, melting his heart but a little.  Yet, it must be asked.  Creighton was most determined to keep this young girl safe, especially while in his home. 

“I…I have not, my lord.”  Carly could eat no more. 

“Good.  You will keep me up-to-date if you have any problems again, will you not?” 

Dispassionately nodding her head, she answered, “Yes, my lord.  Of course.”  Staring off into space, she suddenly shivered. 

Creighton could only grow angrier at watching her worry.  Someone did her ill.  Why?  Her discomfort was distressing to him.  Oh how he wished he could alleviate all her fears.  He must speak with his head staff.  They had better watch over her while he was gone.  Yet, had he done any good while present?  His irritation grew.  As he crankily stood, he said rather gruffly, “Very well, if you will please, excuse me.  I have much to do to prepare for my journey tomorrow.  Goodnight, Lady Blakemore, and…good luck tomorrow as well.”  With a brief nod, he left the dining room. 

After Lord Huntington and the footmen left Carly, she sat broodingly.  Why is he always angry at me, she wondered.  I could swear he was concerned about me for a moment, yet he is so moody.  Scooting herself away from the table, she noticed the master’s letter had been unconsciously left upon the table.  Temptation rarely caught Carly’s attention, yet her fingers itched to pick up the note.  She could not help but be curious about it.  Invariably, she tried to ignore it.  But what was so imperative that he should go to London now? 

She must know. 

Carly stood.  Against her better judgment, she snatched up the letter quickly reading a woman’s delicate hand, expressing her joy at seeing Lord Huntington soon. 

Was that it?  A woman? 

Embarrassed at her own curiosity and angry at her master’s priorities, Carly threw it back upon the table fuming and stalked furiously from the dining room. 

Stubborn people.  Watch with me as more become involved in this story on Friday.  Thanks!
Ellise

Monday, October 3, 2011 -- The Governess -- A Twice Weekly Blog

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 17 continued:

Instantly feeling defensive, Carly questioned, “Off limits?  But why?” 

“Must you always ask questions?” he fumed. 

As he looked intently at her, she became anxious in his presence.  Those stupid rumors!  Surely he could not be a dangerous person?  A man of low morals? 

“I am glad, at least, that you did bring Henry.”                   

It could not be him, the person responsible for bad things happening, for he always seemed concerned for their welfare.  “And George, sir.  Did you not see George, the footman, as well?  Both he and Henry have been diligently keeping watch over us today as we walked the grounds.” 

“Diligently?”  He spoke quick, hot words.  “I have not seen George in all the time I have been searching for you.  But I assure you, I will speak with him about such diligence!” 

Instantly feeling as if she had been disloyal to George, she said, “Surely, he must be about?” 

“He is not!”  Abruptly ending this topic, he cleared his throat, and went over to look out the window. 

Not feeling as if she could leave his presence, she continued her train of thought, “I do not understand how a cottage that is not falling apart or dangerous in any way could be off limits, my lord.” 

Hearing pain and anger in his voice, she was surprised as he coolly said, “This is a place of lies and treachery.  I do not owe you any explanation.” 

“I apologize.  I did not mean to pry into your private affairs, my lord.  I only…” 

Whipping around, he faced her, yelling, “My private affairs?  You mean my wife’s private affairs!  This is where she would come and…and have her private affairs!  Right under my very nose!”  He loomed over her, pointing in her face, “There!  Now you know my anguish, my suffering…my shame!”  Having said this, he exploded out of the cottage and left them all. 

Carly was dumbfounded! 

Never in her life would she have guessed the nature of his marriage or that his wife had been unfaithful to him! 

How could anyone be untrue to such a man? 

Now she began to understand more fully why this man had such anger in his heart; his pain, his doubts, and his unwillingness to give his heart completely. 

She remembered the sad poetry.  It fit his wife’s infidelity, and the subsequent torture he must have experienced.  And these poor children were suffering because of their father’s pain.  They each were living with this horrible wound each and every day. 

Sitting down, she was numb with disbelief of what he had just revealed to her.  She had not meant to intrude.  Did everyone know of this?  Was she the only one in the dark?  So many secrets. 

It was all making sense now.  There did seem to be animosity among some of the servants concerning the mistress, and Lord Huntington never talked about her.  Even the servants, who normally thrived upon gossip, seemed intent upon protecting this master of theirs from this pain-filled topic. 

Elspeth came running in, “Miss Blakemore, I am hungry.  Can I please have something good to eat?” 

“It is about time for tea, is it not?” Carly said absently. 

Having no idea, Elspeth simply answered, “Yes.” 

“Well, let’s be on our way back to the house then, shall we?” 

And with that, all three walked silently, glumly back to the house. 

An affair?  Surely the wounds have been cut deep. 
Read more about this on Friday.
Ellise

Friday, September 30, 2011 -- The Governess -- A Twice Weekly Blog

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 17 continued:

Henry nervously shrugged his shoulders saying, “He disappeared a while ago when he saw…” Suddenly hesitating, Henry’s neck turned mottled, splotchy-red colors. 

            “When he saw what?”  Creighton was concerned at the young groomsman’s tentativeness. 

            “He saw one of the chambermaids beating rugs, my lord,” was all he could offer. 

            Understanding dawned upon Creighton.  He was aware that Henry watched his color rise in anger.  Nodding in appreciation of his obedience, Creighton said, “You are wise to be truthful with me always, Henry.  Thank you.” 

            “My lord,” nodding his head, Henry took a deep breath.  He began chewing a piece of grass again, probably too vigorously. 

            Turning to the cottage once more, Creighton was suddenly assaulted by old memories.  This place had a history that…well…he was getting furious just thinking about it. 

            He physically calmed himself before stepping forward, knocking upon the door.  Instantly, it got quiet inside before Lady Blakemore softly answered, “Come in.” 

            Lord Huntington stepped inside the cottage, and all three sets of eyes went wide, ready for the reprimand.  But all he could do was chuckle when he saw the sight before him.  Both Jonathon and Elspeth had a feather tucked into their hair holding an especially beautiful prisoner hostage.  Lady Blakemore sat tied to her chair.  Laughing quietly, he said, “Please, do not let me stop you.  Continue, by all means.” 

            Sitting down in a chair opposite of where they were playing in front of the fireplace, his stature filling the space, they only stared at him.  They could not seem to play anymore. 

He insisted, “Well—I interrupted you.  How is this going to end?  I wish to see.”  Jonathon and Elspeth looked at each other as if they did not know this man who was asking them to perform for him, but timidly they turned around to Miss Blakemore for guidance. 

Embarrassed herself, she was determined to conquer these feelings and make this an opportunity for father and children to spend time together.  Forcing her own nervousness back, she smiled encouragingly at both of them, and began wailing, “Please…no!  What will my poor children do if you take me prisoner?  Oh, help me, someone!  Please help me!” 

            Quickly catching up in the excitement, Elspeth exclaimed, “You must come quietly or we bonk your head with hatchet…” she looked over at her father with a coy smile.  Smiling back, he nodded his approval. 

            Carly said, “Yes, yes.  I will be silent.” 

            Carly and Elspeth looked expectantly at Jonathon as if it was his turn.  But Jonathon said quietly, “I…I do not wish to play anymore.”  Turning around, he went outside, shoulders sagging.  Elspeth followed him outdoors and sat down next to him on a fallen trunk, rubbing his back, taking the quills from both their hair. 

Lady Blakemore looked dreadfully apologetic towards Lord Huntington, “I am sorry my lord.  I think he was only being shy.” 

Nodding his head, he asked, “Would you like some help?  You look a little tied up at the moment.” 

Smiling in trepidation at his joke, she nodded in agreement.  “Thank you.” 

As he untied her, she said, “I hope you do not mind us coming here.  We were merely outdoors having our botany lessons when we came upon this darling cottage.  The children wanted to play house, and we lost track of time, we were having so much fun.” 

The anger that stirred quickly in his gut at this sensitive topic was too quick for him to smother, knowing even as he spoke that he did not mean to be so harsh, for how could she possibly know his reasons for feeling this way.  “I do mind, Lady Blakemore, very much!”  Now standing directly in front of her, he continued, “This cottage is off limits!” 

Off-limit cottages, rug-beating chambermaids...what does this have to do with making Lord Huntington angry?

Read with me on Monday!
Ellise

Friday, September 23, 2011 -- The Governess -- A Twice Weekly Blog

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 16 continued and finished:

As for Lord Huntington, he had mistakenly refused new bedding upon Lady Blakemore’s bed, thinking it silly for his one night stay, but now could not sleep because of it.  Her gentle fragrance filled his nostrils with a heady sensation that enveloped him with feelings he tried best to ignore. 

But sleep would not come. 

Finally, he stalked from the room to seek relief in the library. 

Frustration mounted as he thought about what Lady Blakemore had experienced tonight.  She had been quite upset, and he had felt responsible for it!  He did not wish to see her so unhappy again.  It had troubled him greatly.  To the dark room, he stated, “I cannot help myself.” 

This incident would be investigated at all cost.  Someone was up to no good, and he would not sleep restfully until this mystery was solved. 

                               

*******

That uncomfortable sensation of being watched grew as Carly walked the grounds.  Figuring that it was the Study window, she looked. 

No one. 

Searching the windows, she gazed up towards the attics and shivered all over upon seeing a distinct figure. 

She was being watched.                                                                   

But not by Lord Huntington. 

Curiosity took hold.  She must visit the attics. 

            As she mounted the final staircase to her destination, she felt an eeriness creep over her.  Freezing mid-step, Carly worried over the strange sensation that had stopped her.  Out of a dark corner of the staircase, Carly sensed again that she was being watched. 

Horrified, she wondered what to do? 

Go back?  But then she would not know who it was watching her. 

But did she really want to know? 

Petrified, she wondered, indeed, if it was a ghost.  It was almost as if the darkness had hands reaching out to her throat, cutting short her breath.  After an insanely tense moment, she laughed at herself for her ridiculousness.  She gingerly took another step forward only to let out a terrified scream. 

Ethel stood disturbingly silent in the darkness, watching Carly. 

            Trying to catch her breath, Carly demanded, “What…what are you doing?” 

            Ethel stood staring.  It was thoughtless.  Unhuman.  In a monotone whisper, the indistinct figure said, “I might ask you the same thing.” 

            Indignant, Carly insisted, “What is your purpose in these dark attics?  Surely you have not been asked to clean them alone…and without light?” 

            “Such a know-it-all!  So ‘aughty!”  Ethel’s expression was not kind. 

Carly would not be bullied.  “Why do you always look at me from the windows when I am walking the grounds?” 

            Snorting with disgust, Ethel said, “You think I ‘ave nothin’ betta to do than watch the likes o’ you?  You must think you are mighty special, milady.”  Her sneer showed an ugly side to this girl, her mocking curtsey demonstrating her dislike. 

            “No.  Just annoyed with your rudeness.”  Carly’s brow crinkled with newfound insight.  “I wonder if you are the one who has tried scaring me in the night,” Carly reasoned aloud.  Her limbs froze when she thought of the bloodied, shattered mirror.  Might she be in danger?  Here in the dark?  Away from anyone else in the house? 

A wicked smile spread upon the servant’s face at the governess’s fear.  Her insight. 

            Watchful, resentful, especially if her assumptions were correct, Carly asked, “Are you guilty?” 

            They stood staring at each other in the dark stairwell, questions unanswered. 

            With disturbing composure, Ethel stated, “I ‘ave work to be done.  Please excuse me.” 

Carly leaned against the wall, unwilling to be close to the servant girl as she stepped down and around her. 

Ethel only laughed, the sound bouncing off the walls in her plunge into the darkness.  Unkind thoughts and feelings roiled around in her breast. 

Carly was disturbed. 

Perfumed sheets and scary stairwells?  The best kind of romance/suspense.  I hope you enjoy today's excerpts!

Ellise

To My Readers:

Hello out there in cyberspace!  Please let me tell you about my goal. 

I would like to see my manuscript, The Governess, published.  I am looking for willing publishers and/or agents.  One way that I am seeking this opportunity is by having uploaded my manuscript onto HarperCollins Publishers website for 'unpublished authors' called authonomy.com.  I am looking for support, from readers like you, for the difficult journey to the Editor’s Desk on authonomy.com.  The top five manuscripts each month receive a free review by HarperCollins editors.  Currently, because of registered voters on the site voting for me, I am at #15.  I'm very grateful for the support I have received.  If you would like to help my journey to the top, please follow the instructions below.  I could really use the help, for there is quite an abundance of healthy competition, and this month is coming to a close very quickly.

Here's how you can help.  Sign on to authonomy.com and do the following:

1. Register.  By registering, you can participate. 
2. Bookshelf.  By placing my manuscript, The Governess, on your authonomy bookshelf, you have voted, which will rise my book rank and get my manuscript more positive attention. 
3. Star rate.  By star rating my manuscript, it will rise in rank also.
4. Comment.  Comments also get me noticed.

Because many publishing houses and agents look on authonomy.com for new manuscripts, my chances of getting noticed are greater with this help.  I can also be found on my website:  elliseweaver.weebly.com.  God bless you for your kindness!

All my best to your dreams too,
Ellise

Please go to:  http://www.authonomy.com/books/31440/the-governess/

If you have any questions, please contact me by going to my email address: elliseweaver@hotmail.com.  You also may ask questions on authonomy once you are registered.  Thanks!

Monday, September 19, 2011 -- The Governess -- A Twice Weekly Blog

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 16:

As Carly sat down to brush through her hair that night, she looked up into her mirror startled, squelching a sudden scream.  Instantly, she dropped her brush, her hands going to her face in horror.  Her countenance was cut into disfigured fragments as she stared back at her shattered, bloodied, broken mirror.  The scarlet globules dripped down the disjointed pieces, terrifying Carly at the deliberateness of such a diabolical act.  Running from her room in terror, Carly pounded upon Lord Huntington’s door. 

            He had heard her scream. 

            Upon opening his door to find her standing there in nothing but her nightgown, Creighton immediately saw the panic upon her face, increasing his own.  Unnerved, he asked, “What is wrong?” 

            “My…my mirror…” was all she could sob, pointing towards her bedroom. 

            Stalking down the hallway in nothing but his pajama bottoms, he entered her room to see what she was distressed about.  As he drew near her dressing table, he could see the shattered glass, the blood dripping down its fragments.  Confused by such hateful evil in his household, he was at once livid. 

Why would someone be so purposely cruel to Lady Blakemore? 

Turning, he could see that she would not enter her room, but only stood at the doorway, distraught at what this might mean.  Her discomfort was distressing.  Striding back to her, he pulled her to him.  Her hands seared his flesh as she pressed her hands against his chest in awkwardness, choking back more tears from the spectacle of his nakedness. 

“Forgive me, my lady.”  Fighting for something to say or do, he said surprisingly calmly, “You must sleep in the chambers next door tonight.  I will ring for someone to clean up this mess, and all will be well here for you by tomorrow.”  Nodding her head in agreement, he pulled the bell pull, retrieved her robe, and then escorted her next door. 

            Opening the door to the spare room, he shuddered at the coldness of the closed up space.  Turning to her again, he said, “No, this will not do.  It is much too cold in here for you.  Please…I offer you my warm room for the night, and I will stay in yours.”  Holding his hand up to quiet her protests, he said, “I do not mean to upset you in any way, my lady, but I do mean to protect you and to make certain you are comfortable.” 

Mrs. Thompson quickly came down the hallway in her robe and nightcap, and asked, “My lord?” 

“Thank you, Mrs. Thompson.  Something rather disturbing has occurred tonight.  Please have my room made ready for Lady Blakemore.  She will be staying there to keep her safe.” 

Mrs. Thompson could see by his expression that he was holding back in front of Lady Blakemore.  She knew he would explain to her when they were alone.  “Yes, my lord.  It shall be done immediately.”  She left to attend to her duties, with the help of Ethel and Doris, who, in passing, eyed Carly strangely. 

She shivered. 

“You are cold.  Here, let us get you a blanket or something.” 

“Thank you,” was all Carly could seem to say. 

“Come.  Let us get you more comfortable while you wait.”  Lord Huntington led Carly to the sitting area of his chambers near the fire and made her comfortable on a couch with the promised blanket.  As he belted his robe, he said, “I will return shortly.”  He seemed bent upon a mission, his scowl ever-present upon his brow as he left. 

Carly shuddered again.  As she looked around his room, she observed the simple masculinity she found.  Dark wood etched with exquisite millwork was complimented by navy and burgundy accents.  The furniture was heavy and straightforward in its designs.  Snuggling deeper into her blanket, she observed the women remaking the bed, stacking fresh towels, refilling hot water, and stoking the fire.  The chambermaids kept looking at Carly oddly, almost smugly, which was beginning to annoy her. 

As the two maids finished and were shooed from the room, Carly received a whiff of the master’s scent from the removed bedding, breathing deeply.  Contentedly, she sighed, feeling comforted because of it.  She would, indeed, feel safer in his rooms tonight. 

Mrs. Thompson looked over the room one last time and asked, “Is there anything else you might need from your room that I can get for you, my lady?” 

“Yes, actually, Mrs. Thompson.  Thank you.  Just my essentials, please.” 

“Very good.  I will see to it, my lady, and will bring to you some hot chocolate while I am at it.” 

“Thank you for all your kindness, Mrs. Thompson, but it is not necessary.” 

“No trouble at all.  You might find it soothing.” 

“Thank you.  You are so kind.”  She smiled at the sympathetic housekeeper, finding her smile returned.  It was a godsend. 

As Carly snuggled deep into the covers of the master’s bed, she felt strange.  His scent was still present throughout the room, and it invaded her solitude over and over, but was not unwelcome.  In fact, it continued to calm her and reassure her as nothing ever had. 

Without the hot chocolate, she drifted into an exhausted slumber with the master still upon her mind. 

It's always nice to have a hero save you from certain misery.  Creighton's kindness and urgency in taking care of Carly is sweet, for she could not bear to deal with the bloodied, broken mirror in her room that someone purposely plotted. 

Thanks for reading with me today.  Read more on Friday. 

Thanks,
Ellise

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

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 15 continued:

(Last week's post has more to it that I have not posted.  To read the rest, follow my link on this page to authonomy.com to finish.)

Carly and the children were laughing and giggling as they played hide-and-seek around the house.  Lady Blakemore informed Mrs. Thompson they were taking time out from their lessons, and since it was raining outside, decided to play indoors.  They should return to their lessons after a well-deserved break.  The servants, though busy about their work, would, from time to time, give hints to Lady Blakemore’s or the children’s whereabouts when stuck and could not find each other. 

Everyone but Ethel and Doris, that is. 

Between the two of them, they did all they could to cause trouble, steering them in the wrong direction always.  Once, in such a moment, Carly was following their altered instructions and ran right into the broad chest of Lord Huntington with such force, he had to catch her to him for fear that she would tumble to the floor. 

As he gingerly held her to him, he asked, “Are you alright, my lady?” 

            “I am…quite alright, my lord.  For…forgive me for…” she looked up into his face, hesitating in her words, fascinated by his pale lips that slowly curved up into a smile.  Thoroughly embarrassed, she could not remember what to say. 

            But he continued to hold her to him, he himself fascinated with the way she felt and smelled, and asked, “You are enjoying your day?”  Only able to nod her head, he gently squeezed her arms and said, “I am glad to see it.  Now, if you will please excuse me.”  Bowing to her, he walked off in his brusque manner. 

She was left to ponder her feelings, suddenly hiccupping, covering her mouth. 

Quickly laughing, Lord Huntington said over his shoulder, “Those hiccups will give you away to the children, Lady Blakemore.” 

Mortified that he had heard, she hiccupped again.  His chuckling was heard as he continued down the corridor.  

            The children then found her, and she screeched in feigned surprise grabbing Jonathon and Elspeth to her and making them jump and giggle from being startled too.  Then she would search for them again, and the household would be disrupted by pattering feet quickly hiding. 

            Happily, the household was getting used to their days being interrupted by fun-loving giggles and exciting escapades. 

Mrs. Thompson nodded to herself as she thought; it has been too many years…too many years, indeed. 

*******

All was working out well. 

            Her companion was quite thrilled with getting away from the doldrums of home.  Shortly, they would be engaged in her services for a prolonged visit to Dunfordshire. 

She was anxious to see the handsome earl again and would be so grateful for the assistance in any way to appeal to him.  Her collaborator would do anything for her… 

Anything at all! 

A chance encounter with the master while playing hide-and-seek?  Hmmm.  Could be interesting... 

And, do you remember previous tidbits of a secret person plotting against Carly?  Here are her thoughts again.  She wants Lord Huntington to herself.

Join me on Monday for more.
Ellise