Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 21:
Carly was alone with Mr. Stone.
From behind her, enjoying her fine curves, Mr. Stone commented, “So you have come upon hard times, eh? A beautiful creature such as yourself should not have to rely on employment to uphold care, needs, and most especially…wants.”
Turning to face him, startled at his depraved words, she insisted, “And how do you come by this information, sir, may I ask?” Fuming, she wondered if Lord Huntington had disclosed their private business arrangement to this odious man.
Tantalized by her spirit, Mr. Stone observed her through lustful eyes, “It is quite simple, really. You are an exquisitely, charming young lady in the position of governess. Completely unnecessary. What other explanation is there?”
She paced impatiently in the anteroom of this particular dining room called the Red Room, angry at herself for being early to supper. She was unaware that Mr. Stone had contrived to be early just in case he had such a private opportunity to be with her. Would anyone please come into this room and spare her his vile presence? Determined never to be early again, at least when he was present, Carly inwardly scolded Lord Huntington for not showing up promptly.
Feeling terribly aware of herself as Mr. Stone watched her endlessly from the settee, Carly thought he almost seemed to be salivating. Disgusting! Millesant had taken particular interest in her efforts tonight with Carly’s hair and gown, for she knew there were to be guests for a dinner party. Millesant always tried to do things that would please Lord Huntington, and now, her new friend, Lady Carly. Wearing a deep sapphire blue evening gown that Miss Thompson had only finished that day, she had thrilled at its beauty and the way it had made her look.
But now she was conscious of every ounce of her pale skin that showed; aware of her every curve that was enhanced; blushed for every beguiling feminine attribute that had been accentuated; for it seemed to have captured this gentleman’s awareness of her, and it was discomfiting. She had mistakenly believed that her new wardrobe would alleviate the pressure she had felt at being ogled. In her humility, she did not realize that some men would do so anyway.
Not wishing to be rude to her master’s guest, she tried holding her tongue; but he was impossible! “And what makes my situation seem ‘hard’ to you, sir? I am a lady and am being treated as such.” Looking away from Mr. Stone, yet again in disgust, she attempted interest in a painting on the wall, fidgeting nervously with her hair.
“Is that so?” Mumbling under his breath, he whispered, “Much to my amazement,” wondering how Lord Huntington was managing to keep his hands off this slip of a thing. “Many an eligible bachelor would sweep you off your feet if given half a chance, I daresay. I myself…am very eligible.”
Fists tightened at her sides, Carly turned, asking, “And is this a proposal of marriage, then? Shall I ask my employer’s approval,” she fumed.
Mr. Stone only chuckled at her feistiness, his black eyes twinkling. Licking his lips, as if anticipating a sweet treat, he said, “You have great spirit, my lady, well worth the challenge.”
“I guarantee you will be unsuccessful if you see me as nothing more than a challenge, sir!”
“We shall see, my lady, we shall see.”
His boldness sickened her.
Continuing his shameless scrutiny, he began, “I usually get my way…”
Odious man! Carly is mortified.
Join me on Monday for more of this scene from The Governess.
Ellise
