by Vikki Vaught
Not bothering to acknowledge her comment because it would not do any good, Melody rose from her chair. “If I’m going to make it to the orphanage on time, I need to leave. I shall see you this afternoon when I return.”
As she turned to leave, Aunt Miriam called after her, “Make sure you take your maid. This is not the country where you have more freedom. You must be circumspect, because you do not want to give anyone a reason to think poorly of you.”
“Of course, I understand what is expected of me while in town.” She hurried to her room and retrieved her pelisse, then departed for the orphanage. Since it was such a fine morning, she chose to walk. When she arrived at St. Mark’s, she waved to her friend, Susan Wilton, and joined her.
After giving her a hug, Susan said, “I saw you dancing with a very handsome gentleman last night. How did you meet him? What’s his name? Oh, I’m so envious.”
She laughed. “Slow down. His name’s Lord Henry. His father is the Duke of Sanderford. Lady Walton introduced us last night, but I actually met him earlier on the terrace. He appears to be a pleasant gentleman. I’m going driving with him this afternoon.”
Her friend clapped her hands. “Oh, how exciting. I would die for the chance to meet someone like him. Do you think he has a friend?”
Melody sighed at her friend’s exuberance. “You sound as bad as my aunt. She already has me walking down the aisle, and all because an attractive man danced with me and asked to go for a drive. I’m sure it shan’t amount to anything, so let us refrain from talking about it anymore, all right?”
They entered the orphanage and began helping the children. Soon she forgot about Lord Henry and had a pleasant morning. Before she realized, it was time to leave. She hugged her friend as they said good-bye and agreed to meet again in two days.
The bookseller was on the way to the modiste, so she stopped in and purchased the book she wanted. At the dressmakers, she picked up her new emerald riding habit. Green was her best color, because it brought out the green flecks in her eyes. She could not wait to wear it on her morning rides.
When she arrived at the house, she rushed upstairs and changed into her sprigged muslin, daffodil yellow gown, one of her favorites. She hoped Lord Henry would think she looked pretty in it. Millie fixed her hair, weaving a matching ribbon through the braid wrapped around her head.
As she turned to leave her room, she glanced at the beautiful yellow roses. Her heart took flight at an alarming rate. Would Lord Henry look at her the same way he had the night before, or would he realize she was too short and plump to be of interest to him? She heard a knock on the front door, and the footman came to tell her her caller waited in the drawing room.
Once she arrived downstairs, she stopped at the door to take a deep breath, hoping to slow her heartbeat. She did not want to appear too anxious, so she calmly opened the door and entered the room at a sedate pace. Lord Henry stood by the mantel. Their eyes met, and the odd sensation in the pit of her stomach returned.
He bowed as she curtsied. “Are you ready for our drive? I thought we could go to Hyde Park this afternoon, if that’s agreeable to you?”
Looking up at him, she met his startling blue-eyed gaze. “That sounds delightful, my lord. It’s a lovely spring day, and for a change, there’s not a cloud in the sky.”
Lord Henry turned to her aunt. “We shall leave for the park, ma’am. I will return your niece within the hour.” He offered his arm, then escorted her out to his curricle.
Once seated in the vehicle, Lord Henry flicked the reins and merged into traffic. Dozens of carriages filled the road, so he had to give his full attention to driving. Melody looked around and watched all the people walking along the street. Vendors were hawking their wares, and little urchins ran up to carriages trying to earn a coin or two. She would miss all the hustle and bustle of London when she returned to Lincolnshire.
She sighed. Since she had met Lord Henry, she was not as anxious to return home as she had been. She surreptitiously glanced at him and noticed his strong, masculine hands holding the reins. She imagined them touching her, and her face grew warm. Why she would think of something so scandalous, she could not imagine.
By the time they arrived at the park, the traffic had thinned. Lord Henry turned to her. “You look lovely today, even lovelier than last night. Did you have a pleasant morning?”
She nodded. “I did. I volunteer at St. Mark’s Orphanage, so I spent part of my morning there. I want to thank you for the bouquet…yellow roses are my favorite.”
“They reminded me of your smile, all sunny and bright. I’m glad you like them.” As he continued to gaze at her, he inquired, “Have you always lived in Lincolnshire?”
“Yes, until I came to London,” she replied. “I had no idea there would be so many entertainments available.”
He laughed. “London does have quite a few amusements, does it not? Recently, I’ve enjoyed several of them with my friends. How much longer will you be in town?”
“I’m supposed to leave in three weeks.” She sighed. “I shall miss it terribly. Of course, I look forward to seeing my parents again. You told me last night you had recently returned from the continent.”
“I did.” His face turned somber. “I’m so relieved we have finally defeated Bonaparte. War is brutal, and I lost several close friends over there, men I had fought and served with for years.”
“That must have been difficult,” she commiserated. “I’m glad the conflict is finally behind us and that England prevailed. How long have you been in the Army?”
“My father bought my commission six years ago when I turned eighteen. A military career was always a dream of mine, and since I’m the spare, I was able to pursue it. With the war over, I will help my brother with some of the ducal holdings, once I sell out.” He pulled the curricle to a halt to let some pedestrians cross the path. “I would like to spend time with you before you leave for Lincolnshire. May I see you again?”
She cast her eyes downward. “If it pleases you.” Then she raised her head and looked up at him and became lost in his mesmerizing eyes. Could she be falling in love? Good Lord, that thought frightened her to death. She’d heard others talking about love at first sight, but she never expected it to happen to her.
He flicked the reins and set the horses in motion. The rest of the hour passed quickly, and all too soon they were in front of her aunt’s townhouse. He helped her from his curricle, and when he touched her hand, her fingers tingled. Lord Henry’s eyes deepened to a darker blue. He looked so intense, it sent chills up her spine. Once she reached the ground, he reluctantly released her hand.
Turning to her, he said, “If it is convenient, I would like to pick you up at ten tomorrow so we can go riding. I would be happy to procure a horse for you, if you need one.”
“I would love to go,” she replied. “My aunt has several horses, so that is not necessary.”
Once Lord Henry escorted her inside and took his leave, her aunt started firing questions at her. Melody removed her lace gloves. “We had a delightful drive, and he wants to spend time with me over the next few weeks. I told him I would enjoy seeing him again.”
Miriam pulled her into her arms and hugged her. “How simply marvelous. I knew he was interested, and now he plans to court you. I’m so pleased.”
Melody twisted her hands. “How can I be sure my feelings are real when everything is happening so quickly? I think he’s serious in his intent, but I worry. I don’t want to be hurt.”
Her aunt gently touched her arm. “Sometimes, it only takes a moment to fall in love. That is how it happened for me with your uncle, and we had twenty-five wonderful years together. I have missed him every day since his death ten years ago. Although I have had opportunities to remarry, there will never be anyone who can take your uncle’s place in my heart.”
“I remember how happy you were,” she wistfully replied. “I would like to have that kind of love.”
Reaching over, Miriam patted he
r on the shoulder. “All I can tell you, sometimes you have to be brave and take a chance on love. See your young man as often as possible, and let nature take its course. All right, darling? I’m sure you shall be fine. I can tell by the way he looks at you this is going to be an enduring attachment.”
CHAPTER TWO
Henry spent time with Miss Canterfield-Smyth every day over the next week. His feelings grew stronger each time they were together. Weather permitting, they either took a drive or went for a ride in the park each day. In the evening, they saw each other at one of the parties still being held around town.
While attending Lady Winston’s soiree a week later, they went out to the terrace for relief from the sweltering heat of the ballroom. As they walked toward the balustrade, Henry ached to pull her into his arms and kiss her senseless. Of course, he did not want to do anything to unsettle her.
The strong attraction he felt for her had him fighting to keep it under control. He found this disconcerting. Although his head told him to leave her alone, his heart would not let him.
It had not been in his plans to meet someone and develop feelings for her. When he had returned to England, he’d wanted to spend time with his friends, enjoying the pleasures of London, nothing more.
As they stood side by side, looking out at the garden, he glanced over at her and his breath caught. Her luminous skin glowed in the moonlight. His loins tightened, but he forced his desire back. After all, Miss Canterfield-Smyth was an innocent. “I’m glad you came tonight. I missed our drive today. Unfortunately, I had business at the war office.”
“I understand your work must come first.” He watched as she gazed at the sky. “Is it not beautiful tonight? Oh look, there’s a shooting star. I must make a wish.”
As she closed her eyes, he gazed at her angelic face. “You’re so beautiful. Your golden locks are shimmering in the moonlight. You have the loveliest hair.” He cleared his throat. “We’ve known each other long enough to use our given names when we are alone. May I call you Melody?”
“I would like that…Henry.”
Hearing his name on her lips caused desire to ignite. He could no longer resist the temptation to steal a kiss. Her eyes widened when his gaze rested on her luscious mouth. Leaning down, he gently stroked his lips across hers. They were soft as silk, and he deepened the kiss, yet still kept it gentle. From her untutored response, it might be the first one she had received. Knowing he needed to end this, but not wanting to, he groaned, then lifted his lips from hers.
He watched as she slowly opened her eyes and sweetly smiled at him. While gazing into her entrancing eyes, his voice deepened. “I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have kissed you, but I couldn’t resist the temptation. I hold you in high esteem. Please forgive my forwardness.”
Taking her hand, he raised it to his lips. Her hand trembled as he kissed her gloved fingers. His heart beat faster than one of his father’s prize-winning horses racing to the finish line. He could never remember feeling such strong desire before.
Melody softly whispered, “I’m not offended. I enjoyed it. I…I’ve never been kissed before.”
Marveling at her naiveté, he felt honored she had allowed him to be the first to touch her delectable lips. Her plump lower lip had enticed him beyond endurance, and knowing no other man had kissed her before caused his pulse to race.
When he remembered anyone could come out of the French doors and see them, he murmured, “As much as I enjoyed our kiss, we need to return to the ballroom before anyone notices us missing.”
Walking back inside, he sensed something remarkable had happened, and it unsettled him. Could he be falling in love?
This was something he needed to look at once he was alone. He looked around and noticed his best friend walking toward them. “Let me introduce you to my friend.”
Weston stopped in front of him. “Montgomery. Who’s this lovely young lady with you? Would you please introduce us?”
He grinned at his friend. “This is Miss Canterfield-Smyth.” Looking over at Melody, he added, “Let me introduce you to Lord Weston.”
Weston elegantly bowed. “Montgomery has spoken of you on several occasions. It’s a pleasure to meet you.”
Melody curtsied. “I’m pleased to make your acquaintance. Lord Henry has mentioned you as well. He speaks highly of you.”
Henry offered her his arm. “Let me take you back to your aunt. Weston and I are leaving to go meet some of our friends. I look forward to seeing you tomorrow afternoon. I shall pick you up at four so we can take our ride in the park.” Seeing her aunt, he added, “Ah, here she is now.”
Lady Helton joined them and smiled at his friend. “Good evening, Lord Weston. It’s nice to see you again. How is your mother? I haven’t seen her this season.”
“Her health has been poor, so she decided to remain at our country estate this year,” he explained.
“Please tell her I asked after her. I have always enjoyed her company. I hope she feels better soon.” Lady Helton turned to her niece. “My dear, it’s time for us to depart. We promised to stop by Lady Bradford’s musicale.”
“Certainly, Aunt, I’m ready.” Melody smiled at him. “I look forward to our ride tomorrow.” Glancing at his friend, she added, “I enjoyed meeting you, my lord.”
After Melody and her aunt strolled away, he turned to his friend. “Is she not as lovely as I told you?”
Weston raised his brow. “She is certainly attractive, and she seems friendly, if a little shy. I can see why you’re so besotted with her.”
Henry grinned. “I would not call myself besotted, however, I do enjoy her company.” Then he clapped his friend on the shoulder. “Shall we depart? It’s time to meet our friends at White’s.”
* * * *
The following day, Henry picked her up, and they went for a ride along Rotten Row in Hyde Park. Once they were on the path, he suggested, “Why not have a race to that tree over there? I will even give you a head start.” Laughing, she took off, leaving him in her dust. When he finally caught up with her, he declared, “You have greatly improved. Have you been practicing?”
“Almost every morning, and I just beat you, so what do you think of that?”
He chuckled. “I guess I better watch out. Next time, I shan’t give you a head start.”
She giggled, and they continued their ride at a slower pace. “I’m so pleased we are becoming such good friends. In many ways, I feel like I’ve known you much longer than a fortnight.”
As they approached a wooded area of the park, he pulled his mount to a halt. “I agree. I’m certainly glad I attended Lady Walton’s ball. Shall we walk a bit?”
“That would be delightful.”
After Henry helped her dismount, he offered her his arm, and they walked along the path as their horses trailed behind them. The sunlight filtered through the leaves on the trees. A huge sense of contentment filled her being. Glancing at Henry, her heartbeat accelerated. His eyes darkened to a deep indigo blue. She slowed, hoping he would steal a kiss.
Taking her lead, he stopped and pulled her into his arms and lowered his head, then softly touched his lips to hers. Sweet vibrations ran through her, and she sighed. His tongue slid into her mouth. Startled, a rush of pleasure surged down her spine, and she tentatively met his tongue with her own. Pulling her closer, he deepened their kiss. Her arms found their way around his neck, and she ran her fingers through his thick, red-gold curls, feeling the silky texture.
With a slight groan, he released her. “We better stop before someone comes this way. Your kisses are sweeter than candy, but I would never want to involve you in scandal.”
“I wanted you to kiss me. Your kisses are very enticing, but you’re right, it would cause a terrible scandal if anyone saw us.” Joy filled her soul as they continued their ride and returned to her aunt’s home. She began to hope Henry might be falling in love with her, as she had with him.
The next day, he picked her up for the picnic he had promised he
r. When they arrived in Hyde Park, Henry picked out a spot next to the Serpentine and spread out a blanket. He had gone to Gunter’s for their luncheon, so there were shaved ham sandwiches and several kinds of fruit with a jug of lemonade. After filling a plate, he handed it to her and proceeded to fill his with all the food that remained.
A few minutes later, he set his plate beside him and leaned back on his hands. “I’m glad we have such fair weather. After the rain last night, I feared we would need to forgo this. We haven’t discussed your family. What does your father do?”
Folding her napkin, she laid it on the blanket. “He’s the vicar of our parish.”
He smiled. “Ah, I’m not surprised. Your sweet nature gives it away. Do you have any brothers or sisters?”
She shook her head. “I’m an only child. My parents had me when they were well into their thirties.”
“It must have been lonely for you,” he commiserated.
“Not really.” Smiling, fond memories flooded her mind. “I have several friends I’ve known all my life. You’ve met Susan. I have another close friend who lives next to me. Brandon and I used to go fishing, and he taught me how to skip rocks. He recently married, and his wife is expecting at Christmas. I’m looking forward to seeing them when I return home. What about you?”
“You already know I have a brother. Nelson and I are the best of friends, which is surprising, since he’s several years older. I have two sisters as well. Helen’s seventeen, and Kathryn is thirteen. Our parents rarely spent any time with us while we were growing up, especially my father. He spent a good deal of his time in London. My mother also enjoys the season each year.”
“It must have been difficult having your parents gone much of the time. At least you had your brother and sisters.”
“I’m thankful for that.” He grinned. “Don’t feel too bad for us. We found plenty of ways to entertain ourselves. Sanderford Park was a great place to grow up, with lots of trees to climb and a big lake for swimming. From what you’ve shared, I envy you, because you’re obviously close to your parents.”
