by Arlene Lam
“I’ve no intentions of talking about Alice when we can be talking about your wife. As a matter of fact I believe a visit is long overdue. That being said, I believe tonight would be fine, I will excuse us all and we can reconvene at Bradford manor around six tonight.”
“You should bring Alice.”
“I will not.” Nathan sputtered. “I wouldn’t want her to be subjected to your idiotic ideas, besides she is preparing a thesis.”
Rising from the table Jordan tossed a couple coins down right as the barmaid was coming back. “Nothing else for you sir?”
“No.” Jordan gave her a wink and devilish smile that nearly caused the girl to topple over a chair as she started to retreat and then came back.
“Are you sure? No charge; courtesy of the house.”
“No thank you, though it’s appreciated.”
Hanging her head down the girl whispered. “Well if you change your mind love, you know where to find me, anything you might want would be my pleasure to provide.” She finished saucily batting long lashes before disappearing into the many faces of the pub.
“I don’t think I need to declare who the true winner is today.” Jordan gloated.
*
It was amazing that she could be so lazy. Never had she lay in bed until noon and risen to find herself still tired. Stifling a yawn Amelia stretched out like a cat before kicking off the heavy cover and swinging her legs out so that her feet met the plush carpet. She wasn’t sure she would ever get used to her new life.
Heading over toward her vanity she picked up the heavy velvet and satin black robe pulling it on she set to the task of taming her thick mane every crinkly curl was sticking out each and every way. After a few minutes she managed to have a mass of soft waves and deciding that was as good as it would get stood to sort through the dresser for something suitable to wear. There was a calico frock of vibrant jade, it reminded her of home, it was definitely not the fashion here in Europe. she’d yet to wear it as with most of her dresses of late, it tied right below her breast bone instead of cinching at the waist to accommodate her condition but as Amelia let her eyes float over all the divine dresses she’d yet to be able to wear she found herself craving the day she could show them off to Jordan.
At the thought of her husband she glanced at the large clock in the corner. He’d been gone since morning and it was nearly three. She was beginning to miss him. Sure when they slept at night the way he always pressed himself to her back making her sweat could be annoying but when she thought on it, it was also sweet. It was also a little irritating that he always insisted on holding her hand as they walked up the stairs or down but he was just being caring. It was actually charming.
She was having a hard time getting to the last three buttons at her back, but refused to call for assistance. It was so foreign, even when Margaret assisted her. Taking in a deep breath she held it a moment while hurriedly fastening the rest of her dress and released it in a great sigh.
Looking at the white heeled shoes Amelia gave a shudder. She’d been going around for days without wearing a pair, and she still refused to put them on today and torture her already swollen feet.
A kick from within followed by the loud growl of her stomach made her laugh and prompted her to leave the room. She loved the English muffins Marla their cook made and knew that there would be a bevy of them awaiting her arrival in the dining room.
She often invited the staff to join her for breakfast, Jordon usually being long gone by the time she rose, even when she was up early. Most of them adamantly refused but she would have none of that. If they could cook and clean for them they darn well could eat and enjoy their labor as well.
Marla was the first to concede then Anson the gardener. Though his appearances were still rare as he was not a live in staff member. The rest soon followed suit and if not present at breakfast they were at lunch. Even Jordan would make it his business to show his face at least once a week. An action which first sent all the staff scattering. Jordan laughed at this for what seemed an hour while Amelia rounded them all up.
The house was so large and could be so quiet at times. She was anxious for the day it would be filled with the cooing of her child. Making her way down the stairs she laughed as Helmsley seeing her descending hurried to her side and took her hand in his own assisting her down.
Amelia couldn’t help the deep chuckles that erupted from her. “You too?” She managed between giggles.
“My lady, I must ensure your safety.”
“You’re all so absurd. I can’t wait to see you in the last month.” Calming a little she gave him a warm smile and patted his hand. “I’ve missed our daily lunch I must apologize.”
Shaking his head Helmsley gave his mistress a quizzical look. He’d worked for kind employers before. But Amelia Bradford was the sweetest woman he’d ever had the pleasure to meet or serve. “We missed your presence greatly Mrs. Bradford, but we all understand your absence.”
“I will be there tomorrow, I promise. I love our talks.” Stopping in the foyer Amelia let her eyes dart down a hall toward Jordan’s study. “Has Jordan returned?”
“Yes, Mrs. Bradford he’s outside in the stables, he wanted to leave word that you will be having guests tonight.”
“Company?” Margaret and Jasper were hardly guests, they were family. Unless it was Johanna, yet she was a close friend. “Did he say whom.”
“No Mrs. Bradford he did not.”
“I’d like it very much if one day you’d call me Amelia and I could call you David.”
“One day Mrs. Bradford, one day.” Helmsley gave her a smile, bowed and took his leave.
Looking down to her bare feet she chanced a look to make sure Helmsley was out of sight before daring to dash to the door and make her way to the stable barefoot. Seeing that he’d all but disappeared she made her escape and covered a squeal as her feet made contact at first with the rough coble of the walkway and then the damp softness of the grass carpet. She’d have to walk all the way around to reach the back of house which was not such a short jaunt but as her wet toes sunk into the grass she found herself enjoying the feel and slowed her pace. The house really was a marvel. The size alone was impressive. The garden was her favorite treasure, she could spend hours just admiring its beauty.
The stable was filled with all of Jordan’s prized thoroughbreds, but Colossus as everyone knew was his favorite. As she came over the hill she could see him walking the great beast back to his stall. She could tell he had spotted her too as he handed the reins over to Travis the trainer and turned to walk in her direction.
“What are you doing out here without anything on your feet?” Jordan had nearly closed the gap between them but still had to nearly yell to ensure she heard him.
“Where have you been all day.” She chose to avoid the question.
“Sweetheart you can’t go around in the cold air without shoes or as much as a shawl.”
“It’s not cold at all. Did you have a nice ride?”
“Yes, but do not change the subject. Give me peace of mind and promise never to come out here like this again.”
Embracing him in a tight hug she nodded into his chest. “I hear I’m to be expecting guests tonight?”
“An old friend of mine Nathan, Jasper and no doubt Margaret as well.”
“Then I will have to change.”
“Why? You’re beautiful.” Lifting her up in his arms Jordan headed toward the side entrance of their home.
“Is this really necessary?”
“No but I enjoy it.”
At that Amelia curled her arms around his neck. “I have that dark blue dress with the black stripes. I can wear that though I’ll need some help getting it on.”
“Whatever you wear will be fine. You’re not looking to leave me are you?”
“Of course, that’s why I must dress to astound.”
“That’s not funny.” Shifting her weight so that he could pull open the door Jordan set her upon her fee
t safely but unceremoniously.
Ignoring his slight she took in his appearance fully. “You are downright handsome Mr. Bradford. I don’t believe I’ll be absconding with another after all.”
“And you wouldn’t dare if you knew what was good for you.” Jordan joked kissing her cheek. “You should be lying down. You’re only a few weeks away you need your rest Princess.”
“I’ve been lying down all day. Come have something to eat with me. I’m starved.” “You’ve not eaten?”
“I’ve been up not nearly an hour.” She informed him before he began a lecture.
“I need to change.”
“I can wait.”
“No, go ahead I’ll be down shortly.”
“You’re sure?”
“I am.” Jordan watched with a smile as she made her way to the dining room delighting in the sway of her hips and the swell of her waist. Her time was getting closer; every day he could feel his anticipation increase.
Amelia insisted that they were going to have a boy and while he’d love to have a son to carry on his name, he had to admit he wanted a girl. A girl he could spoil rotten, but like her mother wouldn’t take any of it for granted and was sweet and beautiful.
He needed to change; he’d ridden Colossus hard and taken out all his stress by doing so. However it left him a bit drained and his back damp with sweat. If not for the others in his employ he might just walk around in nothing else but his trousers.
Pulling the offensive material off his back as he ascended the stairs Jordan couldn’t help grinning. He was happy; there was no denying the reason either. Every day he felt the same he would wake up and the weight he carried for so many years was gone. Replaced instead by a warmth and joy so fulfilling and wonderful it left him awestruck. He never could have imagined that his happiness would lie in the smile of his wife or the laughter of his young sister. His two girls, they were his world.
The thought of his sister prompted him to take a detour down to the east wing where her room lie directly across from Amelia’s private quarters. She would be sleeping as her Governess’s schedule required. Amelia believed Adelaide to be a tad strict when it came to her schedule and more often than naught allowed Georgia to create her own much to their teacher’s distress. However Adelaide was a brilliant instructor and had a caring heart. Georgia seemed to think so as well when it came right down to it.
Cracking open the door it was with some surprise he found that she actually was asleep dark chestnut hair falling across her sweet face. Jordon took the opportunity to quickly, albeit quietly, sneak in and brush the soft tresses from her face placing a kiss to her cheek. “I love you minx,” He whispered.
“I love you too Jordan” The child mumbled still half asleep.
Rising Jordan retreated back to the hall not wishing to wake her. Georgia needed her sleep she was a spinning top when awake.
Not forgetting the task at hand Jordan continued on to his room. Dipping a washcloth into the water basin he rung it out and then ran it across the back of his neck. The cool water feeling refreshing. Repeating the process he washed his face, before peeling of his sweaty shirt shifting down to the top of his back promising himself that tonight he would soak in a warm bath. Jordan found a crisp tan tunic and matching russet brown trousers, and with nimble fingers buttoned it up leaving off his jacket and tie. It was getting warm.
He had instructed the cook to prepare a dinner catered to Nathan’s taste as the man seemed to eat nothing other than lamb, though he was not altogether sure how Amelia would like it. Some of the more classic English cuisine had downright defeated her. She enjoyed the breads and cheeses, so he was sure to ask that there be an abundance of those as well as Yorkshire pudding, steamed potatoes and vegetables which she craved almost every other day.
Tugging off his heavy riding boots Jordan replaced them with a lighter black dress shoe. With the last addition he started out of his room toward the dining room. No doubt his wife would still be there talking and eating with the staff. Snacking on crumpets and milk, a favorite treat.
Next week he planned to surprise her with a trip to Hyde Park then to the Crystal Palace to see the exhibitions. Minnie one of the maids had nearly ruined the surprise asking if she was excited about the outing yesterday morning.
Amelia luckily still groggy hadn’t heard her as she erected the tray before her in bed. He hoped she didn’t slip again; he had not had a chance to reiterate that it was a surprise and Minnie no doubt would be right next to her mistress in the dining room sharing a bite as was becoming their tradition.
Upon arriving in the great room, he found his wife alone picking at a croissant and glass of water in her other hand. He was pleased to find her so; chances were Minnie had not had a chance to unwittingly spoil his surprise for Amelia.
“You know I’m all for teas and puddings but Jordan I’m dying for some good old home cooking. I’d give my left arm for some hotcakes, eggs and bacon.”
“Surely we could get you some eggs, bacon and pancakes without the loss of an arm.”
“Can you Jordan! Honestly if I have to shovel another piece of English muffin in my mouth I’m going to just die.”
“Don’t do that, whatever would I do without you?” Jordan laughed outright at the glare she gave him. “You said you loved English muffins.”
“I use to but after the thousandth one I can’t stomach another, and you’d be just fine I’m sure Jordan.” Amelia grumbled rising from her chair. “And another thing, I can’t for the life of me figure out why you would want to introduce me to your friends when I’m like this.”
Jordan could feel another emotional tirade coming on and stilled himself for the storm. So instead of responding he just closed the gap between them and embraced her in a firm hug. “What will we name our girl when she gets here?”
Amelia smiled. “We are no sooner having a girl than the sky is green, I’m carrying a boy and I want to call him Colby.”
It was becoming an age old dispute. Jordan wanted a girl that he could spoil rotten and Amelia wanted a boy to do the same but the real quarrel was in the names “Now why would I name a son of mine Colby? If you bear me a boy he will surely be another Jordan Bradford.”
“Well I’m telling you it is a boy and we will name him Colby Bradford and in time if we are blessed with a girl we will call her Jordana.”
“If it pleases you Amelia you know we will.” He conceded. “Seeing how you always get your way.”
“I learned it from you.” Patting his chest Amelia pushed away from him. “Come upstairs please, and help me change.”
“Of course.” Grinning Jordan followed behind Amelia. Reaching the stairs he took her hand in his while falling behind to ensure her safe ascent.
“Well aren’t we eager to get me out of my clothes”
“When am I not? Ever since I laid eyes on you I’ve plotted for nothing else.” Jordan let her pull open the door to her bedroom that adjoined his, all while her other hand was at her back trying to unfasten the top hook. Noting her struggle he gingerly brushed her hand away and kicking the door closed behind him began the task of freeing each wooden hook, exposing the smooth skin beneath. Unable to resist he kissed each spot he saw. “Maybe I should send word that we are indisposed.”
“You have me all to yourself every day Jordan and every night.
“It’s not nearly enough time to adore you as I would like.” Jordan halted his pursuit however and continued his duties. “Do not be nervous tonight, remember you are in the company of friends.”
“I won’t be, I know that your friends are just that, you worry about me too much.”
His response was a grunt. Jordan helped her pull over the striped dress and pulled the stays as comfortable as possible before lacing the back completely. Her hair was coming undone and the luscious waves were now grasping at the nape of her neck. It was very becoming.
“What do you think?”
“You already know what I think.” Kissing the insi
de of her palm Jordan took a seat at the edge of their bed, motioning for her to sit on his lap. “You really do make me happy did you know that?”
“I had a feeling, but I adore hearing it out loud.”
“Princess, are you happy…with me?”
“That is the silliest thing you’ve ever asked me. You know that I am, and one day you’re going to believe it.”
“Maybe I just adore hearing you say it.”
“Then let me say it. I’m happy with you, I’m delighted with you, I’m living my dreams with you and I’m in love with you.” Capturing his lips with her own Amelia thought that it was impossible to get used to the rush of emotions that flowed through her every time they kissed.
“You’re an enchantress.”
Amelia kept silent but held him to her all the more. She knew Jordan loved her, felt it down inside but hearing it would be like heaven. Laying her head on his shoulder she released a breath she didn’t know she’d been holding in mild irritation at again being denied those words.
There was a firm knock at their door that could be heard from their position. Retrieving his pocket watch Jordan checked the time, it was only fifteen after five. “Fools can’t even tell time.” He mumbled into Amelia’s hair. “Finish what you need. I’ll keep them entertained until you are ready.”
“I won’t be long. I wouldn’t dream of keeping Lord Crombly waiting, never.” Amelia grinned.
Jordan was already heading toward the foyer when her heard the voice of his butler inquiring upon the name of their guest. “Let them in Helmsley what is wrong with you?” He inquired.
“Mr. Miles Grady Sir.” Helmsley gave the man room to get by him and then shut the door. He regarded him with little curiosity before taking his leave.
“Evening Cap’n.” Grady fished it his pocket for the gold locket he’d repaired. He had just wanted to drop the thing off but the butler was being damn nosy. “I jus come to give this here to Amelia.” Finally grasping the metal piece Grady was able to produce it and handed it over to Mr. Bradford. The man had a constant scowl Miles was sure and right now he was certain he was the cause. “I got to get going. Like I said jus wanted to drop it of no harm intended.” He knew the man was jealous and didn’t want to cause any strife for Amelia. “I’ll be going now.” He would have like to seen Amelia but perhaps another time. Retreating toward the door he stopped mid stride. “I forgot I made this. Jus a little something fo the new baby.” He’d been clutching the tiny wooden horse the whole time he couldn’t believe he’d almost let his slip his mind. “I hope yall enjoy it.” Grady handed it to the man who had yet to say a word and it appeared that was not about to change. He thought he might drop it but he held fast and examined it.
