When Love Sneaks In (The Montgomery Family & Friends Book 2)

by Vikki Vaught

Helen continued to improve, and within a few days she was up and about. She had even gained the weight she’d lost and barely suffered from morning sickness. Every time she thought of the babe, a warm glow came over her. She thanked God daily for keeping her little one safe.

  CHAPTER 19

  October 1820

  Matthew enjoyed spending time with Sanderford. He found him highly intelligent and much more down-to-earth than he would have expected. The duke wanted him to come to London and participate in trying to stop the King’s petition for divorce from passing in the Lords.

  A few days after Helen awakened, her brother brought up the subject of the hearings again. “The sooner this business with the King can be concluded, the better for the country. It’s embarrassing to have so many intimate details revealed about the King and Queen. The nation needs this finished.”

  “I wholeheartedly agree,” he replied. “Even in this out of the way area, it’s all anyone wants to discuss.”

  “The masses are outraged over the King’s behavior.” The duke stalked to the window. “They believe the Queen’s character is being decimated, when the King’s behavior is far more atrocious than Her Highness’s. The defense has brought up the Fitzherbert incident, hoping that by alluding to the King’s infidelities, the prosecution would withdraw the petition.”

  Matthew watched him pace from the window to his desk. This situation had Sanderford greatly troubled. The man certainly took his duty seriously. He had to admire him for his determination and passion.

  The duke stopped pacing. “I heard from Weston, and he says Brougham gave an impassioned speech, an extraordinary argument and oratory, better than anyone has heard in years. I pray that will help our cause.”

  He joined Sanderford at the window. “I read that in the papers. I’m interested in knowing more. Please explain.”

  The duke met his gaze. “Brougham has presented Colonel Alessandro Olivieri and Carlo Vassalli, disputing the witnesses for the prosecution. They confirmed the Queen’s behavior, stating it was beyond reproach. There was not intimacy with Bartolomeo Pergami, the head servant of her household. The defense also brought in two witnesses who swore under oath that the prosecution’s witnesses were paid forty francs and given free room and board to testify. The debacle keeps getting worse, and it needs to end now. Come to London; take your seat. We need every vote to defeat this bill.”

  He’d planned to take his seat in the spring anyway; a few months earlier would not create undue hardship. “I want to help, but my only concern is Helen. I’m afraid a trip to London will overtax her, and I don’t want her to have a relapse.”

  “I can understand your concern,” he replied, “but, Helen has always been extremely healthy, and the doctor assured you she’s recovered. My sister loves London. Many of the ton are in town for the proceedings, so there are parties every night.”

  No doubt his wife would enjoy going. “All right. It will be good for her to be around family. I know she’s missed all of you terribly. I have everything running smoothly here now that I have an excellent steward. We shall leave on Monday.”

  Sanderford clapped him on the back. “The sooner the better for me. In fact, we’re leaving tomorrow. I’ll tell Melody you’re coming. She’ll be pleased.”

  Helen’s brother and his wife departed the following morning. Helen told him she was thrilled they were going to London. After some discussion, she convinced him to bring the children, neither of them wanted to leave them for two months.

  Wells organized the carriages and had them waiting to depart Monday morning. By eight o’clock, Matthew tapped on the ceiling, and they were off. Christina and Catherine spent most of the trip gazing out the window and asking how much longer, but overall, they behaved amazingly well the entire trip.

  When the carriages pulled to a stop in front of Sanderford House, several footmen came out to unload their conveyance. The butler turned them over to the housekeeper, and the woman took them to their suite so they could freshen up from their journey. The children went with Melody, who had greeted them upon their arrival.

  The duke had invited them to stay with them, and they would until Matthew’s townhouse was made ready. While he appreciated her brother’s hospitality, he’d sent word to his agent to prepare his townhouse. Of course, it was years since anyone had lived there, so work would need to be done to make inhabitable.

  Helen expressed surprise when he told her he owned a townhouse in town, but, of course, she was excited over the opportunity to redecorate it. His wife was truly amazing. Nothing seemed to disturb her. Of course, she might change her mind when she saw how much work was needed to renovate the place.

  Everyone met in the drawing room at seven. Shortly after he and Helen arrived, the butler announced dinner. The food was splendid, and the conversation flowed freely around the table.

  He was surprised at the informality in such a great house, but that suited him perfectly. Clearly, Helen was overjoyed to be with her family again. After everyone finished eating, Melody led the ladies out of the dining room.

  Matthew remained in the dining room with his brother-in-law while they enjoyed their port and cigars. “So, Collingswood. Can you attend the House of Lords with me tomorrow? I want to introduce you to some of our peers who are working with me on this issue of the King’s divorce proceedings. You’ve already met Weston, and you may know others from your time in town this past spring.”

  He relaxed in his chair, enjoying the libations. Sanderford certainly had excellent taste in cigars and port. “I’m excited to take my seat. My father was very active and I plan to be as well, now that Collingswood Hall is in order. What time do you usually go?”

  Henry poured another glass of port. “I need to arrive by two. Most mornings I frequent Gentleman Jackson’s gym and enjoy a few rounds with my friends. We usually have luncheon at White’s afterward. Would you like to accompany me there as well?”

  He leaned forward. “I did some boxing at Cambridge and enjoyed it. What time should I be ready?”

  “I’m meeting Weston at ten. Hayden, another acquaintance, should be there as well. You can go a few rounds with him. Come, let us join the ladies.”

  * * * *

  Helen awoke the next morning to find Matthew gone. He’d been so tender the previous night when they’d made love. It was the first time since her accident. Perhaps he was falling in love with her. Her feelings had definitely grown stronger. She found sleeping in his arms each night so comforting, and she loved when he’d stroked her belly and talked to their baby.

  Sally arrived with her water, interrupting her musings, and soon, she was ready to meet the day. She entered the breakfast room and filled her plate with bacon, sausage, eggs, and toast. Apparently, her appetite had increased. She was eating for two now.

  As she was taking her seat, Kathryn entered, filled a plate and sat beside her, then hugged her. “I’m so happy for you. I know having a child was your primary reason for marrying.”

  “Thank you, Kathryn, it was.” She grinned. “And, I’m madly in love with my husband’s daughters. They’re adorable little girls.”

  “Your stepdaughters are enchanting and very bright. I peeked in on them this morning before I came down. They appear to be getting along well with Mary Elizabeth and Mary’s daughter, Angela. I want to sketch them while you’re here, so I can do their portrait.”

  Helen clasped her hands to her breasts. “That would be wonderful. My husband would love a portrait, so yes, do as many sketches as you need. Could you have it done by the end of January? His birthday is in February.”

  Kathryn nodded her agreement. “I can’t wait to get started.”

  She’d finished her meal, and the footman removed her plate. “I’m so pleased Christina and Catherine are getting along with Mary Elizabeth and Angela. When I first met the girls, they didn’t want anything to do with me, but we’ve grown close throughout the summer. We haven’t told them I’m carrying yet. My husband wants to tell them, befor
e I start showing.”

  Kathryn stood. “I’m glad we had a chance to chat. Alas, I must depart for the Art Institute. I hope you have an enjoyable morning at the orphanage. I shall see you at afternoon tea.”

  Helen met Melody and Mary in the entry hall, and they made their way to the orphanage. When they arrived, Susan hurried forward and gave her a hug. “Helen. It’s so good to see you. Mary never mentioned you were coming for a visit. I trust you’re fully recovered from your accident?”

  “Fully recovered,” she replied. “Guess what? I’m having a baby. Isn’t that wonderful?”

  Susan pulled her into another hug. “I’m so happy for you. When is your baby due? I’m expecting as well, due in late February. Oh, how long will you be in town? I’m giving a ball to raise money for the orphanage next week. Can you attend?”

  Helen grinned at her chatterbox friend. “Susan, you haven’t changed at all. Let me see. I’m having mine the end of April. I’ll be in town for a couple of months while my husband helps Henry with this divorce bill, and Mary told me about your ball. Of course, I’ll attend. I think that answers all your questions.”

  “You know me.” Susan giggled. “I always have dozens of questions. How are you getting on with Lord Collingswood? Although you said you didn’t want a love match, you’re simply glowing.”

  “I’ve grown quite fond of my husband.” She lowered her voice. “We haven’t discussed love, but my hopes are high. Susan, I’m still scared I’ll be hurt again. That’s why I haven’t told him how I feel.”

  “I know that dastardly duke hurt you. Please don’t let him affect your marriage.” The doors opened and children ran onto the play yard. “Come for tea so we can finish chatting.”

  They joined Mary and Melody, and after playing with the children and working on the details for the auction, Helen left with her sisters-in-law and returned to Sanderford House.

  After luncheon, she went to Madame Devy’s with Melody, since her sister-in-law needed to pick up a new evening gown. While there, Helen ordered winter clothes to accommodate her increasing girth. Madame Devy assured her she could design dresses that would conceal her delicate condition.

  * * * *

  Matthew had an enjoyable day with Sanderford, and he looked forward to working with his peers in Parliament. He knew quite a few of the men who were working on the bill. Several of them were from his school days, and it was nice to see them again. The duke was so passionate about his work that it encouraged him to become involved. After all, he had a responsibility to his people to fight for their rights.

  He particularly enjoyed Gentleman Jackson’s gym. It had been years since he’d boxed, but it came back to him as he sparred with Hayden. He also enjoyed going to White’s. His father had been a member, and he looked forward to spending time with the duke and his friends at the establishment.

  Matthew ran into Bradley at White’s. He stuck out his hand. “It’s good to see you, my friend. I was sorry to hear that your uncle passed.”

  Bradley returned his handshake. “While I didn’t want my uncle to die, it was harder to see him in such pain. He was terribly ill for months. What are you doing in town? I thought you said you weren’t returning until spring.”

  “My brother-in-law asked me to support him in his fight against the Pains and Penalties Bill. Sanderford is heavily involved with this issue, and he’s convinced me I need to take my seat. Have you taken yours yet? If you’re interested, the duke would appreciate your help with the bill.”

  “I’m already involved,” Bradley replied. “If you’re taking your seat, I imagine you’ll be making your maiden speech soon. I made mine last week.”

  “Sanderford’s secretary is helping me with mine. I tell you, I do not look forward to it,” he muttered, after taking a seat across from his friend. “I’ve never been good at those kinds of things. The duke says Stallings is brilliant. He’s going to need to be, to help me.”

  “It’s hard on the nerves. I’m just glad mine is behind me.” He grinned. “How are you enjoying wedded bliss? Did your wife come with you?”

  Matthew dropped his voice and leaned across the table. “I’m glad I ran into you. I’ve wanted to talk to someone, and since we’ve been friends forever, I would appreciate your advice.”

  “Of course, how may I help?” he asked.

  He shifted his eyes from side to side, making sure no one could hear their conversation. “I’ve fallen in love with my wife. I haven’t told her. When we married, Helen insisted she only wanted companionship, not a love match, and that sounded perfect at the time. Now I’m not sure what to do. She’s the best thing that’s ever happened to me, and she’s wonderful with my daughters.”

  “I’m happy for you, old friend. I can understand why you fell in love with her. She’s gorgeous. I enjoyed meeting her at your wedding.” He cocked his brow. “You might want to do some serious wooing, even though you’re already married. Women like that sort of thing.”

  “That’s good advice,” he replied and relaxed in his chair. “Now that you’re such an eligible bachelor you might consider marriage.”

  Bradley laughed. “I’m enjoying the pleasures London has to offer too much to settle down.”

  “As you wish, my friend.” Matthew chuckled, then grinned. “I have more news. I’m to be a father in April.”

  “Congratulations.” Bradley lowered his voice. “I’m sure you’re relieved it’s happened so fast. I hope it’s a male for your sake. I recall how worried you’ve been by Gregory’s antics. Having that wastrel as your heir cannot be good.”

  He noticed Sanderford motioning to him. “The duke wants me. I’m staying with my wife’s family for now. Helen and I are renovating my townhouse though. We shall invite you over once we’re settled. Now, let me introduce you to Sanderford.”

  CHAPTER 20

  November 1820

  Over the next few days, Helen spent her mornings at the orphanage helping Susan and Mary with their project. After the children arose from their naps, she, along with her sisters-in-law, took the youngsters to the park.

  When Helen returned Christina and Catherine to the nursery, they gave her a big hug. “We loved being here with Mary Elizabeth and Angela,” Catherine said, her little face beaming. “They’re our bestest friends ever.”

  “I’m pleased you are getting along so well.” Catherine was normally the follower, and to see the little girl speaking out for a change warmed her heart. “Well, enjoy your afternoon, and I shall see you tomorrow.”

  After leaving the nursery, she went to her bedchamber and had Sally prepare her a bath. They were attending Lady Bradley’s ball that evening. It would be the first London party she’d attended since her marriage, and it would be her introduction to society as the Countess of Collingswood. Kathryn was coming as well, so it would be like old times. While she luxuriated in the tub, her thoughts turned to her husband. She still feared he would pull away if he learned she loved him.

  Surely he had feelings for her. When she awoke after the accident, he’d called her “my love.” While that was encouraging, she needed to take it slow and show him she loved him without saying the words.

  Helen met everyone downstairs at seven, and after dinner, they all left for the ball. When the carriage pulled to a halt under the portico, several footmen came to help the ladies out of the carriage and onto the red carpet. Their party made their way through the receiving line and into the ballroom, where she spied Susan and her husband.

  They approached the couple and chatted with them for a while. A few minutes later, the dancing started, and Matthew led her onto the floor for a waltz. He was a much better dancer than she recalled. Of course, since she’d fallen in love with him, being in his arms was the only place she wanted to be.

  While they danced, his eyes turned dark and smoldering. He pulled her a little closer than was strictly appropriate and whispered in her ear, “You look ravishing. Your hair looks different, longer perhaps? While you’re attractive w
ith it shorter, I would love to see it flowing down your bare back.”

  Her core clenched at his innuendo. “I’m letting it grow. When we ride along the shore, it blows all over the place, and if I wore it longer, I could pull it more securely back from my face. I only cut it because I wanted to be different.”

  “I will find you attractive either way.” He expertly executed the upcoming turn. “I visited the nursery this morning, and Christina and Catherine are adjusting well. They told me they adore playing with Mary Elizabeth and Angela. I’m glad to see them getting along, especially since the twins haven’t spent any time with other children. Would you like to see our townhouse in the morning?”

  “Of course.” She grinned. “I can’t wait to start decorating it. I enjoyed renovating our home in Devonshire, so I’ll enjoy remodeling this one as well. Where’s it located?”

  “Belgravia Square,” he replied, “and it’s been in our family for several generations. It’s a decent-sized house and will suit our needs while we’re in town. I’m warning you, it needs a lot of work. It’s been closed up for almost twenty years.” Before she had a chance to answer, the dance ended, so they rejoined the rest of their party.

  Helen surveyed the glittering ballroom filled with men and women in their evening finery, and her pulse surged. Although she loved Collingswood Hall, she adored being back in London. While talking with Kathryn, she glanced over her sister’s shoulder and noticed Lady Penelope. Of course, she was now the Duchess of Somerset, and she was with Hanford.

  She did not feel a twinge of jealousy when she saw them and realized she’d moved past the hurt she’d experienced last spring. Lines of tension were itched around Hanford’s mouth and along his forehead. Of course, he was married to a shrew; no wonder he looked dissatisfied.

  Yes, life was working out better than she had ever imagined. She had an attentive husband, and two lovely children. She now lived in a breathtaking part of the country. Last spring, she thought her life would never be a fulfilling one. How wrong she’d been to give up on love. She might have been three and twenty, but emotionally she’d been much younger. Marriage had matured her to an astonishing degree. Gratitude swelled her heart as she met her husband’s gaze.