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

by Vikki Vaught

  He grabbed her hand and pulled her onto the dance floor for the last waltz of the evening. She experienced a wonderful sense of contentment as he twirled her around. She smiled at him and he pulled her closer, not caring whether they created a scandal or not. When the waltz ended, they joined the others and made their way to the carriage.

  When they arrived home, Helen sent Sally to bed once she had her nightgown on. Matthew entered, looking handsome in his sage green banyan. Although she craved his touch, she doubted she could stay awake. She stifled a yawn, and he scooped her up, then carried her to bed, and gently laid her down. He threw his dressing gown across the end of the bed and crawled in beside her, pulling her into his arms. Kissing her forehead, he slowly stroked her shoulders.

  Her last thought before falling asleep: Thank goodness the duke had wed Lady Penelope instead of her. She would have been miserable. Saying a quick prayer, she thanked God for bringing Matthew and the girls into her life, before she drifted off to sleep.

  The next day, her husband took her to the townhouse on Belgravia Square and gave her a tour. The roof had leaked into the upstairs bedchambers, and a few windows had broken panes. The hardwood floors would need refinishing and the entire house needed a good scrubbing. At last, they entered the drawing room, and Helen turned in a circle, taking in the peeling wallpaper, the smoke-stained ceiling from a poorly drafted hearth, and put her hands on her hips.

  She harrumphed. “You did not exaggerate. This house needs a great deal of work, but never fear, I shall have it well in hand in no time. I’ll contact an employment agency tomorrow and hire a housekeeper and at least three chamber maids. It’s a good thing we’re comfortable at Sanderford House, because it will take weeks to make this house inhabitable.”

  Matthew cocked his brow. “I don’t want you overdoing. Wait until we have staff before you start. I’ll hire several men to fix the leaking roof right away.”

  They returned to Sanderford House in time for luncheon. Upon learning of the dire condition of the townhouse, her sister-in-law offered to lend them some of their staff until they could hire the servants needed to set the house in order.

  For the next four days, Helen and Melody went to the townhouse each morning and directed the staff. The agency found a housekeeper and two maids by Friday, so now there would be someone at the house full time.

  By the end of the week, the roof was repaired, and they started on the inside. Matthew had the men stay on to do the heavy work, so that helped. He could not devote much time to the house because he had to make his maiden speech in two days.

  Matthew attended daily meetings with Sanderford, working on strategies to defeat the Pains and Penalties Bill. He arrived home each night dead on his feet, but he did share what was going on.

  The Queen’s trial had gotten even more sordid, and the newspapers had printed the salacious details. Lord Grey, the Whig leader, along with her brother, were fighting hard against the bill. The Queen’s defense presented their case and had some success in turning the tide in Her Majesty’s favor. Matthew and Henry spent each day at the hearings. Most evenings they arrived home so late, they were unable to attend any of the parties being held.

  They were attending Susan’s ball that evening, and her husband had assured her he would make it home in time. While she and the other ladies had worked hard on the preparations, it would all be worth it if they accomplished their goal for the orphanage.

  Madame Devy had delivered the new gown she wanted to wear that afternoon. Once dressed, she glanced at her reflection and smoothed the front of her new evening gown of rose silk with a cream underskirt. While she did not consider herself vain, she thought the dress highlighted her figure, and she hoped Matthew would notice.

  As she descended the stairs, her husband stood waiting for her, and his smoldering gaze sent tingles spreading through her. He offered her his arm, they went outside to the carriage with the others.

  Once they arrived, they made their way through the receiving line and joined Aunt Miriam as they waited for the orchestra to play the opening dance. Helen glanced around the ballroom. The hundreds of beeswax candles in the large crystal chandeliers illuminated the room, allowing her to see the people in attendance. The event should be a success based on the crowd.

  When the opening strains of a waltz filled the room, Matthew captured her hand and pulled her onto the dance floor. “You look ravishing as always, my dear. That color makes your skin glow. Of course, you know what I would rather see you wearing?” He lowered his voice to a whisper, sending chills down her spine. “Nothing at all.”

  She laughed. “Behave yourself. Did you hear the King is supposed to attend? That would be a feather in Susan’s cap. How did your speech go today?”

  He moaned. “It was a nightmare. I hope I never have to do anything like that again. I don’t know how your brother can stand it. He’s constantly giving speeches. I plan on being a silent member. I shall work behind the scenes and let Sanderford do the talking.”

  “I’m sure you did fine. Henry felt the same way when he made his maiden speech, and look at him now.” When the waltz ended, they joined Susan and her husband. Helen smiled. “I’m sure you’re pleased with the crowd. You should raise a lot of money.”

  “I’m so nervous. At least Melody agreed to run the auction. She’ll have everyone dipping deeply into their pockets before the night is over. I appreciate your help these last few days.” The orchestra stopped playing. “Oh, dear, it’s time to start. I’ll see you later.” Susan turned and hurried toward the platform.

  The auction was a huge success. Melody and Susan raised over twelve hundred pounds. The children would have an excellent Christmas this year, and they had more than enough to pay for the new roof.

  Their party stayed for another hour. Helen had grown weary, so Matthew called for the carriage. By the time they reached their rooms, she was falling asleep on her feet. As soon as she laid her head upon his chest, she fell fast asleep.

  On the sixth of November, three years to the day after the King’s daughter, Princess Charlotte Augusta of Wales, had died in childbirth, the Pains and Penalties Bill passed, 123-95. It was a bitter disappointment to Matthew and her brother. Helen ached for them.

  Lord Grey continued to work against the bill, and Matthew and Henry continued to support it. Now, their side was in favor of the divorce clause. By keeping that in the bill, it was more likely to fail when it went in front of the House of Commons.

  A second vote was taken on the tenth. Unfortunately, the bill still passed. 108-99. Because of the rioting around town, Prime Minister Liverpool made an impassioned speech, and the government, amazingly, withdrew the bill. It was a great victory for the Queen, and the masses celebrated in the streets. Henry and Matthew were relieved it was finally over and that the bill had been withdrawn.

  Now, her husband could devote his time on the townhouse. The painters started on the downstairs. Over the next fortnight, they spent much of their time in Belgravia Square, but it was worth it. Helen began ordering furniture and other accessories.

  At last, they moved in the first weekend of December. When Christina and Catherine cried because they had to leave their friends, Helen assured them they would still see Mary Elizabeth and Angela on a regular basis.

  The master suite was decorated in soft shades of blue with beige accents, which would remind them of the sea. Helen was excited over sharing the bedchamber with her husband, because it would bring a greater level of intimacy between them.

  Cassandra sent an invitation for a soiree on the twentieth. Since they planned to leave London on the fifteenth, they should be able to attend. Helen looked forward to returning to Devonshire. She missed the tranquility of the sea. Even if she could no longer ride along the shore, she could watch it from the balcony of their suite. Even when the ocean was tumultuous, she loved it.

  The return trip to Collingswood Hall went smoothly. On the last night of the trip, the baby moved for the first time. Joy sw
ept through her. “Matthew. The baby moved. Come here; put your hand on my belly.” He did and waited. “There. Did you feel it move?”

  “Darling, all I feel is your delectable body. I’m thrilled for you, but it may be a little longer before I can experience it.” He pulled her into his arms and gently kissed her forehead. “Sweetheart, we need sleep. We have another long day ahead of us.”

  They arrived at Collingswood Hall the night before the soiree. Helen spent the next day getting ready for the party. Matthew had given her the heirloom sapphires to wear, and they complimented her deep blue velvet gown perfectly.

  When they arrived at Lord and Lady Ralston’s home and made their way to the receiving line. Cassandra gave her a hug. “I’m so pleased you returned in time. I trust your journey went well? We shall chat later, and you can tell me all about it.” They moved on and entered the ballroom.

  Helen watched Margaret as she stared at the beautifully decorated room. She smiled at her. “So, what do you think of your first ball?”

  “Oh, it’s wonderful. Everything looks beautiful. I can’t wait for the dancing to start,” She clasped her hands to her breast. “I’m finally at a society ball.”

  Peter grinned. “Come on, I want you to meet some of my friends.” He grabbed her hand, then stopped. “Please excuse us. We shall see you later.” Turning a leg, he led Margaret away.

  Helen looked at her husband and laughed. “They certainly seem happy. Perhaps this marriage isn’t the disaster we thought it would be.”

  They mingled with the other guests while they waited for the dancing to begin. Helen saw Mrs. Arlington across the room and hoped to avoid the woman. Now that she knew she’d pursued Matthew hoping he would marry her, she understood the widow’s animosity better.

  The first dance of the evening started and Matthew took her in his arms. He could not seem to take his eyes off her, and a shiver ran down her spine at his hot gaze. “I’m so glad we returned in time for Cassandra’s soiree. The ballroom looks so festive with all the holly and evergreens. I can’t wait to decorate Collingswood Hall. What kind of traditions do you have?”

  “We’ve never done much at Christmas. Any ideas you have are much appreciated. What traditions did you have at Sanderford Park?” he asked.

  As she recalled the holidays, she smiled. “We had a party for all the neighbors. Our family came from all over and stayed the entire twelve days of Christmas. I helped plan many of the activities. We also put together baskets for the tenants and their families, then distributed them the day before Christmas. I hope we can do something like that here.”

  “Do you think we could do it this year?” he mused. “It doesn’t give you much time, but I know our people would love it.”

  “I can handle it,” she assured him. “Mrs. Smith and Cook will agree to help with the baskets, and we can deliver them. I’ll talk to them tomorrow.”

  Matthew leaned in close. “Have I told you how beautiful you look tonight? I’m having a difficult time keeping my eyes away from your magnificent breasts. What I would really like to do is bury my face in them and inhale your sweet essence.”

  Her cheeks grew hot. “Be quiet. Someone might hear. We can continue this discussion when we return home.” The dance ended, and they approached Cassandra and her husband.

  “Did you have a nice time in London?” her friend asked. “I’m looking forward to going this spring.”

  Helen smiled. “We had a lovely time with my family.”

  “I’m glad you had a good visit.” After chatting about the entertainments of London for several minutes, Cassandra asked, “Where did you get your gown? It’s simply gorgeous.”

  “Madame Devy designed it. I always use her when I’m in London,” she explained.

  “I shall pay her a visit when I go to town.” Cassandra looked around the room. “I need to mingle. Can you come for tea tomorrow so we can catch up?”

  She quickly ran through what she had planned for the next day. “I could come tomorrow afternoon at two if that would be agreeable?”

  “Two is fine. I’ll see you then. I hope you enjoy yourself tonight.” Cassandra turned and hurried away to check on her other guests.

  Helen thought she had managed to avoid Mrs. Arlington, but she ran into her in the retiring room. “Good evening, Lady Collingswood. I see you’ve returned. I was so sorry to hear of your accident. I hear you fell off your horse. How did that happen? I had heard you were an excellent horsewoman. Perhaps I was mistaken. I hope you received no lasting injury?”

  “I’m fine. For some reason, the girth gave way; that’s why I fell. If you will excuse me, I need to return to my husband.” She could not believe the venom coming from that woman. If looks could kill, she would be dead.

  This was ridiculous. It was not her fault Matthew did not marry her. She was resenting this woman’s attitude. It was time to have a serious talk with her husband. There might be more to this woman’s hatred than she’d been led to believe. She would bring it up tonight as soon as they arrived home. She might be naïve, but she was not stupid. Something more than friendship had occurred between them, and she was determined to find out, no matter how difficult it would be to hear.

  CHAPTER 21

  Christmas 1820

  When they arrived home, Helen went straight to her room. His wife did not appear to be as tired as she’d been the last couple of weeks. Matthew had high hopes they would make love tonight. Everything had been a frenzy while they were visiting London. Between the evening parties and his days helping her brother, they had both been too exhausted for bed sport.

  Now that they were home, things could return to normal. Thinking of actually holding her in his arms had his desire at fever pitch.

  Thank God I kept her away from Cecilia tonight.

  The woman was always so hateful towards Helen he feared she would discover there had been more than friendship between them. Perhaps it was time to do the wooing as Bradley had suggested. Asking her to help plan something for his tenants was brilliant. Helen’s eyes had glowed at his suggestion, and it should help her see him in a positive light.

  She should be ready by now, so he made his way across the sitting room and opened the door to her bedchamber. There she sat in all her glory, brushing her lovely hair.

  She stood as he entered. Her grim expression turned his stomach queasy. Had Cecilia managed to spew her venom after all? “Matthew, please sit. We need to talk.” Her speech came out clipped. “Mrs. Arlington has such hatred for me I believe there’s more to the story than I’ve been led to believe. You were more than acquaintances, were you not? I demand the truth. Did you raise her expectations?”

  Wary, he lowered his head, avoiding her piercing blue eyes. The time for truth was upon him. His churning stomach rolled. In a way, it was a relief to tell her his dirty secret. He prayed for the right words. “Please hear me out before you sit in judgement. I’ve grown inordinately fond of you and would never do anything to hurt you. Before we wed, I had a liaison with Mrs. Arlington. If I could go back in time, I would never have become involved with her. You do not deserve her animosity. I’m sorry. Please forgive me.”

  Her blue eyes darkened, turning stormy. “I knew there was more than you’d told me. Did you raise her expectations? That happened to me, and that’s why I refuse to fall in love again. Tell me everything.”

  He inhaled, trying to calm his rattled nerves. “Cecilia…was still my mistress when we wed.” Rushing his speech, he pleaded, “I ended our affair the morning after we arrived. She started ranting that I was supposed to wed her. I was shocked. I’d made it clear before we began our liaison it would only be physical, and she had agreed.”

  Tears slid down her flushed cheeks. He walked to her and tried to put his arms around her, but she shrugged him off as she wrapped her arms around her middle in a protective stance.

  She raised her head and gazed at him through tear-filled eyes. It blasted his heart into a thousand pieces. “I never dreamed you h
ad a mistress. Although I understand you ended it, that should have happened before you came to London. You knew you planned to take a wife. Part of you must have thought you could wed and keep a mistress at the same time.”

  Devil take it, I’m an idiot.

  “That was not well done of me.” Recalling her comment from a moment ago, he asked, “Helen. Who hurt you?”

  She hid her face. “The Duke of Somerset paid court to me this past season. I believed he intended to ask for my hand. Then I read of his betrothal to Lady Penelope in the society papers. I was devastated. I decided to wed someone who did not want a love match, but I did not expect him to have a mistress.”

  Helen stifled a sob. What a stupid ass he’d been. His wife did not deserve this, especially in her condition. It ripped him apart knowing he’d caused her such anguish. “Please understand, I didn’t expect to find you when I went to London. My mind was consumed with fulfilling my father’s dying wish, and God knows my daughters needed a mother. I was not thinking clearly.”

  She wiped away her tears and retorted, “That much is obvious. You weren’t thinking at all.”

  At least anger is better than tears.

  “You must believe me. I was attracted to you from the start. I promise I will never keep a mistress again.” He blurted out, “I’m in love with you. You’re the most wonderful and amazing woman. I realized I loved you the first time we rode on the beach. Give me a chance to prove it. I’ll do anything for you.”

  Pain laced her voice. “I don’t know if I can forgive you. Please leave, I want to be alone.”

  She turned her back on him. “As you wish, but remember I love you, and I’ll never do anything to hurt you again.” He turned and left her alone, praying her heart would soften once she had time to think.