Montgomery Family 01 - Lost Pleasures Found (28 page)

“Thank God, I wanted to kill the bastard, but I knew I couldn’t do it. I’m so thankful that you noticed Kathryn was missing. I’ve tied him up so he can’t get away, and Harold is still guarding him. He assured me that he wouldn’t say anything, and I put the fear of God in the footman. He won’t be telling the maids or anyone else for that matter. He knows that not only would he lose his employment, but I would rip him apart. I don’t know how we’re going to keep this quiet, but we’ll manage some way.” Henry lowered his head and looked as if there was a thousand pounds resting on his shoulders. Melody wished there was something she could do to take some of this burden away, but she knew that only time would do that. Henry looked back up and said, “I need to go find Mother and tell her what has happened. I don’t know how she will react, because she has always thought Theodore was such an upstanding gentleman and could do no wrong. She may refuse to believe that he tried to rape Kathryn. Will you stay with her, in case she wakes up? I’ll go back down to the party, and if anyone asks where you or Kathryn are, I’ll tell them that Kathryn was feeling ill and you went to help. Then I’ll get Mother alone and tell her about this.”

Henry found his mother in the drawing room. She immediately started questioning him, wanting to know where they had gone. “Mother, we need to talk, but it can’t be here. We’ll go to my study so we can talk privately.” Henry found Helen and asked that she cover for them and that he would explain to her later what was going on. His mother followed him to his study. Henry asked her to sit down, and as he went and sat behind his desk, he said, “Mother, there has been an incident. I don’t know how to tell you this gently, but your brother just tried to rape Kathryn!”

The duchess looked furious as she said, “What do you mean? There is no way that he would ever do something like that. You must be mistaken. The silly gel is probably exaggerating.”

Henry looked at his mother with disgust on his face as he replied, “First of all, Kathryn is the most levelheaded young woman in the world. You know as well as I do, she doesn’t behave like a silly girl! There is no mistake. I had to break down the door to get into the room as he was trying to rape her. I pulled him off her, just before he could do it. Your daughter was hysterical. Her gown was in shreds, and she was covered with bruises. Melody was able to calm her down and get her to go to sleep. She’s still with her now.”

The duchess folded her arms and irately said, “I will not believe it. You are lying. You have never liked Theodore, and you are just trying to cause trouble!”

Henry jumped up out of his chair, sending it back a few feet, as he answered, “If you don’t believe me, go to Kathryn’s room and look at her arms and legs. I promise you it happened, and your daughter needs to have your support. This is going to be very difficult for her to deal with. I know that you love your brother, but you have never been able to see him realistically. Everyone knows he’s a ravaging old rogue. He’s had a terrible reputation for years, and the only reason he’s accepted anywhere is because he’s your brother. Now I strongly recommend you accept that this has indeed happened and help me figure out how to keep this from becoming a scandal. The only ones that know what he tried to do are Harold, your brother, Melody, and me … oh and the footman, Melvin. I’ve made sure that none of them will say anything, and we’ve come up with a story to cover up why your brother has to leave before the holidays are over. I’ve convinced him that he needs to go abroad and stay gone for a very long time. He’ll be leaving for the coast at daybreak.”

Henry’s mother sat down and just stared out the window. It was clear that she was in a state of shock. He went to her and tried to put his arm around her shoulders, but she shrugged him off. Henry left her where she was and returned to the party. Helen wanted to know what was going on, but Henry told her he would tell her after everyone went to bed. Finally, the party broke up, and they all retired for the evening.

He found Helen curled up on the couch in the library. She looked up at him as he entered the room and asked, “What’s going on? Why did you, Melody, and Kathryn disappear, and then only you showed back up?”

Henry glanced over at her with sadness in his eyes as he answered, “Sweetheart, your uncle assaulted your sister’s person tonight. She’s all right, because Melody and I found them before he could hurt her.”

“What do you mean when you say … he assaulted her? Are you saying that he … he … raped her?” she cried. “How can you say she’s all right?”

Henry sadly shook his head as he ran his fingers through his hair and looked at Helen. “We got to him before he could complete the job. He didn’t rape her, but it was a near miss. If we had arrived a minute later, we would have been too late. Your sister has some bruises, and of course, she’s very distraught, but other than that, she will be fine. She’ll need your help while she recovers from this ordeal.”

Helen had tears running down her face as she looked at Henry and cried, “I should have done something about it … I knew that Kathryn was scared of him … and that she detested being around him. I should have made her tell me why she felt that way. I knew Uncle Theodore was a dastardly old rogue, but I never dreamed he would accost my sister in such a horrible way. Oh, Henry, does Mother know about this?”

Henry kneeled down beside her and put his arm around her as he quietly said, “Honey, I know you feel terrible about this, but Kathryn wouldn’t have told you anything. Melody and I tried to get her to tell us why she hated him so, but all she would tell us is that he made her feel uncomfortable. I told Mother, but at first, she didn’t want to believe it, then I finally convinced her that he had done it. I think I have diverted a scandal, because I convinced our uncle he needs to move to the continent and not return any time soon. Cousin Harold is the only one who knows what happened and you know he won’t say anything. Why don’t you go on up to bed? You can see Kathryn in the morning. Melody is spending the night with her so that if she wakes up, she won’t be alone.”

Helen left to go to bed, and after he drank a glass of Brandy, Henry headed upstairs.
What
a
hell
of
a
night!
He should have pressed Kathryn more about what that bastard was trying to do to her. If he had known to what extent his uncle was bothering Kathryn, he would have done more than just talk to him; he would have banned him from the house, regardless of what his mother had to say. Henry felt terrible because he should have convinced Kathryn to tell him what was really going on.

Once he entered Kathryn’s room, he walked over, checked on Melody, and found her sleeping in the chair. He carried her over to the chaise and laid her there, and then he loosened her gown and corset so she would sleep more comfortably. He covered her up with a throw, kissed her on the temple, and left the room.

The next morning, he got his uncle out of the house without anyone seeing him. Theodore’s face was covered in bruises, and he had a black eye, but Henry felt he had gotten off lightly. If Melody had not been there, he probably would have killed him. He had never felt such rage before in his entire life. Every instinct told him to kill the enemy, and that was exactly what his uncle was. Henry would make damned sure that his uncle never showed his face in England again!

They made it through the rest of the holidays without anyone suspecting a thing. If anyone asked, they were told that Kathryn was ill with a putrid throat. Melody and Helen took turns spending time with Kathryn. Little by little, Kathryn began to recover from the ordeal. When everyone left, it was a relief to have it behind them. Of course, it would take a while before Kathryn would feel safe again.

By February, Kathryn was almost her old self again. In fact, Melody planned a party to celebrate her birthday, and then she remembered that it was her birthday as well. It was hard to believe that she was turning five and twenty years old. The party was an excellent idea, and everyone had a wonderful time; even Mary seemed to enjoy herself. She was definitely doing much better, and Melody was so happy for her.

T
HEY LEFT FOR London in the middle of March, because all the ladies needed new wardrobes. Since they would be out of mourning in April, they would no longer need to wear black. The trip went by quickly, and they were at Sanderford House by four o’clock. Everyone went to their rooms to freshen up and rest. Melody found her new room lovely. As she looked around, she noticed all the different shades of lavender with white accents and the delicate white French furniture, which she always loved. The counterpane, on the bed, was also lavender with white Belgian lace around the edge and mounds of pillows to match. She could just imagine curling up on all those pillows with a good book. This was the first time she had seen the ducal suite and knew she would be very comfortable in these rooms. Of course, Henry had told her she could change anything she wanted to, but the rooms were so lovely that she knew she would leave them alone. Besides, they usually ended up in Henry’s bed anyway. She wondered what his rooms looked like and decided to go explore. The sitting room adjoined her room, and it was just as lovely. She could see herself sitting by the fireplace with Henry having a quiet evening reading to each other or playing chess. The door across the room must lead to Henry’s room, so she went over, opened the door, and entered. The room was empty. As she glanced around looking at the massive furniture and an enormous bed on a raised dais in the center of the room, she felt a tingling sensation run through her body when she thought of making love with Henry in that bed.

The door opened, and Henry walked in and asked, “Hello, sweetheart. This is a lovely surprise. Are you here to work your feminine wiles on me? I certainly hope so!”

Melody laughed as she replied, “I’ll wait to do that until tonight. I just wanted to see where we’ll spend many enjoyable nights. I love my room, by the way. I won’t be changing a thing. This room suits you, even if it is a bit opulent. I feel a bit sorry for your mother. She’s not going to like staying in the dowager suite I’m sure. I wish she would warm up to me, but I guess that’s not going to happen. At least, she’s finally stopped making all those negative comments to me. I appreciate you speaking with her, and I’m sure it wasn’t a pleasant conversation. What with so much happening and worrying about Kathryn, this was the first chance I’ve had to tell you that.” Melody walked over to Henry, gave him a kiss, and said, “Well, it will soon be time to go down to dinner, so I need to return to my room so I can get ready. I’ll see you in a bit.”

The dinner that evening was amazing. Each course was magnificently prepared, and Melody would make sure Chef Michelle knew how much everyone enjoyed the food. Henry’s mother chose to have her dinner in her room, so everyone’s spirits were high. Helen was excited about the upcoming season and could not wait for all the balls, soirees, and garden parties to start. Kathryn joined in on the discussion, but Melody knew her heart was not in it. After dinner, Henry chose to bypass his port and joined the ladies in the drawing room where Mary entertained them by playing the pianoforte and Melody sang. Since everyone was exhausted from the trip, they all retired early.

The next morning, after breakfast, all the ladies went to see the modiste, Madame Devy. They ordered day dresses, morning gowns, dinner dresses, and evening gowns, plus all the chemises, corsets and stays to go with them. Melody and Helen also ordered new riding habits. After they left Madame Devy’s, they went to the millinery shop and picked out new bonnets, and then, of course, they needed gloves to match all their gowns and new slippers. Once they were through, they went to Gunter’s for sandwiches and ices. It was a very pleasant afternoon. Even Henry’s mother seemed to have an enjoyable time. Mary was not sure if she was ready to give up her mourning clothes, but Melody was able to convince her that it was time.

The invitations were coming in everyday, but they would not accept any of them, until after April 5. In the meantime, it would give them a chance to see some of the other amusements that London had to offer. They went to Astley’s Amphitheatre, and Melody took Kathryn to the art museums. They went to Drury Lane to see a play and also to the Royal Opera House in Covent Gardens, which Melody thoroughly enjoyed. Henry was very busy with his responsibilities to the House of Lords. He would spend the morning at Gentleman Jackson’s gym, have lunch with his friends, and after that, he would spend the afternoon in Parliament. He was always available to escort the ladies in the evening and took dinner with them.

Their new wardrobes arrived by the end of March, and Kathryn’s presentation gown was magnificent. Melody was also being presented at court as the new Duchess of Sanderford. She was very busy because they were holding Kathryn’s Presentation Ball on April 15, the same day they were to be presented at court. Everyone helped make out the invitations, and they were delivered by the end of the month. Melody was feeling a bit overwhelmed, but her aunt had assured her she would be fine. She visited her aunt almost everyday, and she had gotten in touch with Susan about volunteering at the orphanage again. Needless to say, her days were full, and they had not even gone to their first party.

The presentation at court went exceedingly well. Kathryn was breathtaking in her presentation gown. She looked so elegant and graceful when she made her curtsey. Melody was nervous, but since her focus was more on Kathryn than herself, she made it through without any mishaps. When they arrived back at the house, she went and checked on everything for the ball that night. The ballroom looked gorgeous. She stood there as she breathed in the scent of all the hothouse yellow roses that were placed around the room. Gold silk gently draped the walls in between the large mirrors and windows and it truly looked lovely. She could just imagine how it would look with everyone dancing tonight in a myriad of color from all the gorgeous ball gowns and the crystal chandeliers ablaze with hundreds of beeswax candles. Everything was ready, so all she had to do was get dressed. Henry came to her rooms and presented her with the family heirloom yellow diamonds. There was a tiara, necklace, bracelet, and earbobs to match. They were absolutely glorious, and they would match her ball gown perfectly. He kissed her neck as he fastened the necklace around her, and she felt chills run up her spine. It always astonished her that the slightest touch could affect her so.

“Darling, you are breathtakingly beautiful. You’ll dazzle everyone, and I’m so proud of you. I know this has been so much for you to take care of, but you have handled it as well as any duchess could. You don’t need to be worried. Your charm and grace will carry you through. Let’s go down and welcome our guests.”

The family gathered in the drawing room and then went into dinner. They chose not to invite anyone to dinner other than the immediate family so that it would keep Melody from becoming over taxed. After dinner, they went to the receiving room and waited for their guests to arrive. Susan and her husband, Viscount Hastings, were the first to arrive, followed by Henry’s friend the Earl of Weston and Lady Helton. For the next two hours, Melody greeted one lord and lady after another. It seemed as if every single person they had invited decided to come. At ten o’clock, they dissolved the receiving line and went into the ballroom to open the dance. Henry led Melody out to the floor and Lord Weston led Kathryn. The first dance was a quadrille, and everyone looked so elegant. It was as lovely as she had imagined it would be. Melody began to relax, and Henry even had her laughing before the dance ended.

They strolled around the room, stopping to talk to some of Henry’s friends and many of their other guests. They approached Susan and her husband and stopped to chat.

Susan gave her a quick hug and said, “Melody, you look radiant tonight, and the ballroom is magnificent. We’ve been looking forward to your ball ever since we received the invitation. Kathryn is so pretty. I’m sure she’s going to do fine, and Helen is as vivacious as ever. How did everything go at your presentation this afternoon?”

With a relieved expression on her face, Melody answered, “I was very nervous, but I think that I was so concerned about Kathryn doing well that I didn’t think about mine as much. Kathryn is very pretty, and when she opens up, she can really sparkle. Helen I don’t worry about, for she’s an accomplished flirt. Are we still going to the orphanage tomorrow at eleven o’clock?”

Susan smiled as she replied, “Oh yes, that’s still a good time for me. Are Helen, Mary, and Kathryn coming with us? Helen and Mary usually go as often as possible, whenever they’re in town.”

“Yes, they’re coming. At first, Mary wasn’t sure she would go, but I was able to convince her to come with us. I think it would be good for her to get out more. Well, I need to go check on Kathryn, so we’ll talk more tomorrow,” Melody answered.

Henry asked Susan to dance, and Melody went to find Kathryn. She was sitting over against the wall, and she looked so despondent. Melody had hoped she would cheer up, but obviously, she was still having trouble putting the incident with her uncle behind her. She was so shy that she was probably going to have trouble attracting a possible husband. Of course, she still said she was not interested in marriage, but she could always change her mind. She would get Henry to introduce her to some nice young men.

Melody smiled down at Kathryn and said, “Sweetheart, why are you sitting over here by yourself? Where is Helen? I haven’t seen her for a while.”

Kathryn perked up and replied, “She went to dance with the Duke of Somerset. I think she likes him. Of course, he’s a little old, but that doesn’t seem to bother Helen. I was speaking with your aunt, but she just left to go to the card room. I really don’t mind sitting by myself. I appreciate all the effort you have put into this lovely ball. I’ve always dreamed of the day that I could go to a ball, and now the day has finally arrived.”

Melody was relieved to see Kathryn more animated and hoped she would come out of her shell now that she was officially out. “You’ll get tired of all the balls before the season is over. Have you met anyone that you found interesting?”

“If you’re referring to men, then the answer is a resounding no. I’m really not interested in getting married. I still want to be an artist. By the way, when are you and Henry going to sit for me?” she asked. “I want to do your formal portrait, but neither one of you will commit to sitting for me.”

“I think that it will be hard to find the time now that we’re in London for the season. I’ll definitely get Henry to commit to sitting for you once the season ends. I see my aunt across the room, and I’ve been trying to talk to her all evening. Let me know if you need anything.” Melody strolled around the room until she came to her aunt. Before she had a chance to talk to her, Lord Weston asked her to dance. Melody ended up dancing quite a few times before she got a chance to speak with her aunt. Henry came over, and it was time for the supper dance. It was a waltz, and she did so love to dance with Henry.

As they swayed to the music, Melody said, “Henry, you need to introduce some nice young men to Kathryn. She has been sitting by herself far too often, and I want her to have a good time. She says she is, but I worry. She has grown even shyer since the incident with your horrid uncle. I know she says that she’s not interested in marriage, but she can still have fun getting to know other young people.”

Henry gazed into Melody’s eyes as he replied, “I introduced her to several of my friends, and all of them requested a dance, so that should help. The effort you put into this ball is much appreciated. I knew you would be an excellent hostess because you did such an exceptional job hosting all the activities at Christmas. Helen is certainly having a good time. I believe she has danced every set this evening.”

“Helen is so vivacious she attracts hordes of admirers. I do feel that the Duke of Somerset is too old for her, and I don’t care for him very much at all, but Helen seems to be very attracted to him. I just hope he doesn’t end up hurting her. There’s something about him that just doesn’t sit well with me. Henry, the dance is ending. Let’s go find Kathryn and go into supper,” she said.

As he escorted her off the dance floor, he replied, “I don’t know very much about the Duke of Somerset, but if Helen is interested in him, I will definitely find out more about him.”

They found Kathryn and went into supper. The food was delicious. There were lobster patties, oysters, finger sandwiches, and several different kinds of fruit and cheeses to choose from, and the ice sculptures were incredible. Melody knew that she needed to tell Chef Michelle how wonderful everything turned out. After supper, Melody was finally able to talk to her aunt at last. She was having a superb time, and she said that several of her friends had commented on how beautifully decorated the ballroom was. Melody was ecstatic that everyone seemed to be having such a splendid time, and so far, the evening had come off extremely well. She even noticed that Mary was having an enjoyable time. Melody had danced with Mary’s brother, Mr. Bronson. It was such a shame that he had lost his arm at Waterloo, but he seemed to be adjusting well to civilian life. As the ball was winding down, Melody’s aunt was one of the last to leave.

“Darling, you really did have a wonderful turn out tonight. This could very well be the most talked about ball of the season. You should be very proud of your accomplishments. I’ll see you tomorrow afternoon, as usual.” Then her aunt kissed her cheek and left.

Melody was exhausted by the time everyone left. Helen was glowing and said she had had a sensational time. She talked all the way up the stairs about the evening. Kathryn thanked Melody and went to her room.