‘We’ll just have to smile and offer the happy couple our congratulations.’ She gave her friend a sympathetic glance. ‘It’s going to be worse for you. I had my chance and messed it up, but you fell in love with a girl you’ve never been able to get near because there was a tall, powerful man standing in the way.’
‘I wouldn’t have stood a chance with her, anyway, but it doesn’t change the way I feel.’
‘You mustn’t believe that,’ she said sharply. ‘You’re a fine man, and any girl with an ounce of sense would be honoured to become your wife.’
Suddenly he grinned. ‘The way things are going we could end up marrying each other.’
‘Now you’re being silly,’ she scolded. ‘You’re my substitute brother and best friend. If we tried to be romantic with each other we’d never be able to stop laughing.’
‘You’re right, of course.’ He became serious again. ‘But you still haven’t come up with an idea of how we can avoid this function.’
‘We can’t. Mother’s health is steadily improving since we told her about Edward, and she’s determined to attend. This ball will be her first social outing. She’s excited about attending, and Father believes the outing will do her a world of good. You know how she’s always enjoyed such occasions. I have to go,’ she said gently, ‘and I would appreciate having your company. And anyway, it will look very strange if you’re not there. It’s common knowledge how well you’re doing as Alexander’s agent, and how close you’ve become. Everyone will expect you to be there.’
He nodded. ‘There’s no way out. It will be a glittering affair. Do you and your mother have any jewellery left?’
‘Not a piece between us.’ Gertrude gave a wry smile. ‘Perhaps we’ll start a new, unadorned, fashion.’
She was making a joke of it, but David knew their lack of jewels would be noticed. ‘What about gowns?’
‘We still have those we wore at New Year. Mother has lost weight, but I’ve altered hers, and it fits well now.’
‘You’re also slimmer, Gertie.’
‘I’ve made mine fit, as well. We don’t care what others think. These last months have been a nightmare, but we’ve come through. Mother’s almost back to full health, the business has been steadily growing. We’re even making a small profit now.’ She leant forward, eyes shining with triumph. ‘We’re winning, David. Against all the odds we’re winning! Do you believe we care what other people think or say about us?’
His heart lifted in admiration for her and the family he loved. Every material possession had been sacrificed to give Florence the best medical care – even Hanna’s jewellery had gone to help. But the joy of seeing Florence once again running the house, laughing, and encouraging them in their efforts, was the only reward they needed. Gertie was right – what other people thought was of no importance.
‘You’ll both shine brighter than any jewels.’
‘We intend to. Now –’ she gave an impish smile – ‘your invitation is for Mr Gardener and guest, so who are you taking? You need a pretty girl on your arm.’
‘I thought of asking Millie,’ he joked, ‘but I’m not sure Fred would allow that.’
‘What a splendid idea!’ She went over to the mantelpiece and picked up her own invitation. ‘Mother and Father are on one card, and my invitation is the same as yours. I could invite Fred to be my escort. What do you think?’
Tipping his head back, he roared with laughter. ‘What a stir that would cause!’
‘Do we care?’ Then her amusement faded. ‘I’ve never met the Chesters, but I hear they are very proper, and I can’t understand why we’ve been invited. You are included because of your connection with Alexander, but why us?’
‘I suspect that’s Alex’s doing. Although the ball is being given by Lord and Lady Chester, it’s to be held in Alex’s London home because of the large ballroom.’
‘Oh.’ She studied the card. ‘I didn’t notice that, but I still don’t understand why he should invite us. Since Edward’s gambling came to light we have withdrawn from society.’
‘Perhaps he thinks it’s time you rejoined the social round. And he likes you, Gertie. All of you.’
‘I’m aware he likes Mother and Father, but not me. I’m so ashamed every time I remember the disgraceful way I’ve treated him. He’s done so much for us, and I haven’t even had the decency to acknowledge it. I should have at least written him a note, but I didn’t. I’m not a very nice person, am I?’
‘Nonsense! You were uneasy about him from the moment you met, and since then you’ve been under enormous strain. I’m sure he understands that, and he’s not the kind of man to hold a grudge,’ he told her gently.
‘You all talk about him as if he’s perfect – some kind of saint.’
‘Oh no,’ he laughed. ‘He has many faults, just like the rest of us, but when you get to know him you realise he is a man of high ideals, having his own standards of right and wrong. He’s respected, but many are wary of him. Discipline governs his life – and that includes self-discipline.’
‘It would be interesting to see him lose control just once and glimpse the hidden man.’
‘You wouldn’t like to see it, and if that ever happens I’ll run for cover,’ he joked.
‘You do exaggerate,’ she told him. ‘Back to the subject in hand. What are we going to do about our guests?’
‘Take Millie and Fred.’
‘We can’t, I was only joking.’ She took a swipe at him, missing as he ducked. ‘Be serious.’
‘I am. Think how they’d enjoy the evening. I’ll see they’re suitably dressed. Come on, Gertie, this is going to be a difficult evening for both of us, so let’s have some fun. At least Millie and Fred will make us laugh.’
‘Hmm, you’re right.’ She thought for a moment, and then chuckled. ‘All right, let’s do it. They can only chuck us out.’
‘They won’t do that. Fred and Millie polish up quite nicely.’ He leapt up and kissed her cheek. ‘You’re the best friend a man can have. And it’s lovely to see your bright smile again.’
‘You look splendid, Mother.’ Gertrude checked the dress from all angles. ‘And the cane Fred made you is very elegant.’
Florence ran her hand over it and smiled. ‘Yes, it’s quite beautiful. He’s a very talented boy, and your father is impressed with his work.’
‘I most certainly am.’ Sutton walked into the room. ‘You both look absolutely beautiful. You’ve done a wonderful job with the gowns, Gertie. Now, the carriage David ordered for us has arrived, so we should be on our way.’
While her parents talked quietly, she watched the passing scenery, wondering what the evening held in store. She hadn’t heard from David about their idea for escorts, so she’d assumed nothing had come of it. That was a shame really, though hardly surprising. But it would have been fun to have Fred and Millie’s lively company at the ball.
Glancing at her mother, she felt a warm glow of pleasure. She still needed support when walking, and tired easily, but was much improved. The doctor was now hopeful of a full recovery, but keeping her free from worry was still their main concern. However, it was becoming obvious her mother had changed. There was a quieter, almost serene air about her at times. She talked about her son with pride as she acknowledged his heroic achievements, but his past was never mentioned, and they were happy to keep it that way. She was proud of her son, and it was the only thing that mattered. As long as her mother was happy then she would continue to improve.
‘Aren’t we rather early?’ Florence asked her husband.
‘A room has been set aside for you so you can rest before your grand entrance,’ he teased affectionately. ‘And you may retire there at any time during the evening should you feel overtired.’
‘How very thoughtful.’ She nodded at her husband and daughter. ‘I do tire easily, but the doctor said I’ll get stronger.’
‘Of course you will, my dear. You’re almost back to full health, and we’re very proud of you.
Ah, here we are.’
Sutton helped his wife out of the carriage, then bent his head and whispered in her ear, ‘Are you ready to be congratulated by everyone on your recovery? Not only will all be pleased to see you again, but your son’s exploits have been in the newspapers.’
Gertrude went to the other side of her mother, sad to hear her father referring to Edward as her son, and not theirs. Most of the reports about the breaking of the Ladysmith siege had mentioned the names of those honoured in battle. Copies of the papers were now her mother’s treasured possessions.
Florence’s head came up, her carriage upright as they made their way up the flight of steps to the entrance. As soon as they were inside, her parents were shown to a room on the ground floor, and with an hour to pass before the festivities began, she made her way to the library.
The level of noise hit her as she opened the door. The scene inside was unbelievable. A small boy was tearing around the room, being pursued by an even smaller girl, who was screaming at the top of her voice.
David was in the middle of the chaos, laughing, and when he saw Gertrude, he scooped up the little girl. ‘Quiet Johnny!’ he yelled. ‘We have a visitor.’
The boy skidded to a halt, making a valuable-looking vase on a nearby table wobble dangerously. Gertrude lunged at it, managing to steady it before it crashed to the floor. ‘Phew!’
‘Well caught, Miss.’
She turned to face two people she hardly recognised.
‘It’s us,’ Millie giggled, as she sketched a curtsy. She was wearing a simple white dress embroidered with blue forget-me-nots. ‘Don’t we look grand. We’re coming to the ball.’
‘You look stunning!’
‘Mr Gardener got the clothes for us,’ Fred told her, before spinning round. He was wearing full evening dress, and he appeared to have shot up suddenly. He was now taller than her. ‘What do you think?’
‘My goodness, Fred, you look quite the young gentleman.’ She glanced questioningly at David.
‘I put the idea to Alex and he was in full agreement. What do you think of your escort for this evening?’
She slipped her arm through Fred’s. ‘I’m honoured, sir.’
‘Me too, Miss Melrose.’
‘Oh, and this bundle of mischief is May.’ David put the little girl down. ‘And the noisy one’s Johnny.’
‘Hello,’ she said, stooping down as they came to see her. ‘Are you coming to the ball, as well?’
‘Nah, we’re too young,’ Johnny told her, ‘but Lord’s found a place for us upstairs where we can see everything.’
‘Lord?’
‘He insists Alex must be a lord,’ David told her.
‘Ah.’ Feeling a tug at her sleeve, she saw May pulling at a piece of gold satin ribbon. ‘Do you like that?’
‘Pretty.’
Carefully unthreading the desired piece of ribbon, she handed it to the little girl, who took it from her as if it were the most precious thing in the world.
‘Ooo, ta.’ May held it up to Johnny. ‘Look, tie in my hair.’
‘I’ll do it, sweetie, come here.’
May stood patiently while a perfect bow was arranged in her fair hair. When it was done she gave Gertrude a sweet smile, and then ran over to David. ‘Look!’
He made a great show of being overwhelmed by the beauty of it, making the girl shriek with glee.
‘What is going on here?’
Everyone stopped talking, and turned to face the woman who had just come into the library.
‘What are these children doing here, Mr Gardener?’ Her mouth turned down with displeasure at the sight.
Before David had a chance to answer, Alex strode in. ‘They are my friends – and my children, Lady Chester, and are here at my invitation.’
The woman was lost for words as she stared at Alex. Then she recovered and gave a girlish laugh. ‘You’re teasing, Alexander.’
‘I assure you I’m not. Allow me to introduce you. Have you met Miss Melrose?’
‘No. How do you do?’
‘It’s a pleasure to meet you, Lady Chester.’ She was wearing so many diamonds it was hard not to blink in the glare.
‘David, you already know,’ Alex continued. ‘This is Millie and Fred. The young boy with jam around his face is Johnny – and the delightful little girl is May.’
Alex stooped down and held out his hands. ‘Show everyone how well you walk now, sweetheart.’
May fairly ran into his arms, her smile as wide as it could get. He swept her up. ‘My goodness, don’t you look beautiful with the gold ribbon in your hair.’
She swivelled round and pointed at Gertrude. ‘Pretty lady gave me. From dress.’
‘That was very kind of her. Did you thank her?’ She nodded vigorously.
‘Your suit will get crumpled. You should put the child down.’ Lady Chester moved closer to Alex. ‘Is she … er … clean?’
‘Course she is.’ Johnny had sharp ears and was indignant. ‘We all are! Lord sent men to our street and they fum …’ he screwed up his face in concentration. ‘What’s the word?’
‘Fumigated,’ David told him.
‘That’s right. They got rid of the bugs. We’re as clean as you now, ain’t we, Lord?’
‘You most certainly are.’ He rested his hand on top of the agitated boy’s head. ‘Daisy will be coming for you any minute now, Johnny. You and May go with her. She’ll stay with you for an hour and then a carriage will take you both home. I’ve found a good vantage point for you on the balcony where you will be able to see the ballroom. There’s food there for you, as well.’
‘Lovely!’
‘Jelly?’ May wanted to know.
‘Lots.’ Alex put the child down and Johnny took hold of her hand.
‘We must go, Alexander,’ Lady Chester said. ‘Our guests are beginning to arrive.’
As they left the room, Gertrude was calling herself every nasty name she could think of. How could she have been such a fool? He was everything she admired in a man, and she had recognised it too late.
Chapter Thirty
‘Mrs Jenkins!’ Alex called as he stormed along the passage. Where the devil was his housekeeper when he needed her?
‘Alexander!’ Lady Chester caught up with him, out of breath. ‘We have to greet the guests.’
‘You and your family do it, Lady Chester. It’s your function. Mrs Jenkins! Where the devil are you?’
‘Here, sir.’ She was running as fast as her ample size would allow.
The butler and footman had also arrived, alerted by their master’s raised voice.
‘I only want Mrs Jenkins, not the whole damned house!’ he growled, sending the men running for cover.
‘I’m here, so will you tell me what you want me to do, sir?’
‘Go to the library and take your workbox. Miss Melrose needs gold ribbon for the sleeve of her dress. She pulled it out and gave it to May for her hair. Be quick. I won’t have her walking into the ballroom like that. And tell David Gardener to meet me in my private sitting room. Now!’
The butler had reappeared but was standing at a safe distance from his furious master. ‘You are expected in the ballroom, sir.’
‘I’ll get there when I’m good and ready!’ He spun on his heel and took the stairs three at a time.
The door of the library burst open and the housekeeper hurried in. ‘Mr Gardener, the master wants to see you in his sitting room at once.’
Glancing at the clock, he frowned. ‘What’s he doing there? The evening is about to get under way.’
‘I don’t know, sir, but he’s in a powerful rage. I wouldn’t waste any time if I were you.’ She put down her work basket and ran a hand over her hair. ‘And be careful. It’s rare for him to lose his temper, but when he does it’s best not to question his orders.’
David left the room at a run.
Gertrude watched in amazement, wondering what on earth was going on.
‘Now, Miss Melrose, I’ve been o
rdered to repair your dress.’
‘Oh, it doesn’t matter.’ She touched the sleeve. ‘No one will notice me.’
‘It will only take a moment. I have some ribbon. Not the same, but I can change it in both sleeves so they will match.’ The housekeeper began to work quickly, and the job was soon done.
‘There, that’s better.’ She stood back to study her work, and then pursed her lips. ‘The dress needs something at the neck.’
‘I don’t have anything. But I thought it looked all right.’
‘I think we can improve it. We need to bring attention to your graceful long neck.’ More ribbon was removed from the basket, plaited, and tied around Gertrude’s neck with a bow at the side.
‘That’s ever so pretty.’ Millie had been watching with great interest. ‘You’re clever, Mrs Jenkins.’
‘Thank you, Millie.’ She inspected her handiwork one more time, and nodded in satisfaction. ‘I just hope the master feels the same way or this household is in for a stormy couple of days.’
‘Has he really lost his temper?’ Fred looked as if he couldn’t believe it.
‘I’m afraid so.’
‘But he was all right when he was here,’ he pointed out. ‘He was laughing and joking.’
‘Well he isn’t now. Something has upset him.’
‘Hmm, wonder what it was.’ Fred pulled a face at Millie.
‘You wanted to see me?’ David stopped just inside the door. Alex was pacing the room, and did not look at all like the controlled man he’d come to know.
‘She isn’t wearing any jewellery.’ His voice resonated with anger.
‘Pardon?’
‘Why is Gertrude wearing an old gown and not one item of jewellery?’
‘The gown isn’t old. I believe it’s only been worn twice.’ David wished Alex would stand still. It was unnerving. ‘And she hasn’t any jewellery left.’
‘What about her mother?’
‘It’s all been sold to pay the medical bills.’
Hold on to your Dreams Page 21