Montgomery Family 01 - Lost Pleasures Found

by Vikki Vaught

  Melody excused herself and went up to her rooms. She thought about what the duchess had said and wondered if Henry thought she was fat. He had never said anything, but he was so kind, he would not want to hurt her feelings, even if he did think she was too plump. Maybe she should try to refrain from eating so many sweets. She certainly did not want Henry to think she was fat. Melody sat down on the chaise, picked up her book, and began to read. Soon, she was lost in the story and forgot all about the cruel things the duchess had said to her.

  That evening, she decided to have a tray sent to her room instead of joining everyone for dinner. She had a slight headache, so she would just spend a quiet evening alone. She wanted to finish her book, so she could start that new Radcliffe novel she had purchased in the village that day. She tucked her feet under her and began to read. Finally, she started to get sleepy and decided to go to bed. She rang for her maid so that Millie could help her undress. She crawled into bed and started to think about Henry, and she wondered what he was doing. Did he miss her, or was he enjoying being with his men so much that he didn’t even think about her? As she thought of Henry, she began to cry. She knew he had to go, but she missed him so. She rolled over and hugged a pillow, wishing Henry were there to hold her. She could still smell the sandalwood scent Henry always wore, and it helped her feel closer to him. She would make sure no one washed the pillowcase because she wanted to be able to hug it each night so she could pretend that Henry was still with her. Then she slowly drifted off as she cried herself to sleep.

  Over the next month, Melody had to endure quite a few negative comments from both the duke and the duchess. She believed they would never accept her or feel any affection for her, no matter what she did. Thank goodness for Helen and Kathryn! They helped to keep her busy and treated her with kindness. Nelson was always very thoughtful; he had taken her for several more walks, and they even went riding most mornings when the weather permitted. He always told her funny stories about Henry and some of the mischief that he got into while growing up. It sounded as if Nelson had been a very good brother to Henry and that must have helped him, since his parents had treated him so poorly. Melody wondered why the duke was so judgmental toward Henry. It was obvious they did not treat Nelson that way, and while the duke and duchess did not spend much time with his sisters, they were never cruel to them.

  Melody wrote Henry everyday, and she had received several letters from him. He always told her how much he loved her and that he could not wait until they could be together again. She did not tell Henry how hateful his parents were being to her because she did not want him to worry about her. She kept her letters cheerful and told him about the fun she was having with his sisters, especially Helen.

  The days passed slowly, and finally it was time for Henry to return. He was supposed to be home the next day. Melody had Millie prepare a bath for her so she could wash her hair because Henry always told her how much he loved the way her hair smelled. She used lemon juice whenever possible because it brought out the lighter streaks of blonde in her hair.

  The next morning, Melody was so excited. She wondered what time Henry would arrive. She hoped it would be earlier in the day because she doubted she would be able to do anything until he got home; she was that excited. She spent time with Kathryn in the schoolroom. Kathryn was a marvelous artist, and she was painting Melody’s portrait. So far, she had not let Melody see it, but she said she would be finished that day, so Melody could give it to Henry when he arrived.

  Kathryn motioned to Melody to come over, and she showed her the portrait. Melody stood there looking at it in astonishment. Kathryn had made her look so beautiful! “Oh, Kathryn, it’s beautiful. Is that the way I look to you? I can’t believe this is me. You see me so differently than I see myself. I only wish I looked like that.”

  “Melody, you do look like that. You’re very lovely, and I’m not sure this portrait does justice to your beauty. You have a certain quality about you that radiates an inner beauty that was very hard to portray. I’m pleased you like it,” Kathryn said.

  Melody smiled over at Kathryn and laughed, then said, “I hope Henry sees me this way, for you have made me look very beautiful!” Kathryn laughed with her and since it was time for luncheon, they went down to join the rest of the family.

  Melody decided to take a walk to the lake, hoping it would help the time pass. As she stood there looking out over the lake, she remembered the time she and Henry had made love there. All those wonderful feelings came rushing back to her. Melody tried to avoid thinking about their lovemaking, as she became frustrated because they could not be together, and it was easier, if she did not think about it. Soon Henry would be there, and they could be together again. Melody blushed. Just thinking about making love with Henry brought a tingling sensation deep in her belly. She turned and headed back to the house, and as she walked up to the terrace, she saw him standing there.

  He walked over to her and took her into his arms. It was like coming home. The wind had blown his hair, and he needed a shave, but he’d never looked more attractive to her. He looked down at Melody with tenderness in his eyes and said, “Oh my darling, I’ve missed you so much. This has been the longest month of my life. Did you miss me?”

  “Of course, I missed you. I thought this month would never end, so I’m glad you’re back. How are your men? Have many of them returned to civilian life?” she asked.

  As he cradled her in his arms, he replied, “Some of them have, but many of them don’t have jobs to return to, so they’re still there. I’ve been trying to find work for them, but it’s hard. There are so many of them and so few jobs to be found. Some of my men are very down, and morale isn’t at its best right now. They’re restless, and because of this, some altercations have broken out. I’ve had to discipline several of them, which is never pleasant for me. Let’s change the subject to something more pleasant. I talk about these problems all the time with Hayden, so I just want to talk to you and tell you how much I adore you. Your letters were so cheerful. I appreciate you writing to me everyday, and I look forward to receiving them on such a regular basis. You’re spoiling me dreadfully, and I love every minute of it. I do try to write you everyday, but my men keep me so busy that some nights, I’m just too tired to pick up my pen. I’m glad you seem to be getting along with my brother and sisters. You didn’t mention much about my parents. Have they been treating you well?”

  “They don’t talk to me very much. I think they would rather pretend I don’t exist,” she replied. “I spend most of my time with Helen. She’s been so nice to me, and we’ve become good friends. Kathryn has painted my portrait, and she just finished it today. She said she would give it to you. She flattered me greatly. I was pleased she wanted to paint me, and she’s very good. I’ve seen some of her other works, and they’re wonderful.”

  Henry grinned at her as he said, “I’m sure I’ll love the portrait, and I’m sure she painted you in all your glory. Every time I see you after having been apart, your beauty astounds me. It’s time for tea, so we had better go in. His grace gets very irritable if anyone is ever late for tea.”

  “Oh, I know about that! Helen and I were late coming back from the village, right after you left, and he let me know how displeased he was with me, so let’s go right in.” Melody and Henry went to the drawing room, and all the family was already there. The duke looked displeased again.

  “So I see that you have returned, boy … How long will you be staying this time?” he asked. “Nelson needs your help with running the estate. When are you going to sell your commission? You’re needed here.”

  “I’m sorry, your grace, but I feel I can’t leave my men until they are settled. I have a commitment to them, and I need to fulfill that responsibility first,” Henry politely replied to his father.

  “That is ridiculous! Your family should come first. Those men do not need you to hold their hand. Let them find their own jobs!” he said.

  Even though the duke looked as if
he was ready to explode from anger, Henry did not let it intimidate him, so he said, “Nonetheless, I won’t desert my men. I’ve told you this before. Nelson has assured me he’s just fine. He told me to take as long as I need.”

  The duke’s face turned a bright red as he said, “I can see there is no use talking about this. You are as stubborn as ever. Just take your wife and get out of my sight!”

  Henry drew himself up to his full height. Melody could tell he was ready to lose control, but then he kept his temper and said, “Melody, come with me, and we’ll have tea sent to our suite instead. I’ll see the rest of you later. Excuse me, your graces, Nelson, Helen, Kathryn. Good day to you all.”

  Henry asked Simpson to have tea sent up to their suite, and they went upstairs. They entered their sitting room, and Henry pulled Melody into his arms. He kissed her hard and said, “I’ve wanted to do that ever since I saw you on the terrace. You look so pretty in that yellow dress. It brings out all the green flecks in your beautiful eyes.” There was a knock on the door; he opened it, and a footman entered with their tea. “Just put it over there on the table, and you may go.”

  Melody sat down and poured their tea. She filled a plate with sandwiches and biscuits and handed it to Henry. She took her teacup and began to drink. She watched Henry finish off his food and reach for more. It was obvious that he was very hungry.

  Soon he finished and noticed that she was not eating anything. “Melody, you haven’t eaten anything. Are you all right?”

  Melody sipped her tea and said, “I’m fine, Henry. I’m just trying to slim down a bit. I’ve decided that I’m a bit too plump, so I’m watching what I eat.”

  “What nonsense is this? You’re beautiful just as you are. I love every luscious inch of you, and I don’t want you to lose an ounce. Here, let me fill a plate for you. Eat up!” he said.

  “You really like me the way I am?” she asked. “I’ve worried that you thought I was too plump. Your mother indicated that you like slender women and I’m far from that.”

  Henry looked directly into Melody’s eyes as he said, “Don’t listen to my mother. She doesn’t know my tastes. Let me assure you, I love you just the way you are. You’re round in all the right places, and I want you to stay that way! Come here … I need a hug.”

  Melody went to Henry, and he pulled her into his arms and began to kiss her passionately. He thrust his tongue into her mouth, and Melody tentatively used her tongue in a dance as old as time. He picked her up and carried her to his bed. As he approached the bed, he put her down and let his eyes roam up and down her body. She grew hot just seeing Henry look at her with so much desire in his eyes.

  Henry’s eyes sizzled as he looked at her and said, “Melody, take off your clothes for me. I want to see all of you. Every night, I’ve been dreaming of seeing your gorgeous naked body.”

  Melody blushed but turned around so he could unbutton her gown and loosen her corset and stays. Melody turned back around; he stood there watching her, and she could tell he was getting very aroused. She dropped her dress, removed her corset, stays, and chemise but left her stockings and garters on. It seemed different and much more embarrassing to be without her clothes in the daytime. As Henry kneeled down and began to roll her stocking down her leg, shivers ran down her spine, and she felt her desire for him rise. As he removed her stocking and garter, he bent down and kissed the back of her knee, which tickled and Melody giggled. Henry looked up at her with passion raging in his eyes, then he repeated it on the other leg, and then he stood up and took Melody in his arms. He gently pushed her down on the counterpane and said, “I don’t think I can take it slow this time. I need you too badly, and I can’t wait to have you. Lie back with your bottom at the edge of the bed.” Melody felt so exposed, but she loved the way Henry was staring at her, and it made her feel hot all over.

  Henry started tearing off his clothes, and soon he was completely naked. She looked down and saw how aroused he was. His shaft was huge and engorged. He pushed her thighs wide apart and thrust into her tight sheath as her inner muscles clinched around his shaft. He was so aroused that he was shaking with desire as he began to pump into Melody and ride her hard. She was tossing her head from side to side from the ecstasy of it all. Henry rubbed her core. She could feel moisture dripping from her body, and then she came apart; sensation after sensation rolled over her. Henry made his last thrust and shouted out her name with his release as his seed filled her. Then he collapsed on top of her; both were breathing heavily, and it took awhile for their breathing to slow down to normal. Henry gently pulled out and climbed into bed while gathering Melody in his arms. Shortly after, she opened her eyes, and he was watching her intently.

  “Melody, I love to see your face all flushed with passion,” he said. “That’s when you are most beautiful to me. I can’t get enough of you. I could make love to you every minute of the day, and it still would not be enough for me. I love you beyond my wildest imagination.”

  “I love you too, Henry. I’m overjoyed that you’re home again. I’ve missed you dreadfully and counted each minute until you could return to me. How long can you stay?” she asked.

  “I have to be back on Monday … I wish I could stay longer, but it’s just not possible. I’ll be back in plenty of time for Christmas. I know this is hard on you, but it will all be over within a few months. By spring, at the latest, we’ll be able to go to my estate up north. That way you can be closer to your parents,” he said. “I gather my parents haven’t been pleasant. I was afraid of that. I’ll speak to them and let them know I expect them to treat you better.”

  Melody looked at him and said, “Henry, don’t say anything. It hasn’t been that bad, and your brother and sisters keep me entertained most of the time. Nelson and I have been going riding, whenever the weather permits. Just as you said, it will only be for a few more months, and then we can go north. I do look forward to seeing my parents again. I received a letter from my mother, and she told me that my father has been feeling bad lately. Nothing to worry about, mainly it’s his rheumatism acting up.”

  Henry stroked her pretty shoulders as he said, “Well, I won’t say anything right now, but if they become more difficult, then you need to let me know, and I’ll handle it. You’re too important to me, and I won’t let anyone mistreat you. I’m thinking about finding a house close by my garrison, and that way you won’t have to live here. I just don’t know how much time I’ll be able to spend with you, and I hate to think of you being alone. At least here, you have my brother and sisters to keep you company.”

  “Henry, I would rather spend an hour with you than a month with anyone else. I would have Millie for company, and I can always read to fill my time. Do you really think you could find us a place to stay?” she asked, while running her fingers through his chest hair.

  He kissed her on her temple and said, “It may be difficult, but I’ll start looking for a place just as soon as I get back. Right now, I just want to make love to you again.”

  And he did.

  CHAPTER 8

  December 1814

  OVER THE NEXT few days, Henry and Melody spent as much time together as possible. They went riding through the park and took the gig into the village. They made love everyday and Melody was becoming much more comfortable with her body. Henry made her feel so pretty, because he always complimented her on what she was wearing and how she looked. Before they realized it, Sunday had arrived, and they got up and went to Mass. After church, they had luncheon with the family, and then it was time for Henry to leave. They went out to the stables, and he pulled Melody into his arms and gave her a tender kiss. Then he led Jupiter out; he got on his horse and looked down at Melody.

  “Take care of yourself and write me everyday. You don’t know how much your letters mean to me. I’ll write as often as I can and let me know if you need anything at all. If my parents become too unbearable, I’ll find some way to get you out of here. I love you, my darling. See you soon.” Melody stood there
and watched Henry ride away; then she slowly turned and walked back to the house.

  The next couple of weeks went by quickly, because they started getting ready for Christmas. The duchess had everyone helping with the party they held each year for all their family and neighbors. She looked forward to this, because so far, the only people she had met were at church.

  It was getting too cold to go riding, and Melody missed it terribly. Nelson still spent time with her, and she had grown quite fond of him. Since Melody was an only child, she enjoyed having a brother and sisters. It was the best part about living here. She would miss them if Henry was able to find a place for them, but she would still much rather be with him.

  Dinner was the hardest time of the day because there was no way to avoid spending time with their graces. They were so cold and unfriendly, that it made the meal very long. After dinner, the men would stay in the dining room and have their port, and her grace would gather the rest of them and go to the drawing room. Melody always hated this part of the day. Her grace would make little hurtful comments about the way Melody looked and how she acted. Nothing she did pleased Henry’s mother. Helen tried to steer the conversation in another direction, but her grace would always find some way to focus the conversation back on her faults. Once the men joined them, Nelson would get Melody to play chess or cards, and then the evening would go better.

  Thank goodness for Nelson, for he was such a peacemaker. Melody wished he could meet someone to love. She knew he still mourned his wife, but it was time for him to move on and find some happiness in his life. She wanted him to have the kind of relationship she and Henry had. Of course, Nelson did not seem to be interested in doing this. Helen had told Melody all about Nora, and she could understand why Nelson missed her so much. They had been very much in love and had been so excited about having the baby. When she died, it just devastated Nelson. It was hard enough losing their child, but when Nora died also, it was almost more than Nelson could bear. It did not help that their graces were putting pressure on him to remarry. They wanted him to marry Lady Penelope, now that Henry had married Melody. They really wanted to join their properties together. Lady Penelope was the only daughter of the Earl of Stanton, and the property was unentailed, so Lady Penelope would inherit it upon her father’s death. Helen did not seem to like Lady Penelope very much, so Melody hoped Nelson would not feel compelled to marry her. After having been married to someone he loved, he would not want to enter into a marriage, solely for financial gain.