The noise from the arrival of several carriages alerted the household to their presence long before the party of travelers had reached the door. "What do you think of Devonshire House, Em?" David said.
"How many people live there?"
"It varies with the season," David offered his arms to Emeleth and Amanda and with one sister on each arm he approached the door. Nigel stood at the door and bowed them in.
"It's good to see you home Viscount St. Greer."
"It is good to see you too Nigel. This is my wife Viscountess Em and her sister Lady Manda. I believe you know everyone else." Nigel greeted the guests. "Is my father in house?"
"Yes my Lord. He and the other Viscountess await you in the library." Coats and hats were taken by the house staff and the group of travelers escorted to the library. Jenna and her daughters had tea prepared and seating arranged. Patricia simply rushed to Jenna and the twins embraced with tear filled eyes.
"Father, may I introduce you to Emeleth, my wife and Amanda her sister." The old Marquess was smiling with delight as he hugged the new family members.
"An American woman!" Victor said, "I approve, nothing like new blood to invigorate the family." David was surprised by his father's reaction and was simply rendered speechless. Jenna rescued him and continued with the introductions. Jennifer, Kimberly, Stephanie and Amanda appeared to bond easily and were laughing and engaged in their own private conversation. The maids that traveled with them and Sean were taken to the servants quarters and assigned rooms. Two of the young cleaning maids were reassigned as ladies maids for Emeleth and Amanda and were pleased by the raise in status and pay. They were admonished to do well in the responsibility conferred by the new position and if they did the assignment would be permanent.
Jenna sensing the weariness of the travelers suggested that they would be better served if every one would be allowed to rest and freshen up. They would all meet again for dinner. Jennifer and Kimberly had arranged for the new girls to simply move in with them in what had been the nursery which they had renamed 'the dorm' and they raced off in a most unlady like fashion to their private domain. Jenna simply laughed at them as they excitedly left the library.
"So much for peace and decorum," she mused.
"We have to much peace and decorum," the Marquess said, "it's time for a change."
"These are our rooms," David said. He had surprised her by simply sweeping her off her feet and carrying her in.
"It's huge!"
"Actually it one of the smaller suits. It has only one bed chamber, not the usual two."
"Why two?"
"Lords and ladies usually occupy their own room with a parlor between them."
"So where are you going to sleep?" Emeleth said coyly while smiling with mischief.
"With my lady." Emeleth laughed in response.
"You seem rather sure of yourself."
"Admit it Em, you find me irresistible."
"You do amuse me, and you you keep my feet warm," she whispered.
"Is that all I'm good for?"
"And you are really good at other things," she said coyly then added, "I like your father."
"I thought you were frightened to meet him."
"I was...he's a Marquess and I'm just a girl from Abilene."
YOU ARE READING
The Cowboy's Lady
RomanceA Cinderella tale from the old west Emeleth watched as the cowboy walked across the dance floor approaching her. Her emotions were mixed. She was elated he had taken her to the dance. He excited her too she had to admit. He had said he would come an...
