Chapter Eleven
Millyhad to admit that the change in her charge was quite something. Although some of the sparkle Apple-blossom now carried in her eyes was due to Mr. Howard, the rest was from her guidance.
The girl had confided in her that Mr. Howard was to approach Lord Wimplestow and offer for her after the ball. It was an excellent match for both parties, but even more so as they were so obviously in love.
Beneath her thick blue cloak, Apple-blossom was dressed in pale mint, her hair styled simply with a matching ribbon around her head. She wore long white gloves and slippers, and looked every inch a lady.
“You look lovely, Apple-blossom.” Milly touched her arm. “And while I know you are no longer seeking a husband, please remember what we have discussed, and if you have need of me, you need only look. I shall be seated nearby.”
“Daniel will be here, Milly. I wish to dance only with him.”
“But you will not do so, as it is not the done thing,” Milly warned.
The girl clapped excitedly. “None of your silly rules can dampen my happiness tonight, Milly. I will live close to my family, and Daniel and I enjoy the same things.”
“I am happy for you, my dear, I really am, and they are not my silly rules, but those that govern society.”
“Society that I will never have to be part of.”
Apple-blossom hugged her hard, making several of Milly’s ribs creak.
“I cannot wait for Daniel to talk to Father!”
Milly looked around when she was released from the highly inappropriate hug she had secretly enjoyed. Flaming torches lit the path into the hall as they followed several other guests. Snow had fallen, was banked on either side, and everyone was walking with care in case ice would have them off their feet. Music and the rumble of voices greeted them through the open doors as they drew near.
She had tried to persuade Lady Wimplestow not to make her attend this evening, but the woman had insisted. She’d called a seamstress to Wimplestow House and had an old dress of hers altered for Milly to wear, and now here she stood.
What if someone recognizes me?
Her cheek rolls were in place, as were her glasses, padding, and lace cap. Milly would also ensure she stayed in corners or seated out of sight. She could do no more than that.
Up ahead, Lord and Lady Wimplestow were entering the building. She was determined to avoid Lord Ellsworth. The man was getting to her. His humor, his intelligence, his... well just about everything about him she had once loved, she seemed in dire peril of loving once again. Not the kisses, however; those she had enjoyed, but they worried her. She did not want to believe him the type of man to kiss a servant.
Milly adjusted Apple-blossom’s gloves once they were ready to enter the hall.
“You will do wonderfully.” She felt a pang in her chest as she looked at the girl. Excitement sparkled in her eyes, and she remembered that feeling. Her first entrance into society had been thrilling.
“Thank you, Milly. I wonder if Daniel is already here?”
“I am sure he will be. Now enjoy your evening, Apple-blossom, and remember at supper to nibble, not gulp.”
The hall was large and noisy. Fires roared in the grates, and large chandeliers cast flickering light over the guests. Once, Milly would have looked down on such a countrified scene as beneath her, but no longer. She thought it lovely. Looking at the guests, she recognized several faces, and knew many had come to Stonleigh for the ball. It was imperative no one notice her, so she would find somewhere to hide, but be ready should Apple-blossom need her.
Lord and Lady Wimplestow were soon in conversation with friends, leaving Milly and their daughter alone.
“Do you see anyone you wish to speak with, Apple-blossom?”
“I do. Over there is Miss Elizabeth Barratt.”
“Then go, and I shall be nearby.”
She found a shadowed corner where two elderly ladies stood chatting.
“Good evening.”
“Good evening.”
Milly settled herself against the wall. The chairs, she noted, were occupied already, and as they were in a well-lit part of the hall, she was happy to stay where she was.
