Chapter 20: Meredith's New Suite
"Derek, Meredith…" Amelia called out to them as they entered, her eyes sweeping over their tousled appearance, a small smile tugging at her lips. "There you are!"
"Yes, we were out for a walk," he said, his arm still around Meredith's waist.
"I see, well, I just wanted to let Meredith know that I have moved her things into her new suite. I cannot have her staying in the governess' room any longer, now that you have announced your betrothal."
"Suite?" Meredith asked, looking up at Derek.
"Yes, for now. Until we are wed." His eyes twinkled at her.
"Show her where it is, Derek. Meredith, the seamstress has been busy making you some new gowns, so you will be suitably prepared for dinner with Her Grace tonight."
"Thank you, Amelia," Meredith said, feeling overwhelmed again.
"Oh, by the way, Amelia, our other guest has arrived," Derek mentioned. "She is not in the best of moods," he said dryly.
"What! She is here already!?"
"Yes, I think she flew on her broomstick," Derek chuckled.
"Derek! That is not very nice..." Meredith giggled, despite herself, and Amelia put her hand to her mouth to keep from laughing out loud.
He shrugged. "I left instructions with Hodges to take Lady Addison to her room. I really do not care to see her, if I don't have to."
Amelia sighed. "Well, I suppose I must go and greet her." She turned to go, as Derek and Meredith quickly ascended the staircase.
"I feel guilty to leave poor Amelia to see that woman," Meredith said softly. "Maybe I should …"
"She can handle herself, do not fear that," Derek chuckled, as he guided her along the corridor. "Now, here is the suite Amelia has prepared for you." He threw open the door, and she looked around in amazement. Huge windows hung with ivory brocade curtains looked out onto the gardens. The huge four-poster bed, with its carved posts, dominated the area. Pale yellow panels of silk hung from the center of the canopy above it, tied back at each bedpost. The bedding was ivory and cream, and rich tapestries covering the walls. Soft creamy rugs covered the oak flooring. Huge bouquets of roses decorated the tables, their soft fragrance perfuming the air.
"Oh my, Derek, it's beautiful!" Meredith exclaimed, rushing to look out the windows. He smiled at her, coming up behind her, and embracing her.
"The best thing is, that my suite isn't far from here," he said, his breath warm against her ear. "For Mother's sake, we need to have separate rooms, but I will come to you once everyone is asleep."
"Very convenient for you, indeed," she giggled.
He nuzzled her throat, and she turned in his arms. "I have become accustomed to falling asleep with you in my arms, Meredith. I do not wish to sleep alone again."
"Nor do I," she breathed, as he claimed her mouth again. She kissed him back, the hot velvet of his tongue assaulting her, as his lean body pressed against her body – her breasts crushing against his chest, his hard length suddenly demanding against her belly. Still kissing, without pausing, he guided her across the room, towards the bed.
"I think we have some time before dinner…." He buried his face against her throat, sucking her on the spot where her pulse hammered, making her shiver, and surrender to his touch as always.
Amelia, meanwhile, had her hands full with Lady Addison. She stopped at the threshold of the room, staring in dismay at the bags strewn about the floor. "My Lady Addison, are you all right?"
"What? Who are you?" Addison demanded, her hands on her hips, glaring at the dark-haired woman standing at the door.
"I am Lady Amelia Winslow, Derek's sister. Welcome to Gracewood Manor, ma'am." She stepped forward, holding her hand out in greeting.
"Ah, Derek's sister – I should have seen the resemblance," Addison said, narrowing her eyes. "You're the widow, aren't you?" She drew the gloves off her fingers one by one, and then slapping the fine leather against her palm.
"Yes," Amelia said, dropping her hand. "Now, is there anything else you require? I can send Belinda up to be your maid for tonight, if you wish."
"Fine, fine. I have had a horrendous trip here today, and I wish to rest. Look at these bags, the calfskin is ruined. That imbecilic footman was far too careless when he brought these up."
Amelia eyed the baggage uncertainly. There did appear to be only a faint mark on one of the bags. But she nodded slightly. "I will speak with him, of course. Will you require a bath before dinner?"
"I will ring if I require anything. Now, will I be able to speak with Her Grace before dinner? We have much to discuss, I believe." Addison stalked to the window and peered outside, seeing only gardens and farmland. How utterly boring, she thought, turning back to look at Amelia.
"I will let Her Grace know that you are here, and available at her discretion. She wishes to speak with you, I know that." Amelia smirked to herself, thinking that Addison was in for a shock. She knew that Meredith had won over any objections Eleanor may have had about her, leaving Addison out in the cold. It would be most amusing to see this haughty woman brought down a notch or two.
"Excellent," Addison said dismissively, turning her back on Amelia again.
"Good day, Lady Addison," Amelia murmured, closing the door behind her thankfully. This visit was going to be too long, even if it was only a day, she thought grimly, as she headed off to oversee the cook about dinner.