The Secret of Hollyfield House, Jude Bayton [books for 20 year olds txt] 📗

Unlike my previous experience at Mountjoy House, and perhaps in an effort to erase unhappy memories, the place had a festive and jolly air. No society lecture tonight, but rather a gathering of people with a common love of art and literature, not science.

It was thrilling putting on the lovely gown at Hollyfield. Evergreen’s maid styled my hair in a loose chignon and dusted a light amount of rouge on my cheekbones and my lips. I felt transformed. But I looked nothing as exotic as my friend. For when Evergreen descended the stairs down to the hall, we collectively gasped. Still respecting the colours of mourning, she was attired in a magnificent black silk Indian sari, the fabric shimmering under small beads of jet. She looked particularly stunning. Her hair was swept into an elaborate arrangement of curls with pieces of jet liberally placed through her gold tresses. The tunic was tailored to hug her body and reached just above her knee. Matching trousers clung to her shapely legs, and on her feet she wore ornate slippers.

As we entered the house, Evergreen elicited much attention from both the ladies and the gentlemen, though for different reasons I knew. I did not mind. I was happy to bask in her shadow as long as Dominic liked how I looked this evening.

In the drawing room, Mr Wilkie Collins, the guest of honour, struck me as a formidable looking gentleman. He held court with a number of his admirers while Louisa stood sentry at his side. Lady Mountjoy looked lovely tonight. Her dark beauty was complemented by a ruby gown, her eyes warmed to the colour of brandy in the soft light of the room. She saw me come in and gestured for me to approach.

I joined her with some trepidation. I had never before met anyone of Mr Collins’ ilk. Not only was he famous, but someone I greatly admired.

“Wilkie, here is a dear friend. Jillian Farraday, please meet Mr Wilkie Collins.”

He extended a hand, and I shook it. He peered at me through his spectacles, and his eyes went straight to my neck.

“Why, is that a moonstone you have there, Miss Farraday?” He was smiling. I automatically reached to touch the pendant. I had fashioned a chain of sorts so I might wear it. It hung on a thin piece of leather.

“It is, Mr Collins. Though I do not know its origin, it belonged to my mother. I believe it is from India.”

He nodded enthusiastically. “Most likely, I’ll be bound. They mine for ’em, near Kashmir. My favourite stones. Find ’em fascinating.”

“Yes, dear,” Louisa agreed. “Hence the title of your book. Have you read The Moonstone, Jillian?”

“Oh, yes. It is a wonderful book. I have read it more than once. I do enjoy your work, Mr Collins and should like to thank you for it.”

“Pleasure, my dear,” he said kindly. I was then aware of others waiting to meet the author. I made my excuses and stepped away.

When Dominic arrived, I sensed, rather than saw him. I smiled at him as he stood speaking with Perry, and they both approached.

“What do you think of our Miss Farraday, Dom? Does she not look elegant?” I looked at Dominic’s face to see his reaction and saw his eyes darken as they raked over my costume.

“Jillian, you look stunning,” he said quietly, and I could not help the smile that found my lips. “The colour,” he continued, “It brings out the copper in your hair, and your eyes are shining like emeralds. You look like someone from a mystical world.”

“I am sent from Merlin’s court, perhaps.” I laughed, enjoying the attention and feeling more feminine than I ever had before.

“And what do you say of my outfit, Dom?” A voice purred from behind. Evergreen stepped forward, and I watched Dominic’s face register surprise. He took a few seconds to respond, and I felt a twinge of jealousy.

“What a lovely sari. Most unusual to see in this part of the world. You look wonderful. I am sure you will be the talk of the village,” he said.

“I believe that’s the intent, old boy,” muttered Perry. “She does like getting the tongues wagging, does she not?”

“Oh, bother to the both of you,” Evergreen snapped. She took my arm. “Come, Jillian, let us go and find someone interesting to talk to. These boys are tiresome.” She led me away before I could protest. I glanced over my shoulder at Dominic and raised a brow. He grinned.

After much conversing with several of the other guests, we made our way to the dining room when dinner was announced. I found to my relief, that I was to sit next to Uncle Jasper. Victor LaVelle would be directly across from me.

I counted at least twenty for dinner, and I had never attended such a grand affair. Mr Collins was feted and praised, and the food was outstanding. I did not speak to Victor, for the table was too broad and full of dishes and concoctions. He seemed busy engaging with the people next to him. But I noticed on more than one occasion that when I happened to look up, I would find Victor’s eyes on me, his expression curious as though he thought something odd. Was it my dress? Did I indeed appear so changed that he did not like it? Dominic was seated several places down the table from me. I was disappointed not to have his company, but I knew he would not be bored as he sat next to Evergreen, whose laughter I heard throughout the meal

After dinner, we ladies left the gentlemen to their cigars and Evergreen came instantly to sit by me. “Is this not fun?” she said with a twinkle in her eye. “I am so relieved to be out of the house. Are you enjoying yourself, Jillian? Have you been much admired?” She was proud of her handiwork in my appearance, and I thanked her once