by Linda Ellen
Meeting Pauline’s eyes, the girl offered a slight smile. “Th’ burden feels a bit lighter now…thank you for listenin’, and not making me feel like a…well, you know. I’m dumb, yeah, but Pa raised me to be a good girl. I don’t know what I was thinkin’ to fall for his pack of lies like that. But now, I just…I dunno know what I’m gonna do. I can’t go back to Lincoln. I just…” she gave a helpless shrug.
Pauline held up one finger as an idea occurred. “What if, once your leg heals, you get a job doing something here? While I’m here, which I don’t know how long that will be…” she paused, thinking that if she had her heart’s desire, it would be for good, “I’m helping one of the teachers at the grammar school, a very nice woman named Martha. I was a tutor back home. You could do something like that. I could ask if they could use one more.”
Mary hung her head, looking every bit like there was no hope in the world for her. Pauline had to strain to hear her words. “I couldn’t do that…I can’t…I never learned to read. Never went to school.”
Pauline caught herself before she gasped, stifling her response as she thought quickly about what to say. Mary added, “Pa always said girls didn’t need schoolin’, but I can add and do some figurin’—Hank taught me. I can handle money and make purchases and the like. And…I do know my letters, but…not much else, book-wise.”
Pauline reached out and lay a hand gently on the girl’s shoulder, encouraging her to listen. “Mary, just because you haven’t learned yet doesn’t mean you can’t. How about if I teach you? You could be my private pupil. No one has to know.”
For the first time, Mary’s whole countenance seemed to light up as she raised her head and looked a bit more confidently into Pauline’s eyes. She realized that Mary was actually quite pretty when she smiled, as she was doing now. “Oh Pauline—do ya mean it? I’ve always wanted to learn to read. Pa said readin’ was just wastin’ time. Said he always got on good without it. But…Oh, I want to, so bad.”
“Yes, I mean it. And, we can start right away if you want,” Pauline promised.
The young women were still smiling and making plans for the start of Mary’s first tutoring lessons when there was a knock on the door, and, at their bidding, it was opened by Tobias himself, actually carrying a tray of food.
Toby stopped in the doorway and let his eyes slide from the beauty sitting in the chair to the girl in the bed, and back again. Grinning at his wife, he gave her a nod, and then once again swung his attention to the girl, Mary.
“Hello, there. You seem to be doing well…much better than you were last time I saw you,” he added as he turned and set the tray down on a table near the door.
“Thank you,” the girl answered, exchanging glances with Pauline. “It helps when ya make a new friend.”
He began uncovering the scrumptious goods and sent another smile Pauline’s way. “That’s true,” he agreed, silently celebrating that he and Pauline’s plan already seemed to be taking shape. His wife seemed to be a fast worker and a woman of her word. Just more things to admire about her…
“Mr. Deputy…I wanna thank you for how quick you came to my rescue that night…and for capturin’ that no good and bringin’ him to justice.”
“You’re more than welcome. As for the apprehending—all part of the job, ma’am,” he added, reaching up to playfully tip his hat. He could feel Pauline’s gaze on him, and for the first time in a long time, he felt self-conscious—and wondered if his appearance pleased her…did she think him handsome?
“Is that more of Miss Iris’ cookin’ you got there?” Mary asked with a modest yet hopeful curl to her lips.
“Yep. This time it’s meatloaf and potatoes, with candied carrots, and chocolate pie for dessert.” He uncovered the plate and took a whiff. “Mmm, the aroma is making me hungry. Think I’ll go back and have mine now,” he added with a chuckle.
As he’d hoped, Pauline took his cue and stood up to make her exit as well, smoothing the skirt of her pink flowered dress. It was one he hadn’t seen her wear yet, but he found it especially attractive—and it fit her like a glove. He watched as she picked up the bed tray and set it over the girl’s lap, getting the plate and utensils situated just so and fussing like a mother hen with the napkin Iris had provided.
“Here you go, Mary. That does smell delicious, and I’m just realizing how hungry I am myself,” she laughed almost musically. “Can we do anything else for you before we go?” she added as she stood back and beamed down at the girl.
Mary sent Pauline a genuine smile, as if they had already been friends for years. The sight warmed his heart, and, once again, he reflected on the generous spirit and loving character of this new wife of his. If it was the last thing he ever did, he would figure out how to get her to stay with him!
“No, I’m fine, thank you,” Mary responded. Casting her gaze at him a second time, and then trailing back to Pauline, she addressed them both when she added, “Thank you so much…for everything. There’s some very nice people in this town…I’m findin’. And Pauline, thanks again for what you brought over today, and…” she paused as something seemed to pass between them.
His wife nodded and bent down to give the girl a quick hug before raising back up and moving over to stand near him. To Mary, she said, “I’ll come see you tomorrow evening and bring those things we talked about.”
Then, she turned toward him and smiled, such a happy, confident smile that it completely took his breath away. He felt positively befogged.
“Shall we go back and get some of that yummy meatloaf before it’s all gone?”
All he could manage was a nod, and then he turned aside with a sweep of his arm to allow her to precede him.
Chapter 11
P auline sat back at the desk in her room and read over what she had just written.
Dear Family,
I’ve settled in quite nicely since arriving here—and was greeted by nothing less than a welcoming committee!
I already feel comfortable in this little town called Brownville. I’m finding I enjoy the small-town atmosphere and the friendly people I’ve encountered as I’ve ventured to the shops along Main Street or taken a leisurely stroll with Tobias.
Yes, Tobias. He’s quite wonderful, actually. Livvy, you’ll be thrilled to know that my new husband is dime novel handsome and brave—why, the other evening, he single-handedly tracked, arrested, and brought back a man who had attacked a young woman right out on the street. She had arrived on a steamboat and was a stranger in town. Don’t worry, Mama. Everyone assures me that kind of thing has never happened in Brownville before. People are still talking about it. But regarding Tobias—every encounter I’ve had with him has been immensely pleasant and enjoyable.
My room here at the Larsen House is wonderful, and the home itself is very lovely. Iris, the daughter of the owner, runs the boardinghouse and does the cooking, and she’s quite a good cook. Oh, and I’ve secured a temporary job! I’m working with Miss Martha at the grammar school as a teacher’s helper, and it is already proving satisfying. I feel as if I’m truly making a difference with the students, albeit the end of the term is rapidly approaching. I will tell you, however, that I took the job only so that I wouldn’t be bored—my husband is paying my expenses. He simply wouldn’t take no for an answer.
Pausing for a moment, Pauline thought about whether or not she should share Mary and her situation with her family, but…she didn’t want to go into any intimate details in a letter, and besides, she had given her word to Mary that their conversation would remain private. Silently nodding, she decided not to mention her, although she was quite pleased that her tutoring sessions with the girl were producing results much faster than she’d first anticipated. Indeed, she quickly realized that Mary had a sharp mind and was proving to be a fast learner.
Mama, please be sure to tell Mrs. Fetterman that everything she said about her town and her friends were all true. Each day, since I arrived, I’ve enjoyed interacting with my new friends in
town—especially the Maynard wives. They were thrilled to have a fellow Louisvillian to speak with about the city and what they both missed since their moves here. Charise told me that what she misses the most is browsing the many wonderful products out at Honey Landing. Isn’t that funny? All these miles away and I can chat with someone who fancies Maple Heights’ products as much as I do.
Both Charise and Beth Ann are approaching the time for their deliveries, and both are—in spite of friends advising against it—picking out only names for, in Charise’s case, a girl, and in Beth Ann’s case, a boy. Both of the ladies are maintaining an unshakable confidence that they will get their wishes this time in the gender of their newest offspring. Their amusing rivalry only makes others chuckle and shake their heads.
So, since I’ve had no telegrams since you replied to my initial one when I arrived, I’m assuming there is no news on Mr. Barrows. Do they know if he’s even still in town? Were the authorities able to get back any of the money he cheated people of?
Livvy, how is everything on the job? Any good tips lately?
And DJ, how is your business? This Saturday will be the Derby, so I’ll be praying that you get a lot of extra fares and…
Pauline paused in mid-sentence and looked up as she heard Iris’ dinner bell ringing downstairs. With a smile, she carefully placed the pen back in its holder and rose from her seat to make her way downstairs.
As she’d hoped, Tobias was just coming in the door, and she watched as he took off his hat and tossed it at the pegs on the wall, spearing one on the first try. He ran a hand back through his auburn hair and down his short beard as he acknowledged her with a nod. Then his eyes traveled down the length of her, from the top of her head to her shoes, and she was more than glad she had taken care with her hair that morning, and worn one of her favorite dresses—a pale yellow with tiny, blue flowers. The sparkle in his eyes let her know he was pleased with what he saw.
Iris asked Tobias to say the blessing, and Pauline listened with her eyes closed, enjoying the smooth timber of his voice as he prayed over the meal and everyone at the table. One tradition Iris insisted upon was that everyone hold hands during the prayer, and Pauline loved the feeling of her husband’s warm grasp.
He said, “Amen,” and lingered before releasing her hand, and then the housemates were soon busy enjoying another delicious meal in the boarding house.
The conversation was lively around the table, and laughter plentiful. It was amazing how these people already seemed like familiar friends and Pauline let her eyes roam around the table at each friendly face.
Then, Tobias passed her a bowl of black-eyed peas and their fingers brushed. Pauline felt her face blush pink at the mere touch of his skin. He seemed to instinctively know and he flashed her that grin and wink that always made every thought fly right out of her head. As he dug into his meal with gusto, she managed to rein in her galloping thoughts and enjoy hers as well.
Over the next little while, Pauline allowed herself several long, sideways glances at her husband, appreciating his table manners and the way he filled out the rust colored shirt he was wearing, its sleeves rolled up over his muscular forearms. Today his suede vest had been accented with a cream bandana. The ever-present star glinted in the lamp light; its polished sheen made her smile with pride for the care he took with his appearance. His look was an understated air of self-assurance…as if he got up in the morning, dressed and made sure everything looked right, and then never thought about his image again the rest of the day. Confident without being showy or braggadocio—like that awful Mr. Barrows.
Oh, how she admired this husband of hers! How did she get so lucky? The feeling was like winning a contest and she hadn’t even known she had tossed her name in the pot. That thought made her lips curl into a smile, but she quickly stifled it when those blue eyes swung her way—almost as if her thoughts had been audible.
As the meal came to an end and the boarders began to take their leave, Pauline let her gaze slide to her husband’s again. She gave him an answering smile and nod before he finished his usual request for her to accompany him on an evening promenade.
“It’s a balmy evening, but you might want to take a shawl anyway,” he murmured as he assisted her in rising from her chair and placed his hand lightly at the small of her back. Pauline savored the warmth of his hand through the cotton of her dress. Then, deciding that Olivia would enjoy the little tidbit, she made a mental note to add something of their walks into her letter…Getting-to-know-one-another walks.
“All right,” she acquiesced, grabbing the one by the door on their way out to the porch. Once there, she asked her customary question. “Where to tonight, Tobias?”
He placed his hat on his head and flashed her that heart-jolting grin. “I’ve got a surprise for you. I want to take you to my favorite place.”
Her heart sped up another notch at this. Her mother had told her once that it was a sure sign of interest and affection when a young man wished to share something with you that he classed as a favorite.
She latched onto his arm as he escorted her down the steps and sidewalk, but as they passed through the gate, she realized he was steering them toward a buggy waiting out front, horse harnessed and ready to go.
Curiously, she asked, “Are we going for a buggy ride? How far is it?”
“Yes. I borrowed this buggy from the livery, because where we’re going is not far, but too much to walk and get back before it really gets dark.”
After gallantly assisting and settling her on the worn, black leather seat, Tobias jogged around, climbed aboard, and sent her another pleased grin as he snapped the reins to get the horse moving.
Tobias had been right; it was indeed a warm night. She could feel her husband’s body heat radiating as she sat close to him on the narrow seat. Still, she didn’t scoot away, leaving room between them on the padded bench, as propriety would dictate, but was content to allow her side and arm to nestle against him. He didn’t seem to mind, as now and then he would glance over and give her a cozy smile.
Once onto the road that led out of town toward Nebraska City, Tobias seemed to be in no hurry, but merely relaxed and allowed the horse to set the pace. The thought sent sparks coursing through her. She had a feeling her husband enjoyed spending time with her as much as she did with him, but it amazed her that they already felt so comfortable with one another in such a short time…as if their pairing was meant to be…
Along the way, they kept up an easygoing conversation about their activities during the day—hers at school and his on duty, specifically regarding the arrival of Constable Filkins from Platte City, Missouri, along with several of his deputies.
“And…?” she prompted as he paused in the story. “I can’t believe you didn’t tell everyone at dinner tonight!”
He turned his head and stared fixedly at her, generating a little shiver of thrill at his nearness and the intense look in his eyes as he admitted smoothly, “I wanted to tell you about it first…”
She sucked in a soft breath, allowing herself to lean into him just a bit and let the expression in her eyes tell him his gesture had pleased her.
“And…” he continued, “The constable positively identified Hobbs as a member of the gang that attempted to kidnap his son. He told Sheriff Plasters that the band made the attempt, not for money or ransom, but out of revenge because the constable had put one of their cohorts in jail the week before and was holding him for the circuit judge to hear his case. They thought to force Filkins’ hand and make him release their comrade.”
“Gracious! You mean they did get his son?”
He gave a nod as he steered the buggy around a rather large chuckhole. “Yes. They grabbed the boy as he was walking home from school and had him stashed in a warehouse down at the wharf, but thank God, a witness saw what happened and they were able to get him back in a short amount of time. Not before he was scared nearly out of his wits, though. The constable said his son has had nightmares every night
since.”
Pauline shivered again, however, this time it was with distaste. “Such awful men. Kidnapping children, robbing, stabbing, and who knows what else. Are they going to take him back with them?”
“Yep,” he affirmed. “In the morning. Dave and I, and one of the other deputies, will ride with them on the train the thirty miles to Nebraska City, and then others will lend a hand to go the rest of the way to Platte City. The constable brought three of his men with him. They’re staying the night at the Star.”
“I’m sure Mary will be glad to know that dreadful man is gone.”
“No doubt,” he agreed as he directed the buggy around a bend.
The sun was still fairly high in the blue sky, no hint yet of the vivid colors that would soon become a beautiful sunset, when Tobias slowed and pulled the buggy to a stop. Pauline looked over at a rise that overlooked a long expanse and curve of the Missouri River.
“Where are we?” she asked wistfully.
“Most local folks call this place…” His eyes flashed for just a second and then he smiled, a tad naughtily, she thought before he finished with, “Lover’s Vista…”
“Oh…” she whispered, her pulse speeding up as her gaze locked with his. Mysterious connotations concerning the name swirled in her mind.
Then…she watched his eyes drift down to her lips and then back up to settle on her own and she tingled with a zing of expectation and longing. Would he try to kiss her? Oh heavens, I hope so…
However, he seemed to come to himself and think better of it as he cleared his throat before jumping down from the conveyance, causing Pauline a moment of disappointment.
Then, he turned and placed his hands firmly on her waist, swinging her out and setting her feet on the ground in one smooth motion. Her hands automatically gripped his shoulders and she couldn’t help but notice how his own hands lingered on her sides for several heartbeats, smiling down into her eyes and causing her pulse to speed up again in hopeful expectation.