Mail-Order Matriarch

by Amelia St. James

  “I’ll be just fine.” Thea looked at Elly and Lindsay. “Tell her I’ll be just fine!”

  “Thea will be careful.” Elly rose and began clearing the dishes from the table, despite the glare Lindsay sent her way. “We all will.” She reached for a cloth to wash the dishes, only to be gently nudged out of the way by Lindsay.

  Before she could protest, Kaitlyn said, “Lindsay will wash, I’ll dry.”

  Elly shook her head, feeling stifled by their protectiveness. Unsure what to do with her hands, she considered that Thea might need food while she was on her hunt. She began slicing bread, feeling a sense of appreciation to have someone to pack a lunch for, even if the women were beginning to smother her.

  She felt at peace while lovingly packing a meal for Thea, wondering what her baby would look like. The thought that she might have some of Alexander’s features made her throat ache with a tightness that took her breath away.

  “I’m ready to go. I’ll be back before the sun sets.” Thea smiled contentedly as she gripped her rifle. “I’m going to make sure you eat plenty of meat, Elly.”

  “You just take care of you.” Elly held out the lunch, resisting the urge to hug the girl as she took it.

  “I will.” Thea turned and left, leaving Elly to wonder if the concern she felt for Thea would ever lessen as the girl’s back faded from sight.

  Chapter Eleven

  Elly stood on her front porch and breathed deeply, sighing in contentment. She hadn’t been out walking without the heavy weight of loss and debts on her mind since Alexander’s passing. She looked up at the clear early morning sky and marveled at how perfectly formed the tiny puffy white clouds were. She inhaled the fresh air and walked down the steps, feeling pain when she stepped, but it joyfully reminded her of the small life she was so anxious to protect.

  She left Kaitlyn and Lindsay behind, hoping the women would work out their differences while she was gone, or at least have a heart-to-heart to set things right. Despite their overwhelming protectiveness and complex relationship, Elly knew they were both kind women and was glad they had come.

  She had begun to feel a small lingering sadness when she thought about the women leaving once they found the perfect husband, but she knew it was what they needed to do. They had to live their lives to the fullest.

  Elly looked down at the gold ring on her finger, twirling it around. The smoothness against her skin belied the rocky pain of loss that came from parting at death. She prayed that those who passed through her house to find their happily ever after would not know the pain she had endured and vowed to do her best to ensure the happiness and safety of each of them.

  Her resolve made her feel like she stood taller against the unknown, giving her a sense of purpose. The peace that came with it made her certain that she’d chosen the right path for herself.

  A carriage rolled past her as she walked, breaking her out of her thoughts. She looked around before crossing the street, pausing outside of the mercantile. It had been a while since she had stepped inside, and she wondered if she had overreacted to Mrs. Holland’s intrusive nosiness the last time she had been there.

  It felt like the woman was excited to watch Elly’s pain grow as if it was entertaining to her, but maybe she had been too sensitive. She paused, trying not to remember all the times she and Alexander had walked through the doors arm in arm.

  Her heart aching with the memories, she hoped that one day she’d feel happiness when she thought of them. As she stared blindly, the door opened and Mrs. Holland stepped out.

  “Why, there’s the lovely widow! I was just talking about you to Donna Murphy only this morning, and she said that she hadn’t seen you. When the new town doc was called to your house, she was sure that you’d tried to hurt yourself in your grief.”

  “Morning, Mrs. Holland.” Elly glanced around her, looking for an excuse to leave. Finding nothing to grasp onto, she forced a smile and said, “I was merely passing by this morning, taking a much-needed walk.”

  “Oh, nonsense. You must come inside. I have a lovely new fabric that you should look at. It’s black since you’re in a state of mourning, but it’s delightfully soft and I think you’ll find many good years of use from it.” Mrs. Holland reached for Elly’s arm and tugged her toward the door.

  Pulling her arm back, Elly said, “No thank you, Mrs. Holland. If I need something from your mercantile, I’ll stop in. Good day!”

  Elly turned and began to walk, feeling her body shake with the effort she had expended in being firm with the town busybody. She knew that there would be a backlash for her behavior, but she no longer cared.

  She heard Mrs. Holland’s grunt of disgust from behind her and suppressed a grin. She might not be out from under the weight of mourning, but she was going to live her life on her own terms.

  She wandered through town and beyond, not having a definite sense of purpose, but letting herself wander until she realized she was nearing Alexander’s tree. She felt the hollow part of her heart fill as she saw the large pine tree looming in the distance.

  It called to her like a memory she hoped she never forgot, begging her to run her fingers over the rough bark. She found the spot where Alexander had carved their initials together and touched each letter. Having a tangible sign that Alexander existed somewhere other than in her memories was a gift to treasure. She’d bring her child to see this spot once she was old enough.

  Elly patted her stomach, daring to speak to her baby now that she was completely alone. “I hope you don’t mind that I call you a ‘she’ for now. I’m convinced that you’re a daughter, and I’m grateful you are here with me.” She felt a catch in her throat at the reminder that Alexander had more than one tangible sign that he’d existed. Their child would keep them bound together for all of time.

  She looked up at the sky, seeing the vast openness and marveling at it. She smiled as her burdens felt lighter to her. She would try harder to find the positives in each day and was grateful that she’d found a measure of peace.

  The walk back to town was equally unhurried, and Elly felt herself relax as she was surrounded by nature. The quiet solitude was rewarding, rather than a punishment now that she had a house full of boarders. A new sense of purpose drove her steps. She needed to be sure the women found the best mates, a task she took very seriously.

  The shutter covering the small post office window was rolled up, causing Elly to pick up her pace in excitement. A young woman was waiting patiently in front of the window, oblivious to her approaching footsteps. Mrs. Murphy leaned forward conspiratorially as she spoke with the customer, her pinched face animated with whatever she was saying.

  Elly stood off to the side, not wanting to eavesdrop. She glanced up at a bird flying overhead, smiling when she saw the beautiful shades of blue. An angry declaration from the young woman in front of her pulled her attention sharply.

  “Why do you presume to tell me what I don’t want to do?” She puffed up to her full height, which was considerably taller than Elly. “If you won’t give me directions and the lady at the mercantile won’t help me, at least tell me who can be of some assistance!”

  Stepping forward, Elly reached out her hand to touch the woman’s arm. She shrugged her hand off as she turned sharply, her face red with anger.

  Elly took a step back. “I don’t mean to alarm you. I just wanted to tell you that I may be able to assist you. What is the problem?”

  Mrs. Murphy huffed, her breath coming out in a sharp rasp of disgust. “This doesn’t concern you.”

  “It concerns anyone in the town who has the decency to give me directions to the boarding house.” Sizing up Elly, the woman said, “Can you give me directions?”

  Brows furrowed, Elly said, “Mrs. Murphy, why wouldn’t you give the woman directions to my boarding house?” Her heart began to pound as she waited for an answer, half afraid to know what trouble the busybody had caused.

  “I don’t think it’s right, you boarding young women under the g
uise of finding them a husband. What kind of reputation are you trying to have?”

  Elly took in a sharp breath, unsure how to respond when the woman next to her crossed her arms and said, “Excuse me, but who are you to tell women who they can board with?” Her lips pursed hard as she tapped her foot, waiting impatiently for an answer.

  “Ladies, let’s take a deep breath and resolve this peacefully.” Facing Mrs. Murphy, Elly said, “Mrs. Murphy, I can assure you that there is no scandal underneath my roof. Now if you’d be so kind as to check for any letters addressed to me, I’d be grateful.” Elly smiled pleasantly, stifling down the unkind remarks that filtered through her head.

  Huffing again, Mrs. Murphy held up an envelope that she’d been clutching and said, “It’s just not right.”

  Elly reached for the letter, having to tug it a little to get Mrs. Murphy to release her grip. “Good day, Mrs. Murphy.”

  She turned and motioned for the woman to follow, her shoulders held high despite her trembling. The woman at her side dragged a trunk by one end as she kept pace.

  “My name is Angelica Truman.” Angelica pushed dark blond waves away from her eyes. “Is everyone around here as friendly as her?” She nodded her head toward the direction they’d come and grimaced. “Awful woman.”

  Elly turned to see Mrs. Murphy leaning forward to keep the women in her sight, but she doubted she could hear them speak. “Not everyone is like that. There are a few busybodies in town, but in general, folks aren’t too bad.” She smiled, thinking of the ladies she lived with. “The women boarding with me are lovely. Are you here in answer to my ad?”

  Blushing, Angelica said, “I am, though I feel quite embarrassed about it now.”

  “No need. Here, I’ll take the other end of your trunk.” Elly reached for the handle, lifting the trunk off the ground. They walked at a comfortable pace, though Elly could tell the taller woman shortened her stride to match Elly’s. The letter in her hand felt like hope had arrived with Angelica.

  “So there are other women waiting for a husband, too?” Sadness flickered across her face.

  “There are.” Studying Angelica’s profile, Elly noticed for the first time a scar that ran underneath the woman’s right ear and along her jawline. She began to wonder if the woman kept her hair down to hide it.

  She caught Elly’s gaze and swung her hair forward, over her shoulder, a sad, wistful expression replacing her blush. “Are they beautiful?”

  Elly paused, blinking hard when the trunk handle almost slipped out of her hand. “I’m sorry.” She quickened her pace and said, “I suppose they are beautiful, but more importantly, they’re kind and gentle. I think they’ll make great housemates. Here we are.” Elly looked up at the stately home filled with memories.

  “Have I upset you?”

  Shaking her head, Elly took a deep breath and composed herself. “Not at all. I was just thinking of my husband who passed.” The familiar ache rose up. “Anyhow, let’s get you inside and introduce you to the ladies. Thea will be along later.”

  Angelica paused a moment before nodding and awkwardly hitching up her skirt to navigate the steps with her trunk. “I hope I find a man of substance.”

  Elly clutched her letter as she maneuvered the trunk up the step, ignoring the pain in her hip. “You want a rich husband?”

  Shaking her head, Angelica said, “Not at all. I didn't mean to imply that. It’s just…” She glanced around as if she was afraid to be overheard. “I want a man who won’t hurt his wife and children.” She swallowed and looked down at her boot peeking out from under her skirts.

  The pain etched on her face made Elly’s heart ache. Meeting her striking brown eyes, Elly wondered how she’d missed the woman’s vulnerability before.

  “I wouldn’t want anything less for you. Shall we take you in to meet the others?”

  Angelica looked back in the direction they’d come as if deliberating, then nodded and followed Elly into the boardinghouse.

  Chapter Twelve

  “Whatever are you doing?” Lindsay pushed past Kaitlyn, glaring at Angelica as she quickly grabbed the trunk handle and nudged Elly aside. “You can’t lift stuff like this.” Her face reddened deeply as she shot Elly a silent reprimand.

  “What’s wrong?” Angelica’s brows rose in alarm. She looked at Elly as if seeing her for the first time before turning to Lindsay. “Why can’t she lift things?”

  “She’s with child. Let’s set this down over there so no one trips over it.” Lindsay set the trunk down carefully and brushed her hands off.

  “I didn’t know you were pregnant. Congratulations.” Angelica smiled sweetly, the skin pulling slightly along her scar.

  “Thank you.” Elly introduced Lindsay and Kaitlyn, pleased to see that the women all seemed to accept each other without incident.

  “This is a lovely place.” Angelica kept her arms crossed in front of her and gently swayed as she looked at the house.

  “It really is lovely.” Kaitlyn’s posture stiffened into perfection. “Let’s sit and get to know each other. I’m sure you’re exhausted after your travels.” She held out her arm for Angelica, smiling primly when the woman linked her arm through hers and walked by her side. “The parlor is my favorite room in the house. I’ll bring us some tea.” She waited until Angelica was seated before swirling toward the kitchen, her skirts making a soft rustling sound.

  Elly sat across from Angelica, noticing that the woman didn't seem to know what to do with her hands. She clenched and unclenched them before tucking them underneath the fabric of her skirt.

  “Angelica, I’m sorry that Mrs. Murphy wouldn’t give you directions to my boardinghouse.”

  Lindsay turned her head sharply toward Angelica. “Why wouldn’t she?”

  Angelica bit her lip in silence, making Elly wonder if she’d actually answer Lindsay. She began to worry that Lindsay’s direct manner had made the shy woman withdraw when she spoke quietly.

  “She said she wouldn’t send me to a house of iniquities.”

  Elly felt her face blush. “That’s a terrible thing to say.”

  “I know. It made me embarrassed when the woman at the mercantile said it, too, but then when they both said the exact same thing, I realized they’re just gossiping busybodies.”

  Elly gasped. She’d never been spoken of in such a manner, and her heart began to pound out a heavy beat of shame.

  Lindsay stiffened, her chin jutting out in the fierce way that Elly had come to appreciate. “Those women need to mind their tongues.”

  Kaitlyn walked into the room with the tea tray, her eyes wide in surprise. “What did I miss?”

  “The busybodies at the mercantile and the post office have been spreading vicious gossip.” Lindsay stood and helped Kaitlyn serve tea and scones.

  “That’s awful!” Kaitlyn looked around the room, her look of outrage settling on Elly. “Whatever will we do about that?”

  “Nothing.” Lindsay’s face was set in determination. “You will do nothing. Those women are waiting for a chance to stir up a scandal, and you won’t draw their focus onto you.”

  Something about her words made Elly feel alarmed. Lindsay had lived through a scandal before, and it drove her from her home. She cared for Elly and Thea a great deal, and it was clear that she was even trying to forge a relationship with Kaitlyn, despite the inexplicable tension that ran below the surface between them. Elly knew her friend was fiercely protective, and wouldn’t be surprised if she tried to take on the aggression from the gossip hounds on her own.

  “Lindsay.” Elly heard the warning sound in her voice, but Lindsay simply smiled and changed the subject.

  “Where did you come from, Angelica?”

  “Care to guess?” Angelica smiled broadly, changing Elly’s opinion of her as a shy woman. The playful look she wore made her eyes sparkle, causing Elly to wonder why the woman had ever hinted that she thought she was homely.

  Kaitlyn pursed her lips as she stared at Angelica. �
�New York?”

  “No.” Angelica smiled slyly, not giving any hints but clearly enjoying the game.

  Lindsay stood and walked closer, dropping down to the ground to take the hem of Angelica’s skirt between her fingers to examine the seam. “I knew a designer who threw stitches like these, and she was in the Camden area the last time I heard from her.” She stood up and smiled triumphantly. “That’s my guess; Camden.”

  “There’s no way you can guess where she lived based on a hem!” Kaitlyn gripped her waist, her hands spreading across her trim stomach.

  Angelica laughed. “I guess you can! I worked in a textile mill in Camden.”

  Lindsay smiled into the back of her hand as Kaitlyn fumed. Clearing her throat, she asked, “So how did you come to meet Holly Anne?”

  At the mention of the designer, Kaitlyn’s eyes opened wide. “I’ve been wanting one of her creations for ages!”

  Taking a sip of her tea, Angelica glanced around the room before speaking. “Holly Anne was visiting the factory when I met her. Saved her, actually.”

  Kaitlyn sat stiffly on the edge of her seat. “How did you save her?”

  Leaning in conspiratorially, Angelica spoke in low tones. “While she was touring the factory, her skirts became bound up in a power loom.”

  Gasping, Kaitlyn said, “I don’t know what that is, but it sounds awful!”

  Nodding, Angelica said, “It could have been, but I was able to keep the lovely Miss Holly Anne safe. I couldn’t save her skirts, though.”

  Laughing, Kaitlyn said, “Well, if that’s all that happened…”

  “How did you come to own a Holly Anne original design? The last I heard, there is a waiting list for her gowns that is quite long.” Lindsay leaned back in her chair, looking relaxed.

  Grinning, Angelica said, “This was gifted to me by her as a way of showing her gratitude. She’s quite incredible, as sweet as she is talented.”