by Annie Boone
All the formality seemed even the stranger, given the joking and lively conversation she had been sharing with the older Mr. Jansen. But there was a crinkle about Nick’s eyes that made her realize he was just play acting, as much is trying to be respectful.
“Well if you two young people could stop staring at each other maybe we could find something to eat for these young’uns,” Emil said jarring Jemma and Nick out of their quiet and steady appreciation of each other.
At the mention of food Tim's stomach growled out loud as if on cue.
“My,” Jemma said. “It’s been many hours since we've eaten anything. At the very mention of something to eat I find myself incredibly hungry. Clearly Tim could use a bite to eat, too.”
Delilah said, “I’m not hungry. Mr. Jansen, tell us another story.”
“Now they'll be plenty of time for that, Miss Delilah. Don't you worry,” and he squeezed her little hand as she had slipped it back in his.
Emil turned to his son, “Nick, Miss Jemma would like to send a message to Janine. Aren’t you heading out that way, toward the Hewitt homestead?”
“Yes, I was getting ready to head that way, Father. I'll be glad to take any message you would like to send, Miss Braithewaite.”
Jemma turned back to the writing desk and wrote on the inn’s stationary:
We are here.
Would love to see you soon.
Your friend, Jemma
She folded it in half and handed it to Nick. He took the note and quickly put it inside his vest pocket and tapping his chest he said, “I’ll have it to her lickety-split,” and then he winked at both the children. They both giggled at his crazy saying.
The door closed behind both the gentleman and Jemma found herself with the first opportunity to look around at their suite of rooms. They must've been given the best room in the house, she thought. She looked around at the fine furnishings. Everything was done perfectly, down to the cut-trim detail around the windows.
***
Nick headed back down the stairs and was almost out the door when his father called to him, “Son, what do you think of that Miss Braithewaite?”
“Well, she seems very tired, if you ask me, Father.”
“Certainly she's tired! She's been traveling alone with two young children. Did you check out that little boy, Tim? He could barely stand still. That boy needs an energy outlet. You should take them on a ride tomorrow. Show them about town and let that little boy get some fresh air.”
Normally Nick would buck at his father’s interference into his personal life. But the idea of spending time with Jemma Braithewaite appealed to him in every way. He surprised both of them when he replied, “I think that's a fine idea, Father. I’ll do just that.”
“Well, then. When they come down for dinner I'll be sure to tell her she has some plans for first thing on the morrow.”
“Now father don't get too excited. I'm being gentlemanly and welcoming because it’s my job. I’ll merely be acting as the inn host and showing the newest visitors around.”
“You wouldn't do it if she wasn’t a beauty,” Emil said under his breath as Nick went out the door.
Then Emil realized that it didn’t matter how he got Nick to start a courtship, it only mattered that he encouraged him to meet nice women who were new to the area.
***
Meanwhile, Jemma was preparing herself and the children to be able to come down to supper.
When she looked in the mirror she realized how disheveled she was. Her hair had come loose around her face from the tight bun. The curls she tried so hard to control were springing up around her face, the same way Delilah’s did.
She looked at the dark circles under her eyes for the lack of good, consistent sleep. Then it occurred to her, Nick Jansen had seen her looking a fright.
“Oh, gads. That isn’t the best way to make a good first impression. Nothing to be done about it now,” Jemma said aloud.
Delilah heard her aunt speaking and wondered what she said.
“Did you say something, Aunt Jemma?” Delilah asked.
Tim spoke up in the silence and said, “No Delilah, she was just talking to herself. Our aunt Jemma does that.”
Both children looked at each other and broke out in laughter. Jemma was so grateful for their jovial attitude she decided not to say anything about them laughing about her. Another day she could work on their manners. But today laughter was definitely the best medicine. She broke into a low giggle herself.
Chapter Nine
When Nick returned from the Hewitt homestead, he went straight to Jemma’s rooms and knocked lightly on the door.
“Good evening, Miss Braithewaite. Mrs. Hewitt didn’t have a moment to sit down and write a proper note, but I assured her I could deliver the message directly to you. She would like you and the children to come to dinner tonight.”
“How nice of her,” answered Jemma.
“Of course you’re welcome to dine here at the inn any time you like. Everyone around says we do have the best food in town.”
Nick was doing what he always did – taking excellent care of the guests at his hotel. The need for this woman to like and approve of what he did was sky high. He wasn’t sure why it was so important for him to impress her.
“I’m very excited about seeing Janine again. So I do think we will have dinner at the Hewitt’s home. But, Mr. Jansen, I’m sure we’ll enjoy the delicious meals here, too, during our stay. Janine was so kind to recommend your inn. She had nothing but wonderful things to say about it and also about your family.”
Nick realized he was blushing slightly at Jemma’s compliments. What was it about this disheveled young woman with two young children that intrigued him so? He had never responded to another woman as he seemed to be responding to Jemma.
“I’ll be happy to take you in the carriage to the Hewitt Homestead,” Nick blurted before he could stop himself.
“Oh, that would be so helpful. Thank you, Mr. Jansen.”
“Could I drive the horses when we go?” Tim asked. He spoke up from the other side of the room when they hadn’t even been aware he was paying attention.
Nick turned to look at the boy. “Do you know how to drive a team of horses?”
“Oh I do! My dad taught me everything about horses. He said I was the best horse master he had ever seen.”
Just then little Delilah piped up and said, “He's real good at mucking out the stalls. Daddy said that, too.”
At that very real comment, all of them laughed.
“Well, all right then. I think I know who to call when it's time to clean the stable.”
“Aww, Delilah! Why did you have to go and tell him that?”
“Let’s allow Mr. Jansen to go now. I'm sure he has lots of work to do. Mr. Jansen, when can we expect to leave to go to the Hewitt home?”
“How about I meet you in front of the inn at half past five?”
“Perfect. It will give us just enough time to get ready. Thank you for your kindness.”
“It’s my pleasure,” Nick replied. He realized he was looking forward to spending a little time with this woman and her children. This wasn’t something he was doing because it was his job to be nice.
He stood outside the closed door for a moment and took a deep breath. Then he headed down the back stairs that led to the back of the property. He’d get the horses ready and make sure the carriage was clean and shiny to drive Miss Braithewaite and the children to their dinner engagement.
***
Jemma closed the door and leaned against it. She briefly closed her eyes and soaked in the wonderful site of Nick Jansen filling the doorway. But knowing the children were watching she quickly busied herself with lying out their clothes for the evening.
“Tim, get yourself washed up and then change your clothes. I’ve laid out what you need to wear tonight.”
“Why can’t I just wear this?” the boy asked.
“Because you’ll be meeting new people and you’l
l want to look your best.”
He nodded and got up to do what he was told even thought it was clear he thought it was a waste of effort.
“Delilah, come here and let’s get you changed into a clean dress.”
Delilah was less fidgety than usual and for that, Jemma was grateful. She’d have more time to choose the perfect dress for the evening.
Jemma took extra care with her own appearance for this outing. Everyone in Cutter’s Creek had seen her looking her worst. Messy hair and a pale, drawn face wouldn’t be the way she presented herself tonight.
She left her hair down as Janine had suggested on the train. She felt like it probably wasn’t proper, but she wasn’t at home where everyone knew what she did. The opportunity to spruce up a bit without scrutiny was a welcome change.
None of this meant that she wasn’t grieving her loss – it just meant that she understood that life goes on.
Chapter Ten
Prompt as usual, Jemma and the children walked out the front door of the inn and saw Nick with his carriage and team of two beautiful chestnut brown horses waiting for them. He stepped down to help them get into the carriage. His eyes lingered on Jemma and she felt a flush creep up her neck. It was an unexpected feeling, but she liked it.
Tim remembered Nick had promised he could drive so he clambered up into the front bench. He didn’t look for permission and he didn’t need any help getting up there.
Jemma and Delilah climbed into the back with Nick’s hand to steady them. Nick climbed in beside Tim and noticed he had the reins in his hands. He turned and looked at Jemma and shrugged with a smile.
“Take it away then, Tim. Let’s be on our way. Just go straight for now and I’ll give you directions as we go.”
Tim may have been small but it was obvious he knew a thing or two about horses. As expertly as an eight-year-old can, he drove the horses straight down the main street. Jemma was proud of him and Nick was quite impressed.
He turned to look at Jemma and both their eyes flashed when they connected. He gave a quick wink. “Your brother seems to have done a good job teaching his son about horses.”
Jemma’s heart rate escalated at the bond she felt with Nick. It was a special moment for her even though it only lasted for a split second. And it warmed Jemma's heart to hear such praise for her brother. “Yes, it appears so.”
Delilah reached out and slipped her hand into Jemma’s gloved hand. Jemma thought her heart could not hold any more love for these children. She lifted a silent prayer. Oh Lord, guide me as I help them through their grief and get through my own. Help me make the right decisions. Amen.
It wasn’t a long ride out to the Hewitt homestead and Tim took direction from Nick perfectly. As they pulled up in front of the long and sprawling home, Jemma took in the scene of the children, animals, the vegetable garden and flowers, and the noise and laughter of a happy home.
Janine hurried through the front door, excited to see her friend and meet the precious children.
“Jemma, I’m so excited to see you! And you must be Mr. Tim Braithewaite and you my beautiful little girl must be Miss Delilah Braithewaite.”
Tim showing his fine manners tipped his head said, “Yes, ma'am. I'm Tim and this is my sister.”
“Well, hop on down here and let me introduce you to my twins. Boys come on over here I want you to meet some new friends,” called Janine excitedly.
The boys dropped what they were playing with and hurried over to the carriage as the children hopped down from the benches.
“This is Jacob and this is Nathaniel. Boys, this is my dear friend, Jemma, and Tim and Delilah. Jemma is their aunt. You know Mr. Jansen, so say hello to him, too.”
The Hewitt boys said a round of hellos and it was clear they wanted to get back to what they’d been doing.
“All right, then. Why don’t the four of you go have some fun before supper. But please don’t play in the dirt and need a bath!” Janine called out as the children scampered away around the corner of the house.
Jemma looked concerned and started to go after them when Janine stopped her with a gentle hand on her arm.
“They’ll be fine, Jemma. They’re used to running and playing. My boys know the rules and the farmhands are out at the bunkhouse. They are practically all uncles for my boys so they’ll keep a lookout for them.
“Nick, Thad has just arrived and is around back at the barn rubbing down the horses. I'm sure he would love for you to say hello.”
Janine looped her arm through Jemma’s and led her into the house. Jemma immediately felt the warmth and love in the light-filled front room. The furniture wasn’t fancy but comfortable. That made Jemma more comfortable.
Janine immediately asked, “How was your journey, Jemma? How was it with the children? I’m sure it was difficult.”
Jemma recounted the journey from the point where Janine had exited the train. She found it easy to share the sad details with her as well as the good things that had come from bonding with her brother’s children.
***
As Jemma and Janine were renewing their friendship, Nick was about to go around back to speak to his good friend, Thad. Before leaving, he stuck his head inside the front door to let the women know where he’d be. When he did, he overheard a bit of the conversation.
Not meaning to eavesdrop but being transfixed with Jemma’s sweet and smooth voice he stood for a moment and listened.
Jemma’s voice was full of emotion as she finished telling Janine of the great sadness and grief she encountered in Lewiston.
“The entire place was heavy with sadness. It was as if the fire not only took my brother and sister-in-law, but took the very life and spirit out of that place. I’m sure in a small, close-knit town a tragedy connects everyone. It made me understand how much Billy and Sylvia meant to the town.”
Nick shook his head and closed the door silently. Realizing he was getting a bit emotional at her story, he headed back for a quick word with Thad. After he caught up with the happenings in the past few weeks, he went in through the back door to find the women.
“I’m about to head back to the inn. I’ll be happy to come back and fetch you all later if you'd like,” he said when they looked up and saw him standing in the doorway.
“No need for that, Nick. Thad can run them back into town. Besides, we have no idea how long we will talk, do we Jemma?”
“All right, then. Perhaps I’ll see you first thing in the morning, Miss Braithewaite?”
“Of course, Mr. Jansen, we’ll see you at breakfast, I’m sure. Thank you again for your kindness. Driving us out here was out of your way and I appreciate it.”
“My pleasure,” Nick replied and walked to the front door. He turned to look at Jemma before he opened the door and went out.
***
Dinner was fun and chaotic and full of boisterous laughter and noise. Just what Jemma and the children needed. All the children showed their best manners asking if they could be excused from the table. Before the affirmative words were spoken, the children's feet hit the floor and they were out in the backyard playing.
The adults headed out to the back porch. They could watch the children and still enjoy some adult conversation.
“Don't you just think Nick Jansen is the most handsome thing you've ever seen?” Janine asked abruptly.
“I’m right here, Janine,” Thad said with a chuckle.
“I know that, dear, I was asking Jemma. Of course, I believe you’re the most handsome man alive.”
With that he bent down with a soft kiss on her forehead and said, “If you ladies will excuse me, I’ll go and prepare the carriage to head back before dark.”
“That’s probably a good idea, though I really hate to see you all go,” said Janine.
“Well, those children are going to pass out with all the running around they’re doing. Unless Miss Braithewaite wants me to carry them upstairs to their room we’d better start heading back sooner than later.”
; Thad looked at his wife to get her agreement. She nodded and he headed in the direction of the stables.
Jemma realized the time had flown with her friend and it was indeed time to head back to the inn. She was looking forward to a good night of rest. She was still exhausted.
Hopefully the children would sleep well after their intense play time with the Hewitt boys. Jemma had wondered if the age differences between the children would prevent them from playing nicely together.
The Hewitt children and the Braithewaite children had gotten along like they’d known each other forever. The twins were just as comfortable playing with Delilah as they were playing with her older brother, Tim.
Little Delilah looked as if she could not take another step. She came up on the porch and crawled up in Jemma’s lap. She was asleep almost immediately after Jemma started rubbing her back.
Thad pulled the wagon around to the back of the house where the ladies were sitting and ordered, “All aboard!”
The boys laughed with delight.
Jacob and Nathaniel asked, “Might we go with you, Papa?”
“Of course! Hop on in back, but ladies in front.”
The wagon was a durable farm type with the large hauling space in the back and one long bench in front. It wasn’t as comfortable as Nick Jansen's fancy carriage had been. But the boys didn't seem to mind. As they clattered down the dirt road back towards town, it seemed to be great fun to be bounced to and fro on the wooden planks.
“Thank you so much, Mr. Hewitt. That was awfully fun. Could Delilah and I play again tomorrow with Nathaniel and Jacob?” said Tim.
“We don't know what our plans are yet tomorrow, let's just wait and see. But I promise you will be back to play with your friends before you know it.” She turned and thanked Thad.
“Please tell Janine, again, how much I enjoyed our dinner and your hospitality. It was as if we have known each other forever.”
He chuckled and replied, “Jemma, I think you’re an old friend already. It was my pleasure finally meeting the woman my wife could not stop talking about.”