“Then we’ll take the steamboat,” Jenny said.
Determined to forget Nicholas, she vowed a new life for herself and her babies.
Nicholas returned to the house and sought out Jennifer.
Hattie watched him race from room to room, calling for Jenny.
“She and the babies have done left, Mister Grant. Lily and that strapping Indian went with her.”
Nicholas pumped her for all the information he dared. “Thanks, Hattie. Go to your family. Come back tomorrow to resume your tasks.”
“Yes, Sir,” Hattie answered.
Suddenly a thought struck Nicholas. Zachary had also left the premises today. He slammed his fist into his hand. Jenny ran off with Zachary! Torn between chasing after her and never looking upon her sweet face again, he became obsessed as never before. Lonely for Jenny’s presence, he went into the study and poured himself a drink, then another. He ached from losing her yet again, and in his solitude, Jenny’s face came to mind. He recalled the laughter, the intimate times they had spent together, the birth of their children.
Hours passed and several drinks later, he stumbled to his chambers, a very disenchanted man.
Chapter 20
At Stops Landing, Jenny sent a message to her father, telling him of her plans and requesting funds. Trying not to upset him, she stressed she was leaving for only a brief period until she could sort out her troubled thoughts. Although, in her heart, she knew that she would never see Nicholas again.
Jenny promptly received an answer with more than enough money to cover her expenses. Vowing to pay her father back every cent, she prepared to buy passage for the five of them.
Nakao stopped her from completing the transaction. “I am able-bodied and will sleep on deck,” he said.
Jenny knew he was resolute and to refuse him would be an affront to his character. “As you wish,” she replied. She paid the clerk and dropped the extra currency into her reticule. “Let’s move along.”
Jenny found the Marylou filled to capacity as she moved through the throng of people to find her cabin. Once inside, with Lily’s help, they laid the twins in the narrow berths and tended to their needs. Jenny glanced about their small quarters.
“It’s a mite cramped, Lily, but at least we are free to move about the ship. Let’s eat in shifts. You can watch the babies while I dine, then take your meal with Nakao before we settle in for the night.”
Lily’s expression brightened. “Thank you, Jenny.”
The following day as they moved downstream, Jenny stood at the side of the ship watching the waves roll by, her thoughts torn asunder. Why did Nicholas keep it a secret about the deed? He inherited his uncle’s plantation. What did he have to gain by buying Father’s farm? Reflecting on Nicholas brought her pain, so she shoved him to the recesses of her mind. She recalled her last ride on the Marylou and her eventual meeting with the horrific Gilbert Johnson. Thank heaven Nakao came to my rescue.
Seeking a small diversion from her lonely life, she wandered toward Nakao.
“Forgive my meddling Nakao, but isn’t it time for you to marry? I know a very charming and delightful lady who might consent to be your bride.”
“You are already taken,” he answered, a wide grin capturing his handsome face.
“I’m flattered Nakao, but it’s Lily that I speak of. The woman’s heart goes aflutter every time you are near. You cloud her senses, and she can hardly concentrate on her duties.”
“Since our talk in the garden, I discussed marriage with Lily,” Nakao answered. “She consented to be my bride. I wanted to obtained a marriage license, but—” He looked away.
“But what? What are you keeping from me?”
Nakao looked at Jennifer. He paused a moment, then admitted, “Since you wanted to leave the plantation, I had to postpone my wedding plans.”
“You put off your wedding for me?”
“I am committed to you, Jennifer. When your life becomes stable, then Lily and I will marry.”
Jenny clasped Nakao’s hand. “My dear friend, I’m so sorry for holding up a marriage that was meant to be.” She was quiet for moment and then her eyes brightened with resolve. “We can have a shipboard wedding, today. Go tell Lily while I arrange the ceremony.” Before Nakao could respond, she disappeared down the corridor in search of the Captain.
Rapping loudly on the captain’s stateroom, a familiar voice invited her inside. She peered into the room and saw Zachary sitting in the captain’s chair with charts spread on the desk and a quill pen in his hand.
“Zachary!” she blurted. “What are you doing here?”
“I’m delighted to see you, Jenny,” Zachary said, rising to greet her. “Come in and close the door so that we can talk in private. Captain Donavon is a close friend of mine and had the misfortune of a nasty fall. He’s in his cabin nursing a broken leg.” He leaned forward, and a lock of raven hair fell across his forehead. His soft brown eyes bore into hers. “I didn’t mean to startle you by my presence, Jenny. I happened upon Robert at the Hearthside Inn and got that old river itch again. That’s how I came to be here. The question is, what are you doing on the Marylou? Have you and Nicholas planned a vacation, or does business call you to another port?”
Jenny gazed at his handsome face. “Neither, Zachary. She rose from the chair and prepared to leave. “How is your wound? Surely, you shouldn’t be up and about.”
“I am fine, thanks to your dedicated care.” Zachary placed his hand on her shoulder. “What has happened to bring such sadness into those beautiful green eyes, Jenny?”
“Nicholas and I had a heated discussion. I took the babies and left him,” she said. “My maid, Lily, and her intended came with me. They were going to marry after I found the captain, but I see we must delay their wedding until he is in better health.”
“I see,” Zachary said. “You deliberately evaded my question by discussing Lily and her perils. He drummed his fingers on the desk. “The captain’s wits are about him. It’s only his leg that must mend. He’ll be glad to officiate at your friends’ wedding. Bring them here in half an hour, and we’ll see them properly married.” He took on a somber look. “I will not be put off, Jenny. Something is weighing heavy on your mind. Why have you left the plantation?”
“Nicholas chose to believe the worst of me. I couldn’t convince him otherwise.” She averted her gaze, but he forced her to look at him.
“Did it have anything to do with me?”
“Yes,” she softly replied.
“And did he assume we were lovers?”
Again, she answered, “Yes.”
Zachary grasped her hand. “I’m truly sorry that Nicholas misunderstood our relationship.”
Briefly, she squeezed his hand, then released it. “Let’s not speak of my problems, Zachary. Time will heal my wounds.”
“So be it, Jenny, but I must see you again. May I have the pleasure of your company for dinner?”
“I think not, Zachary. If Lily and Nakao marry, I must give them time for a honeymoon and remain with Abigail and Aaron.”
“We have excellent servants on board. Let me send a nanny to your quarters. Where is your stateroom?”
“I can’t,” Jenny protested.
“If you will not acquiesce, I will have a romantic dinner sent to your room and join you for an intimate evening,” Zachary teased.
Jenny caught her reflection in the mirror and saw her cheeks take on a rosy hue. “I’ll be ready at six,” she answered in frustration. She started to leave, then stopped abruptly. “You must understand, only friendship can be between us, nothing more.”
“I understand, Jenny,” Zachary replied.
“I’m in cabin fourteen,” Jenny mumbled, then scurried down the corridor in search of Lily and Nakao.
She found th
em on deck with Abigail and Aaron in tow. Bestowing kisses upon her thriving children, her eyes softened with love. Lily’s blue eyes were sparkling.
“Nakao says we are getting married today,” she exclaimed.
“Yes, and we must go to the captain’s stateroom at once.”
“You knew?” Lily queried, clasping her hands in anticipation.
“Well, sort of, I went in search of the captain to ask him to perform the marriage ceremony.”
A short while later Jenny sat with Abigail and Aaron in each arm, waiting for the ceremony to begin.
Zachary entered the cabin and joined her. “Allow me to assist you,” he said, taking Aaron into his arms.
Two seamen carried Captain Robert Donavon into the room and placed him on a chair and carefully propped his broken leg on a footstool. The captain dismissed the men, then addressed Nakao and Lily. “My apologies for not standing, but the pain is too much.”
Jenny observed him as he smoothed back his thinning, dark hair. His blue eyes lacked luster, no doubt from his malady.
“Are you two ready?” the captain asked. They nodded. “Then the wedding may begin,” he said.
Moments later, Lily and Nakao exchanged wedding vows and became as one.
Zachary whispered something to the steward, then glanced at Jenny. “I hope you don’t mind, but I took the liberty of ordering refreshments. After all, it’s a time to celebrate, is it not?”
“You are most thoughtful,” Jenny answered as she placed the babies, now asleep, in the buggy.
The steward brought in a tray of mouth-watering appetizers and confections, while yet another carried lemonade and coffee for the small wedding party.
While everyone partook of the refreshments, Jenny watched Nakao and Lily from across the room and knew their love ran deep.
“The celebration is over. We must leave the newlyweds to their honeymoon,” Jenny announced.
Zachary grinned, his eyes glittering with amusement. He spoke in low tones to Nakao. “I also took the liberty of assigning you a room.”
A shy smile lit Lily’s face as she glanced at Nakao.
“Lily and I thank you.”
Jenny shared her wedding gift. “I don’t want to see you two until we arrive at Vicksburg.”
Elated by her kindness, Lily and Nakao embraced Jennifer, then the happy couple hurried from the room.
Jenny was about to excuse herself when she heard Robert comment to Zachary. “With no rooms available, where did you put them?”
A mischievous grin spread over Zachary’s features. “In my quarters,” he answered.
Robert lit his pipe. “And where will you sleep?” he asked, his blue eyes momentarily lighting with amusement.
“Do you not have another berth in your room?” Zachary asked.
“I do,” replied Robert, puffing on his pipe.
“Then, there is your answer.” Zachary faced Jenny. “I’ll see you tonight at six. Until then.” Giving her a curt bow, he left the room. Jenny was amazed by his kindness.
Later that evening, Zachary escorted Jenny into the dining hall. Sitting on rosewood chairs, they admired the beautiful paintings that adorned the walls.
Zachary basked in her presence. “The crystal chandeliers highlight your raven hair and bring a sparkle to your eyes,” he said lightheartedly.
Jenny didn’t encourage him but remained neutral with her reactions and conversed in light banter while they waited for their meal.
The steward served them a feast of tender veal, boiled potatoes seasoned with herbs, gravy and dressing, along with stewed tomatoes. After leisurely consuming the savory fare, Jenny wiped her lips with her napkin. “Thank you for a delightful time,” she said, rising from her chair. “Now, I must return to my cabin.”
Zachary placed his hand over hers. “The evening is young, Jenny. May I escort you to the lounge? They have an excellent orchestra.”
She didn’t want to retire and face the lonely night ahead.
“Perhaps for a short while,” she replied and then let him escort her to the lounge. While she sat sipping champagne, she gazed at long mirrored bars jammed with patrons, then to gamblers shuffling cards and magically dealing winning hands. Other guests passed the time dancing.
Zachary began a conversation. “You were kind and tended to me with great dedication when I was injured. Again, I wish to thank you.”
“I would do as much for any wounded person,” she teased. “Doc Jones said I had a special gift for soothing the ill.”
“That you do, Jenny.” Zachary grasped her hand as his words spew forth. “You could flaunt your charms and have men falling at your feet. Yet you only know kindness and innocence. We’re from different worlds, Jenny. You’re sweet and good, while I’m more of an adventurer. The times I’ve spent with you I nearly brought you down to my level, and I deeply regret it. I want to set my conscience at peace.”
Jenny sipped on the champagne. “You don’t have to confess anything to me, Zachary.”
“Oh, but I do, Jenny. When I found you sleeping in the swamp, I never wanted to let you go. I couldn’t bear the thoughts of us parting and wanted to keep you at the caravan. But my conscience got the better of me, and I couldn’t take you from Nicholas and your children.”
“Are you saying you kept me with you against my will?”
He nodded. “I put a sleeping potion in your drink.”
A multitude of emotions raced through her mind. “I should be furious with you, but I hold no ill will,” she said. “I’m grateful you came to your senses. It is I who owes you gratitude.”
“You have a forgiving heart, Jenny, and for that I thank you,” Zachary sighed.
Jenny brought the goblet to her mouth and glanced over Zachary’s shoulder. From across the crowded room, a familiar face caught her eye. Preacher Gilbert Johnson was playing cards. She gasped. Zachary saw her reaction and followed her gaze. “Do you know that man, Jenny?”
“Yes. When I ran from you at Vicksburg, Preacher Johnson tried to rape me.”
“Gilbert Johnson is a con man and preys on the lonely and rich alike. He convinces others to steal for him so that he can become wealthy. He’s not a man of the cloth.”
“Gilbert is not an evangelist?” Jenny gasped, recalling her encounter with him. “What a despicable way to make a living. I knew he was sinister, but I had no idea that he was an imposter, too! This is certainly a night for shocking news.” She rose to her feet. “I would like to retire to my room.”
Zachary placed his hand protectively over her arm. “I’ll see you to your cabin, Jenny.”
As they walked to the door, Jenny again caught sight of Gilbert. With intensity, his gray eyes swept over her form, then locked on her eyes. With a quick wink of the eye and a taunting grin, she feared she had not seen the last of him.
Jenny left the casino with Zachary. The moon shone above them as they slowed their pace and strolled along the deck. When they arrived at Jenny’s stateroom, Zachary took her hand and gently pressed her ivory skin against his lips. “I hope you can forgive me for my wayward actions. I’ll forever try to make it up to you.”
“Let’s just let the past lie,” Jenny said. “Goodnight, Zachary.”
She entered the cabin and found Aaron and Abigail sleeping.
Lavina, the robust nanny, sent Jenny a dazzling smile. “Your babies are a delight to care for, Mrs. Grant. Please send for me anytime.”
Once Lavina had left, Jenny disrobed and slipped into her negligee. Dousing the light, she gazed out the porthole and watched the waves roll by. The lanterns from the ship gave off a warm glow as the stars twinkled above in the clear midnight sky. Silently she cried out for Nicholas as she envisioned his face upon the rushing waters. Tears of loneliness slid down her cheeks, and sudd
enly, she felt weary and forsaken. Heartsick, she made her way to the berth. I must fight this feeling, she inwardly chastised, but it was a long time before sleep claimed her tear-streaked face.
Upon arriving at Vicksburg, Zachary escorted Jenny from the ship. Tenderly, he kissed her hand. “I know where your heart lies, Jenny, so I regretfully must bid you farewell. I’ll always have a special place for you in my heart. Yet, I know it’s Nicholas whom you pine for, and I could never fill that void in your life.”
“What will you do, have you any plans?”
Zachary smiled. “Perhaps I’ll return to my wicked ways and pursue the ladies, flirting outrageously and breaking their quivering hearts. Maybe then I’ll be able to forget you.” Taking one last lingering look, he left her standing on the pier and then returned to the ship.
Nakao and Lily stood a good distance from Jenny with the twins.
Jenny strolled up to Nakao. Smiling, she reached for Abigail. “Carry the bags, please, Nakao,” she instructed, and together they went into the thriving city of Vicksburg.
Jenny recalled her previous visit when she had run from Zachary into the forest. She didn’t even have a chance to see the sights, but things had changed now. “Let’s take a room at the Vicksburg Inn,” she said, walking the short distance to the log and limestone building.
Once settled, Jenny left the babies in Lily’s care then set about Vicksburg for gainful employment.
Several days passed before Jenny found what she was looking for. Coming upon a quaint structure in the business district, she saw a For Sale sign displayed in the window. Her mind raced with ideas. The compact red brick building held promise if someone were inclined to make it more habitable.
Jenny entered the shop and found the store sparsely furnished and lacking in tasteful decor. The proprietor stepped forward and introduced herself as Mary Lewis. Jenny found her to be a most gracious woman and eager to sell the choice property. “I must leave for Charleston,” Mary volunteered. “My husband, James, passed away last month, and now my only son is ailing. I need to go to him immediately. He lives alone but has a nice home. I’ll stay the remainder of my days with him.” Mary glanced about the room. “I have fond memories here, but I have to move on.” A look of regret showed on her pleasant face as she continued, “Business has dropped off considerably since my husband took ill. I have not been able to keep the merchandise stocked. After James died, business became even worse.”
Unspoken Love Page 22