His brother’s bright green eyes met his. “That’s just it. I don’t think I want to. If someone answers that ad Eleanor posted, I’m not writing back.” Tobias raked his fingers through his hair, yanking them past knots and cussing. “Need a damned haircut.”
“I’m surprised Eleanor hasn’t caught you,” Marcus said with a chuckle. “She’d normally cut it by now.”
With a scowl, Tobias grabbed a handful. “Before long, I’ll have to pin it up.” He lifted his hair and spoke in a high voice. “Let me see about supper. Don’t you boys come sniffin’ around either.” He imitated Eleanor perfectly and both laughed.
After Tobias went back to his chores, Marcus looked after his younger brother. He’d have to talk to Wilhelmina about the conversation. Perhaps she’d have some insight. He’d promised their mother that he’d make sure Tobias was happy.
What he didn’t expect was for this change in him.
My Dearest Wilhelmina,
I hope this letter arrives before winter’s end and that it finds you well. It is impossible to put into words how much I miss you.
Your letter is becoming worn from the many times I have reread it. By the time you read this, I’m sure to have read it several times more.
The horrible reality of how my life will turn out becomes more and more apparent with each social engagement and time I have to spend with the Jamesons.
If only I could be as brave as you. A more courageous woman I have yet to meet. That you took a chance to find your own way amazes me daily.
Your stepsister and stepmother have visited me regularly. As you can guess, it’s quite apparent their attempts at friendship have nothing to do with me personally, but my new status in society.
At times, I find their attempts to find something remotely familiar to speak about while at the same time avoiding mentioning you quite entertaining. I often bring you up just to get a reaction. Is that terrible of me? How can they not miss you as much as I do?
Preparations for the wedding have started. Mostly my mother and Lady Jameson, who seem to act as if they are going to be the bride. My input, when it is requested, is quickly discarded. Which to be honest does not bother me in the least.
I have gone so far as to imagine Milford marring my mother, so then I could go on with my life. — Yes, I’m laughing.
As much as I dreamed of my wedding day, I find myself dreading it more each passing moment.
If only I could meet that handsome husband of yours. I’d congratulate him on finding such a treasure in a wife.
Please write me again soon.
With fond wishes for a wonderful life, your friend forever,
Aurora Middleton
Wilhelmina wiped away a tear and sniffed. It hurt to know Aurora faced a loveless marriage to the pampered and quite unworthy of her friend, Milford Jameson, a well-known, ruthless rake. She doubted the man would change his ways after marriage. Their father had not set a good example, as the man’s escapades were often the talk of the town.
She’d write Aurora right away. If anything, hopefully letters between them would brighten her friend’s days. It saddened her to not be in attendance for her best friend’s wedding. The nuptials were to take place in February, which was six weeks away.
If only there was a way to help Aurora.
The door swung open and Tobias stood in the opening with an armload of wood. With the sun behind him and the wind blowing his long hair every which way, he looked sort of like a warrior. An angelic one, she’d say.
If Marcus was an attractive man, she could only describe Tobias as magnificent. Quite tall and broad shouldered, he towered over the other men. His clear green eyes contrasted with the dark brown hair and tawny complexion.
He stomped the snow from his boots and walked inside. Wilhelmina rushed to close the door, pulling her shawl tight around her. “It’s so windy today.”
“It is. But not as cold as it has been.”
Shivering, she frowned at her brother-in-law. “How can you possibly tell? It seems the same one day to the next to me.”
He shook his head. “Once you’ve lived her a few years, you’ll feel it.” While he stacked the wood carefully beside the fireplace, she watched him closely, tapping a finger to her pursed lips.
“Tobias, did you get any replies from the ad Eleanor placed?”
The shrug was noncommittal, so she persisted. “If there are any, weather may have precluded them from arriving.”
When he looked over his shoulder at her, his eyes narrowed. “Did Eleanor say something about it?”
“No. I’m just curious. Marcus told me you were building a house as well.”
“I’m not in any hurry to get married. Won’t bother me in the least if I never do.”
“Don’t be ridiculous,” Eleanor said, walking to her brother and hovering over him. “I need to cut your hair.”
“After winter. It keeps my neck warm.”
The siblings stared at each other with neither backing down. Wilhelmina chuckled. “I think you should leave it be, Eleanor. Besides, it suits him.”
Tobias gave his sister a triumphant look and grinned. “It suits me,” he said and straightened to his full height. “Got work to do.” With that, he rushed back outside.
Eleanor neared and studied Wilhelmina. “I heard what you talked about. I think Tobias is throwing away any letters that come.”
“I may have an idea.” Wilhelmina pulled her sister-in-law to the kitchen. “Let’s have tea while I explain.”
Marcus had pushed his body and, that evening, he could barely stand on his swollen ankle. Wilhelmina held his foot, now across her lap, and rubbed liniment into it. “I will wrap it. In the morning, it will be good as new. You’ll see.”
Her soft smile melted his insides. For an instant, the pain was forgotten.
“You’ll need to stay off of it as much as possible for the next few days.”
“There isn’t much to do tomorrow. Tobias and I got a lot done today.”
Jacob entered the room, his gaze moving across the seated members of the family. Eleanor sat by the fireplace reading, while James looked on. Tobias was at the dining table sketching, as he was prone to do in the evenings now.
“I want to talk to everyone about something,” the patriarch announced. At once, every set of eyes moved to Jacob. “I’m thinking I’ll move to the smaller house once spring comes. Eleanor, you and James should remain here. I need to get away.”
He didn’t need to say more, understanding dawned. Although in his late forties, the man remained handsome with only whispers of greying on his temples. Wilhelmina considered that he was much too young to become a recluse and live alone without his family.
Obviously, Eleanor thought the same when exchanging looks with Wilhelmina. “That won’t do at all, Pa. I won’t have you living alone. If you don’t want to stay here, I understand, but wherever you go…we go.”
“If Pa’s gonna live with anyone, he’ll live with Wilhelmina and me.” Marcus sat up straighter. Wilhelmina considered tossing his leg off her lap. Once again, he rushed to make a decision without consulting her.
Jacob, obviously the smartest of the group, looked to James and then to Wilhelmina. “Don’t you think you should speak to your spouses before offering?”
Eleanor rolled her eyes. “James and I have already spoken about it.” She gave Marcus a pointed look and his eyes rounded.
It was comical when he looked at her. “Don’t you agree?”
Grief remained in Jacob Hamilton’s eyes. A tangible sadness hung on him and Wilhelmina felt sad, too. No one should have to suffer the loss of a wife or husband, especially when so young. It was hard to fathom what she’d do if something happened to Marcus. How could someone overcome such grief?
“I think you are making a decision at a time when it’s hard to think clearly. It’s understandable that you wish to get away from things that remind you of your wife. However, Mr. Hamilton, I don’t think being alone is the answer.�
��
“Come spring, Marcus and I will move out.” Wilhelmina looked to her husband. “Of course, you are welcome to move out with us.” Marcus blew out a breath of relief.
Jacob scratched his head. “I knew you all would try to talk me out of it.” He went to the table and sat down. “I don’t plan to become a recluse. But I want each of you to have your own home, a life. I would like it if you all would understand.”
Eleanor went to her father and draped her arms around his shoulders. “I do, Pa. If that’s what you want, then you can move into our house. It’s the closest. I’ll expect you here for supper every night.”
Jacob nodded his head. “Agreed.”
Tobias scowled. “What about me? I don’t want to stay here with you two.” He looked to James as if for support.
“You,” Eleanor snapped, “will finish your house and move into it. Come spring, we’re getting you married.”
The youngest raked both hands through his hair and looked up to the ceiling. He remained silent. Eleanor smiled at Wilhelmina. “I have a feeling you’ll have a bride sooner than you think.”
Tobias jerked upright and looked to Wilhelmina then to his sister. “Why?”
“You’ll see.” Eleanor kissed her father’s temple and went to the kitchen. “Who wants coffee?”
Wilhelmina walked through the darkened house after everyone went to bed. She was restless. Between wondering if she’d been hasty in what she’d proposed to Aurora in her response and trying to figure out if, indeed, she expected a child, her mind would not settle.
She’d not had her monthly courses yet, but the symptoms of a possible pregnancy had disappeared entirely. Each morning, she’d felt well and not at all nauseous or dizzy.
Perhaps it was the many changes in her life that affected her. Once everything settled into a regular routine, her body would react.
Scratching at the kitchen door made her hesitate. When it didn’t sound again, she shrugged it off. Probably a branch blown by the wind or a wild animal. Just as she went to leave the room, once again, there were scratches.
Later, she’d consider how foolish she’d been to open the door, as it could have been a man bent on murder. But instead, a small dog stood at the door, her stomach extended with pregnancy. The small creature whined and shivered.
Immediately, Wilhelmina rushed to a side cupboard and pulled out a pair of old tablecloths. Under a small table, she placed a basket with a tablecloth inside of it.
“Come on, girl. It’s warm and safe here.”
Although timid, it was obvious the dog had been someone’s pet by the trust in her eyes. She went to the basket and settled, offering a lick to Wilhelmina’s hand in gratitude.
Wilhelmina found leftover roast and potatoes. She cut it up and offered it to the dog, which devoured it all. After setting a dish of water near, she covered the dog, petted its head and made towards her room.
The little dog whined, seeming to be fearful to be left alone.
Wilhelmina wondered if it was about to give birth and was terrified. “Fine, I’ll sit with you for a while.”
She grabbed a blanket from the main room and returned to the kitchen. Settling in the corner with her back to the wall, she let out a sigh.
“I know how you feel. I came to this house alone and without knowing what awaited me on the other side. It’s a safe place. I am accepted and loved. In turn, I’ve fallen in love with my wonderful husband and care deeply for the rest of the family, too.”
The dog watched her as she spoke, its eyes closing from exhaustion.
In the morning, Marcus found his wife sleeping on the floor next to a small dog and three tiny puppies in a basket.
Chapter Sixteen
Three weeks later…
Marcus woke to the sounds of retching. Wilhelmina had been ill in the mornings for three days straight. He lifted from the bed to find her straightening and immediately rinsing out her mouth.
When she turned and grinned at him, he wondered if the woman was feverish. Why would anyone be glad when obviously quite ill?
“Do you need me to get some tea started?” He slid to the edge of the bed. “I can ask Eleanor for something soothing.”
He went closer and felt her forehead, finding it cool. His chest tightened. What if what his mother had now affected Wilhelmina. She’d started off by being sick after meals and sometimes in the mornings. He pulled Wilhelmina into his arms to keep her from seeing how distraught he’d suddenly become.
“I’m fine, Marcus. Don’t be upset.” She pushed back enough to look up at him. “However, I may be ill in the mornings for a few more weeks. It’s natural.”
“Natural? How can you say that?”
“I’m fairly certain, and Eleanor agrees, that I’m expecting.” She blushed. “We’re going to have a son or daughter.”
Without thinking she’d just been sick, he plucked her from the floor and twirled around and around. “We’re going to be parents?” He finally put her down when she turned an interesting shade of green.
Wilhelmina nodded and accepted his kiss. “I would love some tea. Please be a dear and get it while I get dressed.”
He rushed from the room and burst into his brother’s bedroom. Tobias, who remained in bed, lifted up to his elbows. “What’s wrong?”
“Nothing,” Marcus replied and grinned down at his brother. “I’m going to be a father.”
His brother shook his head and smiled in return. “That’s good news. Sure didn’t waste any time.”
“No, I did not,” Marcus said, puffing out his chest. “I’m going to tell Pa.” He rushed away.
Everyone hugged a blushing Wilhelmina at breakfast, even James who was not prone to displays of affection.
Marcus couldn’t stop grinning even though his cheeks ached from it.
Several days later, the day was sunny, but still quite cold.
James passed a small envelope to Wilhelmina. “Got this yesterday while in town. It’s a telegram for you.”
Eleanor perked up, her eager gaze on Wilhelmina as she skimmed the contents. She grinned at Eleanor. “Aurora has agreed. I can’t believe it.”
“Who?” Marcus looked to his wife who continued to exchange curious looks with Eleanor.
“My dearest friend,” Wilhelmina said, “is coming here.”
She looked to Tobias who’d stopped eating and narrowed his eyes. “She’s interesting in pursuing a marriage to Tobias.”
Food fell from Tobias’ mouth, but he didn’t seem to notice. “I’m not interested.”
“You will be,” Eleanor piped up.
Tobias turned to Jacob. “Pa, tell them they can’t go around forcing people to marry each other.”
“I think it’s a grand idea. There aren’t enough women out here and its time you settle down, Tobias.”
When he looked to Marcus, there was fear in his gaze. The conversation in the barn returned to his mind. A reminder of how Tobias felt on the matter of marriage.
Tobias stood, grabbed his coat from the peg by the door and went outside.
“Can you speak to him, please?” Wilhelmina touched Marcus’ arm. “It won’t do if Aurora leaves her home to get away from an unpleasant situation only to find herself in another.”
When Marcus caught up with his brother, he found him leaning on a fence peering off into the distance. “It’s hard to believe in a few weeks all this will be green again.”
“Yeah, I can’t wait,” Marcus replied and stood next to him. “The one thing that’s constant is change.”
“I wish the women would stop trying to control our lives.” There was a tone of sulkiness to Tobias’ statement that reminded Marcus of when his brother was a boy.
“It’s how women are. Always romanticizing things.”
For a few moments, they remained in companionable silence. Finally, Marcus looked to his brother. “Ma made me promise I’d ensure you are happy. Tell me something. Will you be happy living alone in that house you’re building? Is
that what you wish for?” He held up a hand so Tobias would not say anything yet.
“If it’s what you really want. If you swear it will be a happy life, then I’ll tell Wilhelmina to send the woman a telegram right away to tell her not to come.”
Tobias scowled. “I don’t know what will make me happy.”
“You have to tell me, Tobias. I need to know because I promised our mother and I won’t go against it. The day she died, it was one of her last requests. That I ensure you were happy.”
His brother’s stormy gaze met his. “I don’t know what I want right now. I want Ma back. I want things to be as they were when she was healthy.”
Marcus put his arm around his brother’s shoulders and stood by silently as Tobias cried. It was a relief that he finally grieved.
“Is Tobias all right?” Wilhelmina laid her head on Marcus’ shoulder later that night. “He was somber at supper. Do you think he’ll reject Aurora?”
“No. I think it could work out. He couldn’t admit he’ll be happy alone. I promised Ma I’d see to his happiness, so marriage may be good for him.”
She let out a sigh and cupped his jaw, turning him to face her. “I love you so much, Marcus. I want Aurora and Tobias to both have something like this.”
“So do I. I wish it more than anything for my brother.”
He pulled her into his arms and kissed her soundly until both began tearing each other’s clothes off.
Along with sighs, moans and kissing, the night sounds of the wind through the trees joined in the simple melody of a good life.
The End
Be sure to read Aurora, A Romantic Bride next, you will get to know doctor Evan Jones a lot better!
Sacrifice comes at great cost to a young woman forced to marry and save her family from ruin.
Wilhelmina, A Winter Bride (Brides for All Seasons Book 1) Page 14