“Ah, there you are.” Aurora walked in with a letter in her hand. “Esther plans to travel in the next week or so. Perfect timing. She can move into your old bedroom.”
Lucille smiled. “It doesn’t give you and Evan much time alone.”
“We have plenty. Besides, Esther plans to live above her shop or so she says. She finally has enough money to do as she pleases, so I am confident her stay with us won’t be long.”
Lucille stood and went to the window, once again. “Perhaps we should go through the existing empty storefront again. Are the rooms above it suitable?”
“If they are not, Esther can have them remodeled. She is very industrious and will have everything in tip top shape in no time.” Aurora came to stand next to her. “I’m going to miss you so much.”
Her friend was not just that, but a sister to her. As much as she looked forward to married life, Lucille tried her best to ignore the knot that formed each time she considered not living with Aurora. They’d been together since twelve years of age with hardly more than a day apart.
“I am not sure it’s a good idea to speak of this right now. Tobias will be here any moment and the last thing I wish is for him to walk into a room with two women sobbing and clinging to each other.”
Both laughed at the thought as Tobias guided a wagon toward the house. “There he is.” Lucille pointed out the obvious while blinking away moisture. “Just in time.”
Butterflies fluttered in her stomach when Tobias’ green eyes met hers for a beat before he greeted Aurora. Lucille pulled her shawl around her shoulders and he assisted her into a thick coat.
Once outside, she allowed him to lift her up into the wagon. All the while, her eyes devoured his features. Long-lashed eyes moved from her face and looked away. She was relieved that he was as nervous.
“I’m looking forward to seeing the house. Do you think we need to get more than the usual sundries for the kitchen?”
His wide shoulders lifted and lowered as he settled onto the bench beside her and took the reins. “I don’t think much is needed. Eleanor furnished it and ensured the kitchen was fully stocked with all the necessary pots and pans. She and James lived there for three years prior to moving to the big house.”
It was best to avoid the reason behind Eleanor and her husband having to move. Thankfully, he didn’t seem to brood at the moment. Instead, he continued to talk, his deep voice strong and reassuring. “I walked through it yesterday and aired it out a bit. I’m sure you’ll want to make a few changes, make it yours and such. Eleanor told me to let you know anything you don’t want, just pack it up and she’ll send James to retrieve it.”
“Your sister is a great person. Each of you has such good qualities.”
His gaze slid to her. “Thank you. Yes, she is.”
Tobias stood near the doorway as Lucille went from room to room. Although he knew the house was very different and more rustic than she was used to, it was admirable to watch her taking inventory. Seeming not to be taken aback by the differences in this home and both the ones back east or Evan’s even, her lips were curved into a soft smile as she studied the larder.
She’d brought a pad of paper and, on occasion, noted something. Her brow pinched, she moved back and inspected the larder.
“Tobias. I’m not accustomed to food storage and such out here. I’ll have to discuss this with Eleanor or Wilhelmina. Perhaps I can inspect the other larders to be certain of what we need to purchase.”
He liked that she referred to him, asking questions about his preferences as they walked from one room to the other. She stopped in the bedroom and motioned to the bed. “Is this new?”
“Yes,” he replied, hoping his face didn’t turn red as inappropriate thoughts formed. “Just set up yesterday.”
“Oh.” She pressed her lips together. “It’s nice. I love the new sheets. Thank Eleanor, please.”
“I bought them and set it up.” Now his cheeks burned, so he turned away and walked to the fireplace. “Cleaned out the two fireplaces, too.”
“I see. Very…nice. Thank you.”
Thankfully, she left the bedroom and he could finally turn back. The bed loomed, seeming to block his path. After a deep breath, he followed after his soon-to-be bride.
“I am fond of gardening,” Lucille said as they walked from what was now an overgrown patch of ground toward the henhouse, which was to be populated very soon. “Thankfully, there was a beautiful vegetable garden at the house in Philadelphia where I spent many an afternoon. I’ll have to check with Eleanor about the types of plants that grow here. Perhaps gather some seeds or cuttings from her garden.” She stopped and looked up at him. “Is it too early yet to garden? Have you seen Eleanor or Wilhelmina outdoors working the soil yet?”
As much as he enjoyed hearing her voice, she’d not stopped talking since they’d arrived, continuously searching for a way to keep conversation going. Her hand trembled when she wiped away an errant strand and he realized talking was her way of coping with nerves.
Unsure of what exactly his role was, Tobias took her hand and brought it to his lips. “I want us to be more comfortable around each other.”
Lucille visibly swallowed. Her gaze was on where his lips had touched her hand. “I think we are…I mean, don’t you?”
“Come here.” Tobias pulled her close and lifted her chin up to him. “I don’t think we are. I’m nervous as all get out. Then again, maybe it’s just me.”
Her lips curved at his attempt to make her feel better. “No, it’s not just you.” Lucille let out a sigh and pressed her forehead to his chin. “I wonder how long before this uneasiness goes away.”
“My brother told me he still feels anxious right before seeing Wilhelmina every day. At the same time, he told me I’ll want to hurry home once I’m done with work just to be with you. I believe him.”
“Every day…” a pretty blush covered her face as she looked up. “My goodness.”
Unable to keep from it, he kissed her lips, ensuring to keep the kiss quick. After the last kiss in his brother’s kitchen when he’d become too aroused, embarrassing himself, it would not do to press it further. Thankfully, the only person who’d noticed his state was Marcus, who’d winked in acknowledgement.
Now just thinking about her soon lying next to him in the new bed was enough for the telltale sensations to begin. Tobias cleared his throat. “We should head back, don’t want dusk to catch us. I’m still not comfortable riding back and forth to town alone with you. Anything could happen. The outlaws could come back for revenge.”
Her eyes widened. “Do you really think so?”
Now he’d worried her unnecessarily. There was so much to learn about women. He’d have to measure his words before speaking. “Honestly, I don’t think so. But it’s better to be safe than sorry.” Thankfully, she let out a breath and seemed to relax. He continued. “I asked Owen to accompany us.”
“Owen? Do you think it’s necessary to pull someone from working?”
“He doesn’t mind. He wants to check on the sheriff anyway.” Tobias pressed a kiss to her brow. “I made a promise to keep you safe and I will. Besides, I feel more comfortable with someone along now that it’s later. He couldn’t come with me this morning.”
As if on cue, the man came into view. He waved at them and continued toward where the wagon waited.
Chapter Twelve
Lucille’s hands trembled as she entered the town’s small chapel. The aroma of fresh pine cuttings wrapped in ribbon filled the air. It seemed most of the townsfolk had shown up to see one of their own get married. Tobias had grown up there and, by the beaming faces, was well liked.
Assembled on the wooden benches were the people she’d grown to know and care for. The warm smiles on everyone’s faces were comforting as she looked from Gladys to Gemina and her husband, Howard. Jacob Hamilton sat with the recovering Sheriff Blake. Even Filbert was in attendance, a crooked grin splitting his rugged face.
In front of t
he hearth was Pastor Ward with Tobias and Marcus to his left. Aurora stood on the opposite side, her eyes shiny and her lips curved into a wide smile.
Wilhelmina accepted a handkerchief from her husband. Eleanor reached over and touched Lucille’s forearm as she walked by on Evan’s arm.
Finally able to meet Tobias’ gaze, she found he looked directly at her. His face was pale but without expression. However, in the depths of green and gold, warmth emanated and she took a deep breath of relief.
Evan guided her closer and moved to stand with his wife.
“We are gathered here today to join this man and this woman in holy matrimony…”
The words floated in the air light as clouds while Lucille struggled to absorb each emotion, to memorize every word and sensation. The sniffs, clearing of throats and soft chuckles when they fumbled their lines were memories she never wanted to forget.
Finally, they were pronounced husband and wife. Tobias lifted her face and kissed her while everyone cheered on.
When they turned to the crowd gathered, Aurora was the first to hug her. The others followed and, for the next few hours, she had not one moment alone with her new husband.
They ate, toasted and celebrated. The celebration was much needed in the town, it seemed, judging by the number of people that crowded the tiny church hall. Although it was much too cool to be outside, those that didn’t fit inside gathered in the elements, huddling around a bonfire to take part in the festivities.
Seeming unfazed by the cold, Eleanor, Wilhelmina and Aurora brought out cups of hot coffee. The rather large wedding cake was shared until it was all gone.
Fiddlers had set up outside as well as a guitar player. Soon, people danced to the happy tunes while others clapped and sang along.
Since it was too far to head home, it had been agreed that Tobias and Lucille would remain there at Aurora’s house. Wilhelmina, Eleanor and their husbands were going to sleep at the sheriff’s and the single men were bunking at the clinic.
Darkness fell and the festivities came to an end. Lucille would remember this day to be more like a town celebration than a wedding. Over time, she’d come to know the people better yet she felt accepted and welcomed. For the first time in her life, she, Aurora and Wilhelmina were part of a new community and accepted in their new home. And now, she there not as a servant or a lower class citizen, but as a woman on equal social standing with the rest of the people gathered.
The room she’d been sleeping in for the last few months suddenly seemed much too small. The bed was definitely not large enough for two people, much less her husband who was tall and broad. Lucille changed into the soft blue night shift, the fabric suddenly seeming too thin. Her entire body shook with apprehension and she fought not to hyperventilate.
What does a husband expect on the first night of marriage?
She fumbled with the bed coverings only to step back. It would not do to get into the bed. It could come across as too forward. Or did he expect to find her in bed upon entering?
With a sigh, she walked in a circle. Why didn’t she think to ask one of her friends the protocol of the wedding night?
Footsteps neared and her eyes dashed from the doorway to the bed. Unable to decide what was best, she lowered into a small chair next to the bed.
Tobias walked in and frowned. “Is something wrong?”
“No,” she replied much too quickly. “I was just waiting for you.”
“Why aren’t you lying down?”
“I decided to wait here.”
He shrugged and sat on the bed. When he began tugging off his boots, Lucille realized the chair would have been a better place for him to do so. That was probably why he’d asked.
“Do you want to sit here?”
“I’m fine.”
Clasping her hands on her lap, she watched his shoulders bunch and shift with each tug until both boots and socks were removed. He straightened, his eyes traveling from her face down her body. “I like your night gown. The color is very flattering.”
“Thank you. Aurora helped me make it.”
He frowned, but didn’t say anything else. Instead, he stood and pulled his shirt over his head.
“Tobias? Are you removing all your clothing?” Lucille didn’t mind the view at all. His broad chest with a light dusting of hair down the center took all her attention. “Have you been with a woman before?”
When he looked to her with a scowl, she tried to think of how to retract her question. “You don’t have to answer, of course. I’m just curious…and nervous. I tend to babble when I’m…nervous.”
“No I have not been with a woman. But I have an idea what to do. We should both be without clothing.”
“All our clothing?” She swallowed at the idea of him seeing her totally nude. It was most unnatural in her opinion. “Are you sure?”
“From what I have been told, yes, I’m sure.”
“Why haven’t you…er…before?”
His lips formed a straight line and he gave her a droll look. “You’ve noticed most of the population in these parts are men. The only women are…well, they are…not the right…heck…they work at the saloon.”
“Oh. Yes, of course.”
She stood and waited for him to look away. Instead, he remained facing her while unbuckling his belt and lowering his pants.
Lucille turned away, unsure what to do next only to yelp when he touched her. “I’ll help you.”
The man was totally and utterly naked as the day he was born and didn’t seem one bit bashful about it.
Her gaze traveled from his chest down to his flat stomach but before she could catch a peek below his waist, her nightgown came up, blocking the view. The soft fabric slid easily up and she lifted her arms to allow him to pull it off over her head.
Now both stood before one another. Unlike her, Tobias was not at all hesitant to take her body in.
“You are more beautiful than I ever imagined.”
When he took her hand and led her to the bed, Lucille’s breath caught at finally seeing all of him. He seemed rather large, not that she’d ever seen a man exposed. But judging from what she guessed he was about to do, it was not going to be comfortable. It would not be at all enjoyable as Aurora had promised.
“Oh my goodness.” Lucille swallowed, her rounded eyes going to the bed. “I am not sure I can breathe.”
Tobias brought her against him, which caused a certain part to press into her stomach. Lucille held back a giggle. This was the most perplexing thing she’d ever experienced.
His mouth covered hers, the action immediately sending her thoughts to scatter in a million directions. She took his shoulders and kissed him back as warmth traveled over every inch of her body. It was then she realized his hands were moving, caressing and rubbing over her.
And she did not mind it one bit.
Tobias slipped his arms behind her knees and under her arms, lifting her easily. Lucille pressed her forehead to his face, inhaling the masculine scent.
When he lowered her to the bed, he slid in next to her, having to lie on his side to fit on the bed. Her husband was breathtaking and as he continued to caress and kiss her, she could barely contain from moaning out loud.
He pressed his lips to her shoulder and trailed them behind every caress until Lucille thought she’d fall apart. So many new sensations at once pushed her past her limitations as she grasped for him, digging her fingers into his skin, desperate for more.
Tobias rolled over her and, in that instant, the action yanked her to reality. “I’m not sure I can take more.” Lucille struggled to make sense as her brain seemed to be disengaged from her body.
“I’m not sure I can stop.”
Before she could adjust her mind to what happening, Tobias thrust into her. Pain at the piercing sliced through her and Lucille cried out. At the same time, she pushed at Tobias’ shoulders in a vain attempt to move him away, only to be stilled and silenced by his kisses.
“I’m sorry.” T
obias whispered into her ear. “Relax.”
Minutes later, a union of moans filled the room.
Chapter Thirteen
“Please tell me it won’t hurt like that again,” Lucille said at the dining table with Aurora. “That seemed utterly unfair.”
Her friend burst out laughing. “For goodness’ sake, Lucille, don’t talk so loud. They may hear us.”
The men were outside hitching the wagon and preparing for their travel back to Hamilton lands. From where she sat, Lucille caught sight of the top of Tobias’ head.
“Frankly, I will tell him no if he tries to touch me again.” She huffed and let out a breath.
Aurora shook her head. “It only hurts the first time. After that, it’s always enjoyable. Unless…”
“What?” Lucille leaned forward. “Tell me.”
It was one thing to not be told about the pain. She understood that her friends didn’t wish to scare her. But having been through the rite of passage, she expected to know every detail. “Explain, Aurora.”
“Sometimes your husband will be in a rush and not wait for you to be…fully ready.” Aurora bit her bottom lip and shrugged. “It’s not painful, but can be uncomfortable. Just ensure you inform him to slow things down until you’re ready. That’s what Eleanor advised me to do and it works with Evan every time. I know you and you’ll have plenty of questions. Thankfully, Wilhelmina and Eleanor will be nearby.”
Lucille and Aurora walked out to the front porch. Their arms were entwined as the last of Lucille’s things were loaded onto the back of the wagon. The others had arrived. Wilhelmina and Eleanor brought purchases and placed them next to Lucille’s items. Tobias and Marcus would drive one wagon with Lucille and Wilhelmina, while James and Eleanor would take the other. Jacob and Owen were already mounted and waiting.
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