Threads of Love

by Judith Mccoy Miller

“What an exceptional idea,” the doctor responded, touched by the child’s seriousness.

  “She’s a wonderful child, isn’t she?” Tessie queried, noting the doctor’s look of amazement at Addie’s answer.

  “That she is, and then some…” he replied.

  “Charlie! Hold up, Charlie, I’ve got a letter for you,” John Willoughby called out to the figure rushing into the train station.

  “What are you doing in Topeka, John?” Charlie inquired, startled to see the chef from the Florence Harvey House running toward him.

  “Keeping a promise to a little girl,” he responded, bending forward against the cold blast of air that whipped toward him. “Let’s get inside before we both freeze to death,” he said, pushing Charlie inside the door. “I don’t know about you, but I’m heading straight for a hot cup of coffee. Care to join me?”

  “I guess if I’m going to find out what you’re talking about, I’d better,” Charlie answered, tagging along behind. “What’s this all about?” he asked after they’d removed their coats and settled at the lunch counter.

  Reaching into his jacket pocket, John retrieved an envelope and handed it to his friend. “Addie made me promise I’d get this letter to you. I could have taken a chance on mailing it or having someone else bring it, but I promised Addie I’d deliver it by today. So, here I am. Don’t let me stop you. Go ahead and read it,” he encouraged.

  Charlie stared down at the sealed envelope, his name printed in childish scrawl across the front. A tiny heart drawn in each corner. He tore open the envelope, unfolded the letter, and began to read. When he had finished, he carefully folded the letter, returned it to the envelope, and took a sip of the steaming coffee sitting on the counter.

  “I don’t know what to do, John,” he said, looking down into his cup. “Addie’s asked that I come to Chicago to be with them. I feel terrible; she’s almost begging.”

  “Well, what’s stopping you? Catch the next train and go be with them,” John responded, wondering why someone as bright as Charlie Banion couldn’t figure that out on his own.

  “You don’t understand. Tessie and I had quite a disagreement about the trip to Chicago. I’m not convinced she should be rushing Addie into this operation, and I told her so. Needless to say, that didn’t sit too well with her.”

  “Hmm. I suppose that does muddy up the waters a bit, but I think that little gal needs you there right about now. Maybe you two adults need to put aside your own feelings for the time being and concentrate on Addie,” he said, rising from the counter and slipping his arms into the wool overcoat. “I’m going to get me a room and then head back to Florence in the morning. I know you’ll do what’s right, Charlie.”

  “Thanks for bringing the letter so quickly, Johnny,” Charlie called to the bundled-up figure.

  John turned and looked at Charlie, saying nothing for a brief moment. Slowly he walked back to the lunch counter. “I think a lot of that child too, Charlie. I felt honored that she trusted me enough to ask for my help. I’m just praying everything turns out okay for her. Gotta go,” he said, his voice beginning to falter.

  Charlie watched the door close and soon felt the blast of cold air that had been permitted entry. A quick chill ran up his spine. I’ll accomplish nothing sitting here, he thought, pulling on his coat. Heading toward the station to check train departures and connections that would get him to Chicago, he jotted down the information and then began the chilling walk to the boardinghouse he called home when he was in Topeka.

  After what seemed like hours of prayer, Charlie fell into a restless sleep. He awoke the next morning feeling as though he had never been to bed, still not sure what he should do. “Lord, I hope there’s an answer coming soon because that little girl’s going to have her operation soon, and I don’t know what to do,” he said, looking into the mirror as he shaved his face.

  “There’s a telegram from Mr. Vance on your desk,” Mary called to him as he brushed by her desk and into his office. Charlie didn’t acknowledge her remark, but she knew he had heard.

  “He’s sure been in a foul mood lately,” Mary whispered to Cora. “He pays even less attention to me now than he used to. One of the waitresses over at the Harvey House told me he had his cap set for that redheaded doctor. You know, the snooty one that came here and interviewed,” she explained as Cora took a bite out of a biscuit smeared with apple butter.

  “I know who you’re talking about, Mary. I was here when all that happened!”

  “I know, I’m sorry, but it’s hard for me to understand. The waitress said Dr. Wilshire had given him the glove, so you’d think he would show a little more interest in me now. Wouldn’t you?” she asked imploringly.

  “Who knows what men want?” Cora answered. “I’m sure no authority, but it’s not as if you don’t have plenty of fellows interested in you. Why don’t you just give it up, Mary? Sometimes I think you like the chase. Once you’ve snagged someone, you’re not interested anymore,” her friend remarked, wiping her lips.

  “I suppose there is some truth in that,” Mary sheepishly replied. “I’ll just ignore him; maybe that will get his attention!”

  Cora shook her head at the remark. Mary hadn’t listened to a word she had said.

  “Mary, bring your notebook in; I have a few things that need to be completed before I leave for Chicago,” Charlie called.

  Giving Cora a wink, Mary seated herself across from Charlie without uttering a word.

  “I’ll be leaving for Chicago later this morning, Mary. Mr. Vance has called a meeting of company officials, and since he is in Chicago at the present time, he’s requested I come there. I’ll wire you information once I’m sure of a date. Now, let’s get some letters taken care of as quickly as possible. I need to be ready to leave on the eleven o’clock train, and I’ll need to get home and pack my things,” he advised and quickly began dictating the first of several letters.

  Rushing to board the train, Charlie knew his answer had come. Mr. Vance wanted him in Chicago, Addie wanted him in Chicago, he wanted to be in Chicago, and he now felt certain that God wanted him in Chicago. He wasn’t quite so sure about Tessie, but he was positive Edward wanted him anywhere but Chicago. Leaning back in his seat, he hoped the trip would pass quickly, and he would reach the hospital in time to be of comfort to Addie.

  Chapter 11

  Hearing Dr. Lundstrom’s voice in the hallway, Tessie looked up to see the doctor walking toward their room with an attractive young woman at his side. “Tessie, Addie, this is Marie. She works at our house and very much enjoys being with children. She spends a good deal of time with Genevive, our daughter, and would like to stay with Addie so that you can join us for dinner this evening. I will not take no for an answer. Marie understands deaf children. Addie will be in very competent hands. Marie will not leave her side, and you need to have some time away from here. It’s going to be a couple of days before surgery and then the recuperation period afterward. It’s necessary for you to get out of the hospital at every opportunity to revitalize yourself,” he said, walking to the small closet and removing Tessie’s coat.

  “I don’t think it would be a good idea to leave,” she stammered, looking at Addie, who was already being entertained by Marie.

  Tessie walked over to Addie. “Do you mind if I leave for awhile?” she asked. Addie shook her head, giving permission, then quickly returned to the game she and Marie were playing.

  “I guess I’ve been dismissed,” she said to Dr. Lundstrom, slipping her arms into the wool coat he held out for her.

  “You’d better get your scarf and gloves. It’s very cold,” he instructed, as the two of them waved to Addie and Marie.

  “We met Marie on one of our trips to Europe. She was employed at one of the hotels where we stayed. None of her family is alive. Genevive took a shine to her, and Marie was able to communicate with and entertain her like no one else except my wife. Since she needed a home and we needed assistance with Genevive, it turned out to be an exc
ellent arrangement for all of us. She quickly became part of the family. Genevive adores her, thinks of her as an older sister, I believe. When Marie discovered you were here alone, she offered to make herself available so that you could have some respite during Addie’s hospitalization. We’ve agreed it would be a wonderful arrangement for all of you. Now that Genevive can hear again, she’s not nearly as dependent upon Marie. Nowadays, Marie has turned into my wife’s social secretary and confidant. I don’t think she enjoys it nearly as much as being with children,” he said, a smile breaking across his face.

  “That is a most generous offer, Dr. Lundstrom. I don’t know how frequently I will feel comfortable to leave Addie, but I assure you I am indebted to you and your family for the many kindnesses you’ve extended us,” she responded as their carriage turned into an oval driveway and stopped in front of an exquisite brick mansion.

  “We’re here,” he said, assisting her from the carriage. “Edward will be so delighted. He has been after me to bring him to the hospital, but with this cold, snowy weather, I thought it better that he stay indoors. If I hadn’t returned with you, I think he would have walked to the hospital. He is quite taken with you, but I’m sure you know that,” he told her, as they entered the front door.

  “Tessie, I can’t tell you how grand it is to see you,” Edward said, swinging toward her on his crutches and quickly placing a kiss on her cheek.

  “Edward, please don’t be so forward,” she rebuked.

  “We’re all family here, Tessie. They don’t mind a bit. No one would know how to behave if I acted in a refined manner all the time,” he said, grabbing her hand and placing a kiss on her palm.

  “You must be the incredible Dr. Tessie Wilshire I’ve been hearing so much about. I’m Juliette Lundstrom, Edward’s sister,” said the striking brunette who came gliding toward Tessie, her hands outstretched in welcome. “We are so pleased to have you join us. I hope it will be the first of many visits,” she continued, leading the group into the dining room.

  Hours later, Tessie was startled when she glanced at the hand-carved clock sitting on the mantel. “I didn’t realize it was so late. I must get back immediately,” she said, quickly rising from her chair. “Addie probably thinks I’ve deserted her. Juliette, may I have my coat, please,” she requested.

  “If I know Marie, Addie is probably fast asleep, having had a most enjoyable time this evening,” Juliette responded. “I do understand your concern, however. I’ll only be a minute, and we’ll get you back to the hospital.”

  Byron and Juliette bid her good night and allowed Edward a few minutes of privacy as he escorted Tessie to the door. “I want you to promise you’ll come back tomorrow evening,” Edward cajoled. “I’m not allowing you to leave until I have your word,” he stated emphatically.

  “I don’t know, Edward. I really need to be spending my time with Addie.”

  “Tell me you haven’t enjoyed the adult companionship and some decent food. Tell me it hasn’t refreshed you to be away for a few hours. I’m going to expect you here tomorrow evening. Edward’s carriage will bring Marie and fetch you back. I know Addie won’t care a bit. There’s not a child who doesn’t love to be with Marie. If Addie is completely unhappy with the arrangement, you send Marie back with the message, and I’ll force Byron to allow me a visit with you at the hospital. Do we have a bargain?” he pleaded.

  “You are so difficult to refuse, Edward. I have enjoyed the evening. Your sister and niece are so lovely, and of course, you know how much I admire Byron. I guess we have a bargain,” she responded, pulling on her gloves and looking up at him.

  He seized the opportunity and leaned forward on his crutches, pulling her to him. “Don’t back away, my love, or I’ll fall on the floor,” he whispered in her ear, embracing her. “Oh, Tessie, I’ve missed you so,” he murmured.

  “Edward,” she began, bending back to meet his eyes but was stopped short as he quickly lowered his head, placing a lingering kiss on her partially open lips. “Edward, you must stop, or I will leave you lying flat on the floor,” she breathlessly chastised him. He smiled, gave her one more fleeting kiss, and backed away, knowing his kiss had left its mark.

  “Ah, Tessie, you are the woman of my dreams,” he told her. “And I intend to have you!”

  “I think I’ll have some say in the matter,” she replied as he opened the front door.

  “That you will, that you will,” he retorted. “See you tomorrow evening and thank you for coming,” he called after her.

  Juliette had been right. Addie was fast asleep, and Marie was busy with her embroidery when Tessie returned to the hospital. Addie’s exuberance the next day assuaged any feelings of guilt that Tessie had about returning to the Lundstrom’s for dinner again that evening. In fact, Addie encouraged her to go. Marie had promised to bring a new game for them to play, and it was obvious she was looking forward to spending more time with the young woman.

  “You’re sure you don’t mind?” Tessie asked for the third time as Marie came walking down the hallway of the hospital.

  “No, go,” Addie answered. “Marie and I will have fun,” she answered, just as Marie entered the room carrying a satchel that immediately caught Addie’s attention.

  Several hours later, a noise in the hallway caused Marie to look up. Standing in the doorway was a tall, handsome man, a valise in one hand and a gaily wrapped package in the other.

  “Charlie!” came the resounding call from Addie. “Oh Charlie, you came to be with me,” the child cried, bounding into his arms.

  “And who might you be?” Charlie inquired, looking directly at Marie and noting she was the only other person in the room.

  “I’m Marie, an employee of Dr. Lundstrom and his wife,” she replied. “Who are you?” she asked, although it was obvious that Addie knew this man well.

  “Charlie Banion. A friend of Addie’s. Where might Dr. Wilshire be?” he asked, hoping she would be pleased to see him.

  “She’s gone to the Lundstroms’ for dinner. Dr. Lundstrom thought she needed some relaxation away from the hospital, and of course, Edward has driven everyone mad since Dr. Lundstrom wouldn’t allow him to leave the house and visit Dr. Wilshire here at the hospital. He’s truly smitten with her, and I can certainly understand why. So beautiful and such a fine woman,” she confided, not realizing the impact her words were having on Charlie.

  “Yes, she is beautiful,” Charlie answered. “You know, I’d really like to spend some time alone with Addie, and I’m sure you wouldn’t mind having some extra time for yourself. I’ll take over your duties here, and you can go ahead and return home,” he said, his voice carrying enough authority that Marie knew she had been dismissed.

  “Marie, what are you doing home?” Dr. Lundstrom called from the dining room as the young woman entered. Tessie immediately rose from her chair, concern etched on her face.

  “Sit down, Dr. Wilshire. Everything is fine. A friend of Addie’s is staying with her. She assured me you wouldn’t mind a bit. It appeared they wanted to visit privately, and he bid me leave them.”

  “He? Did you get his name?” Tessie asked, still alarmed at the turn of events.

  “Oh, of course. Mrs. Lundstrom would have my hide for such an omission,” she answered, giving her mistress a smile. “His name is Charlie Banion. A fine-looking man, I might add. Will you be needing me for anything further this evening, Mrs. Lundstrom?”

  “No, nothing else, Marie. Thank you,” Juliette responded, noting their guest had turned ghostly pale.

  “I really must return to the hospital,” Tessie stated, again rising from her chair.

  “But you haven’t eaten. Sit down and finish your meal. I’ll have the driver return you immediately after dinner,” Dr. Lundstrom ordered.

  She certainly didn’t want to insult the doctor. Even though she knew that staying was a mistake, she couldn’t afford to offend him. After all, he would be operating on Addie soon. Slowly she sat down and finished the longest meal of h
er life, dreading the meeting she would soon have with Charlie and knowing what he must be thinking when she didn’t immediately return.

  Hearing the click of shoes coming down the hallway, Charlie glanced at his pocket watch. It was almost 8:30 P.M. He was sure it must be Tessie. When she hadn’t returned shortly after Marie left, he knew she was sending him a message, a message he didn’t want to receive. His heart skipped a beat as she entered the room, her cheeks flushed from the cold, even more beautiful than he remembered. He had vowed to keep things civil—not lose his temper. The last thing he wanted was to drive her further into Edward’s arms.

  “Tessie, it’s good to see you,” he welcomed, rising from the chair beside Addie’s bed. “You look wonderful.”

  “What are you doing here, Charlie?” Her voice wavered between hostility and dismay.

  “Why don’t you take off your coat, and I’ll explain,” he answered warmly, although his first thought had been to ask where she had been when he arrived at the hospital.

  “Don’t fight. Please don’t fight,” came Addie’s plea from the bed, causing Tessie to feel ashamed of the way she had greeted Charlie. “I love both of you, and I want you both with me,” Addie continued. “So, just talk nice and love each other,” the child instructed.

  “We’ll try our best,” Charlie answered, giving her a wink. “Why don’t we sit down over here? Maybe Addie will be able to get to sleep and won’t be able to read our lips quite as easily.”

  “Folks are missing you in Florence,” he began. “Doc Rayburn can’t wait for you to return. Says he doesn’t know how you ever talked him into coming out of retirement during your absence. And the folks at church, they’ve all been praying for you and Addie,” he continued.

  “I’m pleased to hear that, Charlie,” she interrupted, “but what I really want to know is why you’re in Chicago. You’re opposed to all of this, and then without a word, you show up like you belong here.”