Mail Order Bride: Montana Bride (A Clean Inspirational Historical New Adult Romance)

by Nathan Adams

  CHAPTER 3

  After several weeks of exchanging letters, something deep in Ivey’s soul told her that Gabe was definitely someone she could envision spending her life with. And because he was initially her father’s choice, it all made sense. Ivey enjoyed talking to Gabe this way, revealing herself to him like she’d never done with anyone else before. She felt he knew her better than her best friends did. Well, almost better. Gabe did not know about Ivey’s secret and her parents agreed that she should keep quiet about it, until the right time came to reveal it, if she chose. Ivey only hoped that when she tells Gabe, he would be understanding and would still want her.

  When the letter arrived inviting her to come to his home, so that they could finally become one in the eyes of the Lord Almighty, Ivey felt like she was in a wonderful dream. What started off as a reluctant reply to a surprise letter, had ended up making her the happiest woman in the world. She went downstairs to reveal the news to her parents.

  “Mother, father,” she started ceremoniously; her mother looked up from her embroidery and her father from his newspaper. “I have the most wonderful news,” she said, her eyes glowing. She felt like she was walking on air, barely touching the ground, and needed to stop to regain her balance.

  “What is it, darlin’?” her father’s gaze met hers.

  “I have here a letter from Gabe,” she paused for effect. “He is asking me to be his wife.”

  Her mother dropped her embroidery kit and jumped from her chair.

  “Why, Ivey!” she rushed to hug her. “That’s wonderful! I’m so happy for you!”

  Ivey returned the hug, her eyes fixated on her father. He seemed serious.

  “Are you alright, father?” she was released from her mother’s grip and approached her father cautiously.

  “Yes, yes…” he seemed lost in thought. “Is this what you want?” His voice was weak, as if he was at a loss for words. “I don’t want you to do something against your wishes. We never wanted that…”

  “Oh, no, no!” Ivey rushed to hug him. “I am so grateful for all you have done for me, because if it wasn’t for your idea, I would never have met Gabe. And he is a wonderful man, father, truly. I’m sure he’ll take very good care of me, and I of him.” Ivey beamed as she spoke, and her father was put at ease.

  “Well, if that’s the case, then we have a celebration to plan!” He lifted her in his arms, and spun her around like a little girl.

  He knew that whatever happened now, at least his beloved daughter would be safe from harm. The Good Lord helped him take care of Ivey and now he prayed that he could get out of this financial crisis.

  That night, Ivey prayed like never before. She knelt on the hard wooden floor of her room, and pressed the palms of her hands close. Her eyes were closed, her mind empty. She needed all the strength the Lord Almighty wished to give her, because once she reached her new home, she would have to reveal the secret she had kept hidden for so long; a secret so devastating it threatened to destroy all the prospects of her future happiness. Her chest rose as she took deep breaths, trying to calm herself down. Whatever happened, she had faith in God, that He would decide what would happen and that it would be for the best.

  The following days were spent getting Ivey ready for her trip, as Gabe was informed with a telegram that she would arrive in two weeks’ time. Her parents and the rest of the guests would join them on the day of the wedding celebration.

  “We have news from your brother,” Ivey was welcomed one morning into the dining room with these words.

  “How is Wayland doing? Is he coming home soon?” Ivey’s heart fluttered at the mention of her beloved brother. Ever since the war had started, he’d been away, fighting with the rest of the boys. Now that the conflict was drawing to an end, it was believed that he would be returning home any day.

  “He should be home close to the time of your wedding,” her father replied joyfully.

  “The whole family will be together again!” her mother exclaimed with equal enthusiasm.

  Ivey felt like it had been ages since the whole family was together, and was looking forward to seeing her dearly loved brother, especially for such a marvelous occasion.

  The day of Ivey’s departure arrived very quickly. She stood in front of the carriage that was to take her to her new home and said goodbye to her parents and the life she’d know up until now. She was both nervous and excited for her new adventure.

  “Do you have everything you need?” her mother asked, holding back her tears. “We can come sooner if you need us. Just send us a telegram.” caressed her daughter’s cheek gently, smoothed the ruffles of her dress. Ivey knew that her mother was trying hard to stifle her emotions.

  “Yes, mother. I know. Thank you.” Ivey told her mother. Looking at everyone that had gathered to send her off, family home, the big oak tree that still held the swing from her childhood, Ivey realized how much she’d really miss her home. Up until now, she hadn’t truly grasped how much. It finally sunk in that she wouldn’t be living here anymore, that she would be making new memories, new acquaintances, creating a new home for her new family.

  “We love you, darlin’, always remember that,” her father’s usually deep was shaking. It tore her heart to pieces, knowing how hard it was for him to let her go, but it was what they all believed was best.

  Not being able to speak, she hugged him, and buried her face in his shoulders. He still smelled of tobacco, and she inhaled deeply, hoping that the smell would stay with her, keeping him with her they met again.

  “Alright then,” her father regained composure, “better get going, you don’t wanna be late do you?” He winked at her, and she smiled. It was all going to be alright.

  Making sure that her two suitcases were packed inside the carriage, Ivey climbed in and waved goodbye to her parents. Her fingers were shaking, and her eyes were filling up with tears. The image of her parents, hugging each other as they saw their beloved daughter off would remain imprinted on her mind for a long time. She reassured herself that she would see them soon, for the wedding.

  “Goodbye! Goodbye! I love you!” Ivey waved as the horses started galloping away from her childhood home.. After a while, her family home was just a small dot on the horizon and Ivey pulled her head back into the carriage to settle in for the ride.

  She was edgy and the book she brought to the time didn’t serve its purpose. Ivey couldn’t focus on it all, despite it being one of her favorites. She tried to take a nap, but constant rocking of the carriage on the uneven road made sleep impossible.

  Thankfully Ivey finally reached her destination. The welcoming committee was already there to greet her. The house’s servants, Gabe’s mother Louella Riddell, and Gabe himself all had huge smiles on their faces that showed their excitement for her arrival..

  “Ivey!” Louella called her name.. “Ivey dear!” Gabe’s mother was a small, doughy woman, with a big chest and short legs under a long skirt. Her blouse was buttoned all the way to the top, and a beautiful silver broach glistened at her left breast.

  “My dear, we’re ever so glad you’re here!” Louella said as he pushed past everyone to greet Ivey as she exited the carriage. It was a wonderfully warm welcome that touched her heart.

  “Mrs. Riddell, thank you so much…” Ivey began.

  “Oh, it’s Louella, please!” she pinched Ivey’s cheek playfully. “Gabe!” she turned around. “Gabe, where are you?” She spun around in mock annoyance. “Where in God’s name is that boy?”

  Gabe was trying to push past rows of servants, who in a line like soldiers waiting for orders.

  “I’m here,” Ivey finally heard his voice. Gabe stepped forward, wearing a checkered shirt with his sleeves rolled up. His shirt was slightly muddy, as he had been doing some work just before she had arrived. His hair fluttered in the wind, and his dark chestnut eyes looked out from under long lashes. Ivey blushed under his gaze, lowering her own, which he found adorable. The two stood in the midst of the small crow
d confused, stricken by Cupid’s arrow, happy to finally see each other.

  “Alright, you little love birds,” Louella chirped, “let’s get you all inside where we can relax a little. I’m sure Ivey is tired from her trip.” She turned to one of her servants. “Saul! Get Ivey’s bags, will ya!”

  Gabe offered Ivey his bare arm, and after only a second’s hesitation, she leaned on it. The touch of his skin felt electrifying and Ivey felt her cheeks bloom the most brilliant shade of red.

  Gave led Ivey into the enormous house which spread out like a labyrinth before her. She was immediately intimidated and her step faltered.

  “It’s not as big as it looks,” Louella smiled, reading Ivey’s expression. “It just feels that way, dear. Once you get used to it, you’ll see.” She led them down a short hall to the left of the door. “We can rest here in the parlor. Ella will bring us some cookies and coffee. Or would you prefer tea?”

  “No, no, coffee is perfect, thank you,” Ivey smiled back. A cup of coffee sounded delightful.

  Gabe sat across from Ivey and gazed at her with a smirk on his face. He reminded her of a mischievous boy who was about to do something naughty.

  “So, how was your trip, dearie?” Louella obviously felt most at ease when she was doing the talking. Ivey didn’t mind this at all and felt that Louella’s questions were warm and kind. She was happy to indulge this sweet woman.

  “It was alright, thank you,” Ivey replied, as she looked shyly at Gabe.

  “The roads are just dreadful here! Aren’t they, Gabe?” Louella tried to engage Gabe, who had yet to utter more than a few words to his intended.

  “Absolutely,” he nodded, with a smile. “Dreadful.”

  Ivey couldn’t help but giggle as she noted Gabe’s expression. It seemed he was well aware of his mother’s gift of gab and smiled teasingly at her.

  “Oh, you!” Louella laughed out loud, and ruffled his hair playfully. “Always makin’ fun of his old ma!”

  The next half hour was spent in pleasant conversation. Louella gave a monologue about their town, roads, people, and customs. Ivey enjoyed listening to her, even though she was a little tired from the road, though she wished to take a quick nap, she tried not to let it show, and suppressed several yawns.

  “Maybe you’d like to rest a little?” Louella finally said, as she caught on.

  “Well, perhaps a little…” Ivey did not want to appear rude after this wonderful welcome.

  “I’ll let Gabe show you to your room, dear.” Louella stood up and approached Ivey. “We feel truly blessed to have you in our home, Ivey.” She kissed Ivey’s forehead. “Rest now.”

  She excused herself from the parlor, leaving the couple alone.

  “Shall we?” Gabe stood up and offered her his hand.

  Ivey suddenly felt that if she would ever reveal her secret, this was the time. Later on, it would only be more painful and more difficult. Now, tell him now.

  “Gabe…” she started hesitantly. “There’s something I need to tell you.” Ivey wrung her hands as she tried to find the words. Gabe looked at her, expectantly.

  “Is everything alright?” he asked.

  “I didn’t tell you something…. Something very important…” her voice trailed off.

  “There’s nothing you can tell me to scare me away from you,” Gabe said softly to reassure her that he would be by her side, no matter what.

  “Gabe, I…” maybe it would be better just to say it . “I can’t have children.” It was finally out, the entire truth, the thing she was so afraid to tell him. How would he react? What would he do? Would he send her back?

  She took his pause as a signal to explain herself.

  “I had the mumps as a child, and experienced complications. By the time I was fully recovered, the doctor said I would never be able to have children.” There was so much pain in those two sentences, so much hurt and a life of suffering in fear that no one would want her for a wife because of this.

  Gabe seemed to be pondering. He wasn’t looking at her, but somewhere out the window.

  “I know it’s all too much to take. I understand if you wish to call off our marriage,” she whispered. “I am sorry that I didn’t have the courage to tell you this sooner.” She lowered her head, looking at her feet.

  Suddenly, Gabe smiled.

  “I don’t know how to tell you this…” Gabe started, “but you just saved me a whole lotta headache, Ivey my dear!” He grabbed her by her slim waist and lifted her high up into the air. Ivey had no idea what was going on. The news made him… happy??

  “I don’t want children,” he said. She looked at him, surprised. “You see I’m already past that time when I want to run around trying to catch toddlers and change diapers. It’s just not for me. And I was actually a little worried how I was gonna tell you this without shattering your dreams, seeing as how every woman wants a family with children.” He hugged her tight. “This is perfect, don’t you see?”

  Ivey felt inexplicably torn. On one hand, she was grateful that being barren would have no consequences for her future. But, on the other hand, what kind of a person would willingly forego the opportunity to have children? It surely wasn’t common.

  CHAPTER 4

  The wedding day arrived and Ivey looked stunning. Louella urged her to pick the most beautiful wedding dress, but Ivey was a practical girl. She knew that the more beautiful the dress, the more difficult it was to get into and move around in, so she opted for something simpler, yet equally stunning. She wanted to move freely and dance whenever she felt like it, instead of sitting all evening, like a porcelain doll.

  The whole ceremony filled her with awe and happiness. She felt loved and cherished, and hoped she would continue to feel this way for many years to come. She looked at her family and friends, all enjoying themselves, at how her father’s hand always found her mother’s. This was what she wanted to have.

  When they exchanged their vows, Ivey knew that Gabe was the man for her. He was wonderful, kind, a true Christian. Yet, she couldn’t escape the feeling that something was amiss, because of his unwillingness to have children. She still thought about this occasionally, and it was remained inexplicable to her. She tried not to let this mar the day of her wedding, but it was simply a cloud she couldn’t find a silver lining to. There was something about Gabe that she was yet to discover, something she felt deep inside of her. She just hoped that it wouldn’t end up destroying their happiness.

  Their wedding night was everything Ivey had hoped it would be. Gabe showered her with kisses all night long, and after it was all done, the two fell asleep in each other’s arms. They awoke with the crowing of the roosters, signaling the start of their new life together.

  Most of their guests had left the previous day, but her parents had stayed the night. They were about to leave, but it seemed that they had something on their minds.

  “Pumpkin,” her father said as she joined them in her parlor.. “I’m afraid your mother and I have some very bad news.” It was still early in the morning, and Ivey was still aglow from her wedding night, but the tone of her father’s voice brought her back to earth.

  “What is it, father?” she squeezed Gabe’s hands as they both sat on the sofa, facing her parents.

  “A letter arrived before we were to come here.” He searched his coat pocket, and found the letter in question. “It’s regarding Wayland.”

  Ivey’s eyes widened in horror.

  “What’s happened to him!? Where is he!?” She knew something horrible was about to come, something that would change her life forever.

  “Pumpkin, Wayland died.” her father squeezed her mother’s hand tight. Her mother lowered her gaze, and several tears rolled down her cheek. “We didn’t want to tell you earlier, because we didn’t want to ruin your day of happiness. You deserved to have it.”

  Ivey felt completely numb, as if her spirit had deserted her body, leaving only an empty shell behind. Her beloved brother was dead, and there she was, c
elebrating. She felt the need to cry, but couldn’t. Her body had shut down completely.

  “Ivey, dear, are you alright?” Gabe put his arm around her. She felt colder than a December morning.

  “There’s more…” her mother spoke up. “Ivey…” Everyone looked on in anticipation but Ivey felt like she was trapped inside a cave, and all she heard were distant echoes. “Wayland had a baby.”

  “A… baby?” Ivey’s mind finally registered the words.. “Wayland had a baby?” She let go of Gabe’s hand. “With who?”

  “We don’t know,” her father coughed, his palm pressed against his heart. “It was some woman from where he was stationed. We never even got to meet her. He only spoke of her in his letters, Lavinia was her name, but that’s all we know,” he paused, to take a deep breath, while her mother wept silently. “He was about to bring her home with him, but she died in childbirth, leaving him the only one to take care of the baby. Apparently, she had no family, the poor thing… and then, he left us, too.” He buried his face in his hands.

  Ivey was listening intently, her muscles tense with the pain she was feeling.

  “The baby is with us…” her father shocked Ivey with the news. “Well, back home, with Lily. But, Ivey… there’s something else you must know…” he seemed uncomfortable talking about this in front of Gabe. “Wayland wanted you to be the child’s guardian in case something happened to him.”

  “Me!?” Ivey choked. Gabe’s arm slid from her shoulder. Her father nodded.

  “I know it’s a lot to take. We can take care of him for a while… until… you decide what to do.”

  Ivey felt like she was shot out of a cannon. All she heard were buzzing noises, as she tried to inhale deeply, to calm down her racing heart. It was all too much to take. A baby, her brother dying, she being appointed the guardian. It was like a parallel universe where all the bad things that could have happened, did happen.

  “We’re so sorry about this, darlin’… We’ll leave you to it and you let us know when you’ve decided.” He stood up, holding his wife’s hand firmly. She followed.