“What did you say?”
“I told them I didn’t believe my father could’ve done such a thing, but then I admitted it was my pride that kept me from wanting it to be true.”
Maggie’s heart lifted, and her admiration for Nate grew to new heights. “That was brave.”
“I’m not sure how brave it was, but it seemed to have an impact.”
“What happened after that?”
“I told them the rest of the story, all the way through the detectives’ visit this morning. Then Samuelson used it as an illustration, saying how releasing my pride and working with you allowed us to find out who was truly at fault. And in the same way, the management and workers needed to put aside pride and work together to resolve our differences.”
Maggie grinned. “That was clever of Reverend Samuelson to draw that parallel.”
“Yes, very clever.”
They reached the top of the hill, and Nate set the blanket and picnic basket on the grass. “The men were so caught up in my story that they could easily see his point. When it was time to begin the negotiations, Samuelson appealed to us again, asking that we each think about what was best for the whole community and be willing to give some ground.”
“And the board went along with that?”
He smiled, looking a bit amazed. “Yes, after Mr. Waller and I presented the financial information we’d gathered, it relieved some of their fears and made it possible to move ahead with the negotiations. The board agreed to a small wage increase now and another in six months if production continues at the current rate or increases. They also agreed to shorten the workday by thirty minutes, and we’ll adjust it again in three months if our output remains consistent.”
“I suppose the men were pleased.”
“Yes, pleased and relieved. They have to take the offer back to the workers for a vote, but I think they consider it a victory.”
“I’m so glad.” What a relief that so many families in Heatherton would not have to go through hardship because of an extended strike. The men would return to work with the promise of a pay increase and a shorter day.
“Yes, it’s good news for everyone.”
Maggie turned and gazed out across the rolling hills and green fields below. She’d come here several times with Nate and her father, but it had been at least five years since she’d climbed all the way to the top.
Ancient stone walls cut across the land, dividing it for farming and grazing. Pale green leaves brightened the trees and hedgerows lining the fields. Sturdy mountains rose in the west, hemming in the valley and reaching up to meet the clear-blue sky. “I’d forgotten how much I love this view.”
“Yes, it’s lovely.” His tender tone made her turn toward him, and she found his gaze on her rather than the countryside below. Her stomach fluttered and warmth spiraled through her.
He reached for her hand and wove his fingers through hers, drawing her toward him. His beautiful dark-brown eyes searched hers, piercing yet intimate. “We’ve been through a lot these past few weeks. I’m not sure what challenges we’ll face in the future, but I am sure about one thing.”
She pulled in a trembling breath. “What’s that?”
“You’re an amazing woman, Maggie Lounsbury.”
She ducked her head, savoring his words. They soothed her heart and filled in some of the broken, empty places.
“It’s true.” He waited until she looked up at him again. “You have a fierce love for your family, you’re courageous and determined, and you wouldn’t let anything stop you from discovering the truth.”
Her throat tightened as she remembered everything that had happened. “I couldn’t have done it without you.”
“True.” A teasing twinkle lit his eyes. “We make a great team.”
She nodded, her heart expanding in her chest. “Yes, we do.”
The twinkle faded, and his expression softened again. “I admire you for those qualities and many others, but my feelings for you go much deeper than admiration.” He looked into her eyes and tightened his grip on her hand. “I love you, Maggie. I have for a very long time.”
She stilled. “Truly?” Her voice came out as a breathy whisper.
“Yes, I’ve loved you ever since you were thirteen and you fell out of that tree and nearly killed me when you landed on top of me.” His lips twitched at the corners. “I think it was your inquisitive nature that won me over.”
The sweet memory washed over Maggie. “My inquisitive nature? Is that just a nice way of saying I’m a snoop?”
He chuckled and pulled her closer. “Stop making me laugh; I’m trying to be serious.”
She squelched her smile. “I’m sorry. Please, go on.”
“That day I caught a glimpse of your heart and a vision for who you would become.”
His sweet words stirred a deep longing inside. She wanted to believe him, but doubts crept in. “That was a long time ago. We’ve both changed a great deal since then.”
“Yes, we have. I hope I’m wiser now and better prepared to be the trustworthy man you deserve.”
She had no doubt her heart was safe with Nate. He had proven himself time and again. But could she tame her own stubborn spirit and be a worthy partner for him? That was the question.
She looked up at him. “I’m afraid I might disappoint you. I’m very set in my ways, and I can be quite obstinate at times. Grandmother is always telling me I should listen more and talk less, and I definitely need to curb my curiosity.”
His grin returned, and he shook his head. “Maggie, my love, you are making this proposal take much longer than I’d imagined.”
He was going to propose? She lifted her hand to cover her mouth, delight filling her heart.
He looked into her eyes again, his message of love unmistakable. “I’m sure there will be times we disappoint each other, but with the Lord’s help, I’m confident we can work through those issues and learn from them. Now, may I get on with what I want to say?”
She pressed her lips together and nodded.
“When I look ahead and think about the future, there’s only one person I can imagine by my side, only one I want to be with every day for the rest of my life.”
Her heart soared, and her mind spun with delight.
He knelt in front of her and took both her hands in his. “Margaret Ann Lounsbury, I love you with all my heart. Will you marry me?”
Happy tears blurred her vision, and she had to swallow hard before she could answer. “Yes! Oh yes!” She pulled him to his feet, and they laughed and hugged each other as a fresh round of tears coursed down her cheeks.
Nate stepped back, still holding her hands. “Oh, my darling, are you sure? My life is complicated, and it’s about to become much more so with the trial and whatever comes after.”
“Yes, I’m so very sure. I love you, Nate. No matter what the future holds, I want to share it with you.”
He ran his hand gently down her cheek. Then he leaned closer and kissed her, tenderly, lingering as though her kiss infused him with hope and strength. Maggie’s arms slipped around his waist, and she relaxed in his embrace, enjoying his sweet kiss. This was where she belonged, safe in his arms, close to his heart.
He finally stepped back, his face glowing with life and joy. “Are you happy, my darling?”
“Yes, so very happy.” She reached up and tenderly touched his face, tracing his handsome jaw, drinking in the look of love in his eyes.
What wonderful gifts the Lord had given her. He had shown His faithfulness by healing her sorrow and comforting her with His love. His light had overcome the darkness and exposed the lies and secrets that had held them all captive for so long. And He had given her justice for her cause, yet He’d also taught her the value of mercy.
Nate drew her down beside him. They sat on the blanket, enjoying their picnic and talking about their hopes for the future until the sinking sun turned the sky brilliant gold and orange. When the fiery rays faded to pink and purple, they rose
and collected the basket and blanket.
Maggie glanced over her shoulder at the fading colors of the sunset, and a gentle breeze fluttered up the mountainside and surrounded her. It was almost as if she could hear her father whisper his blessing over them. Happy tears filled her eyes as she received that gift and tucked it away in her heart.
Then she took Nate’s hand, and they walked down the path together, her mind filled with happy expectation and her heart overflowing with joy.
A bright-red ribbon fluttered across the open doorway of the newly rebuilt millinery shop in the center of Heatherton. The pristine building almost seemed to glow that crisp October morning, its windowpanes sparkling and new wooden window boxes overflowing with bright fall flowers.
The sun shone down from a clear blue sky and warmed Maggie’s shoulders. The faint scent of burning leaves and a whiff of cinnamon from Mrs. Fenwick’s Teashop drifted past, tickling her nose. Maggie smiled as she let her gaze travel around the crowd of friends and neighbors who had gathered to celebrate the reopening of their shop.
How thankful she was that the insurance settlement had finally come through in July. Those funds had allowed them to complete the rebuilding work, furnish the shop, and restock the supplies they needed.
“Good day, Maggie.” Mr. Alvin Neatherton lifted his cap to her.
“Good day to you, sir.” She crossed toward him, glancing up at the scaffolding stretching across the front wall of his business. “It looks like it won’t be too long before you can reopen too.”
He nodded, looking pleased. “We have a few more weeks of work, but Neatherton’s Shoes and Boots should be back in business before the weather turns too cold.”
“I’m very happy to hear it.” Maggie motioned toward his shop. “If you need anything, I hope you’ll come and see us.”
“I will. You and Mrs. Hayes have always been good neighbors.”
She touched his arm and sent him a smile. “As you’ve been to us.” Friends like the Neathertons were a gift and a blessing. She would never forget them even after she married Nate and moved to Morningside.
Joseph strode through the crowd toward them, his blond hair falling over his forehead and into his eyes. He wore a wrinkled pair of brown trousers and a blue shirt with the top button missing. “Hello, Maggie. How are you?”
“Very well. And you?”
“As right as rain.” His carefree smile confirmed what she’d sensed the last few times they’d seen each other—he was ready to resume a comfortable friendship, and she was glad to oblige. She wondered if his happy mood was due to the fact that she’d seen him walking Ruth Horton home from church the last three Sundays. Ruth was a fine young woman, the daughter of one of the village grocers. She was known for her expert baking and delicious meals. Maggie hoped their friendship would grow into something lasting. Joseph deserved a happy future with a loving wife and family.
Clara and Owen wove through the crowd and found a spot near the front, not too far away from Maggie. Clara lifted her hand and waved. Maggie returned the greeting to her soon-to-be sister-in-law. Clara and Owen held hands and exchanged a loving look. They had a long engagement ahead of them, but they were looking forward to marrying after Owen returned from his veterinary training in Edinburgh.
Someone called Maggie’s name and she turned.
Lilly and Rob made their way through the crowd toward her. Lilly embraced Maggie. “It looks like half the village has come out to celebrate with you.”
“Yes, it does, and I’m so glad. I know it means so much to Grandmother.” Maggie scanned the crowd and spotted her grandmother across the way with her good friend Esther Fenwick from the teashop. Grandmother’s pink cheeks glowed as she continued greeting friends and catching up on the village news.
“We certainly couldn’t be happier to see the shop open again.” Lilly looked up at Rob with a radiant smile and tucked her arm through his.
Rob returned a proud grin and patted his bride’s hand. “You’re right about that.”
Maggie was so happy for them. Just a few days after the strike was settled, Lilly had told Maggie she and Rob wanted to be married in June. She would be leaving service and hoped to find work in the village. She was determined to help the Carters and not be a burden to them.
As Maggie listened to Lilly talk about her hopes for the future, an idea rose in her mind. What if she and Grandmother trained Lilly and Rose Carter to make hats and eventually take over the shop? When Maggie asked Grandmother about it later, she was thrilled with the idea and said she would enjoy working with them until she was ready to retire and take on a more restful routine.
Maggie, Grandmother, and Violet would stay at the new shop until Maggie and Nate’s wedding in December. After they all moved to Morningside, Lilly and Rob would take over the rooms above the millinery shop and have a place of their own. Grandmother would go into the village some afternoons by carriage to help prepare Rose and Lilly to take over the shop. It seemed like a wonderful plan that would be good for everyone.
Maggie turned to Rob. “How is your father?”
“Much better. Reverend Samuelson offered him a part-time job caring for the grounds at Saint Peter’s. He doesn’t have full use of his hand, but he’s able to do most of the gardening tasks, and he’s proud to be working again.”
“That’s wonderful.” How kind of Reverend Samuelson to give Mr. Carter the opportunity to help support his family. Maggie admired the reverend, and she was very thankful Nate’s friendship with him continued to grow.
“Look at me, Maggie!” Violet’s voice rang out above the crowd.
Maggie turned, and her heart lifted as her sister passed by, riding atop Juniper. Nate walked at Violet’s side, keeping an eye on her and guiding them toward the hitching post just past the millinery shop. He looked as handsome as ever in his dashing charcoal suit with the burgundy vest.
Maggie walked over to meet her sister and Nate. She patted Violet’s healed leg. “You’re becoming quite the horsewoman.”
“Nate says I’m doing very well.” Violet sent him a happy grin.
“You are indeed.” Nate winked at Maggie, then took the reins, tied up the horse, and helped Violet dismount. As soon as Violet was safely on the ground, he leaned toward Maggie and kissed her cheek. “You’re looking lovely this morning, my dear.”
She gazed into his eyes and savored the tender message there. “Thank you.”
How blessed she was to have the love of a fine man like Nate Harcourt. In spite of his commitment to manage Morningside and oversee matters at Clifton, he had made her happiness a priority these last few months, even while he guided his family through the ordeal of Roland Dixon’s trial.
Helen had been called as a witness, and she’d been mortified that she had to testify in court and repeat her painful past. But the facts of the case had already circulated through the county before the trial, and the gossip died down soon after. Roland was found guilty and would spend at least fifteen years in prison.
Helen tried to visit him during the trial, but he had refused to see her. She accepted his decision surprisingly well, and she seemed to be making an effort to live a more honest life, but she could still be difficult at times. Maggie and Nate would probably face new challenges in their relationship with Helen after they married, but Maggie was hopeful they could find common ground and forge a new path through those challenges.
Maggie glanced around once more. “It looks like everyone is here except Reverend Samuelson. Have you seen him?”
Nate looked through the crowd. “Not yet, but I’m sure he’ll be along.” They had asked him to come and say a prayer to bless the new shop before they cut the ribbon and welcomed everyone inside.
Nate took Maggie’s hand and she clasped Violet’s as they walked back toward the shop entrance. She peeked through the front window, and pleasant memories filled her mind…happy days styling hats with Grandmother while Violet played nearby…and cozy evenings in the kitchen behind the shop wher
e they gathered around the fireplace and talked about the events of the day.
She’d be leaving that life behind in two months when she married Nate and became his wife, but Grandmother and Violet would come with her.
A warm wave of happiness wrapped around Maggie’s heart as she thought of all that lay ahead. She had already started teaching Lilly and Rose the basics of hat making three afternoons a week, and in exchange they were sewing her wedding dress. They’d also promised to help her carry out plans for that special day. She was thankful and blessed—so very blessed.
Nate leaned down. “Tell me the secret behind that lovely smile.” His voice was soft and husky, and it melted her heart a little more.
“I was just thinking about our wedding plans.”
He grinned and a mischievous twinkle lit his eyes. “Ah, no wonder you’re smiling.”
Maggie’s cheeks warmed, but she didn’t really mind his teasing. “I’m looking forward to our wedding. It will be a new beginning for us.”
His teasing expression faded to tenderness, and he slipped his arm around her waist, drawing her closer. “You’re right, and I’m looking forward to it as well.”
Hurried footsteps sounded behind them, and Maggie and Nate turned.
Reverend Samuelson wove his way through the crowd toward them. “I’m so sorry to be late.” He clutched his Bible beneath his arm and swiped his hand across his flushed face. His tie had come loose, and he looked as though he’d run all the way from the church.
Nate stepped toward him. “Is everything all right?”
“Yes, everything is fine. I just got so absorbed in writing my sermon notes, I didn’t realize the time.”
Nate grinned and clapped his friend on the shoulder. “No harm done. I think we’re ready to begin whenever you are.”
“Very well.” He straightened his tie, still looking a bit flustered, and moved toward the front door of the shop.
Maggie, Nate, and Violet followed, and Grandmother joined them there.
Reverend Samuelson lifted his hand and motioned everyone toward him. “Let’s all come closer.” He waited while their friends and fellow merchants crowded around, then he smiled at the group. “Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to join this man and this—”
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