Trusting Grace

by Maggie Brendan

  Grace took her hand. “Are you sure?”

  “I’m perfectly sure. Frank and I decided on that long ago if the baby was a girl.”

  Grace squeezed her hand. “Then I’m proud to have a namesake. Very proud. Thank you so much.” Her heart swelled with love.

  There was a knock at the open door, and Dr. Avery entered. “I see I’m about five minutes too late. First babies can come very quickly sometimes.” He walked over and checked out the baby with his stethoscope, then went over to Ginny’s side. He nodded. “Mother and daughter are fine. You can go down, Nell, and let Frank know. I’ll finish up here.”

  “Is there anything more I can do?” Grace asked the doctor.

  “You did a good job, but from the look on your face, I’d say it was your first time to deliver a baby?” The doctor arched a brow at her.

  She nodded. “That’s true.”

  “Then I’m happy there were no complications. Not all births are this easy,” he whispered.

  They both looked over at Ginny, content to be holding her first child to her breast. If ever her heart felt fuller, Grace couldn’t recall.

  Once Frank had come back downstairs beaming with pride and shared his thanks, Grace told him she must go pick up her father, who by this time would be wondering what happened to her.

  “Frank, I’m so proud the two of you decided to name the baby after me. I don’t know what to say, really.”

  Frank kissed her cheek. “It was the right decision. Ginny loves you like the sister she never had.”

  Grace nodded, unable to speak, then shooed the girls toward the door to leave.

  “Let me know if there’s anything at all I can do to help out.”

  “We will, but I’m sure Nell will stay right by her side. Thank you again for being here, and for the quilt. Becky showed it to me. It’s quite beautiful.”

  “You’re both welcome. I’ll come back and check on her once she’s had a chance to rest.”

  With the sale of the potato crop behind them, Robert and Tom walked the streets looking for a place to get something to eat. Tomorrow they’d head back to the Gallatin Valley with empty wagons to haul. The potatoes had sold for thirteen cents a pound—a good price. Grace would be pleased.

  Tom pointed out a nearby establishment. “This place looks good and I’m starving to death.”

  “Fine with me, son. I could eat the biggest steak this side of the Gallatin River.”

  Service was quick, and they soon shoveled in their supper. “Tom, thanks for coming along with me. This was a job for a man, but you stepped up to the challenge.”

  Tom sat up a little straighter with pride. “Told you I was growing up.” He grinned, taking in another mouthful of potatoes. “Funny, I didn’t think I wanted to lay my eyes on another potato until I got hungry.” He laughed.

  “I felt the same way after digging and hauling them, but they sure taste better than they look.” Robert hesitated a moment, then added, “I’m glad things are square between us. If you keep working this hard, I’ll help you in every way I can to go to medical school. You may even get a scholarship. Won’t know until you’re old enough to apply.”

  Tom put his fork down. “I know I was a rotten kid before and gave you a hard time. Reckon I was just mad at the world.”

  “And I understand that. It’s okay. You were struggling and trying to find your place after your mother died. I’m really sorry that we started out on the wrong foot. But look at us now.”

  “Do you think you’ll ever marry again? My sisters need a mama,” he said matter-of-factly.

  “I’m not sure. Don’t take this the wrong way, but I’m a little gun-shy after your mother.”

  “No hard feelings. I guess she didn’t tell you about us because she thought you wouldn’t want her.”

  “That’s understandable. But I loved her, and she didn’t trust my love enough to believe that I would’ve accepted anything she told me—not until she was dying. I guess my reaction was not very gentlemanly either, and I apologize for that.” Robert wiped his mouth, then laid his napkin aside. “I’m as full as a tick on a dog’s back.”

  Tom laughed, then belched. “Oops, sorry.”

  Robert tried to cover a chuckle. “We’ll work on those manners too while we’re at it. Let me pay the bill, then we’ll go help ourselves to a bath and a good night’s sleep before heading back.”

  “I’m all for that,” Tom responded.

  Nearly a week had passed since Robert left, and every time she passed a window Grace looked for him and Tom. She was like a child looking for Christmas. She wasn’t sure when they’d return, but it should be nearing that time. Everyday farm chores had kept her and the girls busy, and she realized how much she’d come to rely on Robert. Tom had been an enormous help with the harvest too.

  It was well after lunch. The dishes were done, and Becky was reading but taking the time to help Sarah with unfamiliar words in her book. Grace smiled watching them. Such sweet girls, and what a blessing they’d turned out to be in her life and her father’s.

  Grace was mending and Owen was reading a week-old newspaper when she heard the wagons rumbling into the yard. Grace and the girls jumped at the sound and hurried out to meet Robert and Tom. Owen took his time with his cane, but stood on the porch and waved across the yard to them in greeting.

  Grace and the girls walked over to the barn when Robert stopped the wagon. “I’m glad you’re both back,” she said. Tom was right behind him, driving the second wagon like a pro. Robert needed a shave but was still ruggedly handsome, and his tan was deeper. Tom looked tired but different somehow. She knew when you don’t see someone every day when they’re in the growing stage, it could appear that suddenly their facial features were rearranged or changed somehow. Had he grown? She hoped the trip wasn’t too hard on him. He was tall, but not too muscular. Guiding the horse and wagon loaded down had to be a big change for him.

  “Me too,” Robert answered. “It was a pretty long haul, but we got thirteen cents a pound, and that’s good in this market.”

  She smiled up at him. “Yes, I agree. Any trouble along the way?”

  “Not a bit. The weather was good too.” Robert climbed down a little stiffly, watching while Tom did the same.

  Sarah rushed over and hugged Robert about the legs and he kissed the top of her head. “Sweet little Sarah. I’ve missed you and Becky.”

  Becky looked over at her brother, her arms crossed. “Believe it or not, I’ve missed you, even though you can be aggravating to me most of the time.”

  Tom poked his tongue out at her, then yanked one of her braids. “I take that as a compliment then.”

  “We’ll get the horses rubbed down, then head on back to town if you don’t mind. I think we’re about out of steam for the rest of the day. Guess I’m not as young as I used to be.”

  “Not at all. Both of you deserve to get some rest,” she answered. “I can feed and rub the horses down so you don’t have to stay and do that.”

  “I’m not that tired.” Robert flashed her a grin. “Do you have anything you can make sandwiches with? We had a beef jerky snack earlier, but other than breakfast that’s all. We’ll take care of the horses if you can get us something to eat.”

  “If you insist. Come on, girls, let’s rustle up something to feed these hungry men.”

  While they ate, everyone sat with them in the kitchen, listening to tales about the trip. Grace poured coffee for her and Owen, then related how she came to deliver Ginny’s baby.

  “My, but that must’ve been quite an event. I’m proud of you. I’m assuming Ginny and the baby are doing fine?” Robert gazed at Grace.

  Grace had a hard time looking away when he locked eyes with her like that. “Yes, everyone is well. Tomorrow, I’ll go check on her again and hold the baby awhile.”

  “She named the baby Grace,” Becky inserted. “Wasn’t that sweet? I love babies.”

  Robert’s gaze softened. “Now that is wonderful, and I’m not
surprised one bit.”

  Owen chuckled. “Trouble is, now Grace won’t be able to name her own child after herself.”

  Grace felt her face burn. “It doesn’t look as though that’s a concern anytime soon.”

  Robert glanced at Owen, then Grace. “You never know . . .”

  “I’d love to help you with your baby when it comes,” Becky said.

  “If I ever marry again, I would be happy to have your help, and you too, Sarah,” Grace answered, not wanting to leave her out. She avoided Robert’s eyes, though she could feel them on her.

  40

  Something special happened when Grace held her namesake against her and felt the baby’s heartbeat—an impact greater than that sweet smell that all babies have. A deep longing for a child hit her full force. “Ginny, she is so perfect and beautiful.”

  “Just like you, Grace, and I must add that you look very natural holding Grace.”

  “Is she a fussy baby?” she asked, not taking her eyes off of the baby’s face.

  “Only when she is hungry, but otherwise, a new mother couldn’t ask for a better baby the first time around.” Ginny folded diapers while they talked.

  “That’s good. It’s obvious that Frank dotes on her already.” The baby stirred awake, and Grace rocked back and forth with a soothing coo.

  “Are you going to the ball with Robert?” Ginny asked.

  Grace looked up with a sigh. “He hasn’t asked me. Besides, I don’t own a fancy ball gown and have no one to make one for me.”

  Ginny snapped her fingers. “I know exactly what you can wear. I have a beautiful gown that I bought before I knew I was pregnant. There’s no way it’ll fit me now. My figure has changed, and it would be far too tight.”

  “Oh, I wouldn’t dare take your new dress. You’ll be able to wear it soon, I’m sure.”

  Ginny shook her head. “Not before the ball though. While you’re holding the baby, I’ll go get it for you.”

  She returned shortly with a gorgeous gown the shade of emerald. Grace drew in a deep breath. “It’s stunning,” she whispered above the baby’s head.

  “Grace is asleep, so why don’t you put her in her crib and take a closer look.”

  “All right.” Gently she placed the baby in her crib, then the two of them stopped momentarily to stare down at her precious visage. “I could hold her forever.”

  “Me too, however, I’d never get anything done, because it’s hard to lay her down. I love the way she snuggles against me, contented after her feeding.”

  “I could only hope to be so fortunate,” Grace murmured wistfully.

  Ginny squeezed her arm. “You will be. Don’t give up hope.”

  They tiptoed away reluctantly so Grace could examine the gown. It was actually two pieces. The bodice had black silk embroidery with black jeweled buttons. Black silk fringe was on the upper sleeves, and the skirt had silk edging sewn around the bottom. Scattered along the sleeves and above the silk trim at the bottom were tiny black embroidered flowers. A cream, lace-edged collar completed the neck of the bodice.

  “This is much too beautiful for me, Ginny. I’ve never worn anything like this,” Grace exclaimed, holding the bodice up to her.

  “Then it’s time you did. I guarantee you’ll turn some heads wearing it. In fact, you and I have the same coloring, so it’ll work perfectly for you. I insist you take it.”

  “But what if I’m not asked?”

  Ginny giggled. “You will be. Trust me.”

  “Thank you, my friend, but I’m afraid you’re a little prejudiced.” Grace laughed.

  The baby started to cry and they both made a beeline for the crib, forgetting all about the ball.

  Stella served up a special supper for Tom and Robert the next day, and her boarders were beneficiaries of her excellent cooking. After everyone went their various ways, mostly to their rooms, Robert stayed behind to help with the cleanup. He felt it was the least he could do. Besides, she had become more like a mother to him than a friend, and she took a special interest in the children, which pleased him immensely.

  “Stella, if you keep this up, I’m gonna have to buy larger trousers.”

  “The way I see it, Robert, you could afford to gain a few pounds,” Stella teased. “You’ve been working too hard. Say, now that the harvest is over, do you plan to stay around these parts or move on?”

  “I have no plans to leave yet,” he said, stacking the plates at the sink.

  “That sounds vague. Have you got something planned? Perhaps wooing a certain young woman?”

  He gave her an intense look. “Maybe.”

  Stella dried a dish, then laid it aside. “Why not start by inviting her to the Bozeman Ball?”

  “Nah. I don’t even own a suit, and it’s not likely that I can get one quick enough.”

  “But it’s the social event of the season,” she protested, hands resting on her hips. You must invite Grace. And as for a suitable suit, I know just the person to introduce you to.”

  “Well, I don’t know—”

  “Sure you do. Now don’t argue. A young man like you shouldn’t be hiding away at home when there’s a ball here in his town. Come with me. It’s just a short walk,” she said, not taking no for an answer. “I’ll walk you over there right now.” She removed her apron and waited for his response.

  What else could he do? He followed Stella down the street to a row of small, hastily built clapboard houses, until she stopped. “She hasn’t hung out a shingle yet. But once folks discover how fast she is with her sewing, you can bet she’ll be extremely busy. Here we are.”

  Stella continued to walk up the sidewalk to the front door of a clapboard house with black shutters. “Her name is Opal.” Stella lost no time and rapped on the door. Momentarily, a comely young woman answered the door. “Good evening, Stella,” she said hesitantly when she saw Robert with her.

  “Opal, I don’t mean to intrude, but I’d like you to meet Robert Frasier. Are you busy?”

  Opal smiled. “Not at all, just cleaning up after supper. Please come in.” She led them to the parlor and stuck out her hand. “I’m Opal Sloan.”

  “Nice to meet you,” he answered, but wasn’t sure what else to say.

  Opal nodded, withdrawing her hand. “Why don’t you have a seat?”

  The odor of fried onions and liver wafted on the air. Robert glanced about the homey but untidy parlor. Evidence of more family members? She looked younger than he was, but he’d never been a good judge of age, especially in women.

  Stella took over. “Thanks, but we won’t be here long. Robert is looking for someone to make him a decent suit for the Bozeman Ball next Saturday, and I told him about you. Would you have time to accommodate such a quick request?”

  “Mmm.” Opal backed away, sizing him up. “I think I could do that. He’s tall, but it shouldn’t take me long.”

  “I guess I should be relieved?” Robert chuckled and glanced over at Stella, and she winked. “What do you need me to do? Go buy the material? I have no knowledge about those kinds of things.”

  “You have nothing to be concerned about. That’s my job.” Opal smiled at him.

  Robert liked her warm friendliness, which put him at ease. He’d have to get busy and ask Grace to go to the ball.

  He heard the sound of a baby crying from down the hall, and Opal glanced in that direction. “I’m sorry, but I need to take care of the baby now, so I’ll need you to return first thing in the morning for me to get your measurements, if you don’t mind.” Her tone was apologetic. “Sometimes she can be a handful when I need to be working.”

  “I understand.” Robert nodded. “Thank you, Opal.”

  Opal walked them to the front door. “Do you think you can stop by first thing in the morning?”

  “I can do that on my way to work.”

  Opal gave him a warm but tired smile.

  “Good. Could you please come to the back entrance? That’s where I have my sewing area set up for now so it�
�s away from the living area.” The baby’s wails began to get louder. “I’m sorry, I must go to her.”

  She scurried away and they stepped outside, closing the door. “I told you she’d be able to do it,” Stella said.

  “Can we keep this between us, Stella?”

  Stella looked at him above the spectacles low on her nose. “Sure . . . but why?”

  “I want to surprise Grace. She has never seen me in anything but trousers and a chambray work shirt.”

  Stella nodded. “I see. Then I’m sure she will be delightfully surprised.”

  They continued back to the boardinghouse. Robert paused before he went to his room. “Thank you for helping me out, Stella. By the way, are you and Owen going to the ball?”

  “Yes, we’ll be there. He may not be able to dance, but we aren’t going to miss out on the fun. Almost everyone attends.”

  Robert walked to the back of Opal’s house the next morning and tapped on the door and waited. Since the harvest was over, Tom was working all day for Eli, so he didn’t have to explain where he was going. The girls didn’t always go to the farm with him every day now. Summer would soon drift into fall and school would be upon them again.

  The door swung open and Opal held a baby on her hip, measuring tape around her neck and a pincushion strapped to her wrist. “Good morning.” She stepped aside for him to enter.

  “Is this the little one that was crying last night?” Robert asked as he entered.

  “I’m afraid so.” Opal grinned. “She’s sweet most of the time . . . unless I’m finishing a sewing project.”

  Robert decided she was cute as far as babies go, but never having been around them, he didn’t really know. “What’s her name?”

  “Annie. She’s six months old. My husband died in a mining accident before she was born. I’ll measure you as soon as I can get her settled again in her crib with a toy or two for company, if you’ll wait right here.”

  “I’m very sorry to hear that.” Robert watched her eyes fill with tears.

  “Yes, well . . .” She lowered her eyes and slipped down the hallway.