by Renee Ryan
Beryl’s eyes rounded in wonder. “Truly?”
“Truly. Now hurry.”
While her friend complied, Rosamond returned to the kitchen. The two men stood, as they had last evening. Their refined manners pleased her. Not every man understood the importance of such a gallant gesture.
“Beryl wasn’t expecting company.” She sat in the chair Garrick held for her, another chivalrous move on his part. Her opinion of him rose a little. “She’ll join us soon.”
“Capital.” Percy’s blue eyes brightened just as Beryl’s had.
Garrick, however, frowned as he reclaimed his chair. Rosamond’s opinion of him plummeted. How could he dislike sweet Beryl when he didn’t even know her?
“So, you boys are planning to build that hotel.” Mabel poured coffee for Rosamond.
“Not I, madam.” Percy chuckled. “I accompanied Garrick so I could see the famous—or should I say, infamous—American West.” He leaned toward Mabel with a playful smirk. “I believe the train robbery was staged entirely for our amusement, what?”
Mabel slapped his shoulder and howled with laughter. “You’ll do fine out here, boy. You’ll do fine.”
He grinned despite his coffee sloshing onto the tablecloth. Again, Garrick’s frown revealed an opposite reaction, disapproval of the kind lady who was showing him such generous hospitality. Before Rosamond could frown back at him, Beryl entered.
The men stood, and Percy stepped forward and bowed over her hand. “Miss Eberly, I presume?”
Beryl received him with the grace she’d learned at the academy. “How do you do, sir? You must forgive me for not knowing your name. We should have introduced ourselves after the train robbery, but—” Confusion clouded her face, and Rosamond gasped softly. Her friend almost revealed her hysteria to her mother.
“Ah, but with no one to properly introduce us…” Percy touched her elbow and drew her to the table as if he were the host. “Please permit the informality. I am Percy Morrow, and this is my cousin, Garrick Wakefield.”
Garrick gave a sober bow while Percy continued to fuss over Beryl. “Your mother’s cinnamon rolls are delicious beyond description. Do have one.”
Rosamond’s eyes stung. Percy had just rescued Beryl. What a good man, exactly what her friend needed.
Beryl regained her composure, and she and Percy began to chat. Mabel eyed Rosamond and lifted one eyebrow. Rosamond returned a tiny nod, bringing a pleased smile from her hostess.
Boisterous laughter sounded in the hallway as Beryl’s father and her three unmarried sisters entered. She sent Rosamond a panicked look.
“Oh, good.” Rosamond knew of only one way to manage this situation: head-on. “You gentlemen will get to meet more Eberlys.” These next few minutes might be awkward.
*
Garrick stood beside Percy while bedlam descended upon the kitchen as a ruddy, middle-aged man and three attractive young ladies in Western garb entered. Unlike quiet, well-mannered Beryl, the girls jostled each other and more yelled than talked.
“Mabel, honey,” the man said, “we could smell your baking clear out in the barn.” He blinked. “Well, I’ll be a skinned jackrabbit. I didn’t know we had company.”
Garrick shuddered inwardly at the picture the man’s metaphor produced.
“You didn’t notice their horses? Honey, you need spectacles.” With no attempt at formality, Mabel pointed at Percy and Garrick and announced their names. “Boys, this here’s my George, and these are three more of our girls, Laurie, Georgia and Grace. Grace is the deputy sheriff. She’s been keeping the peace in town since a bank robbery a few years ago. I’m glad we got us a full-time sheriff now so she can help out around here a bit more. Maisie, she’s our oldest daughter, is married to the town doctor. You’ll meet them at church tomorrow.”
While she chattered on about her family, Garrick tried to grasp the idea of a female law officer. Granted, at nearly six feet tall and wearing a gun at her side, Grace seemed capable of managing wrongdoers. Even ladylike Rosamond had helped defeat the train robbers. Perhaps these Western women needed to be as tough as the men. Except Beryl, whose cheerful chat with Percy ended the moment her sisters entered the room. Curious. Yet no matter what he saw here, he must try not to judge any of them by proper British standards.
“I don’t know, Ma.” Grace grabbed a roll from the platter. “Sheriff Lawson said this mornin’ he’s countin’ on me to help him.” She took a bite but kept talking. “Beryl’s home now. She can help you.”
Beryl began to tremble.
“Oh, dear.” Rosamond put an arm around her friend. “I’m counting on Beryl to help me plan our new high school.” She smiled at the two younger sisters. “I hope you’ll be enrolling in our classes.”
Warmth swept through Garrick’s chest. He didn’t understand the situation, but Rosamond’s care for her friend suggested an admirable depth of character. Perhaps working with her on the hotel project wouldn’t be so difficult, after all.
“In fact,” Rosamond said, “we’ve a lot to plan and need to start right away. Mabel, will you let Beryl spend a few weeks with us, starting tomorrow after church?”
Garrick’s warm feelings sank to his stomach like a cold lead weight. With Percy and Beryl in the same house, how could he prevent their forming an attachment?
From the enthusiasm on Percy’s face, Garrick feared it was already too late.
*
Rosamond had tried to outwit Mother’s maneuvering, but here she sat beside Garrick in the church pew. This afternoon she must persuade Mother to stop her matchmaking. After Garrick’s obvious disapproval of Beryl and Percy’s developing romance, she couldn’t even like Garrick, much less love him.
Of course Reverend Thomas gave a sermon on loving one’s neighbor. She’d learned long ago the pastor always preached what she needed to hear, as though the Lord whispered in his ear that Miss Rosamond Northam wasn’t listening to Him, so His servant must speak to her in an audible voice she couldn’t miss. How silly. She hadn’t spoken to Reverend Thomas since returning from Boston, so he knew nothing of her spiritual disposition. Still, she paid attention.
Despite the conviction churning within, she enjoyed being back in her home church. Would Garrick turn up his nose at their simple service? Oh, dear. There she went again, judging him. Lord, help me to love him with Your love.
Across the sanctuary, Beryl sat with her family. Occasionally, she smiled hopefully at Rosamond, which must mean her folks had given permission for her move to Four Stones. Last night, Mother had welcomed the prospect, for she always thrived with a houseful of guests.
Rosamond hoped none of Beryl’s sisters objected. Beryl wanted to please everyone. A complaint from a beloved sister might make her stay home, whatever the cost emotionally. Yesterday as they toured the Eberly ranch with the Englishmen, Laurie and Georgia had teased Beryl about her parasol. Though she laughed, Rosamond could see they’d hurt her feelings.
As the final hymn ended, Mother gave Garrick a smile. “Rosamond will introduce you and Percy to Reverend Thomas while Mabel and I count the offering.”
Rosamond smiled, despite her annoyance. “Certainly. Come along, gentlemen.” Maybe she could leave them with Reverend Thomas and find Beryl. Or leave Garrick with the pastor and take Percy to find Beryl. Rosamond didn’t care for Mother’s matchmaking on her behalf, but she certainly enjoyed doing it for her friend.
*
Garrick approved the way Reverend Thomas conducted the service. His sermon revealed an intelligent theological mind. The service was simple, the music a pleasant surprise. The gray-haired organist played the pump organ with a dexterity that belied her age. Most of the congregants sang heartily, and most sang in tune. After the closing hymn, Garrick felt his spiritual cup full to overflowing.
Mrs. Northam needn’t have assigned Rosamond the task of introductions, for the minister stood at the door to speak to each parishioner. Yet after hearing a fine message on loving one’s neighbor, Garrick looked
forward to Rosamond’s company. Her rose-scented perfume only added to the pleasure.
Each churchgoer lining the aisle received a warm, personal greeting from the minister. In return, some complimented the sermon while others shared news. Garrick planned his own remarks with care.
“Rosamond!” The minister greeted her with a warm smile. “Look at you. All grown up.”
She beamed like a child praised by a parent, although the young minister was perhaps twenty-eight and no more than thirty.
“Reverend Thomas, your sermon was just what I needed today.” She glanced at Garrick.
His heart sank. Did she have so much trouble viewing him with Christian charity?
“Permit me to present Garrick Wakefield and Percy Morrow.”
As she made the introduction, Garrick realized his mistake. She’d looked at him only to bring him into the conversation. He must cease thinking she bore some antagonism toward him.
After the presentations had been made and hands shaken, Percy added his compliment. Garrick then took his turn.
“Your quotation from Spurgeon’s sermon was most appropriate, sir.” He saw Rosamond’s eyebrows arch. Had his remark sounded arrogant? “When I was a lad, I had the pleasure of hearing Spurgeon speak at Metropolitan Tabernacle. His message ‘Pray without ceasing’ entirely changed my prayer life. In fact, my life in general.”
“Ah, you know Spurgeon’s work?” The minister spoke in an amiable Southern drawl.
“Indeed. I have a volume of his sermons that provides excellent reading.”
“An entire volume?” If a minister could be accused of envy, Reverend Thomas’s eyes took on just such a longing. “I have only a few pamphlets and quotations.”
“You must borrow mine.” He’d make it a gift and purchase another copy when he returned to London. “I’ll bring it tomorrow.” He glanced at Rosamond, whose half smile and warm gaze indicated approval of…something he’d done? “Would tomorrow afternoon be acceptable?”
“Yes.” She looked behind them. “We should move on.”
“Of course.” He turned back to the minister. “Could we meet for Scripture study?”
Reverend Thomas smiled. “Entirely possible. We can begin tomorrow, if you like.”
“Excellent.” Glancing around for Percy’s agreement, he saw his cousin and Rosamond crossing the churchyard toward the Eberly girls.
Beryl gazed up at Percy from beneath her lace parasol. The two younger ones chatted merrily. Grace stood watching, arms crossed, gun hanging at her side, and a critical gleam emanating from those intense blue eyes. Perhaps she agreed with Garrick that Percy and Beryl shouldn’t form an unsuitable attachment.
He took a step in that direction only to be intercepted by Rand and Tolley Northam. Tolley gave him a curt nod, and his lips formed a thin line.
Rand shook his hand. “Did you enjoy the service?”
“Indeed, I did.” He wanted to move on but didn’t want to offend this man. Tolley already found him lacking in some way. For his own part, Garrick must apply today’s sermon and forgive Tolley for tripping him during yesterday’s branding. It hadn’t been an accident or prank, but a malicious act.
“I told my Sunday school class about you and Percy,” Rand said. “They’d enjoy hearing from you. Would you address them next Sunday morning? We meet an hour before the church service, and we can invite Nate’s class to join us.”
The unexpected request astonished him. “It would be a privilege, sir.” How remarkable that the older two brothers taught Sunday school. Speaking to the lads was an honor he wouldn’t decline.
“Yeah,” Tolley said. “They’ll get a real hoot out of the funny way you talk.”
Rand chuckled, giving Garrick pause. Was his invitation meant to be an insult rather than an honor? A knot formed in his chest. Whatever they threw at him, he must answer without offending or he’d risk losing Colonel Northam’s good opinion.
Rand elbowed his brother. “You’d be surprised, kid. Some of these boys hanker to see the world beyond the San Luis Valley. They may never travel abroad, so this’ll be a real treat.”
Garrick’s knot eased. Tolley, however, snorted and walked away. His brother’s use of “kid” made him flinch. Oddly, Garrick felt a measure of empathy, having endured his own share of set downs. At the birth of Viscount Eddington, Uncle’s first son, Garrick was demoted in Society’s view. No longer heir presumptive to an earldom, thus no longer sought after for future favors, either social or political. Of course, Tolley probably wouldn’t understand how crushing that had been. As one of four heirs to his father’s wealth, he had a secure future, even if his inheritance was part of a dusty cattle ranch in this remote mountain valley.
Garrick must find a way to befriend him, even though Tolley seemed determined to dislike him. Even though a veiled threat shaded every look the younger man sent his way.
Chapter Four
Rosamond spent the early part of Sunday afternoon making space for Beryl’s clothes in her wardrobe.
As she worked, she searched for reasons to like Garrick. He’d given his valet the day off but seemed displeased when Roberts and Richards attended a different church with Rita and Consuela. Of course before Roberts left, he made sure Garrick was properly dressed. She wouldn’t let those small matters count for anything. Not much, anyway.
With her room in order, she searched for Percy and found him relaxing in a rocking chair on the front porch. Garrick sat on the porch swing.
“Are you ready?” Why did she sound so giddy? “Beryl’s waiting for us.”
Percy nodded. “I’ll be delighted to see her again.” Such a sweet remark, especially since he’d talked with Beryl just a few hours ago.
Was that frown Garrick wore his favorite expression? As they walked around the house toward the barn, Rosamond chided herself. She must stop these unkind thoughts about him.
“We’ll take a wagon for Beryl’s trunk,” she said, “but if you feel like riding, we can saddle horses, too.”
Garrick stopped. “Do you mean…?” He clamped his mouth shut and resumed walking.
Rosamond could guess what he’d started to say. “Yep.” Her teachers at the academy would have apoplexy over her quick return to Western slang. Yet something about Garrick made her want to do just that. Right away, her conscience smote her. Deliberately irritating a person wasn’t the way to show God’s love. “The cowhands are off today, so it’s up to us to hitch the team to the wagon and saddle the horses.”
“Brilliant.” His tone suggested something entirely different.
“Capital.” Percy picked up his pace. “It’s been a while since I saddled a horse. I relish the challenge.”
In spite of one reluctant student and another entirely too enthusiastic helper, Rosamond managed the affair without a catastrophe. Soon she was driving the wagon up the lane, while the men rode along beside her. She occasionally glanced at Garrick and noticed him gazing at the distant mountains or watching migrating geese flying above them. Judging from his placid facade, he seemed to be enjoying himself for the moment.
Despite their disappointment over Beryl leaving them, her sisters helped load the wagon. Even Garrick pitched in with heavier items, impressing Rosamond with his strength. With servants to do everything for him, how could he be so strong?
Soon they were traveling back to Four Stones. Beryl sat beside Rosamond on the driver’s bench, but she’d tied her mare to the wagon…a good sign. Her willingness to ride might be the first step toward restoring her courage.
Riding close to the wagon, Percy chatted with Beryl over the clatter of the wheels. A stranger looking on might assume they’d known each other all their lives. So far, Rosamond hadn’t heard a word of disagreement between them. They liked the same books, the same music, the same pastimes. What an agreeable marriage they could have. Too bad Garrick couldn’t hide his disapproval. Did he hold some power over his cousin to prevent this romance?
The valets returned to Four Stones in t
ime to help Garrick and Percy move the trunk and luggage to the bedroom. Consuela helped Beryl unpack, and Rita planned a hearty meal for everyone rather than taking the evening off. All four servants appeared to be energized by a jolly mood, and a hint of romance sparked between Rita and Roberts. Percy and Beryl still had eyes only for each other. Rosamond couldn’t help but long for a romance, too, but with so much work for her school and the hotel, she’d have no time for such an indulgence. Or so she tried to convince herself.
*
“That will do, Roberts.” In the mirror, Garrick admired his cravat, which his man had tied with expert precision. Yet for some reason, he felt irritated at being fussed over despite having been dressed by a valet since leaving the nursery.
“Very good, sir.” Roberts never revealed emotion while doing his job, although yesterday Garrick had seen him smile constantly as he talked with Rita in the kitchen.
When everyone left for church yesterday morning, he’d not been pleased to see the valets and the female servants going south while the Northam family traveled north. But, after all, it was the servants’ day off. He couldn’t insist that Roberts attend the same church.
“Your portfolio, sir.” Roberts handed the folder to Garrick.
“Thank you.” He unfastened the clasp and thumbed through the architectural drafts to refresh his memory. All was in order. “I won’t need you until after dinner. This afternoon I’m meeting the minister in town, so I’ll require something appropriate for the occasion.”
“Yes, sir.” Roberts coughed softly into his fist, as he did when he wished to speak.
“Yes?”
“Would it be permissible for me to assist Mrs. Northam in her garden this morning?”
Pleased by his valet’s thoughtfulness, Garrick nodded. “That’s fine.”
The smile that spread across Roberts’s face extinguished that pleasure. Rita would no doubt be working with them.
Garrick had no time to ponder the matter. He must meet Rosamond in Colonel Northam’s office in a few minutes. That thought instantly improved his disposition. Despite her coolness toward him, he’d missed her at breakfast. Or maybe he simply wanted to decipher that coolness and possibly overcome it. He wouldn’t succeed with the hotel unless he gained her favor.