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Gerald leaned on the cane, regretting his stubborn desire to stand for the entire ceremony. Two weeks out of bed, a man should be able to be on his feet for ten minutes. Or so he thought.
Abby’s smile brought a lump to his throat. She clutched her father’s arm, her freckles fading behind a rosy blush.
Herman Fischer’s eyes brimmed with tears as he bent down and kissed his daughter’s forehead. “Meine Prinzessin.”
She touched his cheek. “Always, Papa.”
Gerald ignored the tightness in his chest, probably nothing more than fingers of joy spreading through his body. His family had long anticipated this day. He scanned the room. His mother sat in a chair to the left, her silver hair pulled up in a tortoiseshell comb—Clara’s doing, most likely. She’d pulled little Davy onto her lap, where he sat with two fingers jammed into his mouth, his eyes wide. Tiny lines crinkled at the corners of Clara’s eyes. This past year had aged her, but the smile playing at her lips added a fresh vitality he hadn’t seen in years.
The parlor overflowed with visitors, even more crowding in the entryway, craning their necks to see. Hospital staff, women from the Red Cross and Ladies’ Aid, family from near and far—everywhere he looked, he spotted more familiar faces. Robert’s mother, his sister Elizabeth, and Miriam sat perched on folding chairs near the front window.
Robert’s back was turned toward Gerald as he took his bride’s hands, but the younger man’s shoulders rose and fell as if the wonder of the moment had swept away the year’s trials.
Gerald pushed down the jealousy coiling around his insides. God, You’re all I need. Don’t let me forget. He squeezed the cane’s handle, glad for its support. The ceremony hadn’t even begun, and his knees wobbled.
As Abby turned to face her groom, Gerald’s eyes met Ruby’s on the far side. Gerald blinked hard, unable to break his gaze. Ruby’s curls had been drawn back, as usual, but she’d left a few straggling around her ears, like the coiled tendrils of the grapevines in the backyard. He longed to gently tug on one and watch it spring back into place.
A tiny smile curved about her lips. She’d never asked him about the things he’d said to her that horrible day, even after appearing at his bedside with the lifesaving vials. She’d been kind and concerned, but distant.
When he’d announced his diagnosis to the family, she was the only one who didn’t respond with shock, though Robert insisted he’d never spoken a word of it. The family had pulled together, as always. This time around him. The idea tore at his spirit.
Ruby turned her attention to the ceremony, her eyes blinking back moisture.
Is she thinking of Charlie? Or of me? His heart ached with longing, but things could never be as they had before. He tore his gaze away, turning to face Patrick as the clergyman opened the Scriptures.
Sweat dampened Gerald’s collar. Speak fast, man. Or they’ll be picking me up off the floor before the lucky couple gets to kiss.
* * *
Ruby chewed on her cheek as she gazed at the beads of sweat on Gerald’s brow. She should have insisted on bringing the man a chair. There was no rule requiring the best man to stand. His pride would be his downfall.
She glanced at her dress. The aquamarine silk puckered where it drew snug over Ruby’s hips. She ran a quick hand along her side to smooth the glossy fabric. Mrs. Larkspur and Mrs. Fischer had been at it again—pies, cakes, cinnamon buns, cookies. How was a woman to resist such temptations? She risked a quick glance at Gerald. Or other temptations?
Abby, on the other hand, had barely eaten a bite in days. The poor girl complained of fluttering nerves, but Ruby sensed it was more in regard to the presence of Ruby and Robert’s mother than the wedding itself. Ruby ran a critical eye down the embroidered leaves on her friend’s gown. Was the third one crooked? She’d whispered a prayer as she embroidered each leaf. She prayed for God’s protection over Abby and Robert. She asked God to heal her heart and to turn her focus to serving Him. She begged Him to save Gerald’s life, even though they’d never be together. And she’d prayed God would show her His perfect plan.
Ruby pressed the bouquet to her midsection and tried to focus on Patrick’s words. The guests had laughed several times, thoroughly entertained by his banter. The sparkle in his green eyes danced as he spoke of Robert, Abby, and of the great God who’d brought them together in the midst of chaos.
Thank you, Lord, for bringing me here. And for my brother’s happiness. Robert’s eyes remained fixed on his beautiful bride. Even the presence of Abby’s surprise guests—Kum Yong and Miss Cameron—hadn’t cast a shadow over his enthusiasm for the day or his love for her.
Before she knew what was happening, the vows were complete, and Robert leaned forward to claim a kiss from his bride. He held her face in his hands and whispered something into her ear bringing a smile and a blush.
Ruby’s throat tightened. Had she looked as happy when she’d wed Charlie? She used the thumb of her lace glove to wipe an errant tear from the edge of her lashes.
The visitors clapped and cheered, rushing forward to congratulate the bride and groom before they had an opportunity to depart. Ruby retreated two quick steps to avoid the surging crowd.
She backed straight into Patrick, who put a hand on her arm to steady her. “Steady, Mrs. Marshall. No escaping so easily.”
She cast a quick glance toward Gerald to be certain he moved toward a seat before someone jostled into him by mistake. She turned back to Patrick. “It was kind of you to do this for Robert and Abby. Thank you.”
He smiled. “The joy was mine. I’ve performed quite a few earthquake weddings in the camp, you know, but this one ‘takes the cake,’ as they say.”
Ruby laughed. “And cake there will be. Mrs. Larkspur and Mrs. Fischer have been planning it for weeks.”
“Then I’m in the right place.” His smile flashed for a brief moment before his eyes narrowed and voice lowered. “Are you well, my dear? I observed you and the good doctor are not . . . as you were. If I might say so.”
The crowd moved in step with Robert and Abby as they edged toward the door. As the far end of the parlor cleared, Ruby managed to take a step back from Patrick without tromping on someone’s shoe. “Yes, be that as it may—”
He lifted a quick hand to stop her words. “I didn’t mean to imply anything. Only, I count you among my friends—both of you. It troubles me to see you in pain.”
Across the room, Gerald pushed to his feet with the help of the cane. He followed the crowd as they mingled in the hall and dining room.
Perhaps he’s going to his room. I wonder if he needs help. Ruby placed a hand on Patrick’s arm. “I appreciate your concern, Patrick. I think God had other plans for us.”
Patrick lifted a brow. “I’ve rarely heard you speak of the Almighty in such welcoming tones.”
“We’ve come to an understanding. Gerald helped me learn to trust God with my future.” She glanced over to where he stood at the far side of the room, conversing with a few guests. “Even when life seems unbearable.” Ruby turned her eyes back to Patrick. “I don’t think I’d seen much need for faith before coming here. I thought I could take care of everything by myself.”
The reverend smiled and clucked his tongue. “Sometimes He allows us to wander for a time, but eventually we reach the end of our own strength. We must learn to let Him take the reins.”
“Or the steering wheel.” Ruby watched as Gerald paused at the door, bracing a hand on the frame. She touched Patrick’s sleeve. “Would you excuse me?”
He touched fingers to his forehead as if tipping an invisible hat. “I’ll go find the cake of which you spoke so highly.”
Ruby hurried across the room to Gerald’s side. “Can I give you a hand?”
“Under normal circumstances, I’d be embarrassed to accept such an offer.”
She wove an arm under his. “How about you pretend to escort me? Then no one will suspect I’m offering assistance.”
“Cl
ever.” He took two steps from the doorframe and paused to catch his breath. “I can’t believe I’m done in already.”
“You’re barely out of bed. Robert should have pushed the wedding back a month or two.”
Gerald frowned. “I wouldn’t allow it. Today is about Robert and Abby. It’s been a relief to have a full day where no one’s concerned with me.” He started toward the kitchen. “Let’s take the rear stairs. I don’t want an audience for my humiliation.”
Ruby laughed. “You never have been one for the spotlight. Neither you, nor Abby.”
“Must be a family curse.”
She squeezed his arm. “Or a family strength.”
Abby’s surprised squeal drew their attention toward the front door. Robert scooped her up in his arms and carried her across the threshold, much to the delight of those watching.
Ruby sighed. “My brother, on the other hand, doesn’t seem to mind the attention. Doesn’t he know you’re supposed to carry the bride in over the threshold?”
“Does it matter?”
“I suppose not. It’s not like they have a home of their own yet.”
Gerald sighed, shuffling on toward the kitchen. “There’s no hurry. My home is theirs, as long as they’d like to stay.”
“Do you ever long to have your house to yourself again?”
He shook his head. “Never. My dream was always to fill this house with family. Of course,” his voice cracked, “I thought it would be my own.” Gerald’s hold on her arm faltered.
Ruby repositioned her grip, adding a little extra strength underneath his elbow. “Maybe it will. Someday.”
“I believe that ship has sailed.”
She swallowed down the lump in her throat and stepped into the kitchen, giving Gerald a tug to keep him moving. “Want to sit for a moment?”
Patrick leaned against the kitchen counter. “May I be of assistance?” He raised his brows. “Or should I give you two some privacy?”
Gerald grunted. “No need for privacy, Reverend. If you wouldn’t mind offering a strong arm, perhaps you can spare Ruby the effort of hauling me up the stairs. She seems to think I need to rest.”
“I’d say it’s always wise to listen to a lady. A rest it is. My arm is at your service, Doctor. Unless you’d rather I hoist you over my shoulder like a sack of potatoes?” The man chuckled.
Gerald’s muscles tightened in Ruby’s hand. “An arm will be sufficient. Thank you, anyway.”
Ruby moved to follow, but Gerald pressed her back. “I think I can make do with Patrick’s help, Ruby. Go join the others. You should be wishing the happy couple good-bye, not dragging this broken body around.” He leaned on the cane.
“They’re only sneaking away for one night. Hardly a long trip. But I will leave you two to tackle the ascent.” She patted Gerald’s hand. “Get some rest. I’ll save you a piece of cake.”
Ruby bit her lip as the pair disappeared up the narrow stairway, their arms around each other’s shoulders. One would think they were old school chums—not one-time rivals. She sighed. Probably best she didn’t return to the man’s room just now, anyway. His sad words about family had triggered a similar longing in her heart. Two lonely people would not be good company for each other after such a blessed event. She closed her eyes for a moment, drawing on a host of pleasant memories to give her strength for the rest of the afternoon and evening. No more weddings after today. At least this much was certain.
* * *
Gerald sagged onto the mattress, the ache in his chest radiating through his shoulder. He clamped an arm against his ribs until the pain eased. His heart had been much improved since the additional injection of antitoxin and the occasional dose of digitalis, but every once in a while he still received twinges as if in reminder of what he’d lost.
Patrick gestured to the chair parked near the foot of the bed. “May I? Or do you need to sleep?”
“Please do.” Gerald loosened his tie and collar. “Do you mind if I take this off?”
“No, sir. Hate those celluloid things, myself.” Patrick dropped onto the seat, leaning back with a sigh. “Wonderful day. Your family must be bursting with joy.”
“After this past year, I think we’ve earned some high spirits.” Gerald yanked the collar free and set it on the bedside table. He’d put it away later. He kicked his feet up onto the mattress and leaned back on the mound of pillows the womenfolk had arranged for him. Every day he seemed to find one more. Soon there’d be no space for him on the bed. “I discouraged the relationship back when Robert and Abby first met. My friend courting my cousin? She was also sister to his patient. There were so many barriers to them ever being together.”
Patrick propped a heel up on the bed frame. “Seems God had other plans.”
Gerald pulled off his shoes. “He does sometimes, I’m learning.”
“Are you speaking of them or of you and Ruby?”
Gerald cleared his throat, eyeing the clergyman. Not a discussion he wanted to have with someone who had declared his intentions toward Ruby months ago. “Perhaps both.”
The man leaned forward, supporting his chin with a hand. “She tells me you led her to God’s fold.”
“She said that?”
“Something akin to it. Perhaps you missed your calling.”
Gerald exhaled slowly. “I’m glad to hear she’s choosing to trust Him. I was afraid with everything happening—”
“You mean with you pushing her away because of your illness?”
A familiar ache settled in Gerald’s chest. “Not any of your business, is it?”
Patrick chuckled, cocking his head. “Of course not. But it leaves me in prime position to pick up the pieces.”
Gerald sat forward, “Now, see here—”
“I’m jesting, doctor.” He lifted both hands, palms outstretched. “The woman made her choice plain. She’s not interested in me. I pale in comparison to the heroic doctor.”
Gerald ran a hand through his hair, leaning back. A chill washed over him. Wouldn’t he wish her all the happiness in the world?
“So, your fervor for the woman hasn’t waned.” Patrick’s mouth lifted into a smile. “Why are you refusing her love?”
The sound of an automobile horn blasted out front, people cheering in response. One happy couple, heading out to face the world together. A sick feeling sank into the pit of Gerald’s stomach. Rice flew, but never for him. “God doesn’t intend for me to have such a life.”
Patrick tapped two fingers against his chin. “You claim to know God’s will?”
“The woman of my dreams stepped into my life—into my arms. Now I’m losing one of those arms to cancer. I might die. I can’t ask Ruby to share an uncertain future.”
“She already buried one husband.”
“Exactly.” Gerald pressed back against the wall of cushions as the man fell silent.
Patrick stood and paced to the window. “I can see her down there, waving at the bride and groom. She looks content.” He turned and faced Gerald. “She shouldn’t have married Charlie Marshall. After all, he was going to die and leave her childless and alone.”
“They didn’t know what the future held.”
Patrick folded both arms across his chest. “Robert tells me, after the—the surgery, you have a good chance at living a normal life.”
“I’ll have a chance. And only one arm.”
“One strong arm to hold her. It’s better than she has now.”
Gerald lowered his gaze.
Patrick held out his hands, wiggling his fingers. “Of course, I have two arms. Perhaps she’d rather take her chances on a bloke like me. I’ve got two hands to hold and a long life ahead of me.” He cleared his throat. “Unless I fall under a streetcar. Or take a bullet in a camp brawl. Or contract the plague.” Patrick walked to the doorway. “’Course, she doesn’t love me. But what’s love worth, anyway?” He waved both hands before walking out of the room.
Gerald leaned his head back, staring at the ceili
ng as Patrick’s footsteps clattered down the stairs. She could do worse than Patrick.
“’Course, she doesn’t love me.”
Would she love again? What kind of man would she choose? Gerald closed his eyes. A two-armed one, most likely.
* * *
Ruby leaned against the fence and stared down the street, the guests’ mingling conversations humming in her ears. A long afternoon of feasting lay ahead, but a wave of weariness descended on her. Robert and Abby had been wise to escape while they could.
She turned and gazed up at Gerald’s house, her eyes settling on his bedroom window. I hope he’s resting. The memory of his face as he’d watched the wedding tickled at her thoughts. Her stomach quivered. If only.
Miriam came up beside Ruby, lacing a wrist through her arm and resting her chin on Ruby’s arm as if she too stared upward.
Ruby squeezed her hand. “How did you know where I was?”
“I could hear you sighing from across the lawn.”
“I wasn’t sighing.”
Miriam’s mouth lifted into a faint smile. “Yes, you were. Like a girl who has lost her true love. I’m quite accustomed to hearing you sigh.”
Ruby’s shoulders drooped. “You always see right through me.”
“And you’re going to let him get away?”
“I can’t force him to love me.” Ruby picked at the lace on her sleeve.
Miriam patted her hand. “He loves you. I hear it in his voice. The question is—can you still love him, knowing his time might be short? It’s a lot to ask of anyone. Even more so for you, after what you’ve endured.”
The soft afternoon breeze fluttered the loose curls around Ruby’s face. “I’ve placed my trust in God. I know His way is best, and I won’t turn away now, no matter how much it frightens me. Gerald’s illness doesn’t change my love for him. But if he’s chosen to walk this path alone, what more can I do?”
Miriam cocked her head and touched Ruby’s cheek with her fingertips. “Have you asked God?”
“I’ve asked God to show me His will.”
“Just because you’re asking God to take control of your life doesn’t mean He doesn’t want you to ask for things you desire.”
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