Cassandra (Bride Brigade Book 3)

by Caroline Clemmons

  Cassandra unfastened her bodice so she could loosen her stays. “How can you say that? You adore him and his son. Besides, you’ll make a perfect minister’s wife. Look how much good you do in the town already.”

  “I mean about ruining his reputation. People may object to a minister marrying a fallen woman.”

  “Who better? And you’re hardly a fallen woman. Being the victim of a callous, lecherous man is hardly your fault.”

  “You know people won’t see my situation that way. They always blame the woman, as if she became pregnant by herself. If they react like my father did, Grady might have to move to another church and he loves being in Tarnation.”

  “Don’t borrow trouble. Does Lydia know?”

  “She’s hosting a reception. I’m so grateful to her and to you. You’re a true friend. I hope when you marry, you’ll live near so we can visit.”

  Cassandra fought tears and sat in the chair.

  Angeline rose and came to her. “What have I said? What’s happened?”

  Cassandra explained about the evening. “I hated every minute of the dinner, especially when he forced a kiss on me.”

  “Forced a kiss? Oh, I’m so sorry.”

  Cassandra smiled. “At least I can answer the question about his mustache. It’s soft, but the rest of him is greedy and hard.”

  Chapter Eleven

  The next morning, Cassandra spoke to Lydia in her office. She related the events of the previous evening. “I hated spending time with those people, although I suppose they were nice enough. I felt guilty, as if I were a fraud for being there. Worse, I realized Bart didn’t need a hostess at all. He only wanted me there to show off for his guests.”

  Lydia met her gaze with sympathy in her eyes. “But, now you know and won’t have to wonder what you would have felt. Although I admit I was against your going, I believe accepting his offer benefitted you in making a decision about who to marry.”

  Cassandra pulled a handkerchief from her cuff to dab at her eyes. “But, that’s just it, Lydia. Now I have no one to marry. I want Sam but he’s so angry with me he doesn’t want me any longer.”

  “He may have cooled down and reconsidered by now. He’s had two days to think things over. Why don’t you go see him? He’s at the hotel.”

  Mind made up, she stood. “All right, that’s what I’ll do. I’ll go see him now and propose to him. Thank you, Lydia. I’ll feel better for at least trying.”

  She marched up to her room and changed dresses. She knew he liked her in blue. After refreshing her hair style, she grabbed her purse and set out for town.

  Blue skies overhead and a gentle breeze encouraged her. Surely such a pleasant day would bring good things. As she approached the hotel, she saw Sam come out of the mercantile.

  She hurried to catch up with him. He stopped and stared at her, his face a mask that almost discouraged her from speaking. No, she had to try.

  She linked her arm with his. “Sam, I’m sorry for our falling out. I hope you’re not still angry.”

  “Why wouldn’t I be? The situation hasn’t changed. You lied to me.”

  “Surely you know I only omitted a few facts, the same as you did when you didn’t tell me you were acquainted with Jeff Heathington.”

  “I don’t see things that way. Without trust, there’s no relationship.” He removed her arm from around his.

  “Sam, I’ve come to ask you to marry me. I want us to be together forever.”

  He stared at her. “Didn’t I make myself clear? I won’t be made a fool of again.” He turned and stomped off.

  Heart breaking, she went into the mercantile and straight to the back room.

  Josephine followed her. “What on earth is wrong, Cassandra? What’s happened?”

  Cassandra explained everything that had happened. “I’ve made a mess of my life. Now I’ll never be happy.”

  Josephine clasped both Cassandra’s hands in hers. “Even though things look bleak now, don’t give up. I’m sure you can work out your differences.”

  Shaking her head, Cassandra said, “I don’t think so. He made himself quite clear. He doesn’t trust me and doesn’t intend to marry me. I’m afraid I’ll break into tears at Angeline’s wedding tomorrow.”

  “Everyone cries at wedding and no one will think anything about you crying if you do. Plus, I know Sam’s crazy about you. Give yourself and him a little time.”

  Cassandra sniffed. “I’ll try. Can you tell I’ve been crying?”

  “Well, not much. Keep your bonnet brim down a little more.” Josephine adjusted the hat. “Now, no one will notice.”

  “Thank you, Josephine. I won’t take up more of your time. I know Saturdays are your busiest day.” She stood and parted the curtain to enter the store’s front.

  Josephine walked with her then gave her a hug. “I always have time for friends.”

  Michael handed her a letter. “Mail for you, Cassandra.”

  She took the envelope and saw her brother’s writing. “Thank you.”

  Soothed by her friend, Cassandra strolled back to Lydia’s. Instead of going to her room, she wandered into the garden to read her mail. Beneath a desert willow, she sat on a bench and opened the envelope.

  Dear Sister,

  I’m now at Mrs. Long’s. Don’t worry, nothing bad has happened. If I didn’t leave that place, though, I would have assaulted Jeff Heathington and beat him until someone pulled me off him. He took every opportunity to bait me. As well, the other stable boy picked up the habit, too, when we’d been friends all this time. I couldn’t risk losing my temper and going to jail.

  I’ve found several little jobs and can contribute to Mrs. Long’s household. I’ve also made needed repairs on her house. She is still spry and able to cook and clean. She insists she feels more secure with me here, but I think she’s just being kind. Write soon.

  Your loving brother,

  Trenton

  Poor Trenton had suffered because of her. She’d had no choice, though. Never would she have let that monster have his way with her. She would be mistress to no man.

  She sat praying about her future and Trenton’s. Deep in prayer, she didn’t notice the time. When she looked up, she realized she’d been here at least an hour. Had her prayers been heard?

  As if on the breeze, tranquility surrounded her. Butterflies fluttered in and out of the colorful flowers. Bees buzzed in the chamomile nearby. Out of sight a bird warbled a cheerful song. The world around her offered promise.

  On the other side of the garden wall, the green mountains climbed upward, wild and free. The contrast between the rough terrain and the serene formal garden might have caused some to question the harmony. For her, the sight brought serenity.

  Recalling the preparations for Angeline’s reception, Cassandra rose to go inside. At least she had acquired calm to ease her aching heart.

  ***

  Samuel cursed himself as he found a seat at the café. Why had he treated Cassie the way he had? She was right that he had omitted information from her. Still, she hadn’t explained her actions nor answered Jeff’s accusations. She’d deceived him.

  His bad mood persisted while he was eating dinner. The banker came in and took a seat at his table. Tucker was the last person he wanted to see today.

  He barely glanced at the man. “This is my table right now and I didn’t invite you to share.” Sam continued eating, though now his appetite was decreased.

  Bart waved a hand at Martha. “I’ll have what he’s having.”

  Sam only glanced at the banker. “There are other tables, Tucker. Move to one.”

  “I was sure you’d be interested in the latest on Cassandra Bradford. She acted as hostess at an important dinner last night. Fit right in, she did. Looks appropriate in my home.”

  “That how you choose a woman, by how ‘appropriate’ she looks in your home?”

  “I chose Cassandra before she’d been near my house. Any day now I expect to be announcing the date of our wedding.
Yes, sir, I’m looking forward to our ceremony, especially the wedding night.”

  Sam had to grab the edge of the table to keep from planting his fist in Tucker’s face. The man was lying. Why would Cassie propose to him if she was going to marry Tucker? Still, he wasn’t about to share that information with the oily banker.

  Martha set a plate in front of Tucker. “Sam, you ready for your dessert? Apple turnovers today.”

  “No, thanks. I’ve lost my appetite.” He laid money on the table and left.

  Recalling how he’d wanted to punch Tucker’s face, he prided himself on resisting. But why did the man’s taunts about Cassie rile him so? Hadn’t he learned anything from Edith? But, he hadn’t loved Edith even though she was fun at first.

  Nope. After having Edith walk out on him, he’d vowed never to let a woman make a fool of him again. So, why had he let himself fall in love with Cassie? He had to admit he did love her, even after learning she’d lied to him.

  Trust was an important part of a successful marriage and that’s what he wanted. He’d had the other kind and it was hell on earth. He wouldn’t settle for anything less than perfect.

  He was sorry he’d promised the preacher he’d be at his wedding tomorrow. Lydia had made him commit to attending the reception. Why was he set on making himself miserable?

  ***

  Cassandra helped Angeline with her hair before the wedding.

  Her friend smoothed a hand over her rounded stomach. “I wish I’d had a fine new dress to wear for Grady.”

  “You should have let me re-cut my turquoise dress for you. The color would look good on you.”

  “Turquoise looks wonderful on you and I’m glad you’re wearing it for the ceremony. Sam’s eyes will bug out when he sees you looking so beautiful.”

  Sadly, Cassandra shook her head. “No, he’s finished with me. He wouldn’t even look at me in church this morning. I can’t stand his rejection again. As it is, he might as well have ripped out my heart.”

  “I’m sorry you’re hurting but I’m optimistic about the outcome. Look at me. If a fine man like Grady will marry me, you’re a cinch to get married.”

  “I won’t marry unless it’s for love.” She sank onto the mattress. “Who am I fooling? No one but myself, that’s who. I have to marry in order to bring Trenton here. There’re no jobs here for me, no way can I earn enough money for Trenton and me to live without a husband.”

  “You’re not considering Bart Tucker are you?”

  “The thought is revolting, but I don’t have any other suitors. Perhaps one of the other men would be amenable to marrying a woman with a young brother. Problem is, no one I’ve met attracts me like Sam does.”

  “Maybe today will be the day Sam changes his mind.”

  Cassandra knew that wasn’t true but she didn’t want to argue with her roommate. “We shouldn’t be talking about me. This is your wedding day. I’m so happy for you, Angeline. You look like the Angel that Matthew calls you.”

  “Thank you for agreeing to be my maid of honor. Your participation means a lot to me.”

  With one final twirl of a curl on Angeline’s hair, Cassandra turned and put the brush and comb in Angeline’s suitcase before snapping shut the lid. “All ready now.”

  Lydia rapped at the door before entering. “My you look lovely, both of you. Adam is here with the carriage. He’ll be up and carry your luggage. Shall we go?”

  Later at the back of the sanctuary, Cassandra stood in front of Angeline. The congregation stood as the music began and she and Angeline walked toward the front. She saw Sam standing by the aisle and she met his gaze as she passed him. She hoped he regretted his caustic words. If he did, he gave no sign.

  Standing at the front, facing the congregation during the ceremony, she couldn’t resist watching Sam. Bart was also there, looking smug and winking at her. Soon, she’d have to tell him she wasn’t interested in being his wife. But could she turn down the only offer she had?

  Her stomach roiled with worry. She thought she might pass out, and forced herself to focus on Angeline and Grady and little Matthew. They made a perfect family.

  Think happy thoughts. Think happy thoughts for them. Control yourself and think happy thoughts.

  She managed to survive the ceremony. Afterwards, she bolted after the bride and groom. Bart tried to stop her and she said, “Have to help with the reception.”

  Picking up her skirts, she practically ran down the street. She saw the happy couple in the buggy ahead. Adam and Lydia pulled alongside her.

  Adam called, “You’re making good time, but don’t you want to ride with us?”

  Gasping for breath, she climbed onto the seat beside Lydia. “Thank you. I wanted to get to the house before the crowd. I imagine Mrs. Murphy has things under control, but she might need last minute help.”

  Lydia squeezed her hand. “First, you’d better repair you hair. Your pins seem to have fallen out.”

  She touched her head. “Oh, dear. I must look like a hoyden. No matter, I can quickly restore the arrangement.”

  “You’re quite generous styling hair for others.” Lydia smiled at her.

  “Oh, I don’t mind sharing what I’ve picked up. I know how I like my own done, so I can translate that to others.”

  They reached Lydia’s home. She climbed down before Adam could help her and raced inside and up the stairs. In her room, she shook out her container of hairpins and thrust one at a time into her hair until the collapsed hairdo was restored. Dabbing on a bit of perfume to combat the effect of running, she fought to still her breathing.

  Strange she could feel her heart beating when she knew it was broken. She closed her eyes and told herself to perk up. Today was Angeline’s and she wanted everything to be perfect for her deserving friend.

  Inside the ballroom, she made the rounds greeting people while avoiding Sam and Bart. She slipped down to the kitchen to help carry refreshments to the buffet table. Gathering used dishes and cups as quickly as they were set aside, she carried them to the kitchen.

  Mrs. Murphy stood with hands on her hips. “You’re the maid of honor. You get up there and do your duty.”

  Chastised, she forced herself to stand near Angeline, a smile plastered on her face.

  Sam sauntered over. “May I speak to privately?”

  Hope bubbled up from her chest. Had he reconsidered? Was he going to propose?

  Trying to conceal any trace of her feelings, she laid her fingers on his arm. He escorted her to the balcony where they’d spoken what seemed like years ago. He turned her so she faced the view and he faced her.

  His face was solemn. “You look especially nice today.”

  “Sam, don’t play games. Why did you ask me out here? Have you reconsidered?”

  He placed his hands on her upper arms. “Tucker told me you’re going to marry him.”

  Bart told him they were to be married? Anger fueled her reply. “That’s no concern of yours, Sam, unless you want to marry me. Do you?”

  He pulled her into his arms and kissed her. She melted against him and wound her arms around his neck. Opening her mouth to him, she probed with her tongue as he did with his.

  When she was kissed senseless, he broke the embrace. “Do Tucker’s kisses affect you like mine?”

  Horrified, she shoved at his chest. “You didn’t mean the promise of that kiss, did you? How dare you dally with my emotions when you know I love you. You, sir, are a cad.”

  She shoved past him and returned to the reception. Fighting to glide calmly across the room, she went down the hall. Inside her bedroom, she leaned against the closed door. She’d made her way to her sanctuary without breaking down in front of everyone.

  How could Sam be so cruel and calculating? She knew he had feelings for her but his stubborn pride was keeping them apart. After moving the chair by the window, she sat staring out at the garden and the green hills beyond.

  If a man doesn’t want you, there’s nothing you can do. Accept that S
am isn’t going to marry you. She didn’t know why he’d even remained in town so long. His boss might be generous, but if Sam didn’t get to work soon, he’d lose his job.

  Perhaps that would be best. If he moved on to work on a ranch miles from Tarnation, then she wouldn’t have to see him again. She wouldn’t be reminded of his kisses and how much she loved him every time she saw him.

  Stop fooling yourself. You don’t have to see Sam to remember you love him. He’s never out of your mind.

  She heard cheers and realized Angeline and Grady were leaving. Still she sat there unable to face Sam or Bart again.

  With a sigh, she rose and changed into a day dress. She hung the turquoise in the armoire. With Angeline’s few things gone, there was room for several more of her gowns.

  Cassandra packed the burgundy faille into the trunk. That ensemble carried bad memories of being pawed by Bart. She doubted she’d be able to wear it again.

  Ophelia knocked on the door. “Time for supper. Are you coming down?”

  “Yes, I was just rearranging my clothes now that I have the room to myself.”

  The gentle girl smiled. “I did that too even though I don’t have many things.”

  Cassandra opened the trunk and thrust the burgundy dress at her. “Please take this. I didn’t enjoy wearing it and will never do so again.”

  Ophelia clutched the dress to her chest. “I don’t know what to say, Cassandra.”

  “And here are the matching shoes.” She reached into the trunk’s top shelf. “Take the necklace and earrings that match the dress. You’ll look lovely wearing that outfit. If it’s too large, I’ll help you alter it.”

  “I can sew. I’ve never had a dress of this quality or one so pretty. You looked lovely wearing it Friday.” Ophelia stepped closer and peered into Cassandra’s face. “Will seeing me in this bother you?”

  She patted her friend’s shoulder. “You’re so empathetic. No, seeing you in the dress will make me happy. I have more clothes than I can wear and most of them are unsuitable for our frontier life.”

  Ophelia’s eyes sparkled with excitement. “Then I thank you and will wear it at the first opportunity. I’ll put it in my room and then be down for supper.”