Ophelia (Bride Brigade Book 4)

by Caroline Clemmons

  He accepted the paper he’d already read twice. “Thank you, Miss Lynch.” Opening the Gazette, he scanned the pages again.

  True to her word, Ophelia was prompt. She’d changed into the dress she’d worn at the dance and the opera house. He suspected that was her only good garment and wished he could take her shopping to fill her closet.

  Instead, he rose and offered his arm. “You look lovely. Shall we go?”

  They descended the front steps. “I can’t get over how blue the sky is in Texas. This breeze is welcome on a warm day.”

  “You’ve seen all the buildings on our Main Street, so let’s move over a block.”

  “Will you tell me who lives in each house we pass? Like that trim, neat place there?”

  “Certainly. That belongs to the Hills, next to them are the Lyons—he’s the barber and owns the bath house. The large one ahead belongs to Bart Tucker, the banker.”

  “My goodness, it’s imposing. He’s been courting Cassandra Bradford.”

  “Successfully?” He hated to see Tucker marry one of the young women currently at Lydia’s.

  “I’m not sure. Sam Drummond is also courting her. She can’t decide.”

  By this time they’d crossed to another block. “I suggest she take Drummond. Enough about them.”

  She giggled. “All right. Who lives here in this pretty house?” She stopped near the gate.

  “This one is mine. Nothing as grand as Tucker’s or Lydia’s, but this suits me.”

  He tried to see the house through her eyes. The wrap-around porch was shaded by large trees that had been here when he chose the site. Although most of the town was barren, this part had a grove of large oak, cottonwood, pecan, and elm trees and he saved as many as possible when building his home. White wood trimmed with dark green shutters, he believed the house fit into the setting. A wrought iron fence surrounded the lot except for the drive to the carriage house.

  Ophelia studied the house. “Actually, I prefer your place to Mr. Tucker’s. This has the look of a happy home.” She turned to meet his gaze. “I can see you living here with children playing around you.”

  He could too, especially if the right woman agreed to marry him. Mrs. Horowitz chose that moment to step out on her front porch next door with her broom. “Ophelia, would you wait here a moment?”

  He jogged up to Mrs. Horowitz. “May I ask a favor? I want to show Miss Shipp my home but I don’t want to sully her reputation. If you’d accompany us, we’d be properly chaperoned.”

  She chuckled and leaned the broom against her house. “And I’d get to see inside your house as I’ve wanted to do since you moved in.”

  He helped her down the steps. “Surely you know you and your husband are always welcome.” When they reached Ophelia, he made introductions. “Mrs. Horowitz is going to be our chaperone so I can show you inside. My housekeeper is there, but Mrs. Horowitz is unbiased and highly respected and will protect your good name.”

  Mrs. Horowitz beamed at him. “What a kind thing to say, Mr. Kendrick.”

  They went into his home and stood in the foyer.

  His housekeeper, Mrs. Mendoza, hurried toward him. “Señor Kendrick, may I serve you and your guests?”

  “I hadn’t intended to bother you, Mrs. Mendoza, but a cup of tea would be nice. First, I’m giving the ladies a tour of the place.”

  From the wide foyer, he gestured to the parlor he’d decorated with care. Mahogany furniture contrasted to the pale green walls. A large Oriental rug covered the center. Deep green draperies at the windows were pulled back to display lace curtains. The couch was covered in green velvet and two wing back chairs in green paisley fabric.

  Ophelia stood behind a chair with her hands on the winged back. “Everything about this room is pleasing and relaxing. How nice it must be entertaining your guests here.”

  He didn’t confess she and his neighbor were his first guests. She’d think him crazy not to take advantage of his home. He supposed he was, but he’d wanted the right woman by his side. Now that he’d found Ophelia, he hoped she would be that partner.

  Mrs. Horowitz turned slowly. “Your home appears large. You must rattle around all on your own.”

  The two women peeked into the dining room where he’d placed a table that easily seated twelve and could be extended for four more.

  Ophelia gazed at the ceiling and then back toward the parlor. “I love the chandelier here and in the parlor. So beautiful and delicate. When lighted, the effect must be dazzling.”

  “I had them made from my sketch. As I mentioned, I’d thought about this house and just how I wanted everything inside.”

  She offered a brilliant smile. “You must be very talented to direct everything here.”

  That she approved of his home meant more to him than it should. Her compliment went straight to his heart and warmth enveloped him. He pictured her surrounded by dinner guests with him at the table’s head.

  He snapped out of his reverie. “Mrs. Mendoza has a little apartment off the kitchen, but we won’t intrude there.”

  They entered the large kitchen. The breakfast table was where he ate on the occasions he dined at home. Mrs. Mendoza was busy so they skirted her and hurried out of the cooking area to his favorite room at the home’s rear.

  “This is a sort of back parlor where I can relax and not worry about having guests arrive while I’ve spread out the newspaper.”

  The room featured burgundies and grays with two leather armchairs and a large sofa covered in brown leather. Wide windows looked out on a well-groomed yard.

  Ophelia walked to admire the view. “A touch of flowers would improve the view, but everything else was perfect.”

  “I hadn’t thought of flowers, but I agree bright blooms would be pleasing. I admire those of Mrs. Horowitz’s garden.”

  “If you wish, I will give you seeds and cuttings.” Mrs. Horowitz appeared to take in the room’s every detail. “You’ve decorated well, Mr. Kendrick.”

  He virtually beamed at the compliment. “Thank you. Shall we go upstairs?”

  The women preceded him up the staircase.

  Ophelia trailed her fingers along the carved oak banister. “This is nice, Elias. A landing is good too. If a child falls, he won’t take such a tumble.”

  He wanted the child to belong to her and him. “There are four bedrooms along here. The master is here with a sitting area.”

  Ophelia peeked in as if intruding.

  Mrs. Horowitz chuckled and tugged Ophelia inside the room. “We might as well get a good look while we have the chance.”

  Ophelia turned back to smile at him. “Such a lovely room, neither masculine nor feminine so the decor will work for you when you’ve wed.”

  He wanted to tell her he’d pictured her in this room, in his bed, but knew that would frighten her. Instead, he returned her smile and kept quiet. With his mouth closed he couldn’t put his foot inside.

  After seeing each of the bedrooms, he pointed to a narrow staircase. “The attic is floored in and provision made for a fireplace opening if I ever need more rooms.”

  Mrs. Horowitz chuckled. “Always good in case of many children or if your family or in-laws move in.”

  Her comment sent spikes of regret stabbing him. “Unfortunately, I have no family left. I hope to start a family here in the future.” They started down toward the parlor.

  “Good luck to you and whoever you marry.” Mrs. Horowitz sent Ophelia a pointed glance.

  Ophelia blushed prettily. “You have a large house for a bachelor.”

  “Right now, I’m not here much. I intend that to change. Please have a seat, Ladies.”

  Ophelia sat on the couch and smiled and her lovely blue eyes sparkled. “All work and no play….”

  He returned her grin as he joined her on the couch. “Right. Building and making the saloon successful and then establishing the opera house has taken most of every day. I have a few other projects, but they’re going well.”

  M
rs. Horowitz had chosen his large wingback chair. “You’ve accomplished a lot for a man your age. Really for any age.”

  “I agree.” Ophelia asked, “Do you at least have a pet?”

  “A cat. I know, men are supposed to want a dog, but she adopted me.”

  “Ja, I’ve seen this cat in the window. Lovely black and white beauty looking out as if she owns the place.”

  “That’s her. Ah, here she comes.”

  The animal twined around his legs and meowed. “Sometimes I’d swear she spoke actual words.”

  Ophelia petted her. “Her fur’s like velvet. What’s her name?”

  “Silkie. I keep her indoors as I’d rather not have a litter of kittens around or have her attacked by a stray animal. She has a sand box in the mud room.”

  She leapt into Ophelia’s lap and curled up as if she did so every day. Ophelia rewarded her with head rubs. “What a lovely girl you are, Silkie.”

  Mrs. Mendoza came in carrying a tray. He stood to help but she shook her head. “I can manage, Señor Kendrick. There are cookies and slices of cake for a proper tea.”

  “Thank you, Mrs. Mendoza. Mrs. Horowitz, would you pour?”

  A wide smile spread across his neighbor’s face. “Why, I’d be delighted.”

  She poured tea into the cups he’d never before used. That he had the delicate china pleased him. The silver cutlery and china plates were a part of his dream that had come true. From gutter child to owner of a real home where he could entertain neighbors and the woman he wanted to marry.

  These ladies had complimented him on his accomplishments but neither had any idea how far he’d come. Would Ophelia be horrified if she knew his mother was a whore and he had been thrown out on the street when he was eight? The thought of such callous treatment revolted him.

  He couldn’t let himself dwell on his past. Enjoying the present was more important, especially with Ophelia sitting beside him in his home.

  ***

  Ophelia joined the other women as they walked to church in twos and threes. She nudged Josephine. “What a parade we must appear. I’m surprised people don’t gawk.”

  “I think they’re happy we’re here and don’t want to offend us. People have been very nice to me at the mercantile.” Josephine giggled. “And we’ve had a lot more sales from men who come in to flirt with me.”

  “That’s nice for Mr. Buchanan’s business. I’m sure that’s not the only reason he’s glad you’re helping him.” Ophelia slanted a mischievous grin at her friend.

  Josephine sent her a stern glare. “You simply must stop matchmaking. I like working and am saving my salary to set myself up in my own business.”

  She nudged her friend. “So you say. I’m betting you marry your boss within two months.”

  “Ophelia! I am surprised at you.” Josephine snapped, “I’ll take that bet.”

  Ophelia’s only answer was a giggle. What was that saying about protesting too much? She truly believed Jo and Michael Buchanan were a fine match and hoped Jo came to her senses soon. Michael was a handsome man admired by several of the young women.

  They arrived at church and filed into a pew. With so many wide skirts, only six could fit on a pew, so Ophelia and Josephine sat in the one behind Lydia. No sooner had they sat down than Elias slipped in to sit beside Ophelia.

  He gave only a slight nod but his warm brown eyes twinkled. “Good morning.”

  “G-Good morning.” Heat from a blush crept across Ophelia’s face and down to her neck. Sitting together in church was a declaration of intentions. Did he realize that? Of course he must.

  Josephine nudged her. “You and your beau are receiving quite a bit of attention.”

  That’s when she noticed several people stared openly. Suddenly the sanctuary became stuffy and the heat oppressive. Ophelia reached for one of the paper fans furnished by Callahan’s Furniture Store and Mortuary. She fanned her face and fought to regain her composure.

  Beside her, Elias said nothing. He appeared as calm and self-possessed as ever. Did nothing affect his equanimity?

  She caught Lydia’s surprise when her hostess glanced over her shoulder. Ophelia waved her fan vigorously.

  Josephine nudged her. “You’re about to start a tornado with that fan. Slow down.”

  Dear heavens, she was making a spectacle of herself. Immediately, she dropped the fan to her lap.

  Elias reached over, took the fan, and returned it to the hymnal slot. He leaned near. “Don’t worry, gentle lady, there’s nothing wrong with me sitting beside you.”

  She was saved from replying when Reverend McIntyre stepped to the lectern. He asked everyone to bow for the opening prayer. Eyes closed, Ophelia forced herself to concentrate on the prayer—at least, she tried.

  Dear God, forgive me. The man beside me is too much in my thoughts today.

  She listened to the sermon in which the minister spoke of loving one’s neighbors and helping them. Ophelia admired the way this congregation responded to the pastor’s sermons. With only a couple of exceptions, Reverend McIntyre was well-respected.

  If only Brother John had preached this message, how different her life would have been. Maybe. Would Pa even have gone to a church where the minister preached love and forgiveness instead of an eye for an eye and the fires of Hell? She suspected Pa wouldn’t have.

  Stop thinking about your former life.

  After the service, Elias stuck by her side as they exited the sanctuary. Somehow, he maneuvered until Lydia and the others were ahead of them. “May I walk you home?”

  In spite of the stares directed their way, she smiled at him and placed her hand on his arm. “That would be nice.”

  They strolled slowly toward Lydia’s at the other end of the small town.

  “You appeared surprised to see me when I joined you and your friend. I hope I didn’t embarrass you.”

  Surprised? That word didn’t begin to describe her shock. “I was dismayed, but not unpleasantly so. I’m glad you have time to attend church.”

  He chuckled. “I attend twice, but usually sit near the back for the service we just heard. Grady, that’s Reverend McIntyre, comes at eight to have church at the saloon. There are people in town who aren’t comfortable at church and others who don’t think they’d be welcome. Grady ministers to them at the saloon.”

  She took time to digest the information. How kind of Elias and Reverend McIntyre to think of others. Still, she worried that there was a need for two services.

  “I’m sorry there are people who don’t feel welcome at the regular service. That’s not right. Everyone should be included.”

  Elias raised his eyebrows. “Even alcoholics, coloreds, and my women employees who serve drinks?”

  She was surprised again, not having known there were women in his saloon. “Of course. Christians are never perfect, just supposedly trying to live a good life. No one should ever be excluded. I’m sad that’s not true here.”

  He patted her hand. “It’s not true anywhere, Ophelia, but I’m glad you think it should be.”

  “My only other experience is in the little church I attended before I came here. No love was preached in any sermon I heard there—only retribution and punishment.”

  He grimaced. “Ah, fire and brimstone. Not an outlook I admire.”

  “I didn’t know there was any other until I came here. Thank heavens for Lydia. She saved me in more ways than I can say.”

  “Bringing you here was a great gesture on her part which will save me if you choose to honor me with your hand in marriage.”

  She stared at him, unable to believe he was proposing to her. Of all the girls who’d come with Lydia, she marveled that he favored her. Her heart exploded with joy then settled down with turmoil.

  He grew serious, as if he thought her hesitation meant she wasn’t happy with his declaration. “I’m sorry, Ophelia. I shouldn’t have blurted that out. Let’s pretend I didn’t speak yet and I’ll propose in a more flowery and flattering way on our n
ext outing.”

  “That will be pleasant, Elias. I’ll pretend to keep you waiting also.”

  Relief spread across his face. “I was afraid I’d offended you… or that you didn’t want to hear me speak of such things.”

  She held up her free hand. “Remember, I heard nothing. Shall we continue to Lydia’s?”

  “Slowly, please. I enjoy spending time with you. The sunshine is warm today, but there is a breeze to cool us.”

  She giggled. “Unlike the heat in church.”

  He smiled at her with mischief dancing in his eyes. “You did appear overly warm, so much that your face turned red. I feared I’d have to summon the doctor. He was only a couple of rows behind us.”

  “Everyone stared at us because you sat beside me. I’m not used to that much attention and admit being overwhelmed.”

  “Now everyone in town has seen us walking together, dining at the café, and now sitting side by side in church. I believed I’ve staked my claim, so to speak.”

  She didn’t like him making her out to be a thing instead of herself. “You make me sound like a plot of land.”

  He pulled her closer and their hips touched for a brief moment. “No, my dear, a precious jewel far above price. Perhaps you remember the description of a good woman from the Bible.”

  His comment humbled her. Did he really feel that way toward her? “You flatter me but I’m not all those things.”

  “You’re all the important ones. You’ll honor your husband and children and be the best wife and mother you can be. And I know you’ll succeed.”

  “Thank you, Elias. That’s my goal, to marry a good man and have his children.”

  His gaze was direct and serious. “I try to be a good man, Ophelia. If I shared my past, you’d be shocked. I’ll save that for another time.”

  She hoped her smile reassured him. “Everyone has unpleasant things in his or her past, Elias.”

  Her having stolen Pa’s cash would no doubt shock Elias. She knew the sight of her scarred back would repel him. She was careful not to wear a dress with a low back. Did a married man ever see his wife naked? Surely not.

  They’d reached Lydia’s and he held both her hands. “There’s a variety show scheduled at the opera house. Would you accompany me for Saturday’s performance?”