“That should be easy enough to contradict. As much as I’d rather Tien Gum not be subjected to more scrutiny, I’m certain she’d answer to a judge on such an assertion.”
“It might not be so simple.” Charles set his jaw. “When you retrieved her, you did so with no warrant, no police supervision. There’s some talk at the courthouse that your entire operation might be illegal.”
The color washed from Donaldina’s face. “We’ve conducted Mission work here since 1874.”
“And you have a strong relationship with the courts and the city government. I’m not overly concerned. But they could make life difficult for a time.”
Donaldina sat back against the chair with a sigh. “So, business as usual, then.”
He chuckled. “I suppose so.”
***
Elizabeth tucked her wrist around Charles’s arm for warmth. After an early supper at a new cafe, they’d taken the cable car to Golden Gate Park. She gazed up at the massive glass conservatory with a sigh.
“This is our third visit to the park this month.”
She squeezed his arm. “And we’ve discovered something new each trip. I think this is the prettiest.”
“You said as much about the Tea Garden and rowing at Stow Lake.” He chuckled.
Elizabeth cocked her head. “And it’s true. They’re all lovely. Who knew this kind of beauty could exist in a city capable of such tragedy?”
He laid a hand over her fingers, his eyes crinkling about the corners. “Perhaps something shaped by sorrow has that much more beauty to offer.”
She laid her head against his shoulder. Truth rang in Charles’s words. Had she experienced a day like this a few years back, the joy wouldn’t have been nearly so sweet. “I wish we could remain like this and never return to dark places and times.”
“I don’t believe you’d turn your back on your students. And I’ve my own calling to live up to.” He slid his arm behind her back.
“Stop thinking as a lawyer for a moment. You must have a poet’s heart in there somewhere.” She patted his shirtfront.
A wide smile spread across his face. “I had to memorize some Keats when I was in high school. ‘How beautiful, if sorrow had not made Sorrow more beautiful than Beauty’s self.’ Of course, I couldn’t say I understood it. I’ve always preferred people to say what they mean.”
Elizabeth gazed at his earnest face, memorizing each detail from the black rims on his irises all the way to the tiny cleft in his chin. She wouldn’t change a thing. Turning to survey the meticulous grounds, she sighed. “I suppose what I’d really like is to bring all the girls here and witness their reaction to this astounding place.”
“That would be a treat, wouldn’t it?” He tugged her closer. “But for the moment, I’m enjoying not sharing your attentions.” He leaned down and placed a kiss on her lips.
A shiver raced through Elizabeth. Too good. Too perfect. She drew a breath, pulling all the pleasure of this moment into her chest for safekeeping. She could fall into Charles’s caresses and forget anything she’d ever been or done. She braced his rough jaw in her palm, responding to his kiss with hunger.
Charles nuzzled her neck. “It’s difficult to see you at the Mission and not be able to touch you. Do this.”
Her breath caught as his lips touched her throat. “I know what you mean.”
A woman strolled by with a French poodle, her face pinched into a frown.
Elizabeth gently pushed Charles back, though every fiber in her being resisted. “We should be careful, even here. People are watching.”
“Let them.” He shot a glance over his shoulder as the lady flounced away. “I’ve found the most beautiful woman in the world, and I plan on kissing her every opportunity I can muster.”
Heat rushed to Elizabeth’s cheeks, even as delight curled around her. “Remember, Mr. Future Mayor, you have a reputation to protect. We don’t want people thinking you hang around with loose women.”
He chuckled and drew back. “Loose women? I hardly think you qualify for such a title. You wouldn’t even let me touch your hand for the longest time.”
A bitter taste rose in her mouth. “You don’t know everything about me.”
“I hope to, one day.” Charles ran a finger along her earlobe.
Elizabeth closed her eyes. Be careful what you wish for.
24
The dining room sparkled from days of scrubbing and polishing. Bunting and banners decorated the walls, the seats arranged in neat rows facing the improvised stage. Elizabeth took a deep breath in a vain attempt to slow her racing heart. If only she could hide in the basement until all the guests departed. Why had she agreed to perform?
A rumbling cut through the morning air. In the kitchen, girls shrieked.
Elizabeth jumped from the piano stool and hurried out to the main hall. “What was that?”
Students poured into the room from the kitchen and classrooms. Yoke Soo grabbed Elizabeth’s skirt. “Teacher? Was it the earthquake?”
Donaldina came out of her office. “Girls, girls. It’s only thunder. Now let’s get back to our preparations.” She clapped her hands together. “Off you go.”
The buzzing voices echoed through the hall and stairway as the children made their way to their rooms.
Donaldina laughed. “Everyone is jumpier than jackrabbits this morning.”
Elizabeth walked to the window and craned her neck to study the darkening sky. “What a day for a storm. Hopefully it’s not a sign of things to come.”
“Not you, too.” Donaldina shook her head. “Today will be a treat. The board is delighted. You’ll probably be inundated with requests to play for various other functions.”
“I’m not even comfortable playing today.” She grabbed handfuls of her skirt rather than be seen with clenched fists. “I came here to get away from concert life.”
Donaldina placed an arm around Elizabeth. “God has given you a gift, child. I don’t think He intends for you to run away from it.”
Elizabeth’s shoulders loosened. One performance. After that she could relax and get back to work.
“I hope your young man will be joining us.”
Heat rushed to her cheeks. “If you mean Charles, then yes. He will be here.”
Donaldina squeezed her arm. “He’s a nice fellow. I’m glad to see you so happy.”
A quiver ran through Elizabeth’s stomach. “I’m not certain I deserve to be so happy, but I am.”
“Remember, every good and perfect gift is from above.” Donaldina glanced around the dining hall. “The guests will be arriving soon. Will you check in the kitchen and see if Mrs. Lee has all the help she needs?”
“Certainly.” Elizabeth hurried through to the kitchen, pleased to find Mrs. Lee in her element—organizing the children like troops prepared for battle. After checking on a few other details, Elizabeth climbed the stairs to her room for a few moments of quiet.
Closing the door, she surveyed the tiny space. Over the past few months it had become home. Yoke Soo’s drawing sat propped up against her jewelry box. New curtains graced the narrow window. A rag rug softened the floor by her bed. Elizabeth sat on the mattress’s edge, marveling at everything she’d experienced in her time here. She’d volunteered in an attempt to make amends for her mistake, and instead she’d been blessed beyond all expectation. Perhaps God was pleased with her choices. Not only had she left Tobias, but she’d worked hard since coming to San Francisco. She’d added a third sewing class, all of whom were well on their way to becoming excellent seamstresses. She’d set Yoke Soo on the path to reading music. She’d helped with several rescues. And today, the girls were ready for the musicale because of her instruction and encouragement.
Donaldina was correct. The board should be pleased.
Elizabeth spent the next twenty minutes fixing her hair, teasing it into a perfect Gibson Girl knot. The bodice of her blue gown pinched under the arms. She’d grown accustomed to the simple attire of a schoolteacher�
��shirtwaists, walking skirts, vests, and tailored jackets. She held the small mirror up above her head, trying to get a good aspect on the dress. Ridiculous. Why did I love this so much? She pinned a lace panel across the neckline. It wouldn’t do to show too much skin.
Smoothing her hair one last time, Elizabeth managed to ignore her clammy palms. Heading downstairs, she greeted several of the students as they hurried about the house in their Sunday finery.
Tien Gum waved at Elizabeth, the brilliant jade green of her dress bringing out the sparkle in her dark eyes. She’d be singing a duet with one of the other young women, and Elizabeth couldn’t wait to hear the audience’s reaction.
Elizabeth peeked into the dining hall and scanned the decorations. Between the banners and the fresh flowers, the room looked ready to receive the president, not just a collection of supporters and donors. She couldn’t resist a smile. The new home gleamed.
“They’re coming!” Yoke Soo stood in the covered doorway under Kum Yong’s watchful eye. “People are coming!” Her red tunic reflected the joy and excitement in her face. Yoke Soo bowed to the newcomers—an older couple. “Welcome to our new home.” The child straightened, beaming like a street lamp.
Elizabeth hurried back to check on the choir. Dressed in matching white robes, the pupils chattered to each other like a flock of starlings. “Girls!” Elizabeth waited for their attention.
The children quieted, turning their wide-eyed gazes to their music teacher.
“We’re all excited, I’m sure. This is a day we’ve looked forward to for quite a while.” Elizabeth touched the backs of the two young women on either side of her. “I am so proud of you, I could burst my buttons.”
The students giggled, their bright faces sending a thrill through Elizabeth’s chest.
“But, today isn’t about impressing the donors. It’s about thanking them and God for providing this beautiful building, and making it possible for all of us to have new lives.” A lump rose in her throat, choking off her words for a moment. “I’m so glad mine is with you.” Her voice cracked, pitching upward.
Many hands reached out to touch Elizabeth’s arms and shoulders, as they dissolved into an impromptu mass hug.
She laughed as they nearly knocked her over. “All right, enough. We need to focus on the program ahead. Remember what we’ve practiced.”
“Teacher, teacher.” Little Ah Cheng tugged at Elizabeth’s skirt.
Elizabeth crouched down to hear the child over the buzzing conversations.
“Teacher, I don’t feel so good.”
***
Charles huddled under the black umbrella as he made his way down Sacramento Street, the oiled silk doing little to keep the blowing rain from soaking him through. He crushed the armful of bouquets to his chest, not that they’d mind the added moisture.
He’d anticipated this day for weeks. Elizabeth deserved every accolade the Mission supporters were likely to heap upon her. Who could help but be impressed with what she’d accomplished in such a short time?
The weather carried his thoughts back to the day they’d met. He could never have imagined she’d become an enduring fixture in his life. And if Charles had his way—he’d never leave her side. How long should one wait before issuing a proposal? If he thought she’d say yes, he’d drop to one knee in front of the entire gathering.
Up ahead, Elizabeth’s brother and sister-in-law climbed the steps to the Home.
Charles hurried to catch up to them. “Dr. King, Mrs. King—how nice to bump into you.” He tucked the flowers under his arm.
Dr. King stepped back so Charles could join them under the cover. “Mr. McKinley, I’m surprised to see you here. I didn’t realize you still had dealings with the Mission.”
Elizabeth obviously hadn’t mentioned their relationship to her brother. Charles folded the umbrella and left it in the corner to dry. “I’m volunteering my time.”
A twinkle in Mrs. King’s eyes suggested she might be more aware than her husband. “Of course you are. And why wouldn’t you?”
The door swung open, little Yoke Soo rushing out to greet them. “Welcome to our new home!” She chirped the words like a little songbird. “Come in, come in!”
Kum Yong followed on the child’s heels. “Abby, my friend.” She grabbed Mrs. King’s hand and tugged her inside. “I’m delighted to see you.”
The doctor’s wife threw her arms around the smaller woman, the vibrant show of affection surprising Charles.
Yoke Soo tugged on Charles’s pant leg. “Welcome, Mr. ’Kinley.”
He scooped her up, the mispronunciation making her more endearing. With her brilliant red tunic the child resembled a ladybug. “I can’t wait to hear you play piano today.”
Her eyes widened at the sight of the flowers. Her fingers touched the tender blossoms. “For me?”
Charles chuckled. When did women learn the art of politely waiting to be offered a gift? Apparently, not at age six. “I brought one flower for each of you.”
She buried her nose in the bouquet. “Then you brought too many.”
He ducked close to her ear, lowering his voice. “And an extra bunch for your pretty teacher. But it’s a secret. I don’t want the others to be jealous.”
Yoke Soo grinned and patted his cheeks. “She likes you.”
He couldn’t resist giving the little girl a squeeze. “I’m glad to hear it.” He lowered her to the floor so she could continue her duties.
Robert’s mouth quirked upward. “Looks like you’ve made a few friends, Mr. McKinley.”
Little do you know. “Please, call me Charles. I’m only Mr. McKinley at the office.”
The doctor nodded, removing his dark hat. “I know how you feel. And you must call me Robert. Would you like to sit with us? Gerald and Ruby should be arriving shortly.”
Charles nodded. “I’d be honored. Could you save me a seat? I need to speak with someone first.”
“Not too long—there’s sure to be a crowd.” He glanced down at the massive bunch of flowers. “You want me to take those in for you?”
“That would be helpful, thank you. I’ll just be a moment.” He needed to find a certain young lady and wish her the best. Probably best to do so without flora in hand.
***
“Oh, dear.” Elizabeth touched Ah Cheng’s warm forehead. Scooping the child up, she hurried to the dining room.
Donaldina met her in the doorway. After Elizabeth’s brief explanation, Donaldina sighed. “Have Kum Yong put her to bed. It doesn’t look too serious. We can take turns checking on her during the program.” She brushed a kiss to Ah Cheng’s hair. “Get some sleep, sweetheart.”
Ah Cheng laid her head down, wrapping arms around Elizabeth’s neck.
Elizabeth stroked her back. “I’ll take her up. Kum Yong will need to translate for your opening comments.” Several of their friends from Chinatown had agreed to join them for the day, so Donaldina had decided to offer the program in English and Cantonese. “The music doesn’t start right away.”
Donaldina pursed her lips. “Hurry back. I want to introduce our newest teacher. You’re responsible for pulling this whole day together.”
With a quick nod, Elizabeth shifted Ah Cheng higher on her hip and headed for the large staircase.
Charles caught her before she’d reached the first tread. “Is everything all right?”
The earnestness in his eyes warmed her as much as the girl’s body leaning against her shoulder. “Ah Cheng has a slight fever. I’m going to tuck her in and then come right back. Have you gotten a seat?”
“I was tempted to claim front and center so I had the best view of the music teacher, but I thought better of it. I’ll be sitting with your family.” He grasped her free hand and pressed a quick kiss to her fingers. “I wanted to wish you the best.”
A tingle went up her arm in response to his touch, her mind returning to yesterday’s kiss. Kisses. A wave of heat climbed her neck. Best to keep her mind focuses on today. Elizabet
h patted Ah Cheng’s back as she climbed the stairs.
“Don’t want to miss show,” the little one murmured.
“We’ll tell you all about it. I’ll send Yoke Soo to cheer you up, later. Would you like that?”
The girl had already drifted off, her head nestled in the crook of Elizabeth’s shoulder. Elizabeth tucked her into the low bed. Perhaps Robert or Gerald could look in on her before they went home.
Backing out of the room, she left the door ajar and hurried downstairs. She hadn’t missed the opening words after all. Some of the guests were still getting situated. A tap on the front door caught her attention.
Elizabeth smoothed her gown and pulled the door open. “Welcome. We’re just about to start.”
The familiar figure on the front step stared out from under a dripping umbrella.
Tobias. Weakness engulfed Elizabeth, her legs suddenly no stronger than blades of grass. “Wha-what are you doing here?” She blinked several times, clearing her eyes.
He removed his hat, pressing it to his chest. “I could ask you the same. I never realized this was where you were hiding yourself.”
A thousand bees buzzed in her ears. “Why else would you come?”
He lifted one brow, his catlike eyes gleaming. “Don’t flatter yourself, Elizabeth. I’m a donor. My name was on the invitation list.” He stepped to one side, revealing a raven-haired woman behind him. “I’m sure you remember Mrs. Carver.”
Elizabeth backed up, her vision tunneling like she’d been dropped to the bottom of a dark well. His wife.
25
A cultured pianist shouldn’t involve herself in political causes.” Tobias’s words from years before echoed in her mind. To see him standing on the doorstep of the Presbyterian Mission stole the breath from her chest.
“May we come in?” Tobias’s brow lifted. He’d obviously recovered from the shock.
If only she could do the same. “Of course. Please, enter.” Elizabeth stepped back as her former teacher and his wife walked through the door.
“Marie, you remember my prize pupil, don’t you?” He turned to his wife.
Through the Shadows Page 23