Sarah grabbed a wrap, hiked her skirt and descended the stairs, wincing at the discomfort caused by the corset she’d charged on her account at the mercantile. She much preferred a chemise to such a binding garment, but if she wanted to be a modern woman she had to suffer the consequences. Her layered petticoats rustled nosily in the silence of the dimly-lit hallway.
Sweeping into the kitchen, Sarah pivoted for a wide-eyed Maggie. “How do I look?”
The older woman’s hand moved to her throat just as a sigh escaped. She surveyed Sarah from head to toe. “Beautiful… absolutely beautiful. Wait until Jonathan gets a gander at you. You’re bound to be the most handsome couple at the dance.”
Sarah peered down at her radiant green silk gown. The bodice dipped invitingly enough to suggest feminine attributes without revealing too much, while attractively flared sleeves ended in snug cuffs above her wrists. She cast a wistful look at Maggie and laid her shawl and reticule on the table. “I really shouldn’t have spent so much on this dress, but I so loved it the moment it caught my eye.” Placing her hands on the fitted waist that clung tightly to her cinched middle, she groaned. “I may look stylish enough, but I feel like a sack of potatoes at the moment… although in a pretty way, I’m sure.” She giggled. “I do hope Jonathan appreciates the torture I’m going through.”
“And what torture might that be?” His deep voice boomed from the doorway.
Sarah’s head snapped around. “Must you always sneak up on a body? You seem to only catch the tail end of our conversations which leads you totally away from what we really were discussing.”
“So, may I assume that you really aren’t being tormented?” He leaned against the wall, his arms and ankles crossed, looking more attractive than she remembered. His dark suit, freshly-pressed white shirt, and string tie only accentuated the teasing twinkle in his eyes.
“I’m quite fine, thank you. I merely used a figure of speech about something that concerns only women.” She brushed past him and went into the parlor, wondering why he hadn’t mentioned her appearance. Despite pretending not to care, her mouth pulled into a pout.
At the front window and pushed the curtain aside and peered onto the street. She pretended not to notice that he followed her into the room. He gave a low whistle that grabbed her attention. She turned and smiled. “I was beginning to wonder if you noticed my new dress or not.”
“Of course I noticed. I’d have to be blind not to. You look lovely.”
Suddenly she felt uncomfortable. She turned her gaze back to the window, feeling heat simmering in her cheeks. She’d welcomed his interest and now that she had it, it seemed wrong. Certainly, he appeared handsome and attentive—polite most of the time, but no matter how much she wanted to feel something for him, there wasn’t an attraction. He wasn’t Wolf. Damn him for not loving her.
“Did you hear what I said? I think you’re the most beautiful woman I’ve ever met.” Jonathan walked up behind her, standing so close his breath warmed the back of her neck.
She shuddered.
Chapter Twenty-Seven
Sarah clasped her damp palms together. “Yes, I heard you. Thank you for the compliment. ” She side-stepped Jonathan and crossed the room, stopping to straighten a crooked picture on the wall.
The nape of her neck still tingled from his breath; her stomach churned at the notion that it seemed too late to back out of going to the dance with him. Nervously, she re-hung the doily draped over the back of Maggie’s floral settee, while questioning her foolish misgivings. Undoubtedly, other women would adore having such a handsome escort.
Jonathan turned from the window, disappointment mirrored on his face. He glanced at the watch he pulled from an inside jacket pocket. “The dance starts shortly. Are you ready to go?”
Sarah held back a sigh. Even with reservations, she wouldn’t let him down at the last minute. “Let me get my things from the kitchen.”
Returning with her beaded bag swinging from her arm and an ivory wrap around her shoulders, she pulled her lips into a tight smile. “I’m ready now.”
Jonathan offered his arm. “It’s such a lovely evening out and only a short distance. I hope you don’t mind if we walk.”
A stroll might do her good. Perhaps between the boarding house and the dance hall she’d clear her mind of negative thoughts. Maggie was probably right. A night out could be what Sarah needed. “Shall we go?”
“After you, my lady.” He held the door open.
A wash of cool air forced her to pull her wrap tighter. She welcomed the respite from the stifling heat generated by Maggie’s cook stove and soon adjusted to the crisp feel of approaching fall. A gentle breeze carried the river’s earthy odor and teased the ringlets framing her face.
Allowing herself to relax and anticipate an enjoyable evening, Sarah re-hooked her arm through Jonathan’s and fell into step with his wide gait. Her petticoats swished against his pant leg while their heels clicked in unison on the boardwalk as she struggled to keep up. Breathless, she slowed to her own pace.
Jonathan glanced down at her. “I’m sorry for walking so fast. I forget that not everyone has my long legs.”
“If I maintain your stride, I’ll be worn out by the time we get there.” She chuckled and tucked a bothersome hair back into place.
Jonathan cocked his head, his eyes teasing. “I could carry you again.”
“Oh, no you can’t! I’m quite capable of walking to the dance on my own steam, thank you very much.” Her spirited response brought an end to the banter and left her feeling awkward. She wasn’t sure what they had in common to discuss. Clearly it wasn’t Wolf and his land.
A few stars dotted the sky, with more appearing as the colorful traces of sunset disappeared below the horizon. Sarah took a calming breath, wanting to ease the silence. “It’s certainly a beautiful evening, isn’t it?” Her voice seemed far too loud in the stillness.
Jonathan smiled down at her, covering her hand with his. “It is, but it pales in comparison to your loveliness. I’m so pleased that you agreed to accompany me tonight.”
Sincerely sparkled in his eyes, so why then did she consider his response contrived?And why did she question his motives at every turn? The man had done nothing more than show an interest in a plot of land…and her. She had to stop being such a wet blanket. “I’m happy I came, too.” Sarah’s response tumbled out before she thought.
Was she truly happy?
Before she determined the answer, they turned a corner. An assortment of wagons, buckboards and carriages lined the streets. The animals tethered to the hitching rails stood patiently; some whinnied softly as she and Jonathan passed. Lively music and laugher drifted from inside the town hall.
Sarah paused in the doorway, admiring the dancing rainbow of colors worn by the women. The starched, uncomfortable appearance maintained by most of the men made her want to giggle. It appeared everyone had donned their finest for the evening. She gazed down at her own gown, feeling well suited for the event. Although she didn’t see food or drink, her nose detected many appetizing aromas in the room.
“Listen to that melody; sure brings back some good memories.” She smiled, but a pain jabbed at her heart.
“Care to share?” Jonathan ushered her inside, stopping to take her wrap. She refused his offer but lowered it on her shoulders, feeling more stylish with a shawl.
“My pa used to play.” Sarah raised her tone in competition with the music. “I spent many a night square dancing with Ma while Pa wore out the strings on his fiddle. That was before….” Her voice cracked.
“Before what?”
“Good Evening, Miss Collins.” Someone called out.
Sarah looked up and gave an acknowledging nod. “Judge Lawson. How nice to see you again.” She welcomed the intrusion to the painful memories she’d been about to dredge up. “Have you met my escort, Mr. Jonathan Montgomery?”
“I don’t believe I have.” The judge offered his hand and the two men shook.
/> The older man glanced back at Sarah. “I’m assuming things are going well at school. At least, I haven’t heard any complaints.” His smile carved more wrinkles into his face.
She swallowed hard. “Well, I did have one student…”
“Let me guess. Horace Givens?” The judge chuckled. “I’m not surprised. He gives everyone problems. Why haven’t you asked for help?”
“I haven’t needed any. He and his brother haven’t been back since my first day. I chastised Horace for bullying another child, and he took his brother and left.”
“Normally, I’d be appalled at a student neglecting their education, but I believe you’re better off without the Givens brothers. At least, Horace; that one has no conscience.”
The boy’s warning rang in Sarah’s ears, but she hadn’t come here to discuss work or worry over what an overgrown bully said. Besides, they were only words tossed about in anger. She flashed a wide smile at Judge Lawson. “I will forever be grateful you gave me the job. I truly love the children, and they all seem so eager to learn.”
“I’m happy to hear that, Miss…” Something distracted him and he looked across the hall. “Oh dear, I see my wife motioning and giving me her most impatient stare. I fear I’ve neglected her. If you’ll pardon me...” He gave a slight bow and meandered towards a rotund lady with gray hair. “Do come and meet Mrs. Lawson before you leave,” he called over his shoulder.
The trio of musicians, two guitar players and a fiddler took a break. The shuffling of feet stilled, replaced by a chorus of voices meshing into one loud buzz. Jonathan’s gaze roamed the room, leaving Sarah to wonder if he thought she’d been rude. She tugged on his sleeve. “I’m sorry about that.”
“About what?” His brow rose in a confused arch.
“Judge Lawson… discussing my teaching position. I thought perhaps you felt ignored.”
“Not at all. With such a lovely woman on my arm, it’s to be expected that men will want to monopolize her time.”He winked one of his sky-blue eyes at her.
“Pshaw. Please, Judge Lawson is old enough to be my grandfather. I’d hardly consider discussing a job he hired me to do any threat to your status as my escort.” She forced a laugh.
Sarah’s cheeks heated, unable to deny that Jonathan Montgomery had a way with words. Still refusing to be dazzled by his charm, she covered her mouth to shield a dry cough. “Do you see the refreshment table?”
Jonathan placed an arm across his stomach and the other around his back and bowed low. “How remiss of me, my lady. May I get you something to quench your thirst?”
“Please.” She eyed the bench along the wall. “I’ll have a seat right here and wait for you.” Suddenly feeling warm, she shrugged off her shawl, folded it and placed it beneath her reticule next to her on the bench.
Sarah arranged her skirt around her and crossed her ankles. Her mouth felt cottony, and she smacked her lips. She took a composing breath and studied the sea of strangers before her. She’d seen one or two faces in the mercantile or on her way there, but it felt odd to be among such a crowd and feel so lonely. To entertain herself, she searched for facial features matching those of her students.
Returning with a cup brimming full, Jonathan gingerly handed it to her. “I hope you like apple cider.”
“My favorite.” She took a sip, overcome with pleasant recollections of warm cider and spices simmering in one of her mother’s pots.
He finished his drink, and set the empty cup on a nearby table. Then perched on the bench’s edge, he swiveled to look at her. His eyes narrowed with seriousness. “I have to warn you, I’m not a very polished dancer.”
Sarah released a pent-up breath. Was that what worried him? She patted his hand. “Then we’ll make a great pair. I fear unless it’s a square dance or reel, I’m not going to be smooth on my feet… or yours.” Unsettling visions raced through her mind.
The musicians took their place again and the plucky sounds of the fiddle turned to the sweet strains of a waltz backed by the slow strumming of guitars. Jonathan stood and held out his palm. “Shall we give it try?”
With a hitch in her breath, she put down her cup, and rose. She took his hand and placed her other on his shoulder and smiled up at him. “Don’t say I didn’t warn you about stepping on your toes.”
“To hold you in my embrace, fair lady, I will suffer the consequences.” He wrapped his arm around her waist and reeled her closer.
She nervously chewed her bottom lip but followed him with ease. Rather than watching her feet, she peered over his shoulder, concentrating on the rhythm and praying she didn’t falter. The man had lied about not knowing how to dance. His steps were smooth and even, his lead, commanding. She flicked a wave at Clarence, the clerk from the mercantile, who waltzed by holding a woman with a face even rounder than his.
By the time the song was over, Sarah had mastered the dance.
They applauded the trio’s musical efforts and returned to the bench. She scooped up her skirt and sat. “I don’t think I grazed your foot once.”
He sat and peered at his shiny black boots. “No, not even a scuff.”
* * *
Sarah blotted her mouth with her napkin. “That was delicious. I especially enjoyed the glaze on the ham.” She turned her head and discretely licked the tip of her finger for one last taste. Her face burned when she looked back and found Jonathan standing over her, waiting for the empty plate she balanced on her knees.
“The fried chicken wasn’t bad either.”He made no mention of her childish action, and took the soiled dinnerware back to the food area.
Leaning back against the wall, Sarah patted a full stomach. All in all, the evening had been pleasant. She’d chatted with a few folks, some of them her student’s parents, and her escort had been a pleasant companion. She waved as she saw him weaving his way toward her through the crowd.
A caller took the podium to announce a square dance. Sarah jumped to her feet and tugged Jonathan onto the dance floor. “Now I can show you how to dance.”
He scooted backwards. “I… I don’t think I’m up to it after such a filling meal.”
“That sounds like something a coward would say.” Sarah refused to be denied and yanked his arm once again. “I waltzed with you when I wasn’t certain I knew the steps.”She batted her eyelashes at him with mocked exaggeration. “Besides, the caller tells you exactly what to do.”
“Oh, all right. But you mustn’t laugh at me if I make a fool of myself.” Jonathan adjusted his string tie and walked slump-shouldered across to join the men in line on the other side of the room.
The musicians broke into a lively tune, and the caller’s voice rang out. “Meet your partner, two and fro, send her home with a do-si-do.”
Sarah chuckled at Jonathan’s furrowed brow. Following the line, he met her in the middle of the floor and hooked his arm with hers. He spun her with such force, she feared breaking loose and twirling back to the bench. They changed arms and spun again, and when Jonathan was supposed to sashay back into line, he turned and walked with purpose to his starting place. Sarah covered her mouth to hide her laughter. She’d finally found something that made Mr. Montgomery nervous—one thing he didn’t do well.
Jonathan stumbled through several more calls, but threw up his hands and left the floor. Sarah followed him, still giggling. “What happened?”
He plopped on the bench and ran a hand through his dampened hair. “I don’t know how anybody can make any sense of that dance.”
“But, you were doing so well.” She stood before him and puckered her lips in a dramatic pout.
“Do si do, forward and back, swing your partner…I understand most of that, but promenade? What the hell is that? I’ll stick to waltzing from now on.” He pulled at his collar and she expected to see steam escaping.
She sat next to him. “At least you tried.” After patting his knee, she jerked her hand away, embarrassed by her boldness. “I’m sorry.”
“For what?” He gazed
into her eyes. “Touching me, or making me take part in that torturous dance?”
“Both.” She smiled. “I’ve had a wonderful time tonight. I’m really glad—”
“Well, if it isn’t our new school teacher.”
Sarah glanced up into the craggy face of Mrs. Goodwin. Spectacles perched precariously on her nose as she cast a disapproving glare.
“How nice to see you again, Mrs. Goodwin.” Sarah’s gaze raked over the woman’s dress. “Is this the gown you ordered especially for tonight? It’s lovely.”
The old crone smacked her weathered lips together. “I sent it back. Didn’t like it at all.”
“Pity, but I do admire the one you’re wearing.” Sarah forced a smile, wishing the old hag dressed in what looked like a sack would leave.
Instead, the matron cupped her jowls and surveyed Jonathan. “Despite your previous rude behavior toward me, I’m at least pleased to see your taste in men has improved. But I wonder if you aren’t better suited for that half-breed you rode into town with.”
Sarah jumped to her feet.
Chapter Twenty-Eight
“How dare you!” Sarah glared at Edwina Goodwin, leaning in until their faces were only inches apart. “You’re nothing but a judgmental old biddy.”
The woman took a step back, her eyes wide, mouth gaping; her rouged cheeks appeared even more garish against her pale skin. “Well, I never…”
“Never what? Think before you speak? Consider other people’s feelings? I don’t know what gives you the right to be so high and mighty. I barely know you, but what little I’ve seen has shown me quite enough.”
Edwina stood, speechless, amidst a handful of curious people who’d gathered around her. Her pleated lips pulled into a thin line.
Sarah's Heart Page 20