“Yes, if you make sure she can lie down most of the way,” Doc advised. “The sooner you can take her there, the better.”
“Since Mary is nursing the twins, we’ll have to take them with us, but I’m sure her aunts will be able to handle them.”
“Maybe you could send one of the girls along to help out,” Doc suggested.
John smiled. “Good idea. I’ll send Molly along. She’s only eight, but she’s a good helper and the twins love her.”
“Just so long as Mary gets the rest she needs. That’s the important thing,” Doc added.
John nodded. “Fine. I’m sure Caroline and Juliette can help us pack. We’ll leave as soon as we can get ready. ”
“What’s to become of us?” Caroline asked her sister as the buggy disappeared. “First the hotel. Now this.”
“Good question,” Reuben stated as he echoed his sister’s fears. “Father’s already been at his wit’s end.”
Juliette let out a deep sigh and squished her eyes shut tightly. “The Baker family needs a miracle.”
❧
By ten o’clock Juliette had risen, fed Andrew, dressed him, turned his care over to Caroline, and was walking down Main Street toward the Stark home. She’d never begged before, but if begging would help, she’d do it.
Mrs. Stark answered the door almost immediately.
Juliette moved past her into the well-furnished parlor. “I’ve come to ask for more time to buy the hotel.”
The woman began to shake her head. “I’m sorry, Dear. I simply can’t do it. There is someone ready to buy it in case your father doesn’t come up with the money. I need to get this settled.”
“No, you can’t sell it to someone else. He needs that hotel!”
“I’m sorry, Dear, but this buyer is willing to give me more money than your father had offered. I’m afraid I have no choice but to sell it to him.”
“But, Mrs. Stark, my mother is sick. My father just left to take her fifty miles away to the home of two of her aunts, where she can rest and get the care she needs. You know how poorly she’s felt since we arrived in Dove City. He can’t possibly be back in time to come up with the money by your deadline!”
“I’m sorry to hear about your mother, but I must think of myself and my own family.”
Juliette jumped to her feet. “You’ve given him to the end of the month. He had your word on it. His time isn’t up yet.”
“The end of the month is only a few days away. I’m sorry. That’s all the time I can give him.”
Furious at the woman, she turned and rushed out into the morning air.
❧
With a small bundle tucked under one arm and an apology in his heart, Stone mounted Blackie and headed for town.
As he passed the Stark house on Main Street, the door burst open and Juliette came bustling out. He called to her, but she didn’t seem to hear. Leaping off Blackie, he quickly tied him to a hitching post and hurried after her.
He caught up to her nearly a half a block farther, and to his surprise, she literally flung herself into his arms. He pulled her close, unsure of the reason for his good fortune.
“Oh, Stone, Mother had a bad spell when we were at your house. You know how thin she is. She hasn’t been well since the twins were born. Doc Meeker said he thinks she needs rest to get well. She needs to get away from the busy demands of her everyday life. Away from us.” She buried her head in his chest, deep sobs wracking her body. “I think the worry about Father’s job has been too much for her. She’s exhausted. She hasn’t been eating or sleeping, she’s—”
“What’s your father going to do? Where would she go?”
“Some of Mother’s relatives live about fifty miles away. They’ve been wanting Mother to come for a visit. They’re both widows and don’t have children at home, so it will be peaceful and quiet there. Father fixed up a bed in his buggy. They left early this morning.”
“Oh, Juliette, I’m so sorry. If only I’d known. How’s your father taking it? What did Doc say?”
“Father took it pretty hard, but he was brave for Mother. We’re all worried. She looked so pale—”
He wrapped his arms tightly about her, wishing he could do something to make things better. “I want to help. What can I do?”
She lifted misty eyes to his. “Marry me!”
Six
Stone grasped Juliette’s shoulders and stared at her delicate, tear-stained face in disbelief. “Mar–marry you? I—is that what you said?” Is God answering my prayer already?
Her body trembled, and she pursed her lips before answering. “Yes—that’s exactly what I said.”
He held her at arm’s length. “Why were you at Mrs. Stark’s house?”
She hung her head. “Begging for more time.”
“And she refused, I take it?”
“Worse than that. She said she had another buyer ready to sign the contract for more money than Father was going to give her.”
“So that’s why you’ve had a change of heart. You’ve decided to marry me so your father can buy the hotel.”
She bit her lower lip and avoided his eyes. “Yes, if you’ll still have me.”
Stone grew sullen. “I told your father I’d give him the money. Talk him into taking it, and you won’t have to marry me.”
“He won’t take it. Please, Stone. Father won’t be home for several days. By then, it’ll be past the end of the month and too late. But you could close the sale yourself and take the money to Mrs. Stark.” She lifted her gaze until it met his. “I promise I’ll marry you, and I’ll be a good wife.”
“I–I don’t know,” he said hesitantly as he eyed her. “I think we’re all asking too much of you. Especially me.”
She lifted her hand and stroked his cheek. “No, Stone. Not you. I see that now. Your motives are pure. You’ve asked so little in return. It is I who’s been selfish. You’ve not only offered me a fine home for my son and myself and all that goes with it, but you’re making it possible for my family to keep the hotel. I’m asking for your forgiveness.”
He leaned away in surprise. “My forgiveness? There’s nothing to forgive. I was coming to apologize to you and ask for your forgiveness!”
“I’ll be a good mother to your boys, and I’ll run your house the best I can. I know I’ll never be as good at it as your Lucy, but I’ll try. Please, Stone. Marry me!”
“You’ll do just fine,” he assured her as he lifted her hand to his lips and kissed it. “I want you to know I’ll never expect—” He fumbled around for the words.
She laughed through her tears. “I know—and I trust you.”
He stood proudly, his head held high. “I’ll go to the bank now and have Marquette draw up the papers. I’ll sign them on John’s behalf and have the money transferred to Mrs. Stark’s account. By the time your father gets back home, your family will own the hotel.”
Juliette’s hands covered her face as she wept. “I’m so grateful, Stone. Father said you were a good man, and you are.” Slowly, she looked up into his eyes. “When shall we be married?”
He gave her a victorious grin. “As soon as your mother is able to come to the wedding.”
She smiled, asking through her tears, “Do you want a small wedding? With just our families?”
“Nope. Want a big one. Let’s invite everyone in the community. I want to do it up right.”
“Of course, your sister and your sons will come in time for the wedding, won’t they?”
The corners of his mouth turned up, causing crinkly lines to form by his eyes. “Yep, I can hardly wait for them to meet my bride.”
“I’m excited about meeting them too. I’m sure they’re fine boys. They’re yours.”
He reared back with a laugh. “Can’t take credit for their upbringing, but I’m sure my sister is doing a fine job. You know I’ll be a good father to Andrew, don’t you? I love that boy already.”
Her hand quickly covered her mouth. “Andrew! I almost forgot. I
left Caroline taking care of the children, and Reuben is working at the front desk by himself. He needs to do his chores. I have to get home.”
He reached for her hand. “I’ll walk you there.”
“But—” She gestured toward Blackie, still tied up to the post.
“He’s got nothing better to do. He’ll wait.”
❧
After Stone had seen Juliette safely back to the hotel, he walked to where he had hitched Blackie to the post. After making sure the gelding was still secured properly, he walked down the street to the bank.
Robert Marquette greeted him with a handshake as he entered. “What can I do for you today?”
“I need you to draw up a contract for me, Robert,” he answered, towering over the man.
The bank president motioned toward his big oak desk. “Gonna buy some more land, are you, Stone?”
“You might say that.”
Mr. Marquette pulled some papers from a drawer, then dipped his pen in the inkwell. “I hope you have the legal description.”
“Nope, but I’m sure you do. I want the papers drawn up in John Baker’s name. He’s buying The Great Plains Inn.”
Mr. Marquette quit smiling. “I turned down his request for a loan, Stone. He has no collateral.”
“He doesn’t need collateral, Robert. He has the money. Right here in your bank.”
The man shook his head sadly. “No, I’m afraid you’re wrong. I’m afraid John Baker would be hard-pressed to come up with enough to buy a new sofa for the inn, let alone purchase the building.”
Stone pointed to the paper. “The contract, Robert. Write it up, or would you rather I take John’s business elsewhere?”
The man hesitated. “This seems like a waste of time, since I haven’t seen John’s money.”
“You want to see the money?” Stone stood to his feet and pounded a fist on the man’s desk, his patience wearing thin. “Then go into your vault and pull it out of my account. I’m covering it for John!”
The banker leaned back in his chair and stared at him. “You’re covering it? All of it? Do you realize how much money we’re talking about here? John has absolutely no collateral.”
Stone stared the man down. “Do you realize it’s my money and I can spend it any way I choose?”
“You’re sure about this?” the man prodded with concern.
Stone sat back down. “If I wasn’t sure, would I be here asking you for a contract?” He pointed to the pen. “Write.”
❧
Juliette sat in front of the window, staring into space. Well, I’ve done it. I’ve committed my life to Stone Piper. She lowered her head and closed her eyes. Oh, God, am I doing the right thing? I need Your assurance. Please, give me some sort of sign. This is not at all what I expected from life. I want to do Your will. Guide me, please. Draw me close to You.
“Juliette! Are you up there?” Caroline called to her from the lobby. “Someone is here to see you.”
She wiped at her eyes and smoothed her hair, then checked her sleeping baby before heading down the stairs.
“Got something for you,” Stone said with a big smile that all but covered his ruddy face. “Here.”
Juliette moved toward him. “For me? What?”
He continued to grin. “Actually, I have two things for you. This morning when I rode into town, I was bringing you this.” He handed her the china dish containing several bars of the delicate French soap from Lucy’s bath. “As a peace offering. But when I heard about your mother, I forgot to give it to you.”
Juliette took one of the sweetly scented bars and held it to her nose, breathing in the wonderful fragrance. “What a lovely gift. How thoughtful of you. Thank you.” She felt herself blushing.
“I have another gift for you,” Stone said, beaming at her, a broad smile covering his face. “You’re going to like this one too.”
“Oh, Stone. Two gifts in one day. You’re spoiling me.”
He gave her a sly wink. “I intend to keep spoiling you. You and Andrew.” He pulled a folded paper from his jacket pocket and handed it to her. “Here’s your other surprise.”
She carefully unfolded the legal-looking paper and began to read while Stone looked on. When she reached the end, tears exploded from her eyes. “Oh!”
“What is it, Juliette? Why are you crying?” Caroline asked as she hurried into the room. “What have you done to upset my sister?”
“I’m not upset, I’m happy!” Juliette grabbed Caroline’s arms and swung her about the room. “Stone purchased this hotel for our father! Mrs. Stark has already signed the bill of sale!”
“You did. You’ve bought the hotel? Oh, Mr. Piper, I love you. You’re an angel!” Caroline said happily.
Juliette laughed with amusement. “Careful there, little sister. You’re making Mr. Piper blush.”
“I’ve been called a lot of things, but never an angel.”
“Well, you’re our angel.” Caroline grinned as she climbed the stairs. “Wait’ll Father and Mother get home and hear about this!”
“You can keep thinking that, if you want to!” he called out with a chuckle before turning to Juliette. “I’d best be going. If you need anything before your father gets back, just send Reuben, and I’ll come running. I mean that, Juliette.” He bent and whispered in her ear, “You’re my family now.”
“You’re my family too.”
“You and I’ll get together soon to discuss our plans. That is, if you’re still willing to go through with our marriage.”
“Of course, I am! Can you have supper with us tomorrow night?” she offered. “I’m fixing bean soup, and I’m pretty good at it.”
“Bean soup, eh? That’s one of my favorites. With cornbread?”
“With cornbread.”
“I’ll be here.” He stepped away, nearly stumbling over a chair. “About six?”
“Six is fine.” Juliette watched him go. In a matter of hours, Stone had managed to turn the Baker family’s life around. Hers, as well. He was quite a man. She was sure he’d make a fine husband.
If only she loved him.
❧
Reuben stepped out from behind the counter in the hotel lobby and extended his hand. “Juliette said you were coming for supper. We’re having bean soup. It’s one of the few dishes my sister can cook.”
Stone smiled as he removed his hat and hung it on a peg. “With cornbread, right?”
Reuben shrugged. “Yeah, I guess so. She’s been scurrying around all afternoon, setting and resetting the table. You’d think a general was comin’ to eat with us.” He led the way through the hall and into the kitchen with Stone at his heels.
“Oh! You’re early.” Juliette quickly untied the apron from about her waist and began fidgeting with her hair. “I look a mess.”
“You look fine to me.”
“Well, make yourself at home. Dinner will be ready soon. Reuben, take him into the lobby where he can be more comfortable.”
Stone pointed to a chair near the stove. “Can’t I just sit there and watch? Hmm, that cornbread smells mighty good.”
Juliette spun around quickly and grabbed at the stove’s door. “The cornbread! I nearly forgot. Do you think it’s too done?” she asked as she extended the hot pan toward him.
He looked at the heavily blackened edges with a lifted brow. “Naw. Just the way I like it. Well done.”
“I wanted it to be perfect,” she groaned with a scowl as she placed the hot pan on an iron trivet. “But it’s ruined.”
“Looks perfect to me.”
“You’re just saying that because you’re a gentleman.”
Stone took her hand in his. “I’m saying it because you fixed it for me, and I’m grateful. I’m sure it’ll be fine. Don’t fret yourself about it.” He sniffed at the air. “Beans smell good.”
She turned away and lifted the lid on the big pot. “They do smell good, don’t they?”
Stone moved up beside her, took the long-handled spoon, and bega
n to stir. “Ah, we may have a problem. These beans are kinda stuck to the bottom of the pot. Fire must be a mite hot.” He lifted the spoon from the boiling mass and gazed at a wad of burnt beans.
She ran from the room with a shriek, her head in her hands.
Stone pulled the pot from the fire and dropped into the chair.
A few minutes later she returned, wearing a wan smile. “Well, do you still want to marry me, or is the wedding off?”
He touched the tip of her nose. “I didn’t ask to marry you because of your cooking capabilities. I have America for that.”
“Sorry about the beans and cornbread.”
He picked up his plate and carried it to the table, where she’d put the hot pan. After carefully cutting a piece of cornbread from the area where it was blackest, he topped it with a massive scoop of the burnt beans. “America burns them all the time,” he quipped with a broad smile. “They’re exactly like I like them.”
She reached for her own plate. “Liar.”
“What about the rest of the family? Aren’t they going to eat supper with us?”
“Not tonight. Caroline fed them earlier. I thought we needed a chance to talk—just the two of us. There are decisions to be made and things to discuss.”
Stone took a forkful of beans and cornbread and ate them as though they were the best beans he’d ever tasted.
Juliette watched, then took a bite of her own. “They’re awful!”
“I wouldn’t exactly say awful.”
“Well, I would!” She grabbed his plate and scraped the contents into a small tub of food scraps. “I’ll fix you a sandwich.”
He watched as she sliced the bread and topped it with thick wedges of smoked pork, glad he wasn’t going to have to eat that big plate of beans to appease her.
He took her hand in his when she brought the sandwiches to the table. Since he attended church regularly, he was sure she’d expect him to pray. “I think we need to get our relationship off to a proper start by thanking God for this food.”
She bowed her head.
“Thank You, God, for this food—” He sneaked a peak at his companion, then added, “and for Juliette’s willingness to share it with me. And all the other blessings You’ve poured out upon us. We bring Mary to Your attention and ask that You will make her well soon so she can attend our wedding. And—ah—I thank You that Juliette has agreed to become my wife. Amen.”
Lucy's Quilt Page 8