Perfectly Matched (The Blue Willow Brides Book #3): A Novel

by Brendan, Maggie

  “The freight charge is not the point.” His jaw muscle twitching, he gave her a firm look of reproach.

  “She likes you, Edward.” Anna stood with her hands fingering the ties of her robe.

  “I surely don’t know why.” He tried to take a step back, but the dog just followed with a happy bark.

  “Didn’t you ever want a pet when you were growing up?” She gave him an odd look, and Edward’s heart squeezed.

  There had been a time as a seven-year-old boy when he’d come running home from school after finding an injured stray kitten. He begged his father to let him doctor the kitten and keep him. Even now, he remembered how his father had snapped that a real man didn’t like cats. The answer was emphatically no. His mother tried to persuade his father to change his mind, but he wouldn’t hear of it. Too much cat hair flying about the house wasn’t good for one’s health, his father explained. Edward never asked again, but he used to secretly long for a dog or cat to play with.

  “Dogs can tell if you mean them harm. She must not sense that with you. I think she just wants to sniff your hand. Why don’t you just give her a pat on the head? I think she’d like that,” Anna suggested, laughing.

  Edward bent down and gave the dog a pat on the head, and Baby licked his hand. He quickly withdrew it. Baby sniffed his shoes, then began exploring the kitchen, poking her nose at the half-opened pantry door.

  “See! She likes you, Edward.”

  He looked at his bride. After her romp with her enthusiastic dog, her hair was disheveled, the belt of her robe was undone, and her pretty linen nightgown was peeking from beneath the robe. Her eyes were large and unsure, her lips a moist pout. But heavens above, she couldn’t have looked any prettier!

  He sighed heavily. “Maybe so, but what are we going to do with a dog?” If he continued looking into those luminous eyes for another moment, he’d move heaven and earth to purchase the moon for her.

  He stifled a groan. He must get back to work. A good hour or more had slipped by already, and he had promised Mr. Hadley that he could stop by and pick up his watch this morning. A clasp on Mrs. Kinkle’s strand of pearls needed repair, and he must service the bank’s vault. The list went on and on. In hindsight, he wished he’d taken a few days off to get to know Anna. Why hadn’t he thought of that?

  “Edward, are you all right?” Anna’s brows knitted together in question.

  He focused, suddenly remembering his immediate problem. “Yes, I’m fine. But I must get to work now,” he answered, glancing around for the dog. “Please find your dog and confine her to the kitchen until we can discuss the matter further.” He turned and stalked down the hallway to the adjoining shop, calling over his shoulder, “If you need anything at all before lunch, please just come and get me.”

  Edward unlocked the shop door, leaving it open a little in case Anna walked over later. He supposed he should show her the shop, but there’d be time for that later. He felt guilty leaving her so suddenly—but then he’d not allotted time for that little surprise with the dog. Normally he felt comforted when he entered his store, greeted by the ticking of all the different clocks from grandfather clocks to mantel clocks, but today his thoughts were all a jumble.

  He switched on the light at his work counter. Although sunlight flooded the shop, he needed a special concentrated light to work on the delicate movements of the different timepieces. He began to polish the pocket watch he’d repaired for Mr. Hadley, but the vision of Anna’s impish face continually interrupted his thoughts.

  4

  Anna hurried through the dishes and gave Baby some table scraps. She took the dog out to the backyard to do her business and then left her in the kitchen. After hurrying back upstairs, she dressed quickly, donned her coat, and grabbed her straw hat, determined to explore the city of Denver while Edward worked. It proved to be a glorious day, the crisp air chilling her bones, so she quickened her step down the sidewalk past neighbors’ homes until she reached Larimer Street bustling with horse-drawn carriages, wagons, carts, and pedestrians. Alstublieft! she thought. So many people! Cheyenne would be considered quaint in comparison.

  The clanging of a streetcar’s bell sounded across the street. Should she just take a ride? It would be easier to see downtown in a shorter time frame. Then she could return home and get settled in. The black-and-green car lumbered to a stop, and Anna stepped up the metal stairs to place a coin into the fare box.

  The conductor nodded, his crinkling eyes visible just below his black conductor cap, and Anna smiled back and moved into the aisle. A few businessmen looked with interest at her, and one lowered his morning paper to smile at her, but she avoided their gazes and took the first empty seat available. The streetcar lurched forward. Gazing out the window at the different shops and spacious stone buildings, she sat back against the leather seat to watch the busy view.

  The streetcar stopped at every corner as people got off or came aboard. This was going to be her town now, so she tried to familiarize herself with its street names as she passed—Speer Boulevard, Lincoln, Logan, Blake, and Wynkoop and 17th, where she had arrived by train at the enormous Union Station just two days before.

  Once again the mountain panorama was spectacular with snow-tipped peaks. She shuddered. It must be icy cold living up in the mountains. She thought fondly of her sister Greta, barely wed, and wondered what kind of weather was in store for her. She hoped they would occasionally be able to have short visits. She really liked Greta’s husband, Jess, and knew he would take good care of her, if not rein her in a bit.

  An older lady took a seat next to her and adjusted the folds of her dress and cape. “Quite a morning chill today,” she said cheerfully.

  “Ja, it is. Would you know if there is a park nearby?”

  The lady seemed affable enough and gave her a broad smile. “You’re a newcomer to the Mile High City, aren’t you?” The lady crossed her arms and turned in her seat to look at Anna directly.

  Anna nodded. “I’ve been enjoying the ride through the city to get the feel of the town.”

  The older lady clucked her tongue. “Well, good for you! To answer your question, yes, there is City Park—not the oldest, but very large. It was designed after New York Central Park. A pavilion and lake are already under construction. You’ll need to get off at the corner of York and Colorado Boulevard—we’re nearly there now. You’d better enjoy the park before the snow flies. ’Course, I’ve seen it snow one day and melt the next. That’s the beauty of living here.”

  “Dank U wel. I’ll remember that.”

  They chatted pleasantly until the lady told her the next stop was where Anna needed to get off.

  “Bless you. It has been so nice chatting with you,” Anna said as she stepped down, waving goodbye. If everyone was as friendly as that nice lady, then she would enjoy living here.

  Bright sun warmed the morning to a comfortable temperature, allowing Anna to unbutton her coat as she walked to the park. It was easy to spot the park, with mothers pushing their babies’ prams, couples strolling the winding pathways, and small children chasing a ball. Scattered about were benches in the sprawling grassy meadows. A posted sign said pets were not allowed in the park.

  From where she stood, Anna had the perfect view in any direction of the Rocky Mountains. Many trees had been planted, some old enough to lend plenty of shade in the hot summer months. Now they created an impressive splash of gold, orange, and red against deciduous firs. Leaves drifted slowly to the ground, and she enjoyed the crackling sound when she walked on them. Anna could already envision herself painting the autumn scene on canvas.

  After strolling down the winding path along the perimeter of the park, she finally took a seat on a bench. She hadn’t realized how far she’d walked and soon shed her coat, placing it on the bench next to her. She watched as a squirrel dug furiously beneath the fallen leaves, hiding his food for winter.

  Leaning back and closing her eyes, she was mindful of nature’s song all around—the birds t
weeting, the wind rustling the leaves, the distant sound of children’s voices. Whether from the long walk or the sleepless night, she felt drowsy and fell asleep from the sun’s warmth caressing her face.

  A nudge against her shoulder startled her, and she jerked awake.

  “I’m sorry, Anna. I thought it was you and I didn’t want to disturb you, but I felt like I must. We met yesterday. I’m Callie, a friend of Edward’s,” Callie said softly, peeking out from her frilly umbrella. Her blonde curls were pulled up into ringlets, and fringed bangs framed her pretty oval face. Her dress was cream silk with accents of peacock-blue along the bodice and shoulders, gathered with fullness with a tuck of blue bows at a point. The back of the dress was slightly bustled. Suddenly Anna felt awkward and plain in comparison, with her Dutch braids and plain Woolsey dress. Perhaps I should take more time with my appearance. Then I might look as lovely as Callie.

  Anna blinked at her new friend. “Hello. I must’ve fallen asleep.”

  Callie took a seat next to her. “You must’ve been very tired. You were only married yesterday! I must confess I’m surprised to see you at all today.” Callie had a worried look shadowing her face, and Anna blushed.

  “Edward is working, and I thought I’d take a look around . . . kind of get my bearings,” she answered. Anna was not about to tell Callie about last night or the list since she hardly knew her, but something about Callie’s sweet countenance made Anna think she could be a trusted friend once she got to know her. “What are you doing out this morning?”

  Callie put aside her umbrella. “Well, I like going for an outing or a drive for fresh air. Most of the time, I get out of the carriage and walk for the pure enjoyment of it.” She paused. “But it’s hardly morning now. It’s already one o’clock. Would you care to ride back home with me for some tea and sandwiches? I haven’t eaten yet.”

  “Ack! It’s that late already?” Anna quickly hopped up and reached for her coat. “Oh no. I must catch the streetcar and get back home. Edward will be waiting.”

  Callie rose as well. “Oh? Then why don’t you let me take you home. I’ll tell my driver.”

  “You have a carriage here?”

  “Yes. That’s my carriage parked by the roses over there. I don’t mind at all, and you won’t have to take the long way home. It’s no trouble at all.” Callie motioned for Anna to follow, and after a few seconds’ hesitation, Anna fell into step with her, grateful for the ride home and wondering how in the world she could’ve allowed herself to fall asleep. She blamed it on the warm sun.

  The grandfather clock chimed one o’clock. The morning had flown by. It was time for lunch now, and Edward’s back was aching from leaning over Mrs. Kinkle’s string of pearls. At least Mr. Hadley’s watch was ready when he dropped by first thing to pick it up. Edward was sort of expecting Anna to at least be interested enough that she would pop in, and he was disappointed when she didn’t. He smiled. She was probably just preparing lunch now. He shoved his chair back and left his suit jacket behind, considering whether he should roll his shirtsleeves back down, but it was warm in the shop today, so he didn’t.

  He whistled as he walked down the hallway, more to alert Anna that he was coming than anything else, but the house was quiet. Pushing the kitchen door open, he glanced around and things were just as he’d left them this morning. There was no sign of food for lunch or of Anna. To make matters worse, the dog, yapping, danced around from her place by the pantry door, which unfortunately had been left ajar. Baby had pulled out a sack of flour and the white powder was all over the place. When he walked over to see the damage, he stepped in a puddle on the floor. Edward clenched his fists at his side, then looked at Baby.

  “Shut up!”

  Baby cocked her head at him, whimpered, and lay down in front of him with her front paws crossed and her head down.

  This was not going to work. He knew this dog was going to be trouble. That’s why he liked horses—you could keep them in the barn!

  “Anna!” he called as he took the stairs two at a time, but she didn’t answer. He checked their bedroom just in case. Where could she have gone? Edward had intended on a quick lunch, then a trip to the bank. He paused, scratching his chin. Should he be worried? She knew nothing about the streets of Denver. He decided he’d give a little time for her to return before he started to look for her. Maybe she’d taken a short walk, but if so, he wished she’d at least informed him first.

  He headed back down to the kitchen to clean up the flour and make a sandwich, and by the time he started working on making his lunch, he heard the sound of a horse and buggy beside his front gate. He looked out the kitchen window but could only see the back of a carriage. He frowned. It must be Mrs. Kinkle, and she was hours early. With a groan, he stopped slicing meat and set his knife aside.

  5

  Anna called out to Edward as she entered the house, Callie following close behind. She wasn’t sure what frame of mind she would find him in. Would he be furious with her?

  “I’m here,” Edward answered as he wiped his hands on the kitchen towel. Moving toward them, he smiled brightly at Callie. “Oh, hello, Callie. I didn’t know you two were out together.”

  “Hello, Edward. We weren’t, but I thought Anna could use a lift home.” She gave him a warm smile.

  Anna felt her face burn. “I was out doing a bit of exploring. I’m sorry I’m late. I lost track of time.” Her excuse was flimsy at best, especially for a new bride whose husband decided what her every move would entail.

  Edward turned back to Callie. “Thank you for bringing Anna home. What do you think of the book we’re reading now? Or maybe I shouldn’t ask until we have our next literary meeting.”

  Callie’s laughter was gentle and ladylike when she answered him. “Edward, I must confess, I’m rather enjoying it . . .”

  Their voices faded into the background while they chatted and exchanged ideas about books, and Anna withdrew into herself. She couldn’t help but notice how Edward’s demeanor was relaxed and happy as he talked with Callie, whose brilliant smile reflected her good nature. Anna again compared her plain Woolsey dress to the stylish outfit Callie wore and indeed felt like a servant instead of a wife.

  Edward turned to Anna, his lips pursed in a thin line. “Perhaps you could fix our guest some tea?”

  She shook off her silly thoughts of comparison to interrupt them. “Yes, I will make us some tea,” she murmured. But she wasn’t sure Callie even heard her, and only a nod came from Edward. She turned to leave, but Callie paused, staying her on the arm.

  “Please, no tea for me. I must be going. But another time, perhaps? I’ll leave you newlyweds for now. I’m sure you have much better things to do than entertain me—but I will insist you come to dinner some night in the near future.” She raised an eyebrow in Edward’s direction, waiting for an answer.

  “We’d be delighted. Let me show you to the door, Callie. Thanks again for bringing my wayward wife home safe and sound,” he said. He walked her to the door and out into the street where her driver waited. With a brief wave, the driver set off down the avenue.

  Land of Goshen, he acts like I’ve been wandering for days, Anna thought. Then she realized she’d probably resembled a wanderer today. She went into the kitchen to set the teakettle to boil and finished slicing the roast Edward had set out for sandwiches. At least she knew how to make a simple lunch. Anna had seen the disapproving look in his eyes and chided herself for falling asleep in the park. She whacked away at the meat until it no longer resembled sliced roast beef.

  “Ahem.” Edward cleared his throat when he entered the kitchen, then strode over to take the knife from her hand. “Better let me take over before you slice off a finger.”

  Anna moved aside, crossing her arms. “How long have you known Callie?”

  Edward paused in placing the meat on bread and glanced up at her. “Since we were children. Why do you ask?”

  Anna’s heart thumped against her rib cage. “No reason, really
. Callie seems the perfect lady. She was very nice, bringing me all the way back home.”

  “Yes, Callie is a true lady. She always seems quite . . . organized in her behavior. Where were you anyway? You should’ve told me you were leaving. Besides, you don’t know anything about Denver. You were gone so long I tied the dog out in the backyard. I didn’t know what else to do with her.”

  “Thank you for doing that. I’ll check on her and give her some table scraps, if you don’t mind.” He shrugged so she continued, though she knew that wasn’t the end of the dog topic. “I decided to take a ride on the streetcar through downtown and wound up at City Park. I guess I fell asleep on the park bench after not sleeping well last night. It was so peaceful and quiet.”

  “What? Fell asleep in City Park? Where anyone could’ve seen you?” he sputtered, his steel-gray eyes widening.

  Anna pulled her shoulders back and breathed deeply. “I merely leaned back against the park bench to feel the sun’s rays. It was all very appropriate, I assure you.”

  “I can’t believe you’d go that far alone in a city you know nothing about.” As she was about to retort, Edward stepped closer and stroked her cheek gently with his finger. “That explains the sunburn on your nose and cheeks.” He didn’t move away but stood looking down at her. “With your fair skin, you’ll have to wear a bonnet. Denver is a mile high in elevation, so you’re closer to the sun’s rays.”

  “I—I—didn’t realize.” She touched her fingers to her face. He leaned so close that she could smell his aftershave. “I have several in my trunk,” Anna said, lifting her eyes to meet his. She thought he might kiss her, but instead he hastily moved away.

  “Good. Be sure to use them when you’re outdoors. Now let’s have our lunch, and I’ll go type up a new list for you. Maybe it would be best if you put the list in the kitchen where you can always find it. Then everything will be just right.” He placed their lunch on the table along with two glasses of water.