The Rescue

by Tanya Eavenson

  Rosalind moved to the rocking chair and set it in motion, recalling Glover’s words. With a sneer, he had shared with her Mr. Easton’s request regarding the party. Glover made sure to let her know he granted the request—which had delighted her— then informed her they would marry tonight, right after Trent’s party.

  Nausea swam in her stomach, then as it did now.

  Pray.

  She closed her eyes against the thought. What good would praying do? She wanted to believe her mother hadn’t lied to her, believe that God did indeed care. But God hadn’t healed her mother. Nor had he stopped her father’s gambling or preserved her future. Rather, she’d been left with a loneliness that had grown deeper and darker with each passing hour. Only a few more hours and she’d be bound to Glover for the rest of her life.

  She raised her eyes to the tall ceiling. “Lord, I...” she whispered. “I...please.”

  She said no more, just simply rocked her nephew and daydreamed of a life—a family—that might have been.

  Trent glared through his bedroom window at the street below. He ran his fingers through his hair, released a ragged breath, then took to pacing once again. He had to find Rosalind. She hadn’t come home yesterday. And with the party taking place within a few hours, she’d need to return to prepare, wouldn’t she? What if she had decided not to attend? He must see her one final time, whether she wanted to see him or not.

  His chest tightened. There’s nothing for you in Boston, she’d said. How wrong she was.

  He’d prayed into the night looking for direction, a dream, anything that would confirm he should stay in Boston. Yet God remained silent. Had God brought him here only to have him leave Rosalind once again? He shook his head. The idea made no sense. He couldn’t believe after their recent kiss that she still planned to marry Glover.

  A light knock sounded on his bedroom door. “Rosalind?” he called and opened it.

  “It’s me.” His mother stood there with a bewildered look on her face. “Sydney is here to see you. She’s in Rosalind’s room gathering her things. She said Rosalind won’t be returning until later in the week.”

  “That doesn’t make sense. Rosalind told me yesterday she was marrying Glover today.” He headed for Rosalind’s bedroom.

  “Wait.” Mother placed a hand on his arm as he passed. “Are you sure you understood her correctly?”

  He hadn’t planned to share their conversation with his mother, but something in the way she asked concerned him. “We had a bit of an argument, and she blurted it out.”

  “An argument?”

  He lowered his voice to match hers, hoping Sydney hadn’t overheard them speaking. “I told her I’d stay in Boston for her, but she told me to go home.” He rubbed the back of his neck, kneading his tensed muscles. “I’d give up everything for her, Mother.”

  She glanced toward Rosalind’s room, then met his gaze. “Go speak to Sydney. Find out if Rosalind plans to attend your party. And don’t mention what we’ve discussed.”

  Trent strode down the hall and stood at the entrance to Rosalind’s room. Her scent filled the air, and he inhaled deeply, his need to see her even more severe. Sydney stood at Rosalind’s dresser holding a carpet bag.

  “Sydney.”

  She turned and grinned. “Trenton. It’s good to see you. I’m just gathering a few things for Rosalind. Please, enter.” She set the carpet bag on the bed and stuffed a hair bow inside.

  It was as if he held his heart in his hands, willing to give it away for any news about Rosalind. “How is she?”

  A slight frown tightened her lips. “Do you know why my sister is upset enough to want to stay with me?”

  What could he tell her? They’d kissed and he basically asked her to marry him, but she refused him for Glover. “During our last conversation, I told her I’d stay in Boston for her.”

  Her gray eyes, remarkably like Rosalind’s, widened. “You did? And what did she say?”

  He shoved his hands in his pockets. “Go back to Texas.”

  “I see,” she whispered, collecting a few more items from the dresser and placing them in her bag. “Please tell me you’re not giving up so easily.”

  He wasn’t, but until the Lord showed him what to do or which way to go, he had only one choice—wait and be still. “What do you suggest I do? She’s marrying Glover.”

  She closed the dresser drawers and met his gaze. “I don’t know what she sees in the man, but I know she has feelings for you. Strong feelings, and that’s why I brought this.” She pulled a folded handkerchief from her dress pocket and opened it. “Mother was alive when I married Joshua. She gave him her blessing. She’s not here now, but I am. I give you my blessing.”

  His heart pounded in his ears as she placed the linen in his palm. The initial S was embroidered on the white cloth, and inside was a gold and diamond band.

  “Glover can’t make her happy. She doesn’t love him. Don’t give up, Trenton. Pursue her. Don’t let her get away this time.” She lifted her bag from the bed and smiled. “We’ll see you tonight.”

  Trent blinked, taking in what she’d said, then realized Sydney was leaving. “Let me walk you out.” He hurried to follow her.

  She waved him off. “I can see myself out. Besides, you must ready yourself for the party. Who knows what tonight may hold.” She grinned and descended the stairs.

  “I’ll send a carriage.” Trent gripped the rail with one hand and squeezed the rings in the other. What had just happened? He looked down into the foyer and watched Sydney leave.

  Be still, a familiar quiet voice said in his heart. Wait.

  Glover leaned back in his desk chair and twiddled his pen. He smirked. No matter what, today he would marry Rosalind.

  Roger knocked, and he enjoyed the sly grin sliding over his face as he made Roger wait. One, two, three seconds. Four. Roger knocked again.

  “Come in, Roger.”

  Roger hurried to Glover’s desk, speaking in hushed tones. “You summoned me from a meeting with investors?”

  “It’s good to see you pride yourself in something besides gambling. A man must take pride in his work.” Glover chuckled.

  “If you’re playing games, whatever you have to say can wait.” Roger turned to leave.

  “I’m changing our arrangement. I’m getting married and wanted you to be the first to hear of it. Well, the second if you count my lovely bride-to-be.”

  Roger turned back and pushed the door closed. “I know you’re getting married.”

  Glover’s smile stretched wider. “But when, dear Roger? That’s the question. Are you not going to ask? Aren’t you a bit curious to know when the happy couple will be united before witnesses and God?”

  “You know nothing about God.”

  Glover placed his hands on his desk and rose. “And you do?” He laughed. “You’re a gambler. Although it hurts Rosalind to see you this way, you care more about feeding your addiction than how your actions affect her. Let’s not forget, you used me to pay off your debts. You’re no better than I, Roger. We both have gotten what we wanted—well, I’ll soon have what I want. If this is the God you know, then he and I would get along wonderfully.”

  Roger hung his head. “This isn’t the God I knew.”

  “Then you must not have known God very well.” Glover skirted his desk and sat on the edge. “The Eastons will have Rosalind all to themselves tonight at the party—a concession I gave out of the goodness of my heart. However, after the party, I’m claiming my bride.”

  “That wasn’t our deal!” Roger hissed. “She’s not yet nineteen.”

  “I’ve held up my end of the bargain long enough. The mourning period is over. Everyone knows we’ve been courting.” He reached across his desk and lifted a white envelope. “Surprisingly, I’ve grown fond of you, Roger. Now that we’re to be family, I have a wedding present for you.”

  Roger took it, opened it, then counted the contents. He glanced up. “I don’t understand. Money?”

&nb
sp; Glover leaned back and lifted his cigar. “You will leave town. I want you as far away from here, from Rosalind, as possible.”

  “I can’t leave my daughters. I can’t do that.”

  “Boston can be a dangerous place, Roger. Men die in alleys or go missing and are never seen again. You remember Scott Tomlinson?” He took a puff of his cigar.

  “Yes, he went missing right after ...”

  Glover smiled at the fear in Roger’s eyes. “If you want to live, move away. It’s up to you, but I’d much rather you live for Rosalind’s sake. Yet again ...” He set his cigar down and rubbed his jaw. “My wife would need much comfort if she were grieving.”

  “You can’t be serious. What would I say to Rosalind? Or the Eastons?”

  He shrugged. “Tell them you plan to visit them.”

  “In Texas?”

  “Yessssss. Texas.” And what a perfect, perfect idea. “Rosalind will accept that. Then, you will simply stay there. Away from here. Away from Rosalind. You may leave now.”

  “You can’t do this.”

  “Oh, yes, I can. And Roger, no need for you to attend the wedding. It will be a very private ceremony.” He stared into Roger’s cowardly face and leaned forward. “I want tonight to be the last time I see you.”

  Roger squeezed the envelope. “Glover, I beg you—”

  He chuckled. “Get out of my office. Or, if you prefer, I have a couple associates that can help you out.”

  Roger scurried through the door like the whimpering fool he was.

  Glover checked the time. At the party, he would admire Rosalind from afar. Soon, he’d admire her much more closely.

  Chapter Twelve

  “Rosalind, are you listening?”

  Rosalind met Sydney’s gaze. Her sister held a mirror before her. “What did you say?”

  “Hmm. I’m curious to whom your thoughts have wandered, but I can guess.”

  “Glover,” Rosalind answered quickly.

  Sydney smiled as if she didn’t believe her.

  Truthfully, she was thinking of Glover. How could she dance with Trenton tonight without angering Glover, even with his permission? He’d be watching her, watching them. She must be careful not to let her feelings show and fuel his temper.

  Tonight would be the last time she and Trent would be together, the last time she’d see him. Although her heart ached at the knowledge, she swallowed, stuffing down the pain, and focused on her sister’s instructions.

  “Turn your head to the left.” Sydney pointed. “See, I placed the bow above your ear. Do you like it?” Small ringlets hung from her temple, and Sydney had pinned up the rest of her hair, with small pearl beads pressed in sporadic fashion.

  “It’s so lovely, Sydney.” She forced a chuckle. “I think you missed a calling.”

  “Thank you.” Her sister gave a mock bow and smiled. “When Anna’s older, her hair will be quite fashionable. No doubt I’ll fret over every primp and tuck.”

  “You will obsess, I’m sure.” How she loved Sydney and was so thankful she and Joshua had returned to Boston. Rosalind drew a breath.

  “Now listen, little sister. Every man at the party will be eyeing you from the moment you walk in. Including Trenton.”

  Rosalind said nothing. She ran her fingers over the fabric crisscrossing her torso, then tapering to bows on both sides. The green gown was breathtaking. Mrs. Easton said the color accented her brown hair and gray eyes.

  “You look very lovely yourself.” She touched Sydney’s sleeve. “Who would have thought of black lace along the front and sleeves? I just adore burgundy on you.”

  She sighed. “It’s Joshua’s favorite color.”

  “You miss him.”

  Sydney rested on the edge of her bed. “Yes, it’s hard on me when he’s away, but when he comes home it’s like heaven on earth. He loves and cherishes me. I thank the Lord he will be stationed on the naval base close to home.”

  “I’m thankful too.” A wave of sadness washed over Rosalind. What would it be like to be loved and cherished the way Joshua adored her sister? She’d seen the love in his eyes when he and Sydney were together and how he catered to her when he was home from his required months at sea.

  Rosalind blinked and steeled her emotions. Her marriage to Glover wouldn’t have love. She’d simply have to endure it one day at a time and find a way to tolerate his touch.

  “Are you all right?”

  She stood. “Perfectly fine. Are we ready to leave?”

  Her sister eyed her for a moment longer, an expression which said, I’m letting this go for now. Then she rose from the bed and checked her reflection in her vanity mirror. “Yes, I’ll meet you downstairs. I want to give Doris further instructions about the children.” Sydney left the room.

  Rosalind didn’t need a final look in the mirror. She knew she’d never looked more elegant in her life. Her most beautiful, most horrible night. She followed Sydney out and descended the stairs.

  “Oh, Miss Standford, you look wonderful.” Doris held Anna over her shoulder and patted the baby’s back. “Now, you both have a lovely time and don’t worry about a thing.”

  “Thank you, Doris.” Sydney kissed Anna’s fingers, then opened the door.

  Rosalind was struck breathless as she exited. The light from an open carriage that sat waiting for them would guide their way. “Who sent this?”

  Her sister said nothing, taking the driver’s hand as he helped her into the carriage. Then he offered the same assistance to Rosalind.

  The driver pointed to a blanket on the seat beside them. “We’ve only a few blocks to travel. Please use the blanket if you become cold.”

  “Thank you.” Sydney ran her hand along the bench. “Oh my. This red cloth is so soft.” The carriage rolled forward.

  “We must thank whoever provided this carriage.”

  “Dear sister.” Sydney covered her lap with the blanket. “As if you didn’t know it was Trenton. I think you must be blind not to see he cares for you.”

  Rosalind took a moment to continue to dream of a life with Trent, full of simple moments like these. It wasn’t only the luxury, but the man who loved her with all his being, like Joshua loved Sydney.

  “We’re close.” Sydney pointed. “The Eastons’ old residence.” Several carriages—although none as nice as the one they occupied—lined the front of the house.

  Rosalind’s pulse raced as they rode into the driveway. She’d seen the estate many times since the Eastons had left, but now as the lights shown from the windows and guests entered the home, time seemed to have stood still and memories wove Trent and her together.

  As they slowed to a stop, Trent came from the house. He was dashing in his dark coat, and as he neared, the light from the carriage shone on his handsome face. He assisted Sydney to the ground, but his eyes sparkled as he held out his hand for her. “Hello, Rose.” He grinned.

  “Hello.” A blush warmed her cheeks as she took his hand, and he gave hers a small squeeze. She stepped down onto the paved walk and looked up at him. The way he smiled at her now made her feel special in a way she’d never known and would never know again.

  Breathe.

  He tucked her arm through his and led her up the path. They waited in line to enter the house.

  Taking another deep breath, she glanced around hoping to see her sister, hoping not to see Glover.

  “Are you looking for someone?” He covered her hand with his.

  How could his covering her hand make her feel so safe and treasured? “My sister.”

  His gaze fell to her lips as his hold tightened. “Sydney’s farther in line. I believe she left us alone on purpose.”

  “I see.” Sydney had been encouraging her toward Trent since his arrival and, no matter how much Rosalind tried to hide her feelings, she believed her sister knew her heart. So help her, tonight there would be no distance between them, and she would bask in Trent’s affections and be thankful for every blissful hour. She wouldn’t worry she’d b
e punished by Glover for enjoying herself. Tonight, for one evening, she would live as she’d dreamed of living.

  The line began to move. “Father and Mother will be happy to see you, especially Mother. She mentioned you bought a lovely gown.”

  Rosalind glanced ahead and noticed his parents standing at the entrance and greeting guests. “Oh, Trent.” She covered her mouth with her gloved hand. “You should be with your parents.”

  “Don’t worry.”

  Finally, they reached his parents, both of whom hugged her. Then Trent’s mother held her at arm’s length. “Don’t you look lovely.” Mariam’s eyed filled with tears, darkening their green hue. “You look just like your mother.” She embraced her again.

  “Thank you,” Rosalind whispered.

  A man cleared his throat, and Rosalind’s blood ran cold. Glover. How had she not seen him? How long had he been watching them? Perspiration dotted her brow.

  Glover, who stood next in line, bowed and then straightened. “Hello, Rosalind, dear.”

  Mr. Easton held out his hand. “Glad you could make it.”

  Glover accepted his hand and smiled. “I wouldn’t miss this for the world.” He then turned to Trent. “Knowing how much your parents will miss you, I’m sorry to see you leave our lovely city. But a man must protect his property, his cattle, his sheep, or ... whatever it is you have in Texas.”

  Rosalind’s anger pricked. Trent was more of a man than Glover ever had been or ever would be. She avoided Glover’s gaze and smiled sweetly toward the couple behind him, hoping to move the line along and him out of her sight.

  Trent must have known her thoughts because he accepted Glover’s false regret and turned to greet the couple behind him. From the corner of her eye, Rosalind saw Glover stroll away.

  She let herself smile, a real smile, reveling in the joy of standing with the Eastons as they greeted their remaining guests. For the first time in years, she felt part of a family, accepted and loved for herself.

  Tonight, after the party, when she was forced to marry, she would remember this moment. And in the future, she would dwell on the memory against the loneliness that was sure to come.