Chapter Fifteen

The service lasted longer than expected because so many of the townspeople wanted to pay their respects before the mass. The church was packed with people who wanted to say their last words to Papa. The procession of friends followed the coach ride back to the house.

We had decided that Papa would be placed to rest near those he loved and who loved him: Daniel, Molly, Gideon, Jenny, and Annie, Ma’s little sister who I was named after.

When all were at the gravesite, Uncle Mick stepped up to deliver the eulogy we’d asked him to do for the man who was more a brother to him than a friend. We all had tears rolling down our faces by then.

“Now, I promised my lovely wife I wouldn’t be long-winded,” Uncle Mick said, “but I wanted to say that I have had the honor of the friendship, respect, and love of this man, and to me that is worth more than anything in this world.”

Throughout the service, Mama looked around as if she was sure this was all a bad dream. I had the same feeling. I hoped Papa would surprise us by coming through the door, alive.

I’d never seen Mama look so lost. Papa had been her strength. All those years, I’d thought she was the strong one. He’d loved her enough to make her seem that way. That was true love.

Mama had once said she’d love Papa all of her days until the end of time and then some. I decided that that was the kind of love I wanted. I wanted a man who would love me for all my days and then some.

After the service, food was served in our rose garden. As my sisters were busy with their children, I looked at the beautiful roses that were Mama’s pride and joy. I felt a presence behind me, and I turned around and saw Travis Sullivan.

“Like I said, Miss Annie, anything you and your mother need, I’m willing to do it for you.”

With a nod, he turned and walked away. I felt as if that would be the last time I would ever speak to him.

It was a good three months before I saw Travis again. During the cold winter, I was on my way back from town when I ran into him.

“Annie, I—” he started.

“Mr. Sullivan, I see no reason for you to speak with me. I think your family has done enough to my family.’’

“Annie, I had no idea Sarah was—”

“I’m sorry, Mr. Sullivan, but I feel this conversation is over.”

He grabbed me by the waist and pulled me off of Snake Eyes.

“How dare you—”

“Promise you’ll hear me out,” he said.

I looked at him. “Give me one good reason why I should?”

“Because I love you, Annie. I have always loved you. I thought you knew that.”

I hesitated before I found my words. “All I know is that my papa is dead. I find it hard to believe that you claim to love me, and yet someone in your family killed him. Who will be the next one to die, and will you still love me then?”

He sighed. “Are you going to admit you care for me?”

“Mr. Sullivan…”

“My name is Travis.”

“Mr. Sullivan, I would no more admit I care—”

He stepped in closer. We were inches apart, and he looked deep into my eyes. That brief moment felt like an eternity as we stood looking at each other.

Then he said again, “Annie, admit you care for me.”