7

Easter Sunday dawned bright and clear, much to the amazement of the citizens of Seattle. It seemed God had smiled upon them, and they were happy to take advantage of the moment. The ladies of Madison Bridal School had long planned an Easter celebration. It was to be held at a local park if the weather was pleasant and at the school should it be foul. The day was chilly but otherwise perfect, and Wade had talked his friend Thane into accompanying him with the ladies to church and then to the park. With the promise of food and the company of unmarried females, Wade didn’t have to do a whole lot of convincing.

Wade and Thane ended up in charge of transporting the food. Wade brought his wagon, and together he and Thane managed to load up plates and bowls full of delightful treats. And, of course, there were dozens of colorful hard-boiled eggs, thanks to the ladies of the school and their charges. Plans were made for couples to hunt for the Easter eggs, with a prize to be given to the couple who found the most. Several very special eggs were also going to be hidden, and these, too, would bring a prize.

Once the party was in full swing, Wade and Thane made their way through the crowd. There were still several girls who hadn’t yet paired off with a suitor, and Thane asked Wade to make the introductions so he could meet them.

“I think that’s something we should leave to Abrianna or one of the ladies,” Wade countered, spying his dear friend. “Abrianna, can you help us?”

She hadn’t heard him, so they crossed the distance between them to find Abrianna quite intent on a book. “You are a strange one,” Wade declared. “Reading away when you might actually do some good.”

Abrianna looked at him in confusion. “Do some good? What are you talking about?”

“Thane would like very much to meet the girls, the young ladies who are yet without a suitor.”

“I suppose I can make the introductions,” Abrianna said, getting to her feet and putting the book aside. She smiled at them both. “After all, we redheads should stick together, isn’t that true?”

Thane chuckled and touched his hand to his red hair. “Indeed. I’ll come under any excuse if it gets me into the company of the young ladies.”

Wade shook his head and smiled. “Let us be about it, then.”

Abrianna introduced Thane to the four young women who were yet to find suitors. Wade allowed himself to greet each one, as well, but he had no interest in getting to know them. He moved away from the gathering as Thane began to regale the ladies with stories of his volunteer firefighting job.

“Don’t you want to visit with the girls?” Abrianna asked.

“Not really. I thought I’d come and speak with you. Most of the time those girls don’t have a clue as to what’s going on in the world.”

“That’s because their world is confined to the school,” Abrianna said. “They spend very little time in the world during their training. But it serves them well. Most can cook, clean, sew, and sing by this time, and from now on it’s all down the hill, as they say.”

“Except for those four?” he questioned.

Abrianna glanced toward the ladies and nodded. “Those four are still struggling. Even so, they are much better at such things than I am.”

“I’m sure you are able,” Wade said. “God has given you talents, as well.”

“Not where the kitchen is concerned.” Abrianna’s sorrow was evident in her tone. “I am a grave disappointment there. Aunt Miriam said yesterday that she sometimes doubts her ability to teach when she considers my inability to learn.”

“So what did you burn yesterday?” he teased.

“Eggs,” Abrianna replied. “I forgot I was boiling eggs and, well, the pan went dry and the scorching began. It wasn’t pleasant. The smell was even worse. Did you know that burnt eggs have a tendency to explode?”

“I didn’t realize boiled eggs could be burned.”

Abrianna gave a sad little nod. “If there’s a way to burn something, I’m sure to figure it out. Apparently it comes quite naturally. On the positive side, I’m learning to be a most expert cleaning woman; otherwise I’m rather a challenge.”

“I would think after all these years of the ladies working to train you, something would have rubbed off,” Wade said.

She seemed to think about this a moment before answering. “Considering that for the first dozen years I was so intent on book studies and helping with various church charities, I was excused to a degree. Then as I approached these latter years . . . well . . . it’s my own fault that I’ve remained a failure. I have no interest in cooking or playing the piano. And don’t get me started on dainty embroidering.” She looked most forlorn. “It’s not the aunts’ fault. God knows they have labored long to teach me. I suppose if I put my mind to it, I might do better.”

“So why don’t you?”

Abrianna shrugged. “I’m just an obstinate burner of food.”

Wade laughed. “And none of the others ever burn anything?” he asked, looking back to where Thane continued to entertain the four suitorless women. “You have to look at the entire group, Abrianna.”

“Well, there is Militine. She doesn’t burn as much as she damages. She tends to be rather awkward, or maladroit, as Aunt Selma says. Aunt Miriam says it’s because her hands and feet are big, but I think she’s wrong. I think Militine is just scared.”

“Scared of what?” Wade asked, curious at this insightful declaration.

“Of most everything. Look at the way she is around Thane.”

Wade noticed the young woman was standing away from the others. At one point she backed up when Thane spoke to her, and she would have fallen onto the ground had he not reached out to steady her. “I see what you mean.”

“If you watch her for long, you would swear she’s making jest. I’ve never seen anyone stumble, bump into things, or otherwise break objects like Militine does. I believe it’s all about her uneasiness with people.”

“You may very well be right, Abrianna. She certainly seems a likable enough young woman.”

“Oh, she is,” Abrianna declared. “I think she is more down to earth and less pretentious than just about anyone in the world. I’ve really enjoyed Militine’s company, perhaps because we suffer some of the same woes in household duties. But her heart is good. If I were to pick out a dear friend among the ladies, it would be Militine.”

“Because she makes you feel less conspicuous?”

Abrianna thought for a moment. “I suppose that could be a part of it. We do tend to surround ourselves with people who make us feel better about ourselves, or at least safe. Yes, that’s it. I feel very safe with Militine. I know she will not judge me with harsh condemnation.”

“I know I appreciate when someone does that for me,” Wade agreed. “It’s why you and I have so long been friends. You never judge me unfairly, and that causes me to enjoy your company.”

“I never thought of it that way, but I see the truth in it. Even so, Militine is a fine person, and I believe if she can overcome her shyness, she’ll do well. Her consideration of others is one of her best qualities. Why, she’s even gone with Kolbein and me to look for his sister.”

“How is that hunt coming along?”

Abrianna shrugged. “Like King Arthur’s search for the grail. A worthy cause that has become a most vexing trial.”

“In other words like trying to find a needle in a haystack?”

“Exactly so. But Kolbein won’t give up. He’s much too devoted for that. He dearly loves his sister, and whether it takes a year or ten, I believe he will endeavor to find her. Men like him tend to be that way.”

“Men like him?”

“Lawyers, solicitors, and such. They are driven to find the truth. That’s what Kolbein is doing, no matter how much it delays his own life and interests.”

“But what about his position in Chicago? I wouldn’t think he could up and leave his law practice and clients.”

“Well, he tells me that he’s part of a large firm. They dole out things to him and he handles them. It’s all very organized, so he doesn’t need to go drumming up business. Not that he wouldn’t have it if he wanted it,” Abrianna added. “He’s very intelligent, and I have to say he knows a great deal about the world. Not only that, but he and his sister lost their parents, just as I have. Although I must say the circumstances were quite different.”

“And how was that?”

“A train accident in the Northeast somewhere. Train went right off a bridge, and everyone was killed. I think Kolbein was twenty-two and his sister ten. He took on the role of man of the family and finished raising Greta. Wasn’t that admirable?”

Wade didn’t care for the way Abrianna seemed to be taken in by Booth. There wasn’t time to say as much, however, because Abrianna was speaking again.

“Aunt Miriam has invited the poor man to dine with us on Sundays whenever it fits his plans. Aunt Selma is still worried that he might be related to John Wilkes Booth,” she said with a grin, “but Aunt Poisie reminded her that we must extend charity rather than judgment.

“Oh, look,” she interjected. “It’s time for the egg rolling. Aunt Miriam has a nice prize for the winner—it’s a basket of oranges. Isn’t that marvelous?” She started off in the direction of where the others were lining up.

“Are you going to compete?” Wade called after her.

“Not at all,” she replied. “I just want a better vantage point to watch.” She turned and threw him another smile. “Aren’t you coming? It’s so much fun to watch folks be silly.”

Wade laughed. Her girlish charm amused and endeared. “I’m coming, only I’m not sure who I’ll be more compelled to watch. Them or you.”

Lenore sat picking at her strawberry mousse. Easter Sunday had compelled her parents to spend the morning in church services before heading to one of the finest restaurants in San Francisco for a special luncheon.

If we were in Seattle I might be able to enjoy the day with Abrianna. She knew they would celebrate as they did every year, weather permitting, with egg hunts and camaraderie. Here, away from her best friend, Lenore felt lonelier than she ever had before.

“Are you unwell?” Mother asked.

Lenore shook her head. “I just miss being home.”

“Miss the rain and chill?” Father questioned. He pointed to her plate. “Do you plan to finish that?”

She scooted the plate in his direction. “No. Please have it.” Father didn’t have to be asked twice.

Mother sipped her tea and seemed unconcerned with Lenore’s desires for home. Mother loved California, and San Francisco appealed to her for its many diversions. But Lenore was consumed with other thoughts—in particular, thoughts of Kolbein Booth.

Why does he haunt me so? As a test she had tried to force the images of Kolbein from her mind just to see if her feelings were true. Lenore found it impossible to let go of her growing desire to know Mr. Booth better.

But it is impossible to know him better while I sit in San Francisco and he searches for his sister in Seattle.

What if he’d already found her and returned to Chicago? What if he had someone he cared for at home? Perhaps her feelings were for naught and no matter how Abrianna promoted her, Mr. Booth would have no more interest in Lenore than he might for a distant relative.

“I don’t believe you are paying any attention to your father,” Mother said, touching Lenore’s lacy sleeve.

“I’m sorry. My thoughts have been elsewhere. I will try to do better.” Lenore straightened a bit in her chair. “What did you wish to say, Father?”

“I was merely explaining that your mother and I have been asked to spend the evening with a business associate and his wife. I wanted to make certain that you would be comfortable remaining at the hotel alone.”

“Oh.” She thought for a moment and shrugged. “I am sure to be fine. I have a book I can read and perhaps I’ll even go to bed early.”

“Are you sure you aren’t feeling ill?” Mother asked. “I do worry about you. You haven’t been yourself since we left Seattle.”

Lenore thought it would be the perfect opportunity to reintroduce the subject of Kolbein Booth. Not by name, of course. “If you’ll recall, I did not wish to make this trip.” Her words were spoken respectfully but with emphasis. “I had hoped to further my relationship with . . . a certain gentleman.”

“Bah, that’s completely unimportant right now,” her father insisted. “We will be home soon enough. For now, there are other matters that need my attention.” He dabbed his mouth with a linen napkin, then signaled the waiter. When the man approached, he motioned to the table. “We’re finished here.”

Lenore sighed. If only that were true of their trip to San Francisco.

Abrianna had thought the day perfect until Priam Welby decided to join the affair. She stood alone to one side of the food tables and watched as couples skittered about looking for Easter eggs. One of the single young ladies had snagged Wade for her partner and was even now making him rustle through blackberry bushes to seek wayward eggs. Abrianna was hoping for a few quiet moments to herself, but it was not to be.

“You look quite beautiful today, Miss Cunningham.”

She felt certain he was only trying to entice her for some personal benefit. “I didn’t recall Aunt Miriam saying anything about your coming today, Mr. Welby. Are you lost?”

He chuckled. “Perhaps your aunt said nothing because she did not know.” His dark-eyed gaze traveled the full length of her and back in a flash. He smiled broadly, revealing perfect white teeth. Pity his ears were rather large, or he might have been handsome.

“Well, I suppose she would tell you to enjoy yourself. There’s plenty of food. She and my aunts will be returning here as soon as the egg hunt is concluded.”

“Surely they aren’t scouting for eggs themselves.”

“No, but they are overseeing the couples who are. You’d be amazed at how fast those couples can get lost.”

Mr. Welby gave an uproarious laugh. “I can very well imagine. I was once young myself and quite adept at disappearing with a beautiful young lady at my side.”

Abrianna said nothing and instead handed him a plate. “You might as well get started.”

“I’d just as soon remain here and talk with you. You are a charming young woman. How did you come to be with Mrs. Madison and the others?”

“It’s a tale of great sadness. My folks died. At least my mother did. We were never sure about my father, but since he never showed back up, we’re pretty sure he died, too. Of course,” she said, growing thoughtful, “I’ve often wondered if he might have been struck with amnesia. Are you familiar with that term?” She didn’t wait for him to answer.

“My father was a man of many trades, and I think it is possible that he was wounded in a terrible accident and perhaps suffered a blow to the head, only to forget everything. I suppose we shall never know.” She shrugged and placed the plate back on the table.

“And you came to live with the old ladies because he left?”

“No. My mother grew ill. She knew it wasn’t boding well for her, and she knew these ladies were good, godly women. They attended church together, you see. Before Mother died . . .” Abrianna giggled. “Of course it was before she died. It would be most impossible to do it afterwards. Honestly, I have a terrible habit of making such a statement, and yet I know it to be completely preposterous.” She shrugged and continued. “Anyway, my mother persuaded the ladies to care for me. Of course they had no idea what they were in for,” she said, shaking her head. “My hair should have warned them, for even then it was red.”

“And a lovely shade it is. Like burnt copper or perhaps cinnamon.”

“Be that as it may, it’s not exactly a color that most women desire.”

“I can’t imagine why not,” Mr. Welby said in his appealing manner. “It suits you well. The freckles, too.”

Abrianna wasn’t sure why, but her hand went automatically to the bridge of her nose. She’d never liked her freckles. Other young ladies had beautiful milky skin. Even Lenore’s olive coloring was free from such blemishes, and she often brought Abrianna jars of cream that were designed to bleach out just such marring features.

Mr. Welby reached out and took hold of her hand and lowered her arm. “You needn’t be ashamed of them. They only serve to enhance your beauty.”

Abrianna wasn’t used to such flattery. She felt her cheeks flush hot and turned away. “If you aren’t hungry, we have cider and tea to drink. Aunt Miriam tried to get in her regular shipment of lemons, but something happened to delay them.”

Welby stepped closer, still holding her hand. “Miss Cunningham, I find you to be an absolute delight. Nay, I would venture to say I find you to be the most appealing woman I’ve yet to meet. You speak freely and are of obvious intelligence and great imagination. No doubt you are well-read and educated.”

“No doubt,” she agreed, pulling her hand from his grasp. “My aunts schooled me at home, and it was like having three taskmasters. Even so, I had a great love of learning and took to books and issues of faith quite easily. I’m afraid it’s other things like cooking and sewing that I’m not so good at.”

“Well, that is easily remedied.”

Abrianna fought to regain her composure. She tried to appear disinterested, but it was possible he had a secret to success that she knew nothing about. “And how is that?”

“By marrying well and having servants, of course.” He grinned and gave her a wink.

Goodness, but he is a most forward man. If Aunt Miriam saw his performance, she’d force his exit sooner rather than later. Desiring nothing more than to escape, Abrianna pointed to her approaching aunts.

“It would appear the egg search is over.” Abrianna stepped forward. “Mr. Welby decided to join us,” she told the three women. “I believe he wishes to speak with you.” She took that moment to hurry off in the direction of Wade’s wagon. At least there she might be able to escape notice.

Priam Welby watched the animated redhead make her departure. She had a fine figure, and the seed of an idea planted itself in his brain. He had originally hoped to catch her off guard at the party and trick her into giving him answers related to the old ladies. But now, a different plan formed.

“Mr. Welby, I’m surprised to see you here today,” Mrs. Madison commented. “You haven’t come to speak to me about selling my building again, have you?”

“Not at all.” He smiled. “I am here on more amorous endeavors.”

Mrs. Gibson perked up at this. “Oh, you’ve come to meet the young ladies.”

“Not exactly,” Priam said, looking back in the direction Abrianna had gone. “I’ve come to discuss the possibility of courting one particular young lady.”

Miriam Madison met his gaze without blinking. “And who might that be?”

“Why, your ward, Miss Cunningham. I find her delightful. In fact, I have been able to think of little else since making her acquaintance. If she is not otherwise promised to someone, I should very much like to woo her.”

“I see.” Mrs. Madison considered his proposal, but Priam could tell she wasn’t enthusiastic to agree. She continued to study him for several moments. “You are a man of how many years?”

“Eight and thirty,” he replied.

“And how is it that you are employed?”

“I built an import business from very little. I have nurtured the business over the years and now boast a sizable annual profit. I have a good standing in the community and donate regularly to the charities.”

“I see.” Mrs. Madison seemed to be thinking of what else to ask him when her sister chimed in.

“And what of your faith, Mr. Welby? Are you a man of God?”

“Are we not all of God?” he challenged. “Did God not create each of us?”

“Indeed,” Miss Holmes replied. “But how is it with your soul and God?”

Priam thought to continue toying with the woman but decided against it. If he could convince the ladies to let him court and possibly propose marriage to their ward, he would have a much easier time securing the Madison Building for himself. After all, he had it on good authority that Mrs. Madison’s ward was to one day inherit her estate.

“It is well with my soul and God,” he lied. “Very well. I was raised in a Christian home and heard the Scriptures read to me daily as a young man.” At least that much was true. “As I grew into adulthood, my parents encouraged me to attend seminary back east. I did so and soon realized that God was not calling me to the ministry, but rather to business. For you see, God needs businessmen on His side as well as preachers.”

Although his remark might be perceived as flippant, Priam didn’t expect them to question him. These ladies weren’t the quickest of mind nor the most knowledgeable despite their schooling of Abrianna. No, they were women, and as such were weak and inconsistent. They would be easily swayed once he convinced Abrianna that he loved her and that she loved him. It would take some work on his part, but it would be a pleasant enough task. Abrianna might even make a very enticing companion. Who could say?

“Mr. Welby, we will discuss this matter, and of course we’ll consult with Abrianna. We will pray on your proposal and let you know whether we can approve your request.”

“And when might you have an answer for me?”

“After we speak to Abrianna and pray,” Mrs. Madison said in a tone that suggested he should have known from her earlier statement.

“Very well. I will check back with you.” He gave a low sweeping bow. “Until then, my dear ladies.”