Aaron nodded. "It's for the best pa," he said. "Mom doesn't want anything bad happening to you."
"I know. I know," Gabe said. "She's a treasure. And I know what a lucky man I am. Don't doubt it. But hell, son. It's so hard to be reduced to this," Gabe said, his face reddening, and moisture glazing his eyes.
Aaron knew his father was too proud to cry. He felt his throat tighten at the sight of his Gabe trying to restrain himself.
"Maybe the Lord is trying to tell me something," Gabe said softly.
Aaron knew his father had always been a religious man. He recalled how his father had insisted on Aaron attending church. As a young man Aaron had resisted, but had eventually realized the importance of faith.
"He does give us the signs in ways we don't always understand," Aaron said.
Gabe nodded. "Well he certainly got my attention on this occasion."
Aaron breathed out quietly. "So, what is happening with your clients. If you haven't been working much, who's been picking up the slack."
Gabe looked directly at Aaron. "That's the thing. There is no other lawyer in town. We're it," he said.
Aaron stiffened. "What do mean, "we're it"?" he asked.
"Just what I say. There is no other lawyer in town. With me out of service the work's been piling up," Gabe said. "I've got land and property deals that haven't been finalized, and a host of other problems folks in Sweetheart Falls just need attending to."
Aaron sat back on the sofa and felt a weight settle upon him. The question he knew would have to be asked hung between his father and himself. He wasn't sure he could get the words out of his mouth, but he forced himself to speak.
"So where do I fit into all this?"
Gabe frowned. "I'd have thought that was obvious, Aaron. Your place is here in Sweetheart Falls; being the lawyer; just like we agreed before you went East."
Aaron sucked in a breath through tight nostrils. His lips tightened and he found he couldn't swallow.
"I thought we had an agreement, Aaron," his father said in a voice that had momentarily regained it's old strength. "I guess now all of that has been taking out of our hands a bit. But your promise to me, and your ma, still stands. Doesn't it?"
Aaron was silent for a moment. Thoughts raced through his mind. He realized that a part of him had been hoping that he could just come back to Sweetheart Falls and reason with his parents; convince them that his promise had been made under other circumstances; that now it no longer applied; that he had a life he could build for himself back East.
But he knew none of that would wash now.
"I know I made a promise pa. And I know how much that means to you and ma. And I don't want to let you both down. But you have to understand. There is so much opportunity back East. Now that I've been there, and seen it all...Well, you have no idea..." Aaron's voice tightened as he saw the disapproving look on his father's face.
Gabe wasn't convinced now, nor would he ever be. Aaron knew that.
Aaron saw a subtle change in the color of his father's increasingly pale face and knew he had made a mistake.
Gabe coughed lightly and swallowed hard. "I thought you might say something like that. Are you saying that this is just a visit and that you are leaving?"
"That's not what I'm saying. I just need a little time to think about it all," Aaron said.
"You see that's the thing son," Gabe said. His voice was soft now and had a quiet and gentle tone. All the fight seemed to have gone out of him suddenly. "I'm not sure how much time I have."
"What do you mean? You are getting better. Aren't you?" Aaron asked.
Gabe lowered his head. "All I'll say is that I'm hanging on, Aaron." His voice was a hoarse whisper. Aaron felt a stab of concern and leaned forward. "You want me to call ma?"
Gabe raised a hand. "No. Don't worry her, son. I'm sure she's having a grand old time with Emily. I don't want to cause concern to your mother. She's gone to so much trouble to make sure your visit is a happy one."
Aaron knew his father was also referring to the potential match his mother had arranged. "So you know about her matchmaking?"
Gabe smiled. "Of course I do. Your mother has talked about nothing else for the last few weeks."
"It was sure nice of her to ask me before going ahead and trying get me married off," Aaron said quickly, trying to contain the edge of criticism in his voice.
"Your mother means well, Aaron. She's only doing what she's always done. Trying to do the best for you."
"I know pa. But to go and find me someone to marry, when I haven't even met the girl...Well that's going beyond doing what's best for me. It's bordering on the illegal!"
Gabe laughed. "Your mother sure has picked out a beauty for you, son."
"Really? Have you met her?" Aaron asked, trying to contain the curiosity in his voice.
Gabe leaned back in the chair and smiled weakly. "I best be careful, son. I'm not sure your mother would be too pleased if I told you too much about Rachel," he said.
Aaron leaned forward. "But have you met her?" he insisted.
Gabe's brows furrowed. "Well, I have met her sisters, during the course of my business."
"What did you think of them?" Aaron asked.
Gabe took a deep breath. "They seemed like fine young ladies, if you ask me. Her older sisters have both gotten hitched this year. By all accounts the marriages are good ones."
Aaron flinched at his father's use of the word "hitched". It was just like him to be so plain speaking at times, even if it did mean he would step on people's toes in the process. Aaron hoped that not too much of that family trait had rubbed off on him.
"Who did they marry?"
"One sister married an ex lawman. The other the biggest rancher in the area."
Aaron nodded. He was impressed. They both sounded like solid matches. He wondered, for a moment, if he would be next in line. He quickly pushed that thought away.
Gabe coughed slightly. "Anyway I best not tell you any more. Your mother will have my guts for garters if I steal her thunder."
Aaron had to grudgingly admit to himself that his father had made him curious, in spite of himself. The three sisters sounded like an interesting group of women. Obviously they were strong characters. Any woman who lived out here in the West had to be, otherwise they wouldn't survive long. His own mother was a testament to the qualities needed to build a life worth having out here, he thought.
He needed to know more about just what his mother had arranged. Knowing Lily she wouldn't have done anything unless she really thought it would be in her son's best interest.
Aaron heard the thumps of noises from upstairs and Emily's excited squeals. He looked up at the ceiling. "I best be getting those bags upstairs," he said to his father.
Gabe smiled. "I guess you better. Sounds like trouble upstairs."
Aaron laughed. He reached over and laid a hand on his father's knee. "It's real good to see you pa. You take it easy. We'll speak later. Okay?"
Gabe smiled warmly at his son. Aaron could see the emotion clouding his eyes. "Sure son. It's good to have you home."
Aaron stood and went to the hall. He lifted the bags and stood at he foot of the stairs. As he started to make his way up, he asked himself whether he thought it was indeed good to be back home.
When the answer came, he felt a rush of confused emotions.
The truth was, he wasn't sure it was good to be back home. Not yet, anyway.
CHAPTER FIVE
Rachel went up to her room after the evening meal. She needed some time on her own after her attempt to win the approval of her closest family members. She wasn't sure she had entirely succeeded. Everyone seemed positive about her prospective marriage, but she guessed they were all correct in reserving their judgment until after the meeting at Hettie's house tomorrow.
Just thinking about meeting Aaron made her heart leap. He had been filling her thoughts for days. Now that she had shared her news with her sisters, she was beginning to worry that per
haps this whole arrangement would turn out like her unfortunate encounter with Mr. Brook.
Rachel shuddered when she thought of him. How could he have deceived her so. Everyone else had seen that his character was not good, that he'd had ulterior motives. How had she missed that so completely? Had she been so desperate to follow in her sisters' footsteps that she had almost been willing to make a fool of herself?
In order to calm herself she did what she had done on each of the last few evenings. In the privacy of her room she took out the letters which Hettie had provided her with; the letters about Aaron.
She settled down on the wide, comfortable bed, lying back and resting her head on the pillow. By the lamplight she unfolded one of the letters.
The letter had been written by Aaron's mother Lily and sent to Hettie. It was a request for help in finding her son a suitable wife. Hettie had been more than happy to oblige and had quickly alerted Rachel to Aaron's apparent interest.
Rachel remembered going to Hettie's house and the excitement she had felt when Hettie had presented her with the letter. The way Hettie had handed the envelope to Rachel you would have thought she was passing over a scared object. With an admonition to carefully consider the contents, Rachel had been allowed to take the letter home. She still remembered the thrill she had felt when she had read it for the first time. It was as if a new world had opened up for her, and she'd had to contain her enthusiasm, in case her sister Martha noticed the change in her.
Now here, on the bed, she reread the letter, savoring the possibilities it held for her life.
Dear Hettie,
I am writing to you since I believe you to be the person best placed to help me find a satisfactory solution to a problem regarding matrimony.
It has come to my attention that you have taken it upon yourself to address the shortage of married couples in Sweetheart Falls. I hear you have already had success in your endeavours with some very notable marriages taking place in recent months.
I wish to avail myself of the services of your Matrimonial Society.
The issue at hand is that of my wish to find a suitable wife for my dear son, Aaron, who has, at present out East, completed his studies as a lawyer. He is soon to return home. When he does I would be most pleased if you would be in a position to introduce him to a potential bride.
Put in such plain terms, that statement seems rather unusual. However, I have it on good authority that if there is anyone in Sweetheart Falls who could achieve this, it is you Hettie. Your reputation is beyond reproach in this matter.
With regard to my son, Aaron, I can supply you with some details. He is twenty five years of age and has been out East training in the law. His father is a lawyer. I know you have already had cause to avail yourself of his services. He speaks very highly of you.
Aaron is a fine young man, even if I obviously speak with a completely biased opinion. He has always had a kindly, stable and responsible character. He has never been in any form of trouble, even as a young man. He is diligent in his studies, a churchgoer of long standing, and a valued part of our family.
I believe he would make a very fine husband for a suitable young woman. With the stability of his law training he will be a man of means and be able to support a family, which in these uncertain times, we all agree is a highly desirable quality.
But the most important thing about Aaron is that he is a loyal man, who keeps his word in all things. If he agrees to do something he will do it, even if it inconveniences him. This is an aspect of character which he has taken from his father. You can be sure that if he takes on a wife, then he will go to whatever lengths are needed to provide for his wife and children and to ensure that they are safe and secure and that they have a loving family home.
More than this I cannot tell you at this moment. I do hope that you look kindly upon this request and that you may be able to accommodate my wishes.
I have enclosed a photographic likeness. Although it was taken four years ago I believe it shows very well that my son is someone who any young woman would be more than happy to have by her side.
I look forward to hearing from you at your earliest convenience.
Lily Caldigate
Rachel slipped out the small, cardboard likeness from behind the letter and gazed at it, not for the first time.
It showed a tall, extremely handsome young man, with dark hair, even features, wide shoulders. He was immaculately dressed in a suit. He posed casually in a photographer's studio. His eyes were bright and had a mischievous quality to them. His nose was thin and his mouth creased to one side in a most attractive slight smile.
Rachel sighed as she looked at the image. Her heart leapt every time she looked at the image. She could only imagine the deep, slow voice that would come out of the strong looking frame.
She placed the letter and photo down on the bed and closed her eyes. She was so excited at the prospect of meeting him, she wasn't sure she'd be able to sleep at all. But she knew she would have to be at her best. In many ways tomorrow was going to be one of the most important days of her life. She had to be rested.
A shudder of panic rose within her when she considered what she should wear to meet him. It would have to be something that would make such a strong impact upon him that he would be unable to resist her. At the same time there would be considerations of propriety. Hettie would not want Rachel to look anything but elegant and refined; in other words, a lady.
Rachel decided she would have to consult her sister, Martha. She would know just what Rachel should wear so that her prospective husband, Mr Aaron Caldigate would be absolutely and completely smitten with her at first sight.
And after all, that was what she really wanted. Wasn't it?
With a smile, Rachel nodded. Yes. That was exactly what she wanted. Love at first sight!
CHAPTER SIX
Aaron's mother laid out a fine spread later in the day and they all tucked into a hearty meal. The food Aaron and Emily had eaten in the journey had been so poor that it was a welcome relief to enjoy some real home cooking. The conversation was kept light and happy which was just as well because Emily was still a bundle of energy that could hardly be contained. She was just so happy to be in an exciting new place. Aaron felt a tinge of jealousy at Emily's innocent joy at being in Sweetheart Falls.
After the meal Gabe went outside to the garden with Emily. From the parlor Aaron could hear the happy sounds of his father playing with his granddaughter. Aaron's mother brought in some coffee and sat down next to him on the sofa.
Lily looked at her son with an intent expression.
"So, Aaron. How does it really feel to be home?"
Aaron lowered his head. "I don't know ma. I already told pa, that it's all a bit strange. I feel like I've been a million miles away."
His mother reached over and moved a stray dark hair away from Aaron's wide forehead. "I know it must feel so different from what you've been used to these past few years. But this is your home, son."
Aaron looked at her, his brows furrowing. "Is it ma? Is it really my home?"
"Of course it is son. It's where you belong. It always has been. And it always will be."
"I'm not so sure, ma. Things were so exciting back East. You don't know what it's like."
"Oh I do, Aaron. Don't forget I have family back East. I know how life can be. I also know how hard things can get back there if you don't have a solid foundation for your life."
Aaron recalled the difficulties his mother's brother had fallen into when his business had failed. Things had gone real bad for them in New York. They were still struggling. There had been talk in the past year of them coming out West to make a fresh start.
"Is that what you think I need, ma? A solid foundation?"
"It's what your father has. Or had." She said the last words with a tinge of regret that made Aaron's heart sink.
"But I can't be like he is, ma. I'm not like him," Aaron said.
"Of course you're not the same. I know th
at. But you share the same values. You both know what's important in life. I know you're not willing to give up everything we taught you," she said.
"But I can make a difference back East. I'm not sure I can fit in here."
"Sweetheart Falls is a wonderful little town, Aaron. There's more to life here than you think."
"It's just so small."
"But the people here have a big heart. And they want to make this a great place for everyone to live. This is a good place for families."
"Speaking of families, ma. I suppose I can't avoid the subject of your matchmaking for much longer," he said.
Lily placed her cup down on the table and placed her hands in her lap. "Well, now that we've brought up the subject, what do you want to know about Rachel?"
Aaron rolled his eyes. "What I want to know is what possessed you to think you could arrange a marriage for me when you don't even know if I want to stay in Sweetheart Falls."
"I'm your mother, Aaron. If I can't look after your best interests, who can?"
"And you think what I need is a wife?"
"Every young man needs a wife, sooner rather than later"
"Ma. I only just qualified as a lawyer. I've barely made my start in life. You're asking me to settle down in a place I'm not sure I want to be in, with a wife I haven't even met."
Lily smiled. "I know it all sounds a little, shall we say, rushed."
"Rushed? That's putting it mildly. You write to me and tell me I need to come home 'cause pa's unwell. At the same time you ask me to bring Emily. Then you you tell me that you've found me a local girl who'd make a perfect wife. I'd say that all sounds a bit hasty," Aaron said, his voice rising. He took a deep breath and calmed himself.
"There have been others involved in the choice of your future wife," Lily said firmly.
Aaron stiffened. "Future wife! Who said I'm definitely going to marry her. Or anyone for that matter. And who are these others you're talking about?"
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