His Errant Educator (Willamette Wives Book 3)

by Maggie Ryan

  Chapter Thirteen

  Roger wasn't sure when the day had gone wrong. When he'd proposed, Teresa had made him the happiest man on God's earth. While he hadn't wanted to have to discipline her, especially immediately after they became engaged, she'd left him no choice. Though she'd seemed truly surprised, despite his repeated warnings of what would happen if she continued to misbehave, after her spanking that afternoon she'd been so sweet, so respectful as she made her apology. Her smile had caused his breath to catch every time she graced him with a glance. And yet, ever since they'd all come for dinner, he'd sensed something was wrong. He'd even asked her several times if she was all right, receiving a positive response each time. Though he didn't understand what had happened, it was time to clear the air.

  "All right, Tessa, I'm going to ask you one more time, what is wrong?"

  "You should know!" she exclaimed.

  "Well, I don't, and I can't read your mind, so, honey, you are going to need to tell me what is bothering you."

  "This," she said, waving her hand to indicate the room.

  "The school?" he asked, puzzled. "Why on earth would the school upset you? Did the committee meet and decide to hire someone else?" He was shocked when her response was to burst into tears. Tightening his arms around her, he said, "Oh, sweetheart, talk to me."

  "You don't… want… I can't… it's not fair… I won't… bears… my dream… chickens… Bes… Bessie… teach…" Her words were completely undecipherable with her sobbing as she collapsed against him, burying her face in his coat.

  "Shh, it's going to be all right. Tessa, honey, please don't cry," he said, his tone soothing as he rocked her gently in his arms. "I promise, whatever it is, we will work it out." When she continued to cry, he just held her, stroking her back, letting her pour out her emotion without restraint. Whatever bee had gotten stuck in her bonnet had obviously sunk its stinger into her heart if the flood of tears was any indication. It was several minutes before she even began to calm, and a few more until the sobs were replaced with an occasional sniffle. Shifting her a bit, he dug his handkerchief from his pants pocket and held it to her face.

  "Blow, honey." When she turned her face away, shaking her head against his chest, he repeated his request. "Honey, blow for me." She reluctantly obeyed and he could feel her tremble when he then bent to kiss the tears from her wet cheeks. "Can you talk to me now?"

  "You… you won't get mad?"

  "Tessa, I wasn't mad before." When her head began to shake, he shook his own. "I was surprised and disappointed but only because of your tone. I didn't even know a decision had been made. I understand that you must be terribly disappointed, but it's not the end of the world. Though I think the committee made a mistake. I can't possibly imagine anyone else wanting the job as much as you do."

  "What? No, I mean yes I want the job but I haven't heard about it yet."

  "You haven't? I thought maybe they came by before dinner."

  "No, no one came by."

  "Then why are you so upset?"

  "Why did you lie to me?"

  Of anything she could have said, he never expected that question. "I have never lied to you, Tessa, and I promise I never will. Why do you think I lied? About what?"

  "You listened to me go on and on about teaching and yet you… you knew I'd never be a teacher! That was lying!"

  Roger couldn't wrap his mind around what he was hearing. Hadn't she just said she hadn't heard from the committee? "Honey, I have no idea what you are talking about."

  "That's because you aren't listening!"

  "Calm down. I am listening and will always listen to what you say but I would greatly appreciate it if you'd talk with a lower voice and with respect. If this isn't about being a teacher, what on earth is it about?"

  "It is about teaching," she said, only to shake her head. "Even if the committee chooses me, I can't possibly accept."

  "Why on earth not?"

  "Haven't you been paying attention? Because you won't let me ask Pa about his room!"

  Roger wondered if he was just completely dense or if all women spoke in riddles that were proving to be totally unsolvable. None of his partners had mentioned that holding conversations with their wives could be as baffling as trying to converse with one of their bulls. Still, there was absolutely no doubt that Teresa was very upset. Forcing himself to take a deep breath, he gave her a hug and bent to kiss the top of her head.

  "Honey, as much as I love you and enjoy spending time with your family, I want us to have our own home. I admit, I'm selfish but I want you to myself… well, until we are blessed with children of our own. Don't you want that as well?" She nodded but her sigh said otherwise. "Why is it so important for you to live with your family even after we marry? We won't be that far away and I promise, you can visit and they will always be welcome at our home."

  "It's not that."

  He swallowed hard. Could she be afraid of living with him? Surely not, but then again, he had already admitted to himself that he was completely baffled. "Is it me? You don't want to live with me?"

  "Of course I do," she said. "I'm going to be your wife… that is if you still want me."

  He pulled her closer. "Tessa, I will always want you. I will thank God every day for the rest of my life that he's blessed me with you as my wife."

  "Then why can't I be a teacher and a wife?"

  "Who said you couldn't?"

  "You did…" She paused and shook her head. "I mean, you might not have said it but if we build a cabin way out on the ranch, you might as well have."

  "Honey, you aren't making any sense. Tell me exactly why you have that impression."

  "How am I supposed to get to school every day? The ranch is miles and miles away…"

  "Tessa, the ranch isn't that far. You'll likely have students who live farther than you will. And, honey, that's what horses are for."

  "Horses?"

  "Yes, you know, the animals you see in town every day?" he teased as she looked up at him as if totally confused. "It's not that far but I'm afraid it is a bit too far to walk."

  "You mean I can teach?"

  "Of course you can."

  "Oh… but I-I don't ride very well."

  "Are you frightened of horses? You seem to enjoy riding with me."

  "I do but you are really riding. I'm just leaning against you."

  He hugged her again. "I really enjoy that and don't fret, after a few lessons, you'll be a real cowgirl."

  "You'll teach me?"

  Roger smiled, cupping her cheek with his palm. "Of course I will. You're going to be a rancher's wife. You'll need to know how to ride. There are a lot of trails I can't wait to take you on up in the mountains." He bent to kiss her cheek and then whispered in her ear. "I can't wait to make love to you out beneath the blue sky among the wildflowers. You'll be the prettiest blossom of them all."

  "Roger!" she said with a gasp, followed by a giggle. "I do love flowers, and I think I'd like that too."

  What he liked was that she was smiling again and the pain in her eyes had been replaced with a gleam that showed her joy. Yes, he had untold plans for lessons he'd be teaching his bride. She might have her students but he would be her only teacher. He grinned, thinking that if one of her pupils failed a lesson, they'd have to face their parents—but their teacher, well, she'd be taught that spankings weren't only given when she was naughty. No, she would learn that pleasure could be increased with a husband's hand applied to her naked bottom. With the jerk of his cock, he forced his thoughts from pleasant daydreams.

  "So I take it you'll be more excited the next time we start planning our cabin?" he said.

  "Oh yes, but I think the meadow you talked about sounds perfect. When can we go see it?"

  "As soon as you want. Once you approve the location, we'll start building. Now, give me a proper kiss and then we'd better get back. I promised your pa I wouldn't keep you out late."

  She eagerly lifted her face and when he pressed his mouth to her
s, she gave herself to him, allowing him to press his tongue between her lips and moaning when he swept it over hers. She blushed when he finally released her. Smiling, he kissed the tip of her nose. "I love you, Tessa."

  "Oh, Roger, I love you so very much. I'm sorry I was such a…" she paused and giggled.

  "A what? A naughty girl?" he suggested with his own grin.

  "I was going to say a stubborn mule."

  "Ah, well, you are the prettiest mule I've ever seen." He kissed her again and then helped her off his lap. Standing, he took her into his arms, turning her so that her back was pressed to his chest as they faced the front of the room. "I know this is your dream and I will do everything in my power to see it come true. This town will be lucky to have you as a teacher."

  "You really think so?"

  "Remember, I never say things I don't mean. The only thing I want is that, when you are standing up there introducing yourself, it will be as Mrs. Morrison."

  "I'd like that," she said, turning in his arms and lifting up on her tiptoes to kiss his cheek. "I thought… well, that you brought me here to spank me."

  "Honey, I don't want you to think that any time we have a disagreement you are going to be spanked. That is reserved for when you truly are naughty."

  "Even after we're married?"

  "Yes, Tessa. From the moment you accepted my proposal, I became responsible for you. It is my honor to care for you and I'll do my best to be worthy of you."

  "I-I like that but, Roger, I don't like being spanked or put in the corner."

  "Then, honey, all you have to do is be my good girl." He pulled her close and dropped a hand to her rear, giving it a little pat. "And just to be sure we are clear, this little bottom will be spanked…" he paused and kissed the tip of her nose again before adding, "and this adorable little nose will be touching the wall when your behavior warrants it, and do you know why?"

  She shook her head.

  "Because I love you and want you to be safe, happy and the best person you can be. All I ask is that you trust me to know what is best for both of us. Do you think you can do that?"

  "I-I'll try but I still won't like it."

  He laughed and this time kissed her properly, not letting her go until he felt her relax against him.

  "One day I'll show you that not all spankings are given because you were naughty." At her look of disbelief, he grinned. "Like I said, all you have to do is trust me." After she assured him she did, he led her from the school.

  Once back on the porch, he said, "Go to bed and get some sleep. I plan on dancing with you all night. I figure if I never let you out of my arms, no one will get a chance to steal you from me."

  She laughed, bending to kiss his cheek as he was standing on the bottom step and she on the porch. "I don't think you have to worry as I don't plan on leaving your side. Good night, Roger."

  He waited until she was safely inside, not the least bit surprised to hear her father asking if she was all right a moment before the door closed. He began to walk back towards the Williams' home and was startled when a shadow moved, only relaxing when he recognized the person.

  "Is everything all right?" Matthew asked. "I didn't mean to upset your girl. I was only teasing."

  "I think she knew that," Roger said. "It was just a misunderstanding. We talked and she was just mad because she believed that living on the ranch would keep her from being a teacher."

  "Why didn't she just say that upstairs?"

  "Because she's a woman, I guess," Roger said and then chuckled. "Unlike some people I know, she doesn't just blurt out whatever pops into her head."

  "Ha-ha," Matthew said. "I'm glad you worked it out. Despite what you might think, I do want you to be happy."

  "Even if a woman is involved?" Roger quipped, slapping a hand over his heart and pretending to swoon.

  Matthew slapped him on the back. "Don't be an ass."

  Roger laughed and shook his head. "What's with asses and mules?"

  Matthew didn't answer and the two men walked the remaining distance in comfortable silence until they reached the house, where Matthew reached out, placing his hand on Roger's arm. "You know I really wish you the best, right? I might joke around but anything you need… or if you just need an ear, you can talk to me."

  "I never doubted it for a second," Roger said with a nod. "We've come a long way together and one day, my friend, it will be my turn to tease you when you look up and some filly steals your breath."

  "Never happen," Matthew said. Both men were chuckling as they climbed the steps and entered the house.

  Chapter Fourteen

  Dust motes danced upon the air as dozens of feet formed the intricate patterns, while bows flew over the strings of the dueling fiddles played by the Owen brothers. Mr. Parker stood between the men, calling out the steps to the groups of dancers, his booted foot tapping along with the beat. Teresa laughed as Roger twirled her about before passing her off to Wyatt who grabbed her hand, twirling her again. The four making up their group were panting when the last note was heard and then clapped to show their appreciation of the musicians' talent.

  "Whew, dancing sure makes a man thirsty," Roger said, taking claim of his bride-to-be by wrapping his arm about her waist. "Would you like some lemonade, Tessa?"

  "Yes, please. Perhaps we should sit out a few…"

  "Nope, I promised I'd dance every dance," he said, bending to give her cheek a kiss, drawing both a gasp and a small smile.

  "Roger, what will people think?"

  "They'll know that you are mine," he said, unconcerned about possible gossip. "I'll be right back."

  Teresa watched him walk away, her cheeks flushed a bit brighter than warranted by the fast-paced dance. He was so very handsome even with his dark hair a little unruly from the ducking and weaving required in the square-dance. His eyes had seemed to sparkle in the light from the many lanterns hung around the large barn, but it was his smile that made her heart melt.

  The second group of four, consisting of Charity, James, Anna, and Richard, who had danced adjacent to Teresa's group, welcomed Barbara as she joined them.

  "Why are you limping?" Anna asked as Barbara grimaced.

  "All of you looked wonderful in that dance," Barbara said, moving to stand beside her sister. "So far all my partners seem to have two left feet."

  Charity smiled and patted her arm. "Maybe it's because they are so enthralled by your beauty that they can't remember the steps."

  Barbara giggled and shook her head. "I promise that if I took off my shoes, my feet would definitely not be a pretty sight." Everyone laughed as she gave an exaggerated grimace.

  "That's a sound I love to hear," Benjamin said as he and Catherine joined them. "Your laughter is more entertaining than the music. Are my girls having a good time?"

  "I'm having a wonderful time," Teresa said, "are you?"

  "How could I not be?" Benjamin said, giving Catherine a smile. "I've got the perfect partner who doesn't seem to mind if I miss a step or two."

  "Ben," Catherine said with a smile. "You lead so well that I don't even have to think about what I'm doing. I just am allowed to have fun."

  "Ma, maybe you should take a break," Agatha suggested. "You look a bit tired."

  "I'm fine," Catherine said. "I don't want to miss a thing. It's been far too long since I've had such fun."

  "I'm so glad the town decided to hold a dance," Anna said after all their men followed Roger to obtain some refreshment as well. "I agree with Catherine. I can't remember the last time I've had this much fun."

  "I don't even recognize everyone," Charity said. "I know the town is growing, but goodness, there must be over a dozen new faces here tonight."

  The dance was being held in the Owens' barn just outside of town. Richard had pulled the wagon into the field alongside dozens of others. Those who had ridden on horseback had put their mounts into the corral, where fresh water and feed had been provided by their hosts. Inside the barn, long tables had been placed
against one wall, where women had set various dishes to be shared by all. A large bowl had been filled with lemonade but if one was observant, they could catch many a man nipping at flasks pulled from trouser pockets as well.

  There were children dashing about, squealing in joy as papas swung them into the air during a dance. The night was filled with the sound of gaiety as the townspeople enjoyed a much needed break from the isolation caused by the snow and ice that had covered the valley for the past few months.

  "Catherine, I need some of that delicious cobbler before we dance again. Shall we?" Benjamin asked, slipping his arm around her waist at her nod. "And maybe you can cut me just a tiny sliver of that cake."

  "Of course," Catherine said with a smile, "just a sliver?"

  "Well, maybe a bit more. After all, I need sustenance so I can escort the belle of the ball around the floor again. It would be far too embarrassing to swoon in the middle of a do-si-do."

  They listened to Catherine's tinkling laughter as the older couple moved away towards the refreshment table.

  "It's wonderful to see everyone having such a good time," Anna said, giving Agatha's hip a bump with her own. "Your ma seems to be having a wonderful time."

  Agatha didn't even have to turn her head to find her mother. She'd kept her eyes on Catherine for most of the evening. Presently, her mother was slicing the cake and handing the plate to Mr. Goldman. He bent down to say something to her, causing her to laugh again, her cheeks flushing. When he offered her a bite of the cake, she opened her mouth and bent forward, accepting the offering from the tines of the fork he held.

  "Ah, that's so sweet," Charity said, also watching the exchange. "It is so nice seeing her have a good time. She never smiled much when on the trail."

  "No, she didn't," Anna agreed.