The Forgiving Heart (The Heart of Minnesota Book 1)

by Riker, Becky

  Louisa shuddered, “I believe you are safe here, but I am glad she didn't tell him.”

  Karlijna agreed, “I just can't think what Mr. Beauchamp would want from me after all this time. He cannot still be upset that I would not have his letter published.”

  Karlijna wrote to Michael about the letter from Ingrid and then forgot about it.

  A week later, on the morning of May eighth, Louisa called out to Karlijna who was in the yard trying to capture a loose chicken.

  “Karlijna, come in. Get John and come in. The President is going to speak at eight o'clock.”

  Karlijna dropped what she was doing and yelled to John before running inside.

  The three sat at the table, listening to the general announcements, wondering what the President would say soon. They did not have long to wait.

  “This is a solemn but a glorious hour,” Truman’s voice crossed the radio lines, clear despite the occasional crackle. “I only wish that Franklin D. Roosevelt had lived to witness this day. General Eisenhower informs me that the forces of Germany have surrendered to the United Nations. The flags of freedom fly over all Europe.”

  The trio sat in silence, tears coursing down every cheek. They listened to the rest of the announcement. In unison, they bowed their heads together as President Truman ended.

  “Thank you, Father,” John alone was able to choke out the words, “thank you.”

  “Amen,” the women's voices were mere whispers.

  A cry sounded from the downstairs bedroom, “Rosie doesn't want to be left out,” Karlijna laughed through her tears.

  Louisa stood to get her, “I'd better go tell her then.”

  John and Karlijna went outside to do their chores. Life on the farm did not allow for time to sit and rejoice over the victory. They must be active in their happiness.

  Karlijna had mostly forgotten the content of Ingrid's letter in that it did not cross her mind more than twice in the two weeks following its arrival. However, a letter from Regina brought it back to her attention.

  Dear Karlijna, May 2, 1945

  I am praising God that, now that Hitler is dead, this war cannot last much longer. I will tell you that as word comes to us about what people have suffered I hurt for you, my friend, knowing that you have been through the pits of hell.

  I am writing to tell you of a strange visitor we had a few weeks ago. It was a young man looking for you. He refused to give us his name or what he wanted of you. He was a tall man and broad of build even if had not enough meat on his frame. There was something so familiar about him, but I don’t think I ever met him. His hair was cut very close to his head like yours was when we first met, and perhaps that was all that was familiar.

  I must confess he frightened me, though he was never hostile. It was his eyes that were so terrifying. They seemed to be looking straight through me – as though he could see my soul.

  I could not tell him where you were. He wore no uniform, so I do not know he was a soldier, but I was still not comfortable giving him your new name or where you are.

  The only clue I have is that he told me he got our name from a Frenchman for whom he works. It probably isn’t helpful to know that he spoke perfect German.

  I am sorry I didn't write sooner, but I didn't want to alarm you. I decided to tell you only after speaking to Ingrid and finding that he visited them as well.

  I do hope we did the right thing by refusing him. I will pray for your safety.

  Regina

  Karlijna's hand shook as she read. Who could be looking for her? She left her upstairs bedroom and entered the kitchen.

  “You look like you've seen a ghost,” Louisa said.

  “I think I have,” Karlijna admitted and handed the letter to Louisa.

  “This is in German,” Louisa studied it. “I'm not very good with German.”

  Karlijna took it and translated it for her.

  Louisa's face turned white, “Who do you think it is?”

  Karlijna couldn't dare to guess. She shook her head.

  Louisa leaned forward and clasped Karlijna's hands, “Do you think you are in danger?”

  “No,” Karlijna's eyes teared up. “I think I am safe here.”

  Karlijna sat still for a while longer then rose, “I must write a letter.”

  Mr. Sodergaard, May 16, 1945

  I am writing to you in order to acquire the address of your business associate, Armand Beauchamp. I have reason to believe he is looking for me. I do not wish, at this time for him to have my whereabouts, so please do not forward this request to him.

  I believe I ask little, sir.

  Karlijna,

  After finishing that letter she wrote to Michael and told him about her letters from Ingrid and Regina. She did not tell him her suspicions because she did not wish to cause him any concern, but it was nearly impossible for her to not think about it.

  Michael responded as quickly as he could.

  Dearest Karlijna, May 23, 1945

  I am glad Regina and Ingrid refused to give your location to that man. I can't imagine what he would want with you, but I feel better knowing he cannot find you.

  You asked how my progress is coming with my leg. I must tell you that the doctor says he never expected such a recovery. I still have ugly scars to remind me of what I went through, and I have a limp, but I can get from one place to another without my cane. When I am tire I find it is better to use it, but that is a far cry better than the crutches I was told I would be using the rest of my life. I am grateful to God for healing me and to you for pushing me.

  Sam was in London the day of the announcement. He said it was a crazy time – people were dancing in the streets. I, of course, am located further north and more secluded. Nonetheless, it was a happy day here.

  I have saved the best news for last. I am coming home. My last day is June first. I will fly to New York on the third. I have to go to Virginia for two to three weeks. Then, I will come home.

  I am looking forward to seeing everyone. I am most needing to see you.

  Love,

  Michael

  Karlijna could hardly believe what she had read. It had been nearly a year and a half since she had seen Michael. The news she had been waiting so long to hear now terrified her. What would he think when he saw her.

  She looked so different now. Maybe he would not care for the way she wore her hair – she had no choice in the matter before, but now she did. She had also put on weight, but she didn't think that would be a problem since it had given her some curves that her skeletal frame had not allowed.

  “Good news?” Louisa came in from feeding the chickens.

  “He is coming home,” Karlijna looked up as she voiced the words for the first time.

  “Michael?” Louisa clasped her hands together, “Michael is coming home?”

  Karlijna looked down at the paper.

  “Yes, he is flying to New York on the – no,” she stopped herself, “he flew to New York yesterday. He is probably on his way to Virginia now.”

  Louisa took the baby out of her sling and handed Rosie to Karlijna, “I've got to tell John.”

  Karlijna smiled down at the little face, “Do you care that your cousin is coming home? Probably not. But, little baby, I am so happy.”

  Karlijna stood up and began dancing around the kitchen with the little girl. Rosie responded by spitting up all over the floor.

  Mr. Sodergaard's letter arrived the following day.

  Miss Bergstrom, May 22, 1945

  I have enclosed Armand's address. I hope it helps you find what you are looking for.

  I would give you anything you asked, and it still would not be enough to absolve me of my crime. I have learned there is only one thing that can heal our guilt and that is the blood of Jesus.

  I will tell you that your mercy toward my sister and me is the thing that made me seek God. Though Helga has not discovered her need for him, I continue to pray. She will not speak to me and has refused any financial aid –
telling people I have been unwilling to help her. I am afraid I see from the other side what gossip can do.

  If there is anything I can do for you be sure to ask.

  Your brother in Christ,

  Roald Sodergaard

  The joy Karlijna felt for her former boss was tainted with the fear of what had happened to him at his own sister's hand. She hoped it was not serious and stopped to pray for Miss Sodergaard's heart. Then she wrote to Mr. Beauchamp.

  Dear Sir, June 5, 1945

  I have received reports from my friends in Sweden that you have sent someone to find me. As they fear for my safety, and as he would not give a name, they refused to give any information to this individual.

  I am going to trust you enough to send this letter to you, but I ask that you not give away my whereabouts without first warning me. My family here is protective of me. If I am in danger, they will take care of me. However, I have no wish to invite trouble.

  My name has been changed since leaving Sweden.

  I will sign this, therefore, only with,

  Karlijna

  Karlijna was reading the letter through when the phone rang. She glanced outside and saw Louisa was walking around the yard, trying still to get a colicky Rosie to sleep.

  “Hello?”

  “Karlijna?” the voice on the other end made the young woman's knees buckle and she sat in the nearest kitchen chair.

  “Michael,” she spoke with as much strength as possible.

  “I'm at Langley. I got in late last night.”

  “I am so glad you are safe,” she was crying. “I just got your letter yesterday.”

  “I love you, Karlijna,” Michael voice sounded funny. “I can't talk long. Everybody wants to call their wives.”

  “I love you too, Michael,” she hurried to say it lest he be forced to go too soon.

  “Would you like my new address?”

  He gave it to her and then, after telling her he loved her again, said goodbye.

  Karlijna looked up to see Louisa standing across the table, “Michael?”

  Karlijna nodded and swiped at her tears, “He loves me.”

  Louisa laughed, nearly startling the baby back awake, “Of course. But he has told you this before.”

  “It is the first time I have heard it, though.”

  A week later, John and Louisa drove Karlijna into town.

  “Look how this girl has grown,” Sig took the baby as soon as they entered the house. “She's so nice and round.”

  Louisa smiled at the praise.

  “What time do Ellie and Sara get home tomorrow?”

  Sig shrugged, “I don't know. Ellie's friend offered to bring them home again – though how they will fit all their things into that car is beyond me.

  “Don't you think they'll just ship them?” John's voice of reason made the ladies laugh.

  “I suppose,” Sig didn't look up from the baby. “I sure would like one of these.”

  The other three gaped at her. She looked up and rolled her eyes.

  “I don't mean me, “I mean a grandbaby,” she winked at Karlijna who turned redder than the scarf she had tied around her neck.

  John cleared his throat, “I think I'll go see how Will is doing out in the garden.”

  “Sig,” Louisa decided to open that conversation, “Karlijna and I have been talking about this. She thinks it would be better if she and Michael didn't. . .”

  She paused, looking for words, hoping Sig or Karlijna would fill them in.

  Sig frowned as though she could not understand what was being said.

  “I am sure we are married in the eyes of the law,” Karlijna decided to jump in, “but I'm not sure how God feels about our marriage.”

  Sig's eyes looked like they would pop out of her head, “What could God possibly have against you being married to Michael?”

  “Nothing, I hope,” Karlijna could see she had not explained herself well, “but I am not certain I am married in God's eyes. When we took our vows I thought I was taking an oath about entering America. Though I love Michael and am dedicated to him, I do not know if I am married to him.”

  Sig blew out a breath, “This will take some time to think about. I never even considered. . . I didn't think about it,” she screwed up her face and looked at her daughter-in-law, “Does he know how you feel?”

  “I wrote to him, but I am sure it hasn’t yet arrived.”

  Sig raised her eyebrows and blew out her cheeks, “I can't see that going well.”

  “Why not?” Karlijna wondered if she thought Michael would have misgivings about getting married again.

  “When a man comes home expecting a wife and finds. . .” Sig made a face at Louisa who laughed softly.

  Karlijna sighed, “I hope he gets the letter soon.”

  CHAPTERTHIRTY-TWO

  Ellie and Sara arrived home the next evening, exhausted from their final exams. Karlijna didn't have much opportunity to talk to them the first day as they were busy unpacking, sleeping, and visiting friends. Karlijna didn't mind. She was glad for a chance to gather her thoughts together.

  One week after he arrived at Langley, Michael got a letter from Karlijna. He read it eagerly at first, but his happiness soon changed to dismay.

  Dear Michael, June 5, 1945

  I love to picture you in the United States instead of in England or Sweden. It is silly because you are still not with me. Perhaps, part of it is that I know you will be home soon. Every day I hope for word from you on the date we may expect you.

  I am concerned about your return. I wonder if you will like what I look like, if you will be pleased with how I speak now – I have picked up many American phrases. I am also concerned about what you are expecting from me. Do you plan to be my husband?

  I do not like to tell you these things by letters because I am fearful that you will think I do not love you. There is nothing true about that. I love you and want to be your wife. I tell you these by letter so you will have time for thinking before you come home.

  Though you knew what you were saying when you married me, I did not understand. I am afraid I have not made my vows to you before God. I understand that I am by law your wife, but I do not know about God.

  I love you more every day. I read your letters and am convinced of your godliness, of your compassion, and of your love for me. I pray for your understanding in this matter.

  Love,

  Karlijna

  He put the letter down and then picked it up again to reread it. He wasn't sure what to think. She was right, of course, about not participating wholly in the ceremony, but he thought she had come to grips with that.

  A major he had gotten to know sat down next to him, “Something wrong, Captain?”

  Michael hadn't seen him coming. He sat up straighter, “No, sir. It is from my. . .Karlijna.”

  “Relax,” the older man laughed at Michael's stiffness. “I sneaked up on you.”

  Michael tried to relax.

  “Karlijna is your girlfriend?”

  Michael hardly knew how to answer that, but he knew the Air Force cared only about the legality – not matters of the heart, “My wife, actually.”

  “You don't sound too sure of that.”

  “I'm sure, sir. She's my wife, alright.”

  “Is she uncertain?”

  The man would have laughed if he had realized how close to the truth he had come.

  “She confuses me, that's all.”

  “Some women are a bit unreasonable.”

  “Not Karlijna,” Michael defended her quickly, “she's very level-headed, actually. I think I was just expecting our life would be a bit different than what she's been thinking.”

  The major stood, “I hope you work it out.”

  For the next few days, Michael thought about what the man had said. Some women – and some men, for that matter – were unreasonable. Karlijna wasn't among them. That meant that she was probably thinking more clearly than he was.

  “Are you pack
ed up?” Major Finlay asked as Michael entered his superior's office.

  “Yes, sir,” Michael stood at attention.

  “You leave tonight?”

  Michael replied in the affirmative again.

  “Have a good trip. I hope you and your wife can make some sort of compromise.”

  Michael grinned, “I think she was right all along, sir.”

  “They usually are, Captain.”

  Ellie was sitting on the porch reading a letter when she heard a honking horn. She looked up to see Eddy's car in front of the house. She waved and would have gone back to reading Sam's latest letter, but the passenger door opened and a uniformed officer climbed out. Ellie was glad Sara was visiting Melba because she still had trouble seeing the men come home.

  Ellie couldn't tell who it was until Eddy drove away. She jumped to her feet and called into the house, “Mom, Karli, Michael's home!” then ran out to greet her brother.

  Her mother was hot on her heels as Ellie threw her arms around her brother. Sig joined the fray. Michael laughed as he held them, releasing them to give his father a hug as well. He stepped back and looked around.

  “Where is she?”

  Karlijna was in the garden trying to find some tomatoes for supper when she heard honking and a commotion in the front yard. She stood up and walked around the house to see what was going on.

  As the young woman rounded the house her heart nearly stopped in her chest. There, not ten feet in front of her stood a slender, blond man with bright blue eyes and the most beautiful smile in the world. With a cry she ran toward him.

  He dropped his cane and opened his arms, burying his face in her neck. Karlijna could not find the words she needed.

  “I love how you’ve done your hair,” he murmured, shifting his face so his lips were right next to her ear.

  Karlijna felt a shiver of pleasure at the feeling of his breath on her face as well as his words. She laid her head against his chest and slid her arms down to encircle his waist.

  Melba had walked Sara home.

  “I told you there was nothing to it, but your brother helping out a victim of the war,” Melba said sweetly. “See, he isn't even kissing her.”

  Sara felt genuinely sorry for her friend as they watched Michael stretch his arms further around his wife to pull her closer still, as if he may never let go again.