Reluctant Brides Collection

by Cathy Marie Hake

  “I suppose you were thinking about your cabin and your life with Adelaide.”

  He stared at the mountains below. “Yes,” he said finally. “I was.” He took a deep breath. “Dr. Montgomery was my mentor and entrusted his daughter to me. I owe him everything.”

  All was quiet except the wind rustling in the trees.

  He knew this was difficult for Christa. She loved the school and the children. “Will you stay in the cove? You’ve come to mean so much to…everyone.”

  “I’m glad I got to teach. I’m going to miss it.”

  Shadows on her face reflected the darkness he felt at the thought of not seeing her, teaching with her, sitting with her in church, watching her relate to the children. “I don’t want to lose y—”

  A crack of thunder stopped his words. He’d almost said he didn’t want to lose her. He now said, “I don’t want to lose your friendship.”

  He barely heard her voice above the rising wind. “You’ll be busy with Adelaide, and I’ll return to Hendersonville.”

  He felt like a tree, rooted to the ground. He wished she would turn, run away from him, before…

  Following another loud roll of thunder, she stated the obvious. “It’s raining!”

  “You’re kidding,” he said as the cloudburst showed no mercy.

  They ran through the forest and across the creek, not bothering with stepping stones. They laughed and sloshed past the graveyard, splashed beyond the church, and hurried to John’s cabin.

  As if having a mind of their own, his hands came up to her shoulders. Her rain-spattered face lifted toward his. He didn’t intend it, but their cool, wet lips touched.

  Then as if lightning had struck, they pulled away.

  She said, “Bye,” and fled inside. He remained staring at a closed wooden door, getting soaked.

  How could he ever forget this storm?

  This storm that raged within his heart.

  Chapter 12

  Christa and Todd stood outside the school as the newcomers strolled across the schoolyard. Christa glanced at the middle-aged woman and Dora but could not take her eyes from the lovely young woman walking with them. Blond curls peeked out beneath a pink-flowered bonnet that matched her pink and white dress.

  The pretty girl came right up to Christa and reached for her hands. “You have to be Miss Walsh. Grant and the Carmichaels think the world of you. They told me about your being mistaken for me. It’s so funny. But I must scold Grant for not telling me how pretty you are.” Christa couldn’t help but respond favorably to the compliment accompanied by the sweet smile and shining blue eyes. “And you’d be Adelaide Montgomery. Grant did say how lovely you are. I’m pleased to meet you.”

  Adelaide turned to the other women. “This is my mama, Jane Montgomery.”

  The woman hugged Christa. “We’re all so grateful to you, my dear. Grant told us how disappointed the people in the cove would be without all you’ve done.”

  Christa could see where Adelaide got her charm. This smartly dressed, congenial woman reminded her of her own mother. “I’m sure I’ve benefited more than the children. Let me introduce Todd Morgan.”

  Adelaide shook Todd’s hand. “Oh, you’re the talented young man Grant told us about. I have shown your songs to a music teacher in Charleston. He is so impressed that he has made this trip with us.”

  Todd’s eyes sparked with excitement. “A music teacher came all the way from Charleston?” Adelaide nodded. “He’s with my papa and Grant right now, and he wants to talk with your parents.”

  By Todd’s adoring look, Christa felt he had lost his heart to Adelaide. With their blond hair and blue eyes, they could pass for brother and sister. His smile broadened. “There’s my pa now.”

  Adelaide did not seem put off by Birr Morgan’s rugged looks. He climbed down from the wagon and took his hat off before shaking her pink-gloved hand.

  Birr, Todd, and Adelaide engaged in conversation. Christa would have liked to listen, but Miz Dora spoke. “I’ve managed to convince Adelaide and her parents to stay with me and Clem tonight. That way, Miss Adelaide can get an early start with you in the morning.”

  Adelaide bade the Morgans good-bye and turned to Christa. Apparently she had overheard Dora. “Oh, Christa, I do want you to tell me all about the children and what you’ve done. Grant says it’s remarkable.” She smiled delightedly.

  Dora invited them all for supper. “Christa, you and Pastor John are welcome to join us. Dr. Montgomery, Mr. Warren, and Grant will be there.”

  “Thank you,” Christa said, “but I’m sure Uncle John is already fixing our supper. And I need to make sure I have everything ready for Miss—”

  “Miss nothing,” Adelaide said. “I’m Adelaide to you. I think we could be great friends.”

  Christa couldn’t imagine that anyone would turn down an offer of friendship with Adelaide.

  But she also couldn’t imagine sitting at supper watching Adelaide and Grant glow with love for each other. How could she consider staying here and have her mending heart break again?

  At the depot in Grey Eagle, Grant and Adelaide had kissed each other’s cheeks. She was so beautiful. He felt guilty. Not only had he betrayed his fiancée, he’d betrayed Christa’s trust in him. Mrs. Montgomery hugged him, and Dr. Montgomery shook his hand. Then Adelaide introduced a young man in a dark suit as Charlie Warren, the music teacher from Charleston.

  Grant was pleased that the man was impressed enough with Todd’s song to visit him in the cove but thought him young to have much experience. However, as Charlie and Dr. Montgomery rode along with him on their rented horses ahead of the carriage in which Adelaide and Mrs. Montgomery rode, Grant soon discovered the young man’s accomplishments.

  Charlie had been a child protégé and traveled as a concert pianist, but his love was teaching music. “I feel that the Lord wants me to give back to others the kinds of opportunities I have had. I want to see if Todd is one I should mentor.” He addressed Grant. “I understand that is what Dr. Montgomery did for you, and now you’re of tremendous value in this cove.”

  Grant admired Charlie Warren’s dedication to the Lord and to others.

  After the three men toured the cove, they visited the Morgans, where Charlie talked to Todd about his music. Upon returning to the Carmichaels, Clem and Dora insisted the Montgomerys and Charlie stay with them instead of riding back down to Grey Eagle after supper.

  “Charlie’s welcome to stay with me,” Grant said.

  Charlie accepted the offer.

  Adelaide linked her arm through Grant’s and teased, “You didn’t tell me your Miss Christa was so young and pretty.”

  Grant felt warmth rise to his face. “Well, yes, I suppose she is.”

  Adelaide surprised him by saying, “I like her. Very much. I’m eager to observe her tomorrow in school.”

  During supper, Grant halfway listened to the conversations. He kept reminding himself of Adelaide’s attributes. Yet he couldn’t keep his mind on Adelaide. When he needed words most, they didn’t come.

  What could he say?

  That while promised to one woman he found another…appealing.

  Appealing?

  To say the least.

  But he must face facts. His feelings for Adelaide had grown over time. His feelings for Christa had come suddenly, unexpectedly.

  Things weren’t working out the way he’d planned—in his life or in his heart.

  Christa lay awake. The past weeks had been wonderful. She’d gained a purpose, a love for children, a new confidence in her abilities. She’d replaced her bitterness and resentment of Roland, William, and Bettina with an admiration, respect, and even love for so many.

  Grant and Adelaide were now together, and Christa thought Adelaide would be a wonderful teacher. The Morgans and the Carmichaels liked her. So would the children.

  She prayed that God would forgive her for ever harboring a hope that she might be the one in Grant’s heart. She never wanted to feel sorry
for herself again, be selfish, or wallow in negative thinking.

  She finally slept but awakened several times and prayed about her apprehension concerning the day to come.

  At breakfast, Uncle John prayed that she might have courage.

  After he said, “Amen,” she poured maple syrup on a flapjack. “Thank you, Uncle John. I’m afraid I don’t have much courage.”

  “You have more than you think, Christa. You see, courage isn’t bravery. Courage is taking action even though you’re afraid or apprehensive. You’ve faced fears head on, and God has used you in a wonderful way.”

  “I’ve resisted all the way.”

  “No, Christa. You acted in spite of your reluctance. You’ve put others ahead of your fears. You put Grant’s reputation ahead of your own. The Lord answered your prayer for help.”

  “Oh, Uncle John. For so long I didn’t trust Him to answer. I wanted Him to bring Roland back, to make William and Bettina see that I was responsible and make me the proprietor of that shop.”

  Uncle John smiled and put his hand on hers. “He had something better in mind for you.”

  She nodded. “Yes, but why would He do this for me when I was not trusting Him?”

  Uncle John leaned back. “To prove that He loves you. You’re His child.”

  That was a good feeling. To know that God loved her. Uncle John loved her. “I’ve learned a lot, Uncle John. But it’s over now.”

  “Don’t worry about that.” He pointed his fork at her. “God has a way of teaching us new lessons all through life.”

  Christa smiled. Lessons could be hard. Sometimes you didn’t pass the test.

  On the other hand…sometimes you did.

  “Don’t worry,” Uncle John said. “I’m coming to school with you this morning. As pastor, I need to meet these people.”

  Shortly after ringing the school bell, Christa’s commitment to courage almost failed. Walking across the schoolyard were the Carmichaels, June Montgomery, and two men who would be Dr. Montgomery and the music teacher.

  Behind them was Grant, giving his full attention to Adelaide, who had one hand tucked around his arm and the other holding a sunshiny yellow parasol above her pretty face. She looked like everything in her world was just perfect.

  Chapter 13

  Christa abandoned her careful lesson plans. The visitors should see for themselves what the children had learned.

  The children performed much as they had for their parents. Having an audience brought out their best. She asked the music teacher, looking handsome in his citified suit and tie, to speak to the class. He accepted graciously and talked about various kinds of music, from banjo picking to opera to his own instrument—the piano.

  Charlie Warren asked Todd and Adelaide to sing with him a song he and Adelaide had sung at church in Charleston.

  Todd’s voice was by far the best of the three, but the trio sang beautifully. Christa was again struck by the fair hair and blue eyes of Adelaide and Todd. Their appeal was enhanced by the tall, dark-haired man. Todd was dressed in everyday clothes, but Christa could visualize him dressed up, singing on a stage before a huge audience, delighting them with his voice.

  Christa stood near the doorway and stole a glance at Grant along the wall near Dr. Montgomery. Both men seemed entranced as the trio gave a theater-worthy performance in a one-room schoolhouse.

  She was thankful she had been a part of Grant’s life during the past weeks, helped make things easier for Adelaide, and played a part in the life of a boy with exceptional talent.

  She had done her best, in spite of her reluctance.

  Now, she must step aside for those who could do better than she.

  Christa dismissed school at noon so she could talk with Adelaide. Charlie Warren took Todd home. The other adults praised her for how well she had taught the children.

  Grant came over and thanked her. Christa nodded, afraid to do more than glance at him.

  Uncle John moved to her side. “I think it’s lunch time,” he said.

  Dora heard him. “All of you are invited to my house for lunch.”

  Adelaide spoke up. “Grant, why don’t you make yourself useful and bring a plate for me and Christa. We need to talk about things.”

  He looked as if a weight had been released from his shoulders. “I’d be glad to.”

  “And I’d be glad to accept your lunch invitation, Miz Dora,” Uncle John said. He turned to Christa and winked.

  Christa stared at the adults walking between the two oaks. Why did Grant seem as strange and unresponsive as the day she first met him? Did he think she would fall apart because she’d no longer be teaching? Did he suspect how she felt about him? Likely, he was regretting that brief kiss. She thought he’d regretted it the night it happened.

  Adelaide spoke. Christa turned. “I’m sorry. My mind was elsewhere.”

  “Oh, I understand,” said Adelaide. “I was saying that you obviously love these children and have done a wonderful job with limited resources. How do you like cove life? I know this one-room schoolhouse is quite different from what you’ve experienced in the city.”

  They walked toward the classroom. “It’s hard,” Christa admitted. “The living situation is rustic. No electricity except closer to Grey Eagle. No stores to buy food or clothes. Pump water for a bath.”

  A part of her wished it would seem too hard for Adelaide. But she wanted to be honest. She stopped on the porch. “I love it here. You will, too, I’m sure. The benefits are seeing these children so eager to learn.”

  Adelaide’s face lit up. She did a fancy little dance step. Her blond curls swung around her pretty face. Then she rested her hand on the banister. “I know Grant loves this place. It’s closer to his heart than anywhere. Can you see that his work is making a difference?”

  Christa looked away from the light in Adelaide’s eyes. She answered as truthfully as she could, trying not to feel the emotion that welled up in her.

  Grant needed a helpmeet to welcome him home. He needed someone to talk to, to understand, to care, to have supper ready, to warm his bed. She turned back to Adelaide. “The graveyard out back of the church is just one testimony to the effectiveness of his work here. The mortality rate for babies has decreased by half in the past few years. Oh, Adelaide, you can teach women about hygiene. That will make such a difference.”

  She saw the pleasure on Adelaide’s face. She almost expected the lovely girl to shout. She had done some good after all. She had helped settle in Adelaide’s mind that she was needed here, would love it. Yes, she had done something good for the man she…called friend.

  Adelaide grabbed Christa’s hands. “Oh, thank you, Christa.”

  They continued talking about everything. Christa would love to have a friend like Adelaide. But she knew that would be possible only if her feelings for Grant vanished. That seemed about as unlikely as the mountains ahead of them disappearing.

  They were laughing and talking about city life when Grant brought their food.

  “You’re not eating with us?” Adelaide asked.

  His brow furrowed. “I’m talking with your dad about the medical needs here.”

  “Hmmm, I see. That’s more important than us.”

  “No, but it is important.”

  “I’m teasing you, Grant.”

  He nodded and glanced at Christa. She smiled down at her plate. Instead of thinking about what she might want for herself, she thought of how she’d felt when Roland had jilted her. She would not wish that kind of experience on anyone, particularly the lovely Adelaide.

  While they ate lunch, Adelaide surprised her. “Christa. Could I ask a favor? Could you finish out this week for me? I’m just not ready to jump in and teach. But I would love for you to show me the church and a little of the cove.”

  “I’ll be glad to. But don’t you want Grant to do that?”

  “I learned a long time ago that Grant and my dad forget everything else when they discuss medicine.”

  Chr
ista and Adelaide spent the afternoon walking through the cove. They talked to adults and children. After they returned late that afternoon, Christa was afraid Adelaide might not completely understand how busy Grant was as the cove’s only doctor. She relayed some of that information.

  “Oh, I’m aware of how much the people here need him, Christa. Last night he had to go help a cow deliver her calf.” She laughed. “I guess Grant has to be a veterinarian, too.”

  “The animals are important to these people. Milk isn’t delivered to one’s porch.”

  “Christa, don’t you think Grant is about the most wonderful man a girl could want?” Christa feared the warmth flooding her face must be visible. But Adelaide kept talking. “I’m so glad we spent this time together. I’ve had questions about teaching here. Now, I’m sure of where I belong and what I should do.” Her blue eyes shone. “Friend to friend, will you tell me something?”

  “If…if I can.”

  “Do you believe in love at first sight?”

  This girl was obviously very much in love. Adelaide had known Grant for years. Christa had known him for a short time.

  “I don’t know about just a look,” Christa said. “But I do think love can happen very quickly.”

  Adelaide laughed delightedly. “Sometimes in spite of ourselves, right?”

  Christa nodded

  Adelaide took Christa’s hands in hers. “You can’t imagine, Christa, what our conversations today have meant to me. Now, I need to go see Grant.” Her pretty yellow skirt swirled gracefully as Adelaide turned and hastened down the road.

  Christa would have preferred Adelaide to not have asked about falling in love. And she wished she could have said, “No, you need to know a person for a long time.”

  But Adelaide, offering her friendship, had deserved the best answer Christa could give.

  Chapter 14

  When Christa came home from school on Wednesday, Uncle John set a cup of coffee for her at the kitchen table, sat adjacent to her, then said the Montgomerys, the music teacher, and Grant had left the cove.