The Christmas Ball

by Susan Macatee

  She smirked. “Mary’s been a real help.”

  “Come, let’s all sit down and get acquainted.” Mary spread out her arm to indicate they resume their seats. “Greta will announce when dinner’s ready.”

  “Where’s Mother?” Kirk asked.

  “She’s taking her toilette before dinner. She should be down soon.”

  He caught Sara’s grimace. “Don’t worry, dear. Mother will love you.”

  Although she nodded, he noticed her throat working. She obviously feared meeting the matriarch of the family.

  Mary and Ted took seats on either side of the fireplace, forcing Kirk and Sara to settle on the settee.

  “Would you care for a brandy, ladies?” Ted asked. Without waiting for an answer, he poured from the decanter into the extra glasses Greta had left.

  He was very aware of Miss Brewster sitting stiffly beside him. After staring at her glass for a few moments, she finally lifted it to her lips. He noted her blush as the amber liquid slid down her throat. Setting her glass on the table, she glanced around the group.

  “Good, very good.” When her gaze caught his he had to suppress a laugh. His little soldier did indeed appear to have bloomed.

  “I told Kirk about the Christmas ball,” Ted put in.

  “You did?” Mary caught his gaze. “You will go won’t you? After all, it benefits the war.”

  He glanced at Sara. Her delicate brows raised in a question. “Only if I can bring Miss Brewster.”

  Mary clasped her hands together. “Of course, that’s what I had in mind all along.”

  “A ball? But I’ve got nothing I can wear to a ball.”

  “Don’t worry,” Mary said. “I’ve several ball gowns you can choose from.”

  Kirk scowled at his sister.

  She grinned and shrugged. “You’ve no excuse. Your family and friends will be there and I’m sure Sara will enjoy attending a Christmas ball.”

  He glanced at Miss Brewster. Her eyes grew wide and her throat worked. “I—I’m not rightly sure I’ll know how to act.”

  Mary reached over and patted her hand. “My brother will take care of you and Ted and I will be there as well. You’ll do just fine.”

  “Yes, I’m sure she will.” He caught Sara’s wavering smile.

  Glancing back at Mary, he found her smirking. Once he’d brought Miss Brewster here, his calculating sister must have immediately set this trap to snag him into attending the ball, knowing he’d make up any excuse to weasel his way out.

  ****

  At dinner, Kirk sat beside Sara. Ted and Mary sat on opposite ends of the dining table, while his mother, Grace, sat across from him.

  Miss Brewster held up well, exhibiting impeccable manners, although he had to subtly guide her as to what fork to use for each dish. His mother, to her credit, was more than gracious to their guest. Likely, Mary had already briefed her on the woman soldier’s background.

  “Miss Brewster,” Grace said. “I do hope you’re finding your stay here in Washington to your liking.”

  “Why yes, ma’am.” Miss Brewster placed her fork alongside her plate and raised her napkin to her lips. “I like it just fine.”

  Grace smiled. “Well, I must say, it’s quite unsettled here with all the Rebels surrounding the city. Makes me long for my home in Philadelphia.”

  “I’m sure it’s beautiful there, ma’am.”

  “Indeed it is.” Grace’s shrewd eyes lifted to Kirk. “I hope to go back there when this dreadful war is over.”

  He felt Miss Brewster’s gaze on him. “I’m sure that can be worked out, Mother.” He glanced at Sara. “Miss Brewster was raised on a farm near Harrisburg.”

  “I’d love to hear all about where you come from, dear,” Grace said.

  Sara’s gaze dropped to her hands in her lap. “There’s really not much to tell.”

  “Why, farming’s a noble profession. Without farmers, whatever would we have to eat?”

  Mary and Ted chuckled. Kirk smirked, pleased his mother was doing everything in her power to make their guest feel comfortable.

  “But it’s so fancy here in the city,” Miss Brewster said, glancing around the table.

  “I’m certain you’ll adapt quite well, my dear,” Grace said.

  He caught Mary’s gaze as it drifted over Sara. “Yes, Mother. When I get done with our little soldier, no one will be able to tell she’s not a city native.”

  Kirk sighed, wondering just what his sister had planned for the Christmas Eve ball.

  Chapter Six

  Sara shifted in the midnight green satin gown as Mary pinned it to fit. “Perfect,” Mary said after she’d removed the pins from her mouth. “I can alter this today and it will be all ready for you for tomorrow night.”

  Sara’s lips pursed as she studied her reflection. The neckline of the gown was low enough to show the surge of her bosom pushed up by the corset. On the farm, she’d never worn a corset, since it would’ve restricted her from working. Even when she wore her Sunday best to church services, she’d been able to avoid wearing such a restrictive foundation. And by the time she’d come of age to where one would’ve been essential when not working, she’d adopted men’s clothes.

  Although she didn’t like the restrictive feel of the corset, crinoline and multiple petticoats necessary for the grand ball gown, she did like the way it made her look. The corset cinched in her already slim waist and also pushed out her bosom, the white swell outlined by a lace border and delicate ribbon that matched the green of the dress. She bit her lip wondering how Dr. Ellison would like her new appearance.

  Mary had also brought a coiled, braided hairpiece that matched Sara’s chestnut hair. After pinning that on, Mary applied a lace cap with black velvet bows.

  “Oh,” Mary said. “I can’t wait until my brother sees you. He’ll be absolutely enchanted and proud to have you on his arm.”

  “I sure hope so.” In truth, her mouth went dry trying to imagine what Doc Ellison would think. And how would he react when she did something embarrassing at the ball?

  “Of course he will,” Mary insisted. “We’ll surprise him tomorrow night. Now, let’s get this off, so I can start the alterations.”

  ****

  December 24th

  Kirk adjusted his military officers’ sash and frock coat for what he felt was the hundredth time, while he and Ted waited for the women. The first to come down the stairs was his mother. He reached up to take her hand and assist her down the last few steps.

  “Allow me to get your wrap, Mother Ellison.” Ted reached for the fur cape hanging on the post in the hall.

  As Ted draped the cape over her thin shoulders, Grace glanced at the top of the staircase. “I see Mary and Miss Brewster are ready as well.”

  He glanced up to where his sister and Miss Brewster stood and his eyes widened. The low neckline of Sara’s short sleeved ball gown, revealed mounds of white flesh beneath.

  “Come,” Mary said. “Let’s go meet our escorts.”

  Mary started down first. Ted moved to meet her halfway and took her arm to escort her down the remaining stairs.

  Kirk couldn’t peel his gaze away as Sara moved slowly down. Mary gave his arm a nudge. “Go collect your lady.”

  “Of course.” He stepped up, crooking his arm for Sara to take. “You look lovely, Miss Brewster.”

  A hint of a smile played around her full lips and she inclined her head. Once they’d descended the stairs, she shivered.

  “You’re cold. Where’s your wrap?”

  Sara glanced at Mary. Ted was adjusting a wool cape around his wife’s shoulders. “I’ve a cape over there she can wear.” Mary pointed at a navy blue, lined and hooded cape hanging from one of the pegs on the wall.

  Kirk retrieved it and settled it on her slim shoulders. “Will you be warm enough?”

  His mother waved her arm. “It’s just a short ride by carriage. I’m sure she’ll be just fine.”

  Sara nodded. He bent both elbows for her
and his mother to take and escorted them both to the waiting carriage.

  ****

  Sara’s heart beat frantically as the conveyance approached the grand mansion where the ball was being held. Gas lamps illuminated the city streets they traveled. The mansion was set back from the road. She stared at the windows of the large house, where the yellow glow of gaslight flickered. Her gloved hands trembled in her lap. Doc Ellison, who sat on her right side, while his mother sat on her left, reached out and covered her hands with his, sending delicious warmth through her.

  “You’ll do fine, Miss Brewster,” he whispered. “Just stay with me.”

  His mother patted her arm. “My son will take good care of you, my dear.”

  Sara swallowed hard, sure she’d make a complete fool of herself at such a grand party. The fanciest to-do’s she’d ever attended were barn dances and get-togethers at the homes of family and friends. Her heart fluttered as she tried to figure a way to not embarrass herself, as well as the Ellison family, tonight.

  After their carriage pulled up in front of the mansion, Kirk escorted her on one arm, his mother on the other, up to the door, with Mary and her husband following.

  The door opened to reveal a gaily decorated entry hall. Red bows and holly branches graced the way as a servant took their wraps. Her head swiveled toward the sound of music and laughter. Two, large ornately patterned doors stood open to her eager gaze. She caught skirts of all colors swirling as dancers spun around the large polished floor beyond the doorway.

  Kirk’s hand on her arm settled her a bit as he led her toward the room. A white haired gentleman dressed in a black suit moved forward to greet them. He took Mrs. Ellison’s hand and led her inside. Kirk motioned Sara to follow.

  Her gaze was riveted on the dancers waltzing grandly around the cavernous room. Tables stood to one side, steeped with punch bowls and food. Her mouth watered at the delicious smells.

  Mrs. Ellison was led away to a group of older ladies, who swiftly surrounded her. “Mother is obviously well in hand. Shall we try out the dance floor, or would you rather sit the first one out?”

  “I, uh...” Sara stumbled over her words, not sure what she wanted to do. “This is so...” She waved her gloved hand. “...so grand. I’ve never seen the like.”

  Mary slipped around to her other side and took her hand. “We don’t have to dance right away. Why don’t we sit and watch the first few sets?”

  Before they could move toward the chairs, Mary was presented with a small card with a pencil dangling from it. When the servant handed one to Sara, she held it up. “What’s this for?”

  Mary grinned. “It’s your dance card. All the ladies get one and the gentlemen who dance with you have to sign it.”

  Sara swallowed. “How many men do I have to dance with?” Her pulse raced as she glanced around the room. She didn’t want to look like a fool in front of all these people.

  Doc Ellison took her other hand. “Don’t worry, Miss Brewster, I’ll take it upon myself to claim all your dances.”

  “Be sure to save one for me,” Ted said.

  “Of course.” Doc Ellison took the small card and penciled in all the dances, with one reserved for Ted.

  “And when Miss Brewster dances with Ted, I’ll dance with Mary.” He filled in Mary’s card.

  Mary raised her brows. “You are absolutely outrageous, dear brother.”

  Kirk shrugged. “Anything to keep my lady comfortable.” He crooked his arm as an offering.

  The group moved to the chairs set against one of the long walls to watch the next dance. Sara gazed around looking for the musicians. Music rose behind a couple of large potted plants. A small, fully decorated Christmas tree was set beside the food tables, lending to the holiday spirit.

  The next dance was a reel, a staple in the barn dances she’d attended. She relaxed, deciding this evening might just be fun after all.

  When the next number started, Kirk offered her his arm as Ted did with Mary. The women were led to the floor and lined up alongside the other couples for a quadrille.

  By the time the dance finished, her face was flushed and her bosom heated. She curtsied to Doc Ellison, while he bowed and took her arm to escort her for the next dance.

  ****

  Kirk was pleased when the next number the band played was a waltz. When he moved to take her in his arms, he feared Miss Brewster would balk. But she lifted her gaze to his and after glancing at the other couples, lifted her arms to the proper positions. He steered her into the inner circle, so they could take it slow.

  “I’ve never done none of these fancy dances before,” she whispered. Her sweet breath tickled the underside of his chin.

  He lowered his head. “Don’t worry. Just follow my lead and you’ll do just fine.”

  As they slowly circled the floor, he warmed to the feel of the little soldier in his arms. He had a hard time recalling the young private back at Fredericksburg. Now, with her hair done up, her flowing ball gown, in corset and crinoline, she was all woman. How could he ever have thought she was male?

  After the dance ended, and they’d bowed and curtsied to each other, he took her hand. “I think it’s time for some punch.” He led her to the table on the side, noting many of his Washington acquaintances and men in uniform, watching with raised brows.

  A dark haired lieutenant, with his lady on his arm, approached, a wide smile on his thin face.

  “Kirk, I see you got furlough for the holiday as well. How long have you been in Washington?”

  “Just a few weeks.”

  “Well, I’m sure you remember my wife, Josephine.”

  “Of course.” He took the dark-haired beauty’s gloved hand and bowed over it. He then turned to Sara. “I’d like to present my old friend, Lieutenant Saunders, and his lovely wife. This is a friend of my family, Miss Brewster.”

  “How do you do?” Saunders took Miss Brewster’s hand and bowed over it, while his wife nodded. “I’ve been stationed in Washington for the last four months,” he said to Kirk. “Where’s your regiment?”

  “I was in Fredericksburg.”

  The lieutenant’s brows rose. “Fierce battle, I heard.”

  “Yes, now I’m working in one of the Washington hospitals.”

  “Well then, maybe I’ll be seeing you about. It’s good you can be with your family for Christmas. Very nice meeting you, Miss Brewster.”

  After his friends moved off, dinner was announced. Kirk escorted Miss Brewster to the tables where she marveled at the variety of foods displayed. Ted and Mary joined them as the couples found seats. Sara’s plate was heaped indecently high. Kirk had encouraged her to try a bit of everything. As he sampled his dish, he grinned at the expressions on her delicate face, varying from smiles and murmurs of pure delight to grimaces.

  She turned to him after swallowing something disagreeable and scowled. “What was that I just ate?”

  He bit his lip trying not to laugh.

  “That was an oyster, I believe,” Ted said.

  “Yuk. It was so slimy. How do you people eat that?”

  “It’s considered a delicacy.”

  “Well...” She wiped her hand over her mouth. “I don’t care for it.”

  “Here...” Kirk handed her a glass of wine. “This should help wash it down.”

  Her gaze caught his as she lifted the glass to her lips. He couldn’t take his eyes off her mouth and white, delicate throat as she swallowed. She was such a delight. He’d never met a woman like her. Despite her humble upbringing, he found her enchanting and the thought of her being reassigned, or him for that matter, and never seeing her again, caused a physical pain in his chest.

  After the meal, the couples joined in another dance. This time Kirk danced with Mary, leaving Ted to dance with Sara. As he twirled his sister around the dance floor, his gaze never left Miss Brewster.

  “I suspect you’re developing much more than feelings of friendship for your lady soldier,” Mary said. Her dark eyes crinkled
as she gazed up at him.

  He grimaced. “I must confess, I don’t know what to do about it.”

  “If you care for her, dear brother, you have to make the next move.”

  “And that would be?”

  “Ask her to marry you, of course.”

  He turned his head to find Ted twirling Sara around the floor. Her skin was flushed, her eyes bright.

  “You must be joking.” He gazed down at Mary’s face.

  “I happen to think she’s perfect for you and Mother thinks so too.” Mary smirked.

  “But, marriage? That’s rather sudden. I haven’t known her all that long. At least not as a woman.”

  “You’ve had so much disappointment concerning women. If she makes you happy, grab your chance. It may never come again.”

  As the dance ended and he bowed to Mary, she curtsied, then raised her gaze, tilting an eyebrow. “You know I’m right.” She took his arm, and he escorted her back to her seat.

  His gaze sought Miss Brewster being escorted by Ted. Was she the woman for him? And how much time did he have to claim her?

  ****

  Sara’s head spun as Ted led her from the dance floor. She honestly couldn’t remember having so much fun in her life. Not that she’d want to attend lavish balls on a regular basis, but having the handsome doctor by her side was something she’d love to experience for the rest of her life.

  She drew out the scented hand fan Mary had loaned her and fanned her heated bosom. Raising her gaze, she caught Kirk’s eyes on her. His lips curved into a smile. Reaching for her arm, he guided her into a chair. “I’ll get you a drink.”

  “More wine?”

  Raising an eyebrow, he smirked. “Perhaps a tiny bit more.”

  He sauntered away. She watched his back as she sank into the chair, catching herself when she felt her satin skirts in danger of sliding off the velvet seat.

  A couple approached, the man escorting a middle-aged woman into the chair beside Sara. When the man moved away, she glanced at the woman, who smiled.

  “I saw you dancing with Doctor Ellison and Mr. Cunningham. I assume you’re a relative of theirs.”

  “No, ma’am. I’m a friend of Doc Ellison’s. I’m staying with the Cunningham’s while I work at the hospital.”