Hope nodded enthusiastically. “I shall speak with Adam and his momma.”
Later that evening, Stewart led Izabella to the buggy and assisted her up unto the seat.
“You possess nerves of stone,” she remarked. “We assumed a kiss occurred, but you stated it as fact.”
Stewart didn’t regret his statement to Hope. It was direct, but had also received a direct answer. Thinking of his life with Hope as she grew, Stewart knew that if the roles were reversed, Hope would have been as blunt with him. “I didn’t question the fact.”
“The day will come when you’ll embarrass yourself.”
“You’re insinuating that I’m yet to be embarrassed. I have humiliated myself more than once with my blunt comments. Most recently by chastising my daughter in error.”
“I will never question the thoughts on your mind. You are blunt and honest.”
“A trait I inherited and apparently passed on to my offspring. Hope was inquisitive while I courted. The moment I arrived home, she tapped on my bedroom door expecting details.”
“Did you reply?”
“There was nothing of consequence to report. The evening I ended the relationship with Jane, Hope and I discussed it. To her disappointment, she discovered I hadn’t kissed Jane. The evening of our first passionate kiss,” a grin appeared on his face, “she knew. She was disappointed with the kiss in the pond. She asked if the kiss in private was different, better.”
Izabella chuckled. “This type of conversation would never take place in the company of my parents, or even my sibling. It is my hope, someday, that Adam gives her a passionate, slow, sensual kiss. She will discover it is not comparable with a quick kiss on her cheek.”
“And your hopes for this evening?”
“Both. A kiss both passionate and sensual.”
“I’m looking forward to both.”
* * *
“Ah. That first kiss. Hers was sweet.” Keeghan sighed. “Memorable.”
“Wasn’t yours?” Will asked.
“I don’t even remember his name.”
“Seriously?”
“We were visiting friends, and I went to a party with their kids. The guy was good-looking and a bit older. I never saw him again. I do remember our first kiss.”
“As do I. In my car. For half the world to see if they wanted to watch. I still can’t believe you sent me home without allowing me to go into your apartment for a nightcap.”
Alexander raised his eyebrows and turned his attention back to the screen. Keeghan wished he would talk a bit more. What is he thinking? What is he hoping or expecting us to say?
Chapter Forty-One
The following day, Hope struggled to concentrate on the English Literature lecture. Grateful they were studying a classic, she and Poppa had discussed the book in detail. The day seemed dreadfully long. When their last classes finally ended, she and Adam walked hand in hand from the train toward the orphanage.
“Poppa spoke of my glowing face last evening.” She stared into the overcast sky. “He is aware we kissed.”
“Our parents are more intuitive than we realize,” Adam admitted. “Momma saw us at the back of the building.”
“Oh my,” she groaned. “I pray we possess the ability to be discreet the first time we lie together.”
His face turned beet red, quickly. Unable to help herself, she chuckled. Adam looked at her, rolled his eyes, and continued walking.
After playing with the children for over an hour, the children were called into the building. Adam and Hope followed behind.
“Take advantage of the tranquility and enjoy a leisurely stroll,” Mrs. Venderkemp suggested.
They found themselves at the very back of the property at the private cemetery. Each plot was marked by a small cross.
“It was not my intent to bring you here. Managing an orphanage can be emotional. Most days are rewarding, but not all. It’s difficult losing a birth mother or child. We must accept that some babies enter this world with few hours to live. Poppa welcomes children who are ill when their families are not capable of caring for them. We do not allow the children, volunteers, or visitors to venture this far back.”
Hope fought back her tears. After seeing the small sick babies in the nursery, the crosses made their fate very real. Adam gave her hand a gentle squeeze and led her back to the building.
* * *
To Hope’s delight, Adam accepted the invitation and joined her extended family for their weekly Sunday get-together. Both Hope’s father and grandfather refrained from witty comments, encouraging Adam to speak, to partake in the companionship of the gathering. It was truly a pleasurable evening. Brodie wagged her tail as she played with her newest friend.
With Hope’s first school year completed, Poppa stopped the buggy at the orphanage every morning, assisted her down, and then carried on to his office. Izabella would be with him when he returned later in the afternoon. Shortly before Poppa was due to arrive, Hope and Adam would go to the back of the building.
“We shall wear a path to this location,” Adam teased.
“I shall inform our children it is my favourite spot on this entire property.”
“In all my years, I never considered a family of my own. I imagined my life would be consumed by the children in this building. I fear someday you shall inform me you wish to move on with a life without me. I shall spend eternity cherishing the time we have shared.”
Hope put her arms around his neck. “If you initiate that conversation I shall be heartbroken. In my heart, I’m planning a life in this building, standing proudly by your side.” It had been a beautiful day, and by the look of the sky, promised to be a clear evening. A perfect night to spend by the pond. “If you are able, it would please me if you would join my family for a swim. Once the children are settled for the evening, I would welcome your company.”
“I wouldn’t feel comfortable encroaching upon your time with your family. Your poppa may disapprove.”
“Poppa suggested I kiss you. He would welcome your company.”
“Your poppa suggested that? My parents adore you, but would never discuss such topics. I’ve never seen any form of physical affection between my parents.”
“You must learn to adapt to Poppa. He is very blunt and straightforward.”
“As is his daughter.”
Hope smiled in agreement. “May I inform Poppa, and my aunt and uncle, to expect your company?”
“Indeed you may. I shall arrive with my bathing attire.”
After finishing the kitchen cleanup, Hope sat on the sofa looking out the window. She jumped to her feet and ran out to greet Adam when he appeared on his bicycle.
“I’m so pleased you came,” she greeted. She led him into the parlour. With the door closed, she reached up to kiss him.
“Hope, this is disrespectful in your family’s home.”
“Nonsense. We will not be seen,” she assured him. “They’re walking Brodie.”
A tender kiss quickly turned passionate.
“A-hem.” A male cleared his throat.
“Shh.” It was a female voice.
It dawned on Hope. Someone sees us. No. Adam will never kiss me again. Hope’s cheeks and neck burned. Adam pulled back from the embrace as Hope opened her eyes. Her father and Izabella were standing in the entrance. Adam turned his back to them, but Hope was able to see his face turn scarlet red. She reached for his hand and gripped it firmly.
“I miss the squeaky door,” Hope confessed. “I didn’t hear you approach.”
“That’s quite apparent,” Poppa acknowledged. “I recall a young girl who turned up her nose when discussing a kiss. Something of significance has changed.”
“Poppa!” she exclaimed.
Adam shifted his feet uneasily. Staring at the floor, he avoided looking directly at anyone.
“Are you planning to join Adam and me in the pond?” she asked, hoping to change the topic.
“Nay. Not this evening. Perhaps on the
next visit.”
“Please, do not change your plans on my account,” Adam pleaded, still unable to look their way.
“We will decline tonight, but I would be pleased to put your bicycle into the wagon and transport you home when you’re ready.”
“That would be appreciated, sir,” he responded, still staring at the floor.
Hope showed Adam to the spare room to change, and then they spent an hour in the water.
After his initial embarrassment, it took a few weeks, but Adam began to relax with her family. He loved the water sports and allowed his playful side to surface.
Once the children were fed on Sundays, Adam would change his clothing and be waiting at the front steps when Hope and her family arrived en-route to Nana and Papa’s home. Although Adam was not accustomed to wit, he began to appreciate her father and grandfather’s sense of humour. The summer sped by, and they began preparing for their second year at school.
Chapter Forty-Two
Stewart entered Hope’s room for their evening visit. He sat on the edge of her bed.
“I’ve decided to enrol in a basic accounting class,” Hope informed him.
“I’m pleased to hear that.”
“Yes. I’ll be a valued asset at the orphanage if Adam and I have a future together. I hope to assist Adam’s momma shortly after graduation. If that does not happen….”
“I’d be pleased to hire you to assist Vicki with the bookkeeping duties for my business.”
Hope smiled and gave him a big hug.
Hope began her course, and grasped the concepts with ease.
Weeks after their spring break, Greg, Vicki, Stewart, and Izabella were playing cards in the parlour. There was a soft tap at the front door.
Woof.
Brodie charged down the steps from the second floor, confirming the knock. The dog arrived before Greg to greet their guest. From his seat in the parlour, Stewart heard Adam’s voice.
“If Mr. Don-ovan is a-vailable, I’d wish to sp-peak with him.”
Stewart jumped to his feet and rushed to the door.
“If you would b-be so kind, I w-wish to speak with you in p-private,” he stammered.
Bewildered, Stewart led Adam into the library. Greg gripped Brodie’s collar and returned to return to the parlour. Adam trembled as he stood by the bookshelves, staring at the floor. He shuffling his feet, seeming unable to calm himself.
“Do sit down,” Stewart begged, hoping the young man’s nerves would settle.
“I would p-prefer to s-stand.”
Stewart sat on the chair and watched Adam fidget with his hands. “Are you thirsty? Would you care for a drink?”
Adam never responded but shifted his weight from one foot to the other.
Natasha. Give the young man the strength to speak.
Finally, Adam took a deep breath. “I’ve r-rehearsed this in my m-mind, but now that I s-stand in your p-presence….”
“I’m a blunt man, Adam. Speak your mind.”
He took another deep breath. His hands were still trembling. “I’m in l-love with your d-daughter, sir,” he whispered. Stewart strained his ears to hear his words. “I would be p-pleased knowing I have your b-blessing….”
A warm sensation filled Stewart’s heart. Hope would be elated by the proposal.
“Indeed, you have my blessing,” Stewart informed him before he finished. “I would be honoured to accept you as a son. I’m shocked Hope didn’t mention this.”
“I haven’t s-spoken of my i-intention, I felt I ne-eded to have your ap-proval before I sp-poke to her.”
Natasha’s voice nudged him inside his head. Given the financial situation of the Venderkemps, it was doubtful Adam had a ring.
“I shall return in a moment,” Stewart informed him. He got to his feet. “Do sit down, and please, breathe.”
Stewart left Adam sitting on a chair in the library, looking rather pale. He rushed down the hall, smiled when he saw Greg, Vicki, and Izabella look his way, and dashed up the staircase to his room. Returning to the library a few minutes later, he opened the lid on the small box and showed Adam the ring he had given to Natasha years earlier.
“I would be honoured if you would place her mother’s diamond ring on Hope’s finger.”
“It is beautiful, but would you not prefer to use it yourself?”
“This ring was purchased for my deceased wife. Hope’s mother. It would be pleasing to see it upon our daughter’s hand. That is, assuming you don’t have a ring.”
Stewart watched as Adam shook his head. “I do not. I would be honoured to propose marriage with this ring. Thank you, sir.”
Stewart chuckled at the formality. “Now that you’re family, you may call me Stewart, or Poppa,” he requested. “Whichever you are more comfortable using. I shall inform Hope you wish to see her.”
“If you please, I require a moment to settle my nerves.” Adam placed his hands on his stomach.
“Relax, Adam.” Stewart gave a reassuring squeeze to the young man’s shoulder. “Hope won’t allow you the opportunity to finish proposing before squealing with delight.”
After informing Hope she had company, Stewart joined Izabella, Greg, and Vicki in the parlour. Too excited to sit, he stood at the window and gazed outside. Minutes felt like hours as he waited to hear his daughter’s voice.
“Poppa! Poppa,” she squealed.
Running toward the lobby, he was greeted by Hope’s outstretched hand. He lifted her into his arms and swung her in circles.
“Congratulations!” He beamed with happiness.
As he lowered Hope to her feet, he noticed Greg, Vicki, and Izabella watching proudly by the entrance to the parlour. Greg had a firm grip on Brodie’s collar.
Vicki approached her niece to admire the ring. “It looks as beautiful on your hand as it did on your momma’s. You’re glowing, Hope. I cannot think of anything that would stand in the way of a happy marriage between you and Adam.” Vicki turned to her brother. “I eagerly await the opportunity to call you Papa.”
The smile faded from Stewart’s face. His gaze travelled from Vicki to Adam, and finally to Hope. If his daughter was pregnant, it would explain Adam’s nervousness about asking for his blessing.
“Is there a reason for an engagement at this time?” he asked. “Hope, are you with chil—”
“No, sir.” Adam was adamant as he interrupted.
“Adam is always a gentleman,” Hope assured him. She kissed her fiancé’s cheek. “After we are married, I hope to have many children who shall refer to you as Papa. It would be pleasing if you would marry Izabella. Our children could refer to you as Papa and Nana.”
“I’m too young to be a Nana,” Izabella managed to respond, holding back her laughter.
Stewart stepped back and reached for Izabella’s hand. Marriage to her was something he didn’t want to discuss in front of the family just yet. “Have you informed your parents of your plans?” he asked.
“Nay. I wished for your approval and to be sure Hope would agree to accept my proposal.”
Izabella and Greg congratulated Adam. Stewart was able to hear Vicki ply her niece for details.
“You must put me out of my misery. How did Adam propose? What were his exact words?”
“I recall watching as he lowered himself onto one knee and opened the box. I believe I heard the word marry as he slid the ring on my finger, but I was so ecstatic, it is nothing but a blur in my mind. I shall be Adam’s wife,” she gloated quietly.
Chapter Forty-Three
Two weeks later, Hope was pushing a boy and a girl on the swings when Adam called her. Leaving the children, she worked her way toward her fiancé. He held out an envelope with ‘Venderkemp Family’ written on it in large bold letters.
“I cannot imagine the contents of this envelope. It’s thick and isn’t addressed properly. We must assume it was hand delivered.”
“Open it.”
“Given the bulk, I fear I may lose something in this bree
ze. We shall open it once we’re in the office.”
Hope stood by the desk and waited patiently as Adam melted the large seal. Overwhelmed, he stared at the contents before searching for a corresponding letter.
“What is the cause of your distress?” Hope asked, concerned by his expression.
Without speaking, he tilted the envelope, allowing Hope to see the enclosed cash. Hope recognized her poppa’s penmanship but recalled his desire for privacy regarding his first donation. There was a reason he hadn’t handed the money to Adam or his parents. Obviously, her father wished to remain anonymous.
“Who gave such a donation?” she asked, hoping Adam did not presume it was her father.
“I don’t know. How shall I ever thank the person, or persons? The money will be of great value to the orphanage. The children and my parents will be eternally grateful.”
Knowing Poppa, I don’t think he intended this money to be used for the day-to-day operations of the orphanage. Given the way the envelope was addressed, I believe this money is for Adam and his parents, for their personal use. It is to be used to help Adam’s parents. To help his family.
“Adam, the envelope is addressed to the Venderkemp family, not the Venderkemp Orphanage. I believe it is meant for your family’s personal use.”
He removed the money and counted it. “Is it possible this came from your poppa?”
Adam was not a fool. The question didn’t surprise Hope, but she didn’t want Adam to mention it to her family.
“Adam, Poppa already made a large donation. To my knowledge, he is not in the financial position to give a second.”
“Of course,” he responded. He turned his attention back to the contents. “Stay in the office, Hope. I shall return with Momma and Poppa.”
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