Christmas Miracles: Mega Mail Order Bride 20-Book Box Set: Multi-Author Box Set

by Jenny Creek Tanner

  “My name is Emily Graves. I’m from New York, and I have two children. I lost my husband in a horse accident a few years back, and well, I came across this ad.”

  The woman’s eyes seemed to ignite with happiness. “Yes! That’s my son, Henry. Do come in, come in. Did you say New York? How exciting! Can I fetch you some tea?”

  I felt as though a huge weight had been lifted from my shoulders. “Yes, Mrs. Sawyer, tea sounds lovely.”

  Mrs. Sawyer was a jewel. I fell in love with her almost right away. She had a bubbly personality and she told the most entertaining stories about the ranch and California.

  “When I first came to this ranch, you wouldn’t believe the state of this house!” she exclaimed. “William’s parents had died only months apart before we married and he had let the place go. I spent a month just cleaning the dust away!”

  “Oh my, you must have been dreadfully tired after all that,” I replied.

  “I thought I was near my own deathbed,” she declared. “The most horrible part was when I realized he had the money to hire enough housekeepers to get the job done in a day. He failed to share that information with me, though. I’m telling you the truth when I say I almost divorced that scoundrel right then and there.”

  “Oh, Mrs. Sawyer!” I laughed. “What a story! Did he just not see what you were doing?”

  “He was so focused on running the ranch that he had no clue what was going on in the house. I see that now, but at the time I was mad as a hornet!” she laughed. “And please call me Ina. Mrs. Sawyer is much too formal.”

  I agreed and continued to chat and build a bond.

  “Did I mention that Henry is out with his father, in a business meeting?” she asked.

  I nodded and replied, “You did mention that he would be back shortly, but you didn’t tell me he was with your husband. I hope I get to meet him, too.”

  “You will, my dear, and you will love him,” she said with a wink. “I have finally taught him how to behave in polite company. Hopefully your first experience with my husband will be more pleasant than mine was. I doubt he will expect you to clean his house.” She dissolved into laughter and I joined her.

  The Sawyer home was furnished in the latest designs and fabrics. Some of their pieces were even nicer than what Phillip had sold back in New York. It was clear that this family did not want for anything. I was impressed with her impeccable taste.

  “In all seriousness, Emily, I must tell you that William has made this ranch what it is today. Thirty-five years ago when he took it over it was nothing more than a medium sized farm. I worked side by side with him through the years and I have loved every minute of it.” Ina Sawyer had a twinkle in her eye, but there was a determined look on her face that wasn’t always evident.

  She was a delight, but it was also clear that she had a strict work ethic and that everything they owned was due to her and her husband’s blood, sweat, and tears. I admired that and hoped I would have a similar story to tell someday. Perhaps I would add value alongside her son.

  At last, the front door opened, and two men entered the entry hall. Ina ran over, whispered something to the men, then turned around to introduce them to me. “Emily Graves, this is my husband, William Sawyer. And this,” she gave her son a nudge so he would step forward. “This is our son, Henry.”

  “I’m very pleased to meet you, Miss Graves,” Mr. Sawyer said, with a deep grin on his face.

  I bowed my head to him with a smile. “Likewise, sir,” I replied. I didn’t correct him that I was Mrs. Graves, not Miss Graves. I decided that he would hear my story and learn about my marital status soon enough.

  Then Henry finally stuck his hand out with a reluctant scowl on his face. When I took it, he only gripped my fingers and it was clear he didn’t really want to touch me. I also noticed how quickly he wiped his hand on his handkerchief after we let go of each other. I pretended I didn’t see, but I was quite offended.

  Ina poured more tea, and the four of us sat together in the well-appointed parlor.

  “Emily, dear, why don’t you share with the men the story of what brings you to California,” Ina requested.

  “I have come to Sacramento for a new start,” I began. “My husband was killed in a horse accident a couple of years ago. I have two children and we needed to get away from the pain of the tragedy.”

  “I’m so sorry for your loss, Emily,” responded William. “It must be quite difficult to raise two children alone.”

  “We’re managing. Thank you for your thoughts, William.” I smiled at him to let him see that I was a hopeful person who was trying to take care of my children. “It’s important to me that I do all I can to give my children a good life. That’s why I’m here in California.”

  “What a wonderful mother you must be,” said Ina. “Don’t you agree, Henry? What a selfless thing for a mother to do for her family.”

  “Of course,” Henry responded weakly. It was apparent to me that he was barely paying attention.

  I continued with my story and tried to sound sincere since things seemed to be going well with Henry’s parents. “I realized that I’ve missed being married. I loved my husband and am looking for that kind of love again. Partnership, shared goals, and companionship is also something I feel I need in my life. I want to be in love again and I want to be married.”

  I stole a look at Henry and he was unaffected by my words. His parents looked at each other and winked.

  “And so I saw this advertisement in the paper and I had to come as soon as I saw it.” I continued, hoping to pull Henry into the conversation. “I do apologize that I didn’t write first. I actually didn’t even see the ad until I was already here.”

  “Don’t fret about that, Emily. We’re just glad you’re here now,” William responded warmly.

  Ina Sawyer supported her husband’s statement with a pronounced head nod. “William is right, dear. We’re glad you’re here. And I’m wondering when I’m going to meet those little rascals of yours.”

  William chuckled and intercepted so I didn’t have to answer. “First things first, Ina.”

  She batted her eyes at him and nodded that she would let him have his way this time.

  Henry cleared his throat loudly. I looked at him quickly. I had almost forgotten he was even in the room with us.

  “Emily? Would you care to bring your tea with me to the porch?” he said dispassionately.

  “Certainly, Henry. I’d love some fresh air.”

  We had barely gotten seated in the swing when Ina showed up.

  “I have a bit of gardening to do on my flower beds on the side of the porch. Don’t mind me!” she said cheerily.

  She must have felt that we needed a chaperone, but I didn’t mind at all. It was actually comforting having her a few yards away.

  “So, life on the ranch must be exciting,” I offered to Henry.

  “Not in the least. I’m more of a business man. I don’t see why father insists that I manually run this ranch. We have more than enough money to hire help.”

  “Oh, I don’t know. There must be some sort of satisfaction in tending your own land.”

  “No, there’s not. I wish I could find a way to divert my father’s attention so I can get away and do what I want to do. I actually despise getting dirty. It was always my dream to be a banker. I bet you had a nice cushy life in New York.”

  “My husband passed away, I wouldn’t describe our trials since his departure as cushy.” The words flew out of my mouth faster than I had time to mind them. “Forgive me. It’s been a rough few years.”

  “It’s quite all right. I understand.” He stroked his chin, and I noticed how clean shaven he was. He had blond hair like me, but brown eyes. I recalled the piercing blue eyes of Mr. Gifford. I also recalled how nasty he had been, and decided brown eyes and a smile was better than captivating blue eyes and a serious frown any day.

  “I really should be getting back into town. The children will be getting out of school so
on, and I don’t want them to arrive at our hotel without me there. They will be alarmed.”

  “That’s surely expensive, staying in a hotel each night,” he noted.

  Boy, you’re not kidding, I thought. I was already watching every penny to make sure our money didn’t run out.

  “Well, hopefully it won’t be too much longer before we can get a place and get more settled in.”

  “Do you have a ride back?”

  “No…” I admitted feeling the blush rise in my cheeks. “I’m afraid I didn't think that far ahead.”

  “I’ll be happy to take you back. My father can come with us if you like. I wouldn’t want to tarnish your reputation.”

  “That would be most appreciated.”

  The ride back proved to be interesting. From the way Henry and his father spoke to each other it was clear Henry was not your typical rancher. He seemed to have a sense of entitlement that I did not admire. But when he offered to court me, I really felt I had no other choice but to accept.

  We parted ways with the promise that he would return tomorrow evening for supper down at the restaurant. The children would join us. I knew they would be excited. I wished I was able to be excited.

  Henry was reasonably good looking, very wealthy, and apparently willing—but something wasn’t right. I could feel it. I didn’t know what to do about it or how to figure it out, so I decided to let things happen. If something was wrong, it would come out. Sooner rather than later, I hoped.

  Chapter 8

  The children did seem to like Henry. He joked with them and told them stories that they enjoyed. He had definitely taken some things from his mother. He couldn’t be all bad, could he?

  Despite how much laughter he brought to the children’s lives, I couldn't shake the feeling that something was off about him. Perhaps it was how accepting he had been of me when the first two candidates were a complete waste of time. Perhaps it was that he was so unwelcoming and cold when we first met. He was a true gentleman, pulling chairs out for me, tipping his hat, and paying for our meal that first night.

  But there was a little voice whispering to me this was not the right relationship for us. I knew I would continue to see him until I figured out what he was all about. There was too much at stake to walk away before I knew for sure.

  Our courtship continued and the second Saturday after I had first met the Sawyer family, I took my children to meet Ina and William. Ina had been dying to meet them and she was beside herself when we finally got there.

  When we entered the parlor with Henry, she yelped with joy and scurried past me to hug Vivian and Oliver at the same time. She grabbed them into a big bear hug and I was worried for a moment that they would smother.

  She finally released them and she had tears in her eyes.

  “What’s wrong, Mrs. Sawyer?” asked Vivian. “Did you hurt your arm when you hugged us?”

  Ina smiled at her. “No, dear,” she said. “I’m just really glad to see you.”

  Vivian blushed shyly. Oliver reached over and took Vivian’s hand in support. I could see in his eyes that he thought things were coming together. I felt even worse for getting us into this, because I still believed that I would never marry Henry. Unless I was in a desperate situation, I thought wryly. I supposed that this wasn’t out of the question. Then I turned my brain off and started focusing on our time with the Sawyers.

  “Why don’t we all go out in the back yard. William has set up the croquet game. Children, have you ever played croquet?” Ina asked.

  “No, ma’am. But I think it might be fun,” said Oliver.

  So, we all went outside and played croquet until it was time for supper.

  Dinner was served in the dining room and it consisted of several delicious courses and a decadent dessert. I had reminded the twins about table manners and such so that they wouldn’t offend the elder Sawyers at the table. I had reminded Oliver twice.

  I realized that the children probably wouldn’t appreciate a home cooked meal as I did. I’d forgotten how much I enjoyed cooking and serving a healthy meal to my family. I was tired of eating in the restaurant, but that may have to continue for a while longer.

  Soon after dinner was over, Ina invited me into her drawing room. I followed her down the hall and past Henry’s office on the way. From what I could see as we walked by, his office was meticulously immaculate. He was probably shrewd in his negotiations, though the state of his office was probably not the indicator of a good businessman.

  “So, Emily,” Ina started as we entered her cheery yellow room. “How are things going with Henry?”

  “Fine, Ina. He’s been a perfect gentleman,” I answered. At least that part was true, he had been a gentleman.

  “Good. I won’t tolerate him treating you poorly. I’ve taught him better than to be a rogue.”

  “I’m sure you’ve done a good job. So how’s your garden?” I asked trying to change the subject.

  “The garden is fine. The weather here allows for nice flower beds. I so enjoy vases of cut flowers in the house. Don’t you?”

  “Certainly, I do.” This was the kind of conversation I was hoping for. Small talk, girl talk, nothing important.

  “I know it’s early yet, but do you see yourself with my Henry? As his wife?” Ina boldly asked.

  “Um, Ina, it’s a little too soon to tell, I think. I can’t say yes or no quite yet,” I answered.

  “I don’t mean to pry, dear. I just think you and your twins are the answer to our prayers. We’ve asked God over and over to send a nice and down to Earth woman for Henry. He can be so serious about his work. He needs some balance. We’re hoping that he will settle down and mature. He seems unconnected to the ranch and how it runs. I’m sure that family responsibilities would help ground him and make him understand the importance of family legacy,” she explained.

  “It’s fine, Ina. I understand. But let’s just be patient and see how things go. Alright?”

  “Yes, dear. I’ll be patient.”

  Henry took us back to the hotel after my conversation with Ina was over. The children were tired and even a little cranky. I didn’t invite him for a cup of tea and used the children as an excuse. Luckily, he didn’t seem to be put out by my lack of hospitality and promised to call on me later in the week.

  I breathed a sigh of relief when we were safely back in our room together. Just the three of us. It wasn’t what we needed for long term survival, but for now it was good.

  Henry continued to court me and I grew more reluctant. I needed him until I found another way to conserve the money we had left. I felt a little guilty about it, but Henry took us out for meals often. Or we would have meals with his parents. This went a long way in helping me save money.

  I was still trying to figure out what Henry saw in me. My opinion of him had not improved. He still seemed uncommitted to having a true relationship. Our conversations were superficial and stilted. He engaged the children, but they were easy. They just wanted to laugh and have fun.

  After about a month into our courtship, the truth came crashing to the forefront. Henry and I were having coffee and dessert after dinner in the restaurant. The children were sitting at a table across the room with the owner’s children playing a game.

  “So I’ve been thinking that maybe it would be a good idea for Oliver to come stay at the house with me and my parents. He might enjoy working on the ranch and learning from my father,” Henry said.

  “He has to go to school, Henry,” I responded. “Don’t you have enough people working on the ranch now? How can a little boy help you that much, anyway?”

  “School’s almost out for the summer, isn’t it?”

  “Yes, but again, Henry, how can a little boy help you? He’s only nine years old.” I responded pointedly.

  “Well, he can learn how a ranch works. I think he would enjoy it. It will do him good to work for the summer instead of doing nothing, won’t it? And besides, he can spend time with my father who would love havin
g the little guy around.”

  “I don’t know, Henry. We’ll see what happens in a few weeks when school is over.”

  He scowled a bit, but recovered quickly. “My father could show him the ropes of the ranch. Oliver would keep him occupied,” he continued. He nervously chuckled.

  I was stalling. I felt I had to keep Henry interested until I knew how I would support us when he was out of the picture. I was not going to let my nine year old son live and work on a ranch, but I couldn’t let Henry know that just yet.

  I was about to take the last bite of my chocolate cake when it all fell into place for me. Henry was interested in the three of us as a decoy. He was setting the stage to install us in his parent’s life so that he would be off the hook. Oliver was the first step in the process. Then he could go do what he wanted – away from the ranch.

  A marriage to me wouldn’t work for him. He would want to save marriage for someone he met later who lived where he wanted to live. Even if I could have tolerated being in a marriage for appearances, this isn’t a situation that would help me meet my goal of having a complete family. I had to get out of this, but I had to do it in a way that wouldn’t turn me and the kids out on the streets of Sacramento. I had to get a job first.

  I wasn’t sure how to break the news to the children. They still seemed so enraptured by him. So I decided to keep up the charade for a while longer. I knew Henry wouldn’t be proposing marriage any time soon, so that wasn’t a danger. I didn’t want to deal with him longer than I had to, though, so I needed to find a job quickly.

  Since Pastor Brown had offered me such good advice on the children’s schooling I sought him out to help with my new dilemma, but he wasn’t home. His daughter, Maggie, was there, though. Like her father, she had a solution to my problem.

  “There’s a contracting company in town, it’s owned by my cousin. They need an administrator. It’s mostly paperwork, obtaining signatures, overseeing the deliveries, and bookkeeping.”

  “I think I could do that. I’ve never had a job before, but I’m dependable and I’m determined,” I said.