Edith and the Mysterious Stranger

by Linda Weaver Clarke

  “Well? Is he coming?”

  Edith nodded, not able to say a word. When it was seven o’clock, she realized that her excitement had turned to nervousness. And then she became pale as she started to question herself and her feelings for this man. Doubts were coming in all forms and directions. She was getting cold feet. The old feelings were coming back. When she doubted the man’s ability to rise to her expectations, she would not give the man another chance.

  As she paced the floor, questions gradually invaded her mind. What if he was not what she expected? What if he was dull in person and exciting only in his letters? What if he had a long nose and bulging eyes? What if he was way shorter than she? Heaven forbid! That would be awful. Most men she met were shorter than she was, and this dismayed her.

  Oh my, this was not going well! Edith shook her head. “No, if he had a long nose, I would love it. The person in those letters is whom I care about, not his looks. Besides, we’re only friends.” Then her eyes widened as she asked herself, “But what if he doesn’t like me in person?”

  After grabbing a bite to eat, she brushed her hair once again so it lay smooth about her shoulders. Then she walked to the sofa and sat down with a book. She opened it and tried to read, but her mind was elsewhere. She laid it on the sofa, took a deep breath, and let it out slowly, hoping to release some tension. She could not sit still any longer, so she hopped up and ran to a mirror in the hallway and checked her hair. Then she went into the kitchen to see how her mother was doing.

  When Martha looked up, she asked, “Why are you so nervous?”

  “Me? Nervous? Why do you ask?”

  Martha slowly shook her head and pursed her lips. “Edith, you’re my daughter. I can see when you’re anxious and worried about something.”

  “Oh.”

  “Well?”

  “What’s he like, Mama?”

  “Don’t you know? You’ve been writing for several months now.”

  “I mean on the outside, not the inside.”

  “Oh. Well, I think he’s good looking, but everyone has his own expectations.”

  A knock sounded at the door, and Edith’s eyes widened as she gasped. “Mama, you get it.”

  Martha shook her head. “I think it’s time for the both of you to meet. I’ll be upstairs.”

  Then she walked out of the kitchen and out of sight. Edith stood frozen to the spot. Another knock came from the door and she tried to move, but her feet were not obedient. Nervousness had taken over, and she tried to overcome it by taking a few deep breaths. Her hands were trembling with anticipation, and her heart pounded furiously. When she noticed that her deep breaths were making her faint, she decided that deep breathing was not such a good idea after all. After a third knock, she let out a puff of air and then walked toward the door and opened it.

  Standing before her was a Spanish bandito. He looked just like a desperado, and he fit the part perfectly. He was dressed all in black. He had on black boots, pants, shirt and hat. His black mask covered part of his nose and eyebrows, and all she could see were his soft blue eyes gazing at her. Between her uneasiness and her delight in seeing him, she was not sure how to greet him. Should she extend her hand for a handshake or what?

  Edith stood back and said politely, “Won’t you come in, Señor Bandito?”

  The bandito walked in with a grin on his face. He shut the door behind him and then stood still as his eyes swept over her. She was a vision of loveliness—breathtaking with her rich, dark hair hanging softly to her shoulders and a red flower next to her cheek. Her dark brown eyes sparkled with happiness and her olive complexion glowed. He couldn’t help but notice how her dress enhanced the gentle curves of her figure.

  When Edith saw how he was looking at her, she blushed and lowered her eyes. The way he was gazing at her made her feel beautiful.

  Seeing that he had embarrassed her, he quickly spoke with a Spanish accent, “Señorita, como estas?”

  Just hearing his voice sent her spirits soaring. It was low and gentle. Edith raised her eyes and smiled. She knew just a little Spanish and replied, “I’m fine, thank you. And you?”

  Afraid she would recognize his voice, he tried to avoid speaking English. If he really needed to, then he planned to whisper. He took her hand in his and said, “Señorita Bonita,” which meant “Beautiful Lady.”

  Then he bowed, tenderly lifted her hand, and pressed his lips intimately against the back of her hand, sending a tingling up her arm and to her heart. Edith’s eyes widened as she blushed. “Señor, do you kiss the hand of every señorita you meet?”

  “Solamente tu.”

  “Only me?” Edith’s eyes lowered once again and she blushed a second time.

  The bandito nodded. “Sabes Español?”

  Edith shook her head. “No, I don’t know much Spanish, Señor. Sorry.”

  The bandito smiled as if amused by her shy mannerisms. Still holding her hand in his, not wanting to let go, he whispered, “Señorita, you surprise me. Why are you so reserved with me? We have written to one another for several months now. I believe we know one another better than the average couple. We have told one another our innermost feelings and desires in life. Why are you holding back?”

  Edith shook her head and took a deep breath. “I don’t know.”

  The bandito smiled. Edith’s attitude was amusing. His blue eyes studied her intently, searching for an answer. She looked so appealing to him. As he gazed warmly upon her, he realized this woman was very special—special to him. Not only that, he had fallen for her and he knew it. There was no question about it.

  A strong desire to kiss her rose deeply within him as his eyes trailed to her rosy lips. With an impulse of tenderness, he took her by the shoulders and placed a gentle kiss on her luscious lips.

  He was surprised at the depth of his emotions. Her closeness and tender kiss had their effects on him, causing his heart to pick up speed and turn his senses to mush. He had not planned to be so forward, but he could not help himself. He had fallen in love with Edith.

  Without hesitation, he pulled her into his arms and deepened the kiss. When he noticed that she was kissing him right back, he smiled inwardly and pulled her against his chest as he kissed her a second time with just as much passion.

  When the bandido released her lips and gazed into her eyes, delicious warmth filled his inner soul. A rush of love spread through him. He was smitten and he knew it. He ran his hand down the softness of her dark tresses, feeling the thick curls beneath his fingers. The scent of it smelled like rose water. She smelled absolutely delicious. He gently touched her face, feeling the smoothness of her skin beneath his palm. He noticed that she took in a deep breath and blushed as he touched her cheek.

  Unable to help himself, he cupped her face in his hand and slightly lifted her chin, and then gently pressed his warm lips to hers once again. He slowly enfolded her in his arms and held her close, feeling the softness of her in his embrace, caressing her back, and falling deeper in love than ever before. Warmth enveloped him as he finally realized his true feelings for her and his inner desires. It was definitely time to go. He had lost his heart and had overstayed his visit.

  He slowly stepped backwards as he gradually slid his hands down her arms, causing her to gasp. He smiled as he took her hands in his and squeezed them lovingly. When he gazed into her eyes, he noticed that his touch had taken her breath away. This made the bandido grin.

  He quickly backed up, bowed, and then turned on his heels and walked toward the door. He gave a wink over his shoulder and said with a charming smile, “Adios, Señorita. Vaya con Dios.” Then he closed the door behind him.

  Edith was dazed and her breathing was shallow. She swallowed and then drew in a breath, feeling a little lightheaded. What had just happened? She knew what had happened. That kiss had not only sent her a message of his adoring love, but it completely changed their relationship. He had actually sealed his love with a simple kiss. That was what had happened. In fact, it was
more than just a simple kiss. That kiss definitely had its effects on her, causing her heart to beat erratically.

  Edith was surprised when he had taken her into his arms. It was completely unexpected. She was not only unprepared, but she was surprised at the emotions spreading through her. She felt happier than she had ever been in her entire life. And she knew this was what it felt like to be in love and to be cherished by another. His hands were strong and his gentle touch made her heart sing. When he had pulled her into his arms, her spirits rose, and a warm glow filled her heart. His lingering kiss had made her heart skip several beats and she realized she could not love anyone but this mysterious stranger.

  From now on, she would not think of him as just a friend. She knew that much. Not after that delectable kiss. Not after it had made her feel wanted and needed.

  Edith collapsed upon the sofa. As she tried to relive what had just happened, she realized that his voice was low and pleasant sounding. She was not disappointed in him at all.

  “Vaya con Dios,” she thought to herself. She knew what that meant. He had told her, “May God be with you.” She smiled to herself.

  That was such a nice thought. She relaxed into the comfort of the sofa with a smile playing at the corners of her mouth. Edith’s mind lingered on his words and his intimate kiss. Her eyes closed as she recalled the evening and the softness of his lips once again…and again…and again.

  Chapter 26

  The Halloween Party

  The Halloween party at Gilbert and Melinda’s home had been going on for an hour. The atmosphere was joyous. The laughter of excitement and friendship filled the room. Everyone was dressed in festive colorful costumes except for Joseph. When Gilbert questioned him, he claimed to be a champion bronco rider. Gilbert burst into laughter.

  While Gilbert was talking to Henry and Joseph, Melinda was seated on the sofa, listening to the men’s conversations. Gilbert was telling the men about the wonderful change of attitude that had come over David when Edith arrived in her Spanish Senorita costume.

  As the family entered, Melinda stood and greeted them. William gave her a little hug and then joined the men to chat, while Martha and Edith sat beside Melinda and asked how she had been doing.

  “Oh, I’m much better. I have a tougher time getting up from the sofa, but that’s all. At least I’m not waddling like a duck, as of yet.”

  The women’s laughter spread through the room and drew the men’s attention. Edith noticed Henry watching her intently, grinning from ear to ear. And Joseph’s countenance was sober and intense as his eyes met hers.

  Melinda took Edith’s hand in hers and they leaned toward each other, heads touching. She looked into Edith’s eyes and whispered, “So, tell me about tonight. How did it go?”

  “Oh.” It came out breathlessly. “It was wonderful. He was wonderful. Everything was wonderful.”

  “Is that the only description you know?”

  “Breathtaking!” she blurted out.

  Melinda laughed under her breath. “Do you know who the mysterious stranger is yet?”

  Edith instantly became serious. “Melinda, I don’t know who he is. There’s one thing that I feel certain about, though.”

  “And what’s that?”

  “I believe he’s someone that I haven’t even met.”

  “But how about Henry?”

  “Henry’s kind, intelligent, diplomatic, and a well-mannered gentleman. But at the same time he’s so confident and sure of himself that I fear he would always be right, and I would always be wrong, no matter what subject we discuss. But on the other hand, he’s just so darn sweet, wants to help me all the time, always complimenting me, and treating me like a defenseless female.”

  Melinda giggled, covering her mouth with her hand.

  Martha smiled and then rested her hand upon her daughter’s and said, “How about Joseph?”

  Edith rolled her eyes in dismay. “I don’t know, Mama. I don’t really want to talk about it. Okay?”

  Martha nodded and smiled, as if pleased for some reason.

  Melinda was eager to know more details of the evening, so she whispered softly, “Tell us about the visit with your mysterious stranger.”

  Edith smiled. “Melinda, he’s so special. He’s more than I had expected.”

  Melinda said anxiously, “Tell me what happened to bring on this mood of yours.”

  Edith looked at her and said with a dreamy expression, “A miracle has happened. I’ve fallen in love.”

  Melinda’s eyes widened as she exclaimed, “What?”

  She was surprised, to say the least, but when she expressed herself at that moment, it was not a soft whisper. It was heard throughout the whole room and it immediately got the attention of everyone.

  When Melinda looked up, the room was silent and her husband was staring at her. She quickly took a deep breath and held her belly, as if the baby had given a powerful kick. “Oh, it’s nothing. I’ll be fine.”

  Martha laughed and Edith suppressed a smile.

  After the men started talking again, Melinda turned to Edith and asked, “Are you sure?”

  “Yes, I am. I feel it deep inside. I’ve never been more sure of anything in my entire life, nor have I felt these feelings for anyone before. I was so nervous at first, but he’s just like his letters. He’s very romantic.”

  Martha smiled. “Romantic? Did he hug you before he left to make you feel this way?”

  Edith blushed. “Well, sort of.”

  Melinda’s eyes widened and her mouth fell open when she saw her cousin redden. “Edith! He kissed you, didn’t he?”

  It was not a question but a statement, and Martha and Edith both knew it. She was not asking. She was stating a fact.

  Edith hesitated for a moment and then nodded.

  Melinda raised her eyebrows. “No!”

  Edith blushed even redder. “Yes!”

  Melinda glanced at the men and said, “Let’s change the subject or we’re going to draw attention to us, especially with that beautiful rosy color all over your cheeks.” Melinda smiled. “Especially Joseph. I’ve noticed how he’s been watching you ever since you arrived.”

  Edith nodded. “I agree.”

  The women headed for the table and helped themselves to the delicious food.

  Gilbert joined them and asked, “How are you doing, Martha?”

  “Just fine, Gilbert. And you?”

  “Can’t complain.”

  Henry poured apple cider in a glass and handed it to Edith as he looked her up and down. “My, my! You’re absolutely charming this evening in your costume, Edith.”

  “Thank you, Henry.”

  “When are you going back home?”

  “After the baby’s born.”

  He nodded. “It’s good that Melinda has someone to depend on.” He glanced at Joseph and gave a haughty grin. “By the way, I thoroughly enjoyed myself at the dance the other night. How about you?”

  “Yes. It was nice.”

  He looked at Joseph once again and added, “You’re a great dance partner.” Then he buttered a piece of bread and handed it to her, all the while looking smugly at Joseph.

  Edith noticed how he was so helpful in front of others. But why all this attention and why was he glancing at Joseph?

  Smiling affectionately, he said, “By the way, I expect it might snow here in a couple of weeks. We always get some before Thanksgiving.”

  Henry glanced at Joseph, gave a smirk once again as he touched Edith’s arm affectionately. “But you have to admit, Edith, there’s no place lovelier to live during the Christmas season than here in Bear Lake Valley. There’s no comparison. This is the best land on earth with the best people. Don’t you agree?”

  “Absolutely. Although, I’ve met some wonderful people everywhere I go, Henry.”

  Henry smiled and continued flirting with Edith, handing her things to eat, touching her on the arm frequently, and glancing at Joseph to see if he was watching.

  Gilber
t and Joseph had been talking. But after watching Henry’s flirtations, Joseph was fed up with it. He had had enough. He was not interested in the way Henry was looking at Edith, the way he smiled at her, or the way he was touching her.

  He felt his chest tighten when Henry gave him an insolent smile and sidled up to Edith. Joseph took a deep breath and let it out in a huff. He abruptly excused himself and strode out the door.

  Melinda looked at Gilbert questioningly and whispered, “What was that all about?”

  “Don’t know.”

  Chapter 27

  The Waddling Stage

  After all the guests left, Gilbert cleared off the table while Melinda rested on the sofa. She was always exhausted by the end of the day, a natural feeling when “her time” was so close. Gilbert stacked the bowls and glasses in the sink to be done in the morning. Everyone was too tired to wash dishes this evening. Jenny walked into the kitchen and began helping her father put away the food.

  “Pa, how many showed up this year?”

  “About a dozen people. Henry and Joseph came last.”

  “I heard Henry really likes Edith. She told me that he’s taken her several times to the town socials to dance.”

  Melinda announced triumphantly. “Not any more.”

  Gilbert took a wet washcloth from the sink and wiped the table. “Why do you say that?”

  “Oh, because I know something you don’t.”

  “And what’s that?” Gilbert asked, enjoying her little game of reeling him in with curiosity.

  Melinda propped her arm on the back of the sofa. “She’s in love.”

  Both Gilbert and Jenny blurted out simultaneously, “What?”

  Melinda laughed at their open mouths and wide-eyed expressions. It was Gilbert who asked the pertinent question.

  “With whom, may I ask?”

  “I don’t know.”

  Gilbert dropped the rag on the edge of the sink and wiped his hands dry. “What do you mean?”

  “Simply that I don’t know. She’s fallen in love with this new friend she’s been writing to.”