“Richard, I require a moment of your time … in private.”
“Of course.”
Alex walked Richard to the side of the extension. “I need to know how many employees have access to the trust fund. The Venderkemp and Donovan—”
“There is no need to question the discretion at the bank, Alex. My father is very professional. In direct answer to your question, my father manages the accounts personally. His secretary is the only other person aware of the connection between the orphanage and Papa Stewart. Even I don’t know the value of those accounts.”
Music to his ears. Convinced Sarah’s intentions were sincere, the weight of the world lifted from Alex’s shoulders. He refrained from bellowing with delight, but did not attempt to contain his grin.
“I’ve been spending time with a woman,” Alex confided. “I discovered her brother works at the bank. Andrew.”
“I know him well. Andrew is a good worker and very professional, but does not manage any of your family’s accounts.”
Suddenly, Alex had no desire to visit his extended family. His mind was on Sarah and telephoning her.
The rest of the family arrived and eventually sat for the meal. It took forever for them to eat. The plates were emptied but they continued chatting. Go home. I love you all but go home. Although it was tempting, he suppressed to urge to excuse himself to use the telephone.
After watching the last buggy disappear, Alex walked into the office and picked up the telephone. He apologized for the lack of contact and invited Sarah to dine with his family. They spoke on the telephone every evening.
On Saturday afternoon, Alex stood in front of the mirror and looked at his own reflection. “Momma believes this blue shirt complements my eyes. I hope Sarah agrees.” His eagerness to see Sarah spurred his nerves. His heart pounded into his ears.
Sarah stood at the door to her building in a brown flowing skirt and cream coloured blouse, fiddling with the brooch covering the button at her neckline. In his eyes, her beauty magnified tenfold since their previous encounter. Alex placed his hand on his heart and inhaled.
“Shall we?” he asked. He extended his elbow for her to hold.
Sarah chatted and Alex attempted to respond as they travelled to the orphanage. Approaching the building, music guided them toward the parlour.
“It’s one of my favourite pieces,” she admitted. She hummed as they entered the room.
Alex’s father and grandfather, always gentlemen, stood to greet them. After introductions, Alex sat on the sofa, ensuring room for Sarah to join him.
When asked, Sarah discussed her family, life, and marriage and she listened intently while his momma, papa, and Izabella spoke of their lives since moving into a building surrounded by children, medical staff, and volunteers.
“I find myself amazed Alex was not married by eighteen, given the number of volunteers in this building.”
Alex never uttered a sound.
“Alex is a shy young man,” his papa responded. “The volunteers found it necessary to approach him.”
“I’m not surprised.” She turned to face him. “If I had volunteered, I would have approached you.”
“Please, do not volunteer in this building,” Alex begged. “It will be impossible to complete any work while you’re present.”
“Perhaps I made an error in judgment when accepting a full-time position at the mercantile. I’m unable to see a handsome blue-eyed bachelor on a more regular basis.”
Heat penetrated his face. A blood rush warmed his entire body. Closing his eyes, he could hear his family chuckling.
Three hours later, with the meal complete, momma invited Sarah to dine the following night with their extended family. Standing to escort Sarah home, Alex dreaded saying goodnight. The orphanage children were settled for the evening, and the volunteers had departed for the day. Able to stroll in private, he led Sarah outside.
With the horse hitched to the buggy and the sun setting behind the horizon, Alex gazed into her eyes. Although tempted, kissing her cheek was out of the question. His hands became clammy simply contemplating such an aggressive move. He inhaled deeply.
“May I kiss your hand?”
“You may.”
As Sarah extended her hand toward him, Alex noticed movement at his grandfather’s window. Papa is looking out the window of his private quarters. We have an audience. Frozen, the awkward silence turned uncomfortable. This is dreadful. Speak. Say something. Anything. “I am certain you will like my sister Rose and her husband Richard. Growing up, I admired Rose’s personality. We are quite the opposite, but possess a strong bond. I have developed a friendship with her husband in the past two years.”
“I’m looking forward to meeting them.” Silence again. “You may recall I enjoy music.”
Sarah had spoken of her love for music and studying at the conservatory. Elaine spoke of her talent being superior to her late husband John. In Alex’s opinion, John had been magnificent that evening.
“Yes, of course.”
“I’ve been asked to perform a short piece at a concert. If you’re interested, I will request a guest ticket. You would be sitting with my momma, poppa, Andrew, and Ingrid.”
Excited by the prospect, Alex nodded, smiling. “It will be an honour to hear you play.”
Shifting his focus to the addition, he quickly scanned the windows for an audience. Pleased, he turned his attention back to Sarah, reached for her hand, and raised it toward his face. After a gentle kiss, he assisted her into the buggy. Alex took his place beside her and guided the horses to her home. Returning to the orphanage, Alex went to his papa’s quarters.
* * *
“Poor Alex. The anxiety of that first kiss. You want it so bad you can taste it.”
“Nice one, Keegh.”
“I thought you’d appreciate the little pun in that one.”
Keeghan looked toward Alex. Even a slight smile would have been nice, but nothing. His facial expression never changed. “You’re not going to break up with her, are you? I like Sarah.”
Alex pointed back toward the screen.
* * *
Stewart was tired after entertaining Alex and Sarah, but eager to speak with his grandson. Leaving the door to their sitting room open, Stewart and Izabella relaxed on the sofa and began talking. Neither were surprised when Alex appeared at the doorway.
“Are you accustomed to standing at your window, gazing out? I assure you, the back of the property offers a serene view. I was attempting to say goodnight.”
“It’s my understanding saying goodnight is verbal.” Stewart kept a straight face. “My humble apologies if we interrupted, but I recall being interrupted many years ago.”
Izabella’s face flushed. Her hands flew onto her cheeks. They often spoke of the afternoon Alex walked into their room while they were intimate. Izabella pushed herself off the sofa, but Stewart reached for her hand, encouraging her to remain.
“Stewart. Your silence would be appreciated,” she remarked, her tone very serious.
“Interrupted?” Alex questioned.
“Yes. We were forced to invite your momma and poppa to enter our bedroom.”
“Stewart,” Izabella groaned as she scowled.
Alex’s attention shifted to Izabella for a brief moment and then back to him. “I have a faint memory of climbing onto your bed. I entered your room while waiting for Poppa to come upstairs.”
Seeing the sparkle in Alex’s eyes, his grandson had recollections of the day. “You startled us. I wasn’t aware I was capable of moving so quickly.”
“Oh my.” Alex chuckled. “My timing was…?”
“Atrocious.”
Alex’s chuckle turned into a soft laugh. “I believe I wanted a hug.”
“I desired more than an embrace.” When Stewart winked at Alex, his grandson’s laugher echoed through the room.
Izabella titled her head down and covered her face with her hands.
“Your poppa was upset,” Stew
art continued.
Alex leaned against the doorframe. “I wasn’t reprimanded often, but I recall that day. Poppa wasn’t pleased with my lack of manners. Entering your room without permission.”
“We heard your poppa laughing as he entered our sitting room, much to your momma’s dismay. I gained admiration and respect for Adam that afternoon. After making light of the … let’s say compromising situation, he turned to you and raised his voice regarding your ‘inappropriate’ visit.”
“You welcomed Momma and Poppa into your room.”
“I did. Neither Izabella nor I were capable of guiding you from our room, attired as God brought us into this world.”
Izabella shifted on the sofa, turning her back to Alex and Stewart. With her hair pulled back into a pony tail, he could see her ears had turned a wonderful shade of scarlet red.
“I regret my decision to remain in your company for this visit,” she grumbled.
“I cannot imagine being interrupted while intimate,” Alex remarked, keeping his voice only slightly above a whisper. “I destroyed the mood, but it is apparent the relationship was not harmed.”
“You didn’t destroy the mood, but the door got locked upon your exit.”
Izabella turned and glared at Stewart.
“I question whether it’s possible to embarrass you. You have become worse as you age, Stewart.” She turned her attention to Alex. “Sarah is a beautiful, compassionate, caring young woman. Your face glows and your eyes sparkle with the mention of her name, and a vision of her face enters your mind.”
“That also occurred in the presence of Elaine.”
“Alex,” Stewart groaned, “how is it possible you don’t feel the glow on your face or the warmth in your body? I’m able to sense the glow when thinking of Izabella. I know it’s more apparent when she’s with me. You possessed a slight glow while courting Christine and a strong glow during your early courtship of Elaine, but it soon faded. A blind man could sense the twinkle that appears in your eyes when Sarah is present. You must close your eyes and listen to your heart.”
“My heart led me to Elaine.”
Izabella scowled, deep lines showing on her forehead and around her mouth. “It did not. Your eyes led you to a handsome face. You did not listen to your heart or your brain. Your momma and I are relieved you did not marry her. I would have missed dining on Sunday evenings with this family.”
Alex looked at Izabella. “To this day I still find it difficult to distinguish your wit from a serious comment.”
Izabella never responded, so Alex turned his attention back to Stewart.
“You tell me to follow my heart, not my eyes, but Sarah is far more beautiful than Elaine.”
“In your eyes, but not to the rest of the world. You fear being hurt, Alex. I’m not able to state with certainty neither you nor Sarah will be hurt, but I am encouraging you to allow Sarah to enter your heart.”
Alex took a deep breath, puffed out his cheeks and then bit his bottom lip.
“Rose spoke of her disappointment in the kiss she witnessed between you and Elaine,” Stewart continued. “I hope you and Sarah are able to share a wow kiss.”
Alex placed his hand over his forehead, shielding his eyes and face.
“I’m confident you are yet to experience one,” Stewart added.
Alex’s hands lowered. He looked at his grandfather. “Looking into Sarah’s eyes, I find it difficult to lift her hand to my face. I cannot fathom bringing my lips to hers.”
“It will be worth the wait.”
Alex looked at the ceiling, rolled his eyes and then stood up. “Goodnight, Papa. Goodnight, Izabella.”
“Goodnight.”
* * *
Adam entered their bedroom for the night.
“Have you seen Alex?” Hope asked, placing her novel on her lap and adjusting the bedspread over her legs.
“Our son is visiting Stewart and Izabella.”
“Leave our door open, Adam. I need to speak with him once they’re done.”
Hearing movement in the hallway, Hope gave Alex a few minutes to settle, pulled her shawl over her dressing gown, and followed Adam out of their room. Adam knocked. Giggling echoed from behind the closed door. An infectious, contagious laugh. Hope burst into laughter as she opened the door. “You’re sitting alone in your room. You must tell us the cause of your laughter,” she begged, entering the room.
“Papa spoke of the afternoon I was taught to knock and wait for a response.”
My word. Her giggles stopped. Heat flushed her entire body. Her hands went to her cheeks. “I still find myself embarrassed when I recall the day.”
“You didn’t appreciate the opportunity to see Papa resting with Izabella?” Alex asked. He grinned, mocking her.
Hope shifted her attention to Adam as he chuckled. After seeing her poppa in such a compromising position, Adam had become even more comfortable in the company of her father and Izabella. Adam was still shy, but was able to show her some affection while in their presence. Hope appreciated that outcome.
“No, but your momma and I shared an enjoyable afternoon.”
Hope’s jaw dropped as her eyelids widened. “A-dam,” she groaned. “I regret encouraging you to spend time with Poppa. I miss my shy, quiet husband.” She turned her attention to their son. “I enjoyed becoming acquainted with Sarah.”
“You appreciate her spunk,” Alex responded.
“I admit, that is true.” Hope nodded. Sarah was a delight and the fact Tom knew her and encouraged the acquaintance gave Hope a warm sensation in her heart.
“Rose will appreciate her spunk. I also appreciated the twinkle in your eyes and the glow on your face while she sat by your side. Your Nana Natasha is looking down from heaven, pleased to see the Donovan sparkle in your eyes.”
“It’s difficult to distinguish whose eyes were sparkling more,” Adam remarked. “Your papa’s, your momma’s, or your own eyes. I agree with your description of Sarah. She possesses beautiful green eyes and a warm smile.”
Alex smiled, nodding.
* * *
Sarah arrived at the orphanage shortly after church on Sunday. Sitting under a tree, Alex and Sarah were enjoying their time together when Rose and Richard arrived for their weekly meal. The newlyweds joined them and the chatter continued until their father came outside.
“It’s time to leave to get Nana Venderkemp,” Poppa announced.
“Alex and I will go,” Sarah responded.
* * *
Sarah and Nana had a pleasant conversation during the journey back to the orphanage, getting acquainted. Once they returned home, Rose joined them in the parlour.
“I’m pleased to say I approve of your judgment, Alex,” Rose announced when he entered the room. “Sarah has a sense of humour.”
Alex sat beside Sarah and winked at her before turning his attention to his sister. “It is pleasing to know Sarah meets with your high standards, my dear sister. Your list of criteria was extensive.”
The women were still chatting and giggling when the Carsons arrived.
Chapter Four
Alex entered the dining room with his plate of eggs, cooked ham and toast. Papa looked up from the newspaper and placed his coffee cup on the table.
“I require your assistance for an errand, Alex. May I suggest changing into something more suitable to accompany me in the city?”
“The city?” Alex sat on his normal chair. “Where are we going?”
“That is not your concern at the moment. I expect you to be at the buggy in fifteen minutes. Does that give you enough time?”
“Yes.”
Papa walked up the private staircase, leaving Alex to eat.
Alex steered the team toward the city.
“Lead the horses to the left, Alex.”
To the left was a retail establishment with a few automobiles for sale.
“Papa. Are you considering a change in your career? I didn’t know you had an interest in selling new technolo
gy, or perhaps you have a secret talent and are capable of designing or building an automobile.”
“My poppa taught me a person is never too old to learn, but I do not plan to start another career. I’m seeking an automobile for your personal use.”
“For me?” Both shocked and apprehensive Alex stared at his papa. “I don’t need an automobile. We cannot afford an automobile.”
“That will be decided once I’m quoted a price. Both Izabella and your momma approve of Sarah. An automobile will enable you to see her more regularly. I would be pleased if you would join me while I examine them.”
“Papa, legally, I don’t know the requirements to operate a motorized vehicle.”
“I’ve already enquired. A minor test is required. I do not doubt your ability to pass. Nor do I doubt Adam and Richard’s ability.”
“Richard—”
“I will be seeking an automobile for Richard and Rose’s use, but I would appreciate your discretion on this matter. I plan to surprise your sister with this belated wedding gift.”
Alex stepped off the buggy and walked toward the first vehicle.
The following day, Alex returned to the city with his father and grandfather. A week later, Alex sat proudly and confidently behind the steering wheel and drove the Renault home.
Saturday afternoon, Alex stopped the automobile at Sarah’s apartment, tucked his navy shirt into his beige trousers, and walked to the entrance of her building and knocked.
“Good afternoon. You must join me outside. I suggest you lock the door.” He looked at the apron covering her dark skirt and frilly blouse. “Assuming the meal does not require your attention.”
“I require a moment.”
Sarah disappeared down the hallway. Returning she locked the door to her home, and followed Alex out of the building. He reached for her hand and led her to the Renault. Automobiles were becoming more common, but she wasn’t aware the Venderkemps could afford the luxury. The finances of the orphanage wasn’t a topic he intended to discuss. Not at this stage of their relationship.
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