God forgive me. All I could think of was saving myself …
“As it happens, I’ve been honorably discharged.”
Mac snapped back to the conversation at hand.
“My military exploits are over.” Taylor fingered his thick brown mustache. “Now I find myself rather persuaded by the American experience, thanks to you and Blake, and I’m looking for a business endeavor.”
“Are you?” Mac couldn’t believe his ears. Another miracle. If he hadn’t been persuaded of God’s existence days ago when Lily battled for her life, he would be convinced now.
“Father? Prescott?” He placed a hand on Taylor’s shoulder. “Say hello to Albright Shipping’s real salvation.”
Lily smiled and waved to Mr. Martin as he drove his wagon down Mac’s creekside pathway to the pike. Mac’s cabin now boasted of three chairs and a large, round table.
From her place on the wagon bench, she turned to Issie, who bounced baby Amanda in her arms. “I’d never set eyes on this cabin until two days ago,” she said. Even so, she hadn’t yet seen the inside of it. She had only been moving about without pain for a few days.
“The captain intends for it to be a future bunkhouse for hired hands.” Issie spoke with confidence. “But he’ll reside in it this winter. Wouldn’t you like to have a look around inside?”
“No, thank you.” It meant crossing a grassy lane. “I’ve wondered about Mac’s intentions for the near future.” In fact, for the better part of two weeks, pondering was about all Lily managed to do as she recovered from her snakebite. The fever had returned the day after Mac, Mr. Blake, and the boys left Middletown, but it disappeared by the next day and, though the pain in her arm was better, it still required a sling. “James’s donation idea is a good one.”
Issie bobbed her head, and the rim of her bonnet rippled like a soft current. “I thought so too. And if each of our church families gives one piece of furniture, the captain will have his winter home completely furnished. By spring, he’ll be building Fairview, his impressive manor on the hill.”
“You know of his building plans?” Lily tipped her head.
“Oh, yes.” Issie pushed the bonnet up off her forehead, and her hazel eyes danced when they met with sparkles of sunshine. “He was taking supper with James and me quite often, and we became very well acquainted. Of course, James was helping the captain build his barn and all. Talk of building was their favorite topic at the table.”
“It’s a beautiful barn, indeed.” The entire yard was evidence of Mac’s tireless efforts. The grass and weeds had been cut or cleared, and sturdy snake-rail fences enclosed various pens and corrals. “I’ve never seen the barnyard look so well groomed. Papa would be impressed, I think.”
“I think so too.” Issie smiled. “James promised to come over and look after the mules in the captain’s absence. That’s when he got the idea for furnishing the cabin.” She lifted her shoulders and giggled. “Won’t the captain be surprised?”
“I’m sure he will be.” Lily felt a little left out of Mac’s life. It seemed her best friend knew more about the man she loved than she did. Then again, Mac had been rudely avoiding her—until the day they kissed in the creek.
Lily hid a secret smile. Her cheeks flamed at the memory. What in the world had she been thinking? Any number of people could have happened upon their disgraceful behavior.
“Are you all right?” Issie leaned closer. “You look a bit feverish again.”
“It’s nothing.” Lily pushed out a smile, hoping it concealed her chagrin. If she and Mac were to have an understanding, then she would insist on propriety at all times.
But was that even possible? Somehow Mac possessed powers that set her common sense askew.
Issie tugged on Lily’s left elbow. “If you don’t want to tour the cabin, let’s sit in the shade by the barn.”
“I’d prefer to stay here on the wagon.”
Issie tipped her head. “But the sun is withering the flowers in your straw hat.”
“The blooms are silk, you goose.” Lily rolled her eyes. However, the truth was that she didn’t venture far these days and when she did, it was by buggy or wagon. Her horrifying encounter had left her overly cautious, and she avoided walking through meadows or sitting in the grassy shade.
“I promise to chase away any snake that dares to approach us.”
Lily swiveled and met Issie’s smiling face. “How do you always guess what I’m thinking?”
“I’ve known you all my life. You’re my second best friend.”
“Second?” Lily drew back. “Who has taken my first place?”
“Why, James, of course.” A knowing little gleam entered Issie’s eyes. “And soon I will be replaced as your first best friend.”
“No, never.” Despite her reply, Lily had a hunch what was coming.
“I’m prepared to hand off my position to a certain former sea captain in whose yard we are sitting.”
“Are you, now?” Though Lily feigned insult, a wide smile gave her away. “Well, as a matter of fact, that certain former sea captain and I have an understanding between us.” She’d only told Aunt Hilda, who wasn’t a bit surprised by the news. She even approved, although she thought a year was too long a wait. Young love must have its way, she’d said, adding that Mr. Everett could inflict much damage in all that time, particularly if he did, indeed, own Haus am Bach.
“What sort of an understanding do you and Captain Albright have?” Issie placed Amanda over her shoulder and patted her back.
“An understanding that we’ll take time to get to know one another. Exclusively.”
“Like a courtship?”
“I suppose so, although he didn’t use those exact words.”
“I’ve never heard of such a thing as an understanding. Is it popular in Alexandria?”
“Must be.”
Issie adjusted her bonnet. “Sounds like one of those stuffy British formalities.”
“Perhaps it is.” Lily lowered her chin and traced the pattern of her dress with her forefinger. “I told him I loved him.”
Issie gasped. “You barely know him.”
“True, but that’s the purpose of our understanding—to get to know each other.”
Confusion settled on Issie’s brow. “Then it’s a courtship, you goose.”
“Whatever it is, I know what I feel in my heart.”
Issie smiled. “Then it must be love.”
Lily leaned closer. “I never felt this way, Issie. Not even about Oliver Ashton.”
Issie churned out a groan. “Why must you always bring up that man’s name?”
“For a comparison, is all.” Lily hurled a glance toward the azure sky.
Issie pursed her lips and narrowed her gaze. “I don’t believe you really love the captain.”
“What?” Surely Lily hadn’t heard her friend correctly. “I know how I feel.”
“Prove your love then.”
Lily rose to the challenge, her chin held high. “What would you have me do?”
“Climb down from this wagon and walk to yonder shady spot.” Issie pointed toward the barn.
“But I saw a black snake there.” Even as she spoke the last word, the recollection of being held in Mac’s strong arms overshadowed the reptile sighting.
“You cannot be a farmer’s wife if you’re frightened of harmless black racers or rat snakes. Now, climb down, Lily.” Issie’s voice took on a pleading note. “The sun is baking me, and I must think of my child. It’s not good for Amanda to get a sunburn.”
“No, of course not.” Still, Lily hesitated, surveying the yard for the slightest movement in the short grass.
“I’ll go first.” Issie set the baby in Lily’s lap.
Lily held Amanda fast with her left arm while Issie climbed down. Scooting carefully to the edge of the bench, she leaned over so Issie could reclaim her precious bundle.
“Your turn.”
Even with one arm in a sling, Lily easily made her de
scent off the wagon. It was hardly a foreign activity, and yet it left her feeling slightly dizzy.
“First, you must tour the captain’s cabin.”
“Well …” Fingers of trepidation slithered down Lily’s spine. She glanced at the wagon.
“Stop fretting. We will be fine.”
Issie led Lily along like a second child. They tramped across the grassy area. Not a single reptile in sight. They reached the cabin and stepped up to what resembled the beginnings of a front porch.
Issie opened the door and waved Lily inside. The scent of hand-hewn wood and tar filled the place. A stone hearth occupied the wall at the far end of the L-shaped cabin. Off the one main room was a bedroom.
“Mrs. Butterworth donated her late husband’s bed. As you know, he fell while hunting last November.”
“Yes, I recall the accident. It happened just before Papa died.”
“And, look … she made it up with linen sheets and a quilt.” Issie sat on the edge of the bed and bounced. “Comfortable.”
Lily rolled her eyes at her friend’s antics. “Some folks never grow up.”
Issie rolled out her bottom lip, feigning a pout.
“It’s easy to see where Amanda gets her good looks.” Smiling, Lily walked back into the single sitting room, wondering where Mac intended to cook his meals. In the hearth most likely. Would he want his table and chairs on that end, or would he prefer them on the other side? She tapped her chin with her forefinger in indecision. If Mac placed the table and chairs by the hearth, then he’d forfeit places near the fire to sit and read on cold, snowy days. But if he placed the table and chairs near the entrance to the bedroom, he would have room enough to invite guests for supper …
Would Mac have guests? He didn’t seem the type. However, if he had a wife, she might invite folks, and they’d all sit down and eat and talk.
“Are you decorating Mac’s cabin in your mind?” Issie grinned.
“No.” Lily considered her petite friend and decided to shock her. “I’m imagining myself as mistress of this cabin.”
Issie’s eyes grew wide, and Amanda squawked. “Why, Lilyanna Laughlin, you’re as forward as Cynthia Clydesdale.”
“Except, unlike Cynthia, Captain Albright and I have an understanding.”
“Indeed.” Issie cradled the baby and tickled her tummy. Amanda giggled.
“And he kissed me.”
Issie’s mouth fell open. Her eyes grew as wide as one of Papa’s silver coins. Lily held her head high. There. She’d gotten the best of her friend at last.
This time.
James shadowed the open entrance before stepping inside the cabin. He removed his hat then used his sleeve to wipe the perspiration off his brow. “I thought I saw you two walk in here.” He turned to Lily. “So what do you think?”
“It’s very cozy.” She moved to the corner of the cabin near the hearth. “I think Papa’s writing desk would look just fine here. It will be my donation.”
“Lily, you’d give away your father’s desk?” Issie’s russet brows knit together. “Are you sure that’s wise?”
She nodded. “Papa would want Mac to have it.” Dare she shock her friends with another admission? “And it’s not like I’ll never see it again. I hope to marry Mac one day.”
James broke out in a hearty laugh that hurt Lily’s feelings.
“How dare you laugh at me like that, James Hawkins.”
“I’m not laughing at you, Lil. I’m laughing at Mac.” Another chuckle. “He sure did try to fight his feelings for you. He gave up the day after that snake bit you. He said God was the only hope, and the two of us knelt down in the barn and prayed together.”
“You never said a word.” Issie approached James, who gave a shrug.
“It was a personal matter, dearest.”
“Oh, I suppose it was.” Issie huffed anyhow, and Lily smiled.
“Besides, Mac’s feelings for Lily wasn’t my news to tell.” James flicked a glance at Lily. “But now that the secret is out, I can say it.”
“Lily says she and the captain have an understanding.” Issie inclined her head toward Lily.
James shrugged. “Courtship, eh?” He dipped his chin in approval.
“Mac says I’ll change my mind when I find out more about him, but he’s wrong.”
“There’s always a chance, I suppose.” James raked his hand through his sandy-brown hair.
“No, I will always love him.” Lily ran her fingertips along the tabletop. “Even if it means living in this cabin for the rest of my days. As long as I’m with Mac, it will feel like home.”
“And he kissed her, James.” Issie appeared almost indignant over the matter.
“Issie!” Lily felt a blush work its way up her neck and into her hairline.
“I’d say a kiss makes the courtship official,” James remarked, seemingly unaffected. “I know that’s what Mac wanted.”
“He told you?” Now it was Lily’s turn to be surprised.
“Not in so many words. We men have our own way of expressing ourselves. But I can say this. Mac is captivated by you, Lily, so don’t ever assume he doesn’t care about you. He does.”
“The feeling is mutual.” A thrill passed through Lily.
“But, for now, we’ll get you back home and into bed.” James pressed his hat onto his head. His brown hair peeped out from beneath it. “You look feverish again.”
“I’m fine.”
James lifted Amanda from Issie’s arms. “Help Lil to the wagon, will you, Issie?”
“Of course. But I think she’s more lovesick than sick.”
Lily smiled and stared down at the cabin’s plank wood floor. She was impressed by Mac’s hard work and found the cabin a little retreat from the busy manor, although with the boys gone, there wasn’t much commotion. Lily sent up a quick prayer for her brothers’ safety. Were they behaving themselves?
At the wagon, James helped Issie up, then passed her the baby. He next assisted Lily up to the bench before climbing into the driver’s seat and taking up the reins.
“Everyone ready?”
“We’re set.” Issie exchanged glances with Lily. “Are you all right?”
“I think so, but I’m suddenly exhausted.”
“We’ll get you home right quick,” James said, snapping the reins above his horses’ behinds.
The wagon jerked forward, and soon the sound of the horses’ hooves and jangling harnesses filled the air. Lily took a last glance at Mac’s barn, yard, and cabin. Pride swelled in her chest and somehow reassured her of any doubts that Mac would settle here in the valley. Soon he’d be back from Alexandria—and she couldn’t wait to see him again.
Mac surveyed his brother’s tobacco plantation as he drove the carriage up the drive. Impressive. No other word came close to describing it. The mansion was of red brick and boasted twin two-story white pillars and a wraparound veranda. However, the black men and women slaving in the surrounding fields despite the humid air and hot sun looked more like raisins than human beings. The sight prompted Mac to do something about it—but what?
He pulled on the reins and the horses halted at the top of a wide, circular drive. His parents alighted from the buggy, Father helping Mother down. Mac jumped from his perch and tied the reins to the carved iron hitching post.
“I know what this dinner is all about,” Father grumbled. “Your brother has a notion that Mother and I will move into this ostentatious manor with him and Gwyneth.”
“I must admit”—Mac said, climbing the stairs to the veranda—“the idea did cross my mind.” He’d had an entire week to contemplate Albright Shipping’s fate. He’d been at the dock twice to assist Taylor with securing a crew, and he’d rolled up his sleeves with the best of them to clean up the spill in Ariel’s hold.
“I must be near my business,” Father grumbled. “Things can change like that”—he snapped his fingers—“and I must be able to reach the wharves within minutes.”
“Ah, yes, bu
t that’s Peter Canfield’s job.” As operations manager, Mr. Canfield was awarded an apartment in town free of rent and brought in a nice salary—yet another expense, but Mac supposed a necessary one. “Allow him to perform his duties.”
“But I must supervise.”
Mother churned out an exasperated sigh and gave the brass front doorknocker a few hard raps. “Can we please enjoy this dinner without the shadow of Albright Shipping looming over us for once?”
Mac exchanged glances with his father. At times Mother forgot that Albright Shipping was the family’s bread and butter, so to speak.
The door opened wide, and a plump, dark-skinned woman wearing a black dress and white apron appeared in the entryway.
“We’re the Albrights and are expected for dinner.” Father pulled back his shoulders and tugged on his black frockcoat.
“Yes, sir.” The woman opened the door wider and collected Mother’s shawl and the men’s hats, hanging them reverently on the hall tree. “I’ll let the missus know yous arrived.”
She hurried off.
Father leaned close to Mother. “Now, see there, Olivia? That Negress is an apt maid. Surely one of Prescott’s slaves will make us a fine cook.”
The muscles between Mac’s shoulder blades wound tight. “Slaves are not the answer,” he said to his parents. “We’ll find you a cook. Someone, perhaps, willing to work for room and board.”
“Well, I suppose …?” Mother jerked her chin.
Gwyneth sashayed into the foyer wearing an ivory gown and sapphire shawl. Her complexion was reminiscent of freshly-fallen snow, and her eyes were so bright a blue they were nearly translucent.
She dipped a curtsy. “Welcome.” She held her hand out to Mac and he placed a perfunctory kiss upon it. “How good to see you again, brother dear.”
Mac smiled. “My pleasure entirely.”
Gwyneth greeted his parents and then turned to the woman directly behind her. Mac hadn’t noticed her until now.
“Allow me to present my sister, Miss Samantha Eden. She’s visiting us for the week.”
My Heart Belongs in the Shenandoah Valley Page 20
