The Engagement Charade

by Karen Kirst

  So much about his life had changed in recent weeks—for the better—and it was all thanks to Ellie. All he had to do was convince her to agree to a marriage of practicality.

  * * *

  This Thanksgiving, Ellie had a lot to be thankful for...new friends, a satisfying job and a safe place to stay. She was determined to focus on God’s blessings. She refused to dwell on Alexander’s decision to visit Texas and her ridiculous fear he might not come back. Living in the same town once their charade was over wasn’t going to be easy, but never seeing him again? That was the stuff of nightmares.

  “You’re awfully quiet this morning.”

  Breathing in the crisp air, she switched the basket handle to her other hand and studied the passing scenery. She and June were on their way to the Plum, where they would spend the day with Alexander and Margaret, Ben MacGregor, and a few of June’s friends who didn’t have family nearby. Alexander had insisted he’d prepare the turkey but that Ellie and June were welcome to bring vegetables and fresh rolls. Margaret was taking care of the desserts.

  “It’s going to be overcast the whole day, isn’t it?” Ellie remarked, not eager to talk about Alexander.

  June glanced about at the trees arrayed in their fiery glory. “I don’t mind days like this. The gray skies make the beautiful colors stand out.” She sent Ellie a sideways glance. “Our lives are like that sometimes. In the midst of the gloomy days, we can more clearly count our blessings.”

  “You’re a wise lady, June Trentham.”

  “I’ve lived a long time.” She winked. “I would hope I’ve learned a thing or two.”

  Passing by the church, they neared Main Street, empty save for a stray dog trotting along the boardwalk. The shops were closed in honor of the holiday. Ellie vaguely recalled sitting around the Thanksgiving table with her parents and various aunts and uncles. Her mother and father had enjoyed an easy, loving relationship, at least that’s what her grandmother had often told her after their deaths. What Ellie remembered most was the way her father had made her mother laugh, teasing her with a certain twinkle in his eye.

  Holidays with her grandparents had been different. Because they lived in a different state far from other family members, it had been just the three of them. Ellie hadn’t ever been able to shake the sense of loneliness. She’d craved the big celebrations she’d enjoyed in her parents’ home. For that reason, she was looking forward to today’s meal in spite of how she’d left things with Alexander.

  She touched June’s elbow. “Thank you, June.”

  Her brows hitched. “For what?”

  “For giving me a home.”

  “Oh, my dear girl, you’ve given me far more than I have you.” Her eyes shone with affection. “I’ve loved having you around. It’s nice to have someone to share meals with and keep me company in the evenings.”

  Ellie returned her smile, glad she hadn’t been a burden to the other woman. “Seems we’ve helped each other, then.”

  They came alongside the café windows. Twin fires in the fireplaces flanking the room beckoned them inside, where the tables had been pushed together in the middle and set with pretty china plates Ellie had seen on the lower storeroom shelves. Glasses sparkled, silverware gleamed and tall candles flickered in silver holders. Pinecones and gourds added texture and color to the tableau. It was welcoming and beautiful.

  The door was unlocked, so they entered, calling out their arrival as they discarded shawls, gloves and hats onto one of the unused tables in the corner.

  Alexander was the first to greet them. He looked the model genteel businessman in his fitted black frock coat over a tan vest and chestnut trousers with thin blue stripes. A tie pin sparkled in the folds of his silk puff tie. He must’ve shaved minutes ago, because the woodsy scent of his shaving soap lingered about his person. Brushed off his forehead, his rich raven locks gleamed.

  Ellie hung back as he hurried to assist June with her shawl. Over June’s shoulder, Alexander’s brilliant blue gaze found Ellie’s. Instead of the pressing urgency she’d expected—and dreaded—there was soft admiration that put her instantly at ease. That he’d asked her to accompany him on his trip both stunned and pleased her, but she couldn’t agree. And ruining this special day with an argument was untenable.

  “Welcome, ladies. The food is ready save for one of Margaret’s desserts.” He tipped his head toward the hallway and took both of their baskets in hand. “It’s laid out in the kitchen. We thought we’d go through and fill our plates and enjoy the meal out here.”

  “It’s a lovely scene.” June smiled, pleased. “You outdid yourself.”

  “That was my sister’s idea.” His gaze encompassing the room, he smiled. “I’m glad I heeded her advice. Lends it a more homelike feel.”

  His features were relaxed. Contentment radiated from him. How much he’d changed, Ellie marveled, since those early days. Instead of dodging the company of others, he embraced it. Alexander was no longer the untouchable café owner. He had a place in his community. Friends. Acquaintances. Loyal customers.

  But was it enough to hold him here now that he was ready to be free of his past?

  Setting such thoughts aside, she followed him into the bright kitchen, tantalizing aromas of rosemary-rubbed meat; carrots glazed with cinnamon and butter; and buttery, yeasty bread making her stomach growl. The lavish spread before her was enough for a week’s worth of meals, it seemed, and that was before her and June’s dishes were added.

  “I thought you were only doing the meat,” she said to Alexander.

  He brought his face close, their shoulders brushing. “My sister never does anything in small measures.”

  She tried not to stare at his wonderfully dear face. “I guess not.”

  “Happy Thanksgiving, Ellie!” Margaret, striking in a jewel-green dress, waved from the far stove. “You too, Miss June. I’ll be finished in five minutes.”

  “Good to hear, because I’m about to snag one of these rolls.” His customary grin in place, Ben came over and hugged them each in turn. “How are you faring, Ellie?” he said once June and Alexander became involved in a conversation. “You haven’t had any more visitors out at the Trentham place?”

  “None that were unwelcome. Thanks for paying them another visit. I think perhaps they’ve decided to leave me be.”

  She hadn’t received any more letters from Kentucky and no more frights in the barn.

  “Good.” His expression turning serious, he said, “I didn’t mince words with them. I laid out exactly what would happen if they continued their shenanigans.”

  “Ralph hasn’t ever been a problem, maybe because he married into the family like I did. Howard is obviously loyal to his wife. He takes her side on matters but doesn’t instigate things.”

  “It’s the women who’ve given you the most trouble.”

  “Yes.”

  “I don’t foresee any more problems. That being said, continue as you’ve been doing. Pays to be cautious.”

  “Of course.”

  June’s friends arrived in a cloud of heady perfume and lilting conversation. Margaret finished her preparations and, removing her apron, called on Alexander to say grace. It was the first time Ellie had heard him pray, and the act moved her to tears. Surreptitiously wiping them away before he’d concluded, she offered her own silent prayer of gratitude. God had taken a closed-off, hurting heart and healed it, as was His specialty.

  Conversation bounced off the walls as they retrieved their china dishes from the dining room and returned to fill them with mouthwatering fare. Ellie was maneuvered—by Margaret, of course—to a seat across from her and beside Alexander. Ben found a place amid June and her friends, and he kept them entertained for the duration of the entire meal. The deputy projected a lighthearted demeanor, but at odd times Ellie thought she caught hints of sadness beneath th
e facade. What Ben might have to be sad about was a mystery. Indeed, she acknowledged she knew very little about his past. Her ruminations were diverted when, while in the kitchen observing the many sweet options, Alexander asked to speak to her alone.

  “It must be important if it can’t wait until after dessert,” she quipped, her heart fluttering with anxiety.

  Was he going to tell her goodbye forever? Had he already decided to remain in his home state, surrounded by family and old friends?

  “It is.”

  His voice was huskier than usual, his easygoing manner replaced with an apprehension that was troubling.

  “Let’s talk in my office.”

  Once inside, he closed the door and took up position behind his desk.

  Nervousness assailing her, Ellie wandered over to the windows. “I haven’t spent much time in here lately.”

  “You’ll notice the open curtains.”

  “That post office wall is a much better view than printed fabric,” she tried to tease. She turned to face him. “Admit it, you resented my intrusion into your prized privacy.”

  He winced. “I used to be a very foolish man.”

  “You were never that,” she defended. “Perhaps it’s better to say you were guarded.”

  His mouth curved into a half smile. “You’re a generous woman, Ellie Jameson.”

  “Enough of the banter.” She advanced into the middle of the room, arms hanging at her sides. “What do you need to tell me, Alex?”

  His chest expanded with a deep breath. Opening the topmost drawer, he removed a tiny object and placed it on the desk.

  “Your wedding band.”

  “Yes.” He plunged his hands in his pants pockets, only to pull them out again. “I’m ready to wear one of these again.”

  Ellie’s heartbeat roaring in her ears, she reached for the cushioned chair nearest her. “What are you trying to say? I—I thought you were going to talk about your trip.”

  More solemn than she’d ever seen him, Alexander rounded the desk and joined her, taking her hands in his. He swallowed hard.

  “Ellie, I’d like for this engagement to be real. I want to be your husband and your baby’s father. What do you say?”

  Chapter Twenty-Four

  He was fairly sure she was going to swoon.

  “Here, why don’t you have a seat,” he said in a rush, guiding her onto the chair and kneeling before her. “I’ve surprised you, I know—”

  “Surprised?” Gazing down at him with wide eyes, she shook her head. “Alexander, you’ve yanked the rug out from beneath me. A marriage proposal was the last thing I expected to hear.”

  Her candor untangled some of the tension he’d been carrying around since last night.

  “Why, Alex?” A vulnerable light entered her eyes. “I don’t understand.”

  Needing to steady them both, he once again took hold of her hands. “Getting married makes sense. Everyone already expects a wedding. Why not give them one? You need a husband. I’m ready to have a family again. It’s a practical answer to both our problems.”

  Her throat working, Ellie stared at him with something akin to horror.

  “Practical.” She said the word with distaste. “I had that the first time around. I will not repeat my mistakes.”

  Pulling free, she brushed him aside and rose calmly to her feet. Alexander pushed upright, dismayed by her outright refusal to even consider his offer. This wasn’t the reaction he’d hoped for.

  “Not all practical marriages turn out like yours. I’ve personally known couples who’ve made successful matches based on mutual respect and commitment.” He studied her profile but was unable to gauge the effect of his words. “You’ve become a dear friend, Ellie. I believe we can have a good life together.”

  Angling her face away, she swiped at her cheek before turning back. Her pretty doe eyes communicated grief that shook him. Why would his proposal sadden her?

  “You were blessed to marry a woman you loved and who loved you in return. When—if—I enter into that sacred institution again, my husband and I will adore each other. I will accept nothing less.”

  Alexander didn’t try to prevent her from leaving. He stared at the spot where she’d been, one truth eating at him. Ellie wanted someone she could adore, and that someone wasn’t him.

  Long minutes later, Margaret came looking for him. “Alex, what are you doing in here by yourself? Did you do something to upset Ellie?”

  His chest tight with emotion he didn’t recognize, he turned toward the door. “As a matter of fact, I did.”

  Her brow furrowed. “What happened?”

  “I proposed.”

  Margaret’s hold on the door frame slipped, and she advanced into the room. Her blue gaze was intense. “You asked her to marry you for real?”

  “She was not thrilled with my idea.”

  “I’d say not. She left without tasting a single dessert.”

  “She actually went home?” Guilt seized him. “But the day isn’t even half over. She shouldn’t be alone on Thanksgiving.” He started for the door. His sister blocked his way. “Move, Margaret. I have to catch up to her. At least see her safely to June’s.” He was hoping to convince her to return.

  The Jamesons may have promised Ben they’d leave Ellie alone, but he had his doubts.

  “Ben went with her.”

  “I see.” Kneading his stiff neck muscles, he stalked the perimeter of the room. “I can’t comprehend why she’s upset. I thought my offer would make her happy. I’d take care of her, you know. I’d raise her child as if it was my own.”

  He couldn’t have entertained such a notion even a few short weeks ago. His precious son would always own a piece of his heart, the memories of Levi a gift he’d carry with him the rest of his days. God was slowly healing the holes inside, knitting them with forgiveness and hope. He wanted to be a father again. Truth be told, he already felt protective toward Ellie’s child. That she’d rejected him as a husband hurt. That she didn’t see him as good enough to help raise her son or daughter wounded him.

  “Why don’t you tell me exactly what you said?”

  He complied. Margaret wasn’t impressed. “That’s terribly unromantic, Alex.”

  “Our relationship isn’t based on romance.” Ignoring the memories of their kiss springing to mind, he said inanely, “I’m her boss.”

  “Who’s been parading as her fiancé,” Margaret pointed out. “And acting very protective of her.”

  “That’s no act,” he snapped. “Ellie’s well-being, and that of her baby, is my utmost priority.”

  A stirring at the door had them both turning around. June stood in the hallway, obviously worried. “I’m sorry to interrupt. I thought you might know what’s bothering Ellie.”

  His sister spoke first. “Why don’t I go and talk to her? I’m confident I can convince her to return. Not many people can resist my pumpkin empanadas.”

  June agreed to Margaret’s suggestion, mainly because she had friends in attendance and didn’t want to abandon them. Alexander recalled his role as host and, though difficult, managed to engage in a discussion of that year’s planned Christmas festivities. But his mind was with Ellie.

  I didn’t intend to cause her grief, Lord. I ruined her first happy holiday in years. Please let Margaret get through to her. Let the day be salvaged.

  And what of their friendship? Could it be saved?

  Why was friendship with Ellie suddenly not enough?

  * * *

  “You sure you’ll be all right?” June hesitated on the threshold the next morning, wrapped in her thick wool shawl and her basket of sewing supplies tucked under her arm. “I can make my excuses.”

  “You can’t miss the meeting. Christmas will be here before we know it,
and the children who’ll receive the baskets are counting on those blankets.”

  June’s frown deepened.

  “I’m fine,” Ellie tried to reassure her. She wasn’t fine, of course, but she intended to wallow in her misery without a witness.

  “Are you going to say goodbye to Margaret this afternoon?”

  “We said our goodbyes yesterday.”

  Margaret had arrived shortly after Ben’s departure. Their conversation had been brief and unproductive. The other woman had expressed her dismay over the whole situation and was convinced her brother cared more for Ellie than he was willing to admit—even to himself. Ellie disagreed. After reminding Margaret of her promise to keep Ellie’s feelings a secret, she’d bid her a tearful farewell, aware that she’d likely never see her friend again.

  What had started out as a day with such promise had turned into a lonely stretch of time.

  June’s gaze lit on the coffee table. “Oh, I forgot to tell you. There was a letter addressed to you left on the front porch two nights ago.”

  Ellie examined the writing. “It’s from Kentucky.”

  “I hope it’s not more upsetting news.”

  June knew about the lies the Jamesons were spreading in their former town. Ripping open the letter, she skimmed the contents.

  “It’s another letter from my reverend’s wife there. Janice received my last reply explaining what’s been going on. She’s offering me a place to stay free of charge for the first six months.”

  “What will you do?”

  “I don’t know.”

  Kentucky held a mixture of happy memories overshadowed by unhappy ones. The mere thought of leaving Gatlinburg, of leaving Alexander, caused her heart to spasm with pain and denial.

  Carefully refolding it, she mulled over the offer.

  “You won’t do anything rash, will you?” June said.

  “I need to think.”

  “You need to pray.”

  Once June had gone, Ellie dressed and arranged her hair, glad she wasn’t required to put in an appearance at the Plum. Alexander had decided to close for the second day in a row in order to send his sister off in proper fashion. She wondered if he wished he’d bought a ticket for himself. Perhaps he had. Perhaps he’d leave this weekend or early next week. He might not inform her of his plans directly. Ellie had bolted from his office, too crushed by disappointment to gauge his reaction.