Whiter Than Snow (Brides of Weatherton)

by Leah Atwood

  His pace quickened as he approached the house. The time in prayer gave him a renewed desire to see his marriage succeed. Tallie and he were off to a good start, but it could always be better.

  He found Tallie sitting on the settee, hunched over with her head buried in her hand.

  She must have heard him because she looked up when he entered the room. “I can’t go to church today.”

  “Are you feeling ill? Should I go fetch Doc?” His eyes moved up and down, searching her for any sign of infirmity.

  “No, I’m not sick.” She shook her head, emphasizing her answer, then sighed deeply. “I don’t want to go.”

  Confused, Jeremiah slanted his head and his brows drew together. “But you were looking forward to attending and meeting some of the ladies.”

  “Don’t you understand?” Clinching her hands, she shot him a pleading expression.

  A myriad of thoughts crossed his mind, but he didn’t know much about women. Especially not ones who were expecting a child. Did he nod and pretend, or tell the truth? Honesty had to be the best policy. “No, I don’t.”

  She crossed her arms and tucked her hands under them. A few quiet sniffles came out. “I won’t fit in with those ladies. I’m not like them.”

  “How so?”

  Weariness drowned out the vividness of her blue eyes when she gave a pointed look at her swollen stomach. “This.”

  He began to understand the depth of Tallie’s insecurities. “No one needs to know about that. For all they know, and will probably assume, you are a widow.”

  “And already remarried?”

  “It’s common out here, Tallie. People marry out of necessity all the time without the proper mourning periods.” Her doubts worried him, but he tried to be patient and reminded himself of the enormous strain she must be under. “I promise, no one will think poorly of you or assume anything about your baby.”

  “But what if they do or find out the truth?” She caught her bottom lip between her teeth.

  “How would they?” He reached out to touch her shoulder, but she jerked away.

  “I don’t know, but the truth always comes out.”

  “As far as I am concerned, what happened in your past stays there.” Cupping her chin with a feather light touch, he guided her to look at him. “It’s nobody’s business but ours. What matters is that you are my wife and this baby will be ours to raise together.”

  Her face softened, but the worry didn’t disappear altogether. “What if they ask?”

  Holding back his exasperation, he fought the urge to rub his temples. He didn’t care to see Tallie so vulnerable and didn’t know what else to do except support her. “Folks around here tend not to ask many questions. They’ll offer a listening ear if you’d like one, but otherwise will respect your privacy.”

  “You must think I’m silly.” She fiddled with the apron strings she’d looped around her back and tied in front.

  “Not at all, but I do wish you’d reconsider church.” His hand slid from her chin to cheek. “I’ll be by your side the entire time.”

  “I’m scared. Nothing ever turns out good in my life. I’m afraid it will all crash down and I’ll be left with nothing.”

  The terrified expression that accompanied her blunt confession broke him.

  He brought her into the circle of protection within his arms. “You’re not alone anymore, Tallie. Don’t be afraid to have faith in our future.”

  “I’m trying to believe, I am.”

  “I know, Tallie.” He rubbed her back in a circular motion. “Don’t give up. It’s not going to be easy, it wouldn’t be under the best conditions, but it will be worth the effort.”

  She peered at him, her eyelashes moist. “Let’s go to church.”

  Chapter 11

  “What’s taking so long?” Tallie flashed her husband a grin to let him know she was teasing.

  “For someone who wanted to skip services last Sunday, you’re awfully eager to get there this week.” Jeremiah winked and pulled on his second boot.

  “Everyone was so friendly and accepting. They treated me like an old friend.”

  “Didn’t I tell you there was nothing to worry about?” Crinkles formed at the corner of Jeremiah’s eyes when he smiled.

  “Lettie was very kind to pass down her dress.” She smoothed a hand over the new garment. Well, new to her at least. It was a gift from Lettie McCade, who had stopped by last Monday for a visit. The dress was beautiful, and Tallie didn’t even mind that the bright colors made her appear even larger.

  Jeremiah dusted a kiss on her cheek. “You’ll be the most beautiful woman at church.”

  A blush warmed her cheeks. “The biggest one, too.”

  “Don’t say things like that, Tallie.” A frown turned down the corners of his mouth. “I’d lo…like you no matter what size, even if you weren’t expecting a baby.”

  Had she heard him correctly? Had he been about to say, love? She prayed it was so because she loved him—he made it easy to do so. Not many men would have taken her in like he had and given her a chance despite what she’d done.

  Jeremiah made her believe his words were true when he said the past stayed in the past. She trusted that he didn’t hold her previous sin against her. With him, she felt like a whole person again, not someone who’d given away a piece of herself that she could never reclaim. And most importantly, she knew without a single doubt that he would love this baby.

  “Do you have everything?” Her husband’s question cut into her ruminations.

  “All I have are the tea cakes, and they’re sitting on the table, ready to go.”

  “I’ll take it out now.” He walked toward the door. “I’ll get the wagon ready and come back to get you in a few minutes.”

  “I’ll go with you now.” Following him, she intended to grab her cloak from the peg near the door.

  “Stay inside.” He cast her a caring look. “It’s bitterly cold and the ride will be long enough. Might as well keep warm while you can.”

  When they reached town an hour later, Tallie was frozen clear through her body, even with the layers she wore. Jeremiah assisted her down, and they walked into the church. Between the woodstove and number of people crowded inside, the church was cozily warm.

  There was a festive mood in the air as people gathered to worship on the last Sunday before Christmas. A candle was placed in each window, surrounded by a sprig of greenery. Crocheted snowflakes hung from the ceiling. In the front corner of the church was a Christmas tree decorated with garlands made from popcorn and cranberries. Tiny red, ribbon bows were affixed to the branch’s ends. On an altar—front and center—was a nativity display with real hay scattered around the crèche.

  Jeremiah led her to an empty pew on the left side of the church. They walked in and sat down as Pastor Gibbons stepped up to the pulpit.

  “Thank you for joining us this Sunday. Let’s begin with a prayer, followed by a congregation singing of The First Noelle.” Pastor Gibbons bowed his head and began a recitation.

  Sharp pains wrenched Tallie’s stomach. “Ouch,” she muttered under her breath.

  Lifting his head from prayer, Jeremiah looked at her. “Are you okay?”

  “Yes.” She swallowed, relieved when the pain passed.

  Pastor Gibbons finished his prayer and lifted his hands, a motion which told the church members to stand.

  Tallie sang, letting the words reach her heart.

  Away in a manger,

  No crib for His bed

  The little Lord Jesus

  Laid down His sweet head

  The stars in the bright sky

  Looked down where He lay

  The little Lord Jesus

  Asleep on the hay

  The cattle are lowing

  The poor Baby wakes

  But little Lord Jesus

  No crying He makes

  I love Thee, Lord Jesus

  Look down from the sky

  And stay by my side,
/>   'Til morning is nigh.

  Be near me, Lord Jesus,

  I ask Thee to stay

  Close by me forever

  And love me I pray

  Bless all the dear children

  In Thy tender care

  And take us to heaven

  To live with Thee there

  When she sang the final stanza a lump formed in her throat, and she couldn’t sing the last line. Gratitude welled in her. Her baby would be looked after, and God had provided as he always had. He was good and faithful. The simple song reminded her of how blessed she was and what a miracle Christmas truly was. With a renewed spirit to celebrate the holiday’s true meaning, she joyously sang the next song, Angels We Have Heard On High.

  Until her stomach contracted again. The pains were so bad this time she had to sit down. Jeremiah looked down, concern etched on his face. Not wanting to draw attention to herself, she stood as soon as the pain subsided. She gave Jeremiah a weak smile and continued singing until, at last, the pastor instructed the congregation to sit.

  The service ended without any more contractions, much to her relief. Even though the baby could arrive any day, Tallie was really looking forward to the social at the Simpsons’ house after church. Everyone from town was invited, and Tallie had prepared tea cakes to share. They were a simple fare, but quick and easy to make. After the social, in the early evening, the church members would return to the house of worship for the children’s program.

  Jeremiah wrapped an arm around her waist and escorted her to the wagon, where the tea cakes still were. He lifted it from its spot and carried it with one hand while his other remained on Tallie. In her state, she wasn’t able to walk quickly, but the biting air was motivation enough to move at a brisker pace.

  They were one of the first to reach the Simpsons’ house. Rosa greeted them and offered her a hot cup of tea.

  Tallie gladly accepted. “Thank you.”

  “Come have a seat before they’re all taken.” Rosa Simpson gave her an understanding smile. “I remember those days, and I’m sure you don’t want to stand all afternoon.” Her attention turned to Jeremiah. “I’m borrowing your wife for a short time.”

  Carrying her cup of tea, Tallie followed Rosa to the parlor where it looked like extra furniture had been brought in. Even so, there weren’t enough spots for every person in town, should they all decide to sit at the same time.

  “Have you enjoyed Weatherton so far?” Rosa asked, still standing after Tallie had sat.

  “Yes. The entire town is welcoming and I feel right at home.”

  “That’s how we like for it to be.” A bell chimed. “That’s my sign that more people have arrived. I must go greet them, but make yourself at home. Enjoy the party.”

  Rosa flitted out of the room. Five minutes later, Jeremiah walked through the entry, carrying a plate of food. “I thought you might be hungry.”

  “Thank you.” She took the offered plate and saw a healthy portion of plum pudding.

  “Dessert first.” He winked.

  They laughed at the shared joke.

  “What happened in church?”

  “The baby was moving a lot.” Swallowing the bite she’d just eaten, she decided to tell him the full truth. “Actually, I think it was an early sign of the baby’s arrival.”

  Jeremiah’s eyes spread wide. “How early?”

  “I don’t know. They will come much more frequently before the baby actually gets here.” She worded her response in such a way that Jeremiah wouldn’t insist they leave immediately.

  He looked nervous and drew in a long breath. “Are you sure?”

  “According to everything I know.” Which admittedly wasn’t much. “Besides, everyone says the first baby takes forever to arrive.”

  As though on cue, her stomach cramped. She clenched her jaw, bearing down and hunching over to get through the contraction. Jeremiah rubbed her back, and despite her extreme discomfort, she appreciated his effort to ease her pain.

  “I should find Doc.” He began to walk away.

  Tallie reached out and grabbed his wrist. “I don’t think there’s anything to worry about. Let’s stay and enjoy the evening. You haven’t seen many of these people in years.”

  His brows knitted. Skepticism shaded his eyes. “There’s plenty of time in the upcoming weeks to visit with them. You and the baby take priority.”

  “I promise I’ll let you know if it gets worse.” She held her breath, waiting for his answer.

  Pulling in a long breath, Jeremiah shifted his gaze from her face to stomach. “Promise?”

  She nodded.

  Other people filtered into the room, and soon, all the seats were full. After an hour of socializing, Glenn and Rosa Simpson gathered everyone in the parlor. The room became cramped and stuffy from the number of people in there.

  Glenn draped an arm over his wife’s shoulder. “Thank you, everyone, for coming today and celebrating the holiday season with us.”

  Rose dabbed at an eye. “We treasure your friendships, more than we could ever tell you.”

  “However, we didn’t invite everyone here today just to have a Christmas party.” Glenn lowered his arm and took his wife’s hand. “It’s with mixed emotions that we announce we are selling the mercantile and moving to Kansas.”

  Gasps of surprise and dismay circled the room.

  Tallie didn’t know what to feel. She barely knew the couple, but Rosa and Glenn both had made a strong impression on her.

  “How come?” Rand McCade asked.

  “Family,” Rosa answered with one word.

  “When?” A man with sandy blonde hair stepped forward with his wife who was holding an infant. Sam Holden, if Tallie’s memory was correct.

  “We hadn’t planned on leaving until March, as we just sent out a notice last week that the mercantile is for sale.” Glenn sighed. “We expected the process to take months, especially with winter moving in, but as of yesterday, someone has come to make the purchase.”

  Another round of cries and protests circled the room. The Simpsons clearly were a well-liked and respected family.

  “Who’s buying the place?” Tallie didn’t recognize the man who asked the question.

  “A family from Cincinnati.” Glenn looked toward the doorframe.

  A sick feeling took root in Tallie’s stomach. It couldn’t be. It was simply a coincidence. Cincinnati had lots of people.

  People moving west to start a new mercantile?

  Her stomach pulled and convulsed. Partly from a contraction, partly from anxiety.

  “They are here this afternoon for you to meet.” Glenn waved in the family. “Meet the Cohens.”

  When the family walked into the room, Tallie’s hopes faded like the morning mist.

  “Friends and family, meet Ned and Bertha Cohen, and their two sons, Georgie and Alistair.”

  “It’s a pleasure to be here,” Mr. Cohen greeted the crowd. “I look forward to carrying on the great service and products the Simpsons have always provided.”

  Tallie sunk in her seat, positive her face was whiter than the lace trim on her dress. She’d felt all the blood drain at the sight of her former employer. Would they say anything and ruin her reputation in town? Maybe she should tell Jeremiah that she changed her mind that she wanted to leave the party.

  But to do that, she’d have to walk directly past the Cohens. There was no exit path to avoid them.

  She nudged Jeremiah, mouthing, “That’s them.”

  His eyes crinkled and head angled. His palms turned up, silently asking who. As though it dawned on him, his mouth gaped opened and he leaned his head close to her so he could whisper and not be overheard. “What do you want to do?”

  “Leave,” she answered without hesitation.

  Many of the gathered people moved to greet the Cohens or went to other parts of the house. A path to the door cleared.

  “Go on to the front door.” Jeremiah held out a hand to help her stand. “I’ll make our e
xcuses. With your condition as it is, no one will question our early departure.”

  “I’m sorry.” Distraught, she thought about the future. She couldn’t hide from the Cohens forever, and now Jeremiah would suffer for her actions once the town discovered her past.

  Was there a small chance Mrs. Cohen wouldn’t tell anyone? No, the woman was a horrible gossip. Tallie knew with certainty that the entire town would know her secret within a week of Mrs. Cohen discovering she lived there now.

  “Shh.” Jeremiah crooned comforting words into her ear. “Remember, no matter what happens, I’m here for you.”

  She walked through the people milling about. A relieved sigh was ready to come out as she left the room, but then small hands wrapped themselves around her.

  “Where’d you go, Miss Duncan.” Little Georgie clung to the skirt of her dress, peering up at her with sweet, innocent eyes.

  Tears of mixed emotions welled in her eyes. Even after all those months, the young boy remembered her. At the same time, his greeting was sure to draw attention.

  Jeremiah stood several feet away, and Tallie tried to grab his attention, but he was in conversation with none other than Mr. Cohen. Taking a deep breath, Tallie told herself he probably was doing that to keep the couple occupied so she could escape. But how could she do that with Georgie attached to her? And no matter how badly she wanted to leave, she couldn’t ignore Georgie.

  “Sometimes people have to leave,” she told him and patted his back. “But I missed you a great deal.”

  “I missed you too. Will you come back?” His bottom lip protruded.

  “That’s not possible.”

  “Why not? I’ll ask Ma.”

  Before she could comprehend what Georgie was about to do, he broke into a loud, excited scream. “Ma, Miss Duncan is here. Can she be our nanny again?”

  The entire room went silent. Every person started at her and Georgie.

  Including Mrs. Cohen, whose face turned crimson. She shook an angry finger. “You.”

  Rosa stepped forward. “Is there a problem, Bertha?”

  As if realizing the display she caused, Mrs. Cohen’s face changed into a false concern. “I’m sorry to be the bearer of such news, but I’m afraid you’ve been deceived by a guest.”