Road to Harmony

by Sherry Kyle

  “Elena.” Samuel sat in a chair on the covered porch, a quilt wrapped around his legs. “Where’re Yvette and Willie?”

  “In Cayucos.” Elena climbed down from the wagon and joined her brother. “Jonas will bring them back.” She sat beside him and held his hand. “Samuel, I need to tell you something—something you might not like.”

  Samuel removed his hand from her grasp, concern etching his forehead. “What is it?”

  “I’m not going to marry Lars.”

  “Why? You have your dress and everything.” The corners of Samuel’s mouth turned down.

  “Please understand.” Her voice softened. “I don’t love him. I only wanted to marry him so that you’d be happy.”

  “Me? You wanted to marry him for me?” Samuel’s lip curled. “What would you do that for—I can take care of myself.”

  “But Lars has money and treats you well. He’d always provide for you.” Elena ran a hand over her arm to ward off the early evening chill. “Plus, Mama and Papa thought it was a good match for me.”

  “Jonas came back to town. That’s what happened.” Samuel grabbed hold of the blanket that covered his legs and placed half of it on Elena’s lap. “You always were sweet on him.”

  Elena’s cheeks warmed at her brother’s perceptiveness, but quickly cooled at the memory of Jonas with Yvette in his arms. “He plans on marrying Yvette, remember?”

  Samuel shook his head. “I don’t think so. Once he finds out you’re staying in Harmony, he’ll put a stop to that.”

  “But Jonas would make a great father for Willie.”

  “That’s no reason to marry.” Samuel yawned and rested his head on Elena’s shoulder. “I don’t need Lars to take care of me, either.”

  Elena stroked her brother’s face. “You need someone to watch over you.” She spoke in soft tones.

  “I love you, Elena.”

  “I love you too, Samuel.”

  They sat in silence for a long while.

  The weight of Samuel’s body doubled as he leaned against her. He had fallen asleep. She relished this moment on the porch with her brother.

  A rabbit darted across the grass. Cows mooed in the distance. Yes, she was definitely home. And in the future when her parents were no longer around, she’d work the farm on her own to take care of Samuel.

  Papa approached the porch from the barn. “Elena, I didn’t know you were home.” He removed his hat and wiped his brow. “Didn’t expect you ‘til tomorrow morning.”

  Now if only her parents would understand her choice.

  “Decided to come home early.” Elena tilted her head toward Samuel. “Still needs a nap I see.”

  Papa laughed. “He feels safe with you.”

  She fidgeted with the edge of the quilt. “I always want to take care of him, you know that, right?”

  “Of course, I do.” Papa rested against the post. “We all love Samuel and want what is best for him.”

  The moment for boldness was now. She drew a fortifying breath. “Even if it means allowing him to live with Lars without me if he chooses?”

  Papa scratched his head. “What are you saying?”

  The screen door creaked, and Mama stepped out onto the porch. “Look who’s home.” She glanced around. “Are you by yourself, dear?”

  “Yes, Mama.” Elena brought her index finger to her lips and pointed to her sleeping brother.

  “How nice for us to be a family again.” Mama quieted her voice and stood next to Papa. “Not that I minded having guests, but there are only a few more days until the wedding.”

  Elena gripped the edge of the chair. “Mama, I’m not getting married.”

  “What do you mean, dear? Of course you are.” Mama furrowed her brow, and wrapped an arm around Papa’s waist, apparently needing support. “The wedding is scheduled and your dress—”

  “I want what you and Papa have.” Her voice sounded earnest, desperate. “I want to love the man I marry.”

  Her mother straightened. “We have everything planned. Are nerves getting the best of you?”

  “I’ve known for a while.” Elena searched her mother’s face. Was she upset? Angry?

  Mama’s mouth formed a straight line and her forehead crinkled. “You’re going to ruin everything.” She raced into the house. The front door slapped hard against the frame, waking Samuel.

  Papa remained quiet.

  “Are you disappointed in me too, Papa?” Elena put a voice to her fear.

  “Quite the contrary. Why should I want any less for you than what your mother and I share?” He reached out to her.

  Elena rushed into her father’s arms. “But Mama—”

  “I’ll talk with her. Give her time.”

  Samuel stirred, and then sat straight up and pointed. “Look!”

  “If I’m not mistaken, the man you love is cresting the hill.” Papa grinned down at her. “Come Samuel. I’ll help you inside.”

  Elena shaded her eyes. Could it be?

  Of all the plumb crazy things to do, Elena had ridden back to Harmony without a word to anyone. Seeing Tobias’s horse and wagon brought a mixture of frustration and relief. Why would she leave Cayucos so suddenly?

  What would he have done if something happened to her? Jonas shivered at the thought. His horse moved him closer to the Seifert home and Elena.

  The sadness in her eyes when he rode up to the boardinghouse flashed across his mind. She’d been deep in thought. Burdened. Probably by the news Lars had shared. Jonas’s irritation evaporated.

  Tobias helped Samuel inside the house, leaving Elena alone to watch him approach.

  Jonas attempted to read her face as he drew near. His heart leapt at the expectant look in her eyes and the gentle curve of her mouth.

  He dismounted his horse and tied him to the railing. Without tearing away his gaze, he climbed the stairs and stood near the only woman who made his head swim and his spine tingle. “I’ve been looking for you.”

  “You have?” Elena’s voice lowered a notch. “And why is that?”

  “Because a lady never leaves without telling someone where she’s going.”

  “What if a dairy farmer’s daughter realizes she’s meant to live in the country?” Elena drew her eyes up to meet his.

  Jonas inched closer. “What are you saying?”

  “I broke off my engagement with Lars. We’re not getting married.” Elena tore her gaze away.

  His heart beat a steady rhythm against his ribs. “Does that mean you’re free to love another?”

  Instead of a direct answer, she tilted her head and looked up at him. “What about your feelings, Jonas? I saw the way you embraced Yvette earlier today at the boardinghouse.”

  She thought he was still spoken for. “Jealous, are you?” Jonas grinned.

  “Terribly.” A pretty pout tugged at her lips.

  A smile spread across his face. “Yvette has released me from the promise. Said she wanted to stay in town. But she did know of someone who’d be perfect for me. Someone who enjoyed living in Harmony.” He ran his index finger down the side of her cheek.

  Her eyes softened. She slipped her fingers in the neckline of her dress and drew out the necklace. “I couldn’t marry Lars because I’ve always loved you.”

  She wore the silver locket—the one he gave her all those years ago—with his image inside.

  Standing before him was the one woman he could love forever. “I left Harmony to strike it rich. I wanted a better life than being a dairy farmer. But now I’m wealthier than I’ve ever been because I have your heart.”

  Jonas took hold of Elena’s arms, drawing her against him as his mouth met hers. He wound his arms around her slender frame and deepened the kiss. Her body melded against his as she gave in to his affections.

  “I don’t have much to offer you, besides a working dairy farm.” He bent down on one knee. “But I promise to love you always and take care of you, and your family. Elena, will you do me the honor of becoming my wife?”
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  “Yes! Oh yes!’ A wide grin lit her face, and her laughter rang. “And I’ve got a wedding dress ready and waiting. But first I’ll need to pay Lars for the material.”

  “Allow me.” Jonas stood and swept her up in his arms.

  Epilogue

  Three Days Later

  In her silk wedding gown bearing her mother’s crocheted lace, full sleeves, and a ruffled skirt, Elena held a bouquet of yellow California buttercups, the flowers contrasting beautifully with her white dress.

  Overhead, the branches of the old oak tree stretched out a canopy of leaves to cover them. Elena had been more than giddy when Jonas agreed to be married under their tree by the creek. Her childhood dream had come true—in more ways than one.

  It didn’t take long for Mama to accept Elena’s choice in husband. Now she stood next to her father, blinking rapidly to hold her tears at bay.

  Friends and family members surrounded them. Gabi, looking lovely in ruffles and bows, beamed at Elena’s side. A few feet away stood Yvette and Nicholas, who held baby Willie and kept glancing every so often toward Dana Cavegn. Samuel stood beside Jonas, his chest swollen with pride at the honor of being the best man at his sister’s wedding.

  Pastor Nef began. “Dearly beloved, we are gathered together here, in the sight of God, and in the presence of these witnesses, to join together this man and this woman. Jonas, will thou have this woman to be thy wedded wife, to live together in the holy bonds of matrimony? Wilt thou love her, comfort her, honor and keep her, in sickness and in health; and forsaking all others, keep thee only unto her so long as ye both shall live?”

  Jonas’s hair was combed neatly to the side, brushing against his starched white collar. The dark jacket he wore hugged his broad shoulders. His amber eyes warmed as they gazed into hers. “I will.”

  “Elena, will thou have this man to be thy wedded husband ...”

  So many thoughts swirled through Elena’s head as the pastor continued with the service. Only a short time ago, Jonas was but a distant memory, a man who had captured her heart as a child, then left for San Francisco without a trace. She stifled a giggle at the memory of the night she pointed her father’s shotgun at him. She glanced down at her silver locket, gleaming in the sunlight where it rested against the soft silk, the symbol of her undying love. All these years she had kept it close to her heart, a symbol of her hope that one day he’d return.

  The pastor cleared his throat.

  Jonas squeezed her hand.

  “I will.” Heat rushed up Elena’s neck. She paid close attention the rest of the ceremony, considering her commitment to the man beside her.

  The pastor concluded, “You may now kiss the bride.”

  Jonas inched toward her. He cupped her face and planted the most delicious kiss on her mouth.

  Love and harmony were hers at last.

  Author’s Note

  Dear Reader,

  The history of Road to Harmony is based loosely on actual events. In 1907, rivalries and feuding among dairy farmers caused chaos in the valley. After one shooting death, a truce was called. From then on, all agreed to live in harmony, and named the town Harmony as a symbol of their truce.

  Now the enchanting town of Harmony is a favorite among artists and those who like to venture off the beaten path. Once the site of an old-time creamery, today the historic structures have been artfully repurposed to house a glassblowing studio, blacksmith’s gallery, garden shop, pottery store, music studio and the Harmony Café. Nestled in the hills of Harmony, 5 miles South of Cambria, Harmony Cellars Winery produces award-winning wines and offers a remarkable view of the coastal countryside.

  I had a chance to visit Harmony Valley and the nearby coastal town of Cayucos several years ago. It was fun stepping into the pages of my manuscript and picturing my characters in that setting. If you get a chance to visit, stop by the nearby sites of Morro Bay, scenic Cambria, and Hearst Castle. I promise, you won’t be disappointed.

  I love hearing from my readers! You can write to me at this e-mail address: sherry@sherrykyle.com I hope you enjoyed reading this love story as much as I loved writing it.

  Love and harmony,

  Sherry Kyle

  Acknowledgements

  My heartfelt thanks and appreciation go out to my loving family. Doug, Carson, Brittany, Noah, and Grace—it’s all because of your love, support, and encouragement that this book is a reality. Thank you to my parents, Roy and Billie Hoffman, for always being there for me and cheering me on.

  I am grateful for my critique partners, Karen O’Connor and Sarah Sundin, for all your grammar changes, comments, and smiley faces. This book is better because of you.

  I’m blessed to have such wonderful friends, cheerleaders, and prayer warriors—Marcia, Barbara, Laura, Suzy, Michelle, Kelly, Kira Lee, and Sylvia. You’re the best!

  To the American Christian Fiction Writers, the Christian Authors Network, as well as the many mentors of the Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference, who have provided me with writing wisdom, knowledge, and support. Thank you.

  I appreciate all those who helped me with the research for this novel. Any errors in this manuscript are mine alone.

  Thank you to my agent, Rachel Kent, for believing in me and encouraging me along in this writing journey.

  A big thank you to Virginia Smith for editing the book. I’m so grateful to have worked with you.

  And most importantly, thank you to my Heavenly Father who shows me every day how much He loves me. Your grace knows no bounds.

  About The Author

  Sherry Kyle is a graduate of Biola University with a degree in Speech Pathology and a minor in Bible. Her writing credits include Delivered with Love, The Heart Stone, and Watercolor Dreams, as well as books for tweens.

  Sherry maintains an active membership in a variety of professional organizations, including the American Christian Fiction Writers, Christian Authors Network, and Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. She is also a graduate of the Institute of Children’s Literature.

  Sherry has four children, three biological and one by adoption. When she isn’t writing or reading, she enjoys decorating her beach home, going to jazz concerts with her husband, Douglas, watching movies with her family, and taking long walks along the beach. Sherry and her family live by the coast in Central California. You can connect with her on her website at www.sherrykyle.com

  Praise for Watercolor Dreams

  “In this sweet historical romance – kind of a ‘California 1910’ take on Pride & Prejudice, Anna and Charles must come to terms with others’ expectations of them, with their own misconceptions about each other, and with the machinations of an evil villain.” – Laura Christianson, owner of the Blogging Bistro

  “Watercolor Dreams by Sherry Kyle charmed me. The breezy seaside setting, the historical details, and the entertaining side characters are delightful, but the theme and the conflicted characters take this sweet romance deeper. I highly recommend this novel!”

  – Sarah Sundin, award-winning author of the Waves of Freedom series

  Chapter One

  Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, 1910

  With each stroke of her paintbrush, Anna Lewis’s heart soared. The watercolor painting of Carmel’s white sandy beach and gently rolling Pacific Ocean would surely give her recognition. The wind blew a lock of hair across her face as she sat on the wood bench next to a cypress tree, her easel before her. She tucked the wispy strand behind her ear, pushed up her leg-o’-mutton sleeves, and dipped her brush into the cerulean blue, adding a few touches to the paper. Horse’s hooves clip-clopped behind her. She glanced over her shoulder. A buggy passed on the narrow street, driving by the quaint bungalows bordering the shoreline.

  A man strode up the beach, his hands deep in his trouser pockets and his hat pushed low on his forehead. Anna brought the pointed end of the brush to her mouth and watched him tread near the water’s edge with long, determined steps. She adjusted her wide-brimmed hat and
squinted for a better look. From the way the man walked, he must be mulling over something important. He stopped and faced the ocean. The waves crashed against the shore, the water rushing close to his feet. His lone figure added a touch of poignancy to the landscape and beckoned to be part of her painting.

  But before she had a chance to paint his form, he turned and walked up the beach toward her. His brows were furrowed and his lips pressed together in a firm line. And yet even with this worried expression, he was a most handsome man.

  Her stomach tightened and her heart raced. Would he speak to her? Ask her what she was painting? Maybe discuss the weather or possibly tell her what caused his troubled appearance?

  The man approached within ten feet of her.

  Anna stole a breath and lifted the sides of her mouth into her best smile.

  “Excuse me, sir.” She lifted a hand. “Do you mind standing there by the cypress tree?”

  The man looked at her. “Did you say something?”

  His voice lacked enthusiasm and his eyes held a distant look.

  “Would you be so kind as to hold still? I’d like to add your form to my painting.” Surely the lilt in her voice and the smile she passed his way would bring a change in his demeanor. The rim of her hat bobbed up and down as another gust of air blew across her face.

  The gentleman gave her a quizzical expression, but obliged and leaned against the tree. Did he hear her words or was he so lost in his own thoughts that he’d agreed without understanding what she’d asked?

  Before he changed his mind, Anna sketched his form with her graphite pencil. With delicate strokes, she created his head and neck, broad shoulders, and thin waist. After depicting the rest of him, she cleaned her brush, dipped it into the russet color and filled in the man’s image.

  Once finished, she called to her subject, “Thank you very much. You’ve been most helpful. I hope I didn’t take too much of your time.”

  The young man tipped his hat and shuffled toward the narrow street.