Lois's Risk

by Kimberly Grist

  Lois stifled a gasp with her hand. “Is it from Daniel?”

  Leo handed her the envelope. “I’ll put the closed sign on the door, so you can read it without interruption and be back in a little while to check on you.”

  Lois closed her eyes. It had been nearly two weeks since she received a telegram with a simple message from Daniel, which stated, “hope to be home soon, letter to follow.” She was excited and uneasy wondering what his letter contained.

  Her hands shook. She took a seat next to the window and unfolded the page.

  Dear Lois,

  One of the most difficult decisions I’ve ever made was to end our courtship. If my sister’s despair had not debilitated her in such an extreme way, I never would have done so. This past year I have second-guessed my decision over and over.

  I knew that you deserved better than what I had to offer. This year has not only exhausted me physically but emotionally and financially. It is only within the past few months when Amanda truly began to recover. I have felt as though I could look beyond my family’s needs. That was about the time I heard the bank owner was courting you.

  I carried your letter in my pocket unopened for two weeks because I feared it contained an announcement of your upcoming marriage. I was so convinced that I found it difficult to believe the contents of the letter were real. I can only pray this is not a dream and you will allow me to tell you in person how much I love you.

  We expect to arrive in town, November 9th on the evening train. Because of the late arrival, I hesitate to ask, but I would like to see you even if only for a moment. Please leave a light in the window if it is acceptable for me to call.

  I am counting the days until I can see you again.

  Daniel

  Her heart pounded, she took a deep breath, then reviewed the letter again. Thank you, God, for answering my prayers. Lois ran her finger along the bottom paragraph to check the arrival date, November 9th. She gasped, “Tonight.”

  ***

  Lois twirled, her blue floral skirt swooshed as she studied her reflection in the full-length mirror. Glancing at her watch pinned to her white blouse, she noted the time—eight o’clock. Placing her hand over her heart, she spoke to her reflection. “Any minute now.”

  She hurried to the picture window and gazed toward the tracks. All the town’s shops were closed. The lanterns from the diner and the hotel joined hers to shine a bit of welcome to passengers who would be making Carrie Town their stop this evening.

  Her brother’s boots shuffled on the boardwalk. The bell jingled as he entered her shop. “I’m going to walk over to the station. I’ll escort Daniel over. Then I’ll give you two a little privacy.” He waggled his eyebrows, “Three- or four-minutes’ worth anyway.”

  The shrill sound of the train’s whistle rang out. Lois grabbed her shawl. “Please wait, I’ll go with you.” The coolness of the night air caused her to shiver as they took the short walk to the station. She placed her hand on her stomach when the train came to a stop. “I’m so excited.”

  Clouds of smoke circled them as they watched several passengers disembark. She bit her lip as she recognized Scotty who was wearing a sling. What happened? Where was Daniel?

  As they approached, Daniel stepped down and held his hand out to assist a young woman from the train. He took a bag from the conductor and called out to Scotty. “I’m going to walk Georgia over to the hotel.” Lois blinked as she watched the woman smile at him and place her hand on his arm.

  Leo stiffened. “Let’s get you home. I’ll deal with him later.”

  Lois stifled a sob. I will not cry. She pivoted, picked up her skirts and hurried back toward her apartment. How could she have been so wrong about Daniel’s character?

  A voice called out, “Lois, wait.” Furious, she took her anger out on the boardwalk. Stomping from the station, she entered her shop, slammed the door and secured the lock.

  Chapter 14

  “It is the duty of a gentleman to know how to ride, to shoot, to fence, to box, to swim, to row, and to dance. He should be graceful. If attacked by ruffians,

  a man should be able to defend himself, and also to defend women from their insults.”

  Houghton, Walter R. American Etiquette Rules of Politeness

  New York: Standard Publishing House, 1883.

  Lois took the stairs, hurried to her room, poured water onto a cloth and patted her face. She turned down the lamp and opened the curtains of her bedroom window an inch to peer outside. Her brother’s tall, lanky figure appeared carrying a bag and a rifle. The shadows of a woman walking with two other men in cowboy hats joined him. Lois placed her hand on her neck. They were strolling toward her shop.

  She sat on her bed and crossed her arms. I don’t understand. Daniel’s letter was mailed only two weeks ago. How could his feelings have changed so quickly? She tapped her foot, then sprang to the window again. They were steps away from her shop. She placed her hands on her hips. “The low-down dog, if he thinks I’m going to answer the door, he has another thing coming.”

  The bell on the door and the sounds of voices reminded her of her brother’s possession of a key. She placed her hands on her face and whispered. “Leo, how could you?” The stairs creaked under the weight of heavy work boots. Leo tapped on the door. “Sis, can I come in?”

  Lois huffed, opened the door and scowled at him, “I can’t believe you brought them back here.”

  “Listen, I know what it looked like. Believe me, it was all I could do not to punch Daniel in the mouth. But there is a good explanation.”

  “I don’t want to hear it,” she said.

  Leo ignored her and motioned with his thumb. “The woman at the station is a lady doctor who’s been treating Scotty. She’s taking the first train out tomorrow. Scotty was to wait at the station for their bags while Daniel escorted her to the hotel. He was planning on coming here after he made sure she was delivered safely.”

  Lois’s lips quivered. “I don’t know if I believe that.”

  “Can’t say anyone would blame you. Which is why they’re all here.” Leo handed her the wet cloth. “Try and cool your face off. You’re all blotchy. Then come on out. Scotty needs to get home, and I imagine the doctor lady is tired too. You’re going to like her.”

  Pouring more water on the cloth, Lois pressed it to her face. She peered in the mirror at her reflection. Leo was right. She looked a mess. Rearranging her hair, she dabbed her face again and took in a deep breath. “Please ask them to come to the parlor. I’ve got some food ready.”

  She squared her shoulders and took the few steps into her living area. A tray covered in checkered napkins sat on her dining table. Coffee was ready. Would they be hungry? She placed her hand on her chest. I wish I’d never walked with Leo to the station.

  The tell-tale squeak of the stairs signaled her guests. She placed her hands to her warm cheeks, then turned to meet her visitors. She avoided Daniel’s eyes when he made the introductions. Leo was correct. The young doctor was amiable. Her blue eyes sparkled as she explained how she, Scotty and Daniel had become acquainted. “Daniel spoke of you so often. I feel as though I know you already. I hope you don’t mind that I invited myself here to meet you?”

  Lois’s eyes burned and her chest felt heavy, but she smiled as the men devoured the sandwiches and Doctor Lane chatted happily.

  Scotty rose and offered to escort the doctor to the hotel. Leo interrupted, “I’d be glad to do the honors, Scotty. I’m sure your parents are anxious to see you. Why don’t you get on home?”

  The tick of her mantle clock seemed to match the quick beat of her heart as the group left, leaving her and Daniel alone. Her eyes filled with tears. Oh, for goodness sakes, I must look like a ninny.

  Daniel stepped to her side and pulled her into his arms. “I’ve hardly slept a wink these last several nights dreaming about seeing you again and telling you in person how much I love you. I’m sorry for the impression I gave at the station. Georgia has become a good fr
iend to Scotty and me., I promised her pa we would watch out for her.”

  He lifted her chin and gazed into her eyes. “Please forgive me, not only for tonight but for the way I handled this past year. I thought I was doing the best thing for you, figured you would forget me soon enough. When I heard the banker was courting you, I thought you had.”

  She reached into her sleeve for a handkerchief. “I’m so happy you are back and safe and… here with me.”

  His eyebrows drew together. “You don’t look so happy.”

  Lois patted her face with her handkerchief. “I will never be accused of being able to cry prettily.”

  “Hopefully, this will be the last time I make you weep. I mean to concentrate on making you smile from here on out.” Daniel reached for her hand and brought it to his lips.

  Moments passed as they clasped hands and gazed at one another. The steps on the stairs signaled the return of her brother. Daniel spoke softly. “If it’s all right, I’ll stop by in the morning on my way to the sheriff’s office. Then we can talk about me accompanying you to the reception.”

  Lois beamed. “I look forward to it.”

  ***

  The next day showed bright and beautiful. Preparations were in full swing for her friend Rebecca’s marriage, which would be at the church, followed by a reception at the hotel. Lois watched Emma and Rebecca cross the street to her shop promptly at nine o’clock.

  Lois dragged both women into a hug as they entered. “Rebecca and I can’t wait for you to see your gown.” Lois gave Emma another squeeze, then took her by the hand to the changing area.

  “What do you think?” Lois smiled then turned Emma toward the mannequin.

  Emma gasped. “It’s the most beautiful design I have ever seen.”

  “Which is what we were hoping you’d say. The girls are going to wear a complimentary rose, which they insist is pink.” Rebecca lifted a small silk-and-lace dress and held it up against the mannequin.

  Emma fingered the folds of the fabric. “It’s beautiful. I don’t believe I’ve ever seen a gown this color.”

  “The bluish-purple fabric will complement your blond hair and your big brown eyes,” Lois said.

  A tap on the door interrupted them. “Didn’t you put up the closed sign?” Rebecca asked.

  “Yes,” Lois felt her cheeks burn. “I’d better go see who it is. You two stay here. I won’t be a minute.”

  The door closed behind her with a loud bang. Slow down, remain calm. Her boots tapped and she forced herself to walk to the front of the shop. Daniel’s smile reached his dark brown eyes as she opened the door.

  He took off his hat and placed it over his heart. The morning sun shone on his hair, which reminded her of a dark autumn leaf, reddish chestnut, blended with various shades of brown. “Ma’am, I see this shop is closed, But I have a bit of an emergency.”

  Her eyebrows rose. “An emergency?”

  “Yes, you see I can’t seem to get the owner of this establishment off my mind. She’s a miracle worker too. Because anyone who can get my sister to work for more than a few minutes at a time is a marvel.”

  “I believe you are quite mistaken, sir. For it would be the owner of the shop’s mother who carried out that phenomenon.” Lois gave a smile. “Your sister is an excellent worker. Between you and me, she could sell hay to a farmer.”

  Daniel put his hand on his stomach and responded with a big gusty laugh. “It seems the owner is her mother’s prodigy.”

  He stepped into the shop and placed one hand on the door frame. “I was wondering if she might allow this farmer to escort her to a wedding this afternoon? Maybe even send me off with a kiss to confirm the engagement?”

  Lois raised her eyebrows. “Engagement?”

  “Should I have said rendezvous?” Daniel’s eyes twinkled.

  Lois shook her head and smiled coyly. “I think not.”

  A loud clatter sounded behind them. Daniel stiffened. “What was that?”

  “Rebecca and Emma are in the dressing room.” Lois waved her hand. “Rebecca is probably hanging out the window trying to see whose horse is out front.”

  Daniel’s eyes widened. “You mean she’s done this sort of thing before?”

  “On multiple occasions. If she’s not successful, she’ll be looking through the keyhole next.” Lois met his gaze.

  Daniel leaned forward. His face was freshly shaven and smelled of lavender and citrus. “Tell me, does the owner know her keyhole is used nefariously?”

  Her heart pounded. She placed her hand on his arm and spoke softly. “I’m afraid the owner is guilty of utilizing the same method.”

  Daniel’s eyes darkened. He reached for her hand and kissed it. “Appalling.”

  A loud thump followed by a chorus of giggles reminded them of the bride and bridesmaid who required her attention. She cleared her throat. “The wedding is at three o’clock. I’ll meet you there.”

  “In the meantime, I am going to talk to your pa this morning. Are things any better between you two?” His dark eyebrows slanted downward.

  She forced a smile. “He is still upset, I used the inheritance from my grandmother to establish this shop, but he doesn’t chastise me about it anymore. Pa is at least speaking to me. I still struggle not to be hurt by some of his comments. Especially when he says, ‘it’s a shame I wasn’t born a man.’”

  He reached for a lock of hair that framed her face and wrapped it around his finger. “I for one am very glad you are a woman. I’m proud of what you have done here and will support you any way I can.” Their lips met.

  Daniel placed his hat back on his head and winked. “I’ll see you in church at three o’clock.”

  Chapter 15

  “Wedding cards are only sent to those people whom the newly married couple desire to keep among their acquaintances, and it is then the duty

  of those receiving the cards to call first on the young couple.”

  Houghton, Walter R. American Etiquette Rules of Politeness

  New York: Standard Publishing House, 1883.

  With moments to spare, Daniel slid into the pew next to Lois and clasped her hand. She looked beautiful in a blue satin dress that brought out the same color in her eyes. “Sorry I’m late, Rebecca’s pa arranged for music at the reception, and Sam asked me to bring my fiddle to lend a hand.”

  “I’ve only been seated a few moments myself.” She smiled and squeezed his hand. The pianist began to play.

  Sam’s twin daughters walked down the aisle in matching pink dresses. They threw rose petals and walked in perfect time until one was momentarily distracted and waved at Helen.

  Lois’s eyes lit up when Emma entered wearing a beautiful plum-colored gown. She wore her hair partially down and curled in a formal style.

  Daniel chuckled softly and whispered, “How did you get Emma to sit still long enough for that?” He stood with the congregation when the bride entered with her father, but his enjoyment came from Lois as she watched her two friends. Her lips quivered, and a single tear rolled down her cheek. Thankful his sister reminded him to bring a handkerchief; he passed it to Lois who met his gaze with a watery smile.

  His talk with her parents earlier had gone well. Now if he could just get the courage to propose. He patted his vest pocket and felt the presence of the ring box. Doctor Lane had accompanied him back to the jeweler and confirmed his choice. “Even though I have never met Lois, from what you tell me about her, it’s perfect.”

  But should he wait to ask? No, he made up his mind if given another chance he wouldn’t waste time. If she said no, he would give it some time, then ask again.

  Applause erupted at the pastor’s announcement, introducing the bride and groom interrupting his thoughts.

  He stood with Lois while the bridal party made their exit. “Those are two of the prettiest dresses I believe you’ve ever made, not counting the one you have on, of course.”

  “They are beautiful.” She put her hand to her mouth. “I suppose tha
t’s bragging, isn’t it.?”

  “Rightly so,” Daniel watched his niece join her mother. “I love my niece, but my sister’s well enough now to look after Helen. So, don’t offer to watch her.”

  Lois met Daniel’s eyes. “All right.”

  ***

  Daniel’s eyebrows rose when they entered the hotel’s ballroom. Silver chafing dishes lined the banquet tables, filling the room with delicious aromas. Multiple rectangular tables covered in white fabric and candles formed a U shape to make room for a dance floor.

  A pianist and violinist played softly as people mingled in small groups. He took Lois’s wrap and his hat and passed them to the attendant, then whispered in her ear, “This must have set her father back a bit.”

  She elbowed him good-naturedly. “Behave.”

  “Yes, ma’am.” He grinned.

  A quick rendition of the wedding march signaled the entrance of the bride and groom, who made their way to the dance floor for the first waltz. Daniel encircled Lois in his arms. He whispered in her ear, “Nothing compares to the feeling of holding you close.”

  The clinking of glass signaled the father of the bride. “We have a special request from my daughter and her new husband. After dinner, they would very much like for Mr. Daniel Lawrence to accompany our musicians and for Sheriff Scott to be good enough to do the calling for a few dances.”

  Sounds of laughter and applause filled the room as individuals took their seats. A delicious meal of smoked beef, roasted potatoes and assorted vegetables was served. “I can’t think of anywhere I’d rather be than with you tonight,” Daniel whispered.

  Lois nodded, her blue eyes sparkling. “I wouldn’t change a thing. I’m especially excited about hearing you play.”

  His eyebrows narrowed. “You know how much I love to fiddle, the only thing I regret is I’ll miss out on dancing with you.”