Monk's Bride

by Caroline Clemmons

  Dudley crept behind Brown and threw his arms around the culprit. Blood dripped from an egg-sized lump on Dudley’s head.

  Monk pulled Betsie away from Brown and into his arms. She sobbed against his chest.

  Liam reached for her. “Ma? Ma? Don’t cry.”

  Monk lifted the boy and cradled him with one arm and Betsie with the other. He’d failed to protect his family.

  Thank you, Lord, for Dudley.

  Rafe headed for the door. “I’ll get the sheriff.”

  Grandpa looked at Brown. “The sheriff won’t be long. You’ll be a guest of the county until your trial. Don’t think that will take long, either. By the way, I’m the judge who’ll be sentencing you if the jury finds you guilty. I’d say the chances they will are high.”

  Brown wriggled trying to escape from Dudley. “You’ll never keep me in jail. You have no idea who you’re up against. Downum never loses.”

  Fiona removed the silk cord tie-back from one of the draperies. “Perhaps this will help until Bill arrives.”

  Sheriff Bill McAfee rushed into the room with his handcuffs ready. “My evening patrol had brought me as far as the end of the block when Rafe hailed me. He’s gone to get the doc for Dudley. Looks like you folks had a busy evening.”

  Dudley helped Bill subdue Brown until the man’s hands were cuffed behind him. “I don’t need Dr. Percival. My head’s too hard to be damaged.”

  Grandpa pointed at the big man. “You let the doc look at that blow. We can’t take chances with your well being. Once again, Dudley, you’ve been injured saving our family. Don’t think I’ll forget it, either.”

  Mrs. Peacock rushed to tend Dudley. “Oh, my poor, brave husband, let me look at that gash. You have a lump the size of a goose egg.”

  Dudley put his arm around her. “Now, Molly, don’t be carrying on. Rafe’s gone for the doctor, but I’m fine.”

  Mrs. Peacock brushed his hair aside from his head to get a better view of his injury. “Sit down right now. I’ll chip some ice from the block in the ice box and make a cold pack for that lump until the doctor arrives.”

  Heidi turned. “I’ll do it while you take care of him.”

  Deputy Mitchum came in. “Front door was open and Rafe said you caught the guy. Shall I take him to the jail?”

  Brown’s string of curses won him a backhand to his mouth from the sheriff. “There are ladies and a child present, so you clean up your mouth. We don’t hold with that kind of talk here.”

  Brown shouted through a split lip, “Did you see that? He hit a prisoner unable to defend himself. You won’t get away with this. I have powerful friends.”

  “I’ll hit you again if you don’t shut up.” Bill tugged on Brown’s arm. “We’ll both take him so these folks don’t have to listen to him squawk.”

  Monk glared at Brown. “I wish I’d had the pleasure of hitting him.”

  Bill grinned at Monk. “Sorry, only officers of the law get that privilege.”

  He gestured to the others in the room. “Each of you write down everything you remember about this man’s threats, and I mean every detail. I’ll pick up the statements tomorrow.”

  “I’ll see you out.” Fiona moved briskly.

  Monk cradled Betsie. “Sit down unless I need to help you upstairs to your room.”

  Betsie held onto his arm. “I’ll be fine now that he’s gone. I was so frightened. Thank heavens for Dudley.”

  “Ma, why did that man hurt-ed you?”

  She hugged her son to her. “Because he’s mean. You mustn’t worry about him now because the sheriff has taken him to jail so he can’t hurt anyone again.”

  Liam reached for his special seat. “I didn’t finish my chicken.”

  Monk lifted Liam back onto his chair. Apparently the boy was almost always hungry. Monk was certain Liam had already grown an inch since he’d arrived in Kincaid Springs.

  When Fiona returned, Rafe and Dr. Percival followed her.

  The doctor nodded at Dudley. “Why don’t we go into the kitchen so I can get a good look at that head and get your injury cleaned?” He handed over a handkerchief. “You’re bleeding onto your shirt.”

  Rafe plopped onto a chair. “Whew, I’m out of shape. All that running has me winded.”

  Grandpa stood. “Don’t anyone leave. I’ll be back with supplies.” He headed toward his study.

  Fiona stacked and cleared the dinner remains. She held the platter of leftover chicken for her grandson. “Liam, would you like another piece of chicken?”

  The boy reached for one. “Grandma, I like drumsticks ’cause they have handles. Can I have more potatoes, too?”

  “You may and I’ll bring you more milk.” She carried out a stack of dishes.

  Monk gathered up more to clear the table. Rafe pitched in, too.

  Betsie started to join them, but Monk said, “Sit with your son.” He regretted the tone of his voice, which made him sound as if he’d ordered her. Nevertheless, she stayed by Liam.

  Her face was still pale, but she’d used her handkerchief to wipe away the droplets of blood. The nicks still showed on her skin. That they were so close to a main neck vein made Monk’s knees go weak.

  Grandpa returned with sheets of paper and pencils to go around. “Good, the table’s cleaned off enough we can write our statements while the event is fresh in our mind.”

  Betsie shuddered then accepted a pencil and sheet of paper. “I’ll never forget anything about tonight.”

  Grandpa shook his head. “That’s what you think now, but details fade. We need every single thing you can remember, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant.” He sat down and started writing.

  Fiona returned and picked up her pencil. “Don’t forget Dudley, Mrs. Peacock, Heidi, and Polly.”

  Grandpa nodded. “I’m not likely to, not with Dudley sporting a knot the size of Liam’s hand. He can’t keep taking the brunt of our fracases.”

  Betsie looked up from writing. “What else happened to him?”

  Fiona waved a hand. “I included the incident in a letter but I’ll tell you again later, dear.”

  Around the table, each wrote tonight’s events as he or she recalled.

  Monk ran his fingers through his hair, unable to express the horror of seeing Brown’s knife at Betsie’s throat. He couldn’t relate in words how helpless he’d felt. Instead, he would do his best to tell the basic facts. Clutching the pencil, he wrote, starting with peacefully eating supper.

  Chapter Twelve

  Betsey walked with one hand on Monk’s arm and her other hand holding Liam’s. “Father Patrick is very different from our priest in Memphis.”

  Monk smiled at her. “He’s a kind man who genuinely cares about his parishioners.”

  Liam tugged on her hand. “Ma, I’m hungry. Are we almost to Grandma’s?”

  “We are and then you can have breakfast.” They walked slowly so Liam could keep up with them.

  “Why do Grandma and Grandpa get to eat before they go to their church and we don’t?”

  “I explained to you, Liam. Different churches have different beliefs. There’s only one God, though, so don’t let the differences worry you.”

  “We should only go to a church where we can eat first.”

  She yanked his hand. “Young man, you are thinking too much about food. This is the day set aside to worship God not to placate your stomach.”

  “I’m sorry, Ma, but I’m hungry. I’m a growing boy ’member and need to eat.”

  She fought down the smile that threatened. Mam frequently told Liam he was a growing boy. “I remember. You remember to be respectful.”

  Monk chuckled. “Did you sleep at all last night?”

  “Not much. Are you asking because I’m grumpy this morning?”

  He laughed aloud. “What a loaded question. I’m asking because I wondered if you were able to sleep. I had trouble and thought you might as well.”

  “I kept seeing Hector Brown grabbing me even though in re
ality I didn’t see his face when he did. I recognized his voice but in my nightmares I saw his every move.”

  Monk sent her a sweet smile. “I hope the images will fade.”

  “Now I worry about Downum showing up in Kincaid Springs. I can’t see him forgetting what he sees as an unpaid debt.”

  “We’ll be ready if he shows up. You’re not alone here. Surely you know you have an entire town supporting you now.”

  She glanced at the man beside her. “I feel blessed, Monk. I’ve felt alone for so long. Mam left because she thought Rolf and I would get along better if she were gone. Actually, he acted worse without her watchful eyes. I don’t want her to know that, you understand?”

  “Certainly, she only wants the best for you.”

  “She’s a wonderful mother. Da was a wonderful father and husband even though he didn’t make much money. We were a happy family until Da died.”

  “His death must have been a terrible blow to both of you.”

  “We were devastated. Mam didn’t seem to recover but I met Rolf and thought I was in love. Now I know it was a silly infatuation brought on by losing Da. At least it brought me Liam.”

  “That’s behind you, Betsie. You and Liam are where you belong.”

  “Are you going to continue staying with Grandpa and Mam until your addition is complete?” She held her breath waiting on his reply.

  “I don’t know what to do. Grandpa invited me to remain.”

  “Then, you should.” She enjoyed spending more time with Monk. Enjoyed him too much, she was afraid. Liam was developing too great an attachment to him, too. What would happen when Monk finally returned to his home?

  “The addition is progressing quickly. The work should be completed by the end of the week.”

  “You promised me a tour.”

  “I haven’t forgotten. I’ve spoken to Mrs. Lopez. She’ll prepare dinner one evening for you, Liam, Fiona, and Grandpa.”

  “That sounds lovely.”

  “She isn’t as good a cook as Polly, but she’s quite capable.”

  “I doubt many cooks are as adept as Polly. I’ve never had such delicious meals, not even Mam’s. Please don’t repeat that.”

  Monk laughed. “Do I look stupid? Don’t answer that.”

  “Even though you said not to answer, no, you don’t. I have to be careful or I’ll outgrow my new clothes.”

  “You look lovely in them but they can probably be altered.”

  Betsie peered at her gray faille dress trimmed in darker grosgrain. Her gray kid gloves and slippers matched. She wore a dark gray hat decorated with a lighter-colored ostrich feather and ribbons. Having so many dresses with accessories to match made her feel like a princess.

  She didn’t want to take them for granted. “I’m not certain but I hope not to find out if alterations are possible. Do you always wear black?” She wished she’d thought before she posed the question.

  Monk didn’t appear offended. “Always have since I went to live with Nate’s family. Does that bother you?”

  “Quite the contrary, you always look neat and professional. I was merely curious. I wondered if this was because of your position at the bank or an expression of your personality.”

  He chuckled. “I don’t think I have a black personality. Guess I identified with the priest who helped my family while my mother was so ill. I promised him I’d always attend church when it was possible.”

  “I’m glad you do. Having you accompany me made our going much easier.” Still, she hadn’t missed the whispers when they came in together.

  “I have to admit escorting you and Liam is a privilege. I’m sure I’m the envy of every man there.”

  “Are you coming with us to the Presbyterian service?”

  His voice changed, as if devoid of emotion. “Not sure. Probably I’ll go to my place and check the progress.”

  Liam opened the gate and yelled, “Hooray, we’re at Grandma’s.” He ran to the front porch.

  Betsie’s protests remained unstated. If Monk thought it was okay for her to attend two church services, why wouldn’t he?

  Inside, they arrived as the rest of the family gathered for breakfast. While Betsie removed her hat, Fiona helped Liam onto his special chair.

  She smiled at Betsie. “Seems like a lovely morning. Did you enjoy the walk?”

  “Very much, but I think we’re in for heat later in the day.” She took her seat beside Liam.

  Polly brought out a bowl of gravy. Mrs. Peacock carried a basket of biscuits and bowl of fried potatoes and onions. Heidi carried in a bowl of scrambled eggs. His head bandaged, Dudley carried in a platter of bacon and sausages.

  Monk asked, “How’s the head, Dudley?”

  “Fine, but Molly won’t let me out of her sight. Might as well help out since she’s keen on watching every move I make.”

  Grandpa took a large helping of potatoes. “May as well. Once a woman sets her mind on coddling you, resistance is a waste of effort.”

  Fiona sent him what was probably intended as a glare but her sparkling brown eyes gave away her true mood. “See you remember that, Rob Kincaid.”

  After breakfast, Betsie and Fiona helped clear the table.

  Fiona said, “Drake and Pearl are coming for dinner after church. Liam will have cousins to play with him.”

  Betsie glanced toward her son. “I hope that goes well. Do you have another high chair?”

  Fiona laughed. “We have two more. Rob wasn’t taking any chances on needing more than we could accommodate. Beth doesn’t use one now but Parker does. He’s the same age as Liam.”

  When everything was tidy so that Polly, Heidi, and the Peacocks could also attend church, Beth and Fiona joined the men in the parlor. Liam sat beside Monk on the couch.

  Rafe sat opposite them. “I guess I’ll move back to my rooms tonight. At least they’ll be all spruced up with fresh paint on the walls in a color I chose. Adair and his son finished them Friday afternoon.”

  Grandpa rested in his favorite high-backed chair. “Hate to see you go, but I understand. Reckon you’ll be glad to be back in your rooms before the Evans trial starts.”

  “Sure hope I’m as ready as I believe.”

  Grandpa turned to Monk. “You might as well remain here until that addition is complete. Don’t want folks thinking you made up the excuse.”

  “By now everyone in town knows about the arrest. I’m sure they’ve figured out why Rafe and I were here. Although I appreciate your hospitality more than I can say, I think it’s best if I go home.”

  Grandpa gave a tilt of his head in acknowledgment. “Well, you’re not a prisoner, so suit yourself.”

  Liam looked up at Monk. “Who’s gonna read about Tom if you aren’t here?”

  Monk ruffled the boy’s hair. “I imagine your ma will continue the story for you. Did you understand that several of your cousins are coming here after church?”

  “They are? I hope they like me.”

  Monk said, “Of course they’ll like you. You’re a fine boy.”

  The clock in the entry chimed the half hour.

  Grandpa stood. “Time for us to go.”

  Monk stood. “Hug me goodbye, Liam. I’ll get my things and go to my house.”

  Liam scrunched up his face. “I don’t want you to go.”

  Monk picked him up. “Hey, none of that. You’ll be busy playing with your cousins and won’t even notice I’m gone. One day this week, you and Ma and Grandma and Grandpa are coming to see my house.”

  Liam hugged his neck. “Bye, Monk.”

  Betsie was angry with Monk. She understood he liked his own home, but why wouldn’t he take the opportunity to remain close to her and Liam?

  Monk set down Liam and took Betsie’s hand. “I’ll be in touch with you soon. In the meantime, take care of yourself and Liam.”

  “Seems to me you might have remained here to insure that happened.”

  He exhaled as if frustrated. “Betsie, I don’t live here. You and Lia
m do. Me hanging on isn’t proper.”

  “Suit yourself.” She pulled her hand from his, took Liam by his hand, and walked toward the door.

  Fiona followed, stopping at the hall tree to don her hat.

  Grandpa shook his head and clapped him on the shoulder. “She doesn’t understand what being close but not close enough means. You’re a good man, and I sure won’t forget it.”

  “Thank you for understanding. I hope she’ll get over her annoyance.”

  “She will, she will.” He walked toward the front door.

  Chapter Thirteen

  Betsie couldn’t stop thinking about Monk abandoning her for his home. Had he changed his mind about courting her? If not, he had an odd way of showing his affection.

  She kept her thoughts to herself while Pearl and Drake were visiting. In the playroom, Liam and Parker acted as if they’d been lifelong friends. Beth stayed with them while Jerusha read. Robbie and Evan went outside to play.

  Pearl was one of the most beautiful women Betsie had ever seen. Her unusual lavender eyes held kindness. “Fiona and Grandpa are so relieved you’re here with them, Betsie. I’m glad you’re in Kincaid Springs with your family.”

  “Thank you. Liam is having the time of his life with Parker and Beth.”

  “Parker needs someone his age. Since he’s the youngest, he gets left out of a lot of games. He’s not allowed in the children’s fort unless I’m nearby.”

  “What kind of fort?”

  Pearl waved her hand dismissively. “Not a real one, of course. They’ve dragged dead limbs and odd pieces of wood to make a barricade on three sides with a hill as the fourth side. I hate them playing there but Drake and Storm tell me I’m being overprotective.”

  Betsie nodded. “I suppose mothers are apt to be more protective than men.”

  “When I think of some of the things Storm did as a child, my knees grow weak. Sarah always stayed in or near the house but Storm roamed all over.”