A Bride For Christmas (Spinster Mail-Order Brides Book 2) Page 5

  She shrugged and began to offload her findings. He reached out and stopped her. “Don’t do that. We’ll work something out, I’m sure,” he told her, his fingers intertwining with hers.

  He was so close to her face, and if she didn’t know better, would have thought he was about to kiss her.

  He suddenly pulled back. “If you have everything you need, I suggest we return. It’s only going to get colder.”

  He pulled out his pocket-watch. “Mrs Grogan will be watching the time for sure.”

  She finished returning all the goodies to the basket and they began their journey back. “It might be cold, but I’m enjoying our stroll,” she told him.

  He stared into her eyes. “Me too. I enjoy your company, Miss Harken. Very much so.”

  Her heart fluttered. He didn’t say he enjoyed her cooking, which is what he usually said. He had clearly said he enjoyed her company.

  “And I enjoy your company, Mr Williams.”

  They returned via a different route, Mr Williams wanting to show her more of the township. “Oh look,” she said, pointing to a little cabin on a hillside. “There’s smoke coming out of the chimney. I’ll bet it’s cozy and warm in there.”

  He grinned at her. “That’s old Mrs Jones place. She only visits town when she needs supplies – about once a month.”

  “Surely she didn’t come on the wagon train alone?” The way Melody understood it, that wouldn’t be allowed.

  Mr Williams glanced toward the cabin. “Her husband died last year. His was the second funeral this town has seen.”

  His face went ashen and she knew something was very wrong, but perhaps now was not the time to ask.

  He adjusted his scarf around his neck, then tightened his grip on her arm. “We must go quickly. The wind has picked up.”

  They resumed their trek and Melody suddenly stopped. “Is that…” She touched her nose. “Yes, it’s snow!” she said excitedly.

  It was only light, and it melted almost the moment it touched the ground, but it truly was snow.

  “Oh dear. We must get back quickly. It can be dangerous if the snow gets too heavy. We don’t want to be stuck out here.”

  She looked back toward the woods and watched mesmerized as the snow balanced on the edge of the branches. She’d never seen anything like it.

  By the time they arrived back at the edge of town, it was snowing quite heavily. Melody dropped the basket to the ground outside the Grogan’s house, then spun around in a circle, watching the snow fall.

  “This is magical,” she shouted, holding her hands out so the snow would fall into them.

  He laughed. “Give it a few weeks and you might change your mind.” He didn’t laugh often, but when he did, it lit up his face. It was almost like he was a different person. “We’d better get inside. Mrs Grogan will be worrying about you. Because of the snow, I mean.”

  She nodded and picked up the basket. “We have apple and rhubarb pie waiting. That will help warm us up.”

  As they made their way toward the gate, she lost her footing and involuntarily screamed. Mr Williams reached out and stopped her landing on the snow-covered ground.

  His face was so close to hers, and his strong arms supported her. He stared into her eyes, and lowered his face to hers. “Miss Harken,” he said softly, and she was certain this time he would kiss her. Or perhaps that was just wishful thinking?

  “Mr Williams,” Mrs Grogan said sternly. “What are you doing to Miss Harken?”

  He straighten up and pulled Melody with him. “I…”

  “I slipped, Mrs Grogan,” Melody interrupted. “Mr Williams saved me from falling.”

  “Hmph!” Mrs Grogan turned and walked inside. “Hurry up then, the pie is getting cold,” she said over her shoulder.

  Their eyes met, and Melody could see his disappointment. It was nothing compared to hers.

  What just happened?

  Pete looked down into the bowl containing a huge piece of warm apple and rhubarb pie with cream. A mug of coffee sat in front of him.

  He dared not look up with Melody sitting opposite. He didn’t know what he’d do if he saw pleading in her eyes. Not that he expected to. They barely knew each other.

  What happened outside was an accident. She almost fell, and he stopped her before she hit the ground.

  That was it. End of story. At least that’s what he tried to convince himself.

  “Thank you for saving me, Mr Williams,” she said quietly. “I could have been severely injured if you hadn’t caught me in time.”

  He inwardly winced. Now he had no choice but to look at her. “I really didn’t do much. I did what any decent person would do – I stopped you from falling.”

  She studied him. “Now I understand what you meant when you said snow is dangerous.”

  Mrs Grogan snorted. “Dangerous? Really Mr Williams!” He turned to look at her - she’d obviously never slipped on the stuff.

  “You weren’t there, Mrs Grogan,” Melody chimed in. “If it wasn’t for Mr Williams, I would have been flat on my back.”

  The older woman looked shocked.

  “I did tell you Mr Williams saved me. I wasn’t lying.” She looked hurt to think Mrs Grogan would think she’d tell a lie.

  “She could have hit her head and seriously injured herself.” He had no idea why he was defending Melody against such insinuations, but he felt it was his duty to do so.

  Mrs Grogan looked from one to the other of them. “I believe you. Don’t worry yourselves.” Then she smiled. “More pie, Mr Williams?”

  “I’d love it, but my belly is bursting at the seams. Thank you all for such a wonderful day.” He looked directly at Melody as he said the words. The others blended into the background.

  Melody got to her feet. “You’re not leaving us are you? There’s a roaring fire in the sitting room.” She refilled the kettle and collected his empty bowl and mug. “I’ll get you a fresh coffee.”

  “If you insist,” he said, noting the pleading in her eyes. He certainly enjoyed her company, but didn’t want to outstay his welcome. “I don’t want to make a nuisance of myself.”

  “You’re never a nuisance, Mr Williams,” Mrs Grogan said sternly. “Our door is always open.” She smiled then helped Melody clear the rest of the dishes away.

  The two men made their way into the sitting room, and chatted about nothing for awhile. It wasn’t long before they both dozed in the warmth of the fire. It was funny how the fire in here warmed the house so completely, yet at home, it did little.

  Perhaps it was the company that made the difference? He began to doze again, this time lulled into a much deeper sleep, but was awoken with a start.

  “Oh, I didn’t mean to wake you, Mr Williams,” Melody said, placing the hot mug on a small nearby table.

  He could get used to this. Spending his day off sitting by the fire after a nice roast and a walk with his wife. Coffee by the fire, and even dozing in his chair.

  Was that what Doc Grogan did? He glanced across to see the older man doing just that. He looked so peaceful, and Pete smiled.

  He definitely could get used to that.

  “Melody,” he said quietly, lifting the mug. “I’m very sorry for what happened when you arrived in town.”

  She put up her hand to stop him. “No need. All is forgiven.” She smiled but he wasn’t certain the smile was genuine. He needed to find a way to put this right.

  Sitting herself down in the empty chair next to him, Melody turned toward him. “I really enjoyed our stroll today. Even if I did embarrass myself toward the end.” She looked down into her lap.

  He reached across and lifted her chin, then stared into those beautiful eyes. He could easily get lost in them. “Don’t feel embarrassed on my account. New snow can be slippery, as you’ve discovered, and you’re not used to it.”

  He reached out and covered her hand with his own. It felt nice. Her skin was so soft and gentle. She didn’t attempt to pull away, and he left it right whe
re it was.

  A man could certainly get used to this.

  Chapter Seven

  Pete hung the sign on the Post Office window: Back in 15 minutes

  He straightened his tie, did up his jacket, and placed his hat on his head. He snatched up the telegram, and pulled on his thick woolen coat.

  Now the snow had arrived, it would be colder than ever. He dragged on his gloves after he locked the door.

  He’d intended to visit the Mercantile today, but the telegram brought that visit forward. “Good morning, Edward,” he said, handing over the telegram. “This just arrived.”

  Edward finished with his customer before reading the telegram. “Good. My delivery will finally arrive today. Excellent news. Thank you, Pete.”

  Pete stayed where he was.

  “Is there something else I can help you with?”

  Pete looked around the store, ensuring no one could overhear him. “I need some red and gold ribbon,” he said quietly.

  Edward grinned. “Making something special, are we?” he joked.

  It wasn’t appreciated. Pete straightened his shoulders and glared at the Mercantile owner. “It’s a gift for a young lady.” His patience was running out. “So do you have any? Oh, and some twine too please.”

  Edward strolled toward a shelf at the back of the store. He handed over a roll of twine. Then he looked thoughtful. “I’m sure I have some ribbon here. It’s so long since I’ve sold any, I can’t quite think where it is.”

  He slowly turned, looking over all the shelves. “Ah! There it is.” He stepped toward a shelf of Christmas supplies. “I sell it by the yard or on the roll. Your choice.”

  “I’ll take a roll of each, thank you,” he said. His purchases were added to a brown paper bag, and added to his account.

  He left the store whistling, and almost skipped as he returned to the Post Office. He hoped his surprise brightened Melody’s day. She deserved some happiness.

  The rest of the morning went slowly by, but would soon pick up when the train arrived. Once the letters and packages were in, he’d be busy sorting.

  This afternoon the Post Office would be overwhelmed with people coming to collect their mail. Those living out of town only came every couple of weeks to collect their mail.

  He spent most of the morning tidying up, readying the shelves for the incoming mail.

  “Good morning, Mr Williams,” she said with a grin.

  His head shot up. He was shocked to see Melody standing in front of him. “Good morning. I didn’t hear you come in.”

  She laughed and the tinkling sound made his heart skip a beat. “Mrs Grogan wanted me to ensure you came for luncheon today.”

  He stared at her. “I couldn’t. You’ve all been too kind, but it can’t go on forever.”

  Her smile dropped, and she suddenly looked saddened. “We enjoy your company,” she said. “And it’s no sacrifice to have one extra person. We’re having chicken and vegetable soup with biscuits.”

  It made his mouth water just thinking about it. “It sounds delicious, but I couldn’t.”

  She reached across the counter and snatched up his hands. “Please, Mr Williams,” she said quietly. “I do so enjoy your company, and I’ve made plenty.”

  He looked into her eyes, and felt drawn in. “How can I say no to that?” He pulled one of her hands to his lips. “I would be very grateful, thank you, Miss Harken. Can you give me a moment? There’s something I have to do first.”

  She nodded and he ran into the residence, returning with the brown paper bag. He’d intended to visit after the Post Office closed, but this would do nicely.

  On his return, he put on his coat, slipping the bag into one of the pockets, and was glad to see Melody wore her coat too.

  “Did you notice the snow, Mr Williams?” she asked. “It’s heavier now. I’ve never had a white Christmas – this is so exciting!”

  He finished buttoning his coat, and she slipped her arm into his. He locked the door, and they were soon on their way.

  “I did enjoy our walk into the woods yesterday,” she said. “I haven’t had a chance to do anything with those bits and pieces yet, but I will.”

  “Miss Harken,” he said gently, pulling the paper bag out of his pocket. “I have a small…gift for you.”

  She suddenly stopped and turned to face him. “A gift for me? You didn’t have to do that.” She looked embarrassed at the mere thought.

  He handed over the package. “It’s not much, but I think you’ll like it.”

  She opened it, then looked down inside the bag. “You didn’t? Oh my gosh, Mr Williams, I don’t know what to say.” Her eyes were full of unshed tears, and one escaped.

  He lifted his hand to her cheek, and wiped it away with his gloved hand. It seemed like such a personal thing to do, and he suddenly pulled back.

  “You are far too kind, Mr Williams,” she said, staring at her gift. “I’ll repay you somehow.”

  “No payment needed,” he said. “And none will be accepted. You’ve done so much for me, and I…I have done nothing but cause you distress.”

  She didn’t disagree.

  He hooked his arm back through hers, and they continued on their original mission – luncheon at the Grogan’s.

  He thoroughly enjoyed his little sojourns with Melody on the rare occasion they occurred.

  It was obvious they wouldn’t be going off into the woods any time soon, not with the heavy snowfalls they were now experiencing.

  It had become very clear Christmas was nudging closer and closer.

  A while back, he thought he might be married for Christmas. It would have been nice. Waking up on Christmas morning, with his wife by his side.

  Decorating their tree together, eating a roast lunch.

  Despite those plans going awry, it was a joy to get to know Melody. She was friendly, helpful, full of life, and a great cook. He’d come to really like her.

  No, that wasn’t true, he’d come to really care for her. Even in the short time they’d known each other.

  “Did you hear me, Mr Williams?” Mrs Grogan’s voice came crashing through his thoughts.

  Melody was grinning, and so was Mr Grogan. “I’m so sorry, Mrs Grogan, I was a thousand miles away.”

  She put down her spoon and wiped her mouth with a napkin. “I said that was so kind of you. To purchase those lovely ribbons for Miss Harken.”

  He felt the heat creep up his neck and face. “It was the least I could do to repay her,” he said, glancing at Mrs Grogan. “I…I’m very thankful to you all for what you’ve done for me. I feel like a different person.” He looked down into his near empty soup bowl.

  Melody mistook his actions. He was trying to hide his emotions, she assumed he was still hungry.

  Mrs Grogan reached out and patted his hand. “You’re a good man, Mr Williams. It’s not hard to want to help you.”

  Melody placed the refilled bowl in front of him. “It’s true,” she said quietly. “Look what you did for me – they must have cost a lot, but you bought them for me anyway.”

  “I was being selfish,” he said flippantly. “I want to see what you make.”

  Melody stared at him from across the table. “I don’t believe that. Just accept that we believe you to be kind, and don’t make it out to be something else.”

  He nodded. She was right, but it felt wrong to say so.

  “We’ll have to start decorating the house soon. What about the Post Office, Mr Williams?” Mrs Grogan stared at him.

  “What about the Post Office?”

  Mrs Grogan shuffled in her chair. “May we decorate the Post Office for Christmas?”

  “I’ve never done it before.” He scratched his head. Why was it suddenly an issue?

  “That’s settled then. Miss Harken and I will come over in two days and begin decorating.”

  Melody grinned at him. They both knew he wouldn’t win this battle, so he just gave in.

  “Miss Harken,” Sheriff Doyle said,
standing on the Grogan’s doorstep. “Would you mind accompanying me to the Sheriff’s Office.

  Mrs Grogan looked over her shoulder. “What’s this about Sheriff? Did you catch that horrid Mr Johnston?”

  “We may have, Mrs Grogan, but I need Miss Harken’s assistance.”

  They followed the Sheriff to his office, and the two women sat opposite him. From across the desk he shuffled some papers about.

  “I know you’ve given us a description before, Miss Harken,” he said gently. “But can you describe this man again?”

  Melody winced. She’d rather forget the whole incident. But she had to do whatever it took to catch him in case he duped some other poor unsuspecting woman. “He was about six foot tall, black hair, and beady brown eyes.”

  The Sheriff smiled. He opened a folder on his desk, then held up a poster. “Would this be the man?”

  Melody gasped. “You got him? You got the two-faced cad? I hope you lock him up for the rest of his life.”

  She was shaking, and Mrs Grogan put her arms around the younger woman. “Don’t upset yourself, Miss Harken.” She turned to Sheriff Doyle. “Did you get him? I certainly hope he’s locked up in jail now!”

  The Sheriff smiled again. “Yes, he is locked up – for now at least. There will be a trial of course, but I needed your confirmation this was the man.” He put the wanted poster back into the folder. “You were not his only victim, Miss Harken, but he won’t be doing it again for a very long time. There are at least another ten women this man stole from.”

  She sighed. “Thank goodness you found him.”

  “Unfortunately, we weren’t able to recover any of the money, but at least he’s locked up now.”

  She stood and stared at Sheriff Doyle. “Thank you so much,” she said. “You have no idea how happy this makes me.”

  The two women headed back home. Melody would sleep better tonight.

  The two women shuffled around the Post Office as he worked.

  It was distracting to say the least. They’d made colorful paper chains and hung them about the room. Next they’d be wanting to decorate his house.