Daylight Comes (19 page)
There was a spring to his step and a twinkle in his eyes. Apparently things had gone well at his office. His predecessor had generously agreed that Moses could observe the practices and procedures of the state auditor’s office prior to taking office.
He wrapped Truth in a welcoming hug, and she shivered and yelped as he placed his icy cheek alongside her own. Pushing her hands against his broad chest, she backed away and scolded him.
Chuckling, Moses removed his coat and hung it in the hallway.
“Did you and Grace have a nice visit with Dovie?”
She motioned for him to follow her upstairs. “Dovie is now our housekeeper. Our
live-in
housekeeper.” She nibbled her lower lip as she awaited his reaction.
Moses stared at her for a moment, his eyebrows raised. “Is that a bad thing? I thought you planned to have her come and work for us if she was available.”
“It will be fine—at least I hope it will. I do worry about what will happen when I have to assign her duties or correct her work.”
“I doubt there will be problems. The two of you haven’t been around one another for several years. You’ll soon slip into a natural pattern that’s comfortable for both of you.”
He took her hands and pulled her close. “I believe I’ve warmed up enough for a proper welcome-home kiss.”
She placed her palm along his jaw. “I do believe you have.” She tilted her head and raised up on her toes. His lips covered hers with a long, ardent kiss, and several moments passed before he released her.
She gave him a half smile as she looked at him from beneath hooded eyelids. “There’s absolutely no doubt you’ve warmed up, Mr.
Wyman.”
He laughed and wagged his finger. “Careful or you’ll miss your supper, and that would be extremely difficult to explain to the new housekeeper.”
Truth giggled at the thought as she grabbed her husband by the hand and led him back down the stairs. “You certainly came home in a cheerful mood,” she said as they reached the landing.
“I’m
always
cheerful—just a bit more so today. I’ll tell you why at supper.”
Grace emerged from the kitchen and joined them. “Dovie says she wants to finish up on her own and serve the meal. I hope she’s able to find everything.”
“You two worry far too much. I believe she’s bright enough to come and ask for assistance whenever she needs it.”
The three of them walked into the dining room, with Grace on one side of Moses and Truth on the other. They chatted for several minutes, but soon they were all expectantly watching for the door between the kitchen and dining room to open. When Dovie didn’t appear after several minutes, Truth excused herself and hurried to the kitchen. She was stunned to find Dovie sitting near the worktable with the dishes and bowls of food piled high.
“Why are you sitting here, Dovie? The food is growing cold.”
“I never heard you ring the bell. Mrs. Johnson always rang a bell when it was time to bring in the food.”
Truth giggled. “Oh, Dovie. I don’t even own a bell.” Truth picked up a bowl in one hand and a platter in the other. “Let’s get this food on the table.” Hesitating for only a moment, she instructed Dovie to bring the remainder of the dishes.
While they filled their plates, Moses revealed he’d met a young lawyer earlier in the day—a fine black man who had begun a law practice in Topeka, a man Moses believed could become a friend. An idea struck her, and Truth stole a look across the table. This man sounded perfect for Grace! Or was he already married?
“We should invite him and his wife to supper next week,” Truth hedged.
“He’s not married,” Moses said, “but you’ll meet him at the swearing-in ceremonies. His name is John Rockley.”
Perfect!
If Grace developed a relationship with John Rockley, maybe she’d forget about Silas and decide to stay in Topeka rather than return to Nicodemus. Nothing would make Truth happier than to have her sister nearby, and she’d never considered Silas and Grace to be particularly well suited anyway.
“Do you think he’d like to attend the ceremonies with us?” Truth asked. “Perhaps he could act as Grace’s escort at the gala.”
She didn’t know who looked more surprised by the suggestion— her husband or Grace. Before either of them could reject her proposal, she hastily explained it would make for better seating arrangements.
She’d heard few people attended these functions unescorted. And those who did . . . well, Grace could end up seated beside some pretentious old man who would bore her to tears with tales of his past accomplishments. It would save her sister from myriad uncomfortable circumstances if she had a trustworthy escort.
“If Grace don’t want that fella, I’d be right pleased to meet him.”
All three of them turned their attention to Dovie, who had taken a seat at the far end of the dining room table. Truth couldn’t believe her eyes. Forevermore! What did Dovie think she was doing sitting at the table and entering into their conversation as though she were a guest? Apparently she viewed this new position differently than her employment with the Johnson family. Trying to avoid a reprimand, Truth merely shook her head and frowned. Dovie remained undeterred. She didn’t budge from the chair. Gaining Moses’s attention, Truth frowned and signaled toward Dovie with a slight dip of her head. Moses held up his water glass and Dovie promptly fetched the pitcher. When she drew near his side, Moses crooked his finger to beckon her closer. As Dovie leaned forward, Moses whispered into her ear.
After filling his glass, Dovie scampered from the room without a word. Truth mouthed a silent
thank-you
to her husband. She didn’t know what he’d said, but his words had been effective.
“Since I plan to marry Silas, do you believe it would be appropriate to have Mr. Rockley escort me to the gala?” Grace asked, staring at her plate. “I’m not certain what Silas would think.”
Truth sighed and raised her eyebrows. “It’s not as though Mr.
Rockley would be
courting
you, Grace. I’m only suggesting he act as your escort. You’d be with
us
the entire time.”
“What do you think, Moses? If Truth had attended a function with someone else, would you have been troubled by her actions?”
Moses laughed and reminded Grace that her sister had traveled to New York City without his complete approval and he’d still married her.
Grace took a sip of water. “What about Aunt Lilly? Won’t she be attending with us? If the two of us could sit together at the events, the seating wouldn’t be a problem.”
“Aunt Lilly isn’t attending. Moses was entitled to only one additional ticket for the event, and I wanted you to be there with me.”
Truth stabbed several green beans onto her fork.
“Truly?” She looked to Moses for affirmation, and when he nodded, she said, “I’m honored that I was the one selected to attend.
Thank you.”
“You are most welcome, Grace. And you may rest assured that we will respect your wishes regarding Mr. Rockley.” Moses gave Truth a pointed look. “Won’t we, my dear?”
Grace spoke before Truth could respond. “I don’t suppose having Mr. Rockley act as my escort would be improper. Silas and I aren’t married yet.”
Truth wanted to giggle with delight, but she forced herself to give only a solemn nod while she mentally considered details for the upcoming event. Fortunately she and Grace wore the same size dress.
Her blue-and-white silk dress, one she’d purchased during a trip to Boston with Moses, would be perfect for Grace. If Mr. Rockley and Grace agreed to see each other for future social engagements, her sister would have an entire wardrobe of suitable attire at her disposal since none of Truth’s gowns fit her increasing figure. And if Truth had her way, they
would
be seeing each other frequently.
T
ruth was filled with pride when Moses raised his right hand and took the oath of office on January 8. The first black official in the state! Although this whole move to Topeka still wasn’t sitting well with her, she felt her chest puff up a little as she beamed at her husband.
The swearing-in ceremony was followed by a reception to greet and honor the new officials and their wives and special guests. John Rockley joined Truth, Grace, and Moses in the east wing of the capital. Mr. Rockley had remained by Grace’s side throughout all the formalities, and Truth soon discovered what a powerful member of the community he was. He had already been involved in several well-publicized cases. He had acted as special counsel to the Republican Party on several occasions, and his presence was desired at all political functions. With his knowledge of protocol, he’d been able to answer all of Truth and Grace’s questions with ease.
They discovered there was little time between each of the events, but Truth suspected a woman may have been consulted regarding the actual schedule. Though there wouldn’t be time to tarry, they would have sufficient time to return home and change into their gowns for the supper and dance that would follow.
As the foursome prepared to depart, Moses pulled John aside. “Why don’t we all attend in one carriage? Could you come by the house at five-thirty?”
“Excellent idea. There are always far too many carriages at these events.” John gave Grace a slight bow. “I shall look forward to joining you for the evening.”
After they had piled into the carriage, Truth quizzed her sister. Though Grace occasionally appeared to object to the questions, Truth persisted; she must discover her sister’s thoughts if her plan was going to work. If only Grace were more open about her opinions . . .
Grace exhaled an audible sigh when they finally arrived home, and Moses grinned as he assisted her down from the carriage. “You must be pleased to be home, where you can avoid your sister’s probing questions—at least for a time.”
Truth playfully slapped at his arm. She was certain Mr. Rockley thought Grace attractive. He’d said as much to Moses. Now if she could only convince Grace to relax and enjoy the evening, her sister’s natural charm and intelligence would captivate Mr. Rockley even further. Coupled with the blue-and-white silk gown, how could he possibly resist?
After changing into her evening dress, Truth headed down to the parlor to await Mr. Rockley’s arrival. She could barely believe her eyes when she entered the parlor. Dovie was sitting on the settee entertaining Mr. Rockley as though she were the mistress of the house!
Truth hastened into the room and tapped the servant on her shoulder. “Would you please go upstairs and advise Grace we’re preparing to depart, Dovie?”
Dovie’s guilty expression showed that she was aware she’d overstepped her boundaries and was taking unacceptable liberties. Anger caused Truth’s cheeks to burn. After her earlier blunder at the supper table, why would Dovie behave in such a bold manner? She had to realize Truth would disapprove. Apparently the desire to find a prosperous husband was of greater import to Dovie than her job.
Truth sighed. Now there was little doubt Dovie’s employment was going to prove awkward. If she dismissed the girl after only a few days on the job and word trickled back to Nicodemus, folks would doubtless think Truth’s behavior rash and inappropriate. Perhaps she should have more carefully considered the possibility of such problems before hiring her old friend.
As Grace descended the steps, Truth noted John’s appreciative look. Obviously, Mr. Rockley found Grace quite enchanting—not that Truth was surprised. Her sister looked particularly lovely this evening.
As the foursome prepared to depart, Dovie reappeared in the hallway. Circling around Moses, she moved near John’s side. “It was truly a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Rockley. You have a fine time this evening.” Without a word to the rest of them, Dovie disappeared from the foyer as quickly as she’d entered.
Truth was rendered speechless by her friend’s flirtatious behavior. Dovie had even batted her lashes as she beamed up at John Rockley. She and Dovie must talk!
After they’d all climbed into the carriage, John leaned slightly forward in his seat. “Miss Tuttle mentioned the three of you ladies were friends back in Kentucky and came west at the same time.”
Truth nodded, wondering what else Dovie had disclosed about their past. Not that she was ashamed of her humble beginnings.
However, the fact that Dovie would discuss her employer’s personal history or business with a total stranger was even more disconcerting than her rude behavior. She and Moses must decide upon a plan of action; she would speak to him when they arrived home.
Though the trouble with Dovie had stolen her earlier excitement, Truth’s mood lightened as they entered the gaily decorated banquet hall. A bunting of golden yellow and navy blue hung from the speaker’s platform, and each of the dining tables was covered with a dark blue cloth. The pristine white dishes were rimmed in gold, and the delicate crystal water goblets shimmered in the candlelight, giving the entire room a formal yet festive appearance.
Each table held a placard bearing the name of the distinguished guest being honored. Truth’s pride resurfaced when she noted the signage centered on their table. The card was engraved with the words
Kansas State Auditor
in bold dark letters and her husband’s name in a beautiful script directly below. An engraved place card was situated by the water goblet at each setting.
Truth tugged at Moses’s arm. “Shall we peek at the cards and see who else will be sitting at our table?”
“No need.”
Truth spun around at the sound of her aunt’s voice. “Aunt Lilly!
How did you . . . What are you . . .”
Her aunt’s right hand rested on the arm of a distinguished-looking gentleman Truth had never before seen. However, Moses clapped him on the shoulder while he enthusiastically shook the stranger’s other hand. “Mr. Rockley, I’d like to introduce you to my wife, Truth, and her sister, Grace.”
Truth glanced back and forth between John and the stranger. The older gentleman smiled and nodded at John. “I’m John’s uncle— Charles Rockley. It’s a pleasure to meet you. And I believe you have all met my lovely guest for the evening.”
Truth noted that even Moses appeared taken aback by Lilly’s presence. She wondered how and when John and Charles Rockley had met her aunt. Lilly grinned like a Cheshire cat as she and the elder Mr. Rockley circled the table and then claimed the remaining two places.
John reached to assist Grace with her chair. “Your aunt insisted upon surprising the three of you. I was sworn to secrecy.”
After seating Truth, Moses eased into his chair. “Well, I’d say you succeeded. I didn’t even realize you’d met Truth’s aunt.”
Lilly squared her shoulders. “I’ve hired Mr. Rockley as my lawyer.
He handled the purchase of my business here in Topeka.” She tapped her folded fan on Moses’s arm. “Surely you realize I’m an astute businesswoman who wouldn’t enter into a contract without a lawyer’s advice.”
Truth stifled a guffaw. The entire family knew Lilly’s prowess as a businesswoman. Of all people, Lilly didn’t need a lawyer to point out any possible flaws in a real estate contract. In all probability, Lilly had sought Mr. Rockley’s counsel after learning he was an eligible man of distinction. Using her business contract as an effective tool, Lilly obviously planned to snare him into her web. Knowing Lilly’s history, Truth decided that if Mr. Rockley proved to be a man of considerable financial means, Lilly would be Mrs. Charles Rockley by winter’s end.
By the time dessert was served, Truth was convinced Lilly had set her cap for Mr. Rockley. Her coquettish behavior was obvious and embarrassing—at least in Truth’s opinion—though none of the others seemed to notice. In fact, Truth was pleased to observe that her sister appeared more interested in conversing with John than in observing Aunt Lilly’s flirtations.
Their tables had been cleared and the musicians had taken to the platform in preparation for the ball when Lilly tapped her fan on the table to get Grace’s attention. “Grace, I was surprised when John told me he was your escort this evening. Whatever will Silas think?”
Without waiting for Grace’s response, Lilly accepted Charles’s invitation to dance. Taking his arm, Lilly rose from the table and strolled to the dance floor. Glancing over her shoulder, she winked at Truth. To say Lilly was infuriating would be an understatement.
Grace shot a look of panic in Truth’s direction.
John raised an eyebrow. “May I assume that Silas is someone who lives in Nicodemus? Your fiancé, perhaps?”
“No!” Truth said before Grace could answer. “They’re not engaged, Mr. Rockley. Merely close friends. Silas and I are friends, also. Silas was employed at the boarding school Macia Boyle attended in New York City. When we learned he was anxious to begin life anew outside of the city and subsequently agreed to help us escape Macia’s boarding school, I told him he could come west with us.”
“Escape?” John asked.
Truth told him the whole story, and John seemed captivated.
When she’d finished the tale, she glanced at the dance floor. “The musicians will want to go home before we have even one dance.” She looked at her husband, knowing he’d get the hint.
Moses laughed and took his wife’s hand. “You two may as well join us, John. No need to sit at the table by yourselves.”
John stood and offered his hand to Grace.
“Besides,” Moses said over his shoulder to John, “I don’t want to be the only one stumbling over my feet.”
Truth followed her husband’s lead as the other couples swirled around them, pleased when John and Grace came into view. She wondered if her matchmaking efforts were destined for failure. Between Dovie’s unconcealed attraction to Mr. Rockley and Lilly’s reminder of Silas, she doubted whether Grace would be comfortable seeing the dashing young lawyer again. Still, they danced together with an ease that belied the fact they’d met only recently. Surely they were intended for each other.
Truth had already put Silas out of her mind. The young man had come to Kansas thinking he might marry
her
. His interest in Grace hadn’t taken seed until after Truth and Moses married. Even then, both Jarena and Truth had questioned Silas’s intent. Did he truly care for Grace or had he chosen her because she resembled Truth? Grace deserved a man who cared for her solely because of who she was, not because she looked like someone else.
Much to Truth’s frustration, Grace would say little regarding her feelings about the day of the swearing-in. On several occasions since the ball, Grace had confirmed her enjoyment of the various celebratory events, but the perfunctory responses were all Truth could get out of her. She would say nothing about her feelings toward John Rockley.
Truth concluded that Grace thought others would consider her disloyal to Silas. Although it seemed Silas need not worry. At least two times a week Truth saw a letter addressed to Silas on the table near the front door. Moses dutifully took each letter and posted it for Grace. No, Silas need not worry about Grace’s loyalty—at least not yet.
In the last week, Truth and Moses had taken Dovie aside and outlined the behavior they expected of their servant. Moses had at first said he thought Truth needed to handle the training and discipline of household servants, but after a bit of cajoling, Truth convinced him that she needed his moral support when dealing with her friend. After their discussion with Dovie, Moses said he’d felt unnecessary. But Truth knew that was not the case. It was his presence and not Truth’s words that had caused Dovie’s meek demeanor and quick acquiescence to the household rules. Thus far, Dovie had taken the admonitions to heart. However, she would soon be put to the test, for Truth had invited John Rockley to be their supper guest.
After Moses had agreed that a gathering any night the following week would suit, Truth had forwarded an invitation to Mr. Rockley. She now looked forward to his affirmative reply. And although Moses had suggested she also invite John’s uncle and Aunt Lilly, Truth quickly vetoed the idea. Aunt Lilly’s reminders of Silas weren’t the table conversation she desired at her dinner party. But she did invite Mr. and Mrs. Ditmore, a friendly middle-aged couple John had introduced them to at the inaugural party. Truth was well aware that without the addition of at least one or two guests, Grace would become suspicious and accuse Truth of interfering—or worse, matchmaking.
Moses came home a little before noon and entered the parlor still rubbing his hands together. “Even wearing thick gloves isn’t enough protection against this weather. I hope Dovie has prepared a good hot soup for our noonday meal.” He leaned down and kissed Truth’s cheek, but when he attempted to nuzzle her neck, she playfully pushed him away.
“You’ll not warm your cold face in my neck.” She laughed as she shook a warning finger in his face. When he continued to try, she laid her hands upon his chest. “I’ll tell Dovie not to serve dinner if you keep up your antics.”
Moses plopped down beside her looking like a recalcitrant child. “In that case, I suppose I had best behave.”
A short time later, Truth set aside her stitching and took Moses’s hand as they walked to the dining room. While Dovie hastened upstairs to fetch Grace, the two of them took their seats at the table.
Moses stood as Grace entered the dining room a short time later. After saying a quick prayer, he unfolded his napkin and placed it on his lap. “I nearly forgot. Your invitations have been accepted, so you best begin preparing your menu.”
“Menu for what?” Grace looked back and forth between her sister and brother-in-law.
“We’ve invited a few guests for supper on Friday night. Nothing elaborate—just supper and visiting. My condition will soon prevent entertaining until after the baby’s birth. I hoped to squeeze in one or two supper parties before then.” Truth snapped open her napkin and placed it on her lap.
Nodding, Grace spread a dollop of butter on a thick piece of crusty bread. “Who have you invited?”