Romance: Mail Order Bride "The Ideal Bride" Clean Christian Western Historical Romance (Western Mail Order Bride Short Shorties Series) (157 page)

Chapter Seven

The following morning Jenny opened her eyes to find Nell standing over her. It meant that she wasn’t having a nightmare and that she was truly being forced to leave Gavin.

“Most of your things are packed and you can leave the wedding ring with me. I’ve arranged for a coach to take you directly into Houston to the home I was telling you about.” Nell ripped off Jenny’s light blanket and tossed it on the floor. “You shouldn’t be surprised that things didn’t work out as planned. You came here as a mail order bride with the intention of swindling my nephew.”

“I planned nothing of the sort, Nell, and I’m keeping the ring that Gavin gave me.” Jenny brushed away her tears.

“The ride to Houston will take most of the day, which will leave plenty of time for tears. Gavin and Cal went to the back forty and they won’t be back this way until sundown,” Nell said as she stuffed Jenny’s blanket and bed linens in a potato sack to be used for rags.

“You must be aware that Gavin will come looking for me. He told me that you don’t believe in true love but he does and what we have is stronger than you.”

“I’ll take care of Gavin and now that Mary’s back, he’ll have a shoulder to cry on. He’ll find a note detailing that you’ve gone back to Boston because life on this filthy ranch isn’t for you.”

“That won’t work because Gavin knows that I love Texas and look forward to the opportunities ahead.”

“Silly girl. Your carriage will be here any moment. I’ll leave you to get dressed.”

Jenny was pushed into the waiting carriage and the driver was given instructions. She looked out at the long amber grass and knew that somewhere on the range was Gavin. She thought that he was likely thinking of her and the baby. How wonderful it would be to raise a child in the ways of the ranch as his father had taught him. The prospect of giving up her baby made Jenny cringe. She was not going to let evil win and someday she would find her way back to the ranch and Gavin Hennessey. The carriage pulled over to water the horses, which gave Jenny a chance to stretch her legs. She saw the man looking at her and Jenny knew she could use him to her advantage. He had probably been given strict instructions from Nell but she had an allure that Nell didn’t have.

“It’s hot under the mid-day sun. I won’t be insulted if you take off your hat and coat.” Jenny dipped her handkerchief in the well water and dabbed her chest. She could feel his eyes upon her and knew he was softening. “I don’t want to be dropped off at the place where Mrs. Hennessey directed you. I do hope that won’t be a problem.”

“I was given specific instructions from Nell.”

Before Jenny left she’d grabbed a few cigars and a flask of whiskey. Caleb kept a stash that she came across by accident. She showed them to the man and his eyes widened.

“Please, sir.” Jenny blinked her violet eyes.

“What you’re offering will make the trip a lot more enjoyable. Just let me know, Ms. Jenny, and I’ll drop you where you want.”

“Splendid. I’ll let you know when we get close.” Jenny smiled. She had an idea as she looked out at the azure sky that seemed limitless. She wasn’t sure where she would stay but she certainly couldn’t carry around her trunk. She had a bauble or two that she could use to barter. She would offer the coachman something to do her one last favor. “Sir, I’ve arrived at my destination. When you make it back to Olean, I’d like you to pass this note to Gavin Hennessey without anyone else knowing. For your trouble, I can offer you this necklace. It isn’t made of a precious stone but you can still impress a lady with it.”

“I’ll do it but I won’t take your necklace, ma’am. A beautiful woman should keep such a thing. Give me the note and I’ll be sure to pass it to Mr. Hennessey.”

Jenny read the note before folding it and handing it to the coachman.

Dear Gavin,

I left to protect you and for no other reason. You gave me a sense of safety and happiness that I will always cherish.

Love,

Jenny

Jenny grabbed her one bag and walked into the nearest guesthouse to see how much a room would cost for the week. That would be enough time to figure out her next move. She found out the amount, which was shy of what she had. Karen, who was the guesthouse owner let Jenny put her bag in a room and come back later with the rest of the $10. She set out to sell the only thing that she had that was worth anything, which was her hair, her crowning glory.

“Hello, I asked Karen at the Sunnyvale guest house and she said a woman named Doreen would be able to help me.” Jenny said.

“That’s my wife, darling, and she helps out with a lot of things. What is it you need help with?”

“I want to sell my hair and I think Doreen uses it to make wigs for fancy women.”

“She does. It’s an odd profession but she sells what people are willing to buy. She’s happy to help girls like you who are unwilling to become saloon girls when they need money.”

The man called out his wife Doreen who led Jenny into the back and instructed her to sit on a stool. “My husband tells me that you’re down on your luck. Not many would sacrifice years of growing their hair. I don’t take pleasure in doing this, especially while you’re in such a delicate condition. I hope this helps you get by before the baby is born.”

“You can tell I’m pregnant?” Jenny was shocked.

“Yes. You’re a little thing but you’ve popped. Can you feel the critter swimming around in there?” Doreen said as she took out Jenny’s hairpins. Jenny’s jet-black hair cascaded down her shoulders to the bottom of her back.”

“I felt something today but I thought it was the result of bouncing along the gravel roads. I think it’s going to be a boy, or maybe a girl.”

Doreen laughed. “It’s gonna be one or the other. Close your eyes, Jenny, and I’ll be finished before you know it.”

The sound of her hair being cut was nerve-racking but Gavin and her baby were worth it. Jenny felt light as her hair fell away.

“I can’t say it’s pretty but with eyes like yours you could be shaved bald and still be beautiful. I have a collection of hats to choose from and yours is free. My husband Jack will pay you on the way out. Please send my regards to Karen. If you’re looking for help and know no one in town you are lucky to have found Karen.”

“Thanks for your kindness, Doreen. Do you have a mirror nearby?” Jenny asked and Doreen directed her. Her long beautiful hair was gone and all that was left were stubby locks. Jenny shook her head, placed a hat on her head and walked out confidently. She was resolved not to let Nell have the last word.

Chapter Eight

Jenny had been at the guesthouse for five weeks because a small barn in back needed tending and she agreed to do it. Karen was her guardian angel in many ways. In exchange, Jenny had a place to stay and a few dollars, which she was able to save. Her pregnant belly had grown, as had her hair. She was convinced that being pregnant caused her hair to grow quickly. Her theory had no proof but she was sure of it. News travels and she had heard of no tragedies in Olean, so she assumed Gavin was getting on without her and he probably gave another mail order bride a chance. Jenny thought of him every day but as the birth of her baby neared, she knew that he or she must be her priority. Jenny waddled down the stairs to find Karen making biscuits.

“Good morning. One of these days you’re going to have to teach me the secret to your flaky biscuits.” Jenny said as Karen offered her one warm from the oven.

“I have a new guest who also loves my biscuits. Have you met Mr. Morrow?”

“No I have not. I spend most of my day in the barn with the animals. The new chicks have hatched and the pregnant cow is fixing to give birth soon. The animals and I have a lot in common these days. What’s the deal with Mr. Morrow?”

“He’s very handsome and if you weren’t still stuck on Gavin, I’d introduce you with the hopes of making a match. His teeth are whiter than I’ve ever seen. He’s handy and willing to help when it comes to heavy lifting. Mr. Morrow had a sadness in his eyes when he first showed up that has seemed to disappear. He’s mysterious so I came out and asked what he was doing in Houston. He said he was searching for something very dear to him and he’s finally found it.”

“Good for Mr. Morrow. At least someone is content,” Jenny said.

“You seem more content than when you first arrived,” Karen commented.

“That’s true, and I’ll be happy when my child is born. My situation isn’t perfect but I’m learning to make the best of it.”

“That’s my girl. I don’t know what I would do without your help. Please take the bell with you and ring it if you feel the slightest twinge. I’ve never delivered a baby but I’m a quick learner and I’m all you’ve got.”

Jenny pushed open the door to the barn and the aroma of manure was a reminder of her time with Gavin. As she checked on the new chicks and started to collect eggs from the hens, Jenny felt an odd sensation. It was the same way she felt when Nell was spying on her in Olean. Jenny thought that someone from Boston must have found her in Texas. She had sent a letter to her parents and word must have got out. Jenny reached for the bell, which was beside her in a cloth bag, but before she could reach it, a firm grasp stopped her. It was a hand that she had seen before and thought she would never see again. Jenny was afraid to turn around because she couldn’t take the disappointment if she was wrong.

“Jenny, don’t be alarmed. It’s Gavin and I’ve dreamed of this day since you left the ranch. I’ve come to take you home where you belong.”

All Jenny could do was gasp as Gavin took her in his arms and kissed her as he rubbed her pregnant belly. Feeling his breath on her neck was something Jenny dreamed of every night. Jenny pulled back and looked into Gavin’s green eyes.

“This is surreal. How did you--?” Jenny asked but Gavin stopped her from talking further by covering her lips with his.

“It doesn’t matter how I found you, Jenny, but I did and I love you, Jenny Hennessey. I’m not letting you out of my sight again. I’ve been to every guest house and home in Houston and I had almost given up hope when I came upon this place. As soon as I walked in the front door I knew I had found you. The cut flowers in the parlor and the barn so neat and tidy are your hallmarks. When I smelled your lavender soap, I had to investigate further and I found you. My wife with the violet eyes and the pregnant belly which looks about to burst. Say you’ll come home to the ranch in Olean with me.”

“I love you too, Gavin, and you’re all I’ve thought about since the day I left. I was forced to leave because staying would have put you in danger. I’ve been building a life here in Houston for me and my baby. It’s not perfect but it’s a life that I can manage.”

“Did Nell have something to do with your leaving?” Gavin asked.

“She did, but if I didn’t leave, she was going to be sure that the men back in Boston knew where I was. I would do anything to keep you safe, Gavin.” Jenny tugged at her stubby ponytail.

“Geeze, don’t worry about your hair. You’re more beautiful than ever and you made some woman who bought a wig very happy.” Gavin chuckled. “I wish you had come to me before you took off in Mr. Anson’s carriage.”

“I meant for him to give you the note and not tell you where I landed.”

“He wasn’t going to leave you alone in Houston and when he told me that you weren’t going to the home for unwed mothers, my heart soared. I told Caleb and Nell that I was securing a spot in the next cattle auction and that I would be away for a few days. They’ll be shocked when I return with you. You are coming home with me, aren’t you?” Gavin asked.

“Hearing the word
home
come from your lips sounds magical but what’s to keep Nell from running her mouth. It will only send a newborn child and me back on the run. I refuse to put you in danger and you’d be better off with a woman like Mary Horning.”

“I don’t love Mary Horning and she doesn’t love me. To be honest, I spent some time with her in the past weeks and it was she who urged me to come find you. Her beau from Houston came looking for her and she’s very much in love with him. As for Nell, leave her to Caleb and me. Between the two of us we will convince her to back off. Wait until you see Caleb’s reaction when he hears what she’s done. He’ll threaten to leave her and that’ll scare her good.”

              “You leave me no option, but there is one thing I have to do before we leave.”

“Anything, Jenny, what do you have to do?” Gavin asked.

“Give birth. My water just broke and I don’t think this will wait.”

Chapter Nine

“There must be a doctor nearby.” Gavin started pacing and Jenny laughed as she retained her composure.

“There is a doctor on the other side of town but we have Karen and she’s willing to give it a try.” Jenny rang her bell as Gavin continued to panic.

Karen arrived and she was cool and collected. “I had planned on the baby’s arrival in a bed or perhaps on the couch but a barn will have do. Mr. Morrow, you have no business here so why don’t you get on your way.”

“My name is Gavin Hennessey and Jenny is my wife. Tell me what to do and I’ll do it because there’s nothing I won’t do for my wife and child.”

“Walk down the street to Jack’s Place and get Doreen. Tell her what’s happening and have her get as many as pillows and clean linens as possible.” Karen looked to Jenny. “Is that really Gavin?”

“Yup. Just in time, I’d say,” Jenny managed to say before she howled like a wolf.

Doreen came and having helped women give birth in the past took over and calmed everybody down. Jack tried to keep Gavin relaxed with whiskey but it wasn’t easy as the usually calm man was a wreck. Jenny’s howls subsided and Gavin worried when no one came for him until a smiling Karen walked into the room.

“Ready to see your wife and son, Gavin?” Karen said.

Gavin pushed past Karen and then Doreen.

“Aren’t you a beautiful sight? You and my son have made all my dreams come true. Might be odd but I’d say he looks just like me.”

Jenny laughed. “It’s too soon to tell because his head is misshapen at this point. I think Gavin Jr. is as perfect as any baby I’ve seen. Want to hold him?”

“I’m afraid I’ll drop him.”

“Don’t be silly. I want him to know the feeling of being in your arms because I know that it’s the best place to be. I didn’t know what safe felt like until the first time you wrapped your arms around me.”

Gavin reached down to pick up the baby. “Do you realize that we haven’t even slept together yet?”

“Yes and I’ve been dreaming about it for months. My mother always told me to be chaste, but I think this is taking it too far. After all, we’re a married couple.”

Gavin cradled his son in his arms and wept. “This is better than I imagined. Others have told me that holding one’s own child for the first time is powerful but words can’t describe what I’m feeling. When you walked into my life Jenny, you opened my eyes to a new kind of love. My parents had an indescribable connection and it’s as if their secret has been shared with me.”

“Careful, Gavin, you’re beginning to sound like a poet more so than a rancher with a mail order bride.”

“You didn’t come in the mail, Jenny. It’s as if you came on angel’s wings.”

“That’s even flowery for me but I’ll take it, Gavin. Can I have Gavin Jr. back now?” Jenny laughed.

“I can see now what our first fight will be about.”

“Let me guess: we’ll argue about who gets to hold Gavin Jr. I think we had better get working on a sibling so we won’t have to have that argument for long.”

Karen made up the bed in her deluxe guestroom where Gavin and Jenny spent their first nights together as a family. When Jenny was ready, they climbed in the wagon and headed back to Olean. Gavin rode slowly as he was overly cautious with his wife and son on board. Jenny sat in front next to her husband with their baby in her arms.

“What are we going to do about Nell?” Jenny asked.

“Nell could push us around before but now that we’re a strong family she’ll know better. I spoke with Cal before I left and he’s on our side. He said he’ll drop her on the side of the road if she doesn’t fall in line.”

Jenny laughed. “I think she’s all bark and no bite. I dare her to challenge this mama bear. Unlike her, I bite.”

“I love you, Mrs. Jenny Hennessey.”

Jenny smiled as the brilliant Texas sun made her violet eyes flicker. “I never tire of hearing my name. I love you, Gavin Hennessey.”

THE END

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