Constance: Bride of Florida (American Mail-Order Bride 27) (12 page)

Chapter 16

Constance walked beside him, feeling the warmth of his body and the chill of his words. He wasn’t sure of what he was getting himself into. Of that, she was aware. For herself, she wasn’t sure what she was getting either, but what she was certain of was that her heart was beating a steady
yes
.

In all her life, her mind and heart had never been in such disagreement. Yet, she chose to believe her heart. It would be all right. Things would work out. Drake Ferris would come to love her. She knew it. Felt it in her heart.

Her mind was another matter. What on earth was his family going to think when they told them that they barely knew one another. He’d advertised for her in a paper, and she, being desperate, had answered. No, it made no sense whatsoever.

The door opened and that girl, Kimberly, opened it. Her gaze skirted to Constance and then back to Drake. “Dinner is almost ready. Your mother had me make an extra special dinner with two extra plates. I guess that’s for Tess and.” She gestured toward her.

“My name is Constance Penny.” She decided to be direct. Kimberly looked like she could be a problem and still had designs on Drake.

“Well, it’s ready. The family is in the parlor.” Kimberly took her coat in a brusque manner, but when she took Drake’s her hand lingered on his.

Constance felt the mousey part of her want to shrink back. Instead, she held her head high and stared at Drake.

He kept his attention on her and led her to the parlor.

Constance waited for him to seat her. He chose the small settee big enough for only the both of them. He surprised her with his choice. She sat, but he remained standing.

“Father, Mother.” He turned to face Edwin. “Edwin. I’d like to introduce you to the woman I am soon to marry. Miss Constance Penny.”

She kept a close watch on his parents. His father didn’t bat an eye. Drake said he already knew, and in fact, had his eyes on his wife. Drake’s mother smiled at her. A real smile that meant welcome.

His mother rose and walked to her. “I am so pleased to meet you.”

Constance stood and shook her hand. “Likewise, Mrs. Ferris.”

“Now, none of that. You can call me Martha. Or Mom. I so wanted a daughter but long ago had to settle on the idea of my sons giving me my daughters. You are the first, and I couldn’t be more pleased.” She hugged her in a warm embrace.

Constance felt like crying. It had been so long since she had anyone who truly wanted her. Through misty eyes, she nodded. “I thank you for your kindness. I would love to call you, Mom.”

“Well, that’s settled. Drake, where is Edgar? That boy is always late. I hope Tess can straighten him out.” Martha turned to her and winked. “After all, it is the first duty of every wife to make up for the weaknesses of her man.” She went back to her husband, sat, and patted his hand. “Isn’t that right dear.”

Mr. Ferris kissed the top of her head. “Most assuredly. And I fear you had the hardest job of all.”

Constance felt relief when Drake sat next to her.

She could feel his awkwardness. His pulling away from her as if to touch her was trouble. She grinned to herself. Well, Drake Ferris, you just wait. You have no idea what you have bargained for. In time, you won’t want to go out to sea.

The door banged open and she heard Edgar and Tess laughing. They burst into the room all smiles and fresh from the brisk air outside.

Constance wanted to be like that with Drake. All smiles and full of life. She darted a gaze at him and her heart sunk a little. His eyes were dark with that brooding look he wore.

Mr. Ferris rose. “Let’s go into the dining room. I know Kimberly has prepared a wonderful roast for us.” He escorted his wife into the room.

Constance noted how attentive he was to her. Would Drake ever treat her in such a fashion? Edgar treated Tess as if she were his own. Drake?

He stood and gestured for her to follow the others. At the table, he did pull her chair out for her and seated her next to his mother. Then he sat next to her. So quiet. Even with his family, he seemed to be apart from them.

Mr. Ferris prayed and then the meal was passed around.

Mrs. Ferris smiled at her. “Tell us something about yourself, Constance.”

Constance knew she was blushing. She always did when asked to be the center of attention. She took a breath and prayed the mouse was truly gone and she wouldn’t squeak. She focused on Captain Gordon’s words when he told her she was a treasure. Now, she hoped so.

“My family came from England. I was five. My mother died soon after and my father died when I was fourteen. I worked in a factory until just recently.” She stopped. Not sure if she should go on or not.

After an awkward silence, Drake set down his fork. “I sent an advertisement for a bride. A mail-order bride. Constance answered the ad, and I sent for her.”

That was all he said. She sat still with her eyes on her meat. So much meat. She’d never seen that much in all her years growing up. She waited. Waited for the rejection that was sure to come.

“I’d say both of you chose wisely.”

She looked at Mr. Ferris, surprised that he, of all people, would welcome the news.

“Thank you, sir.”

He smiled. “If you are calling my wife, Mom, I think you better call me, Dad.”

“Thank you, Dad.”

Mrs. Ferris dabbed her eyes. “You poor dear. I hope this family can make up for the one you lost.”

Hot tears flowed down her cheeks. Constance dabbed at them with her napkin. “Thank you, you are so kind to me.”

Drake sat still, unmoving.

Mrs. Ferris hugged her. “There, there. Now, tell us when the wedding is?”

Constance darted a look at Drake.

“We haven’t decided on the date. Soon, though.”

Mrs. Ferris looked pleadingly at her son. “Will you consider having it here?”

Drake glanced at her.

Constance met his eyes and nodded.

“Yes, we’ll have it here.”

Constance smiled. “I would be honored.”

The meal was like a dream to her. Family. Belonging. It was all she could have ever dreamed of. She savored every bite of food and conversation. All seemed happy.

Except Drake.

Drake felt the walls closing in on him. Everyone was having a great time. Constance fit in with his family in a way he never had. Was it because of the twin? Was the loss of Evan Jr., so long ago dead, coming between him and his family?

He watched Constance and got some satisfaction at the joy on her face. If nothing else, his family made her happy. He was glad for that. He didn’t want her to suffer loneliness.

Finally, dinner was over.

Mother stole Constance away while Father went to the parlor to smoke his cigars. He motioned for Drake and his brothers to follow.

“Shut the door, Edgar. I don’t want the women to hear this.”

Drake looked up at his father. Now, what? Was he going to say how he really felt about the mail-order bride business?

Father sat and opened the paper. “There are problems coming, boys. History teaches that. I have been thinking that we should diversify our holdings. Edwin, I have money for you to go into the lumber business. You’re smart with figures and should do well.

I know Edgar plans to go to Jacksonville to work with his future father-in-law.

Drake stared at his father noting the absence of his name.

“Drake, I know you love the sea, and I promised to give you your inheritance once you married. The sponge industry is viable. Requires boats. Would you be interested?

Drake felt a warmth in that his father had at least acknowledged his love for the sea. He took the paper. “Thank you, Father. I have some plans already, but I can consider it.”

His father smiled at him. “I know you do, son. Just letting you know what I see. If things get tight, I feel it best for the family to be in different industries.”

“Maybe, thanks for the tip.” Drake folded the paper. “I’ll keep it in mind.”

Father winked at him. “You do that. You have more than yourself to think about now. She’s a lovely girl.”

“I think so, too. I better go. It’s getting late.” Drake rose and went to find Constance. He didn’t want to be reminded that he was going to be responsible for her.

He knew that.

“Mother, I need to walk Constance home. It’s getting colder out.”

Mother scrunched her lips. “Drake, we were having a delightful conversation. But if you must go, promise to bring her by tomorrow so we can continue to get to know one another.”

“Yes, Mother.” He kissed her and then looked at Constance. “Ready?”

She nodded.

Outside, he breathed in the fresh air. Clean and open. Free. That’s what he wanted. He stared at the woman walking beside him. How could he get married and remain free? Then again, his marriage would reward him with his inheritance and ability to be free.

“I like your family, Drake.”

Startled that she’d spoken, he nodded. “They were charmed by you. I’m happy for you.”

“I won’t tie you down. You don’t have to fear me.”

Anger rose inside him. He didn’t fear her. He didn’t fear anything. Except having his freedom and dreams shattered.

Chapter 17

Constance woke to a new morning with the promise of a new life. The past few days had vanished in a blur of activity as preparations were made for their wedding. She adored Drake’s parents, and his brothers proved to be fun and kind men.

She hugged her pillow to her chest and thought back to how far she’d come. She had a family to belong to. People who cared for and loved her. Drake, well, he remained as moody as ever, but she did see brief moments of caring.

Yesterday, she’d glanced and saw him looking at her with a look of endearment bordering on love. He might resist his feelings for her, but she was convinced they were there. What is it Captain Gordon had said. “She’s named the
Journeys end
after a sentence in one of Shakespeare’s plays. ‘Journeys end in lovers meeting.’”

She’d met her love at the end of her sea journey. Drake still talked of buying that ship and sailing away. Would he return?

“Oh, Drake. Come back to me, or better yet, don’t leave me.”

She turned to stare out the window. The sun shone bright and promising. Today they’d be married. She’d already vowed to not hold him against his will. If Drake wanted to leave her, she’d not stop him.

Her heart thumped wildly in her chest. The very idea of marriage excited and scared her. She’d never been with a man. Never even been kissed by one before.

“You’re a jewel and a treasure, Constance Penny.” She reminded herself what the old captain and Stubby had told her. She needed to remember that today. Drake was getting a woman worthy of him. He would learn to see that. To see her as someone to value and love.

A light rap on her door stopped her mind from wandering.

“Yes?”

“Constance, it’s Alice. I’ve brought you a light breakfast.”

After grabbing her robe, Constance opened the door. “Oh, you didn’t have to.”

“My pleasure, darling.” She set the tray on the dresser. “Now, get back in bed and I’ll serve you.”

Feeling like a princess, Constance darted back to her bed, fluffed the pillows, and sat.

Alice set the tray in her lap. “I want this to be a special day for you, dear. I could hardly sleep last night for remembering my own wedding day. Ah, my man. He was so handsome. And the love shone out of his eyes and warmed my heart.”

Constance squeezed Alice’s hand. “Thank you.” She wanted to go on but questioned if she’d see love in Drake’s eyes.

As if reading her mind, Alice perched on the side of her bed. “I’ve known Drake since he was a little boy. He’s a good man, Constance. Love him unconditionally, and I think you’ll see him become the man of your dreams. He needs you.”

She nibbled on a piece of toast and stopped. “I don’t picture him needing anyone or anything.”

“Ah, you’re mistaken. Drake may not have known the real reason that he put the ad for a mail-order bride in that paper. But he did it. And he accepted you. Be patient with him and trust that the Lord has His reasons and ways. Love Drake.”

Constance nodded. “I think I already do.”

“Good. Now, finish your breakfast and rest. You only have a few more hours until the wedding.” Alice left the room and gently closed the door.

“Love him unconditionally. How was she to do that? Let him leave her without a word of protest? Is that what Alice had done with her husband? And yet, she had lost him to the sea.”

At times, when she watched Drake, she saw him look at the water. A longing would come over him. A sorrowful loneliness. Did he realize that? She could feel his deep loneliness and not belonging. Even with his family, he sat apart from them and held them at arm’s length. Would he also keep her at a distance?

She walked to the window and sat at the little desk. Bowing her head, she prayed that God would give her the patience and love to break through the wall Drake had built around his heart. Then she thanked God for making her part of his family.

Her dreams had already come true. She belonged. She was content with that alone but prayed he would love her.

###

Drake made sure the cottage on the beach was ready. He’d rented it for a week. In that time, he’d let Constance find a home she liked and buy it. Walking back to his house, he thought how he should be nervous. But for some reason, he wasn’t.

Constance was an easy person to know and like. They’d get along fine. His family adored her, and the pleased look on her face told him they were a good match. At least his family was for her.

She understood the terms. Father promised he had the money ready for him, but Drake had yet to see the old captain of
The Sea Wind
. He’d stay a respectable time for Constance, but then he was going to sea.

He checked his watch. He had just enough time to get home and change. Walking slowly, he hoped to avoid any last minute lectures from his parents. They were sure to be angry with him if they knew he planned on leaving Constance soon after the marriage. In his mind, he promised he’d come back from time to time.

She needed to understand that was the life of the captain of a ship.

He took the steps to his house two at a time and rushed to his room. Down below, he heard the organ play the wedding music. He hurriedly dressed and was about done when his door flew open and Edwin and Edgar rushed in.

“Drake, we thought you’d sailed away. Are you ready?” Edgar slapped him on the shoulder.

“I’m a man of my word.” Drake straightened his tie.

Edwin laughed. “That you are, Drake. Let’s get downstairs before Mother comes up here and gives you a lashing.”

“Thanks for being my best man, Edwin. Sorry, I can’t have two, Edgar.”

“Quite all right, since I’ll be walking down the aisle to my own bride in a few months.”

With his brothers behind him, Drake exited his room and made for the parlor. Mother had it decorated with some kind of white flowers. Father stood next to her on the front row. On the other side, Alice McCreedy smiled at him.

He took his place before the preacher and waited.

The music changed.

Drake looked down the row of seats just as Tess turned the corner and gracefully walked up the aisle. Her eyes were on Edgar, her smile for him only.

After a few minutes, the few guests and family rose, and the music changed to the wedding march.

Constance came around the corner. Her dress was flowing, lacy and white. It set off her pale red hair.

Drake let his eyes rest on Constance.

Her gaze took him in. Light shone from her eyes as if from heaven.

His heart raced. She was coming to him. To be his. What did he have to give her?

Then she was at his side.

The pastor told them to face one another.

He looked at her, to her, and something clicked in his soul.