Coveting Love (Jessica Crawford) (45 page)

Most of the people in the room had known her a lifetime. They had laughed with her and wept with her, supporting her through many trials and tribulations in her life. They showered her with affection, inquired after her health, and invited her to teas they knew she had no intention of attending. They were her friends.

Her health had been failing for some time now. Her eyesight had diminished to almost blindness, yet she knew and remembered every face in the room. And of course, now Brandon’s new lady was here. She hoped she would give her some grandchildren, before she was too blind to see them.

Brandon escorted her to the head of the table, and then took his place at the other end. Matthew sat on one side of her, and Jessica on the other. Someday, she would abdicate her position as host to her. She wished Jeffrey could be here as well, but she knew it was best that he wasn’t.

She knew the cooks had spent days preparing for this meal. She smiled fondly at the memory of her bustling around the kitchen for so many years, supervising the preparations. It occurred to her now that she didn’t know who had assumed that task. She would have to remember to ask Brandon.

As she took her place at the head of the table, all the guests rose. And when she sat in her seat, they followed suit. A prayer of thanksgiving was said, and then wine was poured.

In keeping with tradition, a toast was made before the first course was served. Raising her glass high, Virginia signaled for others to do the same.

She began the toast, “My dear family and friends, once again we are gathered on this joyous occasion to give thanks for our profitable year, and to the good Lord for seeing us all through another long year.” This brought a rousing round of applause from the older generation scattered around the table, and giggles from the younger.

“
We have another reason to be thankful this year.” She looked to Jessica, and then back at her guests. “It appears that my son, Brandon has finally found someone who will put up with him.” They all laughed. “I know most of you have already met her, but I would like to formally introduce you to my future daughter-in-law. Please join me in welcoming Miss Jessica Crawford to our table, and into our lives.”

The room sounded like a rehearsal for a musical symphony as glasses clinked against each other and a roar of congratulations erupted. Brandon smiled at Jessica, who returned his smile. To anyone who happened to be closely watching, there was the faintest hint of apprehension in her smile. Virginia was watching.

“
I hope this coming year will be as joyous as this one past,” she continued, “and that we all remain as healthy and happy as we are today. I would also like to add a note of prayer for my youngest son, Jeffrey. I hope that his latest adventure, wherever he may be, is filling him with adventure and knowledge that we will be fortunate to have him share with us upon his return. May he stay safe, and may God bring him home to us next year.”

Jessica glanced at Brandon, but could not read his expression. She also noticed that the majority of the people seated at the table had cast their eyes downward at the mention of Jeffrey’s name.

The sipping of her wine signaled an end to the toast and a beginning of the meal. Talking resumed, conversation now kept light. Brandon seemed somewhat somber, but otherwise unaffected by the mention of his brother.

“
I daresay, dear, one day soon, you will be taking my place as hostess of this table. I hope you are adept at toasting.”

Jessica started to protest, but Brandon stopped her. His glance told her that his mother knew she would not be in this world much longer, and it was important to her to leave things in capable hands.

“
I just hope I can live up to the expectations of the job. I will certainly do my best.”

Virginia laughed lightheartedly. “Oh, I’m sure you’ll be just fine. As a matter of fact, you’ll probably do much better than I,” she said.

“
It’s a big responsibility. I don’t mind admitting I’m overwhelmed by the prospect.”

“
It will come to you. My best advice is, don’t take it too seriously; take your time and enjoy the job.”

She finished her meal and rose from the table, just as the staff began serving dessert. “I’d better skip dessert; I’m trying to maintain my girly figure.”

Jessica laughed with genuine delight. She revered this woman’s charm, grace, and beauty.

“
Thank you all for coming today. I’m sure you’ll understand if I don’t stay for the dancing.”

Brandon rose abruptly from his seat and took his mother’s arm. The rest of the guests rose out of respect as mother and son made their way to the door. She turned one last time and waved good night.

“
Jessica, I hope you will come and see me before I settle in for the night.”

“
Of course, I’ll come up in just a little while.”

She waved again and was gone. Jessica turned to the guests who were all staring at her. She was trying to figure out what they all wanted. Then she realized they were expecting her to pick up where Virginia had left off. She smiled politely, sat in her seat, picked up her fork, and began eating her dessert. They all did likewise, and Jessica fidgeted nervously. She looked at Matthew, who smiled, nodding encouragement. He leaned across the table and squeezed her hand.

“
You’re going to be great.”

They heard the music start in the ballroom. Matthew stood and offered his arm to Jessica.

“
Shall we dance?”

“
I always wanted someone to say that to me,” she said, laughing.

“
It’s tradition for the hostess to start the dance.”

“
Then I don’t have a choice. Lead the way please.”

He escorted her to the ballroom, just as Brandon was descending the stairs. “Mother’s ready to see you now,” he informed Jessica.

“
Oh, all right.” She turned to Matthew. “I guess you’ll have to find someone else to start the dancing. I’ll take a rain check, though.”

He beamed. “I’ll hold you to it.”

She knocked softly on the door and waited for an invitation to enter. She found her sitting up in her bed with one soft lamp glowing beside her. She was running her hands over a framed photograph.

“
Brandon said you were ready to see me.”

“
Yes, of course. Please come in.”

“
He was a handsome man,” Jessica said, pointing at the photo she held in her hands.

She nodded and Jessica swore she saw the faintest hint of a tear in the corner of her eye.

“
I loved him very much. I’m lost without him.”

An oversized chair stood beside her bed, which, apparently, someone had placed for the sole purpose of seating visitors. Jessica eased herself into it.

“
You know, I think it’s his death that has allowed my health to deteriorate so rapidly. I’m dying of a broken heart.” She sighed. “This is the price you pay for having children late in life. We were having so much fun; we didn’t have time for children. Then Brandon came along. I was well into my forties by then, but the instant they laid him in my arms, I wanted another. I never guessed how joyful motherhood could be. I hope you don’t make the same mistake.”

“
Brandon and I both agree we want to start a family right away.”

“
That’s good. I approve. Are you having a wonderful visit?”

Jessica brightened. “Yes, I am. Thank you so much for inviting me. Your home is beautiful, and dinner was marvelous.”

“
It is the highlight of my year. I do so wish Jeffrey could have been here.” She noticed Jessica blush and saw her cast her eyes downward. “Have you met Jeffrey yet? I never know what’s going on with those boys, especially Jeffrey. He travels so much; he’s hardly ever home.”

“
I have met him, but only briefly,” she lied. “Last winter, when Brandon and I first met, I was in somewhat of a bind regarding a work project. He helped me out by loaning me the use of your home in California; it really suited my needs. Jeffrey was there.”

“
I see. And what did you think of my youngest son?”

“
Well, he’s quite a charmer, and quite full of himself,” she blurted out, and then slapped her hand over her mouth. “I’m so sorry. I can’t believe that just popped out like that.”

Virginia laughed loudly and patted Jessica’s hand. “That’s quite all right, dear,” she said, bringing her laughter under control. “He is rather arrogant, and quite spoiled. I must admit.”

Jessica took a deep breath. “He doesn’t get along well with Brandon.”

“
He doesn’t get along well with anyone,” she corrected.

“
Enough about my boys, though. Tell me about your mother. I hear she is a jewel. I do so wish you had invited her to spend the holiday with us.”

“
Brandon did invite her, but I’m afraid she had to decline. She and her new husband flew out to California to spend the holiday with his son. He and his wife have a new baby, so they are fawning over her.”

“
How special for them. Is it hard being separated from your mother?”

“
A little,” she confessed. “It’s the first holiday we’ve spent apart. I think I’m okay with it, though. This was definitely an experience. Mother and I usually spend a quiet day together. Sometimes the pastor of her church comes over, and sometimes he will dine with another member of the congregation. I think he holds out for the best pie.” They both giggled.

“
Do you have any siblings?”

She shook her head. A look of sadness crossed her face, hindering her smile. “My father left when I was a little girl. Mother never remarried until this year.”

“
I’m sorry to hear that.” Jessica only nodded. “Well,” Virginia said, trying to lighten the mood, “you’ll have to have lots of children to make up for it.”

“
I’m sure Mother would love that.”

“
Brandon tells me you’re a photographer.”

“
I am,” she said with pride. “A fashion photographer for a magazine, but after we’re married I’m going to start my own business photographing people’s homes and families.”

“
Well then, let me be your first customer. We haven’t had a family portrait done in quite some time.”

“
Okay then; a family portrait is on the agenda.”

“
You must include yourself in it.”

“
That can work; just leave it up to me.” She suddenly noted fatigue on Virginia’s face and fell silent.

“
Well dear, it’s been lovely chatting with you, but I am quite tired now, and you had better get down and enjoy some of that dancing, before the musicians wear themselves out.”

Jessica rose and kissed her on the cheek. “I’ve really enjoyed our talk. May I come back tomorrow?”

“
I hope you do.”

She left the room, pulling the door shut behind her. She hurried down the stairs, looking for Brandon. She spotted him with Matthew standing in the corner of the room, engaged in what appeared to be an intense argument. Matthew looked defensive. She wondered about the cause of the argument. Instead of going to find out, she headed in the opposite direction, away from the feuding brothers.

The dancing was in full swing, and immediately someone whisked her onto the dance floor. She swung quickly around to see who her abductor was, and smiled admiringly into the face of Brandon’s most important client.

“
Why, Mr. Johnson, you startled me!” she exclaimed.

“
I am sorry, pretty lady, but I thought I’d better take advantage of you being alone, before someone snatches you away.”

“
I‘m flattered. However, I would have gladly shared a dance with you if you had just asked. The night is young, you know, and I am sure there will be many dances this evening.”

“
Yes, but not too many when your future husband is out of the room. He’s quite protective of you, if you haven’t noticed.”

“
I’m afraid I have,” she admitted, frowning. She had thought, or rather hoped, he was only this way with Jeffrey, but after witnessing the scene between Matthew and him, she was beginning to wonder.

The dance ended. Mr. Johnson bowed to her and swept gracefully away, leaving her standing alone again. She swept the room with her eyes, but she was unable to see any sign of Brandon. She sighed with relief when she spied Matthew in the far corner, talking with Mrs. Waverly. She hurried to him.

“
Matthew,” she said, interrupting the conversation, “I can’t find Brandon. Do you know what happened to him?”

Mrs. Waverly gave Jessica a reproachful glare and scampered away to her next victim. Matthew laughed lightly at her display of temper. “Mrs. Waverly is a widow and is looking for a new husband. I’m afraid you’ve spoiled her flirtation with me.”

“
Oh, dear,” Jessica apologized, hiding a snicker behind her hand. She waved in her direction, a slight shrug to her shoulder. “Shall I go and fetch her back?”

“
Please don’t; I can do without those kinds of favors.”

She cast her eyes away from him. “Matthew, I saw you and Brandon arguing in the hall. I haven’t seen him since. I’m worried about him.”

He put his arm around her shoulder and led her toward the front door. Before she knew it, they were standing on the front porch. He turned toward her, looking seriously into her face.

“
Jess, Brandon is a wonderful man. He has the capacity to love to no end. He’s honest, hardworking, and dependable. But he has a problem with jealousy. If the two of you can work past that, then you will have a wonderful life together. Brandon and I were arguing over you. He wanted to make it clear that I was to stay away from you. It took awhile, but I managed to convince him I was not after you.”