Shameful Celia (The Mail Order Brides of Boot Creek Book 3) (10 page)

I
sat before a dressing table
, while Mrs. Hershey’s maid fussed with my hair. She had artfully arranged beads and fake flowers, inserting them into a bun at the nape of my neck. A white bonnet would complete the look, but it lifted in the back to expose my hair.

“You’re lovely,” gushed Mrs. Hershey. She held a cup of tea, while Mrs. Lola Kelly, who I had been fortunate enough to befriend, sat at a nearby table. She had only just begun to show now, as her pregnancy had progressed.

“Indeed, she does. You’ve triumphed again, Doris. Three successful weddings.”

“Well, two and a half. Chastity Donovan didn’t find love with her intended, although she ran off with his best friend. I received a letter from her, you know. She’s happy and with child. That is all anyone can ask for.”

“And I’m happy.” Mrs. Kelly smiled. “Jack and I had such struggles in the beginning. You know my family history. My mother’s
still
trying to convince me to come home. I’ve no desire to leave my husband.” She patted her belly. “Soon there will be a child, which pleases everyone.”

“Except your mother.”

“I can’t help that. You know why I could never go home. Some families don’t get along well, and mine is such a family.” She shrugged. “But I’ve a new home here, with friends who mean the world to me.”

I stood, smoothing the cream colored skirt, adoring the feel of the satiny fabric. “I do believe I’m ready.”

“Nicolas will be stunned when he sees you,” said Doris. “You are truly lovely, Celia.”

“Thank you.”

Mrs. Kelly got to her feet. “But the outfit isn’t complete until you wear this.” She withdrew a strand of pearls. “Something borrowed.”

“Oh, gracious!”

“Turn around.” I did so, as she attached the necklace, the pearls feeling cold around my throat. “Now you’re ready.”

“They’re lovely.”

“They belonged to Jack’s mother. I thought they’d complement the dress, and they do.”

“Everyone’s waiting at the church,” said Mrs. Hershey. “If we’re ready, we should go.”

“I’ll just check on Noah.” A nanny would bring him, watching over him during the ceremony.

“We’ll wait for you in the foyer.” Doris reached for her handbag. “I am always so pleased when a plan comes together.”

Mrs. Kelly grinned, her lovely face sporting pretty dimples. “It has indeed … again.”

“Now if only my husband would not give me such grief. I fully intend on continuing to match needy ladies with lonely men. Lord knows there are more than enough bachelors in Boot Creek to keep me in business for quite some time.” They continued to talk, as they left the room.

After I had seen to Noah, assuring myself he was in good hands, I descended to the first floor, feeling like a princess in the lovely skirt and bodice. My figure had returned, my waist having nearly shrunk to where it was before.

“And we’re ready now,” said Doris. “The carriages await.”

Doris and Lola were my maids of honor, and they would travel with me. “Then we should go,” I said, eager and excited at the prospect of finally marrying Nicolas.

The ride to the church was less than five minutes, while I sat and reflected that my life would soon never be the same again. Not only was I about to marry the man I loved, but he was also the most handsome man in town, although I might be biased. Nicolas had discovered that Emma had annulled the marriage three years ago, thereby freeing him to offer for me. He had purchased a pretty sapphire and diamond ring, presenting it to me at dinner three weeks ago. Our official engagement had been met with resounding approval. The town appeared en masse at our engagement party, helping us to celebrate the good news. The Kelly’s had hosted the event, Lola offering to purchase my wedding ensemble. I had refused at first, but her powers of persuasion were formidable.

As I alighted from the carriage, which had stopped before the church, I sucked in a cleansing breath, spying flowers in the doorway. Noah and Nanny, Marguerite, had arrived, the older lady carrying the baby. She hurried up the steps, entering the building before me. There were dozens of carriages parked in the street, along with several horses tethered to the hitching post. My bridesmaids preceded me, and we waited in the vestibule, where Mrs. Hershey placed a veil upon my head, which lay over the bonnet.

“You’re ready now, my dear,” she whispered.

“I suppose I am.”

“Good luck and felicity in marriage. You’ve made me proud. I adore you and Nicolas as a couple, and I just know you’ll be dreadfully happy together.”

“I believe so.”

As the music began to play, Mrs. Kelly and Doris turned their attention to the aisle, where flowers adorned each pew. They walked before me, while the guests observed their entrance. When the “Wedding March” played, I took the first step towards the future I had always yearned for. Spying Nicolas standing with his groomsmen, I felt a thrill at the sight of him, his handsome face awash with happiness.

When I had finally reached him, hearing Noah’s cry behind me, I giggled, whispering, “I wonder if he’ll behave long enough?”

“I told Pastor Henry to make it quick.”

The visiting preacher came from Santa Fe, and he appeared before us, nodding towards me. “Good afternoon, everyone.”

While he spoke, I felt a fit of the giggles coming on, and I tried my best to remain calm. It seemed my happiness would not be contained, feeling as if it might burst out of me at any moment. I wanted to fling myself at Nick, but I had to wait until after we had said our vows, exchanging wedding bands. Even then I had to restrain myself, because an overt show of emotion was unseemly.

Noah managed to keep quiet long enough for the ceremony to take place without incident, but I would have to feed him before the reception. We traveled to Mrs. Hershey’s house together in the same carriage, while others arrived, one-by-one, clogging the street. I found myself in the mayor’s den with Noah in my arms, while Nicolas shut the door, giving me privacy.

“Do we really need to attend the reception?” he asked, sitting next to me.

“Yes.” Noah began to wail in earnest now, and I handed the baby to Nick. “I have to open the bodice. Oh, goodness, this will be a chore. So many tiny buttons.”

My husband gazed at me raptly. “I am now officially able to help you.”

I giggled, “Yes, you are.” One by one, the buttons revealed the expanse of my breasts, although the chemise mostly hid them. “Give him to me.” The hungry baby attached quickly, the crying ceasing at once. “So much better.” I relaxed against the couch, feeling lethargic and spent.

Nicolas scooted nearer, placing his arm over my head. “You are so beautiful.”

I gazed at him. “So are you.”

He kissed my forehead. “I don’t think I’ve ever been this happy, Celia. I never thought it was possible.”

“Me either. I better not wake and find out it’s all been a dream and I’m married to Walter Holter.”

His laughter filled my ear. “I daresay, I hope not. You’re
my
wife.” He kissed my cheek. “You’re my love.” Another kiss landed near my mouth. “You’ll be my lover soon enough.” There was a husky timber to his tone. “As soon as I can get you alone.”

“Behave yourself. We’ve the reception still. There will be Roast Ducking and chicken and beef. I plan to taste everything and have cake.”

“I know you will. I’d never deprive you of that joy.”

I kissed him, enjoying the closeness. “I adore you, Nick.”

“I adore you, Mrs. Kinsley.”

“I like the sound of that.”

A knock on the door startled us. “Who is it?” asked Nicolas.

“It’s me,” said Mrs. Hershey. “Everything’s ready. They’re all waiting for you.”

“We’ll be a moment still,” I said. “I’m feeding Noah.”

“All right. I’ll tell them.”

My husband sighed. “This peace isn’t meant to last.”

“Later.” I touched his face, feeling the abrasive quality of his skin. “We won’t be bothered then. After I put Noah down, we can be together.”

“But first speeches and champagne toasts. It’s tedious.” His grin gave away his happiness. “But, I shall suffer for you … gladly.”

“You once said that if this is suffering, you’d take it.”

“Absolutely. I’m done with all of that now anyhow. I finally feel as if I can move forward in life. I didn’t realize how stuck I was. You saved me, Celia. I’ll always be grateful for that.”

“You saved me too, Nick. More than you know.”

Warmth shone from his eyes, while our lips met in a languid and passionate kiss that seemed to go on and on …

A
fter a refreshing nap
, I woke to find that lamps had been lit, as the sun had gone down. I luxuriated in a bath, indulging myself for an hour in the tub, while Tory washed and rinsed my hair. The tresses being as long as they were, I sat by the fire waiting for them to dry, although most were still damp when Tory arranged them cleverly on top of my head.

By eight o’clock, I had dressed in a tight fitting bodice, with a crisp flare that hung over a bustled skirt. I adored the satiny patterned fabric, with a high-necked, black frill collar. Whilst examining myself in a mirror, I felt certain I was ready to join the others at dinner.

“You’ll be late.”

“Only by a few minutes. It’ll be my grand entrance.”

Tory stood behind me with her hands on her hips. “You look lovely, as always.”

“Thank you.” Retrieving my drawstring purse from the dresser, I held it on a gloved hand. “Then I’m off.”

“When can I expect you?”

“Eleven or later.”

“Very well. Shall I have some tea waiting?”

“That would be nice.” I strolled from the room, heading towards the door.

She followed me through the parlor. “I think I’ll read.”

“Excellent idea.” My hand wrapped around the knob. “I’ll take you to lunch tomorrow. Would you like that?”

“I suppose.” She seemed a little low on spirits.

“Smile, Tory. All is not lost.”

“I miss my family.”

Irritated, I ignored that comment, knowing that I would have to deal with this issue at a later date. If I decided to stay in Boot Creek, I might have to let Tory go. That bothered me terribly, as she was more than my maid, and I would never find another like her.

Pushing aside these unhappy thoughts, I descended the three flights of stairs to the foyer, where ladies and gentlemen had gathered, waiting to be seated in the dining room. The glow of lamplight cast a flattering light, and, as I passed a mirror, I noted that I did not appear as pale now.

“My dear.”

I turned to find Percy, who had changed into a frock coat and top hat. “Hello.”

“I was waiting for you.”

“I’m sorry I’m late.”

His appreciative gaze drifted over me. “It was worth the wait.”

I smiled. “I’m glad you think so.”

“You truly are one of the loveliest women I’ve ever seen.”

“Oh, you mustn’t flatter me.” I placed a hand on his proffered arm, near the wrist. “But thank you.”

“I’ve a table, but I won’t have you to myself, I’m afraid. I’ll have to share you with the mayor and his wife, Mr. and Mrs. Kelly, and Mr. Brittle.”

The toe of my boot caught the edge of the carpet. “Oh!”

His hand grasped mine. “Do be careful, Evelyn.”

“I’m not normally so clumsy.” People glanced our way, leaving me slightly embarrassed. “I doubt anyone saw that.”

“No, you’re fine.” He guided me across the room, where the din transformed into quiet murmurs. “We’ll be the talk of the town tomorrow.”

I spied the table, because I recognized Mr. Brittle, who seemed to sit taller than anyone else. A distinguished looking couple sat next to the mayor and his wife, and I assumed they were Mr. and Mrs. Kelly. When we approached, the men stood.

Mr. Brittle grinned. “Good evening, Miss Warner.”

“Hello.” I glanced at the expectant faces around me. “I’m sorry I’m late.”

“My dear,” said Percy. “This is Mr. and Mrs. Hershey and Mr. and Mrs. Kelly.”

“How do you do?” I asked politely.

“It’s good to meet you,” said Mr. Kelly, pulling out my chair. “Come sit next to us.”

By a strange twist of fate, I found myself seated between Mrs. Kelly and Mr. Brittle, while Percy remained across the table. A waiter placed the napkin in my lap, while another poured wine.

“Mrs. Kelly is one of my success stories,” said Mrs. Hershey. “She’s a mail order bride too.”

I glanced at the pretty blonde in the feathered hat. “Congratulations on your marriage,” I murmured. “It’s a comfort to know the process can work.”

“Jack and I had a few bumps along the way.” She cast a teasing, yet disgruntled look towards Mr. Brittle. “There was some trouble, but it all sorted itself out in the end.”

“And the Kelly’s have an adorable new baby, little Elizabeth.”

Mr. Kelly grinned, and from the looks of it, he was substantially older than his wife. “Indeed. We couldn’t be happier about that.”

“Although he wanted a boy to inherit, but we’ll just have to give Lizzy a brother, I suppose.”

I felt a ping of jealously at the way he looked at his wife. There was unguarded affection in that look, while he placed his hand over hers. “I’m hopeful for such an outcome too, although my maid wants to return to Philadelphia. I might have to send her home on her own. I’ve made up my mind. I don’t plan on returning.”

“It’s difficult to leave everything familiar behind,” said Mrs. Kelly. “It’s a huge leap of faith.”

“Or desperation,” murmured Mr. Brittle. He sipped what looked like whiskey, and I had to wonder why he was with us at dinner.

“Yes, there were some secrets, weren’t there, Lola dear?” Mr. Kelly grinned, the edges of his eyes creasing.

“It’s no secret I wanted to escape my family.”

Now this had my attention, because I was in a similar circumstance. “You did?”

“I was essentially a runaway. I lied about my last name, and I married Jack without anyone’s knowledge. My stepfather managed to find me. He kidnapped me, but Jack stopped him. It was a horrible time, but I’d do it again, because I adore you so.” She glanced at her husband. “I don’t regret a thing.” Again she glowered at Mr. Brittle briefly, and I had to wonder at that look.

The waiter arrived with the menus, and once we had placed our orders, more wine appeared. I took a glass, feeling the attention of Mr. Brittle. How I had ended up sitting next to him baffled me.

“You’re the prettiest woman in the room,” he murmured.

“Please don’t talk to me.”

He chuckled, “Aw … come on, honey. I’m not gonna bite.”

“Oh, you’ve done more than enough already.” I lifted my chin, smiling at everyone. “Cheers.” I held up the glass. “To new beginnings.”

“Indeed,” agreed Mrs. Hershey.

“What are your plans, Miss Warner?” asked the mayor, who was a rosy-cheeked, rotund man.

“I plan to marry … soon.” This had everyone’s attention. “Very soon.”

“Which one of the ladies ended up without a husband?” asked Mr. Hershey. “Who was that?”

“That was Celia, but she married Pastor Kinsley instead, which was a far better match anyhow. They’re very happy indeed.”

“Celia’s one of my best friends,” said Mrs. Kelly. “I adore her. Our children will play together soon enough, once Lizzy is older. Little Noah is the most adorable little boy.”

Mrs. Hershey beamed. “I cannot tell you how happy it makes me to see all these babies. It warms my heart. It’s a confirmation that all my efforts are not in vain.”

Mr. Brittle coughed. “Excuse me.”

I glanced at him, finding him staring in another direction. This presented his profile, a slightly crooked, aquiline nose. A dusting of shorn, darkish hair covered a strong jawline. He sensed my attention, glancing at me. To my dismay, I flushed then, either from the wine or the feeling of flutters and tingles in my belly, which was most disconcerting.

Percy had been quiet, but he spoke then. “I do declare, isn’t Evelyn a handsome woman? My mother said so herself when she met her. My family esteems you, my dear.”

That was an exaggeration. “It was my pleasure meeting them as well. Your mother is delightful.”

“At the church, right?” asked Mr. Brittle. “Where you were supposed to marry.”

I glared at him. “No. I met them at the … at the … hotel.”

“At the wedding reception.”

“An engagement luncheon.”

“With an enormous wedding cake.”

“Oh, stop it, Chuck,” admonished Mrs. Kelly. “So things have not gone smoothly, but when do they ever? I’m sure we’ll have a wedding and a reception soon enough.”

“Indeed,” agreed Percy. “By next week.”

Mr. Brittle said, “Why wait? Keeping this one on a long tether might be dangerous. She could end up marrying some other fella, if you’re not careful.”

“She’s
my
fiancé, Chuck. That would be impossible.” Percy scowled, reaching for a glass of wine.

Mrs. Hershey glanced my way, her look astute. “Mr. Brittle, might I be so bold to ask how old you are?”

“You can ask. It’s no secret. I’m nearly thirty.”

“And yet you have no wife.”

“Seems like I don’t.” He leaned back in the chair, a lazy grin on his face. “I just bought land, I’m building a house, now I need a pretty lady to … keep my bed warm.”

Laughter rang out. Mr. Kelly saying, “You can dust the road from his coat, but he’ll always be an uncouth cowboy.”

“Truly,” said Mrs. Hershey. “There are ladies at this table.” But, her look remained inquisitive. “What do you intend to do about the issue of your bachelorhood?”

“I didn’t think it was an issue.”

“You don’t plan on continuing this way, do you?”

“My dear,” chastised Mr. Hershey. “It’s none of our concern how Mr. Brittle conducts himself in his private life. Please don’t bring in one of these catalogue women for him. I beg you. Enough of this nonsense.”

Our meals had not arrived yet, but I wanted to freshen up. I got to my feet. “I’ll be back. Excuse me.”

Mrs. Kelly stood as well. “I’ll accompany you.”

I smiled. “I’ve no idea where the washroom is on this floor.”

“Follow me.”

As me moved through the dining room, curious glances came our way. In the entrance hall, Mrs. Kelly said, “Please call me Lola. Might I call you Evelyn? I love that name. It’s so pretty.”

“You may.” I followed her to a door, which opened to another room. Inside, I found several porcelain sinks set in heavily carved furniture and a partition door hiding the loo. “I’m relieved to hear of your success in marriage. I’m hopeful for a similar outcome.”

She turned to face me. “I ran away from intolerable circumstances, Evelyn. I couldn’t stay where I was. I had to trust God would not steer me wrong and he didn’t, but it was difficult. It’s a long story, but suffice it to say, I made several mistakes and so did Jack.”

“I see.”

“Chuck Brittle was one of those mistakes. My husband tested me before we met by having the train disabled and stranding the passengers. He sent Mr. Brittle to the rescue, but it was more to assess my character.” Not knowing if another lady was in the loo, she whispered, “He kissed me. He knew I was engaged to Jack and yet, he kissed me. I failed the test briefly, until I came to my senses.”

“Goodness.” That was alarming. “Your husband didn’t trust you?”

“Not before we met and not after. I had to earn his trust. But … there were other issues. It was a mess, but if two people are meant to be together, they’ll surmount the odds and marry. I’m grateful every day for the life I have. It’s wonderful and perfect and I adore Jack.” She grinned.

“I’m glad to hear that.”

“Just watch out for Chuck.”

“What?”

“He’s a good man and my husband trusts him, but he’s the town’s Lothario. He’s shameless where women are concerned. I feel I should warn you, because you seem to have caught his eye.”

“I … have?” If only she knew what had happened in the stairwell.

“Oh, for certain. If given half the chance, he’ll try to seduce you. He’s charming and handsome to be sure, but he’d never seriously offer for a woman. I’ve seen enough to know he prefers his whiskey neat, his women loose, and his horses fast. He’s perfected his exit strategy.” She glanced in the mirror, fussing with her hair. “Give that one a wide berth.”