Unspoken Love (15 page)

“Let me take care of you until you know what you want,” Blake reiterated.

Since leaving Nicholas, Jenny had found life troublesome and suffered discomfiture along the way. It would please her to rely on someone she could trust, just until she got on her feet. It was difficult for women to forge a life with men like Zachary and Gilbert who would take advantage of them. Thankfully, however, Nakao had been there to protect her. She came to a decision. “Thank you, Blake. I accept your offer.” She reached into her pocket and brought out the money she and Nakao had saved. “Take this lest we be considered charity cases. It should help pay for room and board until we are situated.”

Blake waved her hand aside. “Put your money away, Jennifer. I only want to help you.”

Jenny hesitated. She saw his resolute expression and shrugged. “If you insist. I’ll pay you back someday.” She returned the coins to her pocket and motioned for Nakao to join them. Leaving the cafe, they boarded Blake’s carriage. Jenny explained their plans to Nakao and asked if he agreed.

Nakao gazed into her troubled eyes. “I will indulge you until you know your heart.”

Jenny smiled, grateful for Nakao’s support.

Blake took them to a quaint cottage on the outskirts of town. Surrounded by woods, the small stucco house and stable painted a tranquil scene. Black-eyed Susans and wild azaleas filled the well-cared-for landscape. Vines of lush green ivy trailed along the stone garden path.

Blake tossed aside the reins, helped Jenny from the carriage, and escorted her to the house. Nakao followed, wary and alert to danger, as was his nature.

Blake invited them into the parlor. “Make yourself comfortable while I get the maid,” he said and exited the room.

Nakao stood in the doorway while Jenny strolled around the lavishly furnished room. Red velvet furniture trimmed in black walnut sat against the walls, and a marble table was enhanced by an ornate oval mirror, which hung above it. Jenny ran her fingers over the piano keys and touched a fringed silk tapestry that graced the piano case. She felt the lace curtains and heavy brocade draperies. Wallpaper with soft pink blossoms complimented the room, and a painting hanging on the wall showed a vibrant garden in full bloom.

“These furnishings remind me of
Small Timbers
,” she told Nakao. She felt a pang of anguish as the words flowed from her mouth. Thankfully, Blake sent her thoughts in a new direction when he returned with the servant and made the introductions.

“Lily, I want you to meet Jennifer Grant. She will be staying here indefinitely.” Lily curtsied slightly and smiled. With innocent blue eyes, the dark-skinned woman looked at Jenny.

“I’m pleased to make your acquaintance, Ma’am.”

“Don’t be so formal, call me Jenny.”

Lily grinned, her gaze shifting to Nakao.

“This is my friend, Nakao,” Jenny said, noting they were still staring at each other.

Nakao nodded to Lily. He continued to watch the comely young maid with silken black hair. A white muslin apron covered the gray cotton gown that she wore but didn’t hide the shapely form beneath her garments.

Jenny sent Nakao a warm smile. She had seen something likened to passion in his eyes with his long appraisal of Lily. Pleased for him, she silently vowed to encourage their relationship if Lily wasn’t spoken for.

Blake addressed Nakao. “I could use a new gardener and groundskeeper. If you want the job, you may stay at the guesthouse down the lane.”

Standing tall and proud, Nakao considered Blake’s proposal. “I will stay,” Nakao said. He glanced at Lily who sent him a shy grin before averting her eyes. “I love working in the soil and watching the earth bring forth nature’s bounty.”

Jenny’s spirits rose as she met Blake’s gaze. “I can’t thank you enough, Blake.”

Blake kissed her hand. “I’m happy to help.” He turned to address Lily. “Lily, show Nakao to his quarters. When you return, give Jenny anything she wants.” To Jenny, he said, “My agenda is full today. I must leave on business.” He took in her threadbare apparel. “Tomorrow I’ll return, and we’ll go on a shopping excursion. I know just the dressmaker for you.”

“Must we shop? You have done far too much already.”

“Nonsense, Jenny. You will be the belle of the ball in Natchez. I’ll take you dancing and dining, or whatever your heart desires.” Jenny gave him a distressed look prompting him to say, “I won’t rush you, Jenny. Yet surely, you know I care a great deal for you. Maybe someday you’ll feel the same as I do.” Tearing himself away, he retreated from the room.

Jenny moved to the window and watched him ride away while a myriad of thoughts raced through her mind. Blake had been quite generous to her. She now wondered if she had done the right thing by accepting his hospitality. She knew she must find work and pay her way, for she refused to accept his generosity indefinitely. She knew Blake cared deeply for her, yet she didn’t feel the same excitement for him. Only Nicholas could stir her heart and passion. He haunted her even now as she recalled their union the night before. Sadness enveloped her as she realized he was out of her life forever.
I’ve got to forget his handsome face and his eyes that were so full of passion.

Nicholas awakened with a throbbing headache, saw the empty wine decanter, and knew from whence his pain came. He glanced around the room for Jenny, but she wasn’t there. He heard demanding patrons moving about the inn and assumed she’d returned to her work. A knock on the door made him assume Jenny had returned. He swung the door wide in anticipation but found Tessie standing at the entrance.

“Would you like breakfast brought up to your room, Sir?”

He hid his disappointment. “No thank you, Tessie. Would you send Jenny to my room?”

“Jenny doesn’t work here anymore. She and the Indian left early this morning. Is there anything I can get you?”

“No, Tessie, please return to your tasks.” He tossed her a coin for her endeavor, then closed the door.

“
How could I be such a fool? Jenny must be with the Indian
.”

His world collapsed around him as he packed his bag. He wanted to blame her for their problems but knew he was at fault. From the beginning, he had forced her into marriage and disrupted her life. Though he was weary and beaten, he made a promise to himself, “You’ll be mine again, Jenny. I will hold you in my arms once again!”

Chapter 16

In the days ahead, Blake was Jenny’s constant companion. He took her shopping and presented her with gowns of the finest material. Money was no object as he escorted her around town, taking in the entertainment, and dining at the finer restaurants. Jenny protested his extravagance, but he continued to lavish her with gifts.

One afternoon as Blake drove Jenny about town, he pointed to a section dubbed
Natchez Under The Hill
. “Stay away from there,” he warned. “Thieves and cutthroats plague the area. It’s no place for a lady.” They returned to the elite part of town. “Handsomely spoiled patrons live life to the fullest here,” Blake volunteered. “Some party and spend their money frivolously, but I’m not one of them.”

Jenny gazed at men wearing richly tailored garments. The ladies dashed to and fro, adorned in extravagant gowns, seeking to impress others with their wealth. She looked away from the privileged class and concentrated on Blake as he brought the carriage to a halt. “Blake, I want to discuss my finances,” she began. “You seem to be taking control of my life. Whenever I mention looking for work, you staunchly refuse to listen.”

“I have money and want to spend it on you,” he countered. “You don’t need a job. I’ll take care of you as long as you will let me.”

“I want to work, not sit at home and be pampered,” Jenny replied. She knew he was in love with her and that it wasn’t proper for her to remain in his home. She had relented partly because of Nakao. He and Lily had become more than friends, and she knew they shared intimate moments together. Nakao was in love, and she was exceedingly happy for him. Still, it did nothing to help her disposition with Nicholas constantly invading her thoughts, contrary to her promise to forget him.

Nicholas rode to Thomas’s farm, knowing he was about to take the biggest gamble of his life. He pulled up at the farmhouse, dismounted, and tied the reins to the hitching post.

He had barely knocked on the door when Emma greeted him with a smile and motioned for him to come inside.

“Welcome,” she said. “Thomas is in the parlor. Go on in. I’ll bring some refreshments.”

“Much obliged, Emma.” He removed his hat and strode into the parlor.

Thomas grinned and motioned for him to have a seat. “It’s good to see you, Nicholas.”

“I trust you are doing well,” Nicholas said, hoping what he had to say wouldn’t upset him.

“I’m getting by. Dr. Jones thinks I’m improving, so all is good.” Thomas gave him a concerned look. “You’re a busy man, Nicholas. What really brings you here?”

“I have a confession to make, Thomas. I should have been honest from the onset, but Jenny convinced me not to tell you due to your health issues. I cannot deceive you any longer.”

Thomas sat upright. “Go on.”

“I forced Jenny to marry me so that I could inherit my uncle’s plantation.” He went on to explain the whole scenario and concluded by saying, “I thought I had it all figured out until I fell in love with her. I’ve been miserable since she left. I’d give up the plantation if I could win her back.”

Thomas was quiet for a moment. “I suspected something was amiss.” He gave him a questioning gaze. “What did you expect to gain by telling me this?”

“Well, for one thing, I ask for your forgiveness. I never meant to hurt you, or Jenny.” He paused. “I’ve thought about this a lot. Will you let me take you to the plantation to live? I’ll look after you like you were my own kin.”

“Well, it appears that your kin has up and left you,” Thomas replied, making light of a serious situation.

“If only I could bring Jenny back,” Nicholas sighed.

“Where is Jenny now?”

“I wish I knew. The last I saw her she was working at an inn in Natchez. She disappeared before I could beg her to come home. If it hadn’t been for that Indian…”

“Indian?”

Nicholas nodded.

“His name is Nakao. Jenny befriended him when his brother, Waoota, was charged with murder. She spoke to Judge White on Waoota’s behalf. Eventually Waoota was freed, and Nakao felt indebted to Jenny.”

“I could be wrong, Nicholas, but I think Jenny is in love with you. There is no place in her heart for Nakao or any other man.” He took a deep breath and continued, “I’m sorry for your discontent, yet I can’t blame Jenny for leaving. She’s a good woman, but headstrong. Give her time to know her own heart.”

“If you consent to go home with me, Hattie, my faithful servant, will see to your needs, or you can bring Emma along if you like.”

“You’ve certainly enlightened me today, Nicholas. Let me think about your offer.”

Nicholas leaned forward. “I also have another proposition for you . . .”

Over the next several days, Jenny found herself waking up with severe nausea and often sipped ginger tea to sooth her queasiness. She recalled Doc Jones’ previous diagnosis. As Lily entered the room one morning carrying a savory breakfast, Jenny retched into the basin. She set the food down, grabbed a wet washcloth, and wiped her brow. She then led her back to bed.

“How far along are you?”

“What—what do you mean?” Jenny stammered, dropping onto the mattress.

“You are with child, are you not?”

“No, I can’t be.” She pressed her fingers to her temples. “It’s my nerves. I’ve had a lot on my mind lately.”

“I think otherwise.” Lily answered, wise beyond her seventeen years. “I don’t wish to alarm you, Jenny, but you are with child.”

Jenny bolted from the bed to protest until blackness engulfed her.

She awoke to Nakao bending over her, his face grave with concern.

“Lily tells me you are with child. Do not be afraid, we will see this through together.”

Jenny focused her eyes on Nakao. No words were spoken, but they knew it was Nicholas’s child that she carried. “I need a breath of fresh air. Will you help me outside?”

Nakao lifted Jenny off the bed and steadied her. Confident that her legs would support her, he agreed to let her leave the cottage. “I need time alone to sort my thoughts. I’ll call you if I need you.” Deeply worried, she walked into the forest.

Blake Preston rode into view and dismounted. Nakao motioned him aside.

“What is it, Nakao?” he asked, impatient to see Jenny.

“Jenny is with child.”

“Jenny is pregnant? How? We have not—” His eyes narrowed. “Are you the father?”

“No, Nicholas is the father. She was with him the night before you found her at the cafe. They could not come to terms, and she insisted that we leave as he slept at the inn.”

“Jenny has not been truthful with me, but I respect her privacy. I love her regardless of her condition. I’ll marry her,” he said thoughtfully. “I can give her and the baby everything they desire.”

“We will let Jenny decide,” Nakao said.

Lily came from the house and flashed Nakao a big grin. Nakao watched her approach, feeling soothed by her presence. He drew strong support from this compassionate and loving woman. Passion surged through him when he clasped Lily’s hand. He planned to make her his wife someday. But for now, his thoughts were on Jenny and her dilemma.

Jenny ambled from the woods with purpose, the solitude having brought her peace. She wanted this baby with all her being, regardless that he would not have a father and that she might become an outcast for rearing a child alone.

Blake rushed to her side with Nakao fast on his heels. He grasped her hand. “I want to marry you.”

Nakao brushed his hand aside. “I will speak with Jennifer first.”

Jenny stood in the clearing as Blake and Nakao continued to argue. She ordered the men to be quiet.

“Thank you for caring,” she said. “But this is my problem, and I will face it alone.” She heard someone approaching and spun around to see Nicholas riding toward her. She gasped when his deep voice cracked into the air.

“You can’t marry Jennifer! She’s my wife.”

“In case you forgot, we divorced long ago.”

Nicholas dismounted and strode to Jennifer. He gave Nakao and Blake a curt nod.

“Excuse us, gentlemen. Jenny and I need a moment of privacy.” Escorting her away from the men, he walked her down a path until they were hidden from view.

“I was so close to having Jenny all to myself only to have Nicholas show up!” Blake angrily spouted to Nakao. “He’s bound to hinder my plans.”

Nakao grinned, knowing to which man Jenny belonged. Lily came to his side, and they strolled into the gardens, leaving Blake alone and frustrated. He paced the ground, impatiently waiting for Jenny’s return.

Jenny could hardly believe Nicholas was standing beside her. She feasted her eyes on his handsome face.

“Are you so popular that men must fight among themselves to have you?” he demanded to know.

“Oh, Nicholas, you misunderstand. I am with child. I conceived the night we were together at the Riverside Inn. Blake offered to marry me lest our child be born a bastard.”

“Your child will have a name, Jenny. We are still married.”

“Surely you jest! We were to be divorced when I fulfilled your contract. I left word with you to proceed with it.”

“I couldn’t do it, Jenny.” He gathered a section of her ebony hair and rolled his fingers through the silken tresses. A look of determination came over him as he gazed into her eyes. “I want you to return to the plantation.”

Jenny studied Nicholas and focused on the best way to approach her problem. She knew that she could nurture the child growing inside her but also knew that the baby would need security, and she could not forget that Nicholas was, indeed, the father
.

“If I go with you to
Small Timbers
, I insist that Nakao and Lily, if she chooses, come with me.”

“Whatever you wish, Jenny. I just want you to come home.” He cupped her chin and gazed into her eyes. “I promise not to make unwanted advances.”

Jenny nodded her consent. “Then it’s settled. Let’s tell the others of our plans.”

When they returned from the woods, Jenny motioned Blake aside. “Nicholas just informed me that we are still married. I’ll be returning to
Small Timbers
with him.” Guilt tugged at her heart as she watched Blake’s features change from shock to anguish. She squeezed his hand. “Thank you for everything, Blake. You’ve been very generous and I’ll always remember your kindness to me. I’ll reimburse you for the gifts you gave to me.”

“My dreams are dissolving, Jenny. I thought we had a chance—”

“I value your friendship. Let’s leave it at that,” she said and joined Nicholas.

Blake strode up beside them and sent Nicholas a reproachful glare. “If you weren’t married to Jenny, I’d challenge you to a duel.”

Nicholas sent him a lethal look that caused Blake to be the first to look away.

Blake faced Jenny. “I’ll leave you to your packing, Jenny.” With haste, he strode to his horse, mounted, and galloped away.

Nicholas unhitched the reins from the hitching post. “Pack your things. I’ll hire a carriage to take you to
Small Timbers
. I’ll return shortly.” He jumped astride Dexter and rode down the path.

Jenny motioned for Lily and Nakao to join her. “I’m going back to the plantation with Nicholas. Would either of you care to go with me?”

Lily stepped forward. Her eyes sparkled with glee. “I’d consider it an honor to go with you.”

Nakao placed his hand on Jenny’s shoulder. “I’ll follow, too.”

While Jenny and Lily rode in the carriage, Nicholas and Nakao rode their stallions alongside the coach. During the many hours of riding, they became better acquainted. When Nicholas learned that Lily was Nakao’s love interest, he became more hospitable toward him. Still, not clearly understanding why Jenny and the Indian had been at the Riverside Inn together, he kept a watchful eye on him when they stopped to rest and take their meals.

Once they arrived at the plantation, Nicholas helped Jenny alight from the carriage. As his arms circled her waist, their eyes met. Flames of passion engulfed her, and she knew, regardless of their conflict, she was still attracted to him. She moved away from him and started toward the house.

Thomas stepped onto the veranda and flagged her attention. She rushed into his robust arms. “Father!”

He gave her a hearty hug and held her at arms’ length. His bright blue eyes searched hers. “Why didn’t you share your problems with me?” he scolded lightheartedly. “Don’t you know that I have always been here for you?”

“Father, you were gravely ill, and I couldn’t chance jeopardizing your health. Dr. Jones stressed that we were not to upset you.”

“Well, I’m fine now, Jenny.” When she gave him a skeptical look, he shrugged his shoulders. “Okay,” he sighed. “I do have to be careful and not tax myself, but I get around well.” He added, “Nicholas and I have been waiting for you to return to the plantation. I moved in at his request. I sold the farm and invested the money.”

“You sold the farm?” she gasped. “It was your prized possession.”

“I’m too old and infirm to run it, Jenny. I had to let it go. By investing the money, you’ll be a rich heiress someday.”

“I don’t care about being rich, Father. I only want to be with you.” A wistful look came into her eyes. “I’m saddened that you gave up our cherished farm, but your health takes precedence over all else.” Feeling betrayed by Nicholas, she spun around and faced him. “You didn’t tell me Father was here.”

“I wanted to surprise you,” Nicholas answered.

Jenny gave Nicholas a reproachful look then addressed her father. “Clearly, Nicholas has confided all in you, Father.”

“Let me explain,” Nicholas responded. “In the beginning, I did not intend to tell Thomas about us. When I found out that you had not gone home, I had little recourse but to reveal your dilemma lest your father imagine the worst and actually have a relapse.”

“And a wise choice he made,” Thomas interjected. “I knew you were heavily burdened, Jenny. As to Nicholas’s wayward scheme, I can forgive him. He has assured me he is in love with you. It takes a strong man to confess his wrongdoings, and I admire him for his honesty.”

Jenny doubted that Nicholas truly loved her and couldn’t fathom why he had owned up to it. Her eyes softened when she glanced at her father. She couldn’t scold him for siding with Nicholas. Besides, she felt a huge relief that her secret was out in the open. She glanced from Nicholas to her father. They reeked of conspiracy, and she could tell they had become allies in her absence. She knew she wouldn’t get any sympathy from either of them. “Men!” she scoffed, stomping into the house as their laughter rang in her ears.

Thomas sent Nicholas a conspiring wink.

“Give her time,” he encouraged. “I am old and decrepit, but my romantic heart knows that you and Jenny are meant to be together.”