The Preacher’s Bride

©2019 by Stella Clark

All rights reserved. No part of this may be reproduced, distributed or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written permission.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents are a product of the author's imagination. Any resemblance to actual people, living or dead, or to businesses, events or locales is completely coincidental.

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

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Chapter One

The violinist switched to Beethoven, and Molly bit back another groan. If her mother heard another one of those, she’d be in trouble. At least, more trouble than she was in by being stuck at the dinner party. Four dancers attempted to follow the music, but three of them were too awkward. Most of the couples were sitting in the corners, talking quietly over their tea.

They did have good tea. Molly granted their hosts that. But everything else at the Grady homestead made her so bored that she couldn’t decide if she wanted to daydream or just stare at the ceiling. She’d already indulged in both activities since their arrival three hours ago.

Someone cleared their voice behind her and she jumped, worried it might be her mother. Turning in the large chair, Molly was relieved to find it was not Mrs. Karen Hathaway. But the relief quickly dissipated at the sight of Leon Grady.

He was skinny and pockmarked with heavily lidded-eyes that only served as a physical reminder of his dullness. Even the smile he offered her was limp. “Molly. Shall we dance?”

“To this?” Molly blinked, then glanced at the stumbling figures. She remembered at the last minute to be polite. “Thank you kindly, but I’m afraid I don’t feel well enough to be so daring as to … dance. I’ll just sit here peaceably.”

“Oh.” He rocked on his heels, cradling a glass with both hands. “Should I join you?”

The only order she wanted to give him was to go away. But she’d been raised better than that. Molly opened her mouth and was looking for some dramatic excuse to provide when she felt an irritating itch on the back of her neck. Her mother was watching. “You don’t need to do that,” she stammered, losing her cool. Oh, she’d be in trouble tonight. “Although I suppose you could fetch me a drink? Something with a lot of ice. Summer is so hot, isn’t it?”

He nodded, took two steps toward the table, and then turned back. “Yes. Yes, summer is hot, indeed.” Then, once he’d answered her question, Leon walked to the food and punch table. However, Miss Geraldine Faulks had just scooped up the last of the goblets, so he’d have to find a drink for her elsewhere. If Molly was lucky, she supposed, it would take him all night.

Except this meant she was on his radar now, as well as her mother’s. And if her mother was watching her now, that meant her father, Saul, would be. And if he was, that meant Mr. and Mrs. Grady made a party of four, prepared to stare her down. The assumed marriage the two men had been planning since her and Leon’s infancy was, if she had anything to say about it, nothing more than a whim destined for the garbage bin. Molly felt a queasy sensation in her stomach and she looked around for something that could make her look busy.

If only she had taken up violin as a child like her mother had suggested. But no, it had to be the pianoforte for her. Sighing, she leaned back into the large chair. Her heeled boots scooted forward and a soft crinkling sound reached her ears. As always, her curiosity bested her. Trying to look as much of a lady as she possibly could, Molly pursed her lips and looked down.

“A newspaper,” she grinned. Her father read it every morning, but her mother deigned it unnecessary for a proper woman to busy her brain with such political thoughts and ideas. But what else was she to use her brain for?

As she opened the wrinkled pages, she knew her mother couldn’t stomp over now and tell her not to read. That would be much too impolite, after all. Molly hid a snicker behind the large pages. She skimmed the black ink, drinking in the fascinating stories of horror and amusement. It was then, in the bottom right corner, that she found a section that changed her life.

Mail Order Bride. Peter Bain in want of wife in South Dakota. Banker with large home, looking to settle down. Will send for if proposal is acceptable. Prairie Sage post office to accept all letters.

It was in that very moment that a cozy warmth drenched itself upon Molly like an egg yolk, trickling down through her limbs to the ends of her extremities. The feeling settled in her chest, light as a feather. She didn’t know what it meant, but she liked it.

“Surely this man deserves a response,” she told herself decidedly. Though she pretended to peruse the rest of the pages, Molly focused on memorizing that section. After all, her mother would be certain to throw a fit if she attempted to leave that evening’s festivities with the paper in hand. And though that would be a funny scene, she wasn’t interested in the after-effects.

So, during the Grady house party, Molly escaped the clutches of Leon Grady, the son of her father’s business partner who everyone was attempting to set her up with, and prepared her own escape. The doomed future her parents had prepared for her years ago simply would never have the opportunity to exist. Not anymore; not if she answered the ad.

Of course, being raised to host parties and attend social engagements had always sounded lovely. Having the latest fashions was a tender perk. But once Molly had been to one party, she had been to them all. The same conversations about the never-changing sky, the same dry biscuits everyone pretended didn’t leave crumbs in their clothes, and the same faces that only grew more wrinkled with time. She understood that, in theory, she had been raised to have a good life.

It just happened to be an extremely dull life.

Boston had its amusements, certainly, but she’d always seen herself as a heroine of another tale. Her mother wanted her to be a lady when she wanted to be wild. It was her dream to have an adventure, and surely this would be it.

Besides, Molly told herself six months later, when her correspondence with Mr. Peter Bain, the banker, had led to a train ticket for her trip to South Dakota, anything would be better than marrying dull Leon Grady.

Chapter Two

The lingering notes of the final hymn came to a close. Silence filled the church and he looked out upon his congregation. They were a small group of believers, faithful Christians committed to the Lord and their community. He nodded his gratitude to them in consideration of this sobering occasion.

Adam McKey had seen the hardships and the cruelty of the world. In response, he had dedicated his life to God and become a preacher. Life had brought several challenges along the way. Each of them had been more difficult than the previous one as he worked to become more humble, stronger, and better prepared.

Yet who could prepare for something so tragic?

His heart tightened as the men rose up. Eighteen of them walked down the aisle towards the three resting coffins. The rest of the people stood in respectful silence as the boxes were delicately picked up and, one by one, were guided out of the room. The men walked out the side door and past the garden, to where the cemetery sat.

As their preacher, Adam led the way outside. The sun was bright for they were in the bare beginnings of spring. Snow was finally melting and, at long last, they could dig the necessary holes in the ground. Everyone gathered around the three new graves and waited. He swallowed, wishing again for some relief. Prairie Sage had only been his home for the past five years, but he’d recently buried more people than he wanted to consider.

He remembered every one of them. As he opened his Bible, he attempted to swallow the lump in his throat. It was difficult to get through his chosen passages without his voice cracking. There were these three poor souls. Five before them, and seven during the first round. An epidemic had ravaged the surrounding areas over the past harvest, sickening most of the people and killing more than expected. They were finally beginning to recover, but he knew others were still lying ill in their beds.

“Preacher, sir?”

The people began to mill around once the verses were read. Men began to set the coffins into the ground, readying their shovels. Women held their children back, and others returned to the church. Adam felt too drained to do anything else. But still, he offered a polite smile to Mrs. Lyle, the town’s midwife, and sister to Mrs. O’Henry, who cleaned his church every week.

“Mrs. Lyle, I’m glad to see you looking so well,” he offered. “And you know you don’t need to call me ‘sir.’ What can I do for you?”

Her eyes skittered off and she gestured towards her sister who had her arms wrapped around three little figures. They hadn’t been noticeable before with so many other children gathered nearby. But he saw them now and wondered why she had wound up with three that were not her own. “It’s the miller’s children, y’see. Johnny Miller? His wife passed in childbirth when the last was born. They’re all right, but they’re in need of a new home.”

“Oh.” Adam gripped his Bible tightly. Miller was the one being laid down at the moment. His heart bottomed out, surprising him. He hadn’t known it could drop any further. Swallowing, he tried to think. “Ah, I see. Of course, we cannot ask more from you or your sister. You’ve both done so much—”

The woman shrugged. “We’ve done what we can, and we’ll do more of that. But she’s already dealing with five of her own, and I’ve got my own ill husband to worry about without thinking of three more mouths. Surely there’s someone able and willing?”

His body betrayed him as he began to nod. But who could take in one more mouth, let alone three? Everyone was struggling to recover from the harsh winter and the sickness. “Indeed. Please, allow me. I’ll take the children into my care for now until we find them a new home.”

“You?”

Him? That statement had come out of nowhere. Her response made Adam realize what he had just said. A flush crept up his neck that he tried to ignore. He hadn’t meant the words, but there was something that felt right about them now. It was a feeling he had experienced in his heart before, a soft thumping that reminded him he was simply one of God’s tools.

So he nodded. This must be what the Lord wanted. “Of course. I helped raise five siblings after all, and they fared well. My home is more than big enough to fit a few more souls. Do they have any belongings with them?”

Mrs. Lyle was soon convinced that Adam was more than capable. He’d had years, after all, to prove that he was patient, generous, and kind. He took his work seriously in the town and had been given the opportunity to rent out the original town’s church as his home. That in itself was large for a family, let alone a bachelor. Townsfolk had donated old furniture and he’d built a few pieces himself. Children, he supposed, might make it feel more like a home.

Johnny Miller had a few debts left unpaid, so his mill and house were sold to pay for them. The belongings within, along with the horse, were turned over to the children. Thad was the eldest and only boy at the age of nine, a beanpole with a constant flow of questions Rose was tall for her seven years, and promised to be a challenge with her furrowed brow. Vera, at three years old, appeared instead to be the easiest, always cheerful just to be included.

Soon the children had their own room in the back corner of his home. Additionally, they had a large chest of their clothes and toys with anything else they had wanted from their home. Adam didn’t want to take much at first, feeling intrusive. But then, realizing the children might want something familiar to cling to, he took as much as seemed reasonable.

Everything seemed reasonable until that evening as the expectant children stared at him as if they were waiting for something. He just didn’t know what.

Chapter Three

Molly Hathaway tried to imagine what it would be like as a banker’s wife in South Dakota. Surely similar to that of a banker’s wife in Boston? Her eyes scoured the countryside on the train ride out west. She could feel her heart beating right out of her chest, having waited nineteen years for an adventure. It was finally happening.

Well, she resolved, at least it wouldn’t be like the life of a miner’s wife or a rancher’s wife. Those options seemed much too rustic for her taste. No, a banker would do. Even in the middle of nowhere, that had to mean something.

It made her smile just thinking of the west.

Her parents, on the other hand, had been far from cheerful about her decision. They’d attempted to bar her from leaving the house twice in the last week, and that said nothing of their other creative solutions to change her mind. Molly rolled her eyes. Those two had simply never understood her tastes and her curiosity for the unknown.

The further from Boston she went, the more she wanted to sing at the top of her lungs. She’d assumed there would be hesitation or at least a smidgen of trepidation. And yet there was none. It was going to be a glorious adventure, indeed. A handsome banker at her side as they explored the Wild West. Why, if anything could be a dream come true, that just might be it.

She giggled to herself and giggled all the way to South Dakota.

However, the merriment came to an end when Peter Bain picked her up at the train station. Although Molly didn’t want to admit to herself what she had expected, it certainly wasn’t him. Certainly he had mentioned he was tall with dark hair, she thought to herself. But this gentleman was balding and likely her height.

He wouldn’t stop sniffling. “Sorry,” he muttered into a handkerchief, showing her down the street. “It’s all the dust here.”

Molly didn’t know what to say, so she focused on keeping a smile on her face, her dress clean, and her luggage in hand. He hadn’t offered to carry either of her two carpetbags. And where were they going? Didn’t he have a horse and wagon?

“If you don’t mind,” she asked bravely, “might you tell me wherever we are going? My bags, you see, they’re—”

He cut her off. “Just picking something up from work. You want to see the office, don’t you?” But Peter didn’t look back to see her purse her lips. They only grew tighter upon entering the bank of Prairie Sage and finding that he was not a true banker after all. Instead, he was simply a lowly bank clerk.

It’s nothing, she tried to tell herself. Surely she had misunderstood. Or perhaps he was due for a promotion. Either way, a man did not deserve to be judged so quickly. Not until she had a proper opportunity to learn more. So Molly Hathaway used her Boston charm to greet the other clerks and wait until Mr. Peter Bain decided they should go to his large house.

“We can see about the wedding afterwards,” he offered flippantly as they turned a corner. “Besides, it’ll be a good opportunity for you to meet Mam. She’s eager to meet you, you know.”

So many people, so many new places. Perhaps she should have aimed to sleep more on the train, Molly sighed. Hefting her heavier bag up higher, she tried to ignore the way Peter’s belly slipped out of his buttoned shirt as they walked. “Your mother? She lives in town? How lovely. I’d love to meet her as well.”

He shot her an odd look. They crossed the street after two men riding their horses went by. A dog, a scraggly little thing, had trailed behind but started towards Peter. Molly brightened and opened her mouth to mention the animal, but he spotted it as well. “Mutt! Get out of here!” And he threw a kick, catching the dog’s shoulder before it could dodge him.

Molly’s mouth dropped open, stunned at what he had just done. How could he be cruel? And in front of a lady? But he kept walking as though it were nothing. Rather, he glanced back at her as though she were strange. “Of course she lives in town. It’s her boarding house, after all. See? Told you it was large. Beauty, hm?” She opened her mouth in the attempt to say something, but for once, she was speechless. Fortunately, Peter didn’t notice as he stumbled up the steps. “Mam! She’s here. I brought the wife. Come and meet her!”

Glancing around at the old-fashioned parlor, Molly hesitantly set her bags down and loosened her traveling coat. It was a chilly day, but all that running around had left her forehead rather damp. Her head was a whirlwind, trying to understand what she’d set herself up for. The nerves began to trickle into her brain like ants on a mission. What if this was all a mistake?

Peter checked his pocket watch and mumbled something about the paper before stepping back outside. Molly still didn’t know what to say and watched him through the open door as he stepped out and bent over to grab his paper. Just as he straightened up, three children dashed by in the mud, running and shouting.

“You filth!” Peter suddenly screamed. It was so loud that Molly jumped. As he continued shouting, dread filled her body. This man was not who she thought he was. Instead he was a liar, a fraud, and worse that—he was cruel. It was not something she could live with for the rest of her life. Her heart hammered as she tried to understand what to do now.

This was all a terrible mistake. Even worse than the erroneous marriage her parents had attempted to force upon her. Leon had been dull, not a beast. Still, Molly Hathaway had been raised a proper Bostonian woman and accepted that she had been wrong. She would admit to anything to get out of this marriage.

Chapter Four

“It’s all done, Preacher McKey. The pews are clean, the floor is dusted, and I even gave the windows a washing. I think everyone’s going to enjoy seeing through the glass. Don’t you think? All those nice colors …” Mrs. O’Henry sighed happily before turning back to Adam.

He glanced up. Right, he’d forgotten she was there. “Yes, lovely colors. Thank you, Mrs. O’Henry, you know I appreciate your service. How are your children these days?” Maybe getting his nose out of a book for a minute would help him clear his thoughts.

Fixing up her bundle of brown hair, the woman shrugged. “They’re children. Always causing trouble and forever the apple of my eye. Oh, but I’m sure you know what that’s like now these days. You’ve had the Miller children for a while now, haven’t you? How are they? Are they good? Are you good?”

Adam had known from the beginning that the Miller children had no other options. They had no family to take care of them, they were too young to be on their own, and the rest of the town was still recovering. He knew the troubles that every other family around Prairie Sage was enduring, and he couldn’t ask anyone to care for the children. So just like that, he had become their guardian.

He just hadn’t expected it to be so trying. “Every day is a trial,” he managed at last. “And every day is a blessing. We must count what we are given and learn to appreciate it. They’re a handful, but I think they’re settling in well.”

That might have been a lie, but he didn’t want to think about it. He already had too much pressing on his mind. Mrs. O’Henry cut through his thoughts as she clucked her tongue. “You, sir, you need yourself a wife. Every preacher should have one, and every father should have one. So you’re in double need.”

He offered a tight smile. He’d heard that before. “Thank you for your suggestion, Mrs. O’Henry.”

Before Adam could invite her to return to her own family, she offered another comment. “I heard on the way here, pardon the gossip, there’s one in town looking to get hitched. A mail order bride, if you can believe it? Only, now she won’t take the man. Mr. Bain, it was, the clerk. Apparently they’re sorting it down at the courthouse. You could always put in your bid.”

His eyes skimmed over his notes for Sunday’s sermon. They were mostly just scattered thoughts at the moment. And not remotely interesting. But Mrs. O’Henry’s comment … it sparked just enough curiosity that he left the church to go learn more. At the very least, he reasoned, he could provide support to a suffering soul.

He arrived just as Peter Bain exited in huff, pushing past people on the street as he went. There was no other commotion at the courthouse, so Adam decided to step inside. There, he found the front desk of a man, busily writing notes. On the other side of the hall was a young woman with two bags and her face in her hands.

“I’m sorry for your misfortune,” Adam volunteered politely. Then he winced and tried to start again. “I’m the preacher here in Prairie Sage.”

The girl looked up. To his surprise, she had the largest brown eyes he’d ever seen in his entire life. Her honeyed curls framed a soft, pretty face that looked like she was about to cry. “Oh dear, is it already town gossip? That’s certainly embarrassing. Thank you, sir, for your words, but I’m afraid I won’t be amusement anymore. Not unless you can pay me for the laughs, or offer me a job?”

It wasn’t a real plan, and it had only come together with Mrs. O’Henry’s comment. All the same, Adam needed help with the three children he had taken in that kept him up at night and left him running around with no time to get anything done. He already had the belief that every man should have a wife, and he should be no different. There simply had never been an opportunity to look for one.

“I’d like to propose something else, actually,” Adam coughed. “Perhaps a marriage of convenience?”

The girl looked at him strangely. No, she was a woman with that expression. “I’ve already attempted that. I’m afraid I had to return the travel expenses and it’s left me with nothing else to give. You had best find a girl elsewhere. I assure you, there are plenty in Boston.”

“I have three children,” Adam pushed past her comments, not certain they were relevant. “That is, they’re not mine, but they are—I’ve recently come into them, you see. And I’m afraid it’s more than I expected and I could use the help. They need a mother, after all, perhaps more than a father. And if you are still interested in marrying a man out west, I would take you.”

The words were awkward off his tongue, but he had never attempted to propose to a woman before and wasn’t certain how it was done. The way she stared at him in response offered little promise.

Silence ebbed between them and Adam realized the secretary across the room had stopped writing his notes. When he glanced back, the man was staring at his pages but looked rather stiff. As though he were attempting to listen to a conversation that was none of his business.

So he turned back to the girl, only to realize he didn’t know her name.

What of his name? Adam cleared his throat. “My name is Adam McKey, by the way. And the children under my care are truly wonderful. Energetic and bright, all very cheerful. There’s Thad, he’s the eldest, then Rose. And then little Vera, she’s just three. I do what I can for them, but I’m afraid I can only do so much.” And he stopped. And he waited.

Chapter Five

She stared at him. Was this another marriage proposal? Molly remained seated in case she fell in a faint. But no, she was better than that. After a moment, she tucked a curl behind her ear and struggled to remain composed. He made for a rather nice preacher and didn’t look as old as Peter Bain. “I’m afraid I don’t have much experience with children.”

The stranger shared a tight smile. “Nor do I. But I could use help all the same.”

It was another offer, and somehow already more promising than the first one. He was a handsome man, after all. Tall with sandy-blond hair and dark eyes that promised sincerity. Besides, if he was a preacher, that meant he had to be a good man; honest and kind. She tried to pool her thoughts together to carefully think.

Except she knew she was running out of options. When Molly had announced her refusal to marry Peter, he’d been furious. She’d been almost certain he would beat her. Instead, he’d demanded his money back. When she’d refused, he’d dragged her to the judge, who had agreed that he deserved a refund. It was everything she had. If she wanted to go home, she would have to reach out to her parents. But if she did, Molly knew it would be upon the stipulation that she marry Leon Grady.

That thought alone made her want to faint. But she was better than that, Molly reminded herself again. Even out in the west of South Dakota, she knew better than to act silly. Only women without gall or self-respect would faint to get out of a strange or complicated situation.

My, Molly thought, it was still worthy of a scene to faint within. Yet it was too interesting to escape. Swallowing, she forced herself to stand. A Bostonian woman had manners, after all, and the least she could do was be polite. Clearing her throat, she fixed her coat to buy a minute of thought.

“Please allow me to spell it out from what I see,” Molly announced. “I’ve lost a potential suitor, but I’ve just gained one in the name of the town preacher. You’ve adopted three children, all of whom could benefit from having two parents instead of one. And upon knowing of my plight, you’ve come to rescue me to rescue yourself?”

The man hesitated, and it allowed her another opportunity to look him over. The man didn’t look much like a preacher, not from the ones she knew. He wasn’t even wearing spectacles. Rather, the man was large, with thick muscles she could see through his shirt. But he did have a nice shave, and she liked that about a man. Overall, the man looked to be rather decent, if a little humble.

But it was this, or it was Leon Grady.

“All right,” Molly Hathaway resolved with a nod and put out her hand for a shake. She knew exactly what she would end up with if it were Leon Grady. But at least in Prairie Sage, there was the promise of adventure. It seemed uncertain, but she had asked her God for a challenge and He was certainly bestowing one upon her. How could she turn it down? “I’ll marry you, preacher.”

She had already forgotten his name.

The man nodded, gave her another thoughtful glance, and assured her he was off to find the justice. Of course, if he simply disappeared and never returned, Molly wasn’t certain she would be surprised. Would she be upset? Only a little. Mostly because she still wouldn’t have a home to turn to, she mused to herself.

Finding a clean window, Molly fidgeted to find the best reflective surface. She still wanted to look her best for her wedding. She played with her curls, attempting to freshen them up from their bedraggled and dusty state. Then she pinched her cheeks and straightened her dress.

“Couldn’t wait to find another one, eh?”

Molly stopped at the sight of the judge—or rather, justice of the peace; she wasn’t certain of the difference—who had ordered she pay back Peter Bain. A frown climbed up before she could prevent it, and she wondered if she truly wanted to be wed by that man. “You left me with little choice, sir, after your immoral decision.”

The preacher glanced between them hesitantly. When the justice of the peace opened his mouth, her new fiancé coughed. “I would hate to spend more of your valuable time, Justice Plymouth. Shall we attend to the nuptials in the courtroom or in your office?”

Justice Plymouth was an overweight and hairy man with mustard stained on his collar. Molly hated mustard, and that was just the beginning of her troubles with him. Her hands balled into fists, more than ready to endure—and win—a battle of wits with the foolish man. But he said nothing as he studied her. “McKey, you’re certain this is what you want? The Lord says to help everyone, but certainly there’s another solution.”

The preacher—her preacher—shook his head and offered her a polite smile. “We have discussed this and come to agreeable terms. While there may not be love now, there is always room. The Lord asks us to give ourselves in our love for others, remember. And in the meantime, she would be the perfect helpmeet.”

“Exactly,” Molly responded, crossing her arms. She wasn’t entirely certain what he was talking about, but the words sounded positive. “Right here would be splendid for the fresh air at the door.” Her eyes narrowed.

The look the judge sent her informed her that yes, he wanted to continue the battle. But there was work to do, so he sighed instead. “Dave, you’ll be our witness. Pay attention, will you? And get out a fresh marriage certificate. Preacher McKey is settling down. About time, too, with them youngsters.”

Molly glanced at the preacher, McKey, who simply shrugged. A good man, she hoped, though a passive one. This marriage would be interesting. Taking a deep breath, she fixed her skirts one more time. She was marrying a complete stranger, only to relearn his given name was Adam while becoming a stepmother and settling in a strange new town.

He kissed her cheek at the end. It felt rather brotherly, but Molly found she preferred that instead of her lips. Certainly not to be done until they were much better acquainted, she thought. And now was the time for that. She had just become Molly McKey.

Chapter Six

The newlyweds left the courthouse, Adam carrying Molly’s bags as he pointed down the road. Her eyes scanned the large road, taking in the sight of the buildings. All but three were single-story buildings. Only a few of them named what they held outside. It truly was the west, she decided. She just hoped there was more of it.

“When the town became too large for their church,” Adam continued, in the hopes she was listening, “a second chapel was built. That is the one set atop the hill, see? The one with a spire.” It was the only building on the hill, but he wanted to be certain there was no missing it. “Anyways, the smaller church became unnecessary and unused, so it was turned into a home that was provided to me when I arrived. It’s on the end of the row here.”

“Lovely,” Molly mused, nodding her head before she’d even had a good look. Her eyes glanced down at her bags, wondering if he would preach to her that she had too many belongings. Wasn’t that what preachers did? They told everyone to be better and do better. Quite like her mother. “And the children? What are their names again?”

He didn’t blame her for having to ask again. Sometimes he still forgot and had to think about it before saying anything. Glancing at the girl—the woman; his wife—he offered a smile. Yet her eyes were soaking in the view, all of it except for him. That wasn’t something he was used to as a preacher, though as a man, he was. Very few actually considered a preacher for their own matrimonial affair. He pushed back the desire for attention and turned back towards the house.

“Thad, Rose, and Vera,” Adam answered. “They are nine, seven, and three.”

She considered this. “That is rather young. And how, quite frankly, did you become their guardian? Were they family?”

Shaking his head, he pulled them off to the stone path that led up to the steps of his house. It was a quaint building with a large garden he labored in daily. The Lord had blessed him to work well with the earth, so he always had plenty of vegetables for home and to share. However, it had continued to grow and he wondered if she might help him manage it now.

But first, he needed to focus. “No. Actually, there was a terrible outbreak during last harvest. Most of the town suffered from it through the winter and we lost good people. We think it was the influenza but aren’t certain. It’s gone now,” he added hastily, “but the children lost their father. The mother died in childbirth earlier. With the rest of the town still struggling to get back on its feet, well, I’m doing what I can.”

Yet he needed help now. They understood the words that went unsaid. Molly fixed her hair again, hoping her bonnet did not droop. She sniffed lightly as he opened the door for her and she stepped through.

It was a comely place. Far from what she had expected, coming from a large home where they’d always had servants on staff. Adam slipped around her when she stopped in the hall, and he wondered what she thought. Surely it was bigger than what the girl had expected for a home in the west. They had an attic, after all.

“Papa!”

They were pulled from their thoughts as a little bundle of brown hair danced over and wrapped herself around Adam. His mouth opened but he didn’t know what to do. Vera had done this before, grabbing his leg and refusing to let go, but it was hard to tell if she expected him to do anything.

Molly remembered doing that as a child herself, and a reluctant smile crept across her face. She watched Adam awkwardly close the door and nudge the child politely. But she wouldn’t move. “Well,” he cleared his throat. “Vera, this is Molly. She’s going to be your new mother. Vera? Where are your sister and your brother?”

Mrs. O’Henry came around the corner, wiping her hands on her apron. “Ah, so you took me up on my advice, then. Married yourself a girl. Good, good. Thad is washing up. He spilled a few eggs, I’m afraid. Rose is stirring the soup. Mrs. Mary O’Henry at your service,” she introduced herself to Molly.

The large woman looked cheerful though a bit ruddy. Still, she offered a kind smile. Molly nodded. “How do you do?”

“Ah, a fancy one,” Mrs. O’Henry beamed. “I’m doing mighty well. And it’s mighty good to have you here. On that, I’m afraid I had best be going, my preacher, sir. My own children will be wondering where I’ve gone off to, and they’ll be needing supervision. Will I see you all on the Sabbath?”

“Certainly,” Adam nodded. “And thank you for watching the children.”

The woman waved a hand in the air. “It’s the least I could do. I’ll be seeing you, dears.” And she let herself out the door.

Just like that, the newlyweds were on their own. Alone with a little girl glued to Adam’s leg. The adults glanced down and then up at each other. She wasn’t yet twenty, and he wasn’t yet thirty. Though neither of them said a word, they were wondering the same thoughts. What had they gotten themselves into?

Chapter Seven

Though Adam was prepared to be trapped with the weight of the girl around his ankle like the last few nights, Molly crouched down to poke the child. He opened his mouth, uncertain if that was the best choice. But she spoke up, so he waited, allowing his curiosity to win.

“Vera? Hello, Vera? Hello. I’m Molly,” she introduced herself. “Can you look at me? No? Well, I’m only curious what color of eyes you might have. You see, I’m fairly certain they are bright orange, but I could be wrong.”

There was a shake of the head, and he hesitated. But she continued. “No? They’re not yellow? Well then, I suppose that’s good. Do you think they might be purple?”

A giggle escaped. “No!”

Molly grinned. “My! Are you certain? Are you absolutely certain they aren’t purple? Because I think they might be. Now, give me a look, would you?”

The girl shook her head several times, the curls flapping against his pant leg. But after a minute, she opened one eye. “Blue. I have blue.”

Molly clapped. “They are blue! You are completely correct, my dear. Now you must also tell me, what color are my eyes?” She leaned forward and opened her eyes wide. “Hm?”

“Brown!” And just like that, Vera let go of Adam to cling to Molly. She wrapped her pudgy little arms around the woman’s neck, whose mouth opened in surprise. “You’re Mama?”

His new wife bit her lip and glanced up at him. They were in this together now. Her bags were in the corner, the marriage license safe in his pocket. He offered a shrug and took a step back. “I suppose I am,” Molly cleared her throat. “Is that acceptable by you, my dear?”

The two of them began to talk, and Adam was amazed by what she had just accomplished. He meant to step away to reach the other children and put her bags away. But something drew him in, preventing him from departing.

It was those eyes. They were more than brown, he decided, for they had flecks of precious gold within them. And when she looked at him, Adam found that they were soft and kind. There was something beautiful about her that he hadn’t noticed upon their first meeting.

Now, the truth enveloped him. She was lovely. Certainly, in the city, he supposed her nose might be too long and she was otherwise too tall. But in truth, her complexion was quite comely and the curls framing her face only emphasized the dimple on her left cheek. How she had wound up a mail order bride, Adam wasn’t certain he would ever know. But there they were, and there she was.

There was a stirring within his chest, an unfamiliar sensation that made his insides all uncomfortable. Distracted, Adam turned away and wondered what had come over him. Just because she was an attractive woman didn’t mean he needed to be attracted to her. Or should he be? They were married.

But it was a marriage of convenience, he reminded himself. And for that, he could have few expectations. The weight in his chest tightened, but Adam didn’t know what to do. He’d never courted a woman before, let alone been married to one. He was fairly certain that she was the first one he’d held hands with, and that had been for their wedding.

“I’ll put your things away,” he murmured, clearing his throat. Before the girls could protest, Adam snatched up her bags and hurried to his room. Their room. Of course she would be there with him now. Had he woken up that morning realizing there would be someone to join him that night, he might have tried harder to keep it tidy.

Hurriedly, Adam moved about, reorganizing the room. It was simple, with only a few pieces of furniture and several books. He’d need to adjust things now for Molly. She would be here as well, after all. Adam shook away the strange thoughts. They could talk about it later.

Leaving, he found Molly attempting to interact with the children. Vera clung to her, but Rose was silent and Thad had more questions than anything else to say. Adam watched them, trying to understand the family he had formed. It was odd, he decided, but Molly looked willing and was spunky. Perhaps this could work.

Supper was quiet as they gathered at the table to enjoy Mrs. O’Henry’s soup. Still in the habit, Adam led the cleanup while Molly helped Vera prepare for bed. Or rather, she watched and learned what Vera’s nightly patterns were and then sang her a lullaby.

“It’s late,” Adam realized when Molly joined him in the hall, and their eyes trailed towards the bedroom. He hesitated and led the way. After the door was closed, he glanced at her again to find just how tired she looked. She wouldn’t stop rubbing her hands together as her gaze drifted from him to the bed.

He swallowed. “The contingencies of a marriage, they are … expected in a typical situation, of course. But upon our, um, unique circumstances, I’d like to let you know that I don’t have … expectations. That is, only for the children. Those three children,” he stammered, feeling the heat crawling up his neck. “We shall share the bed as is appropriate, but … we don’t need to share anything else.”

Molly’s eyes opened wide. “Ah.” Her hands fell at her sides, no longer anxious. “Oh yes. Of course. That sounds … good. Yes, thank you. Then you’ll … you’ll turn …” She moved to her bags, unable to look at him. It took him a minute to realize she wanted to change privately. But Adam nodded and turned, praying silently as he waited until she was beneath the blankets.

The candle was blown out and he changed in the dark. Before climbing in, Adam hesitated. This didn’t feel right, something whispered to him. This wasn’t what a marriage was supposed to be. But he was resolved. He would be a decent man and good to his promise. Eventually, Adam tried to convince himself, they might change. That could be for another day.

Chapter Eight

She tried to remember the lessons about the kitchen. But Molly had never paid much attention. Cooking and baking were for the house servants, after all. What good would these skills and recipes do her as a Bostonian woman?

Right now, they would save her a lot of trouble. Now she was paying the price of her foolish nature. If only she could turn back time and learn from every one of her mistakes. However, then she might be leading a very different life, she supposed. And this one was quite interesting.

Even if she was potentially failing. Molly sniffed the pot a third time and a cloud of regret began to rain down. The first two days in Prairie Sage had been lovely. Adam had made time for her and the children as they’d sorted out the house and duties. But it was the third day, and yet again, she was in charge of supper, only to find something was terribly wrong.

Was it the cream or was it the cabbage? Molly added another log, hoping to stoke the fire and cook it more quickly. She had been distracted with the new dress Adam had bought for her, forgetting to start the food on time. Now she might be late, with spoiled food.

“What do you think, Vera?” She turned to the little girl who was clutching her pearls. Molly hadn’t brought much jewelry out, but she’d wanted to show Rose in the hopes of getting the girl to talk. It hadn’t worked, and once Vera had seen them, she wouldn’t let go. The girl had even slept with them.

In response to the question, Vera put the pearls in her mouth. “No!” Molly groaned, leaving the fireplace. “Please, Vera, don’t. You’ll ruin them. See?” She managed to tug them out of the mouth but not out of the girl’s hands. “Here, shine them for me?”

The girl clearly could not be unsupervised. She was still a baby. Though she knew mothers at her age, Molly was quickly realizing that nineteen years had not prepared her to be one. A lady, indeed. A mother, not at all. With a groan, Molly sat down.

She was ruining supper again. Vera wouldn’t leave the pearls alone. And Rose had hardly said a word. It had been less than a week and Molly was already terrible at motherhood. An unsettling knot formed in her stomach. She wished she knew what to do to fix supper. Fix Rose. Or perhaps she just wished she was back home. It was dull, but at least she knew what to expect. There weren’t people relying on her and being disappointed.

A knock at the door pulled Molly from her self-pitying. Rubbing her sticky hands on the apron, she left Vera on the table. At the door was Mrs. O’Henry with a basket.

“Good afternoon,” Molly offered, relieved to be out of the kitchen. “Mrs. O’Henry, how lovely to see you again. Would you like to come in?”

The woman waved a hand. “Oh, don’t you bother. I just wanted to bring you a fresh loaf of bread. Is this a bad time?” Then she sniffed the air. “Something smells rather burnt. Is everything all right?”

Burnt? How could something be burnt already? But Molly sniffed the air to find the ugly stench of burning food wafting through the house. Dismayed, she turned and could see a tinge of smoke drifting into the hallway.

“Goodness gracious!” There was no time for decorum as she rushed back. Vera was crying, the pearls were on the floor, and the room was smoky. She picked up the girl, hoping that would help, and then glanced at the pot. The soup had boiled over and was flooding the fireplace. Her heart pattered anxiously.

“Dear, get her out of here!” Mrs. O’Henry appeared. She put the basket down and waved her arms. “Put Vera elsewhere and open all the windows and doors. We need to get the smoke out!”

By the time Adam returned with the older children from school, there was only the faintest smell in the air. Mrs. O’Henry was there, assisting with roasted potatoes, and reminding Molly of everything she was already meant to know. Except her eyes still watered and her new dress, so simple and plain, smelled like burned soup.

“Is everything all right?” Adam frowned as Vera ran over to hug his leg.

Molly didn’t want to tell him that, yet again, she’d nearly burned the church house down and everyone with it. Sighing, she glanced at Mrs. O’Henry who offered a sympathetic smile. “Yes, it’s fine. Mrs. O’Henry was simply kind enough to come assist me in the kitchen this evening. It would seem I still lack some talent.”

He didn’t respond to her vague statement, but Molly could see his eyes scouring the place carefully. The frustration at her foolish and impulsive nature continued to grow. She simply didn’t know how to be happy with what she had. In Boston, all the parties and dancing were dull. Here, she couldn’t do anything right.

“I’m sorry,” she mumbled when Mrs. O’Henry finally left and she’d dished out the plain supper. “I-I’m not hungry. I think I’ll lie down.” Molly turned away before Adam could protest Fortunately, he said nothing, and she collapsed on the bed, wondering what to do with herself.

Chapter Nine

On Saturday, Adam found that he didn’t need to prepare much for Sunday. The church was clean, his sermon was prepared, and his garden was thriving. He checked on the building, stopped by two families’ homes to see how they were faring, and returned home.

It hadn’t even been a week, but his house was a different place. The church building still stood proud with its two front doors and large windows. Inside, though, it was a new world. He fixed his shirt and stepped in to hear loud laughter. Adam wandered down the hall curiously to find a party of four on the girls’ bed where the three children were tickling Molly.

“Oh, you scoundrels!” She giggled, her curls spilling everywhere. Though she poked the children, most of the laughter was at her expense. But she didn’t seem to mind. Somehow, even Rose had joined the fun. Adam watched, wondering how she’d managed to make that happen. “All right! All right! Your turn. Who’s first?” Molly escaped the children, standing up as she wiggled her fingers at them.

Adam stood back to watch them play until everyone was too exhausted to move. Taking the opportunity to relax and prepare for the Sabbath, they read for a while, cleaned for a bit, and took a walk together. On their return home, Adam directed them on another route and to Molly’s surprise, they stopped by the O’Henry home so the three children could interact with their friends.

“Just for a while,” Adam hesitated as they disappeared in the house. Turning to Molly, he tried to read her gaze. Though he hadn’t run the idea by her, they had both made mention before of wanting some time to talk. “I thought we could have some time together.”

Molly fixed her shawl and then clasped her hands in front. “Ah yes. I suppose that might be pleasant. We haven’t had much time to … talk. I know nothing about you, after all.”

He nodded. “Exactly. Albeit, there’s not much to say. What would you like to know?”

She smiled so brightly that he had the pleasure of seeing her dimple. “Oh, I don’t know. Tell me, I suppose, did you always want to be a preacher?”

After gesturing towards a path near the river, Adam considered her question. “Part of me always wanted that life, I think. The idea of peace and quiet attracted me. I grew up with five siblings, you see, in New York. From what I recall, they’re still there. Our parents passed away and I stayed until I was eighteen, wanting to head west. We were all rather independent, you see. I became a cowboy and worked on several ranches. But I kept coming back to church and after a while, I wanted to spend my time helping others come closer to God. I wound up here.”

The turn they took led to a grove of trees that waved in the wind. Nearby, they heard the river coursing, and the plains were just up ahead. It was a stunning view, and he hoped she thought so, too.

“I think that sounds lovely,” Molly said finally. “I had no idea … you don’t seem like a man from the city, you know. There’s this … Somehow, you seem as if you’ve always been here. Does that make sense?” She slowed down to a stop as she concentrated hard on a thought.

Though she opened her mouth twice more, she couldn’t seem to find the words. Adam glanced around before sidling up in front of her, ready to take whatever she gave him. She’d had an exciting morning, but now she looked so sober he was afraid she might cry. “It’s like you belong here.”

A niggling feeling made its way into his chest again. Warmth spread throughout his body as he studied her thoughtfully. She was trying so hard to do the right thing. From waking early to tend to the children to ensuring everything was cleaned up by the end of the day. Though she was still learning, he’d noticed the attachments made with the children.

“I suppose,” he murmured. “I could belong here. And you?” The question made him inhale deeply and hold it, wondering what she might say. Most of Molly’s stories included something about Boston and he’d watched her mind wander. Mrs. O’Henry has told him about the mishaps. She tried, but it didn’t always work. Though he felt excited at the prospect of spending a lifetime with Molly, there was a dark cloud in his mind reminding him that she’d had no other choice but to accept his offer.

Slowly, she looked up at him through her eyelashes. Her eyes were bright and clear, those cheeks soft and pink. Molly was beautiful, inside and out. His stomach clenched at the idea of losing her as he looked for ways to make her stay.

But in that moment, all he could think about were how pretty her lips looked. They were pink and plump and Adam had never wanted to kiss a girl more. When they locked gazes, she drew him like bait on a fishing line. Breathless, Adam found himself slowly leaning in to reach her.

Molly disappeared, stepping out of reach as she ducked her head. When she cleared her throat, Adam came to his senses. He jerked back and his face flushed. None of that had been part of the plan.

Chapter Ten

Taking a deep breath, Molly stepped through the large doors. She could hear Rose and Thad behind her as Vera clung to her skirts. This was another dress as well, for Adam had helped her purchase three new gowns that were better suited to her life in Prairie Sage. It was soft, she was pleasantly surprised to find, though simpler than anything in Boston.

Mrs. O’Henry gave her a wink as she passed them down the aisle. Adam had left early for the chapel that morning to practice the sermon and welcome everyone. After a moment of searching, she found him talking to an elderly couple. When he glanced up and caught her gaze, he offered her a warm smile that she returned with a shy grin.

Though she had turned away from his kiss last night, Molly hadn’t stopped regretting it. Several boys had attempted to kiss her in the past and she had deemed only a handful of them worthy. The more she considered it now, none but Adam appeared to be of any value. Yet somehow she’d had the nerve to turn away. What was wrong with her?

“Let’s sit here.” Rose pointed to a particular pew. It was nothing extraordinary besides being empty. The third row from the front, Molly didn’t mind, and she wasn’t about to turn Rose down when the girl was finally talking to her.

“I love it,” Molly assured her and led the way. It took their party a minute to decide how they wanted to sit. She ended up with Thad on her left, Rose on her right, and Vera in her lap. For a few minutes, they whispered, trying to guess what Adam might address in his Sunday talk.

Thad guessed right and Molly nudged him once church began. Adam’s solemn voice carried through the room, though she knew it had to be some sort of miracle because he didn’t have to shout or yell. She was grateful her prior fears were erased. Her eyes followed his movements as he spoke passionately and kindly. The man was still handsome, still smart, and there was something about him that she couldn’t ignore.

He spoke about love. Through Bible verses and his own words, he shared scripture stories and tender words of the Lord. She’d never heard such a sermon. The more he spoke, the more Molly decided her words to him the other night had indeed been true.

Adam might not have always lived here, but he did now, and most likely he always would. He belonged here now. Those words had sounded silly, but now she saw them for what they were. Molly had never seen anyone so connected with their home and community.

How had he done it? The adventures she had yearned for were continuously evolving. She knew now that all of her ideas were little more than false magic tricks. What he had here was real. And she wanted it, she realized. She wanted that type of love in her life, that hope and connection.

What’s more, Molly marveled as she watched him pause to hand his handkerchief to a child who had sneezed, she wanted him. Her life here wouldn’t mean much without Adam. What if she came to love him? What if he came to love her? She bit her lip, not even noticing as Vera played with her hair, and wondered if that would ever be possible.

Adam returned to his sermon after offering the Lyle boy his handkerchief, diving into Corinthians. Some of those passages were his favorites, and he had the sudden urge to share them with Molly. Of course, he told himself, he was going to do just that. With Molly and the entire congregation.

When he looked out, he spotted her immediately. Adam couldn’t miss her, not with the way her pretty bonnet framed her face. He stammered through the verse even though he had it memorized because he knew she was watching him. Clearing his throat, he pressed on, wondering again why he had chosen this topic. Or rather, why the Lord had suggested it.

He could feel the thumping in his heart. After last night, Adam wasn’t so foolish that he couldn’t tell what his insides were telling him. Of course Molly was beautiful. She was pretty and compassionate and clever. Even as she failed, she was ready to pick herself up again, to study cookbooks carefully and accept suggestions the neighborhood sent her way about cooking and laundry. The more he learned of Molly, the more his heart yearned for her.

Still, he tried to be practical. Fairy tales weren’t real, after all, and this was still a strange world to Molly. Asking a stunning woman from Boston to live in the middle of nowhere to raise children that weren’t hers was asking for a lot. As a preacher, he could only provide her with so much. Most everything he had came from donations, after all. She wouldn’t have any more pearls than those she already owned, and she would never be rich here with him.

Expecting her to stay was foolish and unkind. So Adam continued to preach of love. Love was good, after all. Even if it sometimes brought danger. The more he thought about it, the more he worked to guard his heart from Molly. If she left, she could end up taking his heart with her. A lump formed in his throat and he said a silent prayer.

Chapter Eleven

By the time the sun rose, Molly was wide awake. She’d spent the night attempting to rest, managing to grow groggy, but it was difficult to decipher whether or not any sleep had come her way. With a sigh, she slipped out from under the blankets and dressed before leaving. Spring finally felt like it had arrived, and she didn’t need a shawl as she stepped out of the house to search for their chickens’ eggs for breakfast.

She couldn’t help but move slower, though, tired as she was. Reliving the night before, Molly wondered why she needed to be the way that she was. After one month, she still couldn’t let go of Boston. Rose had asked her at supper about the city, and Molly had instantly shared everything. She’d even called it home.

“Why anyone ever tolerates me,” she mused as she inspected an egg, “I shall never know.” After she stifled yet another yawn, Molly took her basket around the rest of the chicken coop.

Once in the kitchen, Molly sorted through her papers and carefully started to obey the scribbled instructions on preparing scrambled eggs. Mrs. O’Henry had assured her it was a simple dish, but she’d managed to ruin most things without clear instructions. As she started on breakfast, Molly said another silent prayer to God, thanking him for women like Mrs. O’Henry and her sister, Mrs. Lyle.

In the last couple of weeks, both women had come to her rescue. For three days a week, they or another friend would show up to teach her not only how to prepare a new dish, but how to properly organize and clean the house. It was a lot to know, but Molly was loving every minute. The two sisters and their friends were patient and she was slowly learning to see that everything was its own adventure.

“Carefully crack the eggshell, dropping only the yolk in the pan,” Molly mumbled to herself as she concentrated. She had vowed to fix her mistakes and become a good wife and decent mother. Now that she had the help, she was determined to improve. It was this, she had convinced herself, that would help her show how much she loved her family.

Breakfast went well, but it was only after Adam left to take the children to the schoolhouse that she recalled she had not prepared their midday meals. Molly hurriedly prepared sandwiches and grabbing Vera, headed out. There had been enough mishaps, and she didn’t want to become the focal point of the town gossip. On top of the burned meals, she’d let them play in a pond with leeches and took them around town running errands when she forgot about school.

“I can’t believe I forgot this as well,” Molly mumbled as they headed down the street. She squinted, wondering if they were still near. The schoolhouse was on the other side of town and they had only just left. “I hope this teaches me my lesson, then. Come along, Vera. Let’s make an adventure of this.”

It would be best if she could catch the children before their class started, but the distance only seemed to grow. But the children, she reminded herself, and urged Vera forward. The little girl hummed and skipped, pointing out flowers and people as they passed.

“And Missus Lyle,” she chimed, using her free hand to wave. “Hi! Hi!”

The name caught Molly’s attention and she glanced up to find the woman passing along the street in an even bigger hurry. Her eyes widened as she offered a strained smile. “Good morning, ma’am. How is—”

“Oh! Molly, what a lovely sight.” Mrs. Lyle changed paths and shifted her basket. There was another package hanging over her shoulder. Her hair was windswept and her eyes were large. “My dear, I could certainly use your help. I’m in the middle of helping Mrs. Ulch. Do you know Susan? Her child is on its way, but it’s rough going with the five children around. They were too young to walk to school alone, and then I just—You listen well. Do you have time to spare?”

Molly’s mouth dropped open. The midwife was asking for her help? Just the thought of it made her stomach churn. “Are you certain? Don’t you have someone—Rachel?—who helps?”

“She’s gone east to visit her family.” Mrs. Lyle shook her head impatiently, eyes already wandering. “Please, if you can manage it, I could use you. You’re good with children, and they are bouncing everywhere. It’s the blue-shuttered house down here on the right. Just for an afternoon, that’s all.” She gestured to the bags she carried. “I might be there for days at this rate.”

Clapping her mouth shut, Molly nodded. “Then yes, of course. After everything you’ve done—I’ll send off Vera and come straight your way. Hurry now, and I’ll see you soon.” She let the woman leave on her way. The woman looked frazzled, and now that nervous energy enveloped her as well.

Vera had let go of her hand to follow a cat in the street. Molly hitched up her skirts and hurried over, grasping the child’s hand. “We have to hurry now,” she informed the child. “Do you think you could run?”

“A race!” The child laughed and nodded before heading off. She grasped her doll as she went, her little feet careful on the path. Molly marveled at the child for only a moment before hurrying after her. She could feel her heart hammering inside as she caught up with Vera and they hurried to the schoolhouse.

“Thad! Thad, dear,” Molly caught him and handed over the lunches. “Take this one to Rose, would you? Be a good lad, thank you. Now, this is very important,” she added before he could turn back. Pulling a curl away from her face, she gave him a stern look. “I need you to go to the neighbor’s house after school. Joy will look after you.”

He furrowed his brow. “Joy? Why?”

She kissed his forehead. “There will be time for answers later. Please, just make sure you and Rose go. I’m taking Vera now. Vera, wave farewell to your brother.” The plan had come to mind on their race. It meant a lot of walking and still hoping that Joy would be available to care for the children, but Molly prayed hard and trusted the Lord to help them.

The McKinnons were a lovely family with two children, Devon and Joy. Joy was the youngest at fifteen, now taking up seamstress projects with her mother. There had been plenty of occasions in the past where she had watched the children, from what Adam had told her. The O’Henry house was too far, but surely Joy would be available.

Thankfully, the girl was there and welcomed Vera with wide arms. “Thank you,” Molly gave the girl a kiss on the cheek. “I do appreciate it. And I’ve already spoken to Thad, who will come here with Rose. I … yes. Thank you mightily.” She offered a short nod and hurried down the next lane to find the house with the blue shutters.

Chapter Twelve

Adam returned to an empty house. It was a rather strange sensation. There had been moments where the children were out of the house and he had a moment to himself. But then Molly had joined him, and there was always movement and sound. He thought it would be a calming sensation, but he found that to be false.

Rather, his gut clenched and he couldn’t help himself from searching for clues to where his family might be. Had Molly said she was taking them anywhere? Surely the children were out of school at this point. It was suppertime.

When Adam stepped out back to check on the animals, he heard familiar laughter. It took him another minute to locate them, finding Rose and Vera spinning together in the neighbor’s yard. Relief ebbed through him as he made his way over. Vera was the first to notice and dropped everything to come hug his leg.

“Hullo,” she sang sweetly, a patch of dirt on her cheek.

He rubbed it off. “Hullo, my sweet. Rose,” he glanced at the older girl and smiled. “Whatever are you two up to over here?”

The door opened to reveal Joy. She passed through the doorway with Thad trailing behind. “Good evening, sir, how do you do?”

Adam nodded at the young girl. “And a good evening to you, Joy McKinnon. Everything is well. I’m sorry, but my children seem to have tackled your grass.” He glanced at the grass stains on the ends of their dresses. “Is Molly inside?” He supposed he might get answers from her.

Besides, he wanted them to talk. They’d danced around enough words and feelings lately that he thought they both deserved clarity. He had spent all day preparing himself for the conversation, so he felt ready. The words bubbled at the brim of his thoughts and he wanted to free them. All he needed was Molly and a few minutes.

“Oh.” Joy glanced at the children. “I’m afraid I don’t know. She left in a hurry after—you see, she asked me to watch the children. She dropped Vera off, but she didn’t tell me where she was going.”

He blinked. She’d left? Where? The fears trickled down his spine from their hidden ledge, reminding him not to have any expectations. Maybe she was done. Maybe she was ready to go back to Boston. She had certainly spoken of it enough. He swallowed and glanced at the children, who turned to him. It had taken him months for them to trust him. Then they’d been so ready to accept Molly because he …

“She … Thad?” Adam cleared his throat. “Thad, did she tell you?”

Thad glanced at Rose and shrugged. “She brought our lunches to school and said to come see Joy after. She had Vera, but then she left. Why? Where’s Molly? I mean, Mama? Isn’t she with you?”

“Well, I’m sure she’s … around somewhere. But we’ll worry later,” Adam assured them. “Let’s return to the house now. We’ve used up enough of Joy’s time. Joy, thank you again. We’ll see you later.”

“Bye!” She waved cheerfully.

Adam guided the children back into the house. “Thad, feed the horse, will you?” He rubbed his neck. If Molly hadn’t been home all day, what needed to be done? And he didn’t want the children to worry or see him worrying. “Rose, collect some cabbage, will you? Enough for us and Joy. Take Vera with you.”

Once the children were made busy, he went to his room—their room—realizing he hadn’t searched there. If she had left, wouldn’t she take her things? A spark of hope emerged as he opened the wardrobe and found it full. If he counted right, there was only one gown missing and that was the one she would be wearing. Not that there was much here she might take to Boston, however. The fancy dresses from Boston were too fancy for South Dakota, and most of them had been ruined in one mishap or another. He’d purchased some to make her life easier, but Adam knew she was used to lovelier things. Perhaps, then, she had not wanted to take anything with her.

Swallowing hard, Adam sat down and rubbed his face. He had to think.

The feelings inside his chest stormed about, telling him to give up and to chase her at the same time. It was hard to follow any of his thoughts, worried they were too emotional or too practical. He had the children to think of. But what was he to tell them? If she was gone, then the children … They were learning what it was like to have a mother again.

“Where’s Mama?” Rose struck up as they sat down to supper. He glanced up in surprise, wondering how it came to be that the quietest and most stubborn child wanted Molly. Then all three children turned to him expectantly, waiting for an answer.

If only he had one. Smiling tightly, he glanced at the sparse meal and then back at the children. “Let us include her in our prayer. Who shall say it this evening?”

Thad volunteered. “Lord our God, we thank you at this table for your blessings and your school and your church and your food. Thank you for giving it to us. Thank you for Papa and Mama. Bless Papa for his sermon and bless Mama to come home safely. And bless my sisters that they are nice. Amen.”

“Amen.”

The four of them ate quietly. When he glanced outside, he found the sun had set and it was dark. If Molly was still in town, surely she would have returned by now. Adam tried to smile for the children and prepare for the worst.

He had done what he could in providing a safe and comfortable home. It wasn’t much compared to a city life. As Adam crept into his bed, now too empty to sleep peacefully, he let out a deep sigh. With it went the last of his hope. Before he drifted off to sleep, he just prayed she was safe and well.

Chapter Thirteen

Molly blinked several times, rubbing her eyes. Had she dozed off? She rubbed her face and realized she was at an unfamiliar kitchen table with five children watching her. That was two more than she was used to.

“You started to snore,” the boy next to her whispered. “Marie poked you.”

“Oh?” she mused and glanced out the window. The sun was up. She yawned and shook her head. Yes, it was coming back to her. Grogginess swept over her shoulders, but she managed to pull the memories up. She was at the Ulch house. Down the hall, Susan was with Mrs. Lyle trying to birth her sixth child.

Yesterday had been easy enough, amusing the children and preparing supper. But then she’d stayed up the night with the other two women to offer support, and now she was meant to get through another day. Molly was simply glad she was sitting down.

“I’m afraid I’m rather silly,” she mumbled after another yawn and managed a grin to the children watching her. “My sincerest apologies! Now don’t allow me to distract you. Eat up, eat up. We’re getting you to school, remember?”

Marie groaned. “But it’s Saturday!”

“Is it?” Molly asked in surprise. “Are you absolutely certain?”

As the eldest, Marie was the most talkative. And yet she was hardly Thad’s age. Marie nodded furiously. “Cross my heart, ma’am.”

She tsked. “Well, then I suppose we must spend the day playing games. Do I hear any naysayers?” Everyone shook their heads as she looked at them seriously, wishing the sleep away from her eyes. “Excellent. Eat up, and once we’ve tidied the kitchen, we shall have our first adventure!”

Quickly, the children obeyed. Too quickly, Molly feared, for she needed to find something to amuse them. She took two more spoonfuls of her oatmeal and then stepped away to check on the women.

Mrs. Lyle had Susan in a new position since the child was a breech. They didn’t want to start pushing until it was ready. Molly’s stomach tightened nervously for them. She knew, as a woman and a wife, she should have children. And she did want children, she’d recently realized. Adam was a wonderful man and a good husband. Molly wasn’t sure how she’d talk to him about that, but she realized she could worry about that later.

“Good morning,” she whispered. “Is there anything I can do to help?”

The midwife waved an arm. “No, thank you. Well, actually, could you bring us some breakfast? Susan’s going to need more energy. We’ve nearly got the child sorted and she should be able to push soon.” Susan only groaned, but Molly thought it sounded like she was in agreement.

She brought food and returned to the children, finding new games to play with them and distract them from the mother’s occasional shouts. Molly knew there was only so much she could do to help in this type of situation, so she kept the children amused until the child was born. Susan had a little boy, big, with healthy lungs of his own.

“You did wonderfully,” Mrs. Lyle assured her afterwards. “Your help was very appreciated. But we’ve kept you long enough, and I know you didn’t expect to be here forever. You’re asleep on your feet, Molly, so you’d best get home. Your husband will be expecting you.”

Her husband. It was still strange to hear; stranger to think. But lately it made her stomach flutter and brought a smile to her face. Molly wanted to ask if she was certain, but the woman gave her a nod to the door. So she kissed the older woman’s cheek and hurried off.

Just the thought of seeing her children and husband brought a spark of joy that spread through her body. It made her feel warm and excited to hug them again. Though it had only been a day, she felt like she’d been gone forever. Oh, she was most certainly blessed. Only in spending time away had she realized how fortunate she was.

Molly had wanted an adventure. She’d thought she’d find it in the exciting world of the west. She’d expected large thrills and wild excitement. She had not expected to be where she was now. Yet Molly couldn’t be happier, she realized. Every day was a new adventure. Learning to cook, playing with the children—every moment was new and exciting for her. It felt silly that this little town and the little family had been what she really wanted all along. But if that was the case, she didn’t mind being silly.

With a skip in her step, Molly made it home. She sighed happily and pulled open the door, wondering what everyone might be up to this Saturday afternoon. Perhaps she could take them on a picnic, she mused, or a walk along the river. Or perhaps a nap in the sun, she decided. A moment’s rest sounded blissful.

The house was quiet. Tall ceilings towered over, a constant reminder of how small she was. Their home’s architecture was truly humbling, especially in the silence. Through the rooms she went, wondering where everyone went. When she opened the door to her bedroom, she found it tidier than she had left it. She nearly collapsed there on the bed. Just the sight of it reminded her limbs of their weariness.

“In a moment,” she yawned. Molly stretched and shrugged her shoulders, trying to roll the exhaustion away. Just one look at the children, and then she’d settle down. That’s all. She trailed a hand against the wall as she reached the back door, opening it wide as the sun shined in her face. “Oh gracious.”

It took a minute to adjust to the brightness, blinking several times before she found her family. The wind carried their voices and Molly leaned against the door for support. She was certain she looked a mess in her wrinkled clothes and unbundled curls. But just seeing the children playing with their hoops brought a smile to her face. And watching from the orange tree, she found Adam.

The man looked tired, his shoulders slumped. Something must be wrong. Before she could call to him, however, Adam must have felt her gaze. He jerked his head up, looked around and did a double take when he saw her.

“Molly? Molly!” He hurried over with wide eyes and a breathless smile. When he reached her on the steps, he stretched out his arms and enveloped her within them. Stunned, she wondered what had happened to cause this embrace. His breath ruffled her hair as he gave her a tight squeeze. Just as she was discovering he smelled like soap and fresh hay, he pulled away. “Molly, you’re …” Adam’s gaze searched hers.

Self-conscious, she touched her hair and attempted to stand straight. But the blush spreading across her cheeks was something she could do nothing to fix. “A bit of a dust cloud and a rat’s nest, I know. Sorry I’m back so late. I wasn’t sure … what is it?” Molly furrowed her brow at the emotions across his face. “What’s wrong, Adam?”

“We-we didn’t,” he stammered, “nothing. But … where have you been?”

Molly’s mouth opened, but the question had caught her by surprise. Only then did she realize, thinking back, that she had never mentioned where she was going. The children had been taken care of, and then she had disappeared. The blush turned into a deeper form of embarrassment and horror. The embrace, then, was because he had worried she wouldn’t return.

Chapter Fourteen

He searched her gaze, trying to understand. While he was grateful she was whole and well, Adam didn’t know what had happened since yesterday morning. He touched her cheek delicately as though worried she were fragile.

Her hand covered his as two tears escaped. His thumb wiped them away, wishing they wouldn’t tarnish her sweet face. “Oh, Adam,” she breathed. “I’m sorry. I’m so, so terribly sorry. My dear, I—I didn’t go anywhere. I was right here. I mean …” Swallowing hard, she looked up at him through heavy-lidded eyes. “Mrs. Lyle needed help.

“Mrs. Ulrich was in labor and the children needed supervision. I went to help them. Though it was only supposed to be the afternoon, they needed help through the night when the babe didn’t come. I stayed until it was over. I didn’t think … I swear, I didn’t mean to …”

The words he had wanted to tell her the other day came to mind. There was so much he wanted to tell her, but his tongue felt heavy. Just the relief flooding over him was so thick he could hardly think straight. “I thought you left. You speak of Boston so often …”

She shook her head hurriedly, curls bouncing. “Because it’s the only place I’ve known, the only place with memories. I didn’t mean to give you any ideas. I mean, at the beginning, I thought I should have never come. But how could I leave? Adam, I have the children, I have …”

“Me,” he nodded, his gaze never leaving hers. “You have me.”

That was when she gave him that irresistible smile of hers. Her dimple appeared, and he felt like the luckiest man in the world. Adam marveled at the speed of his beating heart and the warmth that emanated from his soul. He hadn’t been certain they would reach this point, nor had he been certain he would have an opportunity for a family such as theirs. It was strange, he could admit, and out of the ordinary. But it worked for them.

“I do, don’t I?” Molly sighed sweetly as she pulled his hand off her face and wrapped both of her hands around it. Immediately, he followed, adding his other hand on top. She was soft and warm as she gave him a squeeze. “And you have me, Adam.”

Yet he still needed those words said. Just for a final reassurance. “So you’ll stay?”

She nodded. “I’ll stay for as long as you’ll have me. After all, I have a life here. I have you and Thad and Rose and Vera. All I wanted was an adventure, Adam, and I found it with you.” Molly licked her lips as she took a step closer. “We could even—” Her voice was low as she started to say something.

“Mama!” Adam jumped, so caught up in the moment he had forgotten they weren’t alone. The children noticed she had returned. Vera was the quickest as she rushed over, hugging the woman at her skirts. “I missed you!”

Thad came next, his eyes bright as he looked back and forth between Adam and Molly. “We were wondering where you were. Adam—Papa—didn’t know when you would come home. Where were you? Why were you gone so long? You’re not leaving again, are you?”

“Of course she’s not,” Rose retorted for Molly, but then hesitated. “You’re not, are you?”

Molly shot Adam a look before crouching down. “Nothing in the world could possibly pull me away from any of you darlings. You should know that by now. No, I wasn’t far. I was with Susan Ulrich and her children. You know Marie, don’t you? And Danny? I was with them because they needed help.”

“We need help.” Vera tugged on her dress.

Nodding, Molly scooped the girl in her arms for a twirl and a kiss on the cheek. “Darling, I promise I am here for you. For all of you. Next time, I’ll tell you where I am.

Thad shrugged. “I like Danny. Maybe we could go with you next time!”

It wasn’t exactly the point Molly was aiming for, Adam knew, but she grinned and ruffled his hair. “Maybe. But let’s not think about that next time, shall we? Let’s see about our own fun. Is anyone going to allow me to join in the splendid game of hoops or not?”

Always the leader, Rose nodded eagerly. “Please!”

Adam raised a hand, though, his gaze never leaving Molly. “Just a moment. I want to talk to her first, and then she’ll play with you,” he added to reassure the children. Leaning over, he took Vera carefully from Molly, who gave him a curious look that was interrupted by a large yawn, and set the girl down.

“You can have my hoop,” Rose offered before grabbing her sister and skipping off. Not to be left on his own, Thad hurried after them, and then Adam was alone with Molly.

His heart skipped a beat as he considered the young woman. She wasn’t yet twenty, but she was wise beyond her years. It was incredible the bond she had formed with the children, much more quickly than he had managed, and beautiful the way she accepted her life here. He just hoped that some of it was because of him as well.

Realizing he needed to say something, Adam took a deep breath and cleared his throat. Then he rubbed his neck and straightened his shirt. The words he’d had in mind earlier now evaded him, leaving him stumbling in the dark with Molly. “I just wanted to … you said—well, you were going to say … something?”

Molly nodded slowly, and he could see the thought coming back to her. She gave him a small, shy smile. There was hardly any space between them. “Yes,” Molly said, physically wavering so that he put a hand on her arm to steady her. “Sorry, yes. I—well, perhaps this isn’t the proper time. I’ve hardly slept, and I don’t really know what I’m saying anymore, and my thoughts are a ghastly jumble of nonsense inside my head.”

“Tell me anyways?” Adam invited hopefully.

She blinked and dropped her gaze for a second, just long enough for the hope inside his chest to lunge. Was it a sign she loved her life but not him? Or was she too shy to say anything? She was already more forward than any woman he knew, but he still never knew what to expect with Molly.

“I was … I was only thinking,” Molly spoke in such a quiet whisper he had to strain to hear her, “that we could … well, you see. While I was away, it got me thinking about our little family and how—how special we are. Only, something’s been missing, and I wasn’t certain how to address it. All of this is so new to me, you know. South Dakota, being a mother, running a house … I haven’t had the opportunity to be a wife, nor you a husband. And I simply wanted to inquire as to see if you’ve, perhaps, ever wanted to reconsider our original arrangement …” She trailed off, inching around an idea she was too shy to put into words.

But he wasn’t a fool. A wide grin stretched across his face so big that it hurt. Adam didn’t care. He heard what she didn’t say and realized she felt the same as he did. Just as she stumbled through her words with a sheepish smile, his heart leapt for joy. At that point, he could no longer just stand there.

“I love you too,” he promised her and pulled her in for a kiss. It was their first kiss, and already he couldn’t wait for a second, a third, and so on. He grinned as Molly giggled, wrapping her arms around his neck to pull him closer. She was soft, she was warm, and she was never going to leave them. Nearby, they could hear the children shouting and laughing. The turn of events was unprecedented but, Adam decided, not unpleasurable. He could hardly wait for what might come next for their little family.

The End