Blessed Beginnings (Hunter's Ridge Book 4) (5 page)

"Yes, Papa," Lucy said, accepting the nipple of the bottle as he pressed it between her lips.

"Do you understand as well, Louisa?" Lucas asked, once again turning his gaze to the other rocker.

"Yes, Uncle Lucas," Louisa assured him and then also began to suckle her bottle. As Molly straightened up the changing table and bench, washing and returning thermometers to crocks, and placing the jar of arnica cream in its place on the shelf beneath the changing table, the men rocked back and forth in perfect synchronization. The women who had chosen to live their lives in the dual roles of both wives and Little ones to their husbands/papas drank their milk, eyes closing as they drifted into sleep.

After placing the girls into their cribs, stuffies tucked into arms, pacifiers pressed into sweet mouths, and kisses dropped onto blonde curls, the three others left the room. Out in the hall, Edward patted his best friend on the shoulder.

"Don't fret. Remember, we are constantly telling our girls the importance of honesty as well as open communication. I know it is a bit of a shock to you since Ettie is your sister, but—"

"No," Lucas countered. "To be honest, I have to say it is actually a bit of a surprise only because neither Bea nor Franny have ever shown an inclination to follow this dynamic. After all, it was not a secret that our mother was a remarkable woman who managed to be a Lady out in society, a loving mum to four children, and yet was a Little one to our father. I suppose that instead of being shocked, I should be grateful that if Ettie does decide she wishes to be a special little one to her husband as well as his wife, she will go into the lifestyle with her eyes open and at least basic knowledge of what she might expect. That's an advantage that most of those women making this choice aren't given."

"Not unless they spend a few months under Eleanor's tutelage, that is," Edward added.

"I know it is not my place, sirs, but having spent time with both of your girls and witnessing the love you all share, I must say that Ettie could do far worse," Molly offered.

Lucas nodded. "Thank you. That helps, as well. I'd far rather see her happy in whatever role she takes than to see her with a man who treats her badly. I made a mistake in not speaking to Franny when there were signs she was so unhappy. My sisters are going to be making choices they will live with for the remainder of their lives. I want them to be as happy as I am. If that means I must adjust my expectations for Ettie, I will do so. I have no wish to make the same error I did with Franny." There was no need to qualify his statement as all three nodded, their minds on a certain titled man and how he'd attempted to entrap Franny into a marriage that would have most likely been dreadful. The quiet, beautiful young woman had believed his words that she was expected to make a proper marriage to keep her family's position in society stable and that her best choice would be to wed him; a peer of the realm.

Lucas chuckled. "It's both a blessing and a curse that our Ettie is like a little terrier. A blessing in that she won't hesitate to bite back, which will keep her safe from fools such as Drakemore, but a curse in that when she gets a hold of something, she doesn't release it until she has what she wants. If, no, when those questions begin, I fear we'll all grow quite hoarse before she's satisfied she has her answers. The hardest part will be to give her only what she needs to know, as every man is different. It wouldn't do to educate her on possibilities that may or may not become part of her life."

"I agree," Edward said. "Just as no one truly knows exactly what happens in a marriage between a couple, there is no way to know exactly what a Papa requires of his Little one." Slapping his friend's shoulder again, he shook his head. "As I said, I have enough on my hands dealing with just one Little, but you, my friend, have an entire house full of women."

"Yes, but one is busy preparing to become a mother, one is a quiet soul who is satisfied with the simplest pleasures and, well, then we have our Ettie," Lucas said. "I can't even begin to imagine how empty this house will feel when that little tornado does wed and move away."

Molly assured him she'd keep him informed about any issues and then went into her room to gather her knitting supplies. She'd return to the kitchen for a cup of tea and some conversation with Mrs. Mayes, the housekeeper. The two had become fast friends and usually spent a couple of hours every day during the girl's naptime chatting and knitting.

As for the men, they sought out both Joseph and his father, William, to help bring in the tree and set it up in the library to await being decorated.

Chapter Four

Everyone helped to decorate the tree once it had been set up in the library. The girls had spent several previous evenings preparing popcorn garlands, with bright red berries interspersed between the fluffy kernels. The men helped drape them over the branches as the five women gave conflicting directions. Laughter filled the room as the family worked together, all teasing and praising one another. Once the last ball had been hung, Lucas removed the wrappings from a large silver star. It had been the last item added to the tree for as long as he could remember. This year would be the first time the honor was given to someone other than his three little sisters. Extending his hand, he said, "Come, kitten."

Lucy went to her Papa and smiled as he handed her the star. Her squeal was met with chuckles as he easily lifted her onto his shoulders, his entire head buried beneath her clothing. "Papa!" she said, blushing as she hurriedly rearranged her skirts to allow him to see. As she carefully slid the star onto the top of the tree, she looked down to see her entire family smiling and clapping.

"I love you all so much," she said, giving her husband a huge hug when he set her onto her feet. The sentiment was returned, and they stood in a group gazing up at the tree.

"It is our most beautiful tree yet," Lucas declared before turning to his family. "I'll repeat what Lucy just said. I love you all very much."

After dinner, the family once more gathered in the library. Bea and Frank stayed for a short while before she announced that she was tired and her husband escorted her to their own rooms. As the remaining four girls sat around the table working on a jigsaw puzzle, Ettie leaned in as if wishing to convey something secretly.

Lucy felt her heart skip a beat, terrified that her sister was about to start asking questions. She discovered she was right, but the topic of the questions was not about any forbidden subject.

"What are you going to give Bea for Christmas, Franny?" Ettie asked, looking over her shoulder as if expecting to see her older sister reappearing.

"I'm thinking about writing a story," Franny said with a slight blush. "Something for the baby, really. I thought it might be nice for them to read to him when he is older. A tale of how they announced they were expecting a child, how Bea rubs her tummy and smiles when she thinks no one is looking. How proud and protective Frank is… um, that sort of thing."

"Oh, Franny, that is beautiful," Ettie said before sighing. "So much better than just knitting something."

Franny reached over and patted her sister's hand. "You knit beautifully, Ettie, and you know that Bea appreciates handmade gifts."

"I suppose, but I do think your idea is the absolute best. Instead of just a story, have you thought about turning it into a real book? Are you going to illustrate it? I can just see that sweet little snow family on a page."

"Oh, Ettie, that's a wonderful idea," Franny said. "I hadn't even thought of adding illustrations. If I want it to be a true book, I won't have it finished by Christmas, though. There are many months to go before the baby arrives."

"Perhaps you could just give her a page or two and tell her your plan," Louisa suggested.

"You could even wrap the first drawing if you finish it," Lucy added, her excitement obvious.

"That's a great idea," Franny said. "Then I wouldn't have to rush."

"I'm sure you'll need some new paints. We can look to see if the store has those color sticks," Ettie suggested as she slotted another piece into the puzzle.

Lucy giggled and shook her head. "And I suppose you know just who to ask?"

Tossing her hair, Ettie laughed. "Of course. After all, Mr. Whitmore said I should feel free to visit anytime, and I'm sure he'd appreciate our business. Oh, Franny, I just had an idea. I'd like to make a blanket if you'll help me draw the pattern. Maybe design it with a few baby animals? Oh, and Cleo for sure. Do you think that would be a good gift?"

"Yes, and you can wrap up a few skeins of yarn if you don't finish it in time for Christmas," Franny suggested and then giggled as she looked at the others. "Poor Bea, it seems all she'll receive are boxes of promises."

"Promises of great gifts to come," Louisa said. "Sometimes those are the very best."

The four continued to work on the puzzle and discuss drafting an afghan pattern for the newest member of their family. Franny agreed to work on it and also to help Ettie choose the yarns during their upcoming shopping trip. Gifts discussed, they began to excitedly talk about the upcoming ball and Emmie coming for a visit.

"Where is Emmie going to sleep?" Ettie asked. "I mean, last time she slept in your nursery, but Louisa is in there now."

Lucy looked up from the puzzle. "I hadn't really thought of that. I suppose she can nap in the guestroom she and Uncle Stefan will share."

"Oh, I was hoping that maybe she would be able to nap in my room," Ettie said. "Do you think her Papa would allow that?"

"I don't know but I don't suppose it would hurt to ask," Lucy said. "But maybe you should ask Papa first."

"I'll do that," Ettie declared and then giggled. "And I'll make sure to promise that we will actually sleep."

Louisa and Lucy looked at each other. Ettie saw the exchange and said, "What? Don't you have to actually sleep?"

"Yes, we do," Louisa acknowledged. "Nanny Molly makes absolutely sure that we do."

"If Nanny Bertha comes to stay as well, I suggest you don't think you or Emmie would get away with anything. She's a wonderful woman, but believe me, she is not as lenient as Molly used to be." Lucy knew what she was talking about as she'd witnessed her former lady's maid turning into an excellent, confident nanny under the additional tutelage of Bertha.

"Well, perhaps she won't come," Ettie said with a shrug. "She seemed very nice at Lord Northbridge's dinner party." That statement brought them to the men they'd met when attending a fun evening not long before.

"Which man caught your fancy, Franny?" Louisa asked.

Franny blushed and had just opened her mouth to give a response when Molly interrupted, announcing it was time for bed. Three soft moans of displeasure met the announcement but Franny appeared to be a bit relieved. Of all the women in the household, she was the quietest and held things deep inside. Lucy just hoped that she whoever she decided to court, he would be far kinder than that awful Lord Drakemore. She deserved a man who would acknowledge and appreciate what a beautiful soul he had been gifted. As she gave her sister-in-law a hug goodnight, she whispered, "We aren't being nosy, we just really care about you."

Franny smiled and returned the hug, and had Lucy giggling when she raised her eyebrow and whispered back, "Perhaps a little nosy?"

"Guilty," Lucy conceded.

"I love you, Lucy. I know you are just concerned but don't be. I'll stay far away from anyone even remotely like Walter."

After all the wishes for sweet dreams had been exchanged, the four parted to find their beds, stopping by the tree one last time.

"I promise it will still be here in the morning," Lucas said as he joined them. "Remember, only well-rested girls get to go shopping," he teased as he also doled out kisses. His reminder made it just a bit easier for Ettie to skip up the stairs to seek her bed. She had already made out her shopping list, and couldn't wait to see what the newest store in town had to offer.

Franny might not know if any of the gentlemen they'd met caught her interest, but she was already thinking and comparing the men. As she laid her head on her pillow, she thought about how Dr. Fielding had thought it sweet that the family had made candy cones for the children and smiled. He seemed to be a man with whom she could laugh and perhaps play. Lord Lenar; now he was a bit of a conundrum. He was so handsome, but had not joined in any of the lighter conversation that night. Instead, he'd been quiet, almost withdrawn, and yet she felt that he hadn't missed a single thing. Mr. Benedict had definitely not given her a second glace as he'd only had eyes for Franny. Lastly, there was Mr. Whitmore. He'd been funny and so nice in inviting them to come see his new store. She couldn't wait to taste what delectable treats would be offered in the café he'd mentioned. She closed her eyes and smiled. How did anyone make the right choice when faced with so many possibilities?

* * * * *

Lucas and Edward enjoyed a glass of brandy and cigars after the women had all left the library. Rolling the liquor in his glass to warm it, Edward grinned. "Amazing how quiet a house gets after being filled with so many voices during the day."

"Yes, but I found that when I traveled, I truly missed the chatter of my sisters. I hope you aren't finding it too distracting during your holiday."

"Good gracious, no," Edward assured him. "Not having siblings, it is a wonderful thing to be allowed to share your family. As much as your Lucy chattered and argued when she lived at Wintercrest, I missed her the moment she stepped aboard that train."

Lucas chuckled. "Well, I can't apologize for taking her from you. She is the light of my life and I'd not give her up for anything." As a figure passed by the entry to cross the hall, he spoke again. "I'm just praying that when Molly weds, she'll want to continue taking care of Lucy."

"So you do think she's to wed?"

"Absolutely," Lucas said. "I swear that Joseph's mind is on her all the time. Poor lad admitted he'd polished the same pair of boots three times instead of three different pairs today."