Chapter 13
Gossip, suspicions, and celebrations
Soon spring came, and everything turned green. The rose garden in Lakewood was beginning to be reborn, and the young man who treasured it resumed his routine to take care of it. Of course, Mr. Withman helped him. But, his dearest person also offered help. Anthony taught Candy how to take care of roses, and he always made sure she didn't hurt her hands with thorns.
- Done.
- Soon roses will be born. This garden is so beautiful ... It seems a magical kingdom of a fairytale.
- Thanks for helping me take care of it Candy.
- No Anthony, thank you for teaching me.
While the two blondes enjoyed each other's company, great-aunt had gone for a walk in the town. She decided to stop at a cafeteria to eat a snack. Suddenly, she heard murmurs from two ladies talking.
- Is what she said true?
- She is part of the clan, I doubt very much that she lies. She said that her children were unjustly accused and sent away. The poor thing is heartbroken, she couldn't even spend Christmas with them. And she also told me that the matriarch of the family and her grandchildren came together in an orphanage. And not only that, but they were also with a traveling troupe.
- Good Heavens!
- I don't understand, meeting poor people and turning their backs on their own family.
Mrs. Elroy got out of there very upset. From what she heard, she did not doubt who started the gossip. She felt that she should plan something to protect the honor of the family.
On the other hand, the Dandelion Troupe undertook its trip to England, along with Nadja's family. She and her beloved husband chatted merrily and shared, taking advantage of the days they would have together before the troupe's European tour began.
- We've had wonderful holidays.
- Yes, dear. The plan was perfect.
- How is everything going at work?
- Excellent.
- What a joy, I want to get to visit the Applefield orphanage.
- It was nice to meet your new friends. Candy is a lovely young girl.
- Yes, I was very surprised because we are similar.
- You know, Nadja?
- Tell me, dear.
- There's something about Anthony that's familiar to me. And not only because of our similarities.
- What do you mean?
- When we met them on Christmas, Anthony told my brother and me that his mother died when he was little, and that she loved to grow roses. Same as ours.
- So?
- And, I have a vague memory of having seen a blonde, green-eyed, beautiful, and gentle young woman next to my mother as a child. I think they were friends since they were girls. She liked to play with us when we were little.
- And you think that friend was Anthony's mother?
- I'm not sure, but I could investigate about it.
At the Lakewood mansion, Elroy Andley called for Candy and the boys.
- Children, I have to tell you something.
- What's up, great-aunt? I see you unsteady.
- I am Stear, this morning people commented unpleasant things. They criticized our recent activities together, and believe that we turn our backs on the Leagans.
- Do not listen to them great-aunt, I don't doubt who has spread the gossip.
- I don't either Anthony, but it's not that simple. We must take care of our honor. That is why I have contacted Mr. Williams, and it has been decided that you'll go to school as soon as autumn arrives.
- What?!
- Anthony, you and Archie will study in France. And Candy, you and Stear will go to Italy.
The matriarch had decided to distribute them like this, so that each one was accompanied. And also, she had some suspicion of Candy and Anthony's feelings. Although the boy did not tell her anything, she raised him, and learned to know his mood well. She did not stop noticing that glowing look in the eyes of her grandson when he was near that girl. She thought it was very tender, but she knew that they should wait a while, and grow up to handle their feelings maturely.
- Great aunt!
- I know it's not easy kids, but believe me it's for your good. Not only for our family, we also want you to acquire new experiences and find your way. You guys, are close to coming of age. And you Candy, you must learn a lot to become a lady.
At the words of the matriarch, the four understood what she was saying. No doubt they were afraid, but they trusted her. In addition, Candy and Anthony knew that Albert would never decide something that would harm them.
- Great aunt…
- Yes, Candy?
- Would you allow me to visit Pony's Home in summer?
The woman hesitated for a moment, gossiping started for being there. But, she knew that refusing would hurt Candy's feelings.
- Alright child, but be discreet.
- I have it solved, I'll go with my simple dresses, and I'll comb my hair differently. - Candy declared with a wink, and sticking out her tongue. –
- Thanks for your understanding children. Anthony, I need to tell you something in private. You can go now.
- Yes aunt.
Once Elroy was left alone with the blue-eyed boy, he let her know that he had noticed his feelings for Candy. She made it clear that he must wait to be a little older, and always keep his respect with her.
- You can trust that I'll do it aunt.
- Then boy, as you are older, you can formalize your relationship.
- But aunt ... I'd miss her too much.
- I know dear, but you must be patient. You are still children. Also, I arranged with Williams so you can meet in holidays and vacation while you're in Europe. George will accompany you on the ship trip.
- Thank you, great-aunt.
- You can go now.
Days later, the month of May started. And on the morning of the seventh day, Candy heard a knock on her door.
- Who's there? She asked with a yawn. –
But nobody responded. She got up, and saw a note under her door.
Happy birthday, little white rose. Get ready soon, many surprises are ready.
Anthony.
Candy smiled excitedly, eager to know what her sweet prince was planning. At that moment, Dorothy knocked on the door.
- Come in.
- Good morning Candy, happy birthday.
- Thank you, Dorothy.
- I'll prepare your bath, they almost serve breakfast.
- Okay, but I'll dress myself.
- Okay, Candy.
After that relaxing bath, Candy was surprised to open her closet. She found a gift inside. After putting on a comfortable yellow dress, she read the note that the package brought.
Happy birthday kitty. As soon as I saw it yesterday, I remembered you. I hope you like it.
Archie.
Inside the box, there was a nice bracelet of green stones, just like his eyes. It also had a golden pendant in the shape of a hummingbird in the middle.
- How beautiful it is! Thanks Archie.
When descending, the blonde perceived a very sweet aroma. Upon entering the dining room, the great aunt and her three gentlemen waited for her smiling. Breakfast consisted of a bowl of fresh fruit, orange juice, and pancakes dipped in honey.
- Happy birthday Candy!
- Thank you all!
- Come child, you won't want breakfast to get cold.
The freckled girl enjoyed it with great delight. When finished, the matriarch spoke.
Candy, we'll have a party for you tonight.
- Thanks, great-aunt.
- I see you later children, I must go out a moment.
Once the matriarch left, Candy decided to go out and play with Clint. But before, he spoke fondly to Archie.
- Thanks for this gift Archie, it's beautiful.
- I'm glad you like it, Candy.
- I love the hummingbird charm.
- The hummingbird is always free and energetic, just like you. - Added the young man tenderly. –
Stear retired to his laboratory, assuring that he would not attempt pyrotechnics on that occasion. However, Archie accompanied him to monitor that no disaster occurred. Being finally alone, Anthony spoke to Candy smiling.
- Candy, close your eyes.
- Huh?
- I guide you.
The young lady was very excited. Together they entered the garden, and Candy inhaled with delight the sweet fragrance of the roses.
- You can open them Candy.
- Oh! It is beautiful!
The rose garden was flowery and seemed to shine with the reflections of the sun. Very early that morning, those special roses had been born that the boy had named in honor of her.
- Happy birthday Candy, Sweet Candy greet you, and they will do it every year.
- Anthony!
- The girl hugged him lovingly, and he kissed her tenderly on the forehead.
- There's something else I have for you.
- Really?
- Close your eyes again, please.
- But…
- If you don't do it, it wouldn't be a surprise.
- Okay…
- Don't cheat little naughty girl. - Anthony said. It was funny to see that she left one eye open. –
- Hahahaha sorry. It's the excitement. I'm ready.
- Now Candy, open your hands and put them together.
The boy handed her a red and gold box in her hands and opened it.
- Open your eyes Candy.
The girl smiled in wonder. In the box was a golden heart-shaped locket with her name engraved. Before she could speak, Anthony stepped forward.
- Open it.
Inside the heart, there were two nice pictures of them. And from behind, there was a small message.
"Happy birthday, since I met you, you became part of my heart.
Anthony. "
- Anthony ... it's so beautiful...
- Do you like it?
- I love it!
- I ordered it at a jewelry store.
Anthony took the beautiful gift, and put it on his beloved's neck.
- It looks beautiful on you.
- Thanks Anthony!
The freckled girl hugged him again, smiling from ear to ear.
- I love you Candy, never forget it.
- And I love you.
The two young ones brought their faces close, and brought their lips together in a tender and sweet kiss. Their second kiss had taken place in that magical place, surrounded by the sweet Candy newly bloomed, and with the small and faithful Clint as the only witness. The little animal smiled while watching them.
A few minutes later, the lovebirds came out to ride. They returned shortly before great-aunt returned. They were talking in the living room with Stear and Archie, when suddenly the messenger arrived with correspondence.
Young men, miss, letters have arrived.
- Thank you very much.
- Nadja wrote me!
- A letter from dad!
- Mom and dad wrote to us!
The four laughed amused by the mutual emotion, and each one read their letters.
Dear Candy,
Happy Birthday! You did not think I would forget it after everything you told me, right? Have a wonderful day. All of us wish you that. You know? Leader says that we can visit you as soon as we finish our tour in Europe. I really loved knowing your beloved Pony's Home. It reminded me so much of my life at the Applefield Orphanage ... Have a beautiful birthday.
Your friend,
Nadja
Dear Anthony,
How have you been son? I'm fine, missing you a lot. My great aunt told me about the study plans for you. So you and Archie will be with me. Whenever there is free time, we will take advantage of it.
Tell Candy I wish her a happy birthday.
Your father,
Vincent Brower.
Dear Alister and Archibald
Beloved children, how are you? We are very sorry to spend so much time away from you for work. We want to let you know, we'll be visiting Lakewood for Stear's birthday. It is a promise. We also want to meet that lovely young lady about whom you've told so much in your last letters.
Lovingly,
Your parents.
Alan and Janice Cornwell.
The four friends were grateful to receive the news. Candy remembered for a moment, how Nadja's eyes crystallized when she met Miss Pony on Christmas Day. Well, he looked a lot like his dear Mrs. Appleton. The former principal of the Applefield orphanage.
Flashback
- Are you all right dear?
- Yes, I'm sorry. It's just that you remind me of who raised me, Mrs. Appleton. She died seven years ago, saving a child from being crushed...
- Awww dear... I'm so sorry.
- Nadja...
The young dancer was tenderly embraced by her husband. Candy also had tears in her eyes to hear that sad moment, so Anthony did the same as the older blond to comfort her.
- Do not worry Candy, I know that she always takes care of me from Heaven.
- It's true, Nadja. Man dies, but eternally revives in the heart of those who love him.
- Thanks, Anthony.
End of the flashback
The night came, and Candy went to her room to get ready for the celebration.
On her bed, she found a white box with a note.
Happy birthday Candy, I asked George to leave this gift from me to you. I hope you like it little one, I do not doubt that you will look beautiful.
Fondly,
William A. Andley.
The moment the blonde arrived ready to the stairs, her three knights exclaimed in wonder.
- How beautiful!
The dress she received as a gift, was long and with a beautiful lilac color. She wore slippers of the same hue, with golden details. Her hair, which already had longer on that occasion, was combed in a high ponytail with a large ribbon of the same color.
There was Annie, who was invited by great-aunt. The two friends embraced.
- You're beautiful Candy!
- Thanks, Annie.
- Really lovely. Happy birthday Candy.
- Thank you, Mr. Britter.
At that moment, the music began to sound. Anthony approached, and bowed.
- May I have this dance?
- Of course.
- You look magnificent, princess.
- Thanks Anthony...
The party was dreamy, the cake was chocolate, her favorite flavor. Stear gave her as a gift a toy made by him, which walked and greeted her by taking off his hat.
- What a funny bunny!
- Rabbit? Oh I'm sorry! I wanted to make you a squirrel.
-Squirrel! Hahaha!
- Hahaha, well brother, at least it works well.
- And I love it Stear, thank you very much.
- You're welcome, Candy.
Annie was the last to give her gift. It was a beautiful painting with the portrait of her dear friend and sister. In addition, she also brought her cards with lovely drawings made by the children of Pony's Home, and letters from their loving mothers.
Days later, Stear's birthday was also celebrated. And as they had said in their letter, Alan and Janice Cornwell were present. Immediately, Candy won their affection. Stear received new tools as a gift, and the pieces to assemble a scale model of an airplane.
To be continued…