Obadiah's Angel
Chapter 27
Stolen Moments
By Becky
Obadiah arrived at Angelique's house promptly at nine. Walking up to the door, he knocked, then pulled his cloak tighter around his shoulders. The wind had turned bitter cold, and the snow was falling heavily. He'd not seen a snow fall this heavy in quite a long time.
Felicia opened the door and greeted him as she ushered him into the parlour. "Miss Angelique will be right down." She exited the room, heading back to the kitchen.
Dorthea entered the parlour from the dining room. "Good Morning, Obadiah," she greeted.
He nodded. "Good Morning, Dorthea."
"Would you like some tea or coffee while you wait?"
"No ma'am, I just finished with breakfast. I'm quite fine, thank you." He stood there waiting.
Maggie called to him from the dining room. "Obadiah, can you come here a moment?"
Obadiah stepped into the dining room. "Yes, ma'am?"
"You and the Bishop are coming for dinner tomorrow night, are you not?" Maggie questioned.
"Yes, we are. Thank you for inviting us."
"And then on Boxing day your mother will join us. I'm so looking forward to seeing her again," Maggie replied with a smile, adding, "Oh, Hester, I can't wait for you to meet Obadiah's mother!"
Hester Castle looked up with a smile at Obadiah. "I'm looking forward to it, young man."
Angelique slipped up behind Obadiah as he stood there in the doorway to the dining room, and ran her hand slowly up his back. She came around to his side and smiled at him. "Good morning," she murmured.
He looked down at her and smiled. "Good morning."
"Mother, I shall tell Auntie Bets that we will be over before Boxing day." Angelique kissed her mother, Queenie, and Maggie all goodbye.
"We will be back within the hour," Obadiah offered as he nodded in Dorthea's direction.
"Quite right. Be careful you two."
Obadiah took Angelique's arm and led her to the hallway, helping her with her cloak.
He climbed up into the buggy after tucking the blanket securely around Angelique's feet and legs. The day was frigid; the wind had picked up, and he didn't want her to get too cold.
Snuggling close to his side as they drove over to Elizabeth Owens' home, Angelique laced her arm through Obadiah's, and snuggled her face close to his, trying to keep warm.
When they pulled in front of the Owens' home, she reluctantly let go of his arm, sighing as he jumped from the buggy and tethered the horse. Coming around to her side, Obadiah pulled the blanket away and placed it on the back seat. Reaching out to grasp her waist, he lifted her from the buggy and set her feet firmly on the ground.
Their faces were mere inches apart, and Obadiah could feel her warm breath caressing his face as she spoke. "I love you," she murmured as he removed his hands from her waist and stepped back.
"I love you, my Angel," he whispered with a smile as he grasped her hand.
The door opened as they approached, and Eliza Hayward ushered them in. "Good morning, you two," she greeted. "My goodness, it has really gotten bad out there since last evening, hasn't it?"
Obadiah nodded. "Yes, it has! How are you today? And your mother, how is she doing?"
Helping Angelique to remove her cloak, he hung it on the peg while Eliza whispered, "Mother is so much better. I just can't believe it!"
Obadiah raised his eyebrow in inquiry. "Really, how so?"
Eliza replied with a wide smile, "You'll see."
Obadiah removed his cloak and hung it next to Angelique's. Placing his hat on the table, he took Angelique by the arm, and together they walked into the parlour, where Elizabeth Owens sat.
She was knitting a shawl when they came in, and she smiled at them. "Oh, Angelique, it's so good to see you again."
Looking to Obadiah, she smiled at him. "Reverend, how are you today?"
Obadiah and Angelique sat on the settee. Angelique was the first to speak. "Auntie Bets, Mother sends her best, and asked me to tell you that she will come by next week."
"Oh that's so nice! Tell her that I'm looking forward to that."
Angelique smiled, and reached out to give Elizabeth's arm a squeeze.
"Elizabeth, I trust you are better since our last visit?" Obadiah inquired.
Elizabeth gestured toward the table next to the wall. There on top sat a bundle of shawls in several different colors. "Yes, I am much better," she replied with a chuckle.
Angelique gasped as she looked at the table. "Oh, Auntie Bets, they are beautiful!" Obadiah nodded in agreement as, he too, examined the bundle.
As Angelique and Elizabeth talked, Eliza came into the room, bearing a tray of tea and biscuits. Obadiah stood and took the tray from her, placing it on the low table in front of the settee.
Eliza glanced at her mother and noticed she was deep in conversation with Angelique. She turned to Obadiah, then nodded toward the corner, where the painting stood.
Obadiah shifted his gaze. It was almost finished, he noticed.
Turning his attention to Eliza, he whispered, "I'm so glad to see she is making progress."
"I am too, thanks to you and Angelique." Obadiah turned his attention back to the conversation between Elizabeth and Angelique when Eliza exited the room.
As the hour grew short, Obadiah addressed the older woman. "Elizabeth, I am glad to see you have started to paint again. This is truly a wonderful surprise!"
Angelique looked at the easel, and then turned back to the woman. "Oh, Auntie Bets, it's beautiful!"
Elizabeth smiled in her direction. "Well, thanks really goes to you and your young man, here." Elizabeth gestured. Angelique blushed, and Obadiah cleared his throat several times.
"Oh, yes. I noticed on your first visit, dear, and I must say, I quite approve." She smiled in Obadiah's direction, hoping he understood the apology in her tone. She had not been fair to him, and had misjudged his character at their first meeting.
Angelique smiled happily. "Thank you, Auntie Bets. He is rather special in my book."
Elizabeth eyed Obadiah, and nodded. "Yes, he is. I heard from your grandmother how he defended you at that party."
Angelique smiled over at him. "Yes he did. My hero." She whispered it, but Elizabeth heard her, and watched as Obadiah's ears reddened slightly.
The couple stayed a bit longer than an hour, and it was with reluctance that Obadiah made the comment that they'd best be on their way. "Angelique, remember we must stop at SunnyGlen before heading back to your house."
Angelique rose and kissed Elizabeth goodbye.
Obadiah stepped forward. "It was good to see you again, Elizabeth. Until next week." He took her hand, and gave it a squeeze.
Picking up the bundle from the table, Obadiah escorted Angelique to the hallway. Placing the bundle on the low stool, he helped her don her cloak. After putting his cloak on, he picked up his hat and the bundle, and the couple exited the house.
He placed the shawls on the back seat of the buggy and helped Angelique into the front seat. Carefully covering her feet and legs, and tucking in the blanket around them, he climbed in, and the couple started off to SunnyGlen.
Angelique snuggled close to his side, and smiled as the frosty air blew around them, sending shivers up her spine. She thought about the kiss, and remembered her plan for tomorrow night. She smiled widely and serenely. iYes indeed, tomorrow can't get here fast enough!/i
They arrived at SunnyGlen, and Obadiah pulled under the awning. He noticed Kenneth's buggy in the lot, and smiled. As he was helping Angelique from the buggy, he began to speak. "Angel, I want to tell you something."
"Yes, what is it?"
"The Bishop and my mother...well, he told me Monday afternoon that he was in love with her."
"Oh, Obadiah, that's wonderful!" she whispered.
Obadiah went on. "Yesterday, he came and had a talk with mother, and confessed his feelings for her. He asked her if perhaps he had a chance at winning her affections, since he knew how much she was in love with my father." Angelique listened as he continued. "He asked her if he would have any chance at winning her affections, and she told him yes." Obadiah's eyes took on a far away look as he remembered the conversation between himself and Kenneth.
Angelique smiled up at him. "I'm so glad. I knew the first time I met him that he was certainly interested in her."
Obadiah raised his eyebrow at her statement. "Oh, really?"
"Yes, it was quite evident the first time I saw them talking. I knew she was interested in him, too." They made their way slowly up the steps. "Obadiah, you mean you couldn't tell?"
"Well, let's just say I had hoped they would realize it," he whispered.
Angelique opened the door to the building and went in. Obadiah carried in the bundle of shawls, and handed them to James.
"James, please take these to Sarah. She will know who to give one to," Angelique asked him. Nodding, James took the bundle and walked away, leaving Obadiah and Angelique alone in the hallway.
Angelique looked over at the man standing beside her. "Well, I'm glad they realized it. Everyone needs to have someone they care about in their lives."
Obadiah studied her, then came to a decision. It was time for his own confession. He'd been hiding behind a wall of fear, but deep in his heart he knew that this woman would not hurt him.
"Angelique, might we speak somewhere a little less public?" He looked around at the nurses and residents milling about the area.
"Of course; we can go to my office if you'd like," she replied, curious. Obadiah nodded, and the pair walked arm in arm down the long hallway toward her office in silence.
Obadiah opened the door, and Angelique stepped in. He followed her, and closed the door. Helping her with her cloak, he hung it on the cloak tree, then removed his own, and hung it up, setting his hat on the table.
The office was warm and cozy. The fire had been attended to, and there was a tray with water and sherry on the sideboard. Angelique asked Obadiah if he'd care for a small glass of sherry.
He nodded absently. "Yes, thank you." His mind was turning over the words he would say. This young woman meant everything to him, and he wanted to tell her that.
He smiled as he watched her, and listened to her chatting away about Elizabeth Owens. When she turned around and handed him the glass, he took it, and captured her hand with his free one. He drew her close, and led her over to the settee in front of the fireplace.
"Here, my Angel, sit down." He took her glass and placed it on the low table. She settled comfortably, and looked up into his lean, hawk-like face, and those dark, glittering, intense eyes.
He picked up his glass, took a sip, then set it back down. Placing his hands behind his back, he cleared his throat, and looked at his Angel.
She had a puzzled look on her face as she watched him. "Obadiah, what's wrong?" He seemed nervous, and a bit distracted, and she was growing concerned. iOh, surely he isn't going to call an end to this courtship./i Her eyes prickled with unshed tears as she waited for him to speak.
Obadiah stood there for a moment, looking at a spot on the wall just behind her head. Then he looked down into her eyes. He noticed she had tears in her eyes, and wondered what the cause was.
"Angelique, I have something I'd like to tell you...a confession if you will," he began, hesitatingly.
"Yes, what is it?"
Obadiah cleared his throat and began to pace, trying to think of just the right words. He stopped pacing, and sat down beside her. Taking her hand in his, he looked into her eyes. "My Angel," he whispered, "I want you to know that I have never felt about any other woman the way I feel about you. And that I have harbored these feelings for you since I first saw you that day in the coach house in London.
"Angelique, I want you to know right now that there will never be anyone else for me, but you. I'm never going to be interested in anyone else. Do you understand?"
She nodded. "I think so."
"What I'm trying to say is, I'm quite serious about marrying you. I want you to be my wife someday," he whispered, his voice hushed by a flood of emotions. "I know this is all too soon for you to make up your mind. I don't dare hope that you can return my feelings at this time. But, if you could see me as your husband someday, I would be so honored." Angelique was stunned, and sat there in silence, gazing into his beautiful eyes. "I don't expect an answer right away. I will give you all the time you need." He took her hand and kissed her wrist.
She blushed, and reached out to caress his cheek. "Oh, Obadiah," she whispered, her love shining in her bright green eyes.
At that moment, a knock came to the door. It was Victoria Holmes with a report on a new resident. Obadiah stood and helped his Angel to her feet.
"I'll be in Mother's room until you are finished."
She held his hand until they reached the door, reluctant to let go. Obadiah smiled gently, turning to walk to his mother's room.
Angelique sat in her office after Victoria left. She thought about what Obadiah had said, and her eyes misted with tears. iHe wants to marry me! There will never be another, he said./i "He doesn't think I return his feelings," she whispered. "If I could see him as my husband. My husband!.
"Oh, Obadiah, I want you to be my husband." She placed her hands to her cheeks. iI must tell him today./i
Then an idea came to her, and she smiled. "Tomorrow night--that is when I will tell him."
She headed for the doorway. Walking toward Esther's room, she was stopped by Sarah Wise. "Oh, Miss Rhys, those shawls are so nice! They have really made nice presents for the ladies."
"I'm glad. I think there might be more in a few weeks." She glanced at the door to Esther's room. Obadiah was standing in the doorway, looking at her. He smiled at her, then winked. She blushed crimson and looked down, trying to keep her demeanor calm in front of Sarah.
When she glanced up again, he'd stepped back inside the room. She turned her attention to Sarah as the older woman bid her a good day, and proceeded to her office.
Angelique shook her head. iThat devilish man!/i She walked a few more paces to Esther's room, and stepped in.
Obadiah turned around and his smile widened as she stepped forward, lacing her arm through his. Esther and Kenneth were sitting side by side on the bed, chatting animatedly. Esther looked up and smiled. "Oh, Angelique! How are you today, dear?"
Angelique smiled in her direction. "I'm just doing all the good this morning, thanks to your son." Her eyes twinkled as she looked at him. Obadiah blushed slightly, and looked down at his mother.
Kenneth watched the interaction between the two, and smiled. iSo he told her,/i he thought with satisfaction, wanting the boy to be as happy as he and his mother were. He caught Obadiah's eye, and the younger man nodded. Kenneth smiled, then listened as Angelique and Esther began chatting.
The pair stayed at SunnyGlen for another hour, until Obadiah mentioned to his Angel that her mother would surely be worried.
"Well, I should be on my way," she informed Esther as she stood up.
Obadiah hooked his arm through hers. "Mother, sir, I will be at the church for the rest of the afternoon." He escorted Angelique to her office to retrieve their cloaks.
Angelique snuggled close to Obadiah's side as he drove her home. The snow had stopped falling while they were at SunnyGlen, and she smiled as she looked at him. iSo caring,' she thought as they rode along.
She reached out and stroked the side of his face, touching his newly growing beard. He shivered at her touch, and looked over at her.
"I like it, very much," she told him as she caressed his face again.
He smiled over at her. "Do you really?"
"Yes, really. It makes you, look...hmm." She studied his features for a moment. "Devilishly handsome."
He laughed. "Devilish, eh?"
She raked her fingers through the newly grown stubble once again. "Yes, devilish."
"Somehow, I don't think that quite goes along with being a minister."
Angelique leaned closer and kissed his cheek. "I don't care. It does make you look slightly devilish, especially when you get that gleam in your eye."
"Oh, so you like my gleam, too, then?" he teased.
Angelique swatted his arm playfully. "Silly, of course I do." Settling back once more against the seat, they rode along the rest of the way in silence, each alone in their thoughts of the other.
They reached Angelique's home some two hours after they'd left. Dorthea greeted them at the door.
"Oh, Mother! Guess what? Auntie Bets knitted several shawls, and Obadiah and I took them by SunnyGlen."
"That's nice dear, I'm glad to hear it."
"Were you worried, Mother?" Angelique questioned.
Dorthea shook her head. "Let's just say I was growing concerned."
Angelique hugged her. "Oh, Mother, I'm sorry we worried you."
Obadiah stepped forward and took her hand. "Dorthea, I can assure you, I'd never let any harm come to Angelique."
"Thank you," Dorthea said. "I know that, but a mother tends to worry." She smiled at the pair, and walked into the parlour. Obadiah helped Angelique with her cloak, then he hung his up, and they entered the room together.
He chatted with Dorthea, Angelique, Hester, and Maggie until the clock in the hallway struck the hour.
Standing, he nodded to them. "I must be going now. I have some things at the church to attend to." Angelique rose, and walked with him to the door. After donning his cloak, he turned in her direction. "I will see you tomorrow night."
She smiled at him. "Yes, tomorrow." She leaned closer. and kissed his cheek.
As she pulled back, he whispered, "I love you."
Her eyes twinkled and she grasped his hand. "I love you, too," she whispered, and then he was gone.
She turned from the door, smiling, as she went back into the parlour, to take up her embroidery.
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Obadiah went to the church office to take care of a few loose ends with the plans for the school. There was to be another meeting with the bank officers on Friday, and he wanted to be ready. With Stephen out, he needed to read up on things, and separate the paperwork.
He was seated at his desk when a slight tapping came to the door. "Enter," he called out, and turned to see who it was.
Bobby Gentry opened the door and peered in. "Oi! Reverend, I just wanted to let you know that when you are finished I will take the buggy to the barn, sir, and settle Charlie in for the night."
"Well, that's nice of you son, but won't your mother be worried?" Obadiah asked.
"No sir, she knows I takes care of them, and the house is just across the lane, sir, so she don't worry."
"Bobby, you may take Charlie and bed him down now. I can walk to the parsonage."
"Are you sure, sir?"
"Quite sure. Go on now, get it done, so you can get home before dark." Bobby smiled, thanked him, and left.
Obadiah read over the proposals for the bank once more. He had to give Stephen credit, the boy knew his numbers. Everything was in order, nothing was missing in terms of proposed time-lines and expenses. All in all, it seemed that the whole process would go on without a hitch.
Obadiah smiled, satisfied by the hard work Stephen had put in, and vowed to talk to the budget committee about giving the man a raise.
Placing the papers in the satchel, Obadiah left them on the desk, turned down the lamp, and left his office. Walking down the pathway to the parsonage, he noticed Kenneth standing in the foyer as he climbed the steps. Opening the door, he walked in as Kenneth was hanging his cloak on the rack. "You just get back?" Obadiah questioned as he removed his own cloak and hat.
Kenneth smiled at him. "Yes, I did." Obadiah could tell the man was practically on cloud nine.
Obadiah wondered what had happened, and asked. "So, Dad, what's made you so happy tonight?"
"Well, I'm not sure if Esther wants to tell you, or if she wants me to tell you."
Obadiah raised his eyebrow. "Tell me what? Come on, out with it."
Kenneth shook his head. "No, I think I will let Esther tell you." Obadiah looked at him, and shook his head.
Kenneth chuckled. "And stop pouting. You used to do that when you couldn't get me to tell you what you wanted to know."
"I do not pout." Obadiah turned to go into the kitchen.
"I can still see that bottom lip," Kenneth replied, laughing.
When they got to the kitchen, Betsy had the dinner all ready: roast and potatoes, carrots, fresh bread, and a chocolate cake.
Obadiah smiled when he saw the cake. "Betsy, how did you know that chocolate cake was my favorite?"
"Ah, sir, 'twas Ruth that told me." Obadiah tucked into his meal.
Kenneth sat down, and was reading a letter he'd received from London. He smiled as he read, then refolded the letter, and placed it in his pocket.
Obadiah looked at him quizzically, but didn't ask any questions. Kenneth filled his plate and tucked in, smiling every so often, and chuckling to himself. Obadiah shook his head and continued to eat.
After dinner, Kenneth stood up. "How about a game of chess?"
Obadiah smiled. "That sounds like a good idea." He started for the study.
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Thursday arrived with another snow storm blowing. Angelique rolled over in her bed, and looked out at the grey sky. Sighing to herself, she lay there thinking about tonight. Her thoughts turned to the brief kiss she and Obadiah had shared on Tuesday. She wanted him to kiss her again, and had formed her plan with great care. "Obadiah," she whispered, and hugged herself tightly. Sitting up, she threw off the covers and stood.
Donning her housecoat, she walked over to the closet, and looked to see what she could wear tonight. She pulled open the closet door and stood there gazing at the dresses. She sighed as she pushed the dark blue one to the side. "He saw that one." The beige one with green was next. "No, I don't like that one." Five dresses later, she still hadn't chosen one.
Dorthea passed by her room, and heard her talking to herself. "I need a new dress, that's all there is to it." She was grumbling in frustration.
Dorthea stepped into the room. "What's this I hear you saying dear?"
Angelique looked up, complaining. "I need a new dress! Obadiah has seen all of these."
Dorthea shook her head and stepped over to the closet. Reaching toward the back, she drew out a dress Angelique had forgotten all about. It was made from green velvet, with a lace collar that went perfectly with her eyes. Dorthea smiled. "Wear this. He will be speechless if you do."
Angelique smiled happily. "Thank you, Mother." iOh, he'll be speechless alright!/i she thought.
Dorthea left the room, calling over her shoulder, "Come, dear; breakfast is ready, and we have a big day before the dinner tonight."
Angelique hung the dress on the door, and followed her mother downstairs. "Yes, Mother. I have to go to SunnyGlen for about an hour today. A new resident is coming to live there, and I want to welcome him personally."
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Obadiah rolled over as the early morning light came through the curtains and shone in his eyes. He groaned as he tried to sit up. His back was hurting, and as he lay there, he stretched and heard it pop. Instant relief flooded him, as he sat up slowly.
Looking out the window, he sighed heavily as he saw the snow once more falling gently, covering the streets of Hammersmith in a blanket of fluffy white.
Falling back on the bed, he sighed. Lying there, eyes closed once more, he thought he heard singing. "Surely not." He snuggled back under the blankets for a few more minutes' sleep. As he settled down once more, he heard the deep, rich baritone voice of Kenneth, singing, "God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen".
Obadiah smiled as he sat up to listen. He hadn't heard the man sing in ages, not since he'd left for the seminary. He recalled, the time he and Kenneth had moved from Keighley to the little house in London near the synod.
Kenneth had been appointed a new position, and everything was looking up. He remembered how Kenneth used to sing while he prepared their meals, before he went to the synod, and Obadiah went to school.
Smiling at the memory, he heard the door to the loo open, and heard Kenneth making his way to his room, still singing.
Pushing himself off the bed, he donned his robe, and padded into the hallway. "Are you finished, Dad?" he called out.
Kenneth stuck his head out of the bedroom door. "What? Oh, quite right, son. Yes I am. "Oh, good morning," he added as he stepped back inside his room.
"Good morning, Dad," Obadiah called back as he made his way down the hall to the loo.
At breakfast, Betsy commented, "Oi! I don't know which one of you was singing this morning, but it was fair grand it was."
Obadiah raised his hands. "I can't carry a tune in a basket."
Betsy laughed. "Aye, really now, then 'twas the Bishop." Looking at him, she praised, "T'was beautiful, sir."
Kenneth cleared his throat, replying wistfully, "It's been a long time since I sang, too long."
Obadiah sipped at his coffee for a moment. "You're happy, that's it." His eyes searched the other man's for a denial.
Kenneth shook his head and smiled. "Yes, son, I am very happy."
After breakfast, the two men set off for SunnyGlen. Kenneth wasn't going to tell Obadiah what had made him so happy; he'd informed him, "Your mother wants to tell you."
As they pulled in front of the building, Kenneth stepped out of the buggy as Obadiah tethered the horse.
They walked down the hallway toward Esther's room. Peering inside, they saw she wasn't there, and continued on toward the recreation room.
Kenneth stepped into the room and saw her sitting near the fireplace. "Good morning, dear." He strolled over to her chair, leaned down, and kissed her.
Obadiah smiled as he walked over and kissed her cheek. "Good morning, Mother."
Esther smiled up at him. "Sit down! Sit down! I want to tell you something!"
Obadiah pulled up a chair, and sat down next to her. "Now then, Mother, what are you two so excited about?" He smiled at the happy expression on his mother's face.
Esther turned toward Kenneth. "We want to get married, and we'd like your permission." Her eyes were shining brightly.
Kenneth looked at him. "Would you perform the ceremony for us, son?" He sat tentatively, waiting for an answer.
Obadiah looked from his mother to Kenneth and back, his eyes wide. "Married? Married!"
"Yes, son. Isn't that what people do when they are in love?" Kenneth teased.
"Permission granted, Mother, and yes I will perform the ceremony. God's blessings on both of you." Hugging his mother close, he reached out and held Kenneth's hand. "I'm so happy for you both," he whispered softly, the hitch in his voice betraying his emotions.
They sat there chatting for the longest time, then Kenneth pulled the note from his pocket, and read it to them.
iDear Kenneth,
Your retirement, while not unexpected, is surprising this soon. I was hoping you would stay on until after the first of the year but I can understand your reasons. We will miss you very much, and hope you and your intended will be very happy together. We shall have the boxes ready for you when you return, and there will be plenty of help from the other pastors in getting your belongings packed to move.
See you soon,
Bishop John Trewell./i
Obadiah nodded as Kenneth finished the letter. "He taught me homiletics at the seminary."
"Yes, he takes on a class here and there at the synod at times." Kenneth refolded the letter and placed it back into his pocket. "Now, son, what I...we...need, is for you to help us find a home here in Hammersmith." The older man reached out and took Esther's hand, holding it close.
Obadiah smiled. "It will be my pleasure, sir, Mother."
"Nothing big, mind you," Esther added.
"Quite right, something small, perhaps three bedrooms." He looked at Esther. "We will employ a housekeeper and cook, and of course, Obadiah will hopefully want to spend a night or two with us at times. Right, son?"
Obadiah nodded. "Yes, Dad. I would like that very much."
Esther looked at the two. "Dad. You call him dad?"
"Yes, Mother. I didn't think Father or you would mind. At least I hope you don't. But he was the only father I knew from early on, and so..." Obadiah trailed off as he watched his mother.
She smiled. "I think that's just fine, son. I know your father would approve."
Obadiah kissed her cheek and stood up. "If you don't mind, I would like to see if Angelique is here yet." He excused himself.
"Go on, son. I will be ready whenever you get back."
Obadiah walked down to Angelique's office. He met Victoria Hollis in the hallway. "Is Miss Rhys here yet?" he inquired.
Victoria shook her head. "No, sir. She isn't coming in now. We were supposed to be getting in two new residents, but they decided to wait." She went on to explain further. "I sent a note, and told her of the changes. She responded, and said something about a family dinner, and getting ready for it, and that the delay was going to be of help."
"I see; well, thank you." He retreated to his mother's room. As he neared the door, he noticed it was very quiet. Thinking they had perhaps gone to the dining room, he walked in to retrieve his coat and hat. Stepping into the room, he was surprised to find the pair in each other's arms, kissing.
He quietly stepped back into the hallway. Clearing his throat loudly to alert the couple, he strolled into the room. "She isn't coming in today."
"I'm sorry to hear that, son," Kenneth said.
Obadiah smiled as he sat down. "I am too."
The visit lasted until a little after lunch. Obadiah kissed his mother goodbye, nodded to Kenneth, and stepped into the hallway to wait for him.
After a few moments, Kenneth came strolling out into the hallway. Esther was holding his hand. The trio walked down to the front entrance, where Esther bid her son and fiancé farewell. Kenneth gave her one more kiss, then the two men left for the parsonage.
As the clock in the downstairs hallway struck six, Angelique stepped out of her room and started down the staircase. Obadiah and Kenneth were just coming in the door as Angelique stepped into view at the top stair.
Obadiah's breath caught in his throat as he looked at her. iBeautiful./i He stared as she started down the steps, her eyes never leaving his face.
As she reached the bottom step, Obadiah walked over, took her hand in his, and kissed it. Edward and Kenneth stood there watching as the couple made their way to the parlour. The others were seated and talking amongst themselves when Obadiah and Angelique walked in, Kenneth and Edward behind them. Felicia stepped into the room a few moments later and announced dinner.
As soon as Obadiah stepped into the dining room, he noticed two chairs placed close together. Leading Angelique over to her usual place, he pulled her chair out for her. When she was seated, he started around to the other side of the table to take his usual seat. Angelique reached out and grasped his hand. "No, sit here by me." Obadiah looked over at Edward, who nodded in confirmation as he pulled out the chair for Dorthea.
Kenneth seated Hester and Maggie, then took his place near the end of the table by Edward. Obadiah led the prayer of thanks, and they all tucked into the meal.
"This lamb is excellent," Kenneth commented, as he took another helping from the platter.
"Yes, Felicia and cook are quite accomplished. Did you taste the glazed carrots?" Hester questioned. "They are my favorite."
The chatter went on, conversations ranging from politics in the local government to medicine, and the events of the day. As they were sitting there, chatting, Obadiah felt Angelique's knee against his. Glancing over at her, he smiled, and continued with his meal.
After dinner, everyone retired to the parlour. The ladies took up their knitting or embroidery, and the three men stood beside the fireplace, talking.
Angelique kept shooting glances at Obadiah as he stood chatting with her father and Bishop Untner. She finally caught his eye, and silently mouthed, iI love you./i He stood there, smiling in her direction, until Edward asked him a question.
After a few moments, Edward announced that the men were retiring to the study for brandy and chess. Angelique watched as they all left, then continued to work on her project.
The pillowcase was almost ready. Just a few more stitches, and it would be complete. She'd decided to give them to her parents for Boxing Day, but had told her mother they were for Auntie Bets. Putting the final touches on the stitches, she removed the cloth from the hoop, and began to smooth it out. She stood and told her mother she was going to take it to her room and wrap it up. Dorthea nodded as she, Hester, and Maggie talked amongst themselves.
Angelique took the pillowcase upstairs and placed it with the other one, then quietly crept downstairs, and into the dark recesses of the hallway leading to her father's study.
Kenneth and Edward were deep in conversation and playing the game, when Obadiah excused himself to go to the loo. As he stepped into the short hallway that led to the facilities and Edward's offices, he saw a slight movement in the darkened corner.
Closing the door quickly, he walked to the area, and was met by Angelique. "I've been waiting for you," she whispered.
Obadiah stepped closer to her. "Here I am," he murmured in a hushed tone, his voice low and husky. "What is it?"
Angelique stepped into his arms. "Kiss me, kiss me again," she demanded breathlessly.
Obadiah placed his hands on her waist as she drew closer to him. His lips crushed against hers, and she stepped even closer, winding her hands into his hair at the base of his head. He peppered kisses across her face, lost in the scent of her heady perfume, and the sounds of the slight gasps she was making.
"Angel, my angel," he whispered as he kissed along her jaw line, until he reached the spot behind her ear. She gasped, and tightened her hold on him.
"Oh, Obadiah," she breathed out passionately. "I love you, I love you. I will marry you. I want to be your wife."
His hands gripped her waist as hers traveled to his shoulders, pulling him closer. He felt himself growing hard as she caressed his ears and kissed his mouth once again. Groaning softly as he kissed her neck again, he pulled her closer.
A slight noise from the other room brought them back to their senses, and Obadiah moved into action, quickly stepping into the loo. Angelique slipped back into the recesses of her father's office moments before the study door opened.
Obadiah stood against the door, panting harshly, as he prayed for control over his overwhelming need. Willing his eager body into a semblance of control, he whispered, "Down boy, control yourself." His thoughts turned to her innocence, and he knew he didn't want to frighten her. He had to be careful.
Pushing himself away from the door, he paced the small confines of the room, grumbling. Then, standing still, he listened for any more movement coming from the hallway. Suddenly, he heard her voice whispering through the door, "It's all clear now, Obadiah. I love you."
He heard her soft footsteps as she walked past the door, and back to the parlour. He stood in the room for a few moments more, then exited, and went back to the study.
Stepping into the room, he heard Edward mentioning the weather. "What's that, sir? What about the weather?"
Edward looked over at him. "Dorthea just informed me that the wind has picked up, and that the snow is piling up. Looks like we have a blizzard on our hands."
Obadiah looked over at Kenneth. "Sir, we should be leaving before it gets worse."
Edward shook his head. "No, son, that is what we were discussing. It's too bad for you to leave."
"But, sir..."
Kenneth held up his hand. "Son, Ed here has offered for us to stay the night. He's already sent Felicia to make the room ready."
Obadiah nodded. "Are you sure, sir? We wouldn't want to impose."
Edward shook his head. "Nonsense, it's all taken care of."
Obadiah sat back, and watched as the two men resumed their game, the matter settled. His mind was in turmoil as he thought about staying under the same roof as his Angel.
He felt his body stir once more, and shifted uncomfortably. It was gaining eleven when they finally called it a night.
Edward opened the study door, and the three men exited the room, walking toward the parlour. Dorthea and Angelique were sitting there, talking and knitting. Dorthea looked up as the three stepped into the room. "Everything is ready, Obadiah, Bishop. This way, please." She led them into the hallway, and started upstairs. At the top of the stairs, there was a loo, and off to the left, a bedroom.
Dorthea turned left at the top of the stairs, and led Obadiah and Kenneth into the large room. There were double beds in the room, a dresser, chair, and a cozy fire had been started in the fireplace. There were nightshirts and robes on each bed, and a wash stand with towels and flannels.
"Here you are. I hope you both have a restful night."
"Thank you, Mrs. Rhys," Obadiah responded.
Closing the door, Obadiah turned around and looked at Kenneth. "What about Charlie?" He questioned suddenly, and started for the door.
"Son, Edward had him placed in their barn," Kenneth assured him.
Obadiah nodded. "Of course."
He began to remove his coat and vest, hanging them in the closet. He sat on the bed, and began to remove his shoes. He removed his shirt, and placed it in the closet. Donning his nightshirt, he then removed his trousers, and hung them over the chair.
Kenneth followed suit, and as the two settled into their beds, he reached over and turned out the lamp, throwing the room into darkness, save for the glowing embers of the fire.
center* * * */center
Angelique settled into bed and turned on her side. Thinking about the man just down the hall, she sighed, wondering if he was asleep. She thought about how he'd looked while asleep when he'd been down in the study. iJust like a little boy./i She smiled into the darkness.
She was restless, and sleep evaded her as she tossed and turned, her thoughts never far away from Obadiah. She could still feel his kiss, and the way he'd held her close, whispering in her ear. She rose, donned her robe, and peeked out into the hallway. Just one glimpse of him sleeping, that's all she wanted.
Padding down to the short stairs, she stopped when she saw him step out of the loo. He looked up at her, startled at seeing her in her nightdress. "Obadiah," she whispered as she started forward.
Obadiah held up his hand. "Stop, Angelique," he whispered hoarsely.
"But, I want..." she began.
"Angelique, go back to your room. Please, go back to your room." His voice was rough with emotion. Hester Castle was just coming up the back stairs from the kitchen when she stopped into the shadows. She had a full view of her granddaughter and the young minister. She could hear him telling her to go back to her room. Angelique, being Angelique, was arguing with him. He shook his head, and walked toward the room he'd been assigned.
Hester stood a moment longer and watched as her granddaughter walked reluctantly back to her room. Coming out of the shadows, she stood on the landing and smiled.
Her respect for the young man went up considerably, and she vowed to tell Dorthea of her newly found admiration for the young man.
center* * * */center
By the next morning the blizzard was over, but the streets were almost impassable. They were being tended to by several citizens, and the cleaning crews of Hammersmith proper.
Foster Lane had been cleared down to Cheapside Lane, and over past the church all the way to Cannon Street. Dr. Rhys had set out for the hospital, only to turn back when it was found that St. Martins street was still blocked by snow drifts. He came back to the house and informed the group during breakfast of the road conditions.
Obadiah looked across to Kenneth. "Perhaps we should try and get to SunnyGlen, and check on Mother," he suggested. Obadiah looked over at Kenneth, and then to Edward. "Sir, what do you think?"
Edward shook his head. "Obadiah, she is fine, and the roads there are clear. I was over that way before trying to get to the hospital."
Kenneth spoke up then. "Son, we will go there before we head back to the parsonage."
Obadiah nodded, and continued with his breakfast. Angelique reached for her napkin, unfolded it, and placed it in her lap. She slid her hand over to rest on Obadiah's leg for a brief moment, then she picked up her fork and began to eat.
Obadiah couldn't complete the action of placing his spoon back into his oatmeal bowl. He was so startled by Angelique's touch that he had a momentary lapse in judgment as to what he was supposed to be doing.
He looked over at her; she smiled at him and continued to eat her meal. iDoesn't she know how it makes me feel when she does that?/i
iNo, she doesn't./i came that small voice inside his head that sounded just like Kenneth. He looked over at the man, and found him deep in conversation with Maggie.
Edward was sipping his coffee, while Dorthea and Hester chatted between themselves. Obadiah swallowed his sip of tea, and continued to eat. Angelique smiled as she watched from the corner of her eye, noting the way in which Obadiah responded to her caress. She wanted to kiss him again, like they had last night, but knew that it would be impossible this morning. She would just have to wait for another opportunity, where they could be alone for a few moments. Smiling to herself, she took a sip of tea, and sat back.
After breakfast, the men donned their cloaks in preparation to leave. Angelique walked with Obadiah to the hallway and over to the cloak tree, waiting while he donned his cloak. She stood smiling at him, studying his face, his eyes, that regal nose, and those lips. How she wanted to kiss him again, and be held by him once more! But she knew that here, where others might see them, was not the right time. She sighed loudly as she watched him, his every movement sent shivers all through her.
Obadiah turned and looked at her. Smiling, he stepped toward her. Taking her hand in his, he kissed it. Gazing into her expressive, green eyes, he caressed her hand.
Reluctant to let go, yet knowing he must, he finally relinquished his grip, and stepped back.
Angelique looked back toward the parlour door, and then stepped closer to him, and caressed his face.
"I love you, and I will see you later," she whispered.
"Will you be at SunnyGlen today?"
"Yes, I am planning on going there. I have at least two new residents coming today."
"I will see you later, then." He nodded his goodbye, turned and walked out the door.
Kenneth and Edward stood talking as Obadiah approached the buggy. Edward bid the two farewell, and walked back toward the house as Obadiah and Kenneth drove away.
"Nice family, son, I really like Edward," Kenneth remarked quietly. Obadiah nodded, and continued to drive down the lane. "I hope Esther wasn't too worried about us last night. She commented that she is comforted by seeing us standing at the window each night."
Obadiah smiled. "It makes me happy to see her before I retire, too." Kenneth nodded, and the two rode the rest of the way in silence.
Reaching SunnyGlen, they pulled underneath the awning, and climbed down. Obadiah tied the horse to the post, and the two men walked into the building. Esther was in the dining room, sitting with Kathleen, when they walked in.
"Good morning, Mother, Happy Christmas," Obadiah called out.
Esther turned, and started to rise to greet her son. "Stay there," Obadiah said as Kenneth came walking in behind him.
Esther smiled at her two men. "Happy Christmas to you both." She gestured toward the remaining chairs at the table. "Sit here, have some coffee or tea."
Kenneth leaned close, and kissed her. "Had our coffee already, dear; Happy Christmas."
"Yes, we had our coffee already, Mother. We came to visit with you."
Esther looked from Obadiah to Kenneth. "By the way, why didn't I see the candle in the window last night? Were you two so engrossed in a chess match that you forgot to go to bed?" she teased, her eyes twinkling brightly.
Kenneth grinned. "No dear, we weren't at home last night."
"Weren't at home? Where were you, then?" she asked, a puzzled expression on her face, and worry lines forming on her brow. Her curiosity piqued, she sat and waited for an answer.
"We stayed the night at the Rhys' house," Obadiah supplied.
"Oh, I see." She turned her gaze on Kenneth. "I heard the roads were blocked."
Kenneth nodded. "Yes, the blizzard hit while Obadiah and I were at the Rhys' home. We would have been stranded, and probably frozen to death, had we not stayed."
Esther held out her hands to the two men. "I'm glad you both are safe. I don't quite know what I'd do if I lost you."
Obadiah looked at her. "Mother, that isn't going to happen."
"Well not right away at least." She smiled at her son, and then brought his hand to her face, and hugged it close.
Obadiah and Kenneth walked Esther to her room, where they sat talking. "Oh, son, I heard from Nancy Preston! She is engaged, and wants to know if you could perhaps perform the ceremony?"
"Really? That's very nice. Who is she marrying?" he enquired, his eyebrow arching elegantly in curiosity.
"Why, Alexander Hughes of all people!" Esther exclaimed. "Can you believe it? The superintendent of Brookgreen."
Obadiah looked shocked, but smiled. "That's really something, isn't it?"
Esther smiled as she looked over at Kenneth. He was listening intently, and smiled at her. Obadiah could see from his expression that he wanted to be alone with her for at least a few moments.
He excused himself. "I believe I will go and see if Angelique is here yet." Nodding to the pair, he turned and exited the room. Strolling down the hallway, he smiled as he thought about his mother and Kenneth acting like a pair of teenagers.
As he passed the recreation room, he looked in and saw it was empty, save for one occupant: his Angel. He walked over to where she stood, gazing out the window toward the field beyond. He came up behind her, and peered over her shoulder, their cheeks touching.
"Tuppence for your thoughts," he whispered.
She smiled. "I told you once before, they are worth more than that."
She turned and stepped into his arms, placing her hands on his shoulders. His hands went immediately around her waist, and they stood there, looking into each other's eyes.
He brushed her lips in a brief kiss, and then pulled back. "I love you, my Angel. Happy Christmas."
Angelique rubbed his nose with hers. "I love you, Obadiah. Happy Christmas." She drew back. and caressed his cheek.
He had the sudden urge to kiss her again. He cast a glance toward the door before drawing her away from the window, and over to a spot that was hidden by a large plant. He reached out and caressed her cheek. "I want to kiss you again, my Angel."
"I feel the same way." She gazed into his intense eyes, then stepped even closer to him.
He brought his hand to her face in a gentle caress as he leaned forward and kissed her. His lips traveled from her lips, to her cheeks, and back. Her hands were gripping his shoulders as she gasped. He stopped, remembering where he was, and stepped back.
"What is it, Obadiah?" she asked as she looked at his face.
"I don't want to do anything to compromise your reputation. I want everything to be proper," he replied.
Angelique caressed his face. "You won't do that, I know you won't."
"Angel, other people might, and this is a public place," he whispered urgently. Stepping from behind the plant, he held her hand and led her to the settee.
"We will have another opportunity. I dare say Boxing Day will prove quite interesting."
She laughed then, and hugged him. "I think you might be right."
He looked into her eyes and searched her face. "I love you so much. I never dreamed I'd ever find you in Hammersmith."
"God knew we needed each other, and he worked it out," she whispered.
"I'm going to talk to your father after Boxing Day," Obadiah announced softly.
Angelique looked a bit puzzled, then it dawned on her just what he intended. Her eyes grew wide, and she reached out, and hugged him close. "Are you certain?" She anxiously searched his face.
"I most certainly am," he declared firmly. "I want you to be my wife, and I plan to ask your father for his blessing." Tears formed in her eyes, and spilled onto her cheeks. "Don't cry, Angel. Please, don't cry," he whispered as he brushed her tears away.
"I'm just so happy, Obadiah!" she explained. "I have loved you since we first met." She searched his handsome face and smiled. "I knew at the end of that coach ride, that there would never be anyone else for me. If God had not put us together, well, I would have remained single."
Her words tore at his heart. This woman would have remained true to him, even though he'd never have known. His eyes misted as he took her face gently between his hands. "I'm glad we found each other again," he whispered, daring to place one more brief kiss on her lips.