Here Come The Brides, Story 7, Prequel, A Better Understanding,

by April D. Wade

Unable to sleep because of a nightmare, Amie Stempel begs her father for a story...but not just any story; Amie wants to know about her daddy as a little boy and as he grew up. Finally, Aaron agrees and tells his daughter the story of his life that no one knew before; filling in the details that everyone wondered, and few speculated about. Now, the story is finally told.

Chapter 1

Leaning over his desk, focused on the stack of paperwork waiting for his time and attention, Aaron Stempel sighed heavily at the amount of work he had to catch up on. For the last three days he had remained home with his family to help care for his children, Jacob, Amie, and Alex, while his wife, Jemma recovered from a near case of pneumonia. Although Julie, Candy, Lottie, Peggy, and even Biddie had offered to help care for the children until Jemma was well, Aaron had declined their offers of help, save for the meals they prepared for he and the children, citing that it was his place to care for his wife and kids. So far, he'd managed to hold down the fort pretty well with just an occasional visit from Lottie to check on things. Of course, since Jacob and Amie, at six-years-old, were now in school, he only had Alex and Jemma to care for during the day, and since their meals were taken care of by the other women of their family, Aaron had a much easier time caring for his wife and children than what he could have had otherwise. And, between Harve, Jason, and Jeremy the day to day running of the mill was kept on track; even the paperwork was kept up thanks to Jason bringing him the latest batch of documents to be dealt with each evening. Once he was certain Jemma and the children were settled for the night, Aaron would seclude himself in his study and spend a couple of hours working on whatever paperwork Jason had brought him to have it ready for his brother-in-law to take back the next morning.

Aaron was so engrossed in the figures he'd been concentrating on that he found himself startled by the slight creak of his study door as it was pushed open a little wider. Glancing at the small mantle clock on the bookshelves, Aaron sat his pencil down before laying his arms across his desktop and pursing his lips to lightly fuss;

"Amelia Carleecia Stempel, it's after ten o'clock, what are you doing out of bed?"

Rubbing her eyes with her small fists, Amie shuffled farther into her father's study to sleepily explain;

"I'm sorry, Daddy, but I had a bad dream. I was gonna go to Mommy, but she was sleepin and I don't wanna wake her up cause she's tryin to get well."

Her eyes growing large with concern, Amie offered her father a look of contrition before pleading;

"Please don't be mad at me, Daddy, it was a really scary dream."

Pushing his chair back from the desk, Aaron opened his arms in invitation before shaking his head as he admitted;

"I could never be mad at you, Princess, especially not for being scared and not wanting to wake Mommy when she's sick."

Settling his daughter on his lap, Aaron cuddled her close before kissing the top of her head and asking;

"Would you like to tell me about it? Sometimes when you talk about it, it's not nearly as scary."

Leaning back to look into her father's face, her own eyes shining with her tears of fear, Amie confided;

"I dreamed about how that mean lady pulled me down into that hole again, Daddy."

Aaron nodded his understanding; ever since Patricia Vanderhoff had abducted her two years before, and knowing what her mother went through to stop the woman who had been such a threat to their family, Amie had suffered from a reoccurring nightmare. Thankfully, once she realized that she was safe and secure, the dreams seemed to have stopped. But, every once in a while, usually whenever Jemma was ill, Amie had a tendency to suffer from the same dream, at least until her mother would recover. Lifting his hand to push her hair over her shoulder, Aaron offered;

"I'm sorry you had that dream again, baby, is there anything I can do to help make it better?"

Placing her finger against her small mouth as she gave her father's question some thought, Amie's somber expression lifted a little as she suggested;

"Could you maybe tell me a story, Daddy?"

Deciding that he had gotten through more than enough paperwork for the night, Aaron nodded;

"I think I can do that. How about we go upstairs and I'll tuck you in and you can tell me what sort of a story you'd like."

Shifting her to lay against his shoulder, Aaron rose from his chair and made his way upstairs to his daughter's room. Just after the incident with the woman who had tried so desperately to break their family apart, Jemma had finally agreed to his suggestion to build a bigger house, a move that found Amie with a room of her very own. He was about to put her in her bed when she shook her head;

"Can we sit in the rocking chair for a little while, Daddy; please?"

Unable to deny such a simple request, Aaron chuckled;

"Of course we can, Baby Girl."

Once they were settled in the padded rocker, Aaron asked;

"Alright, baby, what kind of story would you like to hear?"

Pursing her small mouth in an expression that reminded him for all the world of his wife, Aaron looked at her in shock as she pondered;

"Well, Daddy, we know all about when Mommy was little, but we don't know anything about when you were a little boy."

Lifting one eyebrow in amusement, Aaron denied;

"I was never a little boy, Princess."

Returning his look of sarcastic amusement with her own that was a perfect combination between his and his wife's expression when they exercised their sarcastic side, Amie pointed out in, what she considered, perfect logic;

"Every man was a little boy, Daddy! Auntie Julie says that Uncle Jason is proof that some men still are sometimes."

Laughing at the comment, Aaron agreed;

"I think your Auntie Julie's right."

Seeing her father laughing, Amie pushed;

"Come on, Daddy, please tell me about when you were a little boy."

Looking up at him with her eyes full of pleading and a slight smile that she knew her father couldn't resist, she begged;

"Please, Daddy, you said you wanted to help me forget the bad dream and I'd like to know about when you were little."

Knowing that he could no more deny his daughter anything than he could stop breathing, Aaron sighed in resignation as, giving in to Amie's pleas, he tried to decide on the best place to start. Finally, letting his memories from early childhood flow forward, Aaron decided on the best place to start his tale.

1835

The morning, as usual for the time of year in Seattle, dawned with a chilly dampness that seemed to cling to everything around it like a smothering blanket, especially given the mists of fog that hung just above the ground, almost as if they were specters sent to haunt the Great Northwest. Had he been out traipsing the wooded path by himself, the little boy might have been somewhat spooked. However, tagging along behind his father gave the child a sense of security that bolstered his courage, at least enough to bravely face the imaginary goblins that might be waiting behind a random tree, eager to pounce on him at any moment. Noticing the way his son warily searched the woods that lined either side of the path that led to the sawmill, George Stempel did his best to hide his amusement at his five-year-old son's attempts to prove just how brave he was, especially considering how seriously the boy was taking the matter. Stopping, he knelt down to place his hand on his child's shoulder as he reminded him;

"You know, Aaron, you didn't have to come to work with me today, son, you could have stayed at home and helped your mother; I know she likes your company and she's been giving you your lessons."

Ruffling his son's hair as he looked in to his eyes, George couldn't help but think of just how much of a combination the boy was of he and his wife, with hair and eyes that were just as dark, if not even darker, than he and his wife, Amelia's, were. He wasn't surprised when his son shook his head before declaring;

"I know, Mommy likes for me to be home with her, Daddy, but you said that it was important for you to teach me about what you do. Sides, Jason already goes to work with his father and he's a year younger than me."

George scowled somewhat;

"Jason? Do you mean Jonathan Bolt's boy?"

Aaron nodded eagerly;

"Yes, sir. He was tellin me how he goes to the logging camp with his father so he can learn all about the lumber business. I wanna learn about your job, Daddy so I can work with you like Jason does his father."

Standing, George offered, along with his hand, a smile filled with pride and love for his son;

"Alright, Aaron, let's get to moving then. We can't set a bad example for the men who work for us by being late, now can we?"

Happily slipping his hand in his father's, Aaron's small face broke out into a broad grin of delight at the prospect of spending the day with his father before shaking his head, taking his father's words seriously;

"NO SIR! I sure don't wanna set a bad example my first day working with you."

Once they reached the mill, George found his attention focused more on the business of the day and less on his son. However, thanks to his foreman, Ira Mulligan, Aaron was kept busy 'helping the men' by clearing away the pile of scrap wood after the wood was milled. Much to Ira, and the other men's amazement, the young boy was so eager and intent on doing his share of the work that a piece of scrap would barely hit the floor before it was cleared away. Even more surprising was that, noticing the finished lumber beginning to pile up, Aaron had taken the initiative and began moving the boards to their designated place, something that took Ira and the men by surprise when they realized what the boy was doing. Taking a moment, Ira stood and simply watched as the young boy would take one end of a board and drag it to the pile before lifting the other end to stack it as neatly as possible. Having noticed the same thing, one of the mill hands, Archie Courtland, approached Ira to state his curiosity and his amazement as he expressed his admiration;

"For a little fella, he sure is determined, ain't he, Ira."

Watching the boy with a practiced and knowing eye that came along with his fifty years of age, Ira, his Irish brogue thick, gave his opinion;

"Aye, that he is! I've seen a many a youngun in my day, but that's a boy who's gonna be makin his mark in the world."

Pulling his well-worn, and well-loved pocket watch from his front pocket, Ira scratched his graying pate as he addressed the younger man;

"Archie would ya mind lettin the crew know it's break time?

Motioning towards Aaron, Archie laughed;

"You think you can pry him away? He's pretty industrious."

Clapping the man, who although thin and wiry was as strong as an a twenty-mule team, on the shoulder he met his co-worker's blue eyes that held a look of amusement, Ira, his own eyes of the same hue reflecting the same thoughts, chuckled;

"Aye, he'll take a break, even if I ave to sit on him to make him do so."

Determined to prove his worth, Aaron had thrown all his energy and attention into making himself as useful as possible. So it was no wonder that, as focused as he was on the task of stacking the finished boards, he didn't notice the men wandering away from the work area as break was called. It wasn't until he felt a steely hand on his shoulder, startling him, that he realized he was the only one who hadn't left for a break. Looking up into the foreman's weathered face, Aaron couldn't help but compare the man to a sort

of giant; although, despite the man's gruff Irish brogue and no-nonsense demeanor, he found him interesting and even entertaining. Lowering his head and holding his hands clasped behind his back, he confessed;

"I guess I kinda didn't notice everybody left."

Offering the boy a warm smile, Ira praised;

"So it would seem, lad. Come along then, you've earned yourself a true working man's break right enough."

Noticing George Stempel standing in his office doorway, as if searching for someone and having a good idea just who that someone was, Ira motioned towards where Archie sat with his lunch pail before suggesting;

"Lad, why dontcha go over and have yerself a seat with Archie over there. I've brung a real treat today; me wife made a ton of fried chicken for supper last night, so I've got way more than I can eat. So, I'm hopin that ya can eat as well as ya work, otherwise me missus may well have some hurt feelings, what with thinkin her cookins not up to measure."

Seeing the eager grin that lit the little boy's face, Ira wasn't surprised as he took off like a shot in Archie's direction. Taking the opportunity he'd created, Ira approached his employer, shaking his head at just how close a resemblance the son bore to the father as he called out;

"Mr. Stempel, a word if I might, sir."

George had ventured from his office in search of his son, feeling guilt ridden that he'd gotten so engrossed in his work that Aaron had been forced to entertain himself. Thankfully, as he knew would be the case, his son had made his way into the mill; but knowing Ira's temperament and personality he wasn't worried. So the foreman asking for a moment of his time came as no surprise, something that found George nodding;

"Sure thing, Ira, what can I do for you?"

Motioning to where Archie sat, offering Aaron a piece of fried chicken, Ira gave his boss a run-down of his son's morning so far, something that found George staring at the man in astonishment. Shaking his head, he admitted;

"I knew my son was stubborn, but I never knew he was THAT stubborn. Of course, considering how mule-headed his mother and I can be, I suppose I shouldn't be surprised, should I?"

Ira couldn't help but laugh as he pointed out;

"Well, as far as qualities go, Boss, there are a lot worse things to be than stubborn and determined. But considering just how hard working he seems to be, I think that boy of yours is gonna do ya proud."

His hands on his hips, George shook his head as he pointed out;

"I suppose that's true enough, Ira. But one things for sure, considering he's such a combination of me and Amelia, not to mention just how smart he seems to be, He's going to need a strong girl to keep him in line when he gets ready to get married."

Nodding, Ira agreed;

"Aye, that he will, but he's got a wee bit of time fore he has to worry about which lucky lass he'll say the vows with. But, for today, he's not in the way any, and he seems to be happy to prove his worth, in fact he's actually proving himself a big help. I'll keep an eye out for the lad, Boss."

Studying the look of delight on his little boy's face as he sat, eating, with the other men, George offered a flimsy argument;

"But he needs a proper dinner, Ira."

His face taking on a good-natured scowl, Ira fussed;

"And would ya be saying that my missus doesn't pack a proper lunch, now?"

Seeing the worry in his employer's eyes that the man might have insulted him, Ira held his hand up as he laughed;

"Don't be worryin none, I was only pullin yer leg. But in all seriousness, I can promise he'll not go hungry. Me missus always packs way more than I can ever eat, and today there's fried chicken, biscuits, hard-boiled eggs, and even a big slice of apple pie. So ave no worries that the lad'll go hungry."

Placing his hand on George's shoulder, Ira lowered his voice as he became serious;

"Aside from that, he's done more than his fair share of work today and he's earned his place...and his right, to eat with the men. Don't be shamin him into thinking he was 'just kept busy', let him enjoy what he's earned."

Taking a moment to study his son, who was laughing as Archie juggled a couple of hard boiled eggs before tossing one to Aaron, who caught it eagerly. George couldn't help but think of how he and his wife had been working towards achieving just what he was seeing in their son now; fun and laughter, something that had seen them eager to become better acquainted with Jonathan and Julietta Bolt, given that their son, Jason was just a year younger than Aaron. Having noticed just how easy going and happy the boy seemed to be, his wife, Amelia, had pointed out just how much Aaron might benefit from the chance to have a playmate such as Jason. Finally, seeing the wisdom of Ira's suggestion, George nodded;

"Alright, Ira, if you think it'll be okay, then I'm sure it'll be just fine, just make sure he keeps clear of the saws. But, if he should get in the way just send him to me."

Despite his preoccupation with his work, George found himself glancing at his watch periodically, waiting for the end of the work day to arrive. Although he wanted, more than anything, to check on his son's progress, George knew that the best course of action was to refrain from doing so. Seattle was still in it's infancy and the last thing, given the hard work and determination it was going to take, that his son needed was to garner the reputation, or title, of being a 'Daddy's boy', or considered to be riding his father's coat-tails; so, to that end, George forced himself to focus on his work until the bell was rung, indicating it was time to end the work day. Waiting at his office door as the men filed out of the mill area, George couldn't help but notice how there wasn't one man who failed to pat Aaron on the back and offer their praises of just how well they thought he did working with them. Walking the path towards home, George opened the discussion;

"Son, I'd like to ask you a question; how did you like working at the mill today?"

Giving serious consideration to his father's question, Aaron bit at his bottom lip for a moment before turning to look at his father, his face bright with his happy smile as he answered;

"Well, it was really hard work, Daddy. But, I liked that I was able to help the men and they treated me just like I was one of em."

George found himself surprised as, stopping to turn and face him, his son turned serious as he pointed out;

"Daddy, I know that you want me to learn to do what you do, but I also know that, if I'm gonna understand everything, I gotta learn everything. Sides, you always says that ya can't ask any man who works for ya to do something you don't know how to do, or ain't willin to do yourself. I wanna learn how to do everything so that way, I can work with the men who'll work for me someday."

Placing his hand on his son's shoulder, his face a mask of astonishment, George couldn't help but question;

"Aaron, how can you be so certain of that; certain that you'll have men working for you."

Aaron shrugged before stating his certainty;

"Cause, Daddy, I wanna be just like you and you have men working for you, so that means I'll have men working for me."

Noticing how close they were to their house, Aaron grabbed his father's hand as he prodded;

"Come on, Daddy! Mommy said she was gonna make some chicken and dumplins and I'm hungry!"

Later that night, after they had finished supper and had tucked their son into bed, as they were getting ready to retire for the night, George was giving his wife, Amelia, the details of Aaron's first experience at the sawmill. Turning from her dressing table mirror as she finished running her brush through her long, coal, black hair, she took a moment to comprehend just what her husband was telling her; something that found her dark, almost ebony colored eyes, growing large as she shook her head in disbelief;

"But, George, Aaron's just a little boy; why he's practically still a baby."

Noticing the way the little flecks of gold in her dark eyes were gleaming, thanks to the tears she was trying to hold back, George, stood before her, lowering himself to sit on his heels before taking his hand in hers to shake his head;

"Amelia...honey, you have to stop thinking of him as a baby. I know he's only five and still a little boy; but let's face it, sweetheart, our little boy is growing up. Now, we can either make him think this is a bad thing, or we can encourage him. Personally, I'd much rather encourage him, this is hard country and he's going to need that stubbornness and intelligence of his to make his mark."

Sighing heavily, knowing her husband was right, Amelia nodded;

"Alright, darling, deep down, I know you're right. It's just that, it just seems like yesterday I was telling you we were expecting a baby and today he's working at the mill...proving himself."

Determined to make the best of things, especially when those things were what, deep in her heart, she knew was for the best for their child, Amelia lifted her head to ponder;

"So what does all of this mean for Aaron now, George?"

Taking a deep breath, deciding that now was the right time to give voice to what he had been considering since the discussion between he and his son on their walk home, George cleared his throat slightly as he began;

"I was thinking, he seemed to like going to the mill today and the men like and even respect him. So, with that in mind, I think that what we should do is split his time between the mill and here with you doing his lessons. Monday, Wednesday, and Friday he stays home and has his lessons with you; then, Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday he goes with me to the mill."

Seeing the prudence of his plan, Amelia nodded before frowning slightly as she asked;

"But, honey, what if he decides he doesn't want to go to the mill anymore?"

Feeling a pang of sadness at the idea that might happen, George conceded;

"I can't say I'd be happy about that, but if that's his choice I would have to honor it. If he should decide he doesn't want to work at the mill then I won't push the issue; fair enough?"

Closing her eyes momentarily, relieved because she knew that, if her husband gave his word, he'd keep it, Amelia sighed in relief, especially given that she knew that George wanted what was right for their son just as much as she did. Although, remembering what he had told her of a perspective business opportunity, she couldn't help but ask;

"George, not that I'm going to argue with your idea, but if you take on this business partner that's wanting to buy into the mill, do you think he'll oppose the idea of Aaron working with you?"

Shaking his head, George assured her;

"I don't think so, honey, besides, I'm only allowing him a partnership, not complete say in the mill."

Motioning towards their bed, George admitted;

"I don't know about you, but I'm tired and I know I could use some sleep."

After she and George had settled themselves for the night, Amelia Stempel laid awake for sometime, contemplating just what the future might hold for her family, but most especially for her son. Given just how smart he seemed to be, she had been harboring hopes that, she had yet to share with her husband, their child might have the opportunity to further his education, even so far as a university education. However, she also knew that would require sacrifices on, both, her and George's parts; that was the thought she kept in mind as he was explaining his idea to her. She knew that he would never let any harm come to Aaron at the mill, and having him gain knowledge of the family business could only prove valuable to furthering his education. Sighing heavily, she realized this was the bittersweet part of motherhood that her mother had warned her about as a young girl, she could even hear her very words as she advised;

"I know you may not understand it now, Amie, but just remember; when you have children, a part of motherhood that is both a blessing and a curse is when you watch your children growing and realize that you've helped them learn what they must to grow. But the curse is that you realize your children are growing and as they do so, they'll need you less and less. However, if you're very, VERY lucky, they will never stop wanting you to be a part of their life."

Sighing deeply at the recollection as her husband snored softly next to her, Amelia closed her eyes, realizing that her little boy was beginning to take those first steps towards growing up.

1837

Sitting on the finished section of the small, wooden pier that the men of Seattle had been busy constructing, the two young boys sat conversing, having developed a...unique sort of friendship. Although they were quick to argue with one another, both having developed strong personalities and opinions...even at their young age, it never failed that, if one was having a problem, the other was quick to come running to offer their help. Even now, when something bothered one boy they would seek out the counsel of the other. So, sitting on the dock six-year-old Jason Bolt, his lips pursed in thought, asked bluntly;

"Are ya sure ya have ta?"

Sighing heavily, Aaron nodded;

"Yeah, I overheard my folks talkin bout it last night. Papa said that with all the boomin in the railroads and the building industries that it only made sense. Sides I think they wanna have another kid and Mama needs to be where there's doctors and more ladies round, least that's what Papa said. I think Mama wants to go too, not just cause of the ladies and doctors, but she said somethin bout how I needed to get more education...how she's taught me all she can teach me and I need to go to a proper school."

Tilting his head to the side a bit, Jason argued;

"But Mother can teach you proper, she's been giving me lessons and she'd probably give you lessons too. My mother's real smart, she went to good schools in Scotland and she can teach you lots of important stuff."

Despite how his dark eyes lit with the prospect, Aaron's face soon reflected the sigh of defeat he felt as he shook his head;

"Nah, that won't work cause your mother's gonna have a baby; remember?"

Bracing his elbows on his knees, Jason leaned his chin on his fists, his blue eyes fixed on the waves as he wracked his brain, trying to come up with some way to keep his friend in Seattle. Finally, he shook his head before lamenting;

"I'm sorry, Aaron, I keep tryin to figure out something to help, but I can't think of anything, cept maybe asking Father if you can come live with and work with us at the logging camp."

Mimicking his friend's pose, Aaron pointed out;

"Thanks, but my folks aren't gonna go for it; sides, I'd miss Mama and Papa too much. But, Papa did say that, since he wasn't giving up his share of the mill, we'd be back to visit, and maybe even live here again one day."

Turning to the boy he'd considered a friend since he was five, Aaron admitted;

"I'm gonna miss ya, Jason. You've been a good friend, I'm sure that, if I ever come back here to live, we can always be friends."

Sticking out his hand, Jason eagerly nodded as Aaron gripped it in his and shook it vigorously;

"Sure we can, Aaron! Heck, I betcha we'll probably be best friends and pal around like we do now."

Suddenly struck with a funny thought, Jason ventured;

"Ya never know, Mother might have a girl when she has this baby and you might decide ya wanna marry her when you're all grown up; then, we'd be brothers...well, kinda."

Lifting one eyebrow to stare at his friend in amusement, Aaron his head;

"No offense, Jason, but that's the dumbest thing I've ever heard."

Waving his hand dismissively, Aaron laughed;

"Sides, I don't like girls and I ain't ever gonna get married."

Deciding to tease his friend, Aaron promised;

"And even if I did, I'd never marry your sister."

Reaching over to shove him, Jason returned;

"That's okay, Aaron, I'd never let ya marry my sister. But, you might have a sister if your mother has another baby."

Nodding, Aaron agreed;

"Yep, she might, but you ain't never gonna marry any sister of mine, Jason."

Shaking his head, Jason retorted;

"Don't worry, Aaron, I'm not ever gonna get married, and specially not to any old sister of yours."

Deciding to enjoy their time together, rather than dwelling on their impending separation, the two boys stood as Jason proposed;

"Mother made a meat pie last night, wanna go see if there's any left?"

Nodding, as he hurried to catch up, Aaron called;

"Sure, but what is it?"

Shrugging, Jason threw over his shoulder;

"Not real sure. All I know is that it's kinda like a pot pie, but it's real good."

The gears of their child's minds switching from the Stempel's impending departure to the the prospect of a treat, the two boys raced to the Bolt cabin as Jason burst through the door to announce;

"Mother, I'm home and I brought Aaron with me."

Julietta Elysia MacGregor Bolt came from the room she shared with her husband to lightly chastise her son in her Scottish accent;

"Well, it's bout time ya was comin to check in with me, Jason Jonathan Bolt."

Noticing their guest, Julietta smiled brightly as she greeted;

"Aye, bout time you favored me with a visit, Aaron."

Motioning towards the table, Julietta laughed;

"Now, since I know that you two rascals have probably worked yerselves a wee bit of an appetite, why don't ya settle yerselves at the table and I'll just see if there might not happen to be some of that meat pie left from our supper last night."

A few minutes later, Julietta had joined the boys at the table to enjoy a helping of the delicacy her son and his friend had been so anxious to devour. Noticing the puzzlement in her son's blue eyes, she laughingly fussed;

"Don't look so surprised, son. I'll have ya know that when I carried you, I was just as hungry and look how strong ya are. Besides, it's important that I make sure the baby gets everything he, or she needs."

Frowning a bit, Jason couldn't help but demand;

"Ya think the baby's gonna be a girl, Mother?"

Shrugging a bit as she tilted her head to the side, Julietta theorized;

"It's entirely possible, Jason. Why would ya not like a wee little sister ta play with?"

Cutting his eyes towards his friend, Jason teased;

"Maybe, but I was thinkin more like Aaron could marry her when he and she are all grown up."

Understanding that her son was poking fun at the young boy, Julietta tried to ease Aaron's angst as she praised;

"Aaron, might I say something without causing ya too much embarrassment?"

At his silent nod, she leaned forward to place her hand over his as she offered him a warm smile;

"I was just gonna tell ya that, if Jonathan and I were ta have a wee little lass, I certainly wouldn't mind if she were to find herself a husband someday whose a good man. And, since I'm quite sure that you're gonna grow into a fine man someday, I think I'd be proud and happy to have ya for a son-in-law."

Although he was blushing, the young boy took her words for the compliment they were intended, something that found him reciprocating;

"Thank you, Miss Julietta. And I guess that, if you have a little girl and she has hair the same pretty red color as yours, and she's pretty like you are, I guess I wouldn't mind bein married to her."

Taking another bite of the meat pie, Aaron shook his head before adding;

"If I was ever gonna get married, but I don't think I ever will; girls are silly."

Before they could explore the subject any further, the door opened with a decided bang as the Bolt patriarch announced in his booming voice;

"Julietta lass, I'm home. We got all the lumber we promised the mill and then some, so I gave the men a wee break and we stopped work early."

Seeing they had a guest, Jonathan Jacob Bolt greeted;

"And it's nice to see ya, Aaron lad. I was just speakin to yer papa and he was tellin me the exciting news."

Curiosity filling her light green eyes, Julietta turned to the boy to ask;

"Oh, what's the exciting news, Aaron?"

Lowering his head, Aaron sighed heavily as he answered;

"Papa and Mama said we're leavin Seattle."

Noticing the boy's lack of excitement over the prospect, as well as their son's morose expression over the idea of his friend leaving, Julietta locked eyes with her husband's before suggesting;

"Jonathan darlin, why don't you have a seat with the boys whilst I get you a nice piece of meat pie?"

Understanding why she was trying to change the subject, Jonathan nodded;

"Aye, that sounds like a fine idea, love. I've worked up a right proper appetite I have."

Aaron, noticed just how big of a man Jonathan Bolt truly was, not to mention imposing given the stern expression he always seemed to wear, despite his congenial attitude. Glancing between Jason and his father, Aaron understood that, just as he had inherited things from both his parents, so had his friend. It wasn't hard to see that Jason took the brown color of his hair from his father, while he had acquired the waving and curling locks from his mother. Finally, seeing the odd look he was receiving from his hosts, Aaron asked;

"I was just wonderin, Miss Julietta, Mister Jonathan. Well, you're a big man, sir."

Nodding, Jonathan agreed;

"Aye, that I am, lad, but what of it?"

Trying to figure out the best way to say what was on his mind, Aaron speculated;

"Well, it's just that I was thinkin, you and Papa started off little like me and Jason did, didn't ya?"

At the man's nod, Aaron continued;

"So does that mean that me and Jason will grow up to be as big as you and my papa?"

Laughing at the boy's observation, Jonathan leaned over to ruffle the his hair as he speculated;

"I'd not be a bit surprised, Aaron lad. Just mind you two grow up to be good men and the rest will take care of itself."

Finished with their plates, Aaron, noticing the daylight beginning it's daily chore of fading, stood before offering;

"Thank you for the meat pie, Miss Julietta, it was really good. But I guess I better get home before Mama starts worryin. Maybe I can meet up with Papa and walk home with him."

Stopping as he was about to open the door, Aaron turned and asked;

"Would it be alright if me and Jason go fishing before we leave."

At the Bolt's nod, Aaron waved;

"Thank you, see ya later, Jason."

Watching the boy as he left their cabin, Julietta sighed heavily as she gathered the empty plates before shaking her head;

"Poor lad! He's not at all happy about the move, but considering Seattle's all he's ever known, ya can't exactly blame the boy."

Finishing with his plate, Jonathan rose to dump it in the dish water before taking up a towel to help his wife with the dishes as he voiced his opinion;

"Aye, that's the truth of it. But, I can certainly understand Mrs. Stempel's concern over the young lad's education. He's a smart boy, but we don't exactly have a proper teacher here, at least not yet, so I can understand wanting to give him an opportunity."

Glancing towards Jason, who sat at the table practicing his alphabet, Jonathan admitted;

"If it weren't for the fine educations we received back home, I'd be concerned for our own boy."

Placing his hand over her slightly swollen stomach, he chuckled;

"Not to mention this wee bairn's education. But, we have the means to give our children a fine upbringing and a proper education. Still..."

Turning towards his son once more, Jonathan shook his head;

"I know it'll be hard on Jason, not havin his pal around."

Thinking of her earlier discussion with the boy, Juliette laughed as she shared the conversation with her husband, who couldn't help but chuckle;

"Well, considering just how determined, stubborn, and smart the lad is, I canna say that I'd mind given ma blessings if we were to have a wee lass. But, since it'll be a right smart amount of time before we need to worry about chasing off the lad if we ever have a lass of our own, I think we can put our minds at rest. Now, I think it's time for you to get off your feet and rest; I'll finish up here."

Waiting until she settled herself in the armchair near the fireplace, Jonathan turned to finish the dishes, amused at the thought as he shook his head, laughing softly;

"Aaron Stempel as a son-in-law, there's a picture I can't imagine."

1839

Amelia sat in her rocking chair, working on the baby clothes she was trying to make certain were ready for the child she was expecting. Realizing that she was humming as her fingers deftly stitched the fabric together, she lifted her head to glance out the window. Watching as, even in the falling snow, the well-dressed men and women hurried down the sidewalk that bordered the edge of the lawn of the Stempel's New York home. Although when they'd left Seattle more than a year before, She had been worried over what they would find when they reached their destination, especially given how she'd become used to Seattle's society, or lack thereof. However, having been raised in New Orleans, and to a well-to-do family, it wasn't long before she found the lessons of her childhood in etiquette and so forth holding her in good stead with the various people she and her husband soon found included in their social circle. Most were for business reasons, although some were simply because they had been curious about the couple who had lived for so long in the Great Northwest. Even though, to a point, she found it rather tedious, Amelia understood just what it could mean to her husband's business interests and her family's social standing. Most importantly, she tolerated the social amenities for the sake of her son, and the child she was now expecting. She wanted the best for her children, and she was determined to see to it that they had every opportunity possible to achieve and maintain their success in the world; more than success though, she wanted her children happy. She wanted to see them acquire the best educations possible, and when it came time to settle down, she planned on emphasizing the importance of love. Shaking her head, Amelia laughed as she felt her child kick before placing her hand over her swollen abdomen to accuse;

"You little mind reader, you! I can see you're happy Mama married for love instead of standing and money too."

Finding herself remembering just how furious her family had been when she returned to her home in New Orleans on the arm of George Stempel, especially when her father had learned that he was a young, struggling businessman who had intentions of journeying to the little known, but widely feared Washington Territory. However, hearing him so animated and excited as he talked about his plans for the sawmill he planned on building; of course that was in addition to the sparks that seemed to ignite each time they spoke, held hands, and especially when she'd allow him to steal a kiss, she couldn't deny her attraction. Amelia had known, after dancing with him at a cotillion they had both attended, and listening to him speak of his dreams, that this was the man she wanted as her husband. It seemed as if Fate was on the couple's side, especially considering that George felt the same way about her. He had later, after they eloped, admitted that once he took her in his arms to dance and saw the excitement dancing in her dark eyes as he told her about his plans, he knew she was the woman he wanted as his wife. Catching sight of her son coming up the walk, Amelia smiled brightly as she pushed herself up from the chair to greet him as he opened the door;

"Hello, Aaron dear, how was school?"

Placing the satchel he used to hold his books and school supplies on the foyer table, Aaron nodded;

"It was alright, Mama. The teacher said he was happy with the progress I've made in math; in fact, he said that he thinks I have a natural talent for it."

Her face expressing her delight, she leaned over to hug her child before praising;

"Oh, honey, that's wonderful!"

The edges of her lips curling in a smile, Amelia suggested;

"I think we should celebrate! Annie made some cookies this morning, why don't we go have some milk and enjoy a few. And then, when your father gets home and after we have supper, we'll all celebrate with a nice big piece of the cake I made this morning for dessert."

Relieved to see a lull in the slightly stoic demeanor her son had developed since he had begun attending his school, Amelia placed her arm around his shoulders to lead him to the kitchen. After they were settled at the table with glasses of milk and a plate of cookies to share between them, she couldn't help but watch her son, her eyes glowing with the love and pride she felt for him as she considered just how worth it the move had been to see him excelling at his studies the way he was. Something even more satisfying to her was the knowledge of just how right she had been about her son's intelligence, especially considering that, when he'd been tested for placement in the school he attended, he had done well enough to be placed a grade ahead of where he should have been for his age; a fact that pleased his father to no end as he bragged to the school's headmaster;

"The credit goes all to my wife, Mr. Chambers; she's the one who took charge of Aaron's education and gave him his lessons when we were living in Seattle."

Looking over his spectacles at her, as if he couldn't believe a woman had accomplished such a feat. Amelia could see his disbelief soon turn to appreciation for what she had done, especially as he realized just how truly amazing her determination and dedication where her child's education was concerned was once he considered just how limited her resources, compared to what his school offered, really were. Finally, the man who could only be described as a scholarly type, complete with graying hair and a full beard and mustache, gave his nod of approval as he complimented;

"I commend you for a job well done, Mrs. Stempel, the work you invested in your son's education has been a very wise one. I must tell you, Aaron is one of the most intelligent boys I've ever had the pleasure to allow entrance into my school, as well as one of the most serious; something that, if he remains so, should see him excelling in his studies and even, possibly, being promoted through the grades quickly."

Her attention refocused on the present as she felt the baby kick, Amelia found herself marveling as just how accurate Mr. Chambers had proven himself to be as a fortune teller, given that Aaron had been placed in an experimental program that allowed him to proceed through his studies at his own pace and had just recently been promoted, once again, to the next grade. Noticing just how her little boy was eyeing the last cookie on the plate, Amelia gave the small piece of china a slight push in his direction as she encouraged;

"I'm sure you must be hungry, Aaron, why don't you eat the last cookie, besides I don't think your little brother or sister cares very much for oatmeal raisin cookies."

Appreciative of his mother's offer, especially considering he knew that these were her favorite cookies, Aaron rewarded her sacrifice with a smile of genuine warmth and love before picking up the treat;

"Thank you, Mama."

His thoughts dwelling on the subject of his sibling, Aaron quizzed;

"Mama, how much longer until the baby's here?"

Pushing herself up from the table to take their dishes to the sink, Amelia couldn't help but sigh happily at her son's thoughtfulness as he relieved her of the glasses and plate to carry them to the sink for her, motioning for her to sit down. Once he'd seen to rinsing the dishes off and returned to the table, his mother considered his question;

"Well, honey, the baby should be here in just a few more weeks; why do you ask?"

Shrugging lightly, his head lowered, Aaron mumbled;

"I was just wondering, that's all."

Noticing the hint of worry in his eyes...and his expression, Amelia reached out to cup her son's chin in her hand before questioning;

"Aaron, what's the matter?"

When she received no answer, Amelia, realizing the possible reason became more insistent as she theorized;

"Son, are you worried that I won't pay as much attention to you as I do your new brother or sister?"

Lowering his eyes a bit as he lifted his small shoulders, Aaron pointed out;

"It's okay, Mama, little babies need more attention and love; I understand."

Lifting her head a bit and assuming an authoritative tone, Amelia ordered;

"Stand up!"

When he complied with her dictate, she turned her chair to face him as she took both his hands in hers and pulled him closer before wrapping her arms around him in a heart-felt embrace as she explained;

"I want you to listen to me, Aaron George Stempel, and I want you to listen to me good; yes, little babies do need more attention because you have to do everything for them until they learn how to do things for themselves. But, as far as needing more love,"

Shaking her head as she placed a kiss on his cheek, Amelia continued her explanation;

"I promise you, honey, the new baby won't get any more love from your Papa and I, than what we give you. Oh, Aaron, don't you know that, no matter how old you are, or how big you grow, you will always be my first baby?"

Hugging him close she vowed;

"Never think that your father and I don't love you, Aaron, because we do, VERY much. Why, do you have any idea just how excited we were when we found out you were on your way?"

Aaron shook his head as he remained silent, eager to hear his mother's story, especially when he saw the gleam of fond nostalgia making the small gold flecks in her eyes glow even brighter as she continued her tale;

"We had been married for a few months and had just settled in Seattle when I found out that I was going to have a baby; when I told your father he was so excited...and happy. The night you were born we were so happy, even though your father said that he didn't care if we had a boy or a girl just so long as the baby was healthy, I knew he was beside himself with joy because you were a boy. I thought he would bust the buttons off his shirt the way his chest puffed up with pride when the midwife said you were a boy."

Lifting her hand to stroke his dark hair, she smiled warmly as she recalled;

"I wanted to name you George, after your father, but when I told him, he said; 'No,

Amelia, there's only one name that would suit this little boy; Aaron, it means 'strong',

and that's what I want our son to be...strong.' So, I compromised and we named you Aaron George. Now, considering just how happy we were to have you, do you really think anyone, even a new baby, could take any of the love we have away from you?"

Feeling the weight of his concern lifted from his small shoulders, Aaron's heart felt much lighter as he realized just how silly the thought his parents would love or want him any less because of the new baby was. Impulsively, he reached out and wrapped his arms around his mother to hug her close as he promised;

"I love you so much, Mama"

Pulling back a bit, he offered her one of his brightest smiles before vowing;

"And I'll love my new little brother or sister too, I promise, Mama."

Giving his mother a look full of shy hesitation, Aaron hopefully asked;

"Mama, I know I should be studying and you have sewing to do, but could...maybe, could we play some checkers."

The ends of her mouth curling in a happy and heart-felt smile, Amelia nodded, thrilled for the chance to engage in, what had been, their favorite pastime since she had taught him the game. Pushing herself up from her chair, she made a shooing motion with her hands, before ordering;

"Go find them and set up the board and I'll be right there."

Aaron had no idea of just how happy he had made her by asking for such a simple thing. Once he had engrossed himself in his studies, after their move, Amelia had been certain that playing checkers had been one of those childhood things her son had put behind him, much to her regret given just how much time he and she had spent playing that very game. So, when he asked for the chance to play the game with her once more, for Amelia, it was more than playing a simple game, it was the opportunity to spend time with her child and he with her. That was how they spent the rest of the afternoon and into the evening; playing checkers. Finally, they heard the door open and close as George Stempel announced;

"Amelia, Aaron, I'm home!"

Entering the living room and seeing his wife and son engaged in their almost forgotten hobby, George's face lit with his smile of approval as he observed;

"Well, I haven't come home to this sight in quite some time. So which one of you has won the most games?"

Pointing to their son, Amelia laughed;

"He has, the little rascal's gone and gotten much smarter than I am."

Motioning to the board, she offered;

"Why don't you two finish this game, I need to go see if our supper's ready."

Noticing their maid, Millie's approach as she pushed herself up from her chair, Amelia shook her head as she addressed the young girl;

"That's alright, Millie, I need to stretch my legs anyway, I'll go see how Annie's coming with the meal, but will you make sure the table's set, please?"

Scowling a bit as he noticed the slight grimace cross his wife's face, George asked worriedly;

"Amelia, are you alright? You're not feeling any pain or anything are you?"

Placing her hand on her husband's shoulder, she couldn't help but laugh a bit at his worry;

"George, I'm just fine. The baby is just intent on letting me know he or she is getting anxious to meet all of us."

With that she made her way towards the kitchen to see to their evening meal as Millie followed in her wake to see to setting the table. Turning his attention to the checker board and his son, George invited;

"How about showing your father just how good you are at this game?"

Smiling, happy for the unexpected attention, Aaron nodded eagerly;

"Sure thing, Papa."

Deciding that now was a good time to bring up the thoughts that had been occupying his mind as of late, Aaron requested;

"Papa, can I ask you something?"

Lifting his eyes to meet his son's, George nodded as he reminded;

"You know you can, Aaron, what is it, son?"

Pursing his mouth as he thought of the best way to phrase his question, Aaron began;

"Well, Papa, I was just wondering if I could go to work with you, like I used to when we lived in Seattle and you worked at the sawmill; I want to learn the job you do now."

Shrugging a little, George pointed out;

"Well, what I do now is a lot different than what I did in Seattle, son. You see, now, I sit behind a desk and I read lots of reports and letters from people who tell me about ideas and businesses that, if I invest some of our money into them, might help make us more money. Do you understand?"

Happy to show his father what he had learned, Aaron nodded;

"Yes, sir I do. If you give them some money than, in exchange, they will give you some of their profits."

Impressed with his son's comprehension of the concept, George, his face reflecting his amazed pleasure at his son's intelligence, nodded;

"That's exactly right, Aaron."

Taking his son's intelligence into account, George suggested;

"I'll tell you what, sometimes I have to go take a look at a business that I might consider investing in. How would you like to go with me the next time that opportunity comes up?"

George couldn't help but compare the offer he'd made to his son as the equivalent of offering him a chest full of gold and riches, especially given just how broad the grin of delight his son wore was as he eagerly nodded before jumping up from his chair to throw his arms around his neck as he answered enthusiastically;

"That would be wonderful, Papa, thank you!"

Any reply George was about to offer was silenced as they heard the sound of Millie's rapid footsteps approaching as she rushed into the room to cry out;

"Mister George, come quick, it's Miss Amelia!"

Without a word, George bolted from his chair to run from the room, Aaron following closely on his heels as they hurried to the kitchen. Both stopped short at the sight of their wife and mother lying on the floor, protectively holding the bulk of her swollen stomach in her arms, a grimace of pain marring her features. Falling to his knees next to her, George slid his arm behind her shoulders to raise her up slightly as he begged;

"Amelia, what's wrong, is it the baby?"

Feeling the agonizing pain ebb away, she exhaled a sharp breath of relief before nodding;

"Yes, I think so, it struck so suddenly I collapsed."

Taking his hand in hers, Amelia looked up into her husband's worried face, her own features filled with terror and concern as she confessed;

"George, I think something's wrong, the baby's way too early and the pain is nothing at all like what I experienced with Aaron."

Any hopes he had that this might simply be some false alarm were quickly dashed as a look of undeniable agony crossed his wife's face just before the scream of pain she had been so valiantly fighting managed to escape from between her lips. As dismayed as George felt at the sound of her scream, it was nothing compared to the fright he felt as their son, his eyes wide and his bottom lip trembling in fear, pointed before exclaiming;

"PAPA, LOOK!"

Looking down to where Aaron was pointing, George's heart sank even more at the sight of the small pool of blood that was beginning to spread beneath where his wife lay. Spurred into movement by his fear, George quickly lifted her from the floor into his arms before firing orders over his shoulder as he made his way to the back stairs;

"Annie, get some water to boiling, and then find clean linens. Millie go fetch the doctor and make certain you tell him it's an emergency that Mrs. Stempel's time has come but it's too early. Aaron, run up to our room and pull the bedclothes back for me, when you're done come back down and wait for me in the living room, son."

Anxious to see his mother's suffering eased, Aaron hurried ahead of his father to do as he had been told. He had just finished pulling back the covers when his father entered the room to gently place his mother on the bed. Aaron was about to turn to leave when his mother grabbed his hand to gain his attention as she pulled him close to the side of the bed before placing her hand against his cheek as she reminded him;

"Aaron, promise me you'll never forget what I said to you earlier, about how much your father and I love you."

Although he couldn't grasp the full meaning of her words, Aaron shook his head;

"I won't, Mama, I promise."

Motioning for him to come closer, Amelia kissed his cheek soundly before lifting her head slightly to take the silver cross she always wore from around her neck. Taking her son's hand, she dropped the necklace into his palm;

"Honey, I want you to take this and keep it. And, someday, when you think it's the right time to do so, I want you to give the woman you love that necklace; promise you'll do that for me?"

Despite the feeling of dread he was experiencing, Aaron nodded as he solemnly vowed;

"I will, Mama."

Holding his hand tightly, Amelia smiled sadly;

"You're such a good boy, Aaron, I know you'll grow up to be a good man."

Any response he was going to offer was never given as the doctor rushed into the room followed closely by Millie as his father sternly ordered;

"Aaron, do as I told you earlier, son, go downstairs and wait for me."

Doing as he'd been told, Aaron ran down the stairs and waited in the living room for his father to join him, wondering just what it was that was taking place upstairs as he silently prayed that his mother and the baby would be alright. Despite his worry and the constant noise of Annie rushing up and down the stairs in the kitchen, Aaron had managed to fall asleep on the sofa. However, he became alert as he heard his father's and the doctor's footsteps on the main stairwell, something that found him sitting up, anxious for news of his mother and the baby. Given that he had been anticipating hearing his father and the doctor discussing how well his mother and new sibling were doing, the words he heard had the same effect as if he'd been doused with a bucket of ice water:

"I'm very sorry, Mr. Stempel, but, unfortunately, there was nothing I could do. The baby was in an awkward position and your wife had lost too much blood, I wish I could have saved at least one of them."

Watching from the doorway as the elderly physician placed his hand on his father's shoulder just before stating;

"I'm afraid that somethings just aren't meant to be, Mr. Stempel. But you and your son have each other, and you're young enough, I'm sure you'll find another woman to be a good wife to you and a good mother to your boy someday."

Noticing the look of deep sorrow and heartbreak that filled his father's face and understanding just what the doctor's words meant, Aaron became filled with anger at the man's audacity, something that found him running full force at the man as he began pounding on him with his fists as he raged;

"HE DOESN'T NEED ANOTHER WIFE AND I DON'T NEED ANOTHER MOTHER! WE HAVE MAMA, I WANT MAMA! YOU'RE WRONG, MAMA'S GONNA BE JUST FINE, SHE'D NEVER LEAVE ME AND PAPA!"

Taking the boy's wrists gently in his hands, Dr. Fillmore reasoned sympathetically;

"I know you do, son, and I know that, if she had a choice, your mama would never leave you and your papa. But, sometimes, it's just not up to us and we have to accept that, I'm sorry, Aaron but you'll just have to accept what's happened."

Looking to his father for some sort of sign that this was a bad dream, Aaron's dark eyes filled with horror as he snatched his wrists from the doctor's grip to run upstairs, ignoring his father and the doctor's pleas to stop. Bursting into his parents' room, Aaron stopped short at the sight of his mother, laying motionless and pale, in the middle of the bed. Slowly, he approached the bed, noticing as he did how peaceful and beautiful his mother looked with her eyes closed and her hands laying over her middle. Hearing the sound of his father's heavy footsteps, Aaron turned as he entered the room to plead;

"Look, Papa, Mama's just sleeping, she's still here."

His heart breaking for his son...and himself, George fell to his knees next to his child as he slowly shook his head;

"No, Aaron, I'm sorry, son, but Mama isn't just sleeping. You see, it was too early for the baby to come and Dr. Fillmore couldn't help them, she had just lost too much blood. I'm afraid we've lost your Mama, but one thing we can take comfort in; she's with the angels now."

Thrashing his head from side to side, Aaron railed;

"But I want her here with us, the angels don't need her, Papa, WE do."

Unable to bear the look or sorrow in his father's face, especially since it just confirmed what he didn't want to accept, Aaron's shoulders fell as he lowered his head to beg in a small voice;

"Please, Papa, make her come back, please. You can do anything, Mama always says that, please bring Mama back."

Reaching out to pull his son in a tight embrace, George's voice cracked as he confessed;

"Don't you think I would if I could, Aaron? Son, I can't, no matter how much I want to, I just don't have that power, I'm sorry, I wish I could do just that, but it's not in my hands."

George, at the sight of his son openly weeping as he buried his face against his father's shoulder, found he could no longer hold his own tears at bay, something that found him leaning against his child as he opened the flood gates of his sorrow and grief, wondering just how he and Aaron would get along without the one person who helped make their family whole.