True Love for Joshua, Part II

by Denise Dee

Josh and Clara share many ups and downs as their love continues to grow.

True Love For Joshua

Part II

Chapter 7

Jeremy put the original contract back in Stempel's impatient hands. Jason had accompanied him to Aaron's office.
"Look," said Jeremy. "It's a decent likeness, but you can still tell that these are not our original signatures."

Aaron poured over the document in detail.
"Well," he finally replied. "You've got a sharp eye, young Bolt. I still don't understand what this Mr. Smithers had to gain from being so obviously deceptive that we could catch the problem right away."

"Well, I'm no expert on these matters, Aaron," Jason surmised. "But maybe it has something to do with Mr. Smithers being a 'counter-spy' of sorts…? Maybe he was trying to pull the wool over the contractor's eyes as well as our own…?"

Aaron let that thought roll around in his head before replying, "Well, that would make sense, especially if he could divert all the penalty money into his own pockets."
"Yes, it would," added Jason. "And he would come out of the whole business smelling like a rose…"

"Well, I still smell a rat - a Carl Smithers rat," opined Jeremy. The two older men chuckled at that.
"Do we have enough cause to charge him with something?" queried Aaron.
"Not yet," answered Jeremy, "but I think Candy and Biddie are going to see to that part."

Both Jason and Aron looked at Jeremy in surprise. "Candy AND Biddie?" they asked in unison.
Jeremy chuckled a little. "Well, Candy has promised me that she will firmly stomp on Biddie's foot if she dares to give out too much information."

All three men chuckled at that.

ssssssssssssssssss

Mr. Smithers calmly walked up to the dormitory and gently knocked on the door. Candy answered it.
"Oh, hello, Mr. Smithers!," she exclaimed.
"Hello, Miss Pruitt. I have come to collect Miss Cloom to enjoy a walking tour of your fair town."
"Oh, that's just fine," answered Candy. "But, I'm afraid I must accompany you both, for Biddie's recollections are often a bit far from the truth!"
"Well, I can take that into consideration, Miss Pruitt. No need to accompany us."
Candy added, "Well, then, let me go get Biddie. Won't you come in and have a seat in the parlor?"
"Yes, thank you," replied Carl.
Candy ran upstairs and right into Biddie, who was dressed a little too formally for just a walk around town. "Biddie!" Candy remonstrated sternly, "You're going to make him propose to you this very night, looking like that!"
Biddie just giggled, "Oh, my, wouldn't that be wonderful!?"
"NO, it would not!" exclaimed Candy. "You have GOT to consider Carl Smithers as 'The Enemy,' NOT a potential beau for you!"

Biddie finally calmed down after she connected all the dots in her head regarding the 'plan.'
"Oh, all right," she finally admitted. "Just take all the fun out of the chase…"
Candy chuckled, but still reminded her, "Don't forget - absolutely NO mention of this recent contract with the Bolt Brothers Logging Company, do you understand?"
"Yes, indeedy!" Biddie assured her best friend. "Now, may I go enjoy a stroll with Mr. Dreamboat?"
"You certainly may, Miss Cloom. Just don't be surprised if Jeremy and I are strolling right behind you. We can't be too careful here."
Biddie just sighed and went downstairs to meet Mr. Smithers.

Chapter 8

The Fishers, Clara, and Josh were thoroughly enjoying their repast at the restaurant, laughing and chatting like they were already old friends. Joshua noticed that it was already dark outside.
"Oh, no, I missed my window of daylight to return home," he said.
Joseph replied quickly, "How far is Seattle from here?"
"A little over three hours by wagon," replied Josh.
"Well," continued Joseph. "We can't have you showing up at home in the middle of the night, or leave you vulnerable to attacks by savage creatures, can we? Why don't you relax and stay at our house tonight, and get a fresh start in the morning?"
"Oh, well, uh… are you sure I'm not imposing on you two?
"Of course not!" both Fishers exclaimed in unison." You younger folks are always a breath of fresh air in our quiet, sedate lives. We'd be delighted if you'd stay the night!"

"Well, then, I guess I should find a Telegraph Office to inform my brother about this decision."
"No problem there, Joshua," replied Joseph. "We happen to have a Telegraph machine in our home. It saves me a lot of time in getting information into the right hands as soon as possible. Come, let us return home and I'll direct you to the Telegraph Room."
Josh looked at Clara incredulously. 'Is there nothing that these good people don't own?' he thought.

"Wait - this dinner is on me," Josh interjected when he saw Joseph reaching for the bill.
"Nonsense, my boy!" Joseph exclaimed. "We have not had this much fun a quite a long time. It is indeed my treat." He rose to go, after placing several bills on the table.
Clara and Bonnie also rose, and the four ambled down the road back to the mansion.

Joshua walked Clara back to her boarding house before returning to the mansion.
"I can't believe the wonderful evening I just had," Josh said to Clara.
"Every evening that I spend with the Fishers is wonderful to me," replied Clara.
"I can see why…." Josh said softly. They walked the remainder of the way in silence, holding hands.
When they arrived back at her residence, Josh held her tightly and kissed her as he said "sweet dreams, my Princess!"
"I daresay we'll both have them tonight," remarked Clara softly, as she kissed him lightly upon the lips, before disappearing behind the front door of the Boardinghouse.

Chapter 9

Candy wasn't exactly an expert lipreader, but she did her best since Biddie was talking non-stop about Seattle, beginning many of her statements with an emphatic "Oh, yes!"
Candy and Jeremy kept a fair distance from the couple, but Candy was ready to swoop in if Mr. Smithers even happened to look at Biddie funny or ask an uncomfortable question.

"Well so far, so good," Candy whispered to Jeremy after a while.
"How can you tell what she's saying? She sounds like just a buzzing bee to me!"
"Ah, that's the problem with you men, you can't decipher 'woman-speak!' "
Jeremy looked at her incredulously, then burst out laughing.

Apparently, Jeremy's laugh was a little bit too loud, for Mr. Smithers turned around and spotted them. After a first quizzical look on his face, he simply waved to them and steered Biddie to the left path on their trail.
"Uh-oh… " Jeremy confessed. "Me and my big mouth!"
Candy whispered to him, "Well, at least you didn't give us away before this; let's see where they went."
As they were walking past the left turn in the path, they quickly looked in that direction. Nobody was there.
Both of them stopped. "Well, I wonder where…" Candy began.
Just then they heard a woman scream, one who sounded like she was being assaulted. They both raced down the path and found Mr. Smithers hugging Biddie a little too hard, feverishly whispering in her ear, "Why on earth are you just now resisting my charms, Miss Cloom? Am I not devilishly handsome after all?"

Biddie continued to squirm inside his embrace. "Mr. Smithers… Mr. Smithers… CARL!" she yelled at him.
Carl stepped away from her long enough to catch his wits. Fortunately, it was also long enough for Candy and Jeremy to catch up with them.
Candy exclaimed, "Biddie - Biddie! Are you all right?"
"Why, yes I am. Yes, indeedy! I can fend for myself, don't you know…?"
Jeremy asked Biddie, slowly, "Did he hurt you in any way?"
She began answering, "Well, no, he just…"
Candy immediately stepped lightly on her foot. "Biddie, Jeremy just asked you, did Mr. Smithers hurt you in ANY way?" She began nodding her head to prompt Biddie's answer.
"Why…. Biddie felt Candy's foot on her instep, stronger. "Why… well, I was taken aback and wondered if I was going to be violated!" She retorted.
"No, you weren't!" snapped Mr. Smithers. "You were enjoying every second of my attention, and wishing you had more!" He was fairly snarling at her now.

"Well, Mr. Smithers, here in Seattle we don't allow anything harmful to happen to the ladies we brought back from New Bedford, even if it's just threats. I'm afraid you'll have to come with me," Jeremy replied, and reached for Mr. Smithers' arm.
Carl jerked his arm away and emphatically stated, "No, sir, you will NOT!"
By then, a few more townspeople had come upon the scene, including Aaron and Jason.
"What have we here?" demanded Aaron.
"Not a thing - absolutely Not - A - Thing!" proclaimed Mr. Smithers.
Jeremy and Candy both raised their eyebrows as they stared intently at Jason and Aaron.
"Just a possible assault," opined Jeremy.
"Well, we better take no chances; we'll let you spend the night in our jail, Mr. Smithers," replied Aaron. He led Mr. Smithers away, even as he protested that he had done nothing wrong.

"Well, Biddie…. DID he do anything wrong?" asked Jason.
"Oh, my, I wish he had!" giggled Biddie. "He just startled me when he grabbed me and tried to kiss me. I should have let him…."
"Oh, no, you should NOT have let him," reprimanded Candy.
"In fact, we're very grateful you screamed," added Jason. "We need every shred of indecency to follow him straight into the Marshall's arms, Biddie. Now, come along. We'll find some less dangerous surroundings for you."

"Oh, dear - that's what I was afraid of," wailed Biddie, as she was firmly led back to the dorm.

Chapter 10

"Here is our guest room, Joshua. Er - I hope you don't mind me calling you Joshua, my boy, do you?"
"Not at all, sir!" Josh quickly replied. "I've never seen a telegraph machine in a home before, sir. That was very enlightening, and, as you said, very convenient!"
"Yes, well, my business has many deadlines, I'm afraid…

"Here are some pajamas that a previous guest left behind. I'm afraid any nightshirt of mine would swallow you whole!" he chuckled.
"This will do fine, sir. Thank you." They both smiled warmly at each other.
"Well, good night, then. Breakfast is served at 8 a.m. if you can leave for home that late in the morning."
That will be just fine, sir," replied Josh.
"Goodnight, Joshua." Joseph closed the door behind him.

Josh took a deep breath - a very deep breath. Did he just imagine the entire evening, or did Mr. and Mrs. Fisher seem to like him as much as he genuinely liked them? He pondered thoughts of the older married couple and, of course. Clara, as he fell into a blissful sleep.

The next morning, Clara joined the Fishers for breakfast. After a hearty repast of eggs, sausages, and pancakes, Joshua bid the Fishers goodbye as he got the wagon lined up.
"I can't thank you enough for all of your gracious hospitality yesterday," said Josh, earnestly. "The past 24 hours will not be forgotten anytime soon!"
"It won't be forgotten here, either," beamed Bonnie.

"Please tell me you'll come to visit Seattle someday soon," continued Josh, as he checked the horse's straps and driving reins.
"We'll plan on it!" concurred Joseph. Josh picked up Clara and gingerly placed her on the wagon seat.
Everyone waved as the couple left the mansion. Joseph and Bonnie watched them for a while.
"Are you thinking what I'm thinking, dear?" asked Joseph.
"Only if you're thinking that we'll be hearing wedding bells before the end of the year.," replied Bonnie. They chuckled a bit and wrapped their arms around each other as they strolled back into their home.

Josh and Clara were quiet for a moment.
"A penny for your thoughts…?" asked Clara, sweetly.
"There are too many running around in my head for just one penny." They both laughed. "I still can't get over a telegraph machine inside a private home. You said their son was a former student of yours… how old is he now?"
"Well, I shouldn't answer that, on the grounds that it might incriminate me and give you a clue as to how old I am!" Clara laughed.

"Actually," she continued, more somberly, "their son David would have been almost 20 by now…" her voice trailed off wistfully.
"Would have been…?" Josh queried.

"Yes, he was born with several deformities - some you could see, and others that were internal. His organs did not function well all his life, and one particularly bad episode of pneumonia finally took him a few winters ago."
After a moment of silence, Joshua asked softly, "You care very much about your pupils, don't you?"
"Oh, yes! I have never heard of any teacher not caring about each and every student in their classroom!"

"Well, all I can tell is that your students are very, very lucky to have you as their teacher."
"Thank you," answered Clara. "David had some special needs that required some extra help, so I would go over to the Fishers' house and tutor him, or just help him move his arms and legs if his physical therapist could not come over that day. I think Bonnie was grateful that I did that, but, to be honest, David taught me more than I taught him."

"Ah, children can easily do that, can't they?" said Josh. "I know that the Fishers must have appreciated you beyond all-knowing for going out of your way for their son. He probably lived as long as he did because of your love and care."
"I don't know….." Clara continued. "All I do know is that I'm so glad I got to know Bonnie and Joseph over the years - they have been like parents to me, especially since my own parents died when I was about 12 years old.
"I'm so happy being a teacher, Joshua - each child is different, and each has different needs and abilities. I find that I learn from them as much or more than they learn from me!"
"I'm sure you do - and I've learned a lot about a teacher's gifts and talents just from these two visits up here!" Josh chuckled.
"Ah - here we are, back at your boarding house. I better say adieu and get back to camp before Jason sends a posse out after me!"

Josh quickly went over to her side of the wagon, and gently placed her on the ground. He drew her close to him and looked straight into her hazel eyes.
"Clara, I just can't put into words all that this trip has meant to me. And all that YOU are beginning to mean to me, too." He placed his hands on the sides of her face, and kissed her, gently at first, then with more ardor, until they both pulled away catching their breath.
"Oh, my, Mr. Bolt! You certainly know how to take a girl's breath away!"
"I could say the same thing about you, Miss Porter." They lingered over another deep kiss, then Josh pulled away and said, "I better get going, or I'll never make it home!"
"Be safe, Joshua, and know I am thinking about you every day!" smiled Clara.
"When did you say the school term is over, Clara?"
"Three weeks hence. All I need is one day after that to pack for a trip to someplace called…. Seattle?"
"Yes!" Josh crowed. "Let's set a date for you to come down!"
"How long should I stay?" asked Clara.
"Forever - plus one week!" Josh winked as drove the wagon away from town, waving. Clara smiled broadly as her Prince Charming faded into the distance.

Chapter 11

The Bolts and Aaron were discussing what to do with Mr. Smithers, particularly because the circuit judge was arriving the next day.
"Do you think he'll open up and tell us his m-m-motives?" asked Jeremy.
"Not voluntarily," replied Aaron. "We'll need to find out if my guess about pocketing the penalty money was correct or not."
"But Aaron, we don't have to know that before the circuit judge arrives," said Jason. "He will be under oath, you know."
"Ah, yes, I know," replied Aaron. "I can already tell you that he will have no problems lying on that stand."
"You really think so?" asked Jeremy, who had never lied a day in his life.
"Not everyone is like you, baby Bolt; some treat the witness stand like a playground ride," replied Aaron.
Jeremy got a concerned look on his face.
Jason noticed Jeremy's countenance, and asked him, "What are you thinking, Jeremy? I see the wheels spinning from here."
"Well," started Jeremy, "I wonder if one of the l-l-ladies could get Mr. Smithers to tell the truth before the judge gets here. I imagine Biddie would be willing to try, even though she knows Mr. Smithers p-p-probably doesn't want to see her ever again."
"I have an even better idea, Jeremy," said Jason. "Let's ask Lottie. She's a no-nonsense type of gal, and she has already figured out this weasel. It would be perfectly natural to bring him some lunch…"
"Then, Jason, how do we get witnesses for this event?" asked Aaron.

"The three of us can quietly follow Lottie into the jail, and hide in each corner, away from the front entrance. Then, if he does confess…"
Yes, IF he does," reminded Aaron.
"Oh, I can bet you a dollar that Lottie can charm any snake out of its basket. If she doesn't think she's the best person to do it, then she'll tell us who would be better. Let's go ask her."

The three men walked over to the saloon and went straight to the bar.
"What'll you have, gentlemen?" asked Lottie.
"Some advice, Miss Hatfield," replied Jason. He then began to explain that they needed a confession out of Smithers before the trial even began, and together they hatched a plan to get one out of him. Lottie was comfortable being the "listener," and if she didn't get it out of him the first try, she would send someone else in at the next mealtime to try again.

ssssssssssssssssss

Come lunchtime, Lottie took over a nice meal of fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and a hot biscuit to Mr. Smithers at the jail. Jason, Jeremy, and Aaron tiptoed in behind her and stood in three separate areas, with ears alert.

"Well, Mr. Smithers," greeted Lottie, "I hope you like homemade fried chicken and some side dishes."
Carl didn't realize how hungry he was, so he jumped up to receive the plate. "Oh, Miss Hatfield, you don't know what it means to me not to be totally forgotten in this place."
Lottie quickly opened Carl's cell door and put the lunch on a small table. She immediately backed up and locked him inside again.
"Must you do that, Miss Hatfield? I'm honestly not going anywhere, as you can plainly see."
"We can't take any chances, Mr. Smithers. We have to follow protocol, especially when the circuit judge is due to arrive soon."
Carl sat down and started eating some chicken. "Mmm, Miss Hatfield, this is delicious!"
"Thank you; I can guarantee that it's not poisoned, either," she succinctly stated.
Mr. Smithers dropped the piece of chicken out of his mouth and declared, "You wouldn't….?!"
She smiled. "No, I wouldn't - ever. I just didn't want you to worry about it, that's all."
Carl continued eating and replied, "Well then, guess I won't worry. Although sometimes I wish you could poison me so I don't have to face that circuit judge tomorrow."
Lottie looked at him in alarm. "What makes you say that, Mr. Smithers?" she asked gently.
"Well, in general, I've led an exemplary life. However, this past year or two has found me digressing from the main focus in my job…"
"What is your main focus, if I may ask…?" queried Lottie.
"To deliver contracts and report back to the company, as well as keep them informed on how the project is progressing."
"That doesn't sound too hard," stated Lottie.
"Oh, it wasn't - until they started short-changing me and giving me twice the work for half the pay. Every time I looked at them, I saw nothing but greed in their eyes. It was a miracle that I never turned on them before — Oh!"
"Oh, what, Carl? Go on."
"I did not mean to say as much as I did, Miss Hatfield. I think I am done with lunch now. You may take the plate away."
"All right," said Lottie, who swooped into the cell and quickly closed and locked the prisoner's gate again. However, she kept the plate in her lap as she sat down in front of him.
"Carl," she began.
"Yes, Miss Hatfield?" he answered.
I was just wondering… I think it was awfully wrong of that Oregon company to deceive you in this way. Had you ever thought of charging them for breach of contract?"
"Well, I thought about that," replied Carl, 'But I found a way to 'get back at them' instead."

"Oh?" asked Lottie. "Now, you've really got my interest piqued. Please continue. I've done my fair share of 'hatching plans' when I feel that I've been wronged, too."

Mr. Smithers carefully looked around the jail, and craned his neck to make sure no one else was present. The Bolts and Stempel all held their collective breaths.
"I don't see another soul around," stated Lottie. "Please, go on."

Mr. Smithers took a deep breath, then began. He told her not only about the swapped contract sections, but also admitted that he was, indeed, planning on pocketing the penalty money, which his company knew nothing about, just so he could feel vindicated.

"Well, Mr. Smithers, I hope you tell the circuit judge all this fascinating information. He might sympathize with your feelings about this employer and allow you some leniency."
"Do you think so, Miss Hatfield? Do you really think so?" he beseeched her.
"Yes, I think so. I also think I need to return to my saloon to make sure it's still there!" With that, Lottie took her leave of the jail and its lone prisoner.
Mr. Smithers could have sworn he heard multiple footsteps following Lottie out the door. However, Big Swede came in and manned the Sheriff's desk for his shift. Mr. Smithers just shrugged and attributed the previous footsteps to Swede's entrance.

Chapter 12

If Josh thought he arrived back in Seattle in a dreamy state the last time he went to Tacoma, he was totally oblivious to everyone and everything this time around. Only when Corky yelled "Hey, Josh - watch where you're goin'!" did Josh finally slow the wagon down.
"Sorry about that, Corky!" Josh said apologetically, as he steered the wagon into the middle of the logging camp.

When he arrived at the main tent, he swung down and started handing out the supplies to the various departments, whistling the entire time.

"What are you whistling' there, Josh?" asked Sam.
"Oh - am I whistling? I better make sure I know the song first!" With that, he continued whistling.

"Ah, Josh, you're finally back - I see it took you a while longer than you initially promised…" said Jason, trying to sound stern.
"I know, Jason. We were having dinner with this marvelous couple when I looked out the window and realized that the sun had already set. Joseph - that is, Mr. Fisher - didn't want me to ride back in the dark, so I stayed overnight in their mansion and took off after breakfast this morning."
"Stayed - in their mansion?" queried Jason.
"Yes - mansion! I've got SO much to tell you, Jason; they even have their own Telegraph machine inside their house! That's where I wired you from."

Jeremy strolled up just then. "Oh, boy, you can tell me so much, too - after we tell you that we finally arrested Mr. Smithers."
"You did? On what grounds?" asked Josh.
"Molesting Biddie," said Jason.
"WHAT?!" exclaimed Joshua.
"It's a bit of a long story - let's finish up our day's work, and then swap stories over a tall one at Lottie's," Jason stated.
They dispersed to their designated tasks for the rest of the afternoon.

Chapter 13

The three Bolt brothers sat around a small table at Lottie's, each enjoying a beer.
"Are you SURE you don't want to invite S-s-stempel over to hear all this?" Jeremy asked.
Josh replied, "Let me tell family first, and then we can get busy spreading rumors or what have you.
Jason then turned to Josh and added, "OK, brother - spill it - and don't leave out one tiny detail!"

Josh then regaled them with his history in Tacoma, from both his first trip and his second.
"I tell you, brothers, I have never in my entire life met anyone like Clara. She is smart, beautiful, -"
"…and she lets you b-b-buy her dinner," added Jeremy.
"Yes, she does, and the way she laughs! You'd think there were special golden sparkles reserved just for that occasion, to rain down on us in magical succession."
"You b-b-better watch out for this one, Jason. He is likely to inherit your s-s-silver tongue," said Jeremy with a grin.
"Oh - and the way she handles her classroom! Nothing short of watching a miracle unfold - all the children pay rapt attention to her, and she even says goodbye at the end of the school day by personalizing each student's accomplishments that day; I don't know how she does it!" Josh seemed slightly out of breath, but he continued to grin from ear to ear.

"Tell us about this Fisher family. You said they adopted her?" questioned Jason.
"Well, not literally adopted her, but she got to know them very well after tutoring their special-needs child for several years. She would go to their house - a mansion! - and spend many an hour after school making sure he was caught up in his studies."

"Sounds like she sure is a b-b-busy lady," added Jeremy.
"Not as busy now, though. The Fishers' son died when he was a teen. He wasn't even supposed to live that long. I think all of their TLC is what kept him going as long as he did."

Does she live with them?" asked Jeremy.
"No - she lives in a plain old boarding house - which I haven't even seen, thank you very much."
"Aaahhh," agreed both brothers, in light of Josh's care in keeping her reputation intact.

"Between Clara and the Fishers, I feel like I've almost got a second family in Tacoma now!" crowed Josh.
"Oh, so then, shall I count on you to pick up ALL of our supplies there for the foreseeable future?" posited Jason.
"Yes, SIR! I miss her already. We arranged for her to come to Seattle for a while to visit us after school lets out in a few weeks. I'm hoping she can stay at the dormitory and get to know the girls and Seattle a little bit."
"Sounds like this is not your average three-m-m-month relationship," stated Jeremy, with a sincere look at his brother, who usually paraded girlfriends around like scattered flowers for only a few months at a time, before switching to a new bud.
"Oh, it's not," flatly stated Josh. "It's definitely not….." His eyes got a faraway look in them, and he ceased listening to the chatter around him. All he could think about was the next time he could see Clara.

Chapter 14

In a few weeks' time, the end of school finally transpired, and the children ran out of the Tacoma schoolhouse yelling, screaming, and laughing. They were overjoyed to have the summer away from books and papers and homework.

Josh's heart skipped a beat when he picked up a telegram at Ben's store.
"I'm packing my things right now," Clara wrote. "I hope the stagecoach has wings!"
Josh smiled broadly.

Josh had warned his family not to show up 'en masse' to scare her off. She was much less demonstrative than Candy. Candy, however, was there, along with Jeremy, to welcome her to Seattle. Jason simply stood towards the back of the small group, keeping quiet for the most part.

The stagecoach finally approached the main street and stopped in front of the dormitory.
An older couple with a child emerged, then Clara peeked through the open window and looked around. Josh spotted her immediately and cried out "Clara!" before he raced over to help her out of the carriage. She smiled when she saw him, and he threw the stagecoach's door open and grabbed her around the waist to bring her down to earth - well, the muddy streets of Seattle.

Clara let out a peal of laughter.
"Yup- she really does s-s-sparkle some when she laughs, doesn't she?" grinned Jeremy. Candy elbowed him succinctly and admonished him with an "Oh, shush!" Her eyes were bright and excited to meet this new "possible bride" in town. She had asked Biddie and the other brides to wait in the dormitory and welcome her when she came in the front door.

After Josh planted a brief kiss on her lips, he swung her around and announced: "Clara, meet my family. Family, this is Clara Porter."

The small group broke into individuals who introduced themselves to Clara. Jason politely said "It's a great pleasure to meet you, Miss Clara. I'm Josh's older brother Jason. Welcome to Seattle."
Jeremy introduced himself next: "Hello. Clara. I'm Josh's younger brother, Jeremy, and this is my f-f-fiancée, Miss Candy Pruitt." Candy did a little curtsy for Clara. "We're so glad you came to Seattle!" Candy declared.
"Oh, I've heard so much about you all - how lovely it is to finally meet all of you in person!" added Clara.

"Enough of the introductions! Now, Clara, would you like some refreshment or some rest, or….?"
"Oh, I'm too keyed up to rest, Joshua," Clara said. "But I think I would like a lemonade or something like that."
"On to Lottie's, then!" He took her arm and walked towards the saloon. Clara stopped in her tracks.
"Oh, my," she stated, "I've never been in a saloon before."
"Ah, this is not your average saloon, dear lady," interjected Jason. "This is THE establishment in Seattle that provides food and drinks (of all kinds), holds meetings of the town council, holds court sessions, and is run by absolutely the loveliest owner named Lottie Hatfield. You can even stay in one of the rooms upstairs if you'd like."
"—But I'm hoping you'd like to stay with me and the other ladies in the dormitory, which is right over there." Candy pointed behind her, where a bevy of brides had shown up on the porch to start watching the goings-on.
Clara replied, "Oh, I've heard of Lottie. I look forward to meeting her. And yes, Candy, I think I would like to join you in the dormitory instead of booking a room in a saloon, as nice as I'm sure it is."

There were a few chuckles from the men, as they all strolled into Lotties, and Jason ordered cold drinks all around. Lottie came right up to Clara, took her hands into her own, and warmly said, "You must be Clara. I have been looking forward to getting to know you while you're in town. Will there be lemonades for the ladies and beers for the gents?"

"Ah, Lottie, you know us too well," chided Jason.
"There's not much to guess," she added, "especially when you're the only bar in town!" She swirled around to fetch the drinks. Josh went with her to assist.
"What do you think, Lottie? Is she the most beautiful girl ever, or what?"
"She is very pretty," admitted Lottie. "I think we're going to like having her around here."
"Thanks, Lottie!" He was talking about both her praise and the drinks, which he carefully balanced in both hands on the way back to the table.

The drinks turned into dinner, and the non-stop chatter and laughter brought renewed life to the Saloon. Clara was starting to feel tired, though, and she tried to stifle a yawn.
"Ah, I can see we've already worn you out," Josh stated sympathetically.
"Well, it has been a rather long day for me. Perhaps it would be best if I turn in now, so I can get a fresh start in the morning."
"Your wish is my command!" exclaimed Josh, and he, Jeremy, and Candy rose to escort Clara to the dorm.

The evening air was balmy. There was a slight breeze afloat. It was the beginning of a warm summer.
After making their way to the dormitory, Jeremy led Candy to the door, gave her a light kiss on the lips, and bade her goodnight.
"Goodnight, Jeremy. Sweet dreams," she whispered.
Jeremy turned around and was ready to go when he caught Josh and Clara in a tight embrace, sharing a rather passionate kiss.
"Well, I'm gathering that both of them will have sweet dreams tonight, too," whispered Jeremy.
"I'm sure they will,'" echoed Candy, smiling. After Clara and Josh reluctantly discontinued their embrace, Clara whispered "Goodnight, Joshua. Thank you for the lovely welcome to Seattle." Then she and Candy both disappeared behind the front door.

"Ahhh, little brother, I think I finally know how you felt after meeting Candy."
Jeremy smiled knowingly as they made their way back to their cabin.

Chapter 15

Clara's first week in Seattle melted into several weeks, yet she had no desire to return to Tacoma. The summer had afforded her much freedom - freedom from her responsibilities, freedom from caregiving (to pupils and parents alike), and freedom to feel many new things - love being the most prominent emotion of all.

Josh and Clara spent virtually every day and night together. Jason often had to pester Josh to get back to work, or even to come in to work at all on some days. Even Candy and Jeremy were amazed that the two lovebirds had not begun to tire of each other yet.

One sunny day, Josh wanted to show Clara Bridal Veil mountain in all its glory. As they ascended the East rim, he stopped the wagon at a clearing and helped her down.
"Well, there it is - my legacy: Bridal Veil Mountain!" he said proudly.
"Oh, my - I've seen glimpses of it from town, but it is so beautiful and majestic from here!"
"We hope to keep it in the Bolt family for many generations. It started when my grandfather came out here and bought the land - the mountain - and we have safeguarded it for two generations so far, and we're hoping to pass it along to our children and grandchildren someday."
Clara became very thoughtful. She finally said, "I suppose you want several children, my Prince?"
"Ah, yes, Milady, as many as God will give us, and enough to fill our big house from the front to the back door!" "I see!" smiled Clara, but inside she was not smiling.

ssssssssssssssssss

Later that day, while Candy and Jeremy were out for a stroll, she turned to him and asked, "Do you think we should be acting more like Josh and Clara?"
Jeremy quickly asked "Why? Are you uncomfortable about our relationship in some way?"
Candy replied, "Oh, no - that's not it. I'm very comfortable about 'us ' and how our relationship has evolved. It's just that…." her voice trailed off.
Jeremy quickly got the hint, He moved in closer and wrapped his arm around Candy's waist, pulling her close to him as he whispered, "You'd probably like to show our affection in public more, I bet," as he planted a rather passionate kiss on her lips.
Candy did not pull away, but enjoyed the embrace for however long it lasted. When their lips parted, she sighed. "Well, maybe something like that." She couldn't help but giggle a bit. "But I know that you are uncomfortable being too demonstrative in public."

"Demonstra-what? Am I some kind of monster or something?"
"Oh, heavens, no, Jeremy! Being demonstrative means what we just did - show our affection in public. I know you're a bit shy and quiet about those things."
"Well, if it will make you happy, or happier, I could easily learn to be much more demonster - whatever."
"You could?" she sincerely asked.
"Of course!" replied Jeremy. "Candy, please believe me; every single time I see you, I still want to run up and grab you and hold you tight and yell out to the world "I love this beautiful lady - and she is MINE!"
They both chuckled.
"Well," Candy replied. "You don't have to go quite that far; I don't want to embarrass either of us! Jeremy, you've actually shown me how important it is at times to be quiet and stand back and just listen first. Plus, I enjoy our quiet times together, like just sitting on 'our' rock and staring at the moon."

"Yeah, I like those times a lot, too. It makes me realize that you can be quiet and comfortable with the person you love. There's no need to fill a void with words or nervous chatter and such."
"Hmmm… I'll take a little of the 'and such' if you have some," she smiled.
Jeremy chuckled, "OK, I'll work on surprising you with more 'and such' moments together. Would you like that?"
"Oh, I'd like that very much," Candy replied softly.
Jeremy couldn't help but draw her close again and kiss her deeply. After their lips finally parted, Jeremy took her hand and kissed her fingertips.

"Well, I better escort you home and get some sleep myself. Jason has promised to work us extra hard tomorrow. A deadline is looming again, thanks to my 'often missing' middle brother."
"Jeremy, would you like me to keep Clara more 'occupied' tomorrow so Josh won't be coming to the dorm every hour?"
"You can do that? That would be really nice, Candy, and very helpful. Thank you!" He gave her another quick kiss as he dropped her off at the dorm, then made his way back to the Bolt cabin.

Chapter 16

True to his word, Jason lined up all the men first thing in the morning and barked out a slew of "rush" orders for each section of the mountain.
"Each of you foremen will need to clear an entire row in your area by the end of today." (A collective groan was heard by the loggers). "Now, listen, it's of the utmost importance that we get as much done today as we possibly can, to make absolutely sure we can make the deadline tomorrow. IF we end up ahead of schedule, which is my hope, we'll quit early and head over to Lottie's - drinks will be on me!"
(A collective cheer was heard by the loggers). "Now, don't forget, work hard today, all right?
Corky, you'll take your crew to the west side. Jeremy - the North side. I'll bring my crew to the south side, and Joshua - Josh? Anybody around here seen Josh?"

"He looked a little dazed and dreamy after breakfast. Guess he'll be coming in late again," offered Sam.
"No, that won't do - that just won't do! One person's lagging will put the entire deadline in jeopardy. Sam, take two out of your crew and find that sorry brother of mine. Tell him - no, DRAG him up here if you have to - and let him know that today is a critical day, for tomorrow we aim to meet that deadline. Put the fear of God in him if you must. Now GO!"
Sam and two others scampered away down the mountain, eager to get Josh to start pulling his weight on this contract.

Jeremy thought to himself, 'I sure hope Candy doesn't have much planned today, so she can keep Clara occupied.'

ssssssssssssssssss

Sam and his small group tromped into town and promptly pounded on the door of the dormitory.

Biddie came running and threw the door open.
"My goodness!" she exclaimed."What seems to be the problem that our door is in jeopardy of falling apart?"

Sam looked around Biddie and spotted Josh, talking softly to Clara. "Pardon me, Miss Cloom, but I have it on strict orders from Jason to come and retrieve Joshua Bolt to work up at camp today, starting NOW."
Josh overheard that remark, and turned to him, saying, "Oh, yes? Who defines 'now?' " he asked with a dreamy look.
"Jason and we do!" replied Sam and his cohorts. They brushed roughly passed Biddie and dragged Josh to his feet.
"Whoa, wait a minute - there's no need for this!" exclaimed Josh.
"Well, Jason says there IS a need, for you've been slowing down this project so much that we may not make that deadline by tomorrow! I am under orders to bring you to camp immediately!"

"Well," said Josh quietly, turning to Clara. "I hope you don't mind, MiLady, but it seems as if I'll be spending my day up at camp, working my fingers to the bone. I'll come and check in la—"
"No you won't!" all three men echoed. "You're to stay up at camp through dark tonight. Period. If you got a problem with that, take it up with Jason." The three men grabbed Josh and started hauling him outside. 'Good Day, Miss," Sam said. All the women could hear Josh's protests, as well as the retorts from the crew. The voices faded as they proceeded up to the camp, shouting at each other with every step.

"Well," said Biddie, a little rattled. "That was the most forceful thing I've ever seen done to a Bolt brother!"
Candy came downstairs and quickly spoke, "Clara, I hope you know that Jason isn't always this rough on the men. I can see why Josh has pushed Jason to the end of his patience, though."
Clara admitted, "Well, I have been hogging Joshua to myself day and night, so I should have guessed it would come to this eventually."
Candy interceded, "Would you like to help with a big knitting project several of us are working on? We're making baby bonnets and booties for all the newborn babies on the outlying farms. There has been quite a crop, I've heard."
"Oh, I think you'll have to hold my hand on that task, Candy," replied Clara. "I haven't knitted in - who knows how long?"
"Oh, it's like riding a bike. It will all come back to you quickly, I promise!" Before Clara could say one more word, Candy ushered her out of the dorm and over to Lottie's, where the knitting stations were set up.
The rest of the brides just looked at each other quizzically. Some of them joined the group going to Lottie's.

Chapter 17

Josh did work hard all that day and into the evening. Sam finally told him, "Jason said if we work extra hard today, as soon as we complete the project tomorrow, he'll let us knock off early, and the drinks are on him at Lottie's!"
All Josh would say was "Hmmph," but he kept up the grueling pace.

Right after dusk, all the men seemed to have finished for the day. As they gathered at the center of camp, some of them compared notes. "Harve, you did a tremendous job with that clearing!" Jason crowed. "We should be well on top of things tomorrow!"
"Yeah, Corky and I had a pretty good day, too," added Jeremy.
"Josh, how did your crew do today?" Jason asked innocently.
Josh's eyes grew dark, and he almost went up to choke Jason. But, deep down, he knew he had been paying too much attention to Clara, putting her ahead of his work obligations, so he tempered himself before saying, "Fine. We did fine, too. Can I please go now?"
Jason caught the angry look, but did not want to draw attention to it or encourage it.
"Why, yes, I suppose you can, But …" he grabbed Josh's arm before he finished, "everybody - and I mean EVERYbody - including you - needs to be back here at 8 a.m. SHARP to finish this job. Can I count on you for that, brother, so we don't need to drag you away from your visitor again?"
"Fine!" shouted Josh before he stormed down the mountain.

"I've never seen him like this before, Jason," noted Jeremy.
"Me, neither," replied Jason. "But I wonder…. is there trouble in Paradise, or are things just progressing too quickly, like a runaway train?"
Jeremy looked up at him quizzically. Jason just raised his eyebrows and threw his arm around Jeremy as they continued down the mountain to their cabin.

Josh stopped briefly at the cabin to throw water on himself and get more or less cleaned up before seeing Clara again. As he continued to the dorm, he saw Clara and Candy, as well as a few other brides, emerging from Lottie's, holding their knitted masterpieces up before them.

"So, was that as hard as you thought?" asked Candy.
Clara replied "No - it was harder! Who knew that little booties could have so many twists and turns!"
"Well, you never let on like it was anything but easy for you to do," remarked Candy.
Clara smiled and said "Thank you," before her eye caught Josh on the trail leading up to her.

"Joshua!" she beamed as she hurried over to meet him. He immediately grabbed her by the waist and twirled her around. "I probably still smell like the camp," he admitted. "I just wanted to see you as soon as I could, so I kind of rushed through cleaning up."
Clara pretended to wrinkle her nose. "Camp?" she asked with incredulity. "I think it's more an aroma of 'worked-too-hard-today.' Besides, I really don't care what you smell like!"
Josh chuckled at that. "Really?" he asked, astonished that she would ever say such a thing.

"Joshua, I have to confess. A childhood illness robbed me of most of my sense of smell."
"Wow - I've never heard of that happening to anyone I know," he confessed.
"Well, all in all, that's a good thing for you, isn't it?" she giggled.
"Well, I'll still try to clean up properly before I come calling on you, anyway," Josh stated.
"Oh, OK," she pretended to pout, but ended up laughing instead.
"Are you hungry? Would you like to dine at Lottie's? I'm so sorry there aren't any restaurant choices here - yet. But I do know they are planned - several of them!"
"Sure," said Clara, and they walked arm in arm to the Saloon for dinner. Clara waved at Candy as they passed.
Candy smiled and waved back, but her mind was elsewhere.
Just then Jeremy walked up and stated, "Hey, YOU, pretty lady! I've been calling your name for the last several steps!"
"Oh my, have you? I'm so sorry that I didn't hear you right away," replied Candy.

"It looks like your thoughts are as deep as mine and Jason's," Jeremy said quickly. "Want to talk about it?"
"Why, yes, yes I would, thank you. As long as you give me your thoughts on the matter as well."
"I think I can do that," smiled Jeremy, as he steered her away from town and to their favorite sitting place.

As soon as Candy and Jeremy settled themselves on the big rock overlooking a lake, they were silent for a moment.
"Ladies first," Jeremy finally spoke. "I'd be interested in hearing your viewpoint."
"Oh, OK… Well… It seems as if Joshua and Clara are very smitten with each other, to the exclusion of everyone and everything else (like work). I know you and I were a little bit like that when we first met, but I honestly think we took things at a more relaxed pace."
"A more relaxed pace… that's the perfect phrase for it."
"Yes," added Candy. "It's almost like they are consuming each other at a frenetic pace!"
Jeremy thought, 'I'm going to need to bring a dictionary with me the next time we sit on this rock.'

He simply asked "frenetic?"
"Oh, I'm sorry, Jeremy. It means rather frantic, in a wild or almost uncontrollable way. I guess it could be like how hard Jason pushed all the loggers today!"
"Oh, now I see. I'll have to save that word and use it on Jason some time! Yes, I agree. I think they act like they're on a runaway train or something."
"Me, too," replied Candy, softly. "However… I'm not sure we can - or should - do anything to stop them or even slow them down, though. I've hardly ever seen a couple so happy!"
"Yeah, and it's not like we disapprove of Clara or their relationship, either. I guess we'll just have to leave it up to them, and see what time brings."

"I agree. I'm so glad we talked about this, Jeremy. I feel like such a part of your family now, that everything that affects one of you affects me, too. I'm glad you didn't mind talking about it."

"Of course not, future Mrs. Bolt!" replied Jeremy. With that, he grabbed her at the waist and lifted her down to the ground, sneaking in an earnest kiss at the end.
"Oh, my, Mr. Bolt, you certainly have a way with words!" she giggled.
"No, my dear, you're the one with all the words. I prefer actions." He kissed her soundly again, and then they both chuckled.

Jeremy sighed, then said, "Well, time to get you back to the dorm - again. I'm really looking forward to the day when I don't have to take you home - you'll already be there - in our home."
Candy smiled at him. "Me, too," she added.

Chapter 18

The next day, the loggers did indeed finish within their deadline, and Jason proudly heralded the occasion with free drinks at Lottie's. Everyone was in a buoyant mood at the saloon. Even Josh went to get a drink first, before calling on Clara.

However, Clara came hurrying into the saloon and caught sight of Josh.
"Oh, Joshua, I have to return to Tacoma as soon as possible. Bonnie has taken ill, and it doesn't look good."

Joshua grew very concerned as well. "Let's not wait for a stagecoach; I can bring you back in the buckboard if you think you can tolerate the rougher ride."
"I think I can do that," answered Clara. "Let me go pack, and we'll be off first thing in the morning."
Josh gave her a quick kiss and told her, "Let me know if you need any help. I'm sure the brides would be happy to assist you, too."
"Thank you, Joshua - for everything," replied Clara before rushing out to the dormitory.

"Is something wrong, Josh?" Jeremy asked. Jason preferred to keep his distance from Josh for the next day or two, to let both of them cool off.
"Yes, there is." By now Jason had come within earshot. "It seems that Mrs. Fisher, the lady at the Mansion, has become gravely ill, and Clara needs to return to Tacoma immediately. She even agreed to let me drive her home in the buckboard instead of waiting for a stagecoach."

She must be very concerned," Jason added. "That wagon is not a comfortable ride for any lady."
"I know, but I'll make sure we'll stop occasionally and let the horses also rest on the way up there."
"Good idea, brother," Jason stated. His and Josh's eyes met, and there seemed to be a melting of the anger between the two of them. Things had definitely calmed down from the previous heated exchange.
"Let me help get the wagon ready," offered Jason.
"Me, too," added Jeremy, as all three returned to their cabin.

Before turning in, Josh went by the dormitory and gently knocked on the door. Biddie answered it.
"Oh, hello, Joshua - you're here rather late this evening."
Josh replied, "I wanted to see if Clara needed anything before we take off tomorrow morning for Tacoma."
"Well, she must be all set, for she already went to bed."
"Oh - good. At least one of us might get some sleep tonight. Good night, Biddie."
"Good night, Joshua," she replied.

ssssssssssssssssss

The next day dawned misty and damp, with threatening rain clouds hanging low. Josh grabbed a large tarp for the ride, in case the heavens opened up. He also put a pillow on Clara's side of the seat, in hopes of buffering the largest bumps on the trail.
He drove the wagon right up to the dormitory, jumped out, and knocked on the front door. Candy opened it.
"Well, good morning, Joshua! We're just finishing breakfast. Would you like to come in?"
"I'm fine. I just wanted Clara to know that I'm right outside the door with the wagon, but there is absolutely no rush to finish her breakfast."
"OK, I'll tell her. We're finishing up a lunch basket for both of you, too."
"That's so nice of you all - thank you," replied Josh.
Candy smiled and disappeared behind the closing door.

The wagon trip to Tacoma felt like it was moving at a snail's pace. At least the storm clouds did not open up, so Josh was relieved about that.
Clara was very quiet. "How are you holding up over there?" asked Josh worriedly.
"Oh, plenty worried, I guess. Maybe I should have waited for a stagecoach - despite this lovely pillow, my bottom is certainly getting a beating on this rough road in the wagon!"
Joshua couldn't help but chuckle. "I see a nice lake up ahead where we and the horses can rest for a bit."

He pulled up the wagon and helped Clara out of the front seat. He then unhooked the horses from the wagon to let them find water and fresh grass.

"Is there anything I can do or say…?" asked Josh.

"No, I'm a big girl, but I am trying to come to terms with losing the Fishers eventually. They are getting older."
"That's one thing we can't escape," agreed Josh. "Age."
"Mmm.." replied Clara softly.
They proceeded on their journey as fast as they could, grateful that the clouds had not opened up - yet.

"We're almost there, MiLady," quoted Josh. Clara smiled weakly.
After another half hour, Clara could see the familiar outskirts of Tacoma. "Can I show you a shortcut to their house?" she asked Josh.
"Certainly!" replied Josh. He was wondering if he would always have to pass by the school first on each visit.
A few short minutes later, they reached the mansion. Clara didn't wait for Josh to help her down; she sprang out of her seat and rushed up to the door, knocking on it impatiently.
Benjamin finally appeared at the door.
"Oh, Miss Clara - I'm so glad you came!"
"Has the doctor already seen her?" she asked anxiously.
"Yes, he has. I will let Mr. Fisher tell you about the examination."

Josh knew better than to follow Clara. After she quizzically turned to him, he quickly said, "I'll just stay down here with Benjamin until you need me."
He noticed the look of relief on her face as she nodded and proceeded to run up the grand staircase.

As soon as she entered Bonnie's room, she exclaimed, "Bonnie! I came as fast as I could!" She quickly turned to Joseph to make sure she did not startle him, but he only nodded.
Bonnie turned her head to Clara from her soft pillow and said, rather weakly, "I'm so glad you're here, dear. Come to me."

Clara rushed to Bonnie's side and sat down on a chair next to the bed. "Tell me what has happened."

"Well, it looks like these old bones are finally slowing down to a stop," Bonnie answered.
"No!" Clara exclaimed. "You and Joseph were in perfect health just a short while ago!"
"Ah, time flies when you have a Prince Charming in your life," smiled Bonnie. "You've actually been gone for most of the summer."
"I have?" Clara asked incredulously. "It's only been a week… or two… or three…?" Clara became quiet when she realized that she had been in Seattle much longer than she had planned to be.
"Oh, I should never have left you for such a long time!" Clara wailed.
"Now, now, my dear," said Joseph soothingly. "You have every right to plan your summers experiencing as much fun as you can, and spend them wherever you want, for we never know when good health will be stripped from us, or when it may return again."

Clara looked at Joseph, then back at Bonnie. "Oh, Bonnie… Are you feeling stronger? Do you think you'll be better fairly soon?"
"Well… yes, and no," Bonnie said with a sigh. "I know I immediately feel so much better now that you are here, but I can honestly tell that my time is near, dear, and I don't want you carrying on about it or trying to change it."
After a few tears escaped down Clara's cheeks, she asked, "How can you tell, Bonnie?"

"Ah, when you have enough years on your bones, you can tell when things are shutting down. And that's ALL I'm going to say about it. Just sit here and hold my hand, child."
Clara complied. They were quiet for a long time.
"And where is Prince Charming?" queried Joseph.

"Oh, my - I almost forgot! He's downstairs with Benjamin. He helped get me here so much faster by driving me in the Bolts' buckboard wagon rather than waiting another day or two for a stagecoach."

Both Bonnie's and Joseph's eyes grew wide. "A Buckboard wagon?" Bonnie asked. "Oh, my - Benjamin will have to draw you a nice, hot bath so you can ease your - ah - derrière."
They all chuckled at that comment.
Bonnie, would you like to see Joshua? He is quite happy just to stay downstairs."

"No, no…. I'd like to see Prince Charming again," replied Bonnie, smiling.
Joseph quickly said "I'll go fetch him," and he disappeared out of the room.
"Bonnie, surely you can hang on to your lovely old bones for a while longer?" Clara beseeched her.
"Why, is there an impending wedding, perhaps, in your future…?" Bonnie grinned at her.
"Oh, my, I'm not sure about that, but we have been spending quite a lot of time together, and we never seem to tire of it!"
"Good, good," replied Bonnie.
By then Joseph had ushered Joshua into the room.
"Hello. Mrs. Fisher. I wish we were meeting again under happier circumstances. I hear that you are not feeling well."
"Ah, yes, but now I'm feeling much better, looking at such a handsome Prince!"
Josh blushed profusely. "That's OK, son," interjected Joseph. "we parental figures insist that our main job is to embarrass the younger generation." Everyone chuckled softly after that.

"Well, my dears, as lovely as it was to see you again, I'm afraid I am quite tired. It's time to give these weary bones a rest."
"Certainly, Bonnie," remarked Clara as she leaned over and kissed her soundly on the cheek. "Sleep well, Bonnie."
Josh said, "It was good to see you again, Mrs. Fisher. I wish you godspeed to good health."
Bonnie raised her eyebrows at this statement, but she knew that Joseph would fill the couple in on the medical details.
"Good night, you two!" said Bonnie, as loudly and as chipper as she could speak.
"Good night to you as well," they both said.

"I'll be right down," said Joseph. "I'll meet you in the dining room."
Clara and Josh both nodded, and proceeded downstairs. When they entered the formal dining room, it appeared that the cook had prepared a generous repast for them.
"Oh, my!" said Josh, quietly. "I've never seen this much food at any type of reception in Seattle."
"I only wish I were hungry," added Clara.
They both sat down and took something to drink, but just stared at the food.

After a while, they could hear Joseph slowly and softly padding down the stairs. He seemed to stand at the dining room entrance for a while, composing himself. He then entered and sat across from the two lovebirds.
"You two have indeed been the best medicine Bonnie could have ever asked for right now," he explained.

"Benjamin said the doctor had already seen her. Can you tell me what…?" Clara ventured, not sure if she could finish the sentence.
Joseph sighed deeply. "Well, it appears that her bones are indeed worn out and her internal organs are shutting down," he said. "The doctor did not think it was anything like pneumonia or a high fever or infection, but her organs are each shutting down gradually; you can tell how weak she is in general. I'm afraid my Life Partner will go ahead of me soon…" his voice trailed off and he covered his eyes with a handkerchief.

Bonnie rushed around to his side of the table and knelt next to him. "Oh, Joseph, you and Bonnie have been my parents for such a long time. Please, please let me help you get through this, for I am going through it, too!" Large tears formed in her eyes at that statement.
"You know," continued Joseph, "We got married when we were about your age. When you spend so much of your life with one person, you really do become like two halves of a whole. We've lived through all the wedding vows several times over; in sickness and in health, for richer or poorer, until we turned around and saw ourselves having grown old together.
"Clara, do not be alarmed when I say that I doubt I can survive very many days alone without her." He wiped his eyes with his handkerchief again.
Even Josh was tearing up this time. "Sir, if there is anything we can possibly do to ease your suffering and Bonnie's pain, please tell us."
"You already have, my boy - you already have."

Just then the clouds burst forth with a torrential rain. Joseph quickly said "Let's get that wagon under a roof!" and Josh jumped in and met him at the back of the mansion.

ssssssssssssssssss

After securing the wagon in a dry place, Josh and Joseph re-entered the house. Clara was nowhere to be found.
"Pardon me, sir," said Benjamin." I drew a bath for Miss Clara, and after that, she said she was going to try and rest for a while. She really is quite shaken up with these events."

"I understand," Joseph replied. "Well, then, Joshua, it's time you and I shared a drink and a nice, long talk." He led Josh out of the dining room and preceded him into the library. The smell of cigar smoke permeated the atmosphere. Josh coughed once or twice.
"Oh, does cigar smoke bother you much, my lad? I can forego one if you wish.
"Well…Why not enjoy one if we can sit outside on the covered veranda?" Josh offered.
"Splendid idea, Joshua - splendid idea!"

They both proceeded out to the veranda and sat on two brightly upholstered chairs.
"You'll have to forgive my Bonnie for picking such bright colors around the house. That's one of the things that drew me to her. Her sense of delight, optimism, and just life, in general, made me feel so much more alive when I was around her. "

"Well, sir, that's exactly the way I feel around Clara, too," said Josh. "I don't know how on earth we can talk for hours on end, yet I can't wait to see her as soon as possible after we part. It's like she shares her vivacious energy with me."
"Ah, yes - I could tell that Clara and Bonnie were quite alike when we first met. Clara could not and would not give up trying to improve my boy's health, no matter what the doctors and physical therapists warned her. I think that just keeping us company and entertaining him kept us going for many years. We are forever grateful for her dedication to our boy."

"I can certainly understand that, Mr. Fisher - uh - Joseph."
"You better get used to calling me Joseph, Joshua, for I think we may become more like family, and sooner rather than later. Are you thinking at all ahead with your relationship with Clara?"
"Well, sir, I thought I wasn't, until all this happened. Now I realize that you can't take anything - especially life and health - for granted."
"Ah, yes. I believe the illness and death of Bonnie's parents had me thinking the same thing, and I did so want to care for her and not let her face the world alone. It was just the kick in the pants I needed to propose to her. I have never regretted it one bit."
"Every time I'm with Clara, more and more, I just can't picture my life without her," sighed Josh.
"Well, my lad, I'm glad we are at this juncture now. Bonnie gave me this ring to give to Clara if and (hopefully) when the time comes." He pulled Bonnie's gorgeous diamond ring out of his pocket.
"Oh, sir, I couldn't possibly take anything like that - it's an heirloom!"
"Why do you think I'm passing it on to you? You two are our heirs now, Joshua. We have no other relatives around anymore. We'd like to keep a few things in the family, so to speak. Please, indulge in Bonnie's wish for Clara, and let her remember Bonnie with fondness and gratitude every time she glances at it."

Joshua gently held out his hand. He realized it was trembling with the weight of all the responsibilities, plans, and dreams ahead of him. "We'll both treasure this always," he said softly.

Just then, Benjamin entered the room. "I believe Miss Clara is already asleep in her room, sir. Mr. Bolt, would you like the guest bedroom again?"
'Oh! I didn't realize it had gotten so late! Thank you, Benjamin. I would be honored to stay here tonight. Is there any bath water left over that I could use to wash up from our bumpy, dusty ride?"
"No, sir - not any used bathwater - just a fresh bath for you to wash up and relax! Come with me!"

Josh and Joseph rose simultaneously. "Well, good-night, my boy. I hope you get some sleep tonight."
"Me too, sir. Thank you again for everything."
Joseph headed up the stairs to the master bedroom, while Benjamin showed Josh the washroom where a nice, hot bathtub full of sudsy water was waiting for him.
"That looks so inviting that I might just fall asleep in it!" exclaimed Josh.
"I'll come to check on you in a while, sir, to make sure you haven't drowned or anything," smiled Benjamin.
"Good idea, Benjamin - thank you!" With that, Benjamin quietly walked out of the washroom, and Josh stripped off all the dirty layers of his clothes and stepped gratefully into the tub. "Ahhhhh…" he sighed, releasing most of the tension, aches, and pains from the ride and the sad day he and Clara just had.

Chapter 19

Even though the bath thoroughly relaxed him, Josh slept fitfully that night. He wished he could find out if Clara was all right, or if she was doing the same tossing and turning that he was doing. He tried to keep his eyes shut, but the revelation of that big engagement ring that Joseph passed on to him made him check on it every few minutes. It was steadfastly lying on the nightstand, waiting for the perfect moment sometime in the future. But when….?

Around 7 a.m., Josh woke with a start to hear loud wailing coming from down the hall. He grabbed a robe and went out to the hallway, stopping to see Clara on her knees, sobbing uncontrollably. The mortuary was in the process of taking Bonnie's body away. Joseph then came out of the bedroom and knelt on the floor, scooping up Clara in his arms. When he saw Josh, he moved her gently over to him, and Josh, now kneeling, let Clara continue weeping for several minutes. When the louder sobbing subsided a bit, Josh gently picked her up in his arms and carried her to her bed. He gently laid some covers over her. She rolled over so her back was to him. He looked around, and thought 'to hell with propriety,' and, even though he kept the bedroom door open, he climbed in bed behind her, enveloping her in his arms. The two of them lay like that for the rest of the morning, eventually falling asleep in that position.

Chapter 20

Josh stirred a bit behind Clara. He did not realize how deeply he had slept or how comfortable he felt holding her for several hours. He vowed right then and there to propose to her as soon as possible, for he did not ever want her (or himself) to go through life alone.

He removed his arms from around Clara, and gently removed himself from the bed, too. She was still in deep slumber. He bent down and kissed her softly on her cheek. He was glad that she did not stir, but stayed sound asleep.

He softly closed the door behind him.

When he returned to his guest room, he found that all his dirty clothes were pristinely cleaned and folded. He quickly dressed and padded down the grand staircase. He saw Joseph morosely looking at his lunch plate.

"Not too hungry either, huh, sir?" mentioned Josh.
"Not hungry at all, my boy, not hungry at all. Is Clara awake now?"
"No, sir, she is still sleeping - quite soundly, by the looks of things. I'm very glad she is, too."
"Ah, yes, me too. She came upon the scene you saw quite suddenly, and it both scared and overwhelmed her."
"Yes, I could tell," replied Josh.

"Joshua, would it be possible for you to spend just a few more days with us, to attend Bonnie's funeral service?" asked Joseph.
"Of course, sir; it would be an honor. I will just have to send my brother a telegram first."
"Ah - you know where it is, now; go and send one."
"Thank you, Joseph." With that, Josh took his leave from the dining room and hurried upstairs to the alcove where the telegraph machine was located. He quickly set up a short memo for Jason.
'Bonnie died last night - Stop. Will be staying here for the funeral - Stop. Will make up all work I've missed when I return - Stop. Please keep family in your prayers.
Josh."

'That ought to do,' thought Josh, as he left the telegraph alcove.

Returning downstairs, he found that Clara was up and dressed. Even though she looked pale and exhausted, she picked up some fruit and started nibbling on it.
"I'm glad you found a morsel of appetite to eat something," Josh remarked as he sat down next to her.
"I don't even know what or why I'm eating," whispered Clara.
"Because you need to keep up your strength so we can both be here for Joseph during Bonnie's funeral service," Josh reasoned.
"Oh - you're staying for that?" Clara asked with a modicum of enthusiasm.
"Joseph asked me to, and I was happy to oblige him."
They both took a few more morsels from the bounteous assortment of pastries, fruits, and jams.
Benjamin entered the room. "Would either of you like some coffee?" he asked graciously.
They both answered in unison, "Yes, I would, please." They quickly looked at each other and smiled.
Benjamin poured them each a cup and left the sugar and creamer on the table. He then disappeared quietly.
"Joshua, can I talk to you about something?"
"Certainly, Clara- anything," Josh replied.
"Well… I think I fainted when the mortuary took Bonnie out of the house. I could feel Joseph bending down near me, but then I sensed a strong man carrying me to my bed. I just know it wasn't Benjamin (they both smiled at that thought); perhaps it might have been you?"
"Well, yes, it was me."
"I also felt someone holding me until I finally fell asleep. Was that you, also?"
"Guilty as charged. I left your bedroom door open, so anyone passing by would understand there was no impropriety happening, but I wanted to be with you - to be near you in any and every way I could be. I hope it didn't bother you."

Both Benjamin and Joseph were passing near the dining room, but they each stood slightly out of the young couple's visual range, for they could sense something important was about to transpire.

"Oh, Joshua," Clara turned to him as she continued. "It was the most - most perfect thing anyone could have done for me at that moment, and I am forever grateful that it was you."
Josh added, "I'm glad you feel that way."

"It was like a beautiful bird was enveloping me with its wings. I should have known that you could be an Eagle as well as a Prince Charming."
Josh couldn't help but smile. He felt the ring in his pants pocket. Right then and there, he got down on one knee and proclaimed, "Clara, I don't ever want you to be alone again, or I, for that matter. Would you do me the honor of becoming my wife, so that we may have as many years of happiness together as Bonnie and Joseph had?"

Clara gasped, especially when she saw Bonnie's ring.
"Oh, my - how did you get Bonnie's ring?" she demanded, almost angrily.
Just then, Joseph came into the dining room and simply stated "I gave it to him - from Bonnie herself. She wanted it passed down to you in case Joshua was ready to… to say what he just said!"
"I gather you might say 'yes' now?" prompted Josh.
"Oh, yes, dear Joshua. YES!"
As Josh placed the ring on her finger, big tears fell down Clara's cheeks. Bonnie's fingers were slightly pudgier than Clara's, but Josh knew they could readily fix that - even before they returned to Seattle.
Josh pulled Clara to a standing position and kissed her soundly.
"Thank you for making me the happiest man in Washington Territory," Josh whispered.

"Well," Joseph exclaimed. "I better get down to the mortuary to plan Bonnie's funeral."
"Would you like me to come along, too?" asked Clara.
"No, no, child. This is something I want to do by myself. Thank you anyway." Benjamin handed him his hat and coat as he went out the door. They were all silent for a long time.

Eventually, Clara softly said, "How can we feel so happy and despondent at the same time?"
"I totally understand what you're saying," said Joshua. He held Clara in his arms again for a long time.

The End of Part II