Author's Note
At one point in this chapter, fans of GAMM will recognize dialog from the "Mr. Perfect" episode. Those brilliant words are from the pen of John McGreevy. I just borrowed them to blend his original story line into mine.
Chapter 3
Early the next morning, Martha went into town to do additional shopping. With the captain finally home, their needs had changed. Unfortunately, it didn't take long before she got wind of the latest gossip, and she was bothered that it involved her employer. At various shops, she'd heard that 'Mrs. Muir was seeing another man and wasn't it awful to be doing so while she was living in Captain Gregg's house.' The consensus of opinion seemed to be, she'd used her feminine wiles on the seaman to better the situation for herself and her children; getting him to agree to rent his house to her had only been the first step. Those who were aware that the new man had arrived in a private railroad car saw fit to add more fuel to the fire. Mrs. Shoemaker, Mrs. Worth, and another woman, Mrs. Hassenhammer, were talking about how the Muir woman had obviously set her sights on a man with more money and was going to toss the captain overboard.
As much as she wanted to put those old harpies in their place, Martha was afraid she would make things worse for Carolyn, so she said nothing. Acting as if she didn't hear them, she tried to stay focused on what she needed to buy but, at the same time, kept an ear out for anything else those blasted women might be spreading around town.
Coming out of her last stop, she ran into Daniel, who insisted on helping her with her purchases. As they walked to the cart, she told him what she'd heard.
"That explains the sympathetic looks I've been getting from people this morning. Do I need to ask who is making these ridiculous claims?"
"I suspect you already know."
"Mrs. Shoemaker?"
"And her cronies."
"Aye. She would have been my first guess," he said with a steely look. "Martha, you did the right thing not confronting them," he assured her. "Thank you for letting me know, and please tell Carolyn, so she's not caught off guard when she comes to town."
"I was planning to. I just hate that she has to deal with this again."
"I'll deal with it. It's about time that Shoemaker woman was put in her place."
"You do know how you could stop all of this gossip, don't you?"
"I do."
Martha nodded.
"That's right. Those two little words are all it would take to stop those busy bodies in their tracks."
"It might stop them for a while," he smiled. "But as long as people allow that kind of nastiness from that woman, and her kind, the gossip will continue."
"Well?"
"Well, what?"
"When are you going to ask Mrs. Muir to marry you? If you two don't do something soon . . ."
"In good time, Martha. In good time," he smiled, very aware of her concern.
"That's not an answer!"
"I'm afraid it's all I have for you right now."
XXXXX
As Carolyn and Blair rode into town for lunch, she was very deliberate about her demeanor. When Martha came home from her shopping, she told her about the latest gossip going around Schooner Bay, and the young widow's mood changed instantly. The usual gossiping tongues had been quiet for months, and she realized it had lulled her into a false sense of security. She really didn't want to have to deal with it again. Blair, unaware of what was going on, tried to engage Carolyn in conversation, but she was very distracted, and he didn't miss that she was sitting as far away from him as possible.
When they parked the carriage, she could see people turning to watch them. It was all she could do to keep her anger, and annoyance, at bay. The only thing keeping her calm was knowing Daniel would be joining them for lunch, although her old friend had no idea. She smiled to herself when she considered his reaction, but she was really hoping that when people saw the three of them together it would quiet those nasty busy bodies. In the meantime, she was trying to keep any physical contact with Blair to a minimum. Her plan went out the window, though, when he helped her down from the carriage. When she stepped out, he held on to her hand, tucking it through his arm, and then held it with his free hand.
Norrie greeted Mrs. Muir, as she came in the door, but found himself tongue-tied when he realized her companion was not the captain. The last twenty-four hours, he'd ignored the rumors that had been flying around town, but her arrival with the stranger made him wonder if they could be true.
When he spoke the young widow's name, everyone in the restaurant looked up, and the room became very still. The town gossips, who had been busy all morning spreading their vitriol, had finished their shopping, and were now having lunch together there. They stared openly at the couple, with little care of their rudeness. Fortunately, there were a few friendly faces too; women who were related to crew members of the Kitty Keane, and a few other people the young widow had met through school or church. They looked at Carolyn sympathetically, knowing there was no way the rumors could be true.
Blair didn't notice the reaction their arrival had caused, but Carolyn was very aware and, in a louder than normal voice, introduced him to Norrie as 'an old family friend' from Philadelphia. Still tongue-tied, their host mumbled a "hello" and showed them to a table. All eyes followed them as they made their way across the room. There was a distinct difference between the looks she received from those who spread, or believed, the rumors, and those who had gotten to know Mrs. Muir and knew better.
The restaurant was very crowded, but that worked to her advantage; the only seats available were at a table for four. Once they were settled, Blair reached for her hand, but she moved quickly to pick up the menu.
"I haven't had it myself, but everyone raves about Norrie's Shore Dinner," she said, trying to distract him.
"I suppose we should order first . . . so we can talk about more important things . . . without any interruptions," he said, reaching for her hand again.
"Blair, stop. You're going to give people the wrong impression," she whispered. Pulling her hand away, she could see several patrons watching them and a few even straining to hear what was being said.
"All right; if you insist," he sighed. "I'll wait for a less public moment, but I do have something very important I'd like to speak to you about."
"We'll talk later . . . when we don't have an audience," she said, trying not to sound as annoyed as she felt.
"Of course," he agreed. "Now then, what shall we talk about over lunch?" he pondered. "Why don't you tell me what you do up here in this godforsaken seaport?"
With her eyes flashing, she put down the menu, intending to give Blair a piece of her mind but stopped when she saw Daniel enter the restaurant. She could feel herself relaxing at the sight of him.
Norrie was shocked to see the seaman and quickly glanced to where Carolyn and her "friend" were with a look of pure panic on his face. He knew, better than most, how the captain felt about Mrs. Muir and was afraid of what might happen if the seaman saw her having lunch with the other man.
"Good afternoon, Captain. I, I, I, I'm s-sorry, but we . . . uh . . . we don't have any tables available right now."
"Hello, Norrie," he replied, looking around the room. "No, you don't, do you?"
"If you can come back later, I'd be happy to reserve one for you," the nervous man said as quickly as he could.
"Thank you. I'll come back in a half hour, if you think that will be enough time for things to clear out."
"I'm sure I'll have something for you by then."
"Fine," he smiled, looking around. "I see Mrs. Muir is here with Mr. Thompson. I'll just go over and say hello," he said, walking away without waiting for a response.
Norrie was left standing by the door, wondering if he was going to have to serve in his capacity of constable before the lunch rush was over.
By this time, everyone in the room was watching the captain. The Shoemaker party was especially interested and blatantly followed his every move as he walked toward the couple.
"Oh look, it's Captain Gregg!" Carolyn said, pointing him out to her companion.
Blair rolled his eyes and muttered to himself, 'Wonderful.'
Daniel walked up to the table with a smile for the couple.
"Good afternoon, Mrs. Muir. How fortunate that I've run into you," he greeted her. Then, walking around the table, he shook Blair's hand. "Mr. Thompson, it's good to see you again."
"Captain Gregg." he answered, clearly bewildered.
"Dear lady, I'm sorry to interrupt you again but, since you're here, I hope you don't mind if I ask you a question," he smiled innocently. "One must take advantage of opportunities when they present themselves . . . don't you agree?" he asked.
"I do, sir," she replied, trying to hold back the giggle she felt bubbling to the surface.
"Would you mind if I came up to the house this afternoon? I have some free time today and have quite a few things I'd like to do around the property while I'm home."
"Not at all. Martha and the children are there now," she replied. "But surely, you didn't come in here to see me?"
"No. Actually, I came in to have lunch, but it looks like I'll have to come back later," he said, looking around the room.
Carolyn and Blair followed his gaze and saw there were no available tables.
"Nonsense, you can join us; we have room. You don't mind, do you Blair?"
"No, of course not!" he said in a tone that begged he throw his hands up in frustration.
"Oh, I couldn't," Daniel replied.
"We're not going to have that discussion again, are we?" she asked, raising an eyebrow.
"You're sure you don't mind? Mr. Thompson, you must be tired of me by now."
"Yes," he said absently.
"Blair!"
In an instant, he realized what he'd said. Even though that was how he felt, it wasn't what he'd intended, and he began to chuckle, with only a hint of annoyance.
"I do apologize. That came out wrong. What I meant was, 'Yes I'm sure I don't mind you joining us,' not 'Yes, I'm tired of you by now.'"
The three of them chuckled, and Carolyn invited the seaman to have a seat.
Daniel sat on Carolyn's left and across from Blair. Norrie, seeing the captain joining the couple, breathed a tentative sigh of relief and hurried over with a menu.
"It's seems I won't be needing a table after all, Norrie," the seaman said cheerfully.
"Yes, sir," he smiled hesitantly. "Is everyone ready to order, or would you like a few more minutes?"
Daniel nodded that he was ready, as did Carolyn, and they looked at Blair, expectantly. He hadn't even looked at the menu but wanted to get this lunch over with as quickly as possible.
"Yes, I'm ready. I'll have the Shore Dinner, and the lady will have the same," he said without consulting her.
Carolyn touched his sleeve and spoke quietly.
"Blair, I'd rather have a salad, please."
"Of course," he said, patting her hand as if she were a child. "Change the lady's order to a salad."
"Yes, sir; and you Captain?"
"Norrie, I'll have the Shore Dinner. Thank you."
As the owner left, the party of three looked at one another. Blair remembered Carolyn expected him to apologize to the seaman and broke the ice with that.
"Captain Gregg, I must apologize for my behavior last night. I had no business sticking my nose in Carolyn's, or your, business. I hope you'll forgive me," he asked, uncharacteristically humble.
"No need to apologize. I suspect you were only looking out for your friend."
"That was it, precisely. Thank you for understanding."
The captain nodded and made things easier on everyone when he started asking questions about what it was like growing up in Philadelphia. He'd been there often over the years and was interested in a resident's perspective. They talked as they ate, and the conversation was easy. Blair was very interested in sailing so, when he got the chance, he asked the seaman quite a few questions. For the first time in a long time, Carolyn noticed her old friend actually took the time to listen.
As the meal drew to a close, Daniel realized, although Thompson had moments of being pompous and stuffy, when he wasn't putting on airs, he could be a nice enough fellow. As the dishes were cleared, Norrie asked if they'd like dessert. Blair started to say yes, but both Carolyn and the captain silently discouraged him, and he declined. When the check was presented, Daniel picked it up quickly.
"Captain, please let me pay for lunch."
"I'm afraid I must insist, Mr. Thompson. After all, you're a guest here in town."
"Yes, but I'm not your guest."
"No, but please look at it as my way of apologizing for imposing on your lunch with Mrs. Muir."
"Since you put it that way, I accept."
"Thank you." Looking at Carolyn, Daniel asked, "Will I see you both up at the house, or are you going to be showing Mr. Thompson what Schooner Bay has to offer?"
"We hadn't talked about it. Blair?"
"I walked around town yesterday afternoon. I think I've seen everything it has to offer."
"Then, unless you have other plans, you must come back to the house," she told him.
"Thank you. I would enjoy spending more time with you," he smiled at her, missing the flash of annoyance that appeared on the captain's face.
As they got up to leave, Blair led Carolyn to the front of the restaurant while Daniel stayed behind to leave the tip. Even though their behavior over lunch should have dispelled any rumors – to any reasonable person – Mrs. Shoemaker had a decidedly different interpretation of what had taken place. Turning her back to the couple as they passed, she began to share with her companions what she just knew was really going on. The captain, passing behind her, couldn't help overhearing her comments, and it took everything in him to keep walking when he heard her remark, "Having a woman like Mrs. Muir in town is an embarrassment to the whole community."
Blair and Carolyn, having missed the insult, were waiting by the counter when the seaman joined them.
"Please don't wait for me. I'll take care of this and, perhaps, I'll see you up at the house."
"Thank you for picking up the tab, old man," Blair said, shaking his hand.
"You're welcome. Thank you both for inviting me to join you," he said, smiling at Carolyn.
When he finished paying the bill, Daniel walked back toward where they'd been sitting. No one was more surprised than the Shoemaker party when he stopped at their table, but everyone in the restaurant took notice and watched with interest.
Seeing the imposing figure of Daniel Gregg towering over them, the women stopped talking, immediately. Mrs. Worth and Mrs. Hassenhammer had the good grace to look embarrassed, but Mrs. Shoemaker eyed the seaman with disdain.
"Good afternoon, ladies," he greeted them with a touch of contempt in his voice. "Please excuse my interruption, but I couldn't help overhearing Mrs. Shoemaker's shrill, piercing voice, and the comments she made about Mrs. Muir, her companion, and myself."
The other two women's eyes got wide when the captain turned directly toward Mrs. Shoemaker.
"If you're so intent on spreading stories, you might try the truth for a change. I'm sure the whole town would appreciate it."
"I beg your pardon!" Mrs. Shoemaker huffed.
"You should beg my pardon and everyone else's, for that matter. You, madam, are a foul tempered, nasty minded fishwife, and the main source of gossip in this town. You should be ashamed of yourself," he said, his voice rising. "You have been a thorn in the side of the good people of this community for years, and I honestly don't know why anyone would put up with the likes of you. As for your latest spitefulness, madam, you couldn't hold a candle to Mrs. Muir in any way, shape, or form, and if you really want to know who the biggest embarrassment to Schooner Bay is, I suggest you look in a mirror."
"Well, I never!"
"That would explain a lot," Daniel replied. He turned to walk away but changed his mind. Giving her a look that was known to send grown men cowering, he spoke in a low, menacing growl. "If you continue to slander Mrs. Muir's good name, or that of any member of her family, you should know my attorney has the authority to bring suit against you, or anyone else, in my absence," he finished, glaring at all three women.
Standing up straight, pulling down his cuffs, he smiled scornfully as he wished them a good day.
The women stared straight ahead, not daring to look around, for fear of making eye contact with the other patrons. Everyone in the restaurant had been listening and, after a few moments of dead silence, people began to applaud, and a few men shook Daniel's hand as he made his way out.
XXXXX
The afternoon at Gull Cottage was quiet. Martha was busy in the kitchen and, when he arrived, the captain spent most of his time working in the barn. Carolyn and the children, with Scruffy at their heels, gave Blair a tour of the back of the property, going only as far as the pond. They offered to take him down to the beach, but he declined, saying he didn't want to ruin his boots. When it was suggested that he could go barefoot, he cringed at the thought and suggested they go back to the house. Candy and Jonathan were disappointed, wishing – not for the first time that day – they didn't have to spend time with Mr. Thompson. They knew they would be having much more fun with their mom and Captain Gregg, without him.
When the couple returned to the house, Scruffy followed them, and the kids went to the barn to be with their hero. The seaman had been busy in his workshop and, while he was there, gave the swing a good cleaning to get it ready to hang on the porch – after Blair Thompson left town. He was just finishing when Candy and Jonathan joined him.
"Hi, Captain!"
"Well, hello you two. How was the tour?"
"Boring," Jonathan complained.
"Mr. Thompson doesn't want to do anything," Candy added.
"Yeah, he didn't even want to go for a walk on the beach."
"Well, he is your mother's guest, so it's only polite that you should accommodate his wishes."
"I guess so, but we hope he doesn't stay much longer. Jonathan and I want to do things with you and Mom, and we can't do that with him around."
"I know it's difficult, but we'll have time once he's gone. You can wait that long, can't you?"
"Gee, we waited a long time for you to come home, and now we have to wait again."
"I know, lad," Daniel replied, understanding exactly how they felt.
"We really missed you," Candy added.
"And I missed you both . . . more than you can know," he replied from his heart. "How were things while I was gone? Were you okay? You didn't miss me too much did you?"
"Oh, we missed you a lot!" they said together.
They went on to tell him about the calendar they made and how they talked about him all the time . . . about things he written to them about, adventures they'd had with him, gifts he'd given them, or how much they liked just talking with him. There was no question that they loved him and loved being with him.
"It made us feel like you weren't really gone, or that you'd be back in a few days," Candy said, hugging him around the waist.
"We even made plans for when you came back!" Jonathan told him.
Candy, worried her brother was going to spill the beans about their surprise, gave him the evil eye to keep him quiet.
"Oh? What have you planned for us to do now that I'm home?" the captain asked, squatting in front of them, so they were eye to eye.
"Well, in your Christmas note, you said you'd take me out on your ship and show me how to use my telescope."
"Aye, I did but, Jonathan, what would you think about the whole family sailing on the Kitty Keane?"
His sister's eyes lit up at the idea, and her smile was as broad as the barn.
"But I didn't think girls were allowed on ships."
"Well, it depends on the ship and it's captain. The Kitty Keane is my ship, and I can invite whomever I want to sail with me," Daniel smiled.
"I guess it would be okay," he said, kicking the dirt at his feet. "But we'll have time to do things, just the two of us, won't we?"
"Oh course, we will, lad. We'll spend time together, as a family, and individually. I'm happy doing anything either of you want to do."
Both children put their arms around him,
"I wish we were a real family," Candy remarked.
"Yeah, that would be nifty!" Jonathan added.
Daniel tried to remember what "nifty" meant but could only assume, from the boy's inference, it was a good thing.
"I do too, mates. I do too."
They talked for quite a while until it seemed the children were talked out. Jonathan, taking advantage of the break in the conversation, asked if they could go inside for a snack. Daniel looked at his pocket watch.
"It is about that time, isn't it? Let's go. First one there gets an extra cookie!" the seaman challenged as he started out of the barn. A split second later, two eager children were chasing him to the house.
XXXXX
In the living room, the childhood friends were sitting on the couch, talking over old times, laughing, and enjoying each other's company as they reminisced. Blair had been waiting for an opening ever since they'd gotten to the house and, feeling the time was right, took her hand in his.
"Carolyn, it's time we had a serious discussion about your future . . . about our future."
"Mrs. Muir," came a call from the hallway. "I've got some fresh tea and cookies for you and Mr. Thompson," Martha said as she arrived with the tray. Scruffy followed her into the room and settled himself in the chair by the fireplace.
Carolyn quickly reclaimed her hand and turned to the older woman. Blair was beginning to think the whole family was conspiring against him.
"Thank you, Martha. That will be lovely."
"I thought you might be hungry," she said, putting the tray on the table in front of her. "If you need anything else, just let me know."
XXXXX
When she returned to the kitchen, Martha heard the happy screams of the children as they ran to the house, with the captain in hot pursuit. She chuckled as she put the snack out for them, swearing she could set her timepiece by Jonathan's appetite.
She sat at the table and enjoyed a cookie or two with them while they talked.
"Hey! I got to the house first. I get an extra cookie!" Jonathan smiled, showing off his milk mustache.
Daniel took one off his plate and put it on the lad's, receiving a raised eyebrow from Martha.
"A prize for the victor," he said simply.
"Where's mom?" the boy asked, eyeing his extra cookie.
"She's having tea with Mr. Thompson in the living room."
Daniel looked up and smiled. When Martha saw the expression on his face, she began to wonder what he was up to now.
"Since your mother's not available, where do you keep the stories, she wrote for you?" the captain asked the children. "This might be a good time to look through them."
"They're usually in our room, but Mom asked us to bring them down this morning. She put them on the desk in the alcove," Candy answered.
"Yeah, she said you wanted to read them. Do you want me to get them for you?" Jonathan asked.
"No, lad, I'll get them. You stay here and enjoy your cookies. I won't be long," Daniel answered.
Explaining that he didn't want to disturb Mrs. Muir and her guest; the seaman went the back way to the alcove to retrieve the stories. Martha was chuckling as he left the kitchen. 'What is he up to now?' she wondered.
He slipped quietly into the alcove and spied the books on the desk. Picking them up, he stopped when he heard Carolyn's voice. Moving to the curtain separating the two rooms, and feeling only slightly guilty for eavesdropping, he peeked through a gap between the curtains.
They were sitting together on the couch, and Carolyn was asking Blair how he liked his tea. She prepared his before fixing her own and, facing her old friend, raised her cup in a toast.
"To the two of us."
Clicking their cups together, Blair thought this might finally be his chance.
"Do you really mean that?"
"Oh, I'd drink to the two of us anytime, Blair."
"Ah," he said, raising his cup to take a sip. "But will you marry me?"
Daniel smiled as he waited to see how she was going to, politely, decline his proposal, but his heart nearly stopped when he heard her reply.
"Yes."
"Well, I'll keep . . ." When her words registered, Blair thought he'd heard her wrong. "What?"
"You asked if I'd marry you, and I said yes."
In disbelief, he repeated what she'd said.
"I asked if you'd marry me, and you said . . ."
"Yes."
With a shocked look on his face, he put down his tea without drinking it.
In the alcove, Daniel's shocked face outdid Blair's a hundredfold.
"I've been asking for so long, I almost gave up!" he said, getting to his feet. "Well, ah . . . let's set a date. How about next spring . . . or would you rather wait until the summer?"
"How about tomorrow?"
At this point, Daniel's eyes were about to pop out of their sockets. It was all he could do to stay where he was.
"Tomorrow. Wonderful!" he replied with a touch of doubt in his voice. "Don't we need a license and . . . everything?"
"Well, then as soon as possible," she suggested.
"You finally accepted me!" Blair said, walking away from her toward the alcove, causing the seaman to move so he wouldn't be seen.
"Oh, we've accepted you," Carolyn said, putting her cup down to join him. "You not only get a wife, but a ready-made family; two children, a housekeeper, and a dog."
He turned to face her and, as he did, she noticed the curtain over the alcove doorway move. Recognizing the familiar blue eyes of a certain sea captain, she smiled and winked at him.
Seeing her smile and acknowledgement, Daniel relaxed. It was then his mind cleared, and the comment she'd made, to trust her if he heard her say something completely outrageous to Blair, came to mind. In a hundred years, he never would have imagined it would be this. If possible, he listened even more attentively to figure out what she was up to.
"That's right. I hadn't thought of that," Blair replied.
"You finally get a chance to settle down. Oh, I know you've longed to settle down."
"Oh, yes, yes, I certainly have."
"How bored you must be with bachelor life. No responsibility, never knowing where you'll be week to week . . . or with whom."
"I blame that on the private rail car."
"Well, that's all behind you now."
"That's right," he said, moving away from her toward the door. "No more drifting about, doing whatever I please."
"That's right!"
Daniel was shaking his head, wondering, 'What is this clever woman up to?'
Taking a serious tone, Blair turned around and pointed to her.
"Carolyn, I don't want you to rush into this. It isn't fair to sweep you off your feet."
Hearing that, Daniel was so surprised, he almost verbalized the "WHAT?!" exploded into his thoughts.
"Oh, I hardly think that, after all these years, I've been swept off my feet."
"What I mean is, I want you to be sure."
"What makes you think I'm not?"
"I don't know," he replied, walking away from her again. "I'd just never forgive myself if I felt I'd taken advantage . . . pressured you . . . into a hasty decision," he explained badly. "You know what I mean."
"Yes, Blair," she replied thoughtfully, overacting just a bit. "I think I do."
He took her response as agreement and moved away to sit on the couch.
"It's only fair you take time and think about this . . . and, until you have . . ." he said as she joined him, "I certainly won't hold you to anything."
"Oh, if you feel that way, I won't hold you to the proposal."
"Good," he said, clearly relieved. "Perhaps, under the circumstances, it would be better if I don't stay for dinner. I wouldn't want my presence to influence you," he said, standing and walking toward the door. "Besides, I have to be in Newburyport by noon, Monday."
"I understand," she said seriously. "Let me at least walk you out."
The old friends said their goodbye on the porch, and Carolyn watched as he quickly drove his carriage away from Gull Cottage without the slightest glance in her direction. Returning to the house, she found Daniel waiting for her in the living room.
"Why did he come here? Why would he ask you to marry him if he didn't mean it?"
"Daniel, I learned a long time ago, Blair only wants what he can't have. If I'd have kept saying no to him, he and I could have lived happily ever after."
Understanding finally came to him, and his mouth formed as if to say "Oh." Casually wrapping his arms around her, he kissed her softly.
"Well, then I'm glad you finally accepted his proposal," he admitted in a low, caressing tone. "If that clears the way for you and I to live our happily ever after."
Before she could answer, his mouth claimed hers, and he showed her just how pleased he was to finally be rid of that Philadelphia dandy and have her to himself.
"Mrs. Muir? Did I just see Mr. Thompson heading down the . . .?" Martha was saying before she stopped in her tracks.
The couple separated and looked at her with contented smiles.
"I suppose this means Mr. Thompson won't be here for dinner?"
"You suppose correctly, Martha," Daniel answered.
"Thank goodness! I don't think I could have taken another meal like last night, and I know the children couldn't."
Candy and Jonathan came running up behind them.
"Where's Mr. Thompson?"
"He remembered he had a train to catch," Carolyn said, with a mischievous sparkle in her eye.
"So, he's gone?" Candy asked.
"Yes. He asked me to say goodbye for him."
Both children appeared ready to break out in a cheer, until they saw the look on their mother's face, and stopped abruptly.
"Blast!" Jonathan said with a big smile on his face.
"Jonathan!" His mother tried to scold him but couldn't pull it off. One look at the smiles around the room had her chuckling and, before she knew it, the whole family was laughing.
As the merriment settled down, Daniel took out his pocket watch.
"Martha, do we have time for a stroll on the beach before dinner?" he asked.
"As long as you don't go too far, that should be fine."
"Ready, mates?"
"Can anyone come along?" Carolyn asked.
Daniel turned to her.
"Forgive me, my dear. I assumed you understood you were a member of the crew and, as such, a mate, as is Martha; if she'd care to join us."
"Oh, go on, you," Martha blushed and left the room.
"Shall we go?" he asked his crew.
Smiling broadly, Carolyn raised her hand in a sharp salute.
"Aye, aye, sir!"
Candy, Jonathan, and Scruffy didn't waste any time running outside. By the time their mom and the captain reached the porch, they were already waiting at the gate.
XXXXX
It was a perfect day for a walk on the beach. The sun was high in the sky, there was a slight breeze coming in off the water, and it was warm enough for the hardy souls of Maine to believe summer had finally arrived. When they reached the sand, the children immediately took off their shoes to enjoy being barefoot after the long winter.
Once their course was set, the family started out. Candy and Jonathan stayed with their mom and the captain for a while, just happy being together. As was their practice, though, their curiosity got the better of them, and they ran ahead with Scruffy, leaving the couple alone. Daniel, his lady on his arm, smiled and looked down at her.
"After dinner, I think I'll hang your swing . . . as long as you're sure Mr. Thompson won't be returning."
She chuckled and pulled herself closer to him.
"I would be surprised if he hasn't already boarded his private railroad car and is waiting, impatiently, for a train, going anywhere, to take him as far away from Schooner Bay as possible."
"Why do you think he came up here now?"
"My best guess is that his parents think it's time for him to settle down and get serious about his future."
"I take it his life as a wealthy bon vivant is becoming too much for their taste?"
"That's it exactly. Mother mentioned it in her last letter. I don't know if it's true but, for years, it's been rumored that Blair told his parents I was the only girl for him. While I was married, he was safe and had their sympathies but, after Robert died, and my mourning period came to an end, I think they started pushing him to start courting me. I'm sure he came up here to propose, expecting me refuse him again. That way, he could go back to Philadelphia and tell them he'd tried, but I wouldn't accept him."
"You threw him off course when you accepted."
"I did. Poor Blair," she said shaking her head. "I don't know what he'll do now. Based on what Mother told me, his parents are afraid he's getting too old to . . . ah . . . meet his family obligations."
"Ah . . . they want grandchildren and a legacy, I would imagine. Well, he's young yet."
"Yes, he's only a few years younger than you."
"As I said, there's time," he smiled, thinking how fortunate he was to have finally found the woman he hoped to have all those things with and more. "Maybe he just hasn't found the right woman. He certainly can't have you!"
"Oh?"
"Madam, you have already scared him away by making him think you were interested in providing him with a 'ready-made family.' I've never seen anyone turn-tale and run like he did," Daniel chuckled. "My love, make no mistake, you are mine . . . as I am yours . . . for now and all eternity. All you have to do is ask."
"Ask?
"Yes."
"Ask you to marry me?"
He nodded.
"I couldn't do that!"
"Why not?"
"I don't know . . . A woman can't just walk up to a man and say, 'I love you. Will you marry me?'"
"I don't see why she can't. I'd be honored to hear you say it."
"Daniel, it just isn't done. What would the likes of Mrs. Shoemaker have to say if they found out I asked you to marry me? It would play right into the lies they're already spreading all over town."
"Madam, we both know that you don't give a hang for opinions of nosey busy bodies like Mrs. Shoemaker," he said reasonably. "Besides, I don't think you'll be having any trouble with that nasty shrew of a woman anymore or, at least, I hope you won't."
She stopped and looked at him.
"Cap-tian, what did you do?"
"Me, madam?" he said splaying his fingers over his chest.
"Yes, you. What did you do?"
"Let's just say I was privy to some of the vicious gossip she has been spewing about you and corrected her, and her minions, on a few things."
"What did you say?! What did she say?!"
"Nothing you need concern yourself with, my dear. I am hopeful we won't be hearing her large uncontrollable tongue wagging about town anymore. At least as far as you and I are concerned."
"You put her in her place?"
"I did."
She looked down at the sand, and then back up at him with a brilliant smile.
"Oh, I wish I'd been there. I would love to have seen her face . . . all their faces," she said, putting her arm around his waist as they started walking again.
"Apparently, most, who did see the confrontation, found it quiet entertaining," he informed her. "I was applauded as I left the restaurant."
"You did it at Norrie's?! There wasn't an empty seat in there!"
"Quite," he smiled, extremely proud of himself.
She stopped walking and looked up at him.
"Daniel Gregg, have I told you today how much I love you?"
"As a matter of fact, you haven't."
"Well, I do. Thank you for standing up for me . . . for us . . . to that awful woman."
"Carolyn, I will always protect you and the children with all that is in me."
"My dear Captain, I am aware of that, every day, whether we're together or not," she smiled, gazing in his eyes.
If she were going to do it, now would have been the perfect moment to propose, but she lost her nerve, then her train of thought, when he took her in his arms and kissed her.
Hearing giggling coming from nearby, the couple separated and shared a look. Carolyn had hoped to avoid being found out for a bit longer, while Daniel knew it was inevitable. They had been away from one another for too long, and they both found it difficult not to touch and/or kiss when they were together. Fighting smiles, they looked down at the children and Scruffy.
"I told you they loved each other enough to kiss," Candy told her brother in a superior tone.
"I know but, gee Captain, Mom's a girl!" Jonathan said, his disappointment evident in his voice.
"No, lad, your mother is a woman, and that makes all the difference in the world," Daniel looked at her lovingly.
"You won't catch me kissing any old girl."
"I would hope not, but talk to me in a few years, when a lovely young woman catches your eye," the seaman replied, smiling; his arm still around his love.
"Yuck!" was the boy's only reply.
Carolyn squeezed Daniel's hand and shared a knowing look with him.
"Mom, we're hungry. Do you think dinner will be ready soon?" Candy asked.
"I think it might be by the time we get to the house. Do you want to head back?"
"Yes, ma'am!"
They walked back together, the children talking about things they'd seen, and everything else under the sun, but no mention was made of the couple kissing. Their mother suspected it would only be a temporary reprieve, especially with her daughter. Candy would be ten on her next birthday and was very inquisitive. She had no doubt the two of them would be having a private, mother-daughter, conversation sometime in the very near future.
As they walked, Carolyn couldn't help smiling. This was what she had always wanted for her children, and what they'd all been waiting for since Daniel left . . . being together as a family.
XXXXX
Dinner was a much different affair than the previous evening. They talked and laughed through most of the meal and, as it wound down, Daniel told a few stories of his latest voyage, and one or two others, that made the women wonder how he had survived it all to be sitting there with them. One minute he'd have them on the edge of their seat in anticipation and, the next, laughing hysterically.
As Carolyn took it all in, the thought of Blair Thompson participating in anything remotely like this made her very glad he'd left when he did.
When Jonathan's request for a second helping of pie was denied, and the others had finished their dessert, they all pitched in to clean the kitchen for Martha. Refusing to sit down and relax, she appointed herself commander and ensured everything was, as the captain would say, "ship shape and Bristol fashion."
As the last dish was put away, the children were reminded it was Saturday and time for their baths. The women took full advantage of Daniel being there, and he made several trips taking the warm water upstairs. Carolyn, with the children close behind, followed him and got things started. After doing his part, the captain left them to their ablutions and made a hasty retreat to the barn. Candy took her bath first, while their mom tried to keep Jonathan on task. He had already slipped out of the room once, to look for the seaman, but came back when he couldn't find him.
XXXXX
Twenty minutes later, Candy, freshly scrubbed with her hair wrapped in a towel, came downstairs looking for the captain. She found him in the living room reading one of the books her mom had written. Hearing her feet pad across the hall, Daniel looked up.
"Hello, lass. Good bath?"
She smiled as she plopped down next to him.
"Yes. I got to go first tonight, that always makes it a good bath."
"I can see how it would," he smiled. "Is your hair wet?"
"A little bit, but it'll dry."
"Come stand in front of me," he said getting up to re-settle himself on the arm of the couch. "Let's see if we can get it dry sooner. It's too chilly this evening to go to bed with wet hair."
Doing as she was told, she took the towel off her head and handed it to him.
He turned her around and began towel drying the hair down her back. As he worked, they talked about school and the friends she'd made, and he told her he was finding the book her mother had written very interesting.
"Which one?!"
"It's called The Schoolyard Mystery."
"Oh, that was one of the first stories mom wrote after we moved here. She gave it to me for my birthday," she reminded him. "It's one of my favorites, but I really like them all."
"I think it's very good too. Have any of your friends read them?"
"Linda Coburn has been up to the house, and she's read them all. She also likes Jonathan's pirate stories."
"Your mother is a very talented writer."
"I think so too."
They continued talking until Daniel felt he had gotten her hair as dry as it could be.
"Thank you, Captain."
"You're welcome, my girl," he said, giving her a loving smile.
Candy had trouble saying anything for a moment; she was so thrilled to be 'his girl.'
"Will you come up and tuck us in again?"
"If that's what you wish, I would be honored."
"And will you read more of Jonathan's story to us?"
"Of course. I can't wait to find out what happens next," he said, winking at her. "Now, step up here on the couch; it's time to go upstairs."
"Step on the couch?"
"Aye," he said, presenting his hand to assist her.
Just as she stepped on the couch, Martha entered the room and was ready to scold her, until she realized what was about to happen. Daniel smiled at the older woman then turned to Candy.
"Miss Muir, your steed awaits," he said, motioning for her to climb on his back.
"Really?"
"Yes, that is, if you want a ride upstairs."
"Do I!" she said quickly, climbing on his back.
The captain secured her legs around his waist, while she held him around his neck, and off they went.
"Goodnight, Martha," Candy giggled as she 'rode' by.
XXXXX
In the nursery, Carolyn was trying to get Jonathan to sit still so she could towel his hair dry, but it became a lost cause when the captain entered with Candy riding on his back.
"Hey!" the lad whined.
His sister was so pleased at her circumstance she didn't bother to gloat or say anything to annoy him further.
"Now, lad . . . let's not have any of that," Daniel said, letting his rider gently down on her bed. "What seems to be the problem?"
"Nothing, sir," Jonathan said quietly.
The seaman exchanged a look with Carolyn, and she could tell he had something up his sleeve, she just didn't know what.
"My dear, now that your beautiful daughter's hair is dry, I believe it may need to be brushed, but that isn't something I have any practice with. Perhaps we should trade places. I have much more experience drying hair than . . ." he trailed off, lifting a long strand of Candy's hair.
"Yes, I see your point, but how are you at braiding?"
"I am very good at splicing rope together and tying knots, and I'm especially good at untying knots," he said, hesitating with a mischievous gleam in his eye. "However, I have little to no experience braiding a young girl's hair. That, I believe, is something best left to you, madam."
She nodded and gave him the most charming smile, as she crossed in front of him to get Candy's brush. Daniel watched appreciatively until she turned, catching his eyes trailing down her back. At being caught, he abruptly turned his attention back to Jonathan.
"Come on, son, let's get your hair dry."
Jonathan was suddenly very cooperative and allowed the captain to dry his hair without any fuss. Carolyn finished brushing out Candy's hair, and had begun braiding it, as the 'men' finished. Unexpectedly, Daniel grabbed the boy and lifted him over his head, telling him to spread his arms like a bird so he could fly. Doing as he was told, Jonathan 'flew' around the room, swerving and diving until he finally crash-landed onto his bed.
'So much for keeping them calm before putting them to sleep,' their mother thought, trying not to smile.
Catching the look on Carolyn's face, Daniel realized he may have overstepped a bit, considering the hour, and tried to make amends by getting the children settled so he could read more from The Mystery of Squirrel Island.
Like the calm after a wild storm at sea, the transformation to their bedtime routine was that distinct. Carolyn and Daniel tucked them in together and, as they had done the previous night, sat at the foot of the beds while the seaman's voice lulled the children, and Scruffy, to their slumber in record time.
XXXXX
Coming down from the nursery, the couple stepped into the living room and found Martha there with sewing in her lap.
"Martha, Carolyn and I will be out on the porch . . . If that meets with your approval."
There was a slight pause before she replied.
"As long as you remain upright, I suppose I can agree to that," she said, hoping she was making the right decision. "But don't be out there too long, I'd rather not have a repeat of last night."
"Dear lady, you have my word."
"Thank you, Captain . . . but what about you, Mrs. Muir?"
Even with her face turning red, Carolyn couldn't help but chuckle as she answered.
"I'll do my best, Martha."
Daniel took her hand and led her out of the room. As the front door closed, Martha could only shake her head.
"Oh, to be young and in love again."
XXXXX
As the couple stepped out onto the porch, it was nearly dark, but Carolyn couldn't help noticing her Christmas gift hanging near the kitchen window.
"Oh, Daniel!"
Smiling, he walked her to the swing.
"Ladies first."
Sitting down, she smiled up at him, her hands resting on the seat as she swung her legs back and forth.
"It's perfect, or will be, as soon as you're here beside me," she beckoned, patting the space to her right.
"I thought you'd never ask," he smiled.
Daniel sat as instructed and put his arm around her. Carolyn settled against him and sighed, resting her hand over his heart as he pulled her closer. Leaving the motion of the swing to him, she was content just being in his arms, but it only took a few moments before he looked down and kissed her softly.
"Is there a word for 'beyond perfect?'" she asked quietly, gazing up at him.
"Perhaps not a word, but an idea," he said, his voice husky.
"An idea?" she asked softly not taking her eyes off his.
"Aye. A simple one really . . . 'You and me for eternity,'" he replied, kissing her as a reminder of how deep his love for her truly was.
Her hand came up to his face and brushed his beard.
"I like that."
"The idea, the kiss, or the beard?"
She chuckled softly.
"All three, of course! The 'idea' conveys our feelings precisely . . . and it even rhymes," she smiled. "The kiss, as are all your kisses, was enough to make me break any promise I've made to behave myself where you're concerned – and I look forward to many more. As for the facial hair, I never knew how much I liked a man in a beard until I met you."
He kissed her softly and smiled.
"Does that mean, if I had been clean shaven, you wouldn't have given me a second look?"
"Well," she said drawing out the word. "You did have a few other attributes going for you too."
"Oh? Such as?"
Smiling to herself, Carolyn decided to tease him a bit.
"Are you sure you want to know? You might change your mind about me."
"My love, that will never happen."
"I don't know. You might realize what a superficial woman I truly am."
"Carolyn, the last thing you are is superficial."
"All right, I'll tell you . . . but only if you're sure."
"I'm sure. Now, get on with it, woman!" he said, as if giving orders to his crew.
"All right . . . since you asked so 'sweetly.'"
That remark got her his famous captain's look.
"You do know you're very good looking?" she asked rhetorically. "So, it's shouldn't come as a surprise that, among all the participants at the Seafarer's Games, you were the one I noticed before the competition even began. Once it did, while I was impressed with your ability to clean fish, it didn't really hold much appeal to me, but . . . you looked very handsome doing it," she teased. "I must admit, though, the deck swabbing contest was eye opening. I had a very interesting view for that . . . I was behind you. When the event began, it was hard not to notice when you bent over."
Her admission actually had him raising an eyebrow in surprise.
"Then, there was the barrel moving contest, when you lifted those heavy barrels as if they were empty, and the harpoon throwing event, where your throw was so strong they had trouble removing the harpoon from that poor painted whale," she said sympathetically, causing him to smile and shake his head.
"By the time it came to the last contest, if it were possible, I found you even more attractive."
"Really? How so? As I recall, I was quite unkempt by the end."
"Yes, you were! You were wearing black pants, and a white shirt that buttoned down the front. With each event, you grew a little more bedraggled. Your shirt became untucked and was soaked through with . . . Daniel, I don't know if you know this or not but, when your shirt is wet, you may as well not have it on."
"Mrs. Muir!" he said in faux shock.
"I could see right through it, as could every woman there, and I saw for the first time what a well-developed physique you have," she explained as the feather light touch of her hand made its way over his chest.
"The first time? What other time did you see me like that?"
"It was that night we got soaked in that rainstorm. Don't you remember? I walked in on you after you'd taken your shirt off to hang it by the fire."
"Ah, yes," he said tugging on his ear. "By the way, it was a squall, not a rainstorm."
She nodded, with a twinkle in her eye, and continued on about his many attributes.
"Not only was your shirt soaked, but a few of the buttons had come undone . . . leaving very little to the imagination," she commented saucily, undoing several of his buttons to demonstrate. "Daniel, seeing you like that . . . your opened shirt showing just enough chest hair to make it interesting, your taut stomach, and well-defined arms . . . it's a wonder I didn't swoon at the sight of you. As it was, you took my breath away, and I realized immediately what a magnificent man you were."
"So, you were attracted to my good looks," he said, his vanity showing even when he was trying to maintain some semblance of control as her hand slipped inside his shirt.
"I certainly noticed your appearance, but do you want to know what attracted me more than anything else?"
"After everything you've mentioned, I can't imagine what it could possibly be," he admitted taking ahold of her hand.
Carolyn looked up at him.
"You dear man . . . it was . . . is . . . and always will be . . . your eyes. The first time our eyes met . . . I was yours . . . whether either one of us knew it or not. I thought my heart was going to beat out of my chest in joy . . . as if I'd found where I belonged. I didn't understand where those feelings came from. For goodness sake, you were a complete stranger but, I knew, if I wasn't careful, I could lose myself completely in you."
The conversation ended abruptly, when he took her in his arms, and they lost themselves in each other. Their kisses were urgent and hungry, and their mouths joined and feasted on the warm, moist softness they found in each other.
Things ended as quickly as they began, though, when Daniel forgot where they were and shifted his position, upsetting their balance. In one quick motion, he planted his foot and held Carolyn close to him to make sure she didn't fall. Then, before they had time to recover from the mishap, they heard insistent rapping coming from the kitchen window. Looking that way, they saw the light of a candle and Martha's 'look' reminding them of their promises. Holding back their laughter, they re-situated themselves to a steadier, more modest position then turned back to see the housekeeper, with her candle, moving away.
"I should have thought twice before hanging your swing in front of Martha's domain," Daniel grumbled.
Carolyn fell back into his arms and began to chuckle. He kissed her hair, held her close, and the rumble of laughter coming from his chest made her laugh harder.
"This is ridiculous," she finally said. "What kind of trouble does she expect us to get into on a swing?"
"Oh, I don't know . . ."
"Daniel!" she exclaimed, as if shocked.
"I'll have to think further on the matter, but I'm sure I can come up with something."
"Daniel Gregg! You wouldn't!"
"Not now, of course, but think how much fun it will be once our 'one day' arrives."
As he smiled at her, she returned it with humor in her eyes.
"I love you, Carolyn."
"I'm very glad, because I love you too, Daniel."
Author's Note
And so, part one has come to an end. There will be a break until part two is completed. It's only half written, and I don't know how long it will be, but Daniel and Carolyn's story will pick up on the next day.
As always, a special thank you goes to my beta, Mary. She is always ready to read my work and set me straight. Thank you, my friend, I am always grateful for your suggestions, input – and commentary – as you read.