Sunday began quietly at Gull Cottage. Martha was up early with the intention of getting a head start on the dinner preparations but, as was the case when the children had a day off from school, taking care of Scruffy fell to her. He could be patient during the week, since Candy and Jonathan got up early too but, when they slept in, he couldn't wait for them to wake up to feed him and take him outside.

Once she had taken care of his needs, she was free to focus on the day's main meal before cooking breakfast for the family. The pup had settled in his basket but kept a sharp eye out for any treats that might find their way to the floor.

Carolyn was awake early too, but she chose to take advantage of a few quiet moments to herself. She briefly went over the events of the previous night and wondered what Ralph's mood would be when he woke up, and what the day might bring as a result. While those thoughts came to mind almost as soon as she awoke, they were quickly pushed aside. As she did most mornings, her thoughts were of Daniel, and what their lives would be like 'one day,' when they woke up together.

As was their practice on Saturday and Sunday, the children got up and went immediately to the master cabin. After their usual discussion as to whose turn it was to knock, they rushed into the room and hopped into bed with their mom to talk about the plan for the day.

Marjorie was awake, performing her morning ablutions, while Ralph continued to sleep. It had not been a restful night for either one of them. He'd fallen asleep, or rather passed out, as soon as Captain Gregg helped him to bed, but, after the first hour or two, he was either tossing and turning or snoring loud enough to wake the dead. After all he'd had to drink, she was just relieved he didn't get sick. Him getting drunk and making a fool of himself, in front of their son's widow and her new beau, was bad enough but having to clean up after him would have pushed her completely over the edge. His antics made it difficult for her to maintain control sometimes, but last night had been especially difficult.

At home, the Muirs didn't share a bedroom; they had slept in separate wings of their ridiculously large house, so Marjorie rarely had to deal with his late night, or overnight, disruptions. After last night's performance, she was grateful she didn't have to deal with that kind of behavior regularly. She'd never been happy living in the mansion he'd insisted on buying, but it did provide distance from him, which helped make her life more bearable when he bothered to come home.

It had been a long night, and she didn't know how much sleep she'd actually gotten; she just knew it wasn't enough. It was sure to catch up with her later, and she just hoped the day would be a quiet one. Unfortunately, that would depend on her husband's mood and Marjorie suspected it would not be any better than it had been the last two days. She doubted they would get through it without a repeat of his boorish behavior.

Recalling everything that happened the night before, she found it easier to blame her loss of sleep on Ralph's snoring than to face the truth she'd learned from his drunken boasting. Her eyes had been opened wide to the kind of man her son had truly been, and to just how vile a man her husband was. When she did let her mind wander to what she'd heard, it bothered her that she wasn't all that shocked by the information. What did surprise her was Carolyn's reaction to his revelations. Her son's widow wasn't stunned or surprised. Her expression was more like she had received confirmation of what she'd suspected all along, and, if that were truly the case, what kind of life had the family been living while Robert was alive?

As she fixed her hair, Marjorie wasn't sure what she was going to do or say to Ralph, nor did she know what to expect when he woke up. Would he remember the things he'd said and, if he did, would he admit to them? She also wondered if he would finally give up his plan to get Carolyn and the children to move back to Philadelphia? As much as she wanted them to live nearby, if he believed they would move back home, he was a bigger fool than she knew him to be. Captain Gregg was in their lives now, and she believed Carolyn and the children were more content than she'd ever seen them. It was more than likely they would continue to build a life here, in Schooner Bay, with him.

'Ralph will probably want to talk to the captain about his intentions toward Carolyn . . . not that he cares about her . . . but he will definitely want to know what he has in mind for Jonathan and Candace."

As that thought crossed her mind, another pushed it out of the way.

"Surely, he'll remember meeting him; he hadn't been that drunk, had he?"

She paused in her musings, distracted by the noise behind her, and looked at her husband. He was lying on his back, snoring so loudly if she hadn't already been awake she would have been in short order.

'After what I've seen since we arrived, I can't imagine Carolyn allowing the men to discuss her future, and that of the children, without being present, and she certainly wouldn't hesitate to speak up, if they tried to make decisions for her. She has a mind of her own and would make her plans perfectly clear. She's always been a different breed of woman, and she seems to be even stronger now,' she thought. 'I only wish I had been that self-assured, all those years ago.'

Checking her hair in the mirror, she saw movement behind her as Ralph woke himself up with his snoring. He rolled over, opened his eyes with a groan, and closed them just as quickly. With a final glance at her reflection, Marjorie walked over to the bed and, without any preamble, looked down at him and spoke.

"We're going to church with the family. Get up and make yourself presentable. When you've finished, come downstairs," she said coldly and left the room.

XXXXX

As the amazing aromas of breakfast cooking wafted through the house, the family followed them to the kitchen as if being beckoned. Carolyn and the children arrived together and greeted Martha and Scruffy with a cheerful 'good morning.' As Candy and Jonathan took their seats, their pup took his place by them, and the lady of the house sat down and gratefully accepted a cup of coffee, savoring the aroma and restorative powers of the hot brew. Marjorie arrived a few minutes later but was more subdued in her mood .

"Good morning," Carolyn said smiling, while the children followed suit.

"Good morning, Grandmother."

"Good morning, children," she smiled. "Good morning, Carolyn," she replied, meeting her daughter-in-law's eyes. An acknowledgement passed between them, as the young woman motioned for her to take the seat next to her.

"Good morning, Mrs. Muir," Martha greeted her. "Can I get you coffee or tea this morning?"

"Coffee, please. Thank you, Martha."

As she joined the others, Jonathan looked across the table and spoke up.

"Where's Grandfather?"

"He's upstairs getting dressed. He should be down soon."

"Is he coming to church with us?" Candy asked.

"Of course, he is. He's just moving slowly this morning," she explained, glancing again at her daughter-in-law.

A few minutes later, a knock came from the front door.

"It's Captain Gregg! It's Captain Gregg!" Jonathan shouted, slipping off his chair, and running out of the room with Scruffy, as his mother and Martha called for him to slow down.

Reaching the door, he jerked it open to find his hero smiling down at both of them.

"Good morning, you two."

"Hi Captain," he said, grabbing him by the hand. "Come on in, you're just in time for breakfast."

Candy rushed out, only slightly slower than Jonathan had, and enthusiastically greeted Daniel with a hug.

"Good morning, Captain!"

"Hello, my girl," he smiled, returning the affection. Taking in her Sunday attire, he remarked, "I do like that dress!" chucking her under the chin.

A smile lit up her face.

As they turned to go to the kitchen, Ralph was making the turn at the landing and slowly proceeded down the remaining steps. He looked more than a little worse for wear, but the seaman had to give him credit; he was up and moving. By all rights, he should still be in bed, sleeping it off.

"Good morning, Grandfather," the children greeted him cheerfully . . . and loudly.

Daniel watched the older man hesitate, wincing at the volume of their enthusiasm. Ralph's eyes flashed in anger, and he looked as though he was going to snap at them, but, with the captain standing right there, he reluctantly wished them a grumpy 'good morning.'

Candy and Jonathan didn't miss his expression, and their demeanor changed immediately. Sharing a look, they wordlessly followed Scruffy into the kitchen. They didn't want to say or do anything that might bother their grandfather further.

Daniel watched the shift in their mood and his own eyes flashed. He so wanted to put that man in his place for the way he was treating his own grandchildren, not to mention his behavior toward Carolyn, but he held back. There would be time, later in the day, once their guests had gone home. Instead, he waited for Ralph to reach the bottom of the steps before acknowledging him.

The seaman looked him up and down, taking in his appearance with a nondescript expression on his face. He looked pulled together, but there was no hiding his bloodshot eyes and the unmistakable smell of alcohol.

The intense scrutiny he was under had Ralph wondering what the 'sailor' was up to.

"Mr. Muir. I hope the morning finds you well," Daniel greeted him evenly.

Ralph felt like death warmed over, so ignored the statement.

"You're here early," he remarked disagreeably.

"I brought a carriage from town, so we can get everyone to church comfortably."

"You're coming with us?"

"Yes. I . . ."

Before he could complete his response, he noticed Carolyn walking toward them. It wasn't the first time he lost his train of thought when his eyes beheld her. The beguiling smile on her face, meant for only him, completely distracted him, and he could only stare as she approached.

She'd heard the short exchange between them from the kitchen and, not knowing what to expect from either man, came out to keep a lid on things if needed. As she joined them, she looked up at Daniel with complete adoration and ran her hand affectionately down his sleeve. Putting her arm through his, she pulled her eyes away and turned to her father-in-law.

"Good morning, Ralph," she said, mirroring the children's cheerful greeting. "Daniel, the family, and I have a standing date to attend church services together, whenever he's in port."

"Humph," he replied in disgust, brushing past them without another word.

She smiled as she watched him go into the kitchen.

"Martha's fixed a full breakfast for everyone; we hope you're hungry," she said, raising her voice to his retreating back.

As she turned back to Daniel, he couldn't help noticing the mischievous twinkle in her eye.

"Good morning, my love," he said softly. "Are you trying to pick a fight with the incomparable Mr. Muir?"

She chuckled as she met his eyes.

"No, but he needs to be reminded that he's a guest in our house," she explained. "And it doesn't hurt to annoy that grumpy old bear from time to time."

"Ah," he nodded, his eyes reflecting his love and admiration for her.

Suddenly, she was lost in the moment. Never, in all her life, had she seen the passion she saw in Daniel's incredible blue eyes, and it still astonished her that his intense love was meant for her and her alone. It was all she could do not to melt into him right there. Fighting the urge, at least momentarily, she casually led him out of the kitchen doorway, toward the front door, and away from prying eyes. Putting her arms around his neck, she gazed up at him.

"Good morning, Captain," she cooed. "Won't you join us for breakfast?"

"I'd enjoy that very much," he said huskily. Hesitating for only a heartbeat, he pulled her to him and greeted her in a more pleasing manner. The kiss they shared was short but full of promise. As their lips parted, they remained in each other's arms.

"Good morning, my love. How are you this beautiful day?"

"I am fine . . . better than fine . . . now that you're here," she said, pulling him in for another kiss that was more promising than the first.

Reluctantly, Daniel pulled himself together and stepped away from her. Taking her hand, he leaned in and kissed her neck, causing chills to run straight to her core. With a wink and a smile, he kissed her hand, and they joined the family. After he exchanged greetings with Martha and Mrs. Muir, Carolyn motioned for him to take his usual place at the head of the table.

The children's affection toward the sailor, his daughter-in-law's adolescent infatuation with him, and the place reserved for him at the table weren't missed by Ralph. Moments earlier, he'd attempted to claim that seat as his own but was instructed, rather tersely by his wife, to take the one next to her. It was clear to him that this interloper was trying to steal his son's family from him.

Once everyone had taken their seats, he glanced around the table and memories of the previous evening's escapades began niggling at his consciousness. It was when he met Marjorie's glare that it started flooding back to him. Flashes of his behavior played in his mind; the things he'd said about Robert's exploits, and the part he played in some of them, were as clear as if he'd been watching actors on a stage. He remembered seeing his wife looking down at him from the top of the stairs but didn't know if she'd heard what he said or not. He didn't recall being scolded, but she was obviously not pleased with him this morning.

'She always gets on her 'high horse' when I come home late after a night of drinking . . . or more pleasant pursuits,' he thought. "But I don't remember her ever being like this. From her demeanor, she must have heard something. I suppose I'll have to do some fast talking to convince her that what I said wasn't true; just the ramblings of a man who had a little too much to drink," he decided. "She'll believe me. She's always been gullible; it won't be hard to bring her around.'

XXXXX

While the family finished getting ready for church, Daniel brought in a crate containing a few items he'd purchased from the bar at the Inn. After the events of the previous evening, he wasn't going to have Ralph Muir guzzling his good liquor like it was water, but, because of their other guests, he couldn't buy the cheap stuff the old sot deserved.

Finally ready to leave for town, the family filed out of the house to the rented landau parked at the front gate. The children wanted to ride with the captain, but he casually pulled them to the side while their grandfather assisted his wife into the carriage.

"Now mates, your grandparents made the long trip from Philadelphia to spend time with you, and you need to appreciate them while they're here," he told them, not at all sure they agreed with him. "You do understand how important that is, don't you?"

Candy and Jonathan glanced at each other but didn't voice their shared opinion. It wasn't that they weren't enjoying being with their grandmother; she had been more fun than she'd ever been in Philadelphia. Their grandfather, on the other hand, hadn't done anything to endear himself to either one of them, and, based on his mood this morning, it didn't look like it was going to change.

"Yes, sir," they agreed reluctantly.

Jonathan climbed up and the captain lifted Candy into the carriage, where they chose to sit between their grandparents. Daniel then assisted Martha and Carolyn, giving his lady's hand a gentle squeeze before letting go. As he took his place in the driver's seat, he turned back to make sure everyone was settled and, making eye contact with the children, gave them a slight nod. Receiving the captain's approval always made them feel good about themselves, and they sat up straighter and exchanged a smile.

The carriage was the largest one the livery had available and required two horses. It would allow room for the extra guests they expected to bring back with them, although it might be a little tight. Splash had made the trip to Gull Cottage too but was already in the pasture. He would be spending the day with Bonhomme, until it was time for the captain to go back to town at the end of the day.

XXXXX

Pulling up to the front of the church, Daniel stopped the carriage and jumped down to assist the ladies and children. He even offered Ralph a hand but was refused with a withering glare. After telling Carolyn he'd join them shorty, he drove the carriage out of the way to park it behind the building.

The women were talking in the church yard, waiting for his return, when Ralph decided he wasn't going to waste his time and insisted they go inside. Everyone, including Marjorie, suggested they wait for the seaman but, in his usual fashion, Ralph wouldn't listen to any opposing views and, in a familiar condescending manner, motioned for them to go up the stairs.

Carolyn considered ignoring him, but she didn't want to make a scene. The gossip had settled down in the last week, and she had no desire to have it start up again. Her other consideration was Candy and Jonathan. She didn't want to upset them anymore than they already were. As early as it was, they seemed as if they'd had enough of their grandfather for the day . . . and perhaps the visit.

When they reached the vestibule, Carolyn and Martha were surprised when, for only the second time since the family had begun attending services, Reverend Farley was not at the door to greet them. There wasn't even a visiting minister, which puzzled them both.

Making their way down the aisle, the older couple accompanying the Muirs earned the attention of most people. Carolyn and Martha greeted a few friends as they headed toward their usual spot, as did the children, but eyebrows were raised, by certain people, when they noticed Captain Gregg had not accompanied them. The family garnered even more interest when the older man escorting them insisted the young widow and her housekeeper go in first, followed by the Muir children, and then, presumably, his wife and himself.

It was obvious to Carolyn and Martha that Ralph was claiming 'head of the family' status and attempting to push Daniel aside. They could almost see his glee when he realized the pew was only long enough to seat 'his' family . . . and their servant. The look of satisfaction on his face left no doubt of his perceived success at culling the interloper from their party . . . at least for now. It might only be temporary, but, in his mind, it was a start.

Candy and Jonathan didn't miss what was happening and were upset that the captain wouldn't be able to sit with them. They looked to their mother for an answer, and she quietly assured them that everything would be fine. Thinking about it, though, the only solution would be for Daniel to sit directly in front of, or behind, them.

If Ralph's behavior was any indication, the rest of the day was not going to be the quiet, relaxing Sunday they normally enjoyed. Placing her hands in her lap, Carolyn took a deep breath and sighed. 'Dear God, help us get through this visit,' she prayed silently.

Just as they got settled, Reverend Farley came out from behind the altar and, knowing the location the Muirs usually sat, looked in that direction. Relief fell over him when he saw them, and he came down the side aisle, directly toward Martha.

"Good morning, Mrs. Grant," he said quietly.

"Good morning, Reverend. Is everything all right?"

"Yes. Yes, it is, but I do have a favor to ask. I know this is short notice, but Mrs. Farley was called away suddenly; would you be able to play the organ for us this morning?" he asked.

"Of course, I'd be happy to help."

"Is Sarah all right?" Carolyn whispered with concern.

"Yes, she's fine, but she left for Providence early this morning. I'm sure she told you about her sister, Ruth . . ."

Carolyn nodded.

"On top of that heartbreak, Ruth's confinement has turned difficult. Sarah felt she should go right away to help in any way she can."

The women's relief that Mrs. Farley was all right was obvious, and Carolyn assured him the family would be in their prayers.

"Thank you, Mrs. Muir. That brings us great comfort."

"Reverend, if we're going to start on time, I'd better get up to the altar, so I have a few minutes look over the music," Martha reminded him.

"Of course. If there's any hymn you want to change, please feel free to do so."

"I'm sure that won't be necessary but thank you."

"No, thank you, Mrs. Grant. I can't tell you how much I appreciate you helping us," he smiled.

Martha went directly to the altar, and Reverend Farley walked to the back of the church to greet arriving the parishioners. As he reached the vestibule, Daniel and the Horans were coming through the door. While his friends exchanged a few words with the pastor, the captain looked around and couldn't help noticing Ralph Muir sitting on the center aisle of the pew the family was in. Carolyn had been relegated to the far end, and he had no doubt whose idea that had been. It seemed the children's grandfather was attempting to claim the position of the Muir family patriarch. Knowing his lady, that kind of attitude could make for an interesting day.

Greeting the minister, Daniel was quickly told of Sarah's unexpected trip out of town, and Martha's role in today's service. Moving away, he looked to his first mate and, with a shorthand the old friends had developed over the years, pointed to Mr. Muir and indicated he was going to go down the side aisle to claim his place with the family. James nodded and, taking Marguerite's elbow, whispered in her ear as they followed him.

With a confident smile, he slipped into the pew beside Carolyn. When she looked up and saw him, her joy mirrored his. Noticing his arrival, the children greeted him with smiles and settled happily in their seats. James and Marguerite took the pew behind them and greetings were exchanged between the families. Finally taking a seat, the captain took his lady's hand in his, not caring if her father-in-law noticed or not.

Ralph noticed the family's interaction with the couple behind them and didn't miss, what he determined to be, Daniel Gregg's blatant display of affection toward his son's wife. He didn't hide his anger and, had it been possible, steam would have been seen coming from his ears. He was livid that this common 'sailor' was sitting with his family, trying to take his Bobby's place in their lives.

Marjorie could sense her husband's anger and glanced at him briefly. She'd already had more than enough of him and, ignoring his unreasonable and immature behavior, she looked down the row, past her grandchildren and daughter-in-law. Catching the seaman's eye, they exchanged a smile, aggravating her husband even more.

Sitting at the organ, Martha found herself in a unique position and smiled. She had, at her fingertips, the power to irritate Ralph Muir by blasting him right out of his seat or, at the very least, making him regret his actions of the night before. Looking over the music, she was pleased to see every hymn could be played in a way that would fill the church with sound at every pitch level, allowing the organ to produce the full-bodied music the arrangements called for. She could play with gusto, and shake the building, without anyone thinking anything of it. If Mrs. Muir's father-in-law didn't have a headache now, he would . . . long before the service was over.

Receiving a nod from Reverend Farley, and saying a brief prayer asking forgiveness for the pleasure she would take from playing today, Martha's fingers met the organ keys. Immediately, the church was filled with beautiful music in praise of the Lord.