The Wolf and The Eagle
12 April 1774
With Amelia's teaching certification, she was free to teach young children in any setting and seized every chance ambitiously. She had always been a quiet humble girl but after seeing her true potential, she pushed forward. Every week, Godfrey would head to Boston with her as she tracked down all leads for teaching positions in the city's advertisements. Taking her best dresses, she was prepared for any interviews and had Catherine coach her on answering questions before leaving. Most of the time, positions were given to those with experience but she came close on several instances and that was enough to continue. Her father was impressed with her sudden gumption but it was a bittersweet reminder that his children were ready to build their own lives.
Catherine gushed proudly every time her daughter left, hoping for the best like any dutiful mother. This, in turn, meant that Elizabeth and Martha would pick up Amelia's chores but their quarrelsome chatter irritated Caroline often. She didn't understand why the two couldn't put their conflicting personalities aside and just do as their mother asked. It was for the good of the family, not whether one was cooking faster or churned the best butter. Amelia kept the two girls in check as the peacemaker of the group but Caroline resorted to separating the two in different areas just to keep everything calm. She didn't have Amelia's steady compromising hand with the feisty duo after years of working alongside her father.
Alice and Samuel were her little stars of hope as they happily listened to her rules and worked together. They managed to clean their pots and pans faster than Martha could as they chatted together rather than against each other. They created games out of how many circles it took to clean an item or what color buttons were the most common in their mother's sewing bag- just like she and Amelia had years ago.
"Carrie, she stuck my braid in the doorway!"
Her thoughts were interrupted by Martha's angry exclamation as her brown braids were wedged between the front door and the hinges. Caroline assumed that while she wasn't watching, a peeved Elizabeth had quietly snuck the braids in the door.
Caroline looked to the wooden ceiling of the main room in the hope of sanctuary against the squabbling. When seconds passed and her sisters began to argue, she set aside the knife she'd been cutting potatoes with and placed a white cloth over the potato wedges. She couldn't let flies land to contaminate their dinner and turned around to head outside to settle the matter. Elizabeth was already pointing to the trapped braids with an impish smile while Martha was starting to resemble a fresh tomato.
"Elizabeth, behave yourself!" Caroline ordered swiftly to end their sudden feud over whatever nonsense had incensed them. The younger girl stopped her pointing with a frown as the eldest Burnett opened the door fully to release Martha's two braids. The brunette quickly pulled the braids into her hands to check them and make sure her annoyance of a little sister hadn't ruined the strands. Caroline shook her head with disappointment to their childish behavior and stated firmly, "Both of you know better than this."
Caroline shot them one last look that mimicked their mother's to quiet them and returned inside the home to continue her task. Elizabeth crossed her arms since she only wanted to teach Martha a lesson and avoid earning a lecture. The brunette knew what to say to light her short temper and her ammunition grew stronger with time.
Martha leaned down to pick up a skirt she'd been sewing off the grass to throw into a wicker basket, glaring at the smaller redhead to declare openly, "If it wasn't for Carrie being here, I'd be in charge of you and work you into exhaustion."
"As if I'd listen" Elizabeth scoffed to the underlying threat because obeying Martha was not on the top list of priorities. She missed having Amelia since Martha shared the chores with her but with her inevitable departure, Catherine wanted to share that leftover time with her. With Caroline in charge, Alice and Sam teamed up which left her with Martha- a choice she absolutely abhorred.
"You have to, I'm older" Martha shot back snippily to the fact that the pecking order put her above Elizabeth. She wasn't keen on rebellion from her smaller siblings but the little redhead put up quite the defiance against her. The last thing she wanted was for her to bring embarrassment to their family with her defiant nature and pointed out sharply, "Once Caroline is married, I will be running this house with mother and father. Your behavior will not be acceptable then."
Elizabeth smirked to her sister's authoritative display because for all of her talk, a boy's attention would be her downfall. She'd found enough romance novels hidden in her trunk to know that and scoffed matter-of-factly, "With your daydreaming, you'll marry the first boy that sets up a homestead here and I'll be free of you."
"Better that I marry with prospect and remain a lady than a foul mouthed wash maid with a filthy hog farmer for a husband" Martha hissed with insult to paint a clear picture of where she imagined Elizabeth's future. Behaving like a proper lady would get you far but her sister was ruining any chance of appearing like one with her loose mouth and impudent behavior. She couldn't understand why she stuck so vehemently to that and smirked, "And that is the best case scenario."
"Oi, you take that back!" Elizabeth exclaimed to the horrid idea of being married and sitting on her butt all day to wash clothes. Nobody would be chaining her down to keep house and play a dutiful wife for decades. Martha merely smirked cockily as she resumed her sewing and Elizabeth fought the urge to knock the skirt out of her hand.
It was at this point that Caroline wanted to shoot a pistol into the air to demand attention. Instead, she banged two pans together to call order and the two girls stopped at the sudden loud noise. Amelia tended to be calm and collected but Caroline didn't have patience for dillydallying. She'd promised their mother that the tasks would be done when she returned from washing clothes at the river and would make true on it.
Placing her hands on her hips, she marched straight towards the two like their mother often did and stated with deathly calm, "If you two think I'm going to let you quarrel like spoiled hens while mother is out, you're sorely mistaken. You have chores to do and I expect them to be finished unless you want our parents to know Alice and Samuel do a far better job at it. You are sisters by blood, stop bickering and act like it."
Martha pointed to Elizabeth to begin the blame game but Caroline sent her a stern glare and remarked frankly, "Martha, if you took the time to make the bedroom appear as neatly as you make yourself, we wouldn't be here. Eliza, you're sulking and grumbling won't make things run any faster if you don't work at it. I love you both but right now, behave yourselves."
Both girls kept quiet as they returned to their chores and Caroline headed to the small pantry at the rear of the house to begin cleaning the cooking equipment. Overseeing a household was not easy work and when arguments occurred, she needed to end them quickly to maintain order. As a little girl, she'd been part of a united front with her sisters where they covered for each other and playfulness was the ambience between them. Now that she was officially a grown lady, she was part of the adult crowd that had to keep that strict hand that she'd previously hidden from. With Amelia leaving soon, her mother would be relying on her to maintain the peace and Caroline . . . wasn't fond of it.
I hate being a grown up, she thought despondently.
She rested her elbows on the wooden shelves in the pantry as she leaned against them for a moment of contemplation. The dynamics of her family was shifting and she hoped it would be a smooth transition but bumps were starting to appear in the road. The colder temperature of the small room felt wonderful on her back as her father failed to insulate the cracks between wood panels to keep stored goods fresh. With the attic preserving meat and fresh produce, the pantry was perfect for jams, pickled foods, and anything breakable to make sure nothing was lost in the wintertime.
A pitter patter of footsteps alerted her to slip back into work mode and she brushed back stray strands of hair. Alice popped in with soot covering her face and hands, a stark difference from the clean cut girl she'd seen an hour prior. Caroline's eyes widened to her sudden appearance and she exclaimed, "What have you been doing? The floor in the kitchen couldn't have been that dirty."
"No, Sam and I started to clean the chimney" she replied toothily as Caroline leaned down to wipe Alice's round rosy face with her apron. The blue dress carried patches of soot but Caroline would clean it since it happened on her watch. Alice smiled over her sister's wiping to pipe up cheerfully, "It was dirty with no fire so we decided to do it ourselves so mama has a spotless kitchen. We finished our chores so we wanted to help more. Was that all right, Carrie?"
"Only when it has no fire whatsoever" she reminded to prevent any accidents from occurring on her watch. Martha could take care of herself around the house so only three were left that required her vigilance. Caroline smiled at her little sister as they saved her from a headache and thanked her kindly, "You two have such good teamwork, I'm very proud of you."
Squeezing her little sister in a quick embrace, she encouraged warmly, "Pass that along to Sam."
Alice nodded happily at performing a good job and darted out of the pantry to tell Samuel all about it. Caroline grabbed the gray dishrag from the shelf to start cleaning the large iron pot her mother would use for dinner. The silence and muffled giggles that filled the Burnett home told her everything had returned to normal again.
Catherine returned to a peaceful home and although she'd been surprised at the state of Alice's dress, she didn't chastise the children. The clean fireplace was a delight for the mother of six but when the fire was lit to begin dinner, she knew the walls would be dark again by the end of the night. Still, it was a sweet gesture from them. While everyone chatted inside with Godfrey about his day at the mill, Caroline sneaked out with the excuse of fetching water.
Heading behind the house where their well was located, she filled the bucket to make true on her word. However, she had an ulterior motive for leaving her home as well. When she heard the soft tweet of a bird, a smile lit her face and she looked up to find Ratonhnhaké:ton hidden within the tree line. He raised his right hand modestly in greeting before lowering his fingers and Caroline knew right away that he was nervous.
She abandoned the bucket to join his side in quiet footsteps and he bit his lower lip before murmuring softly, "Are you sure this will go well?"
After weeks of fiddling around, they had decided to reveal their affection to her parents. They had to tread very carefully by saying they decided to court now rather than the truth that they had started in previous months. Otherwise, her parents would have a thing or two to say about their decision making skills and question their honesty.
Caroline remained optimistic about their chances and reassured, "We won't know unless we try. You've been a part of their lives for four years so they wouldn't think ill of you for this. I care for you so I will be by your side every step of the way."
He revealed a small bouquet of daisies and golden buttercups from behind his back, handing it to her. When their fingers touched, his were cold against hers which told her that his calm façade was a mask. Her right hand wrapped around the bouquet while the left squeezed his shoulder to offer support.
He cleared his throat to settle the nerves flowing through him and smiled faintly, "I picked these for you. Prudence says these are delightful for a table arrangement so I hope you like them."
She accepted them gladly with fond smile as she held them to her nose to inhale the sweet aroma. He always picked the most beautiful flowers, even when he'd brought them to her family as a gift for their dining invitations. His sentiments were always appreciated and it was that simple kindness that led her to love him. Her forehead touched his to convey her own affection and she whispered softly, "They're beautiful, thank you. Any gift from you will be treasured so never worry. Actually, I'm quite sure Alice will want to press these flowers into her book."
Her free hand cupped his cheek as she leaned over to kiss his lips to add one last token. Under normal circumstances, he was calm to the surrounding environment and exposure to the outdoors. Whenever he was near Caroline and her family's property, that calmness was shot out of the water and he suggested hastily, "We should stop. If your father catches us, I will be the next scarecrow on Warren's crops and I have a preference for living."
"Only because you asked" she chuckled softly to grant him that relief as she cupped his face and doted, "You are very dear to me."
"As any loyal wolf" he replied earnestly to her fond nickname of him, tracing his thumbs over her freckled cheeks. She was willing to stand by his side with going public with their affection and he couldn't be prouder to peer into her blue eyes to say, "My Caroline. A smile from you is worth the hour long hike to collect flowers and I count myself very lucky for having you in my life."
She blushed as the soft timbre of his voice tickled her heart and admitted quietly, "I'm very glad you're here after a long day of work."
"There is nothing you can't handle" he complimented to boost her spirit and she squeezed his left arm fondly for the encouragement. Outside of her family, he was her rock and it allowed her to purge all of her worries without fear for retribution.
She offered a smile to show the same support as she ushered him forward towards her home, "And you will do just fine with this, it's just another hurdle in our path."
There was slight resistance on the first steps and Caroline tugged him gently by the arm with an amused smile. His lips thinned with reluctance since her father was not a man to upset and the same could be said for her mother. He looked to the sky for one last prayer of hope to survive what would come next while Caroline walked forward with confidence. He wished he could have that but society often made him walk on thin ice and think twice before speaking.
She picked up the bucket of water along the way and smiled broadly, "Turn that frown upside down, my dear. They love you just the same so walk in with your head held high."
"Easier said than done" Ratonhnhaké:ton remarked uncertainly and squeezed her hand one last time before releasing it.
Opening the wooden door to the lean-to that connected to the main house, she walked through with one last glance in his direction and he followed after with a worried sigh. Why did it feel like he was walking into a bear's den? Locking the door behind him, the two walked past the pantry and the bedrooms of the house towards the main room where laughter could be heard. He took that as a good omen as the small hallway opened to reveal the large main room of the Burnett household.
Catherine was busy at the fireplace as she kept an eye on cornmeal biscuits that had been placed in an iron home oven. Every few minutes, she adjusted the partially opened metal door to control the heat in the box as the fire warmed the biscuits to cook. Godfrey was enjoying a relaxing smoke on his pipe as he read the newest Boston News-Letter edition that had been brought by the wagons arriving from the city store. Well, it was more of deciphering the familiar words since he wasn't literate like his wife but she tried her best to teach when he had the time- which wasn't very often, to be honest.
"Connor!" Samuel, as always, was the first to spot his favorite friend in Davenport and jumped up from his seat at the window closest to the front door.
Ratonhnhaké:ton smiled to his happy grin as the young boy bounded up to them and held out his hand for a handshake. Even though he was nine, he had to begin assimilating the behavior of a young gentleman.
"Good to see you, Samuel, as always" the young man greeted his little friend and Samuel puffed his chest with pride. He shook Samuel's hand with a respectful nod and the young boy grinned at both he and Caroline.
His sister ruffled his red hair gently to remind him he was still her little brother in her eyes and ushered him back to the window. Samuel pouted since he wanted to spend time with his friend but she spoke quietly, "We need to talk to mama and papa first. Then, you two can talk all you want for the rest of the evening."
Understanding, he returned to his seat and waved his hands to ward off Alice and Elizabeth from repeating the same. Ratonhnhaké:ton smiled nervously as they approached her parents at the dining table just as Catherine pronounced a word for her husband. The two caught the youngsters approach and while Godfrey welcomed Ratonhnhaké:ton with a merry smile, Catherine aimed a knowing look at her daughter. Caroline couldn't help but wince slightly as the fire's glow illuminated her mother's stern expression.
"Father, I invited Connor here because we wanted to speak to you on a matter very important to us" Caroline spoke politely to get off on the right foot since she wanted her parents to accept her choice. Godfrey motioned for the young man to sit down, reminding him that he was at home but Ratonhnhaké:ton stood beside his partner rather than taking it. She smiled to that silent gesture of commitment and began with a calm voice, "I want you both to know that I love you very much but as I grow older, I will have to begin making my own decisions. I believe you've raised me well enough to make the right choices and to think with a clear and logical mind."
"Now I'm boggled" Godfrey told Catherine as his wife patted his hand with a kind smile.
She had to admit her daughter had gumption by performing courting etiquette herself since it usually fell to the man. It was good to see that she hadn't raised tame children and her little ones could stand their ground as they grew into adulthood. Ratonhnhaké:ton was not like her Godfrey when it came to demanding attention and displaying confidence but his quiet politeness and kind actions was a strength in itself. Remembering how her husband had been decades ago when he asked to court her in front of all of her family, Catherine smiled encouragingly to Ratonhnhaké:ton.
It's either now or never, he thought nervously and took the risky plunge.
"First, allow me to say that I respect both of you very highly and thank you for opening your home to me when others wouldn't have" Ratonhnhaké:ton spoke quietly to show that he was not taking advantage of their hospitality to run off with their daughter. Davenport had brought him many opportunities but he never expected to find his other half among those he helped- that was just a lucky coincidence. Her family treated him as if he were one of their own without ever asking anything in return and he thanked them wholeheartedly, "I've appreciated your kindness since the day you welcomed me into your home. The love shown to each other has given me a sense of family I haven't felt since leaving my village and there aren't enough words to describe my gratitude."
Hesitating for a moment, he admitted quietly, "I lost the only family I ever knew at a very young age, in a painful way, and never expected to find the same love elsewhere. In all honesty, you've become my family now and I would never do anything to damage that trust."
Godfrey furrowed his brow in thought to the sudden outpour of emotion from the quiet native and asked with concern, "Are you trying to tell us you're moving, Connor?"
The young man shook his head quickly before the Burnetts assumed a different reason for his visit. His manner of speaking was broad at times so he needed to borrow the poise he exuded within the assassin's order that shaped him to be a leader. Squaring his shoulders, he straightened his posture and replied earnestly in a clear voice, "No, not at all. I wanted to speak to both of you today because I am asking for permission to court Caroline with the potential of marrying her in the future."
The children fell into silence since they all knew the word married and to hear it from their friend towards their sister was a surprise. Only Elizabeth's lips broke into a grin from the end of the house since she knew there was something there! Nobody believed her but she was right all along!
Their parents eyebrows rose in unison to the declaration and he shifted his gaze between both as he continued, "I know my request isn't ideal considering the opinions of society towards me but I truly respect your daughter and I will treat her right. Growing alongside each other, our loyal friendship blossomed into affection and we want to continue that path together. Unfortunately, I don't know very much about Scottish customs but Caroline insisted this was customary. I do this not only for her but because we both respect you and seek your approval."
Caroline noticed him wringing his hands out of her peripheral vision and squeezed his forearm to soothe, "You can do this- it's all right."
Godfrey caught the liberty his daughter was taking in regards to personal boundaries. His daughters would always remain little children in his eyes and he sought the best for them. Now, there was a young man that wanted to care and possibly share a life with one of them. Was he ready for that?
Catherine smiled forlornly and whispered privately in reminder, "They're destined to move out of our home one day just like we did from ours."
"He's my dearest friend and saved my life more than once so I know he has bravery like father's" Caroline chuckled fondly as she took over to show that she was committed to him just as much as he was. Her parents had been good role models for her, despite their meager beginnings, and she pointed out, "Mama taught me that a strong union requires understanding, loyalty, and respect. Father told me to choose a man that is respectful, works hard, and is kind to me, which is exactly what I've found. Please, all we ask for is a chance."
Catherine nodded to her daughter in acknowledgement as she finally unveiled what she'd wanted to hear weeks ago. Caroline looked to her with hope that she'd approve and her mother preened as she placed her hands on her hips, "That's all I ever wanted to hear from you instead of running away to hide it. Burnetts do not hide in shame- they face whatever comes at them. It wasn't so hard to utter the words, now was it?"
"The fact that conflicts between settlers and natives only keeps increasing isn't exactly helping our case" Caroline answered nervously because disappointing her parents was one of her fears but she loved Ratonhnhaké:ton. She looked to her handsome hero since he always did his best to keep her safe and happy. What more could her parents want from a suitor? Their eyes met and his warm gaze settled the nerves in her stomach as she finished, "You already know who Connor is and I don't see anyone else rivaling what he means to me. I've seen the workers at the mill and men in Boston but none appeal to me in the slightest. If anything, it makes me want to stay tied to this home and be a spinster."
"I will adhere to any rules you have to prove my commitment" he vowed to make it clear that he could be the type of man they sought for Caroline. Colonial customs flew out the window as he spoke from the heart, "I will earn your respect again if my request has caused it to decrease because I have the utmost for you. She is the one I want in my life and I will fight for that honor if I must against outsiders."
Catherine smiled to herself with pride as he spoke not only for their approval but his devotion to Caroline. Men usually put forth their finances and what they could offer a family in exchange for a woman's hand but Ratonhnhaké:ton set a precedence with asking for their respect first. She squeezed her husband's shoulders to allow the young man to finish as Ratonhnhaké:ton spoke with determination, "If you need me to work at the mill to show my abilities, I will do so. I'm no stranger to manual labor and I will do whatever you ask."
He paused for a moment and added in loosely, "I was actually waiting to speak on this after Amelia's leave since I know it is your main focus right now. . ."
Both the Burnetts and Caroline were curious to what he meant since he was a quiet one when it came to plans. Ratonhnhaké:ton smiled modestly at the entire family before turning to Godfrey and admitting, "I am preparing to open my trading company, Davenport's Prospect, later this year since our community is isolated and gradually growing. I wanted to speak with you, Mr. Galloway, Mr. Fortier, and Mr. O'Donnell for a business proposition though. I will be investing in the production of one cargo ship since Davenport is still young for trade and I plan to use that and the Aquila for import/exporting throughout the northeast colonies. I can explain more in private later on."
Godfrey grinned to the young man before him and complimented, "For one so young, you have the smarts and ambition of a businessman. I'm open for negotiating for expansion of my goods. . .never thought I'd say that."
Caroline chuckled softly since she never expected to see him branching out into business this early and mused, "You are full of surprises."
"In regards to my Carrie, there's one question I want answered" Godfrey put forth with a serious tone this time and Ratonhnhaké:ton nodded firmly in attention. The Scotsman pointed to their open front door and questioned curiously, "Did you give her a golden horse that's been running wild around these parts?"
"Yes, yes, I did" the young man replied in regards to Sophia and hoped he hadn't overstepped his bounds with Godfrey. The older man, however, was more relieved than anything and his shoulders relaxed under Catherine's hands.
"Good, I was starting to worry that Eliza took it" Godfrey sighed aloud after seeing the steed feed on grass and hightail it back to his younger daughter.
He stood up from the chair to clasp a hand on Ratonhnhaké:ton's shoulder and smiled warmly to speak in the fatherly tone he used for his children, "I know times are growing difficult and nobody knows how politics will play out in the end. This is what I do know, however. As a young man, you risked your life to save my friend without knowing us and provided land to build our dreams. You've been part of this family since the day I opened the door to this house and will continue to be, regardless of what happens. I don't care if you're white, brown, green, or blue with white stripes. You're a good lad, Connor, and I trust you with my Carrie because you're already a son in my eyes."
He smiled with disbelief to the heartfelt admission and hesitated for verification, "Does this mean . . .?"
"I wouldn't entrust her life to anyone else" he replied sincerely as the young man he'd met years ago managed to sweep his oldest off her feet. He held out his hand for a handshake and Ratonhnhaké:ton accepted it with a sigh of relief as a huge weight was lifted off his shoulders. Catherine laid her hands over both of theirs to convey her own acceptance and he beamed happily for their acceptance. Godfrey released him to pull out one of the chairs and invited with a warm laugh, "Sit down and grab a bite to eat."
Ratonhnhaké:ton was flooded by immense relief and joy that he could hardly move at all. Caroline's hands gently ushered him by the shoulders and he snapped out of the daze. He offered her a faint smile as the moment felt surreal but she smiled encouragingly to calm him, "Relax, I'll get you something to eat."
With a fond squeeze to his right shoulder, she left to help her mother prepare the food. Catherine motioned for Amelia to watch over the biscuits and stew while she headed for the pantry to fetch their dinnerware.
"It's about time" Amelia chuckled with mirth as she passed her older sister and Caroline smiled broadly to their ongoing luck. Amelia had been her biggest supporter in admitting her feelings to Ratonhnhaké:ton. The two young women giggled together to the new romance flourishing but their mother put an end to it by clearing her throat loudly.
"Sorry, mother," was the unison apology.
The quiet tension that had fallen over the house broke as everyone returned to their tasks but the young children were ecstatic. Immediately, they forgot that they normally asked their father to read them the city newsletter but Godfrey let them be. Alice's heels clacked against the floorboards as she scampered over to her eldest sister and grabbed the back of Caroline's green skirt.
"Carrie, does this mean you'll marry Connor?" Alice asked worriedly because she liked having the family together and wasn't keen on having two sisters leave. One was already enough in her mind! The redhead turned around as the brunette clung to her skirt and frowned to suggest hastily, "I don't want you to leave too. He can live here so we can all be together."
"I'd be getting a brother if she does! A brother with a ship!" Samuel exclaimed cheerfully as the little ones began to make future plans while Caroline was taking it one step at a time. The thought of his oldest friend marrying Caroline told him that they'd most than likely stay in Davenport and he could visit them all the time. He'd finally have the best brother he could ever receive!
Caroline ruffled his hair since she wasn't thinking that far ahead and Elizabeth grinned impishly, "It's like one of those romance novels Martha hides. A frontier girl and a native- forbidden love."
"I don't think it's forbidden nor should it be" Caroline chuckled to her dramatization since her partner was a handsome intelligent man. He'd already surprised her tonight with his plans for a future business. His quiet voice could send goosebumps down her arms with a mere utterance of her name. A single glance left her with butterflies in her stomach and a sudden rush of heat to her face. He was the only one who could cause such involuntary physical responses within her.
She grabbed Alice's hands to gently coax her to release her skirt and reassured her, "I'm not leaving home anytime soon, Alice. You'll be stuck with me for quite a while so don't worry your little heart."
Catherine told her youngest girls to help Martha in the pantry and sent Samuel to mingle with the boys. As the girls went to the rear of the house, Catherine grasped Caroline's forearm for a private conversation in the empty and dimly lit hallway.
Caroline was quick to offer an apologetic look and admitted, "Mother, I really am sorry that it took so long for us to admit this. I thought adulthood would be easier to handle than childhood but it only brings me confusion- this is all so new to me. I have rampant thoughts all the time and I question myself at every turn because I don't know the answers."
Her mother said nothing as she listened to her words and Caroline furrowed her eyebrows with uncertainty as she sighed, "It is why I ask questions and I know that they may sound stupid or indecent at times but it is only because I need to know. Blame my curiosity. I make my decisions on facts, just like you taught me to. I would never seek to disappoint you but I struggle in finding a foothold in all of this and Connor . . . he's my rock throughout all of my fretting."
She cupped Caroline's face in her hands and appreciated her openness. Her own youth had left her with awkwardness and fear to the unknown, especially with a strict religious mother. Kissing her forehead in a private display of affection, Catherine chuckled softly, "My dear child, you never need to fear asking me questions in private. I do want you to come to me first before deciding impulsively but you've yet to worry me- though you came close. I am here to guide you, otherwise, why would I call myself a mother?"
Those words alleviated Caroline's worries at knowing she wasn't alone and her mother smiled kindly, "I am happy for you but as your mother, I want any updates to come to me immediately. It doesn't matter whether we are in the best or worst of times, you are my child and I always have time to hear you. I won't bite, even when a situation might draw my anger. I am placing my trust in you and Connor so please come to me with any worries. Now, go help the girls while I check on supper."
Caroline watched her mother leave with a happy smile, straightening her posture and smoothing down her dress. As humble as her mother was, she was a kind and proper lady to be followed in example. Turning around, she headed towards the pantry as lanterns served to light the small room. Elizabeth handed cloth napkins to Alice and the younger girl hurried down the hallway to make the table presentable for their guest. Martha checked the pewter bowls to make sure dust hadn't settled on the metal and scrutinized the cutlery inches from her eyes under the candlelight.
Elizabeth uttered a loud sigh to hurry the process along and spotted Caroline grabbing a wooden plate for the biscuits. The younger redhead smiled broadly as the news of the night still hung in the air and preened, "I knew there was something between you two since early winter. If I was a city ragamuffin, I could be taking bets and making loads of money with my guesses."
Caroline laughed to the outrageous idea of her being a gambler and muffled the noise behind her hand. Elizabeth waved her right hand to hasten Martha since she was starving and told her eldest sister, "I'm glad you chose Connor. He's a good person to everyone and he has horses that a certain sister likes."
Martha shook her head as she refused to jump in their happy wagon and couldn't believe her sister's decision. She was supposed to set a proper example for her and pointed out crossly, "I always thought you were smart, Carrie, but this idea of courting Connor is absolutely absurd. We don't live in a society where this will be overlooked and you'd be lucky to escape a town without being tar and feathered-"
"Martha! How can you say that?" Elizabeth chastised sharply as she intervened to defy one sister and defend another. If their parents accepted him, why couldn't she? Even though she was young at thirteen, Elizabeth didn't hesitate to defend her friend.
"You've read the papers father brings about natives attacking towns and settlers don't take kindly to that" Martha continued firmly with a frown as she handed the defiant Elizabeth the bowls for their supper. She pointed to the open doorway to tell the younger to leave them and Elizabeth looked to Caroline to show Martha who she believed was the one in charge. The eldest gave her the wooden plate and told her to set the table since she could handle herself. The smaller girl was reluctant because she was more than happy to bite into Martha but upsetting their mother was not worth it.
Once Elizabeth was out of earshot, Martha narrowed her eyes to point out frostily, "Have your fun courting but when it comes time to marry, there won't be a church in any town that will see you legally as man and wife. Why couldn't you find a decent Boston man instead? There are plenty of Scottish men that wouldn't endanger your life and would offer a good home but you choose to act carelessly-"
"My mind is perfectly sound" Caroline interrupted sharply since she didn't want the type of life Martha dreamed of. Her happiness always included Ratonhnhaké:ton since they met and she had no inclination of looking elsewhere, regardless of marriage validity. His simple way of living was similar to hers and he treated her as an equal rather than inferiorly. She would defend him against anyone that dared to mar his name and stated, "I am quite capable of making my own decisions and you know very well that Connor isn't a random man I just met. He has treated you with nothing but kindness but you refuse to come down off your high horse. I'm not afraid to face the world for my beliefs but I didn't think you'd be joining them in those ill thoughts."
Caroline grabbed nine tin cups from one of the shelves to drop them into a makeshift basket from her apron. Holding the corners of her apron, she left the pantry without another word to start her supper with a cheerful start.
I expected to face conflict with outsiders but not from my own sister, she thought with hurt and disbelief but locked it at the back of her mind for now.
The warmth from the fireplace that exuded into the main room removed the tension in her body after that confrontation. A harmony of voices echoed through the room as supper livened everyone to each other's company and she approached the dining table with a smile to join that symphony.
Her father was trying to coax Ratonhnhaké:ton to try an ale for supper, "Yer a man now, Connor, an ale won't hurt anyone."
"I don't trust myself to lose my inhibitions, especially when in the home of another" he declined politely because he had absolutely no idea what would happen if he drank. Would he hate or like it? There were many possibilities and he added in, "For all I know, I could change completely and bawl my eyes out or tear down a door . . . or completely collapse under a table. None of those are appealing to me."
"Godfrey, you leave him be" Catherine chastised to keep the poor man away from that liquid. She preferred that Caroline's suitor didn't drink and pointed out matter-of-factly, "The poor lad is barely an adult. You'll have him tripping over his feet by the time you're done."
Exclamations were heard from the girls as Elizabeth ran the table like a soup kitchen. She passed empty bowls to Amelia faster than she could fill them.
"Elizabeth, I've only two hands!" Amelia laughed aloud as she passed bowls to Alice to place on the table. Her heels could be heard clacking back and forth, stirring quiet laughter from Catherine as she pulled out fresh hot biscuits from the metal box oven. Elizabeth shot Amelia a cocky smirk but slowed down her effort to ensure supper flowed smoothly without problems.
Caroline set down a cup of tea next to Ratonhnhaké:ton's napkin to save him from the ale. Smiling at the two most important men in her life, she teased, "Are we having a battle of wills for that ale? You're charming, boban, but Connor plays the waiting game quite splendidly."
Her father waved a hand in dismissal and laughed heartily, "By the end of the night, it'll probably be in my belly. I've yet to win against him."
Ratonhnhaké:ton touched her lower back to prevent a quick leave and asked quietly, "Do you need help-"
"Your task is to sit and enjoy yourself, child" Catherine ordered with a motherly smile as she caught him trying to help. It had become a common occurrence over the years but she never allowed him to do so after all he'd done for them. Ratonhnhaké:ton smiled politely at his unofficial family and basked in their genuine care, considering himself lucky for it.
Ratonhnhaké:ton was absolutely ecstatic as he returned to the manor with a cloth wrapped helping of biscuits and gravy that Catherine sent to Achilles. He had a bowl of the rabbit stew in the other since the Burnetts remembered the elderly man's fondness for soups. The dread that he'd been feeling as he walked to the Burnett homestead had disappeared entirely as joy filled him for the first time in many years. He couldn't believe his luck that day!
Achilles snapped awake in the library when he heard the front door of the manor open and shut. Yawning into his hand, he wondered what caused his ward's lack of detectability since he'd been enjoying his afternoon nap. He heard the young man's footsteps grow closer and tapped his cane on the wooden floorboard to reveal his location.
The dark-haired assassin popped in through the doorway with a bundle of food in his arms. Ah, this must've been why he made the noise. Still, he wanted him to stay sharp on his feet and reminded, "Boy, you sounded like a drunken moose opening that door. Did you forget your training already?"
Ratonhnhaké:ton lips frowned for a split second but he'd grown accustomed to the small admonishes to better his skill. Noticing that his mentor was sitting in his favorite chair next to a small table, he explained, "Mrs. Burnett sent some biscuits and hare stew for you for supper. It is hard balancing all the dishes with only two hands."
"Well, I can never deny her food" Achilles chuckled softly since the woman prided herself in her home cooked meals. With six children running around, Catherine knew how to flavor her food extremely well and he enjoyed her care packages. Ratonhnhaké:ton smiled faintly before setting the food down on the table and opened the blue checkered cloth to reveal the fresh yet still warm biscuits.
Removing the second cloth from the wooden bowl of stew, Achilles sighed softly, "The women here spoil me as much as they do you."
Ratonhnhaké:ton didn't deny it and simply replied, "I don't mean to let them spoil me but I can't reject their gifts either and appear ungrateful. It would impolite to do so and they appear happy when I accept."
Before Achilles could ask how his day had gone, his student mentioned fetching eating utensils and took off in haste.
Well, at least his agility was excellent.
He couldn't help but notice that his student's actions were very audible as he heard drawers opening and closing. His hearing wasn't what it used to be so he could only imagine how loud it really was. When Ratonhnhaké:ton returned, Achilles took the utensils and motioned for him to sit down across from him. Grabbing a chair, Ratonhnhaké:ton turned it backwards to sit down in his customary position with his arms over the back of the chair.
Achilles' brown eyes held a hint of amusement before stating softly, "Connor, how many times have I told you that the chair must be turned in the other direction?"
"But I like sitting like this and you told me I could do it at home" the young man replied and Achilles let the matter drop at the mention of the manor being home. There were only a few select areas where the young man could be himself without roles to fill.
"How was your day at the Burnetts?" Achilles asked quietly to subtly see whether he could figure out what was causing his student's odd behavior. Normally, he could hardly hear him around the manor unless he fell out of bed during one of his naps.
Ratonhnhaké:ton's face broke into an ear-to-ear smile that surprised the older man after catching only faint smiles from the modest man. The curious lift of Achilles' brow reminded Ratonhnhaké:ton that he was not only his teacher but a friend. The elderly man had been more of a fatherly figure as he grew into adulthood since his own would rather have him killed on sight. Achilles handed him a biscuit so he wouldn't feel interrogated and Ratonhnhaké:ton took it with humbled thanks.
"I asked the Burnetts if I could court Caroline" he admitted gingerly since he'd never really spoken about courting or other things young men his age did in the colonies. He had been incredibly shy, awkward, and lost about his feelings for her but Achilles had lent a hand in helping him sort them out. He rolled the biscuit between his fingers and deliberated, "Caroline said it was time now that Amelia passed and we didn't want to disrespect her parents by hiding. It was not easy to stand there and ask their approval. . .but my training helped."
"And? Don't leave me in suspense after hearing your courting woes these past months" Achilles mused gently to coax the rest of the story after knowing the two held a mutual affection. He expected a year or so before he dared to act upon it due to his dedication to their order. Well, that and the boy was incredibly shy. He offered Ratonhnhaké:ton a kind smile because it wasn't the end of the world and assured, "Put aside the teacher-student roles, I'm here as your friend to guide you and offer advice."
"They agreed" he answered with a breathless tone since he still couldn't believe it. His lips broke out in a broad smile to his achievement as he explained, "I brought her flowers like Prudence told me to and I spoke with both of her parents with her at my side. I promised I would care for her like I always have and that I would like to marry her someday. I was extremely nervous the whole time but Mr. Burnett said it didn't matter what my origins were or how I looked as long as I loved his daughter . . . and I do."
Achilles smiled to the hopeful tone in his voice since the residents of their town were more open-minded than those of other cities and towns. He was glad to know his ward was accepted openly into the Burnett household and congratulated, "I am happy for you, Connor, since living in this land will not be easy. She is a good young woman with a sharp mind but relationships are much different than friendships- the latter which must always be maintained. Communication is always very important as well, especially when one is an assassin. Do not lose those bonds of trust."
Ratonhnhaké:ton blinked with perplexity to the advice and almost dropped the biscuit on the table. Achilles chuckled softly to his innocent expression and reminded with amusement, "Whether you can imagine it or not, I was once a young man like yourself as well with the same questions."
The young assassin was grateful as another area of advice opened up, despite he felt bashful to even ask. He tore the biscuit in two to nibble on one end and commented openly, "This 'courting' confuses me. If Caroline and I were in my village, we would already be preparing for our union and a life together. We do not require these rituals but I respect her culture since she shows the same for mine."
Achilles agreed that the colonists did indeed have different customs regarding their marriages. The confused look on his student's face was enlightening as he stepped into adulthood to wonder what would become of his life apart from his assassin role. He never intended to parent a child after losing his own but Ratonhnhaké:ton required a guiding hand in the changing world.
"Unfortunately, there is no textbook on courting but you can trust me with any questions you might have" Achilles offered with a kind smile to help him decipher all of the flustering feelings and thoughts of youth. It was better to have a child that had all the playing cards in his hands rather than head in blind into a situation. His student had lived in his home for quite a few years and although he was prone to stubborn emotional outbursts at times, he had a good heart- albeit naïve.
Looking to him, he stated softly, "I know I'm not your father and we've butted heads quite a bit already but I am here for you. I've been in your footsteps so don't fear asking me questions, no matter how embarrassing. It is not easy to live in this ever changing world, especially for us, but you're under my room and my guidance so don't be afraid to ask questions. It is better to make a mistake and fix it than not ask and cause an irreversible damage."
Ratonhnhaké:ton appreciated the open sentiment since he'd received a few whacks of the cane over the years, "Thank you. It gives me a sense of security to have different support systems, especially parental ones after enduring the loss of my mother. Quite frankly, I didn't think I'd find anything close to what I had but I've been proven wrong."
He had a family now, one that would branch through the years, and he'd hold it dear to his heart. Life had become wonderful for him.
As Caroline washed at the river next to the Burnett homestead, Ratonhnhaké:ton managed to find free time to spend with her before his next mission. He needed to see how his assassins in training were faring and gather more information about his target, Johnson, to track his movements. There were times when he wanted Caroline's input on his decisions but she wasn't a part of his order and it was best kept that way. He couldn't endanger her life for a lighter load on his shoulders.
Caroline scrubbed Alice's little apron against a rock to clean the attire free of soot and murmured softly, "All things considered, the majority of that day was excellent."
"I'd say it went extremely well with your parents and siblings accepting me" Ratonhnhaké:ton admitted cheerfully since he was treated politely the entire time by the Burnetts. Both of her parents had been surprised, true, but the end result was joy. The same went for her siblings as they followed after him for questions after supper. He still remembered Samuel promising he'd be the best little brother if he did marry Caroline.
"Most siblings, anyway" she muttered softly and he furrowed his brow because they'd all eaten together without any problems.
He had spoken with her parents and siblings throughout the night to ensure they didn't view him differently for pursuing Caroline. Curious to her words, he asked quietly, "What do you mean?"
She scrubbed the cloth harder at remembering her sister's words and pent out that frustration onto the apron. Glancing at him for a moment, she could see the concern written clearly on his face. Not wanting to hurt his feelings, she smiled tenderly, "Sometimes, I forget that everyone is entitled to their own opinions and they will vary differently from mine. This land is still very much blind and immature despite the proclamations for equality and freedom."
"It wasn't Alice or Sam, was it?" he asked tentatively since they were young and impressionable. Did Alice truly believe he'd whisk away her sister and never see them again? Had he gotten on her bad side for doing so? And she was the nicest Burnett child! Quickly, he added in, "I told her that you wouldn't leave home anytime soon to stop her worrying. I don't want to upset her at all. As for Sam, the Aquila is not the place for a child."
Caroline's openness caused a dent in his confidence after believing everything was back to normal. Was he blind?! Had he accidentally insulted someone or-
Caroline chuckled warmly to break him from his sudden paranoia and reassured, "Goodness, no! They adore you and Alice expects you to move in with us in the future. If anything, the younger generations carry the most hope for equality."
Since it wasn't the youngest children, he decided to use the process of elimination and brought out an unlikely possibility, "Amelia?"
She washed her hands clean of soap in the river and smiled at him with mirth, "Dear one, just ask me directly."
Ratonhnhaké:ton wrung his hands modestly since he wasn't used to asking unless he interrogated or needed directions. His curiosity and the settler culture he was assimilating into was slowly pushing him to be more vocal about things rather than quiet. She grasped his warm hands into hers to intertwine their fingers and offered a sympathetic squeeze. His shoulders relaxed as she coaxed him to allow her passage to his emotions and thoughts. Not many could decipher him, after all.
His gaze turned downcast since he would never speak ill of those he knew and she soothed, "You can always talk to me about anything so never shy away. My secrets are yours and yours are mine, nothing leaves this area."
Her little pep talk allowed him to pose the tricky question, "It was Martha, wasn't it?"
"Are you surprised?" she chuckled dryly as she nodded with confirmation and he shook his head with disappointment. Tucking a wisp of raven hair behind his ear, the side of her hand caressed his cheek to offer him comfort and she pointed out kindly, "It doesn't matter, you're the one who does."
A moment later, a shred of shame struck him since Martha was her sister and the two lived together under the same roof. How was she faring against her sister's opinions? He leaned over to kiss her temple to return the same care and brought her to his chest by the shoulders. She smiled fondly to his open display of affection and admitted quietly, "I only care what you think of us. My heart is yours and I won't be trading it for any man. He can be a third generation colonist from the north or the most devout Catholic and I'd still choose you every time just to hear your voice."
He knew he would have issues disguising his true origins when wandering the cities but didn't expect Martha to judge him like that. For the first time in his life, he felt awkward to be in Davenport as a Kanien'kehá:ka and asked quietly, "Is it because of how I look? Is that why she doesn't accept this?"
"Don't worry your mind, my parents accepted you and that's what matters" she reinforced with a firm voice and embraced him tightly to settle his worry. Kissing his right cheek, she pressed her forehead to his temple and promised, "They will be the ones who matter when we choose to get married. If no church allows us to do so, I will live in sin because in my heart, we would be one. I can assure you that any home of ours will have love and plenty of visits from my other four siblings, especially Sam. Quite frankly, it's a given that he'll help build a guest room in whatever little home we build."
"That is a great comfort to know" he chuckled warmly to the possibility of that happy future but it could only happen after he eliminated Lee. He was fortunate to have a home and family to return to unlike other assassins, holding her close to relish in their bond. The flow of the river downstream and the sounds of the active sawmill in the distance reminded him of the peace currently shrouding him. Meeting her gaze, his forehead touched hers as he smiled confidently, "We survived the first hurdle and it will get better. It has to."
"I admire your optimism" she chuckled at bringing a bright smile on his face because she meant every word of it. Her fingers tapped the beads in his hair gently, widening his smile to her playfulness. She parted from him to look at the clear blue sky overhead and mused with hope, "I feel this year of 1774 is just the beginning of something big . . . hopefully good."
"Seeing that Amelia has found her path and we are free to be together, it has to be" he agreed to share her positive reflections and hoped their turn of good luck would follow him in his profession. Caroline broke etiquette to kiss him square on the lips as their first dream had come true but he kept their kiss innocent. They would maintain the utmost propriety in public but once they found a truly private area, he would leave her breathless.
Ratonhnhaké:ton pointed to the soapy white apron on the flat rock and redirected her with a smile, "You should finish before your mother worries. I don't want to lead you astray from your chores."
"I will but I want your company as well before you leave" she admitted since the Aquila would depart soon with its captain behind the wheel. She cherished their time together in Davenport as their schedules varied. Her fingers traced over the necklace she'd given him, smiling as her gaze landed on the wooden wolf pendant to whisper, "Okwaho né:'e."
His smile widened at hearing his language from her lips, especially his nickname, and he replied with his own for her, "Akweks né:'e."
Her blue eyes sought his for translation since she needed a refresher course of what she'd studied. It had to be an animal but she couldn't remember. It was hard to continue learning his language when he was away but he answered her question with a fond smile, "My eagle."
A/N: Now that school and a degree is behind me, I can now restart on my poor fanfictions in limbo and take my state boards. Now that the year 1774 is in full swing in the story, it will have a faster pace of events. Characters will be leaving and new (but familiar) faces will be introduced in upcoming chapters. Thank you to my old and new readers/reviewers, I appreciate your time and feedback.
Next Time: Farewell
"Achilles told me one of you was leaving- is it Amelia?"
Her smile faltered slightly to the impending loss and answered, "Yes, she's leaving for Boston tomorrow so we've been helping her pack everything she needs. Mother is the one helping her prepare everything. She'll be a private teacher for an upper class family there that needs the position filled right away. I'm very happy for her."
"It will be normal to miss her, Caroline" he soothed gently as he caught the worried undertone in her voice as her closest relative left home. Her gaze turned downcast since Amelia's departure should be a happy occasion but melancholy bit her heart.
"Guilt laces into the mix for wishing a few days' time with her but she has a life to begin" she sighed softly with honesty she only confided in him. Luck had been on her side to grant her two close confidantes but now, one would leave indefinitely.
Ratonhnhaké:ton embraced her close to wash away the sadness and reminded, "You have to be strong, especially with your younger siblings who will undoubtedly feel the same. I will be here if you need me . . . at least for the next month, that is."
She smiled warmly to his aid as his presence set her at ease and sighed softly, "Thank you but there are some things I must be able to handle on my own."
"Not all of the time so don't fear drawing strength from me" he supplied gently to remind her that she didn't need to be in control of every situation. He understood that being the oldest carried great responsibilities but it shouldn't encompass every aspect of her being. He cupped her chin with his fingers to lock their gazes and comforted, "It isn't weakness nor should you feel ashamed of doing so. I'm more than certain your family would agree. Just as you help them, I will help you."
"I'm a flustered mess of emotions" she admitted sullenly to the roads of life they were all currently leading. Changes were coming and she hoped that they would be good rather than bad. Inhaling deeply to calm her fluttering stomach, she whispered softly, "But you're right, I do need you for this."
He couldn't help but smile to the admission and she asked with a happier tone, "Have you eaten yet? I'm sure Sam is waiting to hear your tales of the sea and you can help keep the young ones occupied while I help mother."
He chuckled softly as she jumped from one task to another, squeezing her shoulders once before letting go, "One step at a time, Caroline."
She waved her hands bashfully as she turned to head inside but within two steps, she turned around to kiss him on the lips. The softness of her lips and the light exhale of warm breath against his skin from her nose was heavenly after weeks at sea. His cheeks flushed immediately to the unexpected move and she pulled away with a wide smile, "Welcome home, Ratonhnhaké:ton."
Thank you, thank you for being patient with the lagging update for the story!