Chapter 7
Baltimore, Maryland - March 1874
Gabrielle sorted through the mail at her desk, her eyes scanning the envelopes until they landed on the one she'd been anticipating. With a practiced flick of her wrist, she tore it open, her gaze flitting towards Violette across the room. Her sister sat diligently working on embroidery, an activity that reeked of forced enthusiasm. The pestering about her lost brother had subsided, replaced by a studied focus on studies and music – a transparent attempt to appease Gabrielle. Violette hated needlepoint. Yet, there she was, diligently stitching away, a silent plea for cooperation.
Gabrielle understood. The yearning for family, for a connection to an unknown past, resonated within her own heart. If she had undiscovered kin, wouldn't she fight just as fiercely to find them? A silent vow formed in her mind. She would help Violette find her brother but on her terms. There would be no impulsive cross-country road trips.
Weeks ago, Gabrielle had discreetly contacted a private investigator. An old address and a name – that's all they had to go on. A smile tugged at her lips as she unfolded the investigator's report, skimming the opening pleasantries. Her smile widened as she reached the crucial part.
"This might pique your interest," Gabrielle announced, casually crossing the room and handing the letter to Violette.
Violette's brow furrowed as she examined the addressed envelope. "Mr. Jackson Logan? I don't recall…"
"Just read it," Gabrielle urged, taking a seat opposite her sister.
Violette began reading aloud, her voice betraying a flicker of hope. "Miss Laurent, I thank you for your consideration in this matter. As always, our endeavors are maintained in the strictest confidence…"
"Skip to the middle of the page," Gabrielle interjected gently.
Violette skimmed the letter quickly. "I am pleased to report that I've located the man in question," she read aloud, her voice wavering. "He's the Sheriff of a town called Butte Meadows in the Nebraska Territory. Unfortunately, further investigation into his character or past would've compromised our anonymity. However, if you wish to delve deeper, I can certainly continue."
Gabrielle observed the bewilderment cloud Violette's features. Patiently, she waited as her sister reread the letter in silence.
"I don't get it," Violette finally blurted, her voice laced with confusion.
"I hired a private investigator to find your brother," Gabrielle revealed.
Violette's reaction was explosive. With a shriek, she flung herself into Gabrielle's arms, tears welling up in her eyes. "You did what?" she cried, clinging to her sister.
"Vee, please," Gabrielle cautioned gently, "let's manage your expectations. We need to have a serious conversation before we embark on this journey."
Violette's smile, though slightly subdued, remained radiant. "Are you serious? We're actually going to meet him?"
A small smile played on Gabrielle's lips. "Yes," she confirmed.
"You're truly the best sister in the whole world!" Violette exclaimed, squeezing Gabrielle tightly.
"But there are some ground rules," Gabrielle interjected.
"Anything!" Violette readily agreed.
"First and foremost, you will not be alone with this man, not until I'm satisfied he poses no threat."
"Threat? Why would he be a threat?" Confusion flickered across Violette's face.
"We know absolutely nothing about him," Gabrielle explained logically. "He could be anything - a drunk, a gambler, a con artist, even a murderer. Public places only, until I get a better sense of his character."
Violette nodded readily. "Of course, that makes sense."
"And you need to be mentally prepared for the possibility that he might not want a relationship with you," Gabrielle continued, taking Violette's hands. "I need you to be strong if he chooses not to welcome you into his life."
Violette's brow furrowed as this possibility settled in. "I hadn't considered that," she admitted with a frown.
"Think about it carefully, dear sister," Gabrielle advised, planting a kiss on her cheek. "I'll have Horace book train tickets this week, so start packing. We have to be back here before the board meeting, but that gives us a good month. We should have plenty of time."
Violette's joy rekindled. "Thank you!" She exclaimed, jumping up and engulfing Gabrielle in another tight hug. "Thank you, thank you, thank you!"