Chapter 39
Butte Meadows, Nebraska - August 1874
"Guess what I overheard?" Teresa asked, struggling with a hefty box of groceries. "Jeremiah asked Louise last night if he could court you!"
Violette's eyebrows shot up, a smile tugging at her lips. "You did?" She managed, trying to appear nonchalant.
"Because you're turning sixteen, she said it was all right." Teresa nodded.
"Birthdays used to be a big deal at my house." Violette said wistfully, shaking her head. "Every year, Gabrielle would go all out. Decorations, a house full of people, even kids I didn't know."
"Sounds like fun," Teresa remarked.
"I hated it," Violette confessed with a laugh. "Now I'd give anything for that fuss."
"She'll be back soon," Teresa assured her gently.
Violette offered a small smile and rested her box on the porch railing. Four weeks had passed with no word from Gabrielle or Buck. Despite reassurances from Kid and Louise, worry gnawed at her. With a sigh, she tapped her foot impatiently, waiting for Teresa to return.
Minutes ticked by. A frown creased Violette's brow as she set her box down. Just as she reached for the doorknob, it swung open.
"Surprise!"
Louise stood there, beaming. A magnificent cake sat proudly in the center of the table, surrounded by smiling faces.
A wave of emotion washed over Violette. Though Gabrielle and Buck's absence left a void, she allowed herself to be swept up in the joy of the moment, determined to enjoy her sixteenth birthday celebration.
The surprise washed over Violette, tears welling up in her eyes. Tears of relief, of joy, of the unexpected warmth that filled the small room. Louise had outdone herself. The cake, a glorious creation frosted a cheerful yellow, boasted sixteen lit candles.
Kid stood beside Louise, a goofy grin plastered on his face.
As Violette took it all in, Louise bustled forward. "Make a wish, birthday girl!" she urged, her voice brimming with excitement. Violette closed her eyes, a silent wish forming for Gabrielle and Buck's safe return whispered amongst the hope for a brighter year ahead. Taking a deep breath, she blew out the candles in a single puff. A cheer erupted, filling the room with warmth.
As the night wore on, they shared cake, Kid and Lou both regaling them with tales – some true, some embellished – of their youth. Despite the lingering worry for her siblings, Violette's heart was torn between conflicting emotions as she watched the celebration taking place before her. On one hand, she felt a glimmer of hope for the family she so desperately longed for. But on the other hand, she couldn't shake off the fear that this comfort was only temporary and would soon disappear like a passing storm.