Lost Love

Lost Love

Neville Merryweather sat in the chair by the window of the guest room of the house he grew up in. He had just finished reading the letter written to him by Helene Simpson Robinson, the mother of the son he never knew he had. How things would have been different if only she had told him the truth so many years ago. He had to admit, twenty years ago he wouldn't have defied his father. Neville was a weak man. He always had been and he was always afraid if he went against his father's wishes he would be stripped of all fringe benefits that came with being a Merryweather. As much as it pained him, he was grateful to Chester Robinson for raising James as his own. James would never carry the Merryweather name. It was a false family name to begin with. Neville would be the last of the Merryweathers and that was just as well. Neville reread Helene's letter.

Dear Neville,

I know this unexpected visit from our son will be a shock to you. I am sorry for the pain you are going through as you realize I kept the truth from you all these years. Believe me when I tell you that I have regretted that decision every day of my life.

Please be assured, Chester Robinson was the best father a boy could hope for. Chester loved James with all his heart and was committed to him from the beginning.

Neville, I don't know if I can ever make you understand why I kept this secret from you. What we did was a mistake. I loved you very much and I know you loved me but we were very different people. You needed a wife and mother to your children who would be by your side in the social situations that were always so important to you. I was not that woman. I was not born to that life and I'm not sure I would have been able to learn all the social graces that came naturally to you and your friends.

The announcement of your nuptials appeared in the newspaper just about the time I discovered I was in the family way. Even though I returned all your letters unopened, I was still heartbroken to learn of the marriage. Chester Robinson, a very dear friend of mine was the only person who knew of my dilemma. He offered to marry me and claim our child as his own.

Neville, I was in such a state. I wasn't sure what I was going to do. I didn't love Chester but didn't feel I had any choice. I felt I was being punished for my sinful behavior and I would have to pay the consequences.

As it turned out, Chester and I were married that very afternoon. Mama and Papa had always liked Chester and welcomed him into the family immediately. James was born 8 months later. He was a very tiny baby and everyone just assumed he had come early.

In time, I learned to love Chester. He was a kind and caring husband and adored James. As James grew older, Chester talked about telling him the truth about his parentage. I was against it from the start. Chester had been the only father James had ever known and I wanted to keep it that way for everyone's sake. I knew if James found out about you he would want to find you and my shameful secret would be revealed. Chester didn't concur but agreed to keep the secret.

Around this time a year ago, Chester fell ill. In time, he realized he was never going to get better. He had never betrayed me in all of our years together but in his deteriorating state, he told James the truth about you. I tried to convince James that it was the delirium that made Chester say those words but he didn't believe me. Your son had suspected something was amiss when he realized he looked nothing like the man he thought was his father.

After Chester's death, I begged James not to pursue the matter. He agreed but it kept eating away at him. He had a need to meet his birth father. I should have written to you to warn you but I was afraid of causing unrest in your home. I remembered you had come from Camden Corners and I assumed your sister still lived there. Again, I wasn't certain how well James would be received. I do hope you will treat him well. I can assure you he is not looking for any monetary benefits. He simply wants to meet his father. Sincerely, Helene Simpson Robinson

Neville read the letter over and over again. He knew Helene was right. She never would have been happy living in his world. It had taken him years to realize he wasn't happy living in that world himself. The best time of his life was the few months he and Helene were together when he attended school in Plattsburg.

Neville knew what he had to do. After a short rest and a filling meal, he announced he would be leaving that afternoon for home.

“I want to get this out in the open and I need to start by telling Prudence that James is my son and I want very much to be part of his life. That is if you feel the same way James.”

“Yes, Mr. Merryweather, err Neville. I would very much like to get to know you better. I don't wish to cause you or your family any distress though.”

“Prudence lives in constant distress” Millicent said quietly.

Neville glared at her but was in agreement.

“I'm not going to be dishonest with you son, Prudence will not be happy about this situation but she will have to accept it. I do think your sisters will be pleased to know they have a brother. The next train leaves in 20 minutes. I will return as soon as I can. Millicent, I hope you will keep my room open for me. I would like to spend some time with James upon my return.”

When Neville arrived home he entered the parlor where Prudence was sipping a glass of sherry. Neville was hoping the sherry would have a calming effect on her when he told her his news. Prudence accepted the news better than Neville anticipated. She excused herself to go to her room and that was when she dissolved into a heap on the floor. Prudence Wingate Merryweather was dead drunk.

Neville wasn't sure Prudence had even heard his confession. He carried her to her room and deposited her on her bed where her personal maid took over.

Melinda, the younger Merryweather daughter came bouncing in through the front door.

“Hello Papa, we thought you were on a business trip.”

“I came home sooner than expected. Is your sister with you? I have something I'd like to speak to you both about.”

“Melissa and Michael are smooching under the sycamore tree. Those two are revolting. Always kissing and hugging. I'm never going to get engaged if that is what you have to do.”

Neville laughed. “I think you will change your mind about that one of these days.”

Melissa walked in the door. “Hello Father, what's wrong? You look so serious.”

“I have something to tell you both, it's good news but it will be a surprise to you. I hope you think it's a good surprise because I'd like you to be happy about it.”

The girls listened intently as Neville explained the situation and how they had a brother they didn't know about all these years. Melissa thought it was the most romantic story she had ever heard. She cried for her father and his lost love. Melinda didn't quite understand how her father had a baby with another lady but she was happy she now had a big brother. They wanted to pack that very minute and leave for Camden Corners on the next train.

Neville told the maid to inform Mrs. Merryweather that the three of them were leaving to visit his sister for a few days. In Prudence's current state, he didn't think she would object.

Melissa asked if Michael could go along with them. After all, he would be part of the family soon. Neville agreed and the foursome boarded the train two hours later.

James was amazed that his father had been to Greensboro and back and brought his sisters with him. They were such pretty girls. It was difficult for him to keep his emotions under control. How nice it would have been to have watched these two young girls grow up. He and Michael Cassidy were instant friends. The girls both hugged him and welcomed them into their family. Millicent and Neville stood with their arms around each other watching the young people become acquainted.

“How did Prudence take the news?” Millicent whispered.

“I'm not really sure she even knows. My high society wife was as drunk as a skunk when I told her about James.”

“Oh my, Prudence always manages to surprise me.” laughed Millicent.

The sun was beginning to set as Neville relaxed in the parlor watching his three children talking and laughing as though they had known each other all their lives. He still was in a disbelief that this fine young man was his son. He wouldn't trade his daughters for anything in the world but he had longed for a son to complete the family. Prudence wouldn't hear of it. She cursed him both times she found herself in the family way and refused to even consider having another child. If it meant they would never again share a bed, so be it.

Addie had gone all out with the evening meal. She was thrilled to have two hungry young men to cook for. Millicent and her nieces helped set the table. Millicent had never learned to set a table or do any of the mundane chores before. She found she was enjoying giving a helping hand and was even known to wash a dish or two.

When the men were called to the table, James walked into the dining room smiling broadly, he picked up his wine glass.

“I'd like to make a toast to Aunt Millie for her hospitality and arranging for me to meet my family.”

The group stared at James with their mouths open wide when he referred to his aunt as Millie. They then glanced in Millicent's direction.

“Thank you James dear. No one has ever called me Millie before. I like it. It sounds so much friendlier than Millicent. Don't you think Addie? Yes, I would like to be called Millie from now on.”

From that moment on Millicent Merryweather Stout was known simply as Millie Stout. Her new name suited her well because she was no longer the rich lady who lived in a mansion on a hill. She was everyone's friend and neighbor.

“Oh Aunt Millie” said Melinda as the two were saying goodnight. “I don't want this day to ever end. It has been so wonderful meeting our brother. Father says we have to leave tomorrow morning. I wish we could just move to Camden Corners but mother would never leave all her snooty friends.”

“I know dear but you have a life in Greensboro too. I know you love Michael's family. They would miss you both if you moved out of town. I'm hoping James will stay on for a while and it is a short train ride from Greensboro.”

The next morning the visitors returned to Greensboro with a promise of a return the following weekend. They would bring their skis and take advantage of the late winter snowfall in the hills of Camden Corners.

“Are you sure Aunt Millie? You have been so kind to me I don't want to burden you and Addie.”

“Don't be silly my boy. It has been a pleasure having a young person around this old house. You are welcome to stay as long as you wish. Now, you and Cody go off and meet April and her friend and have a good time.”

Cody Hill was waiting for James. Word had gotten around town that there was a new fellow in town, like any newcomer he wouldn't be a stranger for long.

Back in Albany, Helene Robinson was holding the telegram that arrived an hour ago. James was going to be staying in Camden Corners for a while. He wanted to get to know his new family better. Helene was happy he hadn't been rejected but suddenly felt very alone and lonely.

The Best of Friends

 

The Best of Friends

Luigi Rossi woke up with a start. The sun was shining brightly through the window of the room he'd slept in when he was growing up and living with his sister and her family. He didn't remember when he'd had a more restful night. Probably when I was living here, he thought to himself. He could hear muffled voices coming from the kitchen. He splashed water on his face, brushed his teeth and walked down the hallway stopping at the doorway.

He looked around the room. There was Eddie. He was the spitting image of his father in looks and actions. He was a very serious young man and extremely kind and caring. Tony was the curious one. He had taken to the camera Luigi had given to him when he first began working at Weston Camera Company. Tony was a natural photographer even at his very young age. His photographs helped catch a con artist last winter. Luigi loved telling that story to his coworkers. Giorgio followed Tony every where he went. He was the chatterbox of the family. The girls, Daniella and Maria looked like his sister Rosa with their long dark hair and sparkling blue eyes. What beauties they were already.

His brother, Nick was sitting at the table with his new bride, Lucinda and their daughter Cassandra. Luigi was happy Nick and Lucinda had found each other. They were a perfect match. He had adopted Cassandra shortly after the marriage and she even looked a little like the Marino family. Luigi found himself envying his younger brother. He was so busy working and securing his future with Weston's he hadn't had time for any kind of a meaningful relationship. There was never a shortage of young women and he'd been involved with a number of them but none that he could picture sitting at the Marino family table.

He thought Mamma looked wonderful. Much younger than her age although she wasn't old by any means. Papa on the other hand had a sadness about him. Mamma told him about the loss of his good friend, Mr. Russo and how he had given up the land that had been in the family for years. He winced when he thought about the fact that none of his sons were interested in taking over the land. Nick loved working with grapes but his life was here in Camden Corners. Luigi couldn't imagine his brother living anywhere else.

“Luigi, what are you standing there for? Come have some breakfast,” his sister said when she noticed him in the doorway.

Rosa worried about Luigi. She had been more of a mother to her two brothers than a sister. They were both quite young when they arrived in the United States. She had seen to it that they attended school and church, did their homework, and behaved themselves at all times. Luigi was a natural scholar, he never had a failing grade and graduated at the top of his class. Nick, on the other hand struggled to get through his final exams. If it hadn't been for Rosa working with him every night he probably wouldn't have graduated. He was never interested in learning unless it had to do with grapes. He wasn't unintelligent, he just didn't like to learn what they were teaching in school. He always did well in mathematics and science, but wasn't interested in history and related subjects. Nick was happy in his life. He was doing what he had always wanted to do and he had Lucinda and Cassandra right there beside him. If what Lucinda thought was true, they would be having a little brother or sister for Cassandra one of these days. Eduardo mentioned last night that Luigi was asking about Amanda Mackenzie. Rosa thought to herself, those two were such a nice couple in high school. I wonder if Amanda is busy today?

“Sorry Rosa, I was just admiring my family. What a handsome group of folks we are.” Everyone laughed but Mamma agreed with him and smiled.

“Luigi, come sit by me,” said Mamma. Your sister was telling me about a fine young girl you were friends with in high school. I do remember you writing about a girl named Amanda. I thought it was such a pretty name. Daniella tells me she is back in town after a broken engagement. Do you think she may still be interested in you?”

“Mamma, it was a high school crush. So much has happened in both our lives since then. We aren't the same people anymore. Besides, I'm sure she doesn't even remember me.”

“That's not true, Uncle Luigi,” Daniella said. “Why just last week Amanda asked me how you were doing and if you were courting anyone. She smiled when I told her I didn't think so.”

“That settles it Luigi,” said Rosa. “You march yourself down to the Mackenzie house as soon as you finish your eggs. You and Amanda have wasted enough time. Now don't be stubborn.”

Luigi laughed at the women in his family who would like nothing better than to marry him off. He had to be honest with himself. He wouldn't mind that one bit. After breakfast Eduardo covered for him while he slipped out the back door. He remembered the way to the Mackenzie's house without even thinking about it. He had made the walk so many times. Amanda was his first love and if he were honest, his only love. He would have to find out more about this engagement of hers. Maybe she was pining away for the guy.

As he tapped on the door knocker he hoped he wouldn't embarrass himself. Just then the door was thrown open and a very angry looking fellow was leaving the house. He recognized Amanda as she followed him to the front walk and told him to calm down before he drove away in the horse and carriage that was waiting for him.

“He is going to kill himself,” an exasperated Amanda said to no one in particular. She turned around and saw Luigi standing before her.

“Luigi, I can't believe it's you. When did you get into town? How long will you be here? Oh Luigi you are certainly a sight for sore eyes. Come inside, please.” She took hold of his arm and guided him through the door.

“I don't want to bother you Amanda. It looks like you were involved in something and I interrupted you.”

“Don't be silly. That was Nathaniel Lancaster, III. We were engaged for about 30 seconds and now he thinks he can win my heart with his shenanigans. I hope that is the last I see of him.”

“You must have some feeling for him if you accepted his proposal of marriage.”

“It's a long story but I know how honorable you are so I will tell you. I'm ashamed to say that I was mesmerized by his charm and good looks. Nathaniel's grandfather, Nathaniel Lancaster, I is the founder of Lancaster Trust.”

Luigi was very familiar with Lancaster Trust and knew how influential the family was all along the eastern seaboard.

“I met Nathaniel at the wedding reception of a mutual friend in New York City when I was living there. As I said before, he was charming and I developed a crush on him almost immediately. We courted for about three months before he asked me to be his wife. I imagined my life would be filled with magic being married to a man of such wealth and influence. My friends all tried to dissuade me from even considering the marriage proposal but I was determined.

Our lives were a constant flurry of parties and activities that I had never experienced before. I didn't realize at the time but his friends were cold and indifferent to me. When we dined with his parents, which was often, his father tolerated my being with Nathaniel and was pleasant but his mother would peer over the top of her spectacles with disapproving looks. Still, I went along with it and hardly noticed. I had begged Nathaniel to accompany me home to Camden Corners to meet my family. He finally agreed and we arrived on the train one afternoon. You know what a big boisterous family we have. I think the moment I walked through the door I knew the visit was not going to go well.

Papa began quizzing Nathaniel about how he made his living and how he planned to support me. Nathaniel had never been asked questions like that before and told Papa in no uncertain terms that it was none of his business. Of course, Papa believed it was his business and refused to approve the marriage. Mama managed to calm Papa down enough to sit at the dinner table with the rest of the family. Mama had prepared her famous pot roast and gravy. Nathaniel was unaccustomed to that type of food and could not force himself to even taste the meal. That, of course, made Papa even angrier. That was just about the time I looked at Nathaniel and whatever charm I thought he had totally disappeared. I don't know why I thought a marriage between us would work. The man had absolutely no ambition and was willing to live off his family's money for the rest of his days.

Nathaniel left that evening insisting I go back to New York with him. I knew I couldn't possibly marry him and told him I was breaking off our engagement. I handed him the ring he had given to me and had such a sense of relief.

I stayed with my family for a few more days then returned to New York. I realized I had lost my perspective. I was living the kind of life I had read about in novels and that was not the way I wanted it. I gave my notice at work and came back to Camden Corners to see if I could discover myself again.

Nathaniel is unaccustomed to not getting his way. He hasn't told any of his friends or his family that we are no longer together. He has been dropping by every week or so trying to convince me to go back to New York with him. Every time he comes it is obvious he has been drinking all the the way from New York.

So there you have it. My story and not a pretty one. I'm very ashamed that I fell for such a shallow man.”

What Amanda didn't tell him is that she made a trip to Wilmington just before she became involved with Nathaniel. She had never gotten over her feelings for her high school sweetheart and Rosa had told her Luigi was not involved with anyone. She had the address of Luigi's apartment and as she was walking toward the entrance she saw him with a tall gorgeous blond. They were laughing as he opened the door for her and they disappeared into the building. She felt like a fool and high tailed it back to New York. If she had followed Luigi into the building she would have seen Luigi and the blond part at her apartment door where she was greeted by her husband who happened to be Luigi's best friend and Luigi walking by himself into his lonely living quarters.

“I'm happy you aren't marrying that fellow because now I can ask you to come to Rosa's tonight for dinner. My Mamma and papa are here from Tuscany and I'd love to introduce you to them.”

“Oh Luigi, I'm so happy for Rosa. I know how much she has wanted your folks to visit for all these years. I would love to meet them.”

“I'll pick you up at 5:00, that will give them plenty of time to look you over. Seems my nieces have given Mamma ideas about you and me. The whole family would like to see me married off so ignore them when they start in on you. We are still the best of friends, I hope.”

“The best of friends.” Amanda replied trying to keep her disappointment in check. She didn't want Luigi to know she wanted much more than friendship with him.

Without thinking, Luigi wrapped his arms around her kissing her as friends rarely do. He smiled as he walked back toward the restaurant to let Mamma and Rosa know he had invited a friend for dinner. A very special friend.

Mack Mackenzie was pouring coffee for a customer after refusing him another drink due to his obvious inebriation when Nick walked in with a white haired gentleman. Mack guessed immediately that this was the senior Luigi Rossi. The men shook hands

“Call me Lou.” said the older gentleman. “I'm in America now.”

“Luigi is in Camden Corners too. He is visiting your sister, Amanda as we speak. I don't think he has ever gotten over his feelings for her.” said Nick

“I could have told you Amanda feels the same way. She was engaged to some rich guy from New York. That didn't last long. The poor sap had no idea that Luigi has been the only one for her ever since fifth grade.”

Nathaniel Lancaster, III was hovering in the corner adding whiskey from the flask he carried in his pocket to the strong coffee the bartender was forcing on him. He was seething. He remembered seeing some chap standing near the door of the Mackenzie house when Amanda told him to get out. No wonder she broke off the engagement. She is involved with that guy. We'll see about that he said as he slithered out the front door and climbed unsteadily on his rented carriage and headed back down the road to have a little talk with Miss Amanda Mackenzie. He felt for the revolver he carried in his pocket.

“We'll just see about that!” he shouted

Loving Again

 

Loving Again

Lucinda and Cassandra were walking hand in hand on a beautiful Sunday morning. The birds were chirping in the trees as they passed by on their way to services at Saint Peter's Church. Lucinda was thinking back to just a few weeks ago. She didn't know where she would find the money to pay the rent on their tiny apartment in the big city. Now she and Cassandra were living in a beautiful room in the loveliest town she had ever seen. She had friends and was making new ones each day. They entered the church and sat down in the pew. Both mother and daughter were kneeling in prayer and thanksgiving for the home and family they had found in Camden Corners.

Seated behind them and to the right was Nicola Rossi and the entire Marino family. Nick's heart skipped a beat when he looked up and noticed Lucinda and Cassandra sitting so close. He had only met Lucinda one time but the attraction to her was almost overwhelming.

After services, Lucinda thought it would be fun to take a walk by the beach. Cassandra was squealing with delight when they came upon a traveling carnival with a carousel, fortune tellers and games of chance. Nick, who had been waylaid by several of his friends finally caught up with them. Lucinda was happy to see a familiar face.

The three of them rode the carousel several times. Nick won a stuffed bear for Cassandra that was almost as big as she was.

As they strolled by the fortune teller, she asked if “The little family would like to know how many more children they would have? Madame DuPont will tell you for only five cents.”

Nick laughed while Lucinda's face turned bright red.

“It is almost time for dinner at my sister Rosa's house. Would you and Cassandra like to join us today?” asked Nick.

“Oh my goodness, we couldn't impose on your family without warning.”

“Are you kidding? Rosa would be insulted if you didn't come. Besides, I saw you in church and promised her I would bring you and Cassandra back before the bread finished baking.”

“I'm hungry, Mama. May we eat with Mr. Nick today?”

“Hey, you two are ganging up on me. I'll give in if you are sure it's alright with your sister.”

Lucinda was finding out what it was like to be a part of a big happy family. She was welcomed with open arms by every one of the Marinos. Nick's nieces took Cassandra by the hand directly to the playroom where there were more dolls and doll houses than Cassandra had ever seen. His nephew Tony brought out his camera that was never very far away and started taking photos of everyone.

“Nicola, show Lucinda your garden and the grapevines. She can see what a wonderful farmer you are and what a superb vintner you will be.”

“You'll have to forgive my sister. She exaggerates when it comes to her family. According to her we are all the best at anything we do, the smartest of people and the best looking specimens that have ever been created.”

Lucinda laughed. She loved this family already. Now she felt close to two families in Camden Corners and she liked that feeling. Lucinda was impressed with what Nick had planted. The grapevines were growing nicely. Not that she knew anything about grapevines or grapes. She tasted one and it was sweet and tangy at the same time. Nick told her the vines on the left were ready to be harvested and he would be beginning the process of making them into wine. His father was a vintner in Tuscany and he had been working the fields since he was a young boy. Ernesto came outside with a glasses filled with wine made from the grapes. Lucinda thought it tasted good but had nothing to compare it to. She had never tasted wine before since she and Paul never had enough money to buy any kind of spirits.

It was well into the evening when Lucinda was able to tear Cassandra away from her new friends and all the wonderful toys. Rosa and all the family hugged their visitors goodnight.

Nick walked them back to the boarding house. Mrs. Watson was sitting on the porch and offered to take Cassandra up to bed while Lucinda chatted with Nick. They sat on the porch swing. Nick took her hand in his and Lucinda pulled it away. She apologized and said she felt a disloyalty to her husband. She knew that was absurd but she couldn't help herself. Nick apologized himself for being so forward. He admitted he was very attracted to Lucinda but he was willing to accept friendship only if that was all she was able to give. He hoped it wouldn't be too long before she felt comfortable enough to open her heart to him. They said goodnight and Lucinda walked up the stairs to her room.

Mrs. Watson was just dimming the light as Lucinda walked in to see her daughter sleeping soundly. Mrs. Watson could tell by the worried look on Lucinda's face that something was not right.

“Oh Mrs. Watson, I don't know what I am going to do. I do like Nick and I think he likes me but I feel so guilty for all the wonderful things that have happened lately. Paul worked so hard and struggled through his life and now I am finding happiness without him.”

“My dear child” replied Mrs. Watson “Allow me to tell you my story of how my guilt drove me away from a man I truly loved.”

My mother and father were married for several years before I was born. They thought they would remain childless but my birth proved them wrong. Mother was rather fragile and my birth was difficult for her. From what I remember of her she was a very tender and loving woman. I was only 9 years old when she contracted pneumonia and passed away. My father was devastated by her death but did his best to raise his little girl.

When I was barely 16, he passed too. His best friend, Mr. George Watson had never married. He took me into his home as I had no other relatives. It was considered scandalous that a young girl was living in the home of a man without benefit of marriage and therefore, at the age of 16 I was married to a much older man. He had taken me in when I had no one else. He was kind and loving and although I wasn't in love with him, I loved him very much.

Grace was born two years later and on her third birthday, George was taken from us. Money was not a concern since we had been well taken care of for the rest of our lives. The two of us lived in this big old house all by ourselves. I loved being a mother to Grace but I felt something was missing in my life. I had the idea of turning our home into a boarding house and renting rooms out to travelers and as a temporary home for newcomers to Camden Corners.

Oscar Crowley arranged a meeting with a young architect friend of his from Gilford. I remember the day Jamison Bentley came into my life. He was young and very good looking. I felt myself blush when he tipped his hat to me. He seemed to know exactly what I had in mind for this house. He took notes and drew sketches and had a plan the next day. It was exactly what I had dreamed of and work was started the following week.

Jamison arranged for all the workers that were needed and the transformation had begun. He was here every day supervising and I knew in my heart that I was falling in love for the first time in my life. The work was finally finished and I was happy but also sad because I knew Jamison would be leaving to return to his home in Gilford. The day the house was completed he showed me all the rooms and we walked out into the garden where he had built the gazebo.

The sun was setting and there was a soft breeze blowing the sycamore tree when he took me in his arms and kissed me as I have never been kissed before. Or since, I might add. I found myself kissing him back and feeling that kiss down to my toes. He told me he loved me and had from the beginning. He said we would be married as soon as possible and he would adopt Grace and we would give her plenty of brothers and sisters. It all sounded so wonderful to me but then I remembered George. The guilt took over and I told Jamison that would not be possible. I didn't love him and he should go back to Gilford and forget we ever met. I ran into the house locking the door behind me and sobbed for what seemed to be an eternity.

Jamison wrote to me several times but I returned his letters unopened. Finally, the letters stopped but my memories of him and that kiss were still with me as they are to this day. One of my roomers left a copy of the Gilford paper in his room and there was a notice of the impending nuptials of Mr. Jamison Bentley and Miss Hillary Carson. This time I only sobbed for half of an eternity.

“Oh, Mrs. Watson. What a heartbreaking story.”

“You now know my deep, dark secret that even my daughter doesn't know. Please call me Caroline.”

“I'd like that, Caroline. I think the next time I see Mr. Nicola Rossi, I may be brazen and reach for his hand this time and hope he doesn't yank it away.”

“I don't think he will” Caroline said with a wink.

“Have you ever heard anything about Jamison Bentley through these years?”

“Only that he has two sons. His wife passed away a couple of years ago. I almost wrote to him when Oscar Crowley told me that but it seemed too soon and besides, I'm sure he has forgotten all about me by now.”

Lucinda doubted that but didn't say anything. She hugged Caroline and thanked her for confiding in her. The two women bid each other good night.

The next morning, Lucinda joined Hyacinth and Dahlia. The twins were planning the house that would be built on the property.

“What you need is an architect and I think I know where to find one” said a smiling Lucinda.

“Let's check with Oscar Crowley. He will know where to find Mr. Jamison Bentley of Gilford.”