Storm Clouds Rolling In Page 42

  Rose could do nothing but stare.

  Carrie came up behind her and put both hands on her shoulders. “I wanted you to have the most special wedding gift ever. I hope you don’t mind that I kept it a surprise.”

  Rose whirled to stare into her eyes and then turned slowly back. A look of disbelieving wonder spread across her face. “Daddy?”

  John smiled, and opened his arms. “Rose,” he whispered.

  With a glad cry, Rose melted into his embrace, warm tears running down her cheeks. “Daddy! I can’t believe it’s you!”

  “It’s me, baby girl. You didn’t think I would miss your weddin’ did you?” John smiled and laid his finger gently across her lips as she began to speak. “There be plenty of time for questions later. Right now, you got a right impatient man waitin’ for you.”

  “Does he know?” Rose asked, brushing her tears away as bright happiness flooded her face.

  “He knows,” Sarah said with a smile. “And he knows your Daddy be here to stay!”

  Rose turned and threw her arms around Carrie’s neck. “Thank you,” she whispered. She could think of nothing more to say just then.

  Carrie laughed and pushed her gently away. “You’re welcome. I’m as happy as you are! Now go in there and get married.”

  Rose was glowing as she walked down the aisle toward Moses. She wasn’t sure how one person was supposed to contain so much happiness. Thoughts of her daddy standing behind her faded as she locked eyes with the man she was going to marry. Strong, quiet love reached out to draw her. Deep contentment and surety filled her as she moved steadily toward the one with whom she would share the rest of her life.

  The ceremony was brief and simple. Rose had insisted on only one thing with the minister Carrie had brought in. Long ago the marriage vows had been changed for slave weddings. No longer did they say “till death do us part.” The new version simply said, “till we part.” She had insisted the original vow be used. She had simply shaken her head when the minister tried to explain it was that way because slaves were property that could be sold and the old vows didn’t apply to them. “Do it my way, or I’ll find someone else.” He finally agreed, though his expression had left no doubt as to what he was thinking.

  Moses took Rose in his arms and kissed her deeply. Loud cheers and clapping broke out as he raised his head and turned Rose to face their friends and family.

  Carrie stepped forward then. “I have one more wedding gift for the newlyweds.”

  “But, Carrie...”

  Carrie held up her hand to stop Rose’s protest. “Don’t tell me I’ve already done enough. You’re my best friend. And you and Moses are helping me keep Cromwell Plantation running.” She turned to Moses. “Did you do a good job on that cabin I asked you to build?” Moses nodded, a wide smile growing on his face. “That’s good,” Carrie continued. “It’s your new home.” Then she turned to Rose. “You won’t be staying in this house any longer, Rose. It’s only right you should be with your husband.”

  Rose had lost count of how many times she had been rendered speechless that day.

  Moses looked down at Carrie. “You’re a good woman, Miss Carrie. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts.” His voice was deeper than normal.

  Carrie smiled up at him. “You’ve earned it, Moses. I wish I could give you something better...”

  Moses shook his head firmly. “That cabin is just perfect. I never dreamed we would have a home of our own for a long time.”

  Rose threw her arms around her friend and held on for a long time. “Thank you are mighty little words, Carrie,” she whispered into her ear. “You’re going to have to look into my heart to see how I feel right now. I don’t know how to say it.”

  Carrie hugged her back tightly. “As long as you’re happy, that’s all I care about.” She moved away and clapped her hands. “I’d say we have a lot of celebrating to do tonight. The barn is ready for the dance.”

  It was many hours later before Moses was able to take Rose to their new home. Taking her hand he led her to the door of the little cabin. “Welcome home, wife.”

  Rose smiled into his loving face. “Welcome home, husband,” she said tenderly.

  Together, hand in hand, they moved into the single room. Someone had already been there. A fire was blazing, casting its cozy warmth into the shadows.

  “A bed!” Rose cried. “A real bed!” Wonderingly, she moved toward the four-posted bed tucked into the far corner - its thick mattress covered with several heavy quilts. “Miss Carrie...”

  Moses nodded, his own eyes moist. “God is giving us things I never thought I would see on this earth. Miss Carrie is a good woman. I only hope I live long enough to give back to her some of what she has given us.”

  Rose nodded. “Me too,” she murmured.

  All talk ceased as Moses turned and gently took her in his arms. He lifted her off the floor easily, carried her to the bed and laid her down, lowering himself next to her. Rose turned her face toward him, her love shining freely. Moses stared into her eyes, his own dark eyes glowing with love and passion. Rose caught her breath and then released herself to the passion rising in her body. “I love you, Moses.”

  The fire had died down to a glowing bed of embers before any other words were spoken.

  THIRTY

  Carrie couldn’t help the shiver of excitement that coursed through her body as Moses dragged the massive Christmas tree onto the front porch. She was still like a child when it came to Christmas. She loved every minute of it! And her father and Robert were coming home today!

  Moses smiled at the look on her face. “Where you want this thing, Miss Carrie?” He lifted the giant cedar easily to rest on his shoulder. “It’s the best one I could find.”

  “It’s beautiful, Moses. I think it may be the tallest we’ve ever had!” She almost danced into the house. “I’ve cleared a space in the living room for it.” She looked over his shoulder and saw Sarah leading an army of women from the Quarters, their arms loaded with greenery. She clapped her hands with delight and led Moses into the house.

  It didn’t take Moses and Sam long to secure the tree on its wooden stand. Once it was standing, Carrie and the house servants went to work. Rose led the team of women who were arranging the greenery. The entire house was transformed as great boughs of cedar, pine and holly were used to artfully decorate every doorway, mantle, mirror and picture in the house.

  Carrie breathed in deep breaths of the fragrant aroma as she directed the decorating of the massive tree commanding attention next to the grand fireplace. Great trunks full of decorations had been carried down from the attic. Within a short time the tree was dressed with cotton balls, gilded nuts and berries, paper garlands, colored pieces of glass, and white lace.

  “We done finished, Miss Carrie!”

  Carrie laughed at the glowing face peeking around the corner. “Bring them in, Jubilee! We’re ready for you.”

  The proud little girl, with red ribbons adorning her black pigtails, led her little army into the room. That the children had been hard at work could not be denied. Great armloads of stringed popcorn were laid reverently on the rug in front of the tree.

  “Go on, Jubilee. All of you can put them on the tree.”

  Jubilee slapped her hand to her mouth, her eyes opening wide. “We ain’t never got to put it on the tree ‘fore, Miss Carrie.”

  Carrie smiled gently. The little girl was obviously afraid of the repercussions if it wasn’t done to Carrie’s standards. She walked over and tilted Jubilee’s chin until their eyes met. “You did a wonderful job with the stringing. I know I can trust you with the tree. Moses and Sam will hold you up to reach the high branches.”

  Jubilee’s face broke into a wide grin and excited giggles broke out from the other children. Moses and Sam walked over with huge grins to match. The whole atmosphere was one of joy and happiness. Never had there been a Christmas like this one.

  Carrie watched with a smile, her heart content. When the string
s of popcorn adorned even the highest reaches of the tree, the women moved forward once more to add burgundy velvet and pink satin ribbons. Their final contribution to the stunning tree was an assortment of miniature toys, dolls and furniture.

  “It’s the prettiest tree I’ve ever seen, Miss Carrie,” Rose said, stepping in from the kitchen. “Your Daddy will be proud.”

  Carrie turned to Rose with a sudden frown. “Do you really think so, Rose? Mother always took care of the tree in the past.” She hesitated. “Do you think it will remind him too much of her? I want Christmas to be special this year, but I fear it may be too soon for him.”

  Rose looked thoughtful. “Life is meant to be lived, Miss Carrie. It doesn’t do any good to run away from those things that bring memories. My mama always told me that all you can do is make new memories to replace the painful ones. That’s all you’re trying to do for your father.” She paused for a long moment. “You’ve done the right thing, Miss Carrie. How your father responds is not your responsibility. You have to give him room to find his own way - just like you have to find your own way.”

  Carrie turned to look at her friend. “You speak with great wisdom,” she teased, but her face sobered and her eyes filled with deep admiration. “Thank you, Rose. I’ll try to remember what you just said.”

  Silently, Carrie stood and stared at the tree. She couldn’t help wondering if this was the last Christmas like this one the South would ever know. She was sure her father was bringing bad news but she was glad there was still room for celebration and joy. Reality had not yet stalked in to rob them of all they held dear.

  Carrie was waiting on the porch when the carriage holding her father and Robert rolled up to the house. She rushed down the stairs and was in her father’s arms as soon as his feet hit the ground. “Father! I’ve missed you so much!”

  Thomas laughed and held his daughter at arm’s length. “You’re as beautiful as ever, Carrie. I’ve missed you, too.”

  Carrie’s throat caught as she looked into his eyes. He looked stronger than when he had left, but there was still that haunted look in his eyes, and she was sure she detected fear when he glanced toward the house. Without another word, Thomas turned away and began to climb the steps. Carrie stared after him, unsure of what to do.

  “Leave him be, Carrie. He needs some time to adjust to being back here.”

  Carrie turned to look into Robert’s eyes. “Is he going to be all right?”

  Robert shrugged. “He’s a different man in Richmond. There are no memories assaulting him at every turn. Being there has been good for him. He grew increasingly tense the closer we came to Cromwell.”

  “What can I do for him?”

  “Everything you’re already doing. Love him. Support him.” Robert’s voice changed, then, and became deep with a different kind of concern. He took her shoulders and turned her to face him. “Hello, Miss Carrie Cromwell. It’s good to see you again. Enough about your father. How are you doing?”

  The warm concern in his voice caused Carrie to smile. She stared into his dark eyes for a moment and then did what she had been dreaming of for weeks. She melted into his embrace and allowed him to hold her for a long moment. Finally, she pulled away and looked up into his face. “Hello, Robert Borden. It’s good to see you again, too.”

  Robert’s eyes darkened and he pulled her close to him again. Finally, he loosened his grasp and took her hand. “Ready to go in, Miss Cromwell?”

  Carrie, her heart pounding, gazed into his eyes. “Yes, Mr. Borden.” What she really wanted to do was beg him to take her away. To make all the misunderstandings disappear between them. To make them of one mind on the issue of slavery. To tear down all the walls that kept them apart. She knew what she believed. She also knew she loved this man.

  Once inside they saw Thomas in the living room staring at the Christmas tree. The colored pieces of glass caught the glow of the fire, casting rainbow images that danced through the air, only to be caught by the great boughs of greenery. Carrie moved forward and slipped her arm through his. She said nothing, and he seemed to not notice her presence. Robert remained where he was standing by the door.

  “Abigail loved Christmas,” Thomas whispered. His face sagged for a moment and then he straightened his shoulders and forced a smile to his lips. He turned his head to look down at Carrie. “The house is beautiful,” he said warmly. “Your mother would be very proud of you.”

  “Thank you, Father. I’m so very glad you’re home. I’ve missed you so much.”

  Thomas smiled again, wrapped his arm tightly around her shoulders and said, “We have much to talk about. You received my letter saying I could only stay until Christmas Day?”

  Carrie nodded. “It’s wonderful to have you home for any length of time.” Secretly, she had been relieved he couldn’t stay longer. She didn’t know how long she could keep the truth about Ike Adams and the missing slaves from him. If he knew there was no overseer, she was sure he would insist on hiring another one. Determined to run the plantation her own way, she could only hope the whirl of Christmas would keep him from asking too many questions.

  Thomas moved to a deep chair and settled down with a sigh. Robert and Carrie both took chairs nearby. A deep silence fell on the room - a peaceful quiet that all of them needed.

  “We’re expecting another guest in a few days,” Thomas suddenly said.

  “Oh?” Carrie replied with a lift of her eyebrows. “One of your friends from Richmond?”

  Thomas shook his head. “I ran into young Matthew Justin at the train station a few days ago. He is on his way to cover the Secession Convention in South Carolina. He had no plans for Christmas, so I invited him here when he returns.”

  “That’s wonderful!” Carrie said warmly. She sincerely liked the straightforward redhead. “I’m glad I’ll have the opportunity to return some of the hospitality he showed me in Philadelphia.” Then she turned to Robert. “I’m sure you’ll be glad to spend time with your friend.”

  Robert nodded. “I will also be glad to hear his perspective on the situation in South Carolina. He seems to have a knack for seeing murky affairs a little more clearly than most.”

  Carrie turned to look at her father. “I hate to bring up politics so soon, Father. I know you’ve just gotten home, but I feel so out of touch here. What is going on in South Carolina? Are they really going to secede from the Union?”

  Thomas nodded his head and sighed deeply. “I’m afraid so, Carrie. They meet tomorrow, you know. One hundred and seventy of South Carolina’s best men will meet to determine the destiny of the state - and that of the whole country I fear.” He paused, his brow furrowed. “Supposedly the matter is still under consideration, but those men are meeting to vote for secession. I know they want it done peacefully. In their heart of hearts they believe it will turn out all right. They are not prepared to compromise, and they seem to have the kind of courage that keeps forlorn hopes alive beyond rational expectations.”

  “You don’t agree with them?” Carrie asked.

  Thomas shrugged his shoulders. “They are convinced the rest of the South will follow them out of the Union. They believe that with such a united front, the United States government will make no effort to stop them.”

  Robert spoke up them. “I’ve talked to Matthew. He feels their optimism is wildly overstated. He doesn’t believe Lincoln will sit idly by and watch the Union disintegrate.”

  “What about Buchanan? He is still our president,” Carrie said.

  Thomas grimaced. “Yes, I suppose he is. Buchanan is a good man and a strong southern supporter, but he has taken no action to reverse the flow of the tide. He seems as bewildered as the rest of the country as to how to stop the course of events sweeping our country into war.”

  Carrie frowned. “You still believe we are headed for war?”

  Thomas stood and walked closer to the fire. He didn’t answer for a long time. When he spoke, his voice was heavy and old. “I believe South Carolina is right. The
Cotton States are determined to leave the Union. They will follow South Carolina’s lead. I agree with Matthew that Lincoln will not stand idly by. He is definitely not another Buchanan. The whole country is sitting on a keg of dynamite, and the fuse has already been lit. Each day it grows shorter.” He stared down at the fire, then looked back up. “It’s just a matter of time before the whole thing explodes.”

  “Will Virginia secede?” Carrie couldn’t stop her explosion of questions now that she had the chance to voice them.

  Thomas returned to his chair. “Right now there are still enough reasonable men to keep it from happening. The voices for secession are growing loud, but our voices are still louder. Only time will tell...” His voice trailed off.

  Carrie suddenly noticed how tired he looked. She jumped up from her chair, hurried over, and laid her hand on his shoulder. “I’m sorry, Father. I know you are exhausted. We can talk in the morning. I’m sure you could use a good night’s sleep.”

  “I’m tired,” Thomas admitted with a small smile. Then his eyes took on that haunted look as he glanced at the stairs.

  Carrie spoke quickly. “I had the blue guest room prepared for you, Father.”

  Thomas turned to gaze down at her. “Thank you,” he said simply. “I will see you in the morning.”

  Carrie watched as he slowly ascended the stairs. She had known intuitively that he would not want to be in the room he had shared with his wife, but she also knew he would have plenty of other ghosts to fight. She breathed a quiet prayer as she noted his heavy steps.

  Robert was sitting quietly in his chair when she returned to the living room. Carrie watched him, undetected in the shadows, for a few moments. The light played on the strong angles of his face and glinted off his dark hair. His eyes were closed as he relaxed in the cozy warmth of the room. His face had an almost little boy vulnerability to it. Carrie felt a warm surge of love shoot through her. The suddenness of it startled her and caused a deep flush to rise to her cheeks. She was grateful for the obscurity of the shadows.