Lacy: (Sweet Historical Western Romance) (Pendleton Petticoats Book 5) Read online

  “Thank you for dinner, Betty. It was very good and much appreciated. I’ll take this over to Ilsa’s shop while Mother is asleep.”

  Grant tucked the letter into his pocket, lifted the trunk, and stepped outside into the cool night air, hurrying back downtown.

  As he walked, he thought about the note from his sister.

  Dearest Grant,

  My sincere sympathies Mother has arrived unannounced and unplanned at your door. As you may have guessed, William and I needed a break from her helpful suggestions (also known as unwarranted interfering). We took the children to Baltimore for two weeks of peaceful bliss. We returned home to an overjoyed staff. Her absence was most eagerly noted. Apparently, she departed a few days after we left for the trip.

  When I received your telegram, letting us know she was there, I felt a mixture of both relief (that she is safe) and sorrow (because you have to endure her attention all alone without anyone for support). It appears neither her meddling nor her wicked tongue know any bounds. How unbearable for her to say such terrible things to Miss Williams — on the street, no less!

  Enclosed you will find a gown I wore two years ago to a grand ball at the governor’s mansion. I’m sure, should any alternation be needed, your friend, Mrs. Campanelli, can see to the details. Thank you for the referral to the remarkable woman. I have received many, many compliments on the gown she created for me. I shall have to contact her soon about making a gown for the autumn season.

  Your request for help with a ball gown for your dear friend pleased me greatly. Miss Williams sounds like a wonderful girl and I look forward to someday meeting her. I understand your explanation about her financial situation and safeguarding her pride. From what you’ve shared, I do believe you’ve finally met a sensible, kind woman who appreciates you for you and not your wealth or status. We couldn’t be happier for you, dear brother.

  Please do your best to ignore Mother’s cruel and most often thoughtless words. I shall look forward to hearing all about the ball and how lovely Miss Williams appeared in the gown.

  Do take care, Grant.

  All our best to you. The children send their love to their favorite uncle!

  With love,

  Agnes

  P.S. Perhaps, in light of Mother’s inability to hold her tongue and how much we all dread her visits, it is time for her to once again have her own home. Please let us know your thoughts on this at your earliest convenience.

  Grant thoroughly liked Agnes’ idea of his mother having her own home again. It was past time for her to have her own place and set down her roots. If she did, she might have far less time to torment him and his sisters.

  He just hoped if they talked her into it, she’d choose a location thousands of miles away from Pendleton.

  Chapter Nineteen

  “I better just stay home,” Lacy spoke to the reflection in the bedroom mirror. She’d spent the better part of the afternoon primping, wanting to look her best for the ball at Dogwood Corners that evening. Admittedly, it was more about looking her best for Grant than anyone at the ball, but Ilsa, Marnie, Aundy, and Caterina had spoken of little else the last week.

  The women launched into final preparations for the ball the day after Easter, enlisting every able body to help.

  Lacy had gone out to Dogwood Corners the previous evening to offer her assistance with decorations. She’d never been to the expansive, impressive mansion. It took a great effort on her part to keep her mouth from hanging open as she and Grant rode up the tree-lined drive bursting with incredible pink and white blooms.

  After meeting Arthur and Shea Meade, the caretaker and his wife, Sadie and Noah escorted her to the ballroom. Marnie and Ilsa worked to cover tables situated around the edges of the large room with linens while Aundy arranged flowers.

  Before the evening was through, they’d set up the buffet table for the meal in the foyer outside the ballroom. They moved several large plants from around the house into the ballroom to create a few intimate seating areas. As a finishing touch, they decorated the stage area with large wicker baskets of flowers.

  Lacy enjoyed the time with her friends. The women all chatted about their gowns and hairstyles while the men joked as they moved furniture and set up tables and chairs.

  Now, as she stared into the mirror, nerves nearly rendered her helpless. In truth, she often forgot she was any different from her friends when she was around them. They all had unique histories. Aundy, Ilsa and Lars had a Norwegian ancestry while Tony and Caterina came from strong Italian stock. Kade’s occasional drawl hinted at his southern roots while Garrett and Grant both had an English background.

  When she joined in their teasing and laughter, it was easy to forget she was an Indian raised on the reservation, bound by tradition.

  At that moment, as her reflection taunted her with her black hair, dark eyes, and prominent cheekbones, her heritage seemed strikingly clear.

  What did she think she was doing, wearing a gown that cost more than everything she would earn in a year’s work at the telephone office? How could she contemplate attending a fancy party at a big mansion with the town’s handsome bachelor banker?

  The chime of the clock alerted her that time for indecisiveness had ended.

  With one final glance in the mirror, she tugged on her borrowed gloves. She picked up the beautiful reticule her grandmother had created for her and sent into town with Walker that week. Lacy mentioned her plans to go to the ball the last time she visited Rebecca. The old woman had encouraged her to enjoy the evening with her friends. As a surprise, her grandmother stitched tiny white disc shells, like the ones they used for earrings, to a soft leather bag. The small reticule was perfect for holding a few essential items. It was one of the loveliest things her grandmother had ever created.

  Carefully lifting the skirt of her gown, Lacy picked up a cape Ilsa insisted she borrow and hurried down the stairs, marveling at the comfortable shoes Grant’s sister sent with the gown. The small heel gave her a little added height, but the fabric of the dancing slippers felt light and flexible.

  She hurried to the front of the store and unlocked the door just as Grant drove up in a buggy.

  Lacy hid her surprise that he was alone. She assumed she’d have to endure the ride out to Dogwood Corners with his mother.

  Relieved, tension flowed away and her shoulders lifted as she opened the door and waved to him.

  Grant stepped from the buggy, doffed the dapper top hat he wore, and bowed to her.

  Suppressing an urge to giggle, she smiled graciously as he took her hand in his and kissed the back of it. Tingles raced up her arm from his touch, even through her glove.

  “Good evening, Mr. Hill. You’re quite dashing this evening.” She admired the way his swallowtail coat fit over his broad shoulders and his dark trousers stretched along his legs to the tops of his shiny shoes.

  He tipped his head to her. “I can’t even find words to describe how beautiful you look.” Grant couldn’t wait to hold her in his arms on the dance floor. He’d be the envy of everyone there. The plume and rose in her hair highlighted the midnight luster of her dark locks while his great-grandmother’s earrings dangled enticingly from her ears.

  The gown Agnes sent fit Lacy to perfection. He’d learned that fact from Ilsa, although he hadn’t seen her model it beforehand. She told him he’d be quite pleased at how it looked and she was right. Lacy appeared graceful, regal, and entirely enchanting in the elaborately detailed gown that was the perfect color for her.

  He settled the top hat at a jaunty angle on his head, took the long gray damask cape from her hands, and draped it around her shoulders.

  As she adjusted it, he locked the door then handed her the key. She dropped it into her bag and accepted his arm on the short walk to the buggy. He gave her a hand as she climbed in and arranged her skirts.

  When he scooted a little closer to her than was proper, she didn’t voice a complaint. Instead, she wanted to wrap her hand around his arm an
d lean against his comforting presence. She settled on inhaling a deep breath and savoring his masculine, spicy scent.

  He waited until they were on the road out of town before turning to give her a slow, thorough perusal. Heat suffused her cheeks under his intense scrutiny. She raised her gaze to his, enchanted by the twinkle in his hazel eyes and charming smile.

  In need of a distraction, he glanced down and noticed the shell bag she carried. “Did Rebecca make that?” He tapped it once with his index finger.

  “Yes, she did. She sent Walker into town to bring it to me.” Grant had never seen anything like it and had no doubt Rebecca could rake in a small fortune creating them once women got a gander at the unique little bag.

  “It’s very nice,” Grant said, smiling warmly at the girl beside him. He couldn’t tell if Lacy was nervous, excited, curious, or some combination of the three.

  From the way she’d enjoyed herself the previous evening, he assumed most likely she was excited with a dash of nervous and a hint of curiosity.

  “I, um…” Lacy studied the sequins shimmering in the sunlight on the hem of her gown, peeking from beneath the cape. “I can’t thank you enough for all this, Grant.” She waved a hand in front of her, indicating her outfit. “For making this evening possible.”

  “You’re most welcome, Lacy. It’s just a dress, and one my sister most likely wouldn’t have worn again. You’re doing her a favor by wearing it tonight.” Grant’s boyish grin turned Lacy’s insides into a molten mess.

  “It’s not just the dress and all the accessories. It’s the opportunity to go tonight, to feel like a princess. The other day, I was reading a book of fairytales to Sophie and Laila while Marnie and Ilsa worked on the last of the dresses for the ball tonight. One of the stories was about a girl who wanted to go to a ball. A wonderful fairy made it possible.” Lacy offered Grant a saucy grin. “Even though you don’t look like the fairy in the story, I feel like a princess and that’s because of you. I don’t know how I can ever thank you.”

  “By having the time of your life tonight. Take pleasure in the party, Lacy. Laugh, dance, and have fun with our friends. That is all I ask of you. Well, that…” Grant roguishly waggled an eyebrow at her, “and maybe a kiss or two later, when I escort you home.”

  “Mr. Hill! What kind of girl do you think I am?” Lacy shot him a feigned look of insult before she broke into a broad smile. “I think I can definitely promise two.”

  Grant lost himself in her dark eyes and moved so his lips lingered close to hers. “May I claim one now?”

  Lacy pulled back. “Certainly not. There are far too many witnesses nearby to carry tales back to your mother.” Buggies, wagons, and carriages traveled on the road in front of and behind them, stirring up dust. She was grateful Ilsa cautioned her to wear the long cape over her dress to keep it clean. “Speaking of your mother, I expected to share the ride out to Dogwood Corners with her.”

  Grant smirked. “You mean you steeled yourself to endure her acid remarks and caustic comments. At least now you can relax and enjoy my charismatic company.”

  Lacy shook her head. “Rather full of self-importance, aren’t we?”

  “Nope, but I am full of anticipation of spending a wonderful evening with you. I’ve cautioned my mother to be on her best behavior. She’s riding with her friend, Mrs. Bradshaw.”

  Grant was quiet for a moment before a cocky grin rode his lips. “Isn’t there a witch or an old hag in your story? If there ever was someone who would make a dandy evil queen, Mrs. Bradshaw should get the job. Mother would be next in line.”

  Although she tried to stifle her giggle, Grant’s observation greatly amused Lacy. Wholeheartedly, she agreed with him, but it was impolite to voice her opinions. With effort, she kept them to herself.

  Beneath the canopy of blooming dogwood trees lining the drive, neighbors and friends called friendly greetings as they approached the grand house at Dogwood Corners. The three-story home looked like a photo Lacy had once seen of a southern mansion. Flowers bloomed in colorful profusion from the neatly trimmed beds. Nearly as resplendent were the gowns of women as they walked up the steps to the front door.

  Eager yet anxious, Lacy accepted Grant’s hand after he stopped the buggy and turned the reins over to one of the young men hired to park the buggies and see to the horses.

  Gently placing her hand on his arm, Grant escorted her up the steps to the front entry where Lars and Marnie welcomed everyone to their home. The smell of roasted meat hung in the air and the sounds of happy voices tickled her ears.

  For a moment, the sheer number of people milling around left her overwhelmed. Grant helped remove her cape and passed it to a girl keeping track of all the women’s wraps and men’s hats.

  “Shall we?” Grant bent down by her ear as he spoke so she could hear him above the noise. “You’re sure to be the belle of the ball, Miss Williams. Don’t forget to save me the last dance.”

  Lacy glanced at him as if he’d lost his mind. She was content just to be there, watching all the fascinating proceedings. The very notion of anyone favoring her with attention left her on edge.

  Sadie ran up and clasped her hand, putting her at ease. “Lacy! You look gorgeous.” The girl gave Grant a quick perusal. “You look very handsome, Mr. Hill, for a citified banker.”

  “I’ll take that as a compliment, Miss Sadie.” Grant always enjoyed conversing with the plainspoken child. He never had to wonder what was on her mind because she most often let everyone know. “You look quite fetching yourself.”

  The girl blushed and rubbed her hands down the front of her new dress. “Mama made this for me. All the girls got new dresses for Easter.”

  “It’s lovely on you, Sadie.” Lacy cupped the child’s chin in her hand and offered her a warm smile. “Where are the rest of the children?”

  “Anyone younger than me is corralled upstairs in the playroom with a few of the older girls keeping an eye on ‘em. The rest of us get to have dinner with the grownups. Dad said we could even stay for a few of the dances, if we behave.”

  “That is very exciting, isn’t it?” Lacy asked. Grant casually walked them both toward the ballroom.

  “Isn’t everything so pretty?” Sadie clasped her hands under her chin as she gazed into the big ballroom. The fragrance of the floral bouquets on the tables and around the stage floated on the breeze from the open windows. The lights in the room created a golden glow and the floor gleamed, just waiting for the dancing to begin.

  “It’s like something out of a picture book,” Lacy said, in awe of the setting as well as the man beside her. Grant’s grip on her arm tightened and she felt him stiffen. Slowly lifting her gaze from Sadie, she hid a frown as Imogene Hill approached with her friends trailing behind her.

  “Just smile and don’t let her bother you, Lacy. You are the prettiest girl here. Besides you own more panache and kindness than all four of those old gossips ever hope to possess.” Grant’s whispered words encouraged her even though she dreaded what would happen if his mother chose to make another scene.

  Much to her relief, after a cursory glance and a cool glare, Imogene pretended Lacy didn’t exist. She attempted to pull Grant away, clinging to his other arm, but he gently shook her off. “Mother, did you see that table full of sweets over there? I do believe I saw Mrs. Meade set out an entire platter of éclairs. I know they are your favorite.”

  When Imogene turned to study the dessert table, Grant escorted Lacy into the ballroom and located a table behind a grouping of tall plants that hid them from view of the door. Sadie trailed along behind them.

  “Why don’t you ladies take a seat and I’ll bring a plate back for you. I want to have a good table for the evening so we can watch all the happenings.”

  “This is a good one, Mr. Hill. You can see the whole dance floor without having every busybody spy on you from the door,” Sadie said. The girl attempted to emulate Lacy’s fine manners as she took a seat in the chair Grant held out for her. “I�
�ll keep Lacy company until you get back, but then I’m gonna fill my own plate. I helped Mrs. Meade with the food this morning and I know exactly what I want to eat.”

  Grant tipped his head to the girl then smiled at Lacy. “I’ll return momentarily.”

  Easily locating his mother in the food line, Grant spoke to her briefly, making sure she planned to sit with her friends, then moved to the back of the row. It didn’t take long to make his way through the line, filling two plates. In an effort to keep anyone from tampering with the punch bowl, it sat inside the ballroom in plain view of the entire room.

  After leaving the plates of food with Lacy and walking Sadie to the buffet, he filled two cups with punch. Grant returned to the table as the younger Nash couple took seats in two of the empty chairs.

  “This is quite the party your family put together. I’m impressed.” Grant smiled at his friends, grateful for their presence at the table. He wanted Lacy to relax and enjoy herself. She would if she spent the evening around people she knew and trusted, like Aundy and Garrett.

  “It’s mostly Ilsa and Marnie’s hard work,” Aundy said as she glanced around the room. “With the less than favorable circumstances that transpired at this house before Ashton Monroe’s arrest, I never expected it to become such a welcoming home for so many. I’m so pleased Marnie and Lars have turned it into an orphanage.”

  Grant nodded his head. “It’s a much needed service they provide and I can’t think of a more loving family to run the orphanage than all of you.”

  “Honestly, we couldn’t do it without Arthur and Shea Meade. They keep everything running like clockwork.” Garrett grinned as Kade and Caterina joined them. He lifted an eyebrow at his friend’s plate, piled high with food. “You leave any food for the rest of the party, Deputy?”

  Kade craned his neck to stare at Garrett’s plate across the table. “It appears like you helped yourself to plenty. If you don’t want me to hog all the dessert, keep your comments to yourself.”