Cassies miracle, p.23
Cassie's Miracle, page 23
Ed placed his hand on Cassie’s back, wanting to soothe her. It broke his heart to see her like this. He knew her pain, having lost his own father and brothers. Ed knew how hard it was to be without family, especially on days like these. And then he had a brilliant idea.
“George? Would you mind being my Best Man? I would’ve had my father or one of my brothers stand in with me, if they were still alive. But since they aren’t here, would you stand in their place?” Ed asked. “I would really appreciate it.”
George tried to hide his tears, looking down at his hands encircling his warm coffee cup. Ed would be as close to a son as he would ever have. “Son, I would be pleased to be your Best Man.” George stood to give Ed a hearty handshake, then thinking better of it, pulled him in for a tight hug.
Ed felt George’s fatherly support again. Both the men struggled to hold their emotions in check, withdrew, then chuckled self-consciously, as Cassie and Mabel laughed too.
“All right, that’s enough tears! Let’s get this wedding planned!” Aunt Mabel said as she went to get a plate of shortbread and the kettle of hot coffee to bring back to the table.
“By the way, where are you two planning to live, Ed?” George smiled slyly, as he took a bite of shortbread, already knowing the answer.
Ed caught George’s hint and turned to face Cassie. “Cass! I’ve bought us a place just a mile north of here.” Ed took her hands and became excited as he shared his dream with her. “It’s an established ranch, in a lovely, wooded area, with the Crow Creek running through it. It has a cottage and a barn and corral, with plenty of land for cattle to graze. The owner is going to sell me his herd. Then I’m going to resign as sheriff so I can be a full-time rancher like George,” Ed said, smiling proudly.
“What!” exclaimed Cassie, caught completely by surprise. “That’s wonderful news! I hadn’t even thought about where we would live once married. When can we start moving in?” asked Cassie.
“We can start moving things in on Wednesday. Mr. Crowley, the owner, is moving to California right after the papers are signed. He told me he’s only taking what little he can on the train, and leaving most of the furnishings behind, and what we don’t want we are free to sell. I’m going to the cottage tomorrow to sign the papers, if you want to come with me and see it for yourself,” Ed said excitedly.
Mabel looked at George and motioned toward the other side of the house. George nodded his head to Mabel, to answer her unspoken question. “Cassie, Ed, we want to give you the furnishings in Cassie’s room. Everything is new and will be in better condition than what’s in the cottage. It’s our wedding gift to you,” Aunt Mabel said smiling.
“Oh, Aunt Mabel and Uncle George, that’s so generous.” Cassie stood and gave them each a squeeze and kiss on the cheek. “We’re so grateful, thank you so much. You’ve already done so much for me.”
“Well, we did buy it for you, so it’s only fitting they go with you,” George said, blushing from her attention.
Cassie took Ed’s hand and pulled him up. “Come on. Come and see.”
“Sure, I’d love to,” Ed said apprehensively, not sure he should be going into a young lady’s bedroom. Holding back, he thanked George and Mabel for their generosity, then with a nod from George he let Cassie lead him by the hand to the front bedroom.
Cassie opened the door and lit the lamp on the bedside table. Ed appreciated the beautifully furnished room, noting the large oak bed, two bedside tables, a dressing table and mirror, as well as a bureau and wardrobe, all with intricately carved designs. He walked around the room admiring the fine craftsmanship, running his fingers over the smooth surface of the finished wood. Even the matching rugs and other accessories added to the splendor of the room. Ed had never owned anything so elaborate.
“Wow! It’s lovely. Fit for a princess, like you.” He watched as Cassie opened the window, letting in the cool night air that fluttered the curtains around her, and wondered what it would be like to be with her every night.
She turned back to him. “Not just for me, it’ll be ours.”
“I like the sound of that.” Feeling the excitement of their future together, Ed pulled Cassie to him for a quick kiss.
Hearing the coffee kettle clank as Aunt Mabel put it back on the cast iron stove, they separated and quietly laughed. Blushing, they quickly regained their composure and returned to the kitchen.
“George and Mabel, thank you so much! It’s more than generous of you. What a beautiful gift,” Ed said seriously.
“You’re very welcome,” they said, pleased with Ed’s acceptance of their gift.
Squeezing Cassie’s hand, Ed picked up his hat off the peg by the door and put it on. “It’s getting late, and I think I should get home. I have more things to follow up on tomorrow. The rest of the planning I think I can leave in your capable hands, Mabel.” Ed tipped his hat to Mabel who nodded in agreement. “The only thing I’m particular about, is where I want to have the wedding.” Looking at Cassie he continued, “I hope you don’t mind. But I would like to have the wedding in the meadow by Clearwater Pond.”
“I don’t mind at all. It’s a beautiful spot,” Cassie said, understanding the deep meaning of the location.
“Cassie, will you join me outside for a moment?” Ed asked softly.
“Sure, Ed.” Cassie looked back to her aunt and uncle. “I’ll be right back.”
“Good night, George and Mabel. Thanks again for everything!”
Once outside and a short distance from the house, Ed took Cassie into his arms, unable to control the overpowering affection he felt for her. “Cass, my love. I’m the happiest I’ve ever been. And it’s your doing. I will love you forevermore.” Cassie’s dreamy eyes looked up at him as he wrapped his arms around her and kissed her passionately. “Goodnight, my love.”
Breathless, Cassie whispered, “Goodnight, Prince Edward. I love you with all my heart.” Her fingers slipped through his hands as he backed away.
Ed turned and strode to the fence, jumped up onto his horse and rode off into the night.
Cassie stood watching her handsome prince fade into the distance. The night breeze helped cool her hot cheeks as she gave herself a few minutes to catch her breath and let her pounding heart calm before she turned to go inside.
Closing the door quietly behind her, Cassie announced to her aunt and uncle, “I think I’ll head to bed now. It’s going to be a busy week and I am feeling exhausted. Thanks again for everything. Love you both,” Cassie said as she gave them each a quick hug and kiss on the cheek. She retired to her room and closed the door and collapsed on her bed, smiling with a far away look. “Wow!” she thought. “What a day! So much has happened. So many things to think about. Aunt Mabel and Uncle George knew I was pregnant and were so understanding. And soon I’ll be married and living with Ed in our own home.” Cassie felt like she was floating on a cloud as her heart soared, all due to the miracle of love. She felt so much love from Uncle George and Aunt Mabel, more that she could have ever imagined, never guessing a month ago all the wonderful things that awaited her. In her wildest dreams she had never pictured a more perfect man than Ed.
***
The night air invigorated Ed as he galloped home on his trusty steed. His joy was giving him boundless energy. Cassie made him feel so carefree, and happy. With Cassie he felt stronger love than ever before. Perhaps it was because of the loss of his wife and daughter, that he felt love more deeply now. It was like walking through a desert on a scorching hot day, and finally taking a drink of cold water. Ed never wanted to be without love ever again. Cassie was his sweet water, quenching his thirst, filling his soul with joy. As Ed continued to ponder on his feelings for Cassie, a song began to build in his mind and a desire to express his love for her. And that’s what he would do, he would write her the song of his heart. Ed smiled as he rode, dreaming of serenading his beautiful wife on their wedding day.
When Ed got home, he set out to write a song to convey his deepest feelings for Cassie. He worked for hours into the night.
***
Monday morning came bright and warm, promising to be a hot day. Luckily a breeze always seemed to be blowing in Cheyenne.
Cassie and Mabel finished the morning chores and, changing into their nicest everyday dresses, they took the surrey into town. Their first stop was at the pastor’s house to talk to him about the wedding ceremony.
“I know this is short notice, but Sheriff Havoc and Cassie would like to get married on Saturday,” Mabel explained. “And they were wondering if you would perform the ceremony. And they want it at the Clearwater Pond, if that would be all right?”
“I’d be happy to conduct the ceremony for Sheriff Havoc and Cassie, anywhere they wish. Can you tell me your full names, so I can get it correct?” Reverend Gather asked Cassie as he took out a pen and paper.
“My full name is Cassandra Marie Black.” Feeling a little embarrassed Cassie said, “I’m not sure of Ed’s full name, all I know him by is Edward Havoc.”
“That’s all right, a small detail that can be remedied right before the ceremony. Will you be exchanging rings?” asked the Reverend.
“Oh, I don’t know that either. I’ll find out and get back to you,” Cassie said shyly.
Their next stop was the post office. Cassie sent a telegram to Madeline: Madeline MacRea: Getting Married Saturday July 3 6:30 pm. Come If You Can, Cassie.
Cassie had two letters to send as well. That morning before chores she’d written to Madeline detailing all the excitement at the church dance, including the surprise visit from Bart, which landed her unconscious in Ed’s arms. Cassie voiced her frustration regarding Bart and how she firmly chastised him for coming to Cheyenne unannounced, and adamantly told Bart she was in love with Ed and planned on marrying him. Cassie included the part about Bart ending up in jail after getting drunk and brawling in the saloon. She confided her feelings about Ed and confessed how his kisses and tender words of affection had her floating on clouds. And how surprised she’d been when she told Aunt Mabel and Uncle George about the pregnancy, and how lovingly they accepted her and the coming baby. Lastly, Cassie included the wonderful news about the wedding and asked if she could try and be there for her, then signed the letter as her kindred spirit.
Cassie’s second letter was to the Smith family.
June 28, 1869
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Smith,
I hope this letter finds you all well. I wanted to write and let you know how wonderful my life is in Cheyenne. I still miss my family and all of you, but I’m very happy here with my aunt and uncle. They’re very good people and treat me like a daughter.
I have great news! I met a wonderful man, and we will be getting married this coming Saturday, July 3rd. My fiancé has purchased an established homestead and we plan to raise cattle there.
I want to thank you for sending Midnight back to me. It was a miracle he escaped and now brings me such happiness. Thank you again for all the love and kindness you showed me during that tragic time after the attack and death of my family. I appreciate all you did for me. I’m sure it brought my parents peace knowing you were there for me in my time of need. You are true friends.
Wishing you all the best,
Cassie Black
As Cassie handed the postmaster her letters, he found a letter addressed to her from Madeline. Thanking him, Cassie went outside to read the letter in the shade beside Aunt Mabel on the bench.
June 25, 1869
My Lovely Cassie,
I’m overjoyed to hear about your engagement! You’re definitely a special young woman, and apparently, I’m not the only one to have noticed. He must be a special man to have caught your attention. You will make a wonderful wife. I am surprised to hear about your pregnancy, but do not despair, Cassie. From what you’ve told me, Ed loves you very much and I believe he speaks the truth and will love the baby as well. Go forward with joy. I will do what I can to get to your wedding. I would love to be there for you and share in your special day.
I have good news as well. My sister delivered on June 24th, a big and healthy baby boy. She’s doing well. I plan to only stay a week or two more, then head home to Kansas. If your wedding is soon, I may still be around, otherwise I will be thinking of you on your special day. Please send word as soon as you know the date.
I think you should keep the blanket you were making for my sister. It should be for your baby. You never know, it might be a girl.
I can’t wait to hear all about the dance that you’re going to, be sure to tell me all the details. It’s so romantic to hear about people falling in love. Reminds me of my courting years and makes me feel young and old at the same time.
Give my best to Ed and your aunt and uncle.
Your sister in spirit,
Madeline
“Wonderful news! Madeline’s sister had her baby and they’re both doing well,” Cassie said as she folded up the letter and placed it back into the envelope.
“Congratulations to Madeline and her family. That’s great to hear.” Aunt Mabel smiled and fanned herself with a letter. “Shall we go to the dress shop?” She squinted up at the rising sun and replaced her bonnet.
“May I stop by Ed’s office before we go to the store? I’d like to find out what time we are going to go out to our new place.”
“That’s a good idea. You go to Ed’s office while I see about the cake. I can meet you at the dress shop in about an hour.”
“That should be plenty of time.” Cassie’s mind was making a list of all the things she needed to get done today while in town. “I’ll walk to Ed’s office and see you in an hour.” Putting her letter away in her drawstring purse, she headed eagerly towards the Sheriff’s office.
***
Mabel had more plans to set in motion than she had let on to Cassie. Mabel needed to let her Sewing Bee Circle from church know about the wedding. As Cassie left the post office, Mabel turned the surrey towards the far end of town to visit a friend.
“Well Mabel, what a surprise. To what do I owe this pleasure?” Carole asked as she opened the screen door, dressed in her day dress and apron as her cheery smile and inviting eyes welcomed Mabel.
“Carole! I have wonderful news and a favor to ask,” Mabel said in excitement.
“Come in. Come in,” Carole said as she opened the door and invited Mabel into her kitchen. Carole started heating the kettle for tea while Mabel found a seat at the table. “What’s the wonderful news?” Carole finally asked, anxious to hear.
Mabel’s eyes twinkled with excitement as she removed her bonnet. “You remember my niece, Cassie? You met her when she first arrived about a month ago.”
Carole set two teacups and spoons on the checkered tablecloth. “Yes, yes. Such a sweet girl. She came here after her family was killed, poor thing. I remember well,” Carole recalled. “How is she doing?”
“Oh, she struggled at first, still grieving for her home and family. George and I are all she’s got now. Even though it’s been hard for her to leave everything, she’s doing much better now. Especially since Sheriff Havoc came along and took an interest in her. Maybe you’ve seen them together at church and the dance.”
“Oh yes, I have noticed them. They’re a very handsome couple. I never thought I’d live to see the day that Sheriff Havoc would be as smitten with a young woman as he has been with your Cassie. The eligible young ladies all resigned their efforts of catching his attention long ago, believing he was partial to bachelorhood, given his job and all. I see everyone was mistaken. It just took the right girl to come along,” Carole speculated as she brought the cinnamon buns she had made that morning to the table. “Sherriff Havoc is such an upstanding man, and your niece is such a sweet young lady, it’s a joy to watch their love blossom.”
Mabel took a spoonful of sugar and slowly stirred it in her tea. “That’s the reason I’ve come to see you. Sheriff Havoc has asked Cassie to marry him.”
“Really! That is wonderful news! Congratulations, Mabel! How fantastic for them.” Carole sat down and poured herself a cup of tea and added cream and sugar. “Tell them congratulations for me. When is the glorious occasion taking place?” Carole asked as she took a sip of tea.
“They’re planning to be married this Saturday.”
Carole looked up mid sip, in astonishment.
“I know it’s short notice, but it’s what they want.” Mabel shrugged her shoulders and sipped her tea. “And who am I to disagree? When you’ve found love, why wait?”
“I agree, if it hadn’t been for my pa insisting on a six-month engagement, I would have been married to Gordon a month into our courtship. I know a short courtship is not always conventional, but out here in the West, nothing is. There’s work to be done. And it’s so much easier to do it together, as husband and wife,” Carole said, nodding in approval.
Mabel was encouraged by her friend’s response. “Do you think the church ladies would help me make them a Wedding Ring Quilt? If we got the women together from the Sewing Circle and anyone else who wants to, we could meet Thursday. We could have it quilted in a couple of days, I just know it,” Mabel said with enthusiasm.
“I’m sure everyone would want to help. Certainly, we could get it done in time. And we can help with anything else you need. Do you want me to buy the fabric? Or do you have some you want to use?” asked Carole.
“I was thinking of using a couple of my old dresses to make the blocks. You know, like a hug from her aunt every time she uses it,” Mabel said, grinning. “I can buy some backing from the store and we can cut out the blocks and piece them together on Thursday and quilt them Friday. I have an old worn-out blanket we can use for the batting. If we all work together, I think we could easily get it done in time for the wedding.”
