The Lumberjack's Bride by Jean Kincaid Read Free Book Online Page B

I’m saying. After I make enough money to replace what he paid, I’ll tell him what I’m doing. Then, if he doesn’t want me to continue working, I’ll quit.”
    Maggie slapped the table and laughed. “Okay gal, I’ll help you. As far as those mule heads in camp know, I’m doing their laundry and none will be the wiser.” She stood to go.
    â€œThanks, Maggie.” Julianne hugged her new friend close. “I promise I’ll let Caleb in on our little secret as soon as I can.”
    The older woman seemed uncomfortable with the hug, but didn’t push her away. “Just be sure that you do. I don’t like deceiving, Caleb. He’s a good man.”
    * * *
    Hours later, Caleb wondered what he’d find when he returned home. Would his new wife cower from him? Lord, please let her learn not to fear me.
    He opened the door a crack. “Is that beef stew I smell?” A quick glance took in the spotless cabin and Julianne standing at the stove with a big ladle in one hand, Jonathan cradled in her other arm.
    â€œIt’s about ready. Have you washed up?” Julianne stirred the contents of the big pot.
    â€œSure did. Here, let me take this little fellow off your hands.” Caleb walked across the room and took the baby. He sat down in his chair and really looked at the child.
    Jonathan had a wide forehead, aqua-colored eyes and a round face. “He looks like Estelle.”
    Julianne dished up two bowls of stew and set them on the table. “He sure is sweet.” She turned to the counter behind her and placed fresh bread on the table.
    â€œThat he is.” Caleb watched the baby’s eyes slowly shut. “I’m going to lay him down, and then we can eat.”
    He carried the baby into Julianne’s bedroom, noticing the neatly made bed and that her things had been put away. A feeling of contentment made him sigh. The baby was well taken care of, the house clean, and dinner smelled delicious. It was what every married man wanted when he came home from a hard day’s work.
    Caleb returned and took a seat at the table. She surprised him by asking, “Will you say grace, please?”
    As he prayed aloud over the meal, he silently prayed for Julianne.
    â€œLord, thank you for this food and the nourishment for our bodies.”
    And thank you for Julianne.
    â€œAnd, bless the hands that have prepared it.”
    Lord, bless my wife and help her to no longer fear me.
    â€œKeep us safe, in Jesus’ name. Amen.”
    Caleb raised his head and met her clear blue eyes.
    She smiled, and an expression of satisfaction showed in her eyes. Was she thankful she’d married him? He hoped so.
    Julianne fiddled with her ring. “Thank you.”
    He felt her gaze upon him as he took a bite of the cornbread. Sweetness coated his tongue. Her mama must have taught her that the way to a man’s heart was through his stomach.
    â€œThis is great.” He chewed and swallowed the tasty treat.
    â€œThank you.” She twisted the ring again then exclaimed in dismay. “Oh, I forgot your coffee.”
    She was up in a flash. Julianne grabbed the coffee and cup all in one action. Caleb watched her pour the hot liquid before returning the pot to the back of the stove.
    As soon as she was seated again he asked her. “Do you know what that ring stands for, Julianne?”
    She looked at the ring in question. “It means I’m your wife.”
    He set his spoon on the table and reached across to capture her hand. Caleb turned the ring watching the gold reflect the sunlight that streamed through the kitchen window. “Yes, it does. What else does it mean to you?”
    She tugged on her hand but Caleb refused to release her. “It means I’m yours. I clean the house, cook the meals, and watch after Jonathan.”
    â€œAnything else?” He raised his head and searched her face.
    â€œIt means I am to do anything you ask