“That shows he’s honest, too. You take a little time and get to know him. If you suit, it will be better than meeting a stranger through that ad you sent. At least Michael can vouch for him. I don’t believe he’d have told Ella Grace that he’s a good man if he weren’t.”
Katie had to agree, and her mind wandered to what it would be like to marry Benjamin. He was handsome, friendly, and sweet. Was that enough for marriage? Maybe not, but it was enough for a start.
Miss Edie cleared her throat.
“Sorry, Miss Edie, I was woolgathering.” Katie suddenly paled and then blushed. “We have a problem. I have children to care for, and this is a house for girls. If I marry, where would I put my husband? I mean where would he live? We live?”
Miss Edie sat back and tapped her chin with her fingertip. “Certainly not in the main part of the house, but he’s a carpenter. I am sure he could add onto the house and give you privacy but still access to the house, so the girls would always have you near.”
Katie was going to ask what Miss Edie had in mind when Miss Ethel and Benjamin returned.
“It appears, our Mr. Hunter can repair everything the earthquake damaged and spotted a few extra repairs that need to be done. Julia just said supper was ready.” She turned and slipped her arm through Benjamin’s and headed for the dining room.
Miss Edie winked. “That’s a good sign. I think Ethel likes him.”
Katie was still trying to understand why Miss Ethel called Benjamin “our Mr. Hunter.” Did she approve that quickly? Maybe supper conversation would tell.
Supper conversation wasn’t much different than any other evening. The girls chattered on about their day, asking about the new ribbons at the mercantile, and a dozen other small inessential but seriously important topics for them. After the pie was eaten and coffee served, Miss Ethel said she, Miss Edie, and Julia would clear the table and do the dishes. She suggested Benjamin and Katie could spend some time on the front porch.
Benjamin escorted Katie to the front porch and sat on a rocker next to her. “Your guardians must trust me somewhat. They’re allowing us to sit out here alone.”
“No, they trust me, and we are not alone.” Katie turned her head and waved at Ivy, Rosie and Anna sitting by the window. The three girls waved back.
“I suppose in this house you’re never truly alone.”
Katie agreed. “I don’t know if I’d enjoy living in a quiet house. This is all I know.”
“Perhaps we could find somewhere a bit quieter if you agree to have dinner with me at the Inn or go on a picnic. I would be sure to have Michael and Ella Grace act as chaperones.”
“Either sounds lovely,” Katie answered.
“Maybe both.”
“Maybe,” Katie answered blushing.
Chapter Eight
Katie twirled in front of the mirror wishing silently that Benjamin would like her Sunday dress. The ivory dress with the pink flowers was her favorite, and she felt confident wearing it. Today she would enjoy a picnic with him. Dinner Friday night was enjoyable, but Michael and Benjamin spent most of the evening regaling Ella Grace and her with stories of their youth. Today she would spend time with just Benjamin. Alone. Her heart raced at the thought. She drew in a deep breath to calm herself. She couldn’t let her growing feelings get in the way of church services. Attending services first and then a picnic would make for a lovely day. Keeping her mind on Pastor James’ sermon and not Benjamin would be difficult, but it must be done or at least given Katie’s best effort.
~ * ~
Benjamin’s tie was perfect and there were no wrinkles in his Sunday suit. His white shirt was new, and his boots were polished. He was as ready as he could be to attend his first service in Silverpines and have a picnic with Katie. He slid into the pew next to Michael and leaned over to whisper to Ella Grace and asked if Katie would be joining them.
Ella Grace smiled and said, “She’ll be here soon. You’ll know it when she does arrive, and she’ll be sitting with our guardians and sisters. It’s too soon for her to sit with you in church.”
Benjamin knew that, but he hoped Katie would sit with Ella Grace and be closer to him. He turned when he heard several people enter the church. He saw Miss Edie and Miss Ethel leading the five younger girls with Katie following carrying one of the infants. Her sister, Maude, who he met on Friday when he called for Katie before taking her to dinner was next carrying the second infant and a young lady he didn’t know but assumed was Cindy Lou brought up the rear of the small group. He was surprised at how quickly and quietly they filled up the second pew. They weren’t giggling or fidgeting. Katie was raised well and would make an excellent mother. A mother? Where did that thought come from? Was his head coming to terms with what his heart already knew?
Benjamin did his best to concentrate on Pastor James’ sermon but his mind kept drifting to Katie. He would be happy to know Katie was dealing with the same difficulty. Before either knew it, services were over, and Benjamin made his way to the door following Michael and Ella Grace. He was introduced to Pastor James and his wife, Abby. Both greeted him and welcomed him to Silverpines. Benjamin had yet to meet anyone unfriendly in town and he knew he could make a happy life here.
When he stepped away from the pastor and his wife, Julia one of Katie’s sisters approached him. She spoke quickly, “Cindy Lou is going to carry one
