Bid For Freedom

Chapter 44

Dani worked very closely with Rosa to make sure nothing was missing from their Christmas celebration. Tiny candles were fastened around the tree. The table was set with the finest china. They'd even made gifts for their guests. She glanced over her shoulder as Rosa plopped down at the table and wiped her brow.

"Whew. I don't know when I've ever cooked such a meal."

Dani giggled. "Me too. But I need everything perfect, for Caleb's sake."

"That was some quick thinkin' you pulled."

Dani smiled and nodded. "Yeah."

"Your southern belle routine is quite convincing."

Dani reddened as she stirred the soup.

"It's not true, though, is it," Rosa pressed.

She shook her head. "I've never been a belle. Not til I met Caleb. Everything changed when I met Caleb."

"That boy does change things for the better, even if he doesn't realize it." Rosa stepped beside her and took the spoon she was holding. "I've had the boys pour you a bath in your room. Go get ready for this party."

Dani's eyes widened. "I don't know what to wear."

"Darlin', I set out the most striking green dress. You'll look stunning in it. I'll be in in a bit to help with your hair."

Dani paused by the door. "Are you sure you don't need me?"

Rosa waved as she tasted the soup. "I can manage."

Dani languished in the steaming tub, sighing deeply as the water melted away the stress from the past several days. She glanced over her shoulder as the door creaked open.

Caleb met her eyes for a moment as he stepped into the room. "I, uh. I just came to get my clothes. Rosa said we'd be eating soon."

Dani smiled as his adam's apple bobbed. "Would you mind pouring the water for my hair?"

"I, uh. Sure." He cleared his throat.

Dani leaned forward, waiting for the water. Instead, Caleb's trembling fingers traced several lines on her back. He sighed. She heard the clank of the pitcher as he picked it up then the warmth as the water trickled over her hair, washing away the soap.

"Caleb, what are you doing in here? You need to be getting ready. Shoo. I'll take over in here."

"Yes'm."

The latch clicked as he left the room.

"I swear, with the look in that boy's eye, he had no intention of ever making it to that party," she tsked.

Dani smothered her laughter as Rosa continued her tirade. She dried off and looked at the dress Rosa had spread across the bed. "Where did this come from?"

Rosa shrugged. "Twas in one of your trunks."

Dani slipped into the taffeta gown. She stood in front of the mirror turning this way and that as Rosa did up the row of tiny buttons in the back. Rosa fitted a ribbon around her neck, then wove a matching ribbon through her curls.

"Perfect. My dear, you are beautiful."

Dani studied the reflection, unsure that it could be her. She blinked several times in disbelief.

"Now some color for your lips." Rosa dabbed on a cream of crushed rose petals. "Press them together. Perfect. Go greet your guests. I know Sam is dying to see you all dolled up."

Dani smiled and headed to the parlor. She lit the lights on the tree and stood near the fireplace, waiting for the men to arrive.

Jeremy opened the front door and stepped inside, knocking the snow from his boots. He stopped when he saw her. David pushed past. "Why'd ya stop. Whoa. Miss Dani. You're an angel."