The Bachelor's Bride

Chapter 33-Etta

The note that Jack had given me from Meredith shook in my hand as I smoothed out the edges. I wasn't sure if my friend was going to forgive me or completely cut off our relationship, but I hoped it was the latter. And this note would tell me everything.

I let out a shaky breath and began to read Meredith's distinguishable loopy handwriting.

Etta,

I know I hurt you deeply with my words. But know that I didn't mean anything I said against you. You're still my best friend and sister and I will always wish you the best.

I left to make a better life for myself and my child. John has offered me a chance to redeem my mistakes, and I couldn't turn that down. I need a safe place to raise my child, and I can't do that here, while my child's grandfather will scorn and hate them forever because of me.

I hope we can meet again one day under better circumstances and I wish you the best.

Your Friend,
Meredith Muller Foster

I swiped my wet cheeks and followed the note carefully, placing it in my dresser drawer for safe keeping.

I wished Meredith would have left me an address to write to, so that I could send my apologies and love, but she had left nothing for me but a few consoling words and a simple goodbye. It seemed I wouldn't be able to contact her ever again. But somehow, I still felt at peace, even if I was a little sad. I knew that she had made the best choice for her family and I knew my brother would take care of them both.

"You read my sister's note?" I jumped slightly at my husband's voice.

I nodded, "I did."

He didn't ask me what the note contained, which I appreciated. Those words were for me and me alone.

"She was really sorry about what she said." He explained, worry evident in his eyes.

"I know she was." I smiled, joining him on the bed. I handed Jack my hair brush. "Will you braid my hair?"

"Sure, love. Come here." He patted the spot in front of him.

I sat, crossing my legs and relishing the feel of his hands in my hair. He carefully separated it into sections, twisting and plaiting the hair into a long braid. He tied it off with a ribbon and kissed my cheek, "There."

"Thank you." I accepted his kisses.

He quirked an eyebrow, a smirk on his face as he leaned towards me, his lips hovering over mine, and I tilted my head up to meet his kiss.

A knock sounded on the door and Winnie's quivered on the other side, "Etta?"

Jack groaned quietly, pecking my lips quickly, before letting me go. I hurried to the door and inched it open, peeking out to see Winnie shivering from the cold draft that was drifting through the hall. Even with the season nearing summer, it still got unbelievably cold at night.

"Here, get out of the cold." I let her into our room. I dug around in my drawers and gave her a pair of wool stockings. "Put these on before you catch a cold, silly girl."

Winnie gladly complied. When she was finally settled on the stool near the vanity, she sighed, "John's gone, isn't he."

It wasn't a question. She knew what happened and I nodded to confirm it, "He left with Meredith."

"Will he be back?" She sniffled, and I noticed there were tears glistening down her cheeks like a quiet waterfall.

I wrapped my arms tightly around her, sharing a look with Jack, "I'm sure he will. I came back, didn't I?"

"Yeah." She sniffled again, taking a shaky breath. "Can I stay with you tonight?"

"Yeah, want me to come to your room?" I asked gently. She nodded against my chest. "Alright, you go on ahead and I'll be there in a minute."

"Okay." Was her quiet reply before scurrying off.

Jack approached me after she was gone, tucking a loose tendril behind my ear. "I'll have to sleep by myself?"

I patted his cheek and smirked, "Sisters before misters, sorry."

"But I want you beside me." He tugged my hips closer to him, making my breath hitch.

"You'll be fine." I rolled my eyes, ignoring how hard my heart was pounding in my chest.

Jack lifted my face up towards him and kissed me deeply. He pulled away, sounding as breathless as I felt, "Fine, but only for tonight."

"Okay," I whispered, prying myself out of his arms.

He pulled me back for one last kiss, chuckling as I stumbled away. I shook my head at him and hurried from the room before he could convince me to stay.

I slipped quietly down the hall and into my sister's room. She was already curled up under her quilt, waiting for me. I climbed under the soft covers and laid down next to her, pulling her close.

"Why did John leave us? Does he not love us anymore?" Winnie asked.

"Shhh." I hushed her. "He loves us very much, but he cares for Meredith as well and wanted to make her happy. He will always keep a spot in his heart for his sisters, though. Just as I did for you."

"I hope he comes back." She yawned, snuggling up against me.

"Me too." I agreed, my sleepy eyes closing. "Goodnight, Winifred."

"Goodnight." She whispered to me.

A/N
Also, this is a total coincidence, but I realized I named Etta's sister Winifred and their last name is Foster. Winifred Foster. Tuck Everlasting, anyone?

Annnyyywwaayyyss...

Shout outs for this chapter belong to:
@lenahbae
@TeanoAngelita
@SamanthaEvans118
@NiceToCU
@ZukiswaMbekwa0
@tristiansmommy

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As Always
Stay Awesome Possums
Rosanna🌵🌺🌸