The Allure Of Love (Sample)

Chapter 29

Chapter 30

Mr. Weathers POV

I was tired. Very tired. I had been gone all day, but this was the first night I didn’t come home. I had a feeling my wife suspected I lost my job, but she didn't say anything. I had been handling stocks for over fifteen years at my job when I got fired. I couldn't face my family. This is why I am sitting in a gambling house in the slums of downtown New York trying to win back the 40,000 I just lost.

I took a sip of my drink. I leaned back in my chair staring at the man before me. I began to sweat heavily. The man’s name was Jack. He was in his mid forties and was a large man. He was tall, hefty, and a wicked good gambler.

I had a full house. I could possibly win back all my money. I kept my poker face strong though.  Our good family named was the only thing that kept the bank from throwing us out of our home. I had no chips left.

"Are you folding Weathers or are you going to offer me something?”

My head began to spin I had just finished off my eighth scotch. “I will offer you one of my warm bloods that are at least worth the five thousand you put up.”

"I have no use for warm bloods. We ain't all well bred like you. I’ve has been looking for a spicy young wife to take me back to California though. You’ve given me a nice amount to get started on.”

I was confident I wouldn't lose, and even so we couldn't go bankrupt. "I'll offer you my nineteen year old daughter. Juliana is her name; she's definitely spicy and rebellious."

We laid down our cards. My face fell. It was a royal flush. Impossible. It was such a rare occurrence!  My head was spinning wildly. I steadied myself with the table.

"I'll follow you home to pick up my bride."

I jumped up and shoved him against the wall. "No.”

A bunch of men pulled me back and Jack shoved a knife in my face.

"I said I will follow you home to pick up my bride.”

As I rode home I remembered the day Juliana was born. Unlike Elizabeth, Juliana was causing a difficult delivery. I was pacing in the parlor, trying not to listen to the distinct moans and cries of my dear wife. Finally all went silent and a strong cry of a baby could be heard. Even though it was a terrible breach of custom I sprinted up the stairs.

The midwife handed me my baby girl. Juliana looked up at me with those bright green eyes. She almost challenged me, with that smirk of hers. I couldn't help but to grin. She grew up and never stopped defying me. You would think that my Elizabeth was the best daughter a family could dream for, but Juliana re kindled a fire deep set in my bones. She made me remember what it was like to be hot tempered and have dreams. Tonight though I failed her. That little girl was no longer a baby

She rarely needs me, but when she did I ruined her life. I didn't protect the one thing dear and precious to my heart.