Love, Surprising

Chapter 15: Caroline

June 1st 1786

Independence, Virginia 

I couldn't fall asleep that night. All I could think about was Timothy. He came to get me! He truly cares! I rolled onto my side in the bed and pillowed a fist under my cheek. He'd held me so tenderly as I cried, whispering endearing words into my ears.

'Shh, shh, It's alright sweetheart.' Timothy's voice echoed through my head. How I wished to be in his arms again and away from Edward. Edward. I have to marry him tomorrow, I remembered. No, Timothy is going to get me out. He promised, I mentally assured myself, then rolled over to lay on my back. I worried and prayed all night. Dawn arose and I hadn't slept a wink. Groaning, I crawled out of bed and pulled on the dress I'd been wearing when Edward brought me here three days ago. Tiffany had washed it for me and now the fabric smelled of lilac soap. The pleasant aroma enveloped me as I dressed. I peered into a hand mirror. My face looked haggard, dark circles beneath my eyes. I sighed. Oh well. I don't care to like nice for Edward anyway. Setting the mirror down, I headed downstairs to eat breakfast.

"Good morning, lovely." Edward greeted me upon my arrival to the dining room. He was sipping a cup of tea and reading the newspaper. I remained silent and took a seat next to Edward. He set his teacup down. "It does not appear that you slept well. Something troubling you?" Edward asked, eyes probing my face.

"No, nothing," I muttered.

"Well, the servants will make sure that you look beautiful for the wedding, don't you worry," Edward declared. I'm not worried, I thought. Because I'm not going to be here for the wedding. Edward snapped his fingers at the kitchen doors. Hearing their master's call, a trail of servants brought out the breakfast dishes. We were served hot cornmeal mush with milk and honey, stewed peaches, bread with butter and strawberry preserves, and of course, tea. I studied Edward while he ate. I wonder what he's thinking about right now? Is he planning what we're going to do after the wedding? I shuddered. I hope not. I stirred my mush in a circle with my spoon. Why did he choose me anyway? What makes me so special? I decided to ask him.

"Edward? I have a question." Edward looked up at me and sat his spoon down.

"What is it?" His eyes acquired a defensive gleam.

"I was just wondering, why me? Why did you choose me for your bride?" I asked Edward. He sat and pondered for a minute.

"There are a few reasons. For starters, the first time I laid eyes on you, I couldn't look away. You are a rare beauty Caroline and I do so love beauty. I was visiting Abingdon on a business trip and I noticed you exiting a store downtown. I wondered, who is that bewitching young woman? Never in my life had I seen such beauty. So I set to work discovering your name. I started by visiting the store you'd just left. I visited with the proprietor, who turned out to be your father. He invited me back for the town Fourth of July picnic to be celebrated in two weeks' time. How could I resist such an offer? The two weeks passed quickly and soon I'd met you face to face. That day solidified my thoughts. I must have you for my bride." Edward stopped and took a sip of his tea.

"That's only one reason. What other reasons?" I pressed Edward, willing him to speak. He crossed his hands.

"Well another would be connections. Your father owns a successful business in Abington. This marriage will boost not only your father's status, but would help me secure another trading link. More money, who could argue with that?" Edward shrugged, daring me to disagree with him.

"Anything else?" I asked, though secretly I hoped that was all.

"Yes, there is one more thing. I enjoy torturing people." My breath caught in my throat. Oh Timothy where are you?