Alice: Bride of Rhode Island (American Mail-Order Bride 13) (12 page)

Chapter Twenty-Five

J
ames arrived at the hospital in a panic.

He rushed to a woman sitting at a desk. “My wife is here—Alice Martel.”

The woman scanned a paper on a clipboard. When she didn’t respond immediately, James added, “Alice Endicott.”

“Oh yes, here she is. She’s in room 211, on the second floor.” She pointed down the austere hallway. “Take the stairs, then make a right.”

He rushed to the second floor, passing nurses in long white aprons. Locating the room, he entered. Alice lay in a bed, her head slightly elevated and her eyes closed. Her blonde hair spilled around her pillow in disarray, and her ashen pallor caused his heart to skip a beat.

A nurse entered from behind. “Pardon me, sir. May I help you?”

James stepped aside and took a deep breath. “Yes. This is my wife. How is she?”

“She’s doing better. It took a while to warm her up.” The woman approached Alice and tucked a blanket beneath his wife’s chin.

James came to her bedside. “What happened?”

“The report says that she fell into the harbor. A fisherman found her, which likely saved her life.”

Anger surged through James. “How in the hell did she fall into the water?” He glanced up and saw the shock on the woman’s face. “My apologies.”

The young nurse gave a curt nod. “I understand.” She paused. “The fisherman reported that a vagrant assaulted her, and she was pushed.”

Shocked, James shifted his attention back to his wife. “Was the man found?”

“Unfortunately, no. You can stay as long as you wish. It would do well for her to have someone near who loves her.” She gave a sympathetic smile and left them alone.

James retrieved a wooden chair from the corner of the room and set it beside the bed. He laid a hand on Alice, buried beneath a pile of blankets. Trying to steady himself as his heart pounded relentlessly, he gave silent thanks to God that she lived.

When the letter had arrived, addressed to Daniel Endicott, informing him that Alice was in the hospital, James hadn’t waited for the man to gather himself. He’d foregone a carriage and run the several blocks to the hospital directly, his mind considering every possible outcome.

One thing had become clear. He was desperate not to lose Alice. Everything else had fallen to the wayside.

The door to Alice’s room opened, and James knew it was Daniel.

“How is she?” Endicott asked.

James kept his focus on Alice. “She’s alive.”

Daniel came to the opposite side of the bed, his usual arrogant demeanor gone, the jowls under his cheeks more prominent than usual. “What on earth happened to her?”

“She was pushed into the harbor.” James didn’t try to hide the seething anger in his voice.

“By whom?” Daniel asked, clearly stunned.

James watched the elder man closely. “The report states it was a vagrant, but such men are easily persuaded with the right incentive.”

Daniel clamped his mouth shut and narrowed his eyes. “Are you insinuating that I’m responsible for this?”

“Tomorrow is Alice’s birthday, and she’ll inherit Menhaden Fishing.”

“How do you know that?”

James stood. “Perhaps trusting William Evans was your downfall.”

Daniel swore under his breath.

“It would be a lot easier if you got rid of her,” James continued.

“You need to stop right there, young man. I would never harm Alice.”

“But you would force her to marry a man she doesn’t love?”

Daniel’s nostrils flared as he inhaled and exhaled. “I was trying to do what was best for her. And yes, I want to keep Menhaden Fishing.”

“It’s not your company.”

Daniel sighed. “Yes, it is. I’m sorry about your father, but business is business. He was man enough to understand that. You should be too.” He paused. “That’s it, isn’t it? That’s why you married Alice—to get your father’s company back. And you dare to lecture me about right and wrong.”

James clenched his jaw so hard he flinched from the pain. “Perhaps, in the beginning, that was my intention. You hurt my family, so I returned the favor.”

Alice moved, and when James glanced down at her, he saw her eyes wide open. He knew, without a doubt, that she’d heard the last words from his mouth.

Her gray face and colorless lips squeezed his chest, but her words effectively sucked the life from him. “I want a divorce.”

Chapter Twenty-Six

F
atigue overwhelmed Alice, and now despair. When she awoke to hear James’ words—
you hurt my family, so I returned the favor
—it was a blow she had anticipated, but nevertheless, the world spun away from her with a stunning finality. Her heart was now well and truly broken.

“You don’t mean this.”

She refused to acknowledge the edge in his voice. “I don’t want to do this anymore, James,” she whispered. “I’m sorry for what happened to your family, but I’m done being used by you.” She closed her eyes to shut him out.

“Alice, you don’t understand.” His voice broke. “I love you.”

She knew they were empty words. Opening her eyes, she accused, “How dare you say that. I just want you to go.”

“This is too much for her, James,” Daniel cut in. “You need to let her rest.”

Distress played across James’ handsome face. He appeared haggard and half-dressed with his shirt unbuttoned near the neckline and no tie. Was that remorse in his eyes? A part of her wanted to believe it, but still, it wasn’t enough.

“Fine, I’ll go,” James conceded. “But this isn’t over. You’re my wife, Alice. I won’t let you go that easily.”

Alice didn’t have the strength to respond.

Once James left the room, tears streamed down her face.

“It’ll be fine,” Daniel said, gently patting her shoulder. “I’ll take care of everything.”

* * * *

Alice awoke in the afternoon to find her grandmother sitting beside her.

Edith smiled. “I hope you don’t mind that I came.”

“No.” Alice all but croaked, her throat parched and scratchy. “How long have you been here?”

“A few hours. I saw Daniel Endicott and told him I would stay with you so he could leave. How are you feeling?”

“Very tired.”

“Do you remember what happened?”

Alice tried to recall the incidents of the previous day, but her mind felt shrouded in fog. “Did I die?”

Her grandmother faltered. “The nurse said that you may have been gone for a short time.”

Alice stared up at the ceiling, trying to remember when the freezing ocean had swallowed her up. “How did I get pulled from the water?”

“A fisherman saw you. Thank the good Lord.” Edith paused. “I spoke with Daniel, and he told me of your circumstances, about you ending your marriage. I’m sorry I was never able to meet your husband. I wanted to offer you a place in my home, at least for now. I could look out for you. I realize your stepfather has staff that could do that for you, but I’m your family and I’d like to help.”

The offer warmed a tiny portion of Alice’s heart, and she was grateful for the gesture. She pulled her arm from beneath the covers and grasped her grandmother’s hand. “Thank you. I think I would like that.”

Edith handed her a book. “I wanted to give you this. It belonged to Gavin and was a favorite of his. I thought you might like to have it.”

Alice gazed at a well-worn copy of poetry by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Moved by the gift, Alice said softly, “He was Papa’s favorite.”

“Yes. I’m not sure how I ended up with it, but after your visit, I found a trunk filled with Gavin’s things and this was inside.”

Alice opened the book to an earmarked page.

It is foolish to pretend that one is fully recovered from a disappointed passion. Such wounds always leave a scar.

It was as if her father was in the room with her, offering her support and a shoulder to cry upon.

Her soul whispered her heartbreak...
James
...

* * * *

That evening, Alice awoke from yet another long slumber. She wished she could sleep forever. At least, then, she didn’t have to experience the aching emptiness in her heart over James’ betrayal.

She pushed herself upright and reached for a glass of water on the nightstand when someone knocked at the door. Lillie Jenkins appeared.

“Are you taking visitors?” she asked.

Alice touched her hair self-consciously. “Of course, but I must look a fright.”

Lillie waved her off, came forward and hugged her.

Emotion overtook Alice, and she clung to the woman, who eased herself to sit on the edge of the bed.

“Oh, now, now,” Lillie crooned. “You’re safe.”

Embarrassed by her outburst, Alice released Lillie and ducked her head, but she couldn’t stifle the tears that welled in her eyes.

Lillie pulled a handkerchief from her reticule and dabbed it to the corner of Alice’s eye. “It’s a miracle that you survived, but I knew that you were strong.
You
just don’t know it yet.”

“Lillie, it’s all a mess. James admitted that he married me to hurt my stepfather, that he meant to take my inheritance from me.”

Lillie became serious. “Did he now?” she murmured.

“Daniel wants me to divorce him, and I agreed. I told James, but he said he loves me. And now I’m so confused.” The sobs poured forth, and she couldn’t rein them in. Lillie handed her the kerchief. “Daniel is sending someone here tonight with the papers.”

Lillie placed a palm against Alice’s cheek. “Oh my dear, it will be fine. Men can be so obtuse and narrow-minded when they think they know the right plan to follow.” Lillie wiped at a stray tear with her thumb and smiled. “Do you love him, Alice?”

“With all my heart.”

“Then don’t give up so easily.”

“But I’m an Endicott, if only by marriage, but one nonetheless. I understand that it would be difficult for James to spend his life tied to a family he despises.”

“That’s for James to decide.”

Alice met Lillie’s stern gaze. She was right. It was time for Alice to determine what kind of life she would lead. And she wanted it with James.

“Have you and James consummated your marriage yet?” Lillie asked.

Alice shook her head.

“Good.” Lillie grinned. “James doesn’t deserve the easy road with you. But more importantly, my lawyer can use that loophole to help you with the ownership of Menhaden Fishing. Listen to me. Don’t sign those papers that Daniel sends over just yet. Isn’t your birthday tomorrow?”

“Yes.”

“I think a party is in order. Will you let me plan it?”

Alice took a deep breath and nodded, an upwelling of hope suffusing her body clear down to her toes.

Chapter Twenty-Seven

I
n his room at the Ocean House Hotel, James dressed in his finest suit. He had every intention of heading to Daniel Endicott’s estate once this dinner with Lillie was finished. She’d insisted that he meet her in the dining room of the hotel. He was really of no mind for small talk, with Alice forever holding court in his thoughts.

He’d botched it up well with her. He buttoned his shirt, impatience clamoring at him.

‘I want a divorce.’

Those were the very words he’d planned to say to her when this was all said and done, but she’d beaten him to it. When he thought he’d lost her he knew he’d been blind to the true gift handed to him when Frank brought her to Tiverton from Boston.

He loved her, and now he’d lost her.

Shrugging into his jacket, he really couldn’t blame her.

He should’ve told her the truth from the start, but if he had it was likely she wouldn’t have stayed with him. He would never have had the chance to come to know her, to appreciate her sweet innocence and surprising fortitude.

He settled a burgundy ascot tie below his chin.

The divorce papers arrived last night, but he refused to sign them.

With his attire in order, he paused to scan the room. It was the same one he’d shared with Alice a few weeks ago, before she decided to move back in with her stepfather. Alice had been willing to accept her role as his wife, but he’d kept her at bay, like a fool. If he could turn back time, he’d lock himself up in this room with her and make love to his wife until the New Year rang in. Damn him for letting that opportunity slip through his fingers.

Alice was the best that life had to offer. With a heavy heart, James acknowledged he could never do better. She was an Endicott, that was true, but deep down she was simply herself. And the woman he loved with all his heart.

* * * *

James followed the waiter to a room at the rear of the hotel restaurant. It was quiet on this Christmas Eve, with only a handful of guests enjoying a meal. He passed a large tree festively adorned with red ribbons, pinecones, and porcelain dolls. James’ hand went to his jacket pocket, ascertaining the gift for Alice was still there. One way or another, he meant to give it to her this evening—a combined birthday and Christmas gift.

The waiter halted and stepped aside, indicating James to enter. James nodded to the man and, expecting to see Lillie, he froze when his gaze locked on Alice.

She wore an ocean blue gown, simple in construction, with her hair pinned and adorned with tiny white flowers. He’d always liked her this way—natural and basic. She was a beautiful girl and would grow to be an exquisite woman; she didn’t require any fancy accoutrements. Her azure eyes held him spellbound, and he couldn’t find any words.

“James, I’m so glad you could come,” Lillie said as she approached him.

A swift glance around the room showed the presence of Daniel Endicott and two elderly women he didn’t recognize, along with a man he knew to be Lillie’s attorney.

“We’re celebrating Alice’s twenty-first birthday,” Lillie continued, looping her arm around his. “Please come in and have a seat. We’ve been waiting for you.”

Still stunned by Alice’s willingness to share company with him, he looked at Lillie, the fog of confusion slowly lifting. “What’s going on?”

Dressed in a green and red gown, Lillie guided him to a seat at the round table. “Everyone who is important to Alice is in this room. You’re acquainted with Daniel, of course.”

Endicott scowled in his direction.

“This is Vera McAdams, a dear family friend,” Lillie continued.

James took the delicate hand of the older woman and nodded.

Lillie turned to the remaining guest. “And this is Edith Harrington, Alice’s grandmother.”

“I’m please to meet you, ma’am,” he said. “I’m sorry it couldn’t have been sooner.”

The woman’s cool response made him think he had one foot out the door.

“Everyone, please have a seat,” Lillie said.

Alice came to sit beside him, and James quickly pulled her chair for her.

He tugged at his collar in an attempt to cool the sweat forming at the base of his neck. Was this to be some final farewell? A giant send-off before Alice cut him loose permanently?

He took his seat and leaned toward her. “You look beautiful tonight. And a happy birthday to you.”

“Thank you.” She flashed him a look of apprehension and longing.

He wished they were alone so he could say more.

“You look well, Alice,” Daniel said from across the table, “but you didn’t respond to my inquiry. I must demand to know why you haven’t signed those papers.” His eyes darted from Alice to James. “Either of you.”

James held his breath. Alice hadn’t signed the divorce papers? Dare he hope?

“All in good time, Daniel,” Lillie interceded.

James turned to Alice. “Aren’t you at the Endicott mansion?”

“No,” Alice answered. “My grandmother has been gracious enough to let me stay with her.”

“It’s no trouble,” Edith said. “You can live with me as long as you like.”

The news was both a boon and a concern. James was happy that Alice had finally left Daniel’s home, but he didn’t like the implication that she planned to remain at her grandmother’s house for an extended time.

Lillie took a seat beside James and indicated the man to her left. “This is Henry Tavish. He’s my lawyer.”

James eyed the man with suspicion. “Yes, I know.”

Two waiters entered and served port to each guest; when they waited upon James, he quietly asked for a bourbon.

As the drink was delivered, Lillie arched a brow. “Fortification already?”

James savored the smooth liquor as it slid down his throat, immediately loosening tension in his limbs. “What the devil are you up to?” he asked under his breath.

Lillie planted a beatific smile on her lips and turned to her attorney.

Across the table, Daniel watched James with irritation smoldering in his gaze. James supposed the man thought James had something up his sleeve. He had to wonder the same about Daniel.

James downed the remaining liquid in his glass and signaled the waiter for another. He glanced at Alice, who watched him.

“Aren’t you having a good time?” she asked.

The alcohol relaxed his tongue. “The last time we spoke, you demanded a divorce. I’m just a little confused as to why I’m here.”

Alice shifted her attention to the bowl of soup placed before her. “Lillie thought you would like to be in attendance.”

James watched his wife, and his heart twisted. “What I’d really like is to be alone with you.”

Her eyes locked with his. The presence of the others fell away, and a connection—raw and wild and authentic—flared between them. He sank into her blue eyes, their depths smoldering with what he hoped was a need as fierce as his own. The creamy hue of her skin emphasized the lushness of her lips. After her near-drowning in the harbor, his heart had all but stopped at the ashen pallor of her skin.

His gaze dropped to her mouth, and he wished to God that he could kiss her.

“Mr. Martel,” Vera McAdams inquired, “I understand you run a successful fishing business in Tiverton.”

James reluctantly dragged his focus away from Alice. “I do well enough, thank you. How is it that you know Alice?”

“I run a dress shop. Alice and her mother were kind enough to support me when I started my business after my husband passed.”

“It must run in the family,” James replied. “Several years ago Alice’s father, Gavin Harrington, offered to assist my father when his business was struggling.” He flicked a glance to Daniel. “But some men don’t believe in being honorable.”

“Yes, I know the story,” Mrs. McAdams added quickly.

“You would equate honor with bad business decisions,” Daniel said, sitting back to let the waiter clear the soup and place a clean plate before him.

“Sometimes
honor
is more important in the scheme of the world,” James said, his temper rising swiftly.

“Now gentlemen,” Lillie chimed in, “we’re here to celebrate dear Alice’s birthday. Let’s keep it civil.”

The waiters brought a platter of roast beef and mashed potatoes, thick gravy, a dish of fresh corn in melted butter, and a steaming bowl of baked apples. James consumed the meal, all the while aware of Alice beside him as she chatted quietly with Mrs. McAdams.

Once dinner was complete and the table cleared, Lillie stood. “And now it’s time to celebrate Alice’s birthday on this festive Christmas Eve.” She nodded and a waiter signaled for another to enter. A large two-tiered cake covered in ivory frosting and red roses was placed on the table. Everyone stood and clapped.

Alice’s face turned crimson. “Thank you, everyone. I know that circumstances haven’t always been the best, so I appreciate that you all could be here.”

“It’s our pleasure,” Vera replied.

“Yes, Alice, I’m so happy for you,” Edith Harrington said.

Daniel gave a slight nod of acknowledgement. “Happy birthday, Alice.”

James raised his glass of port. “To Alice.” Everyone did the same. He had many more words he wanted to say, but held back.

A round of, “Here, here,” was said.

“Please sit,” Lillie instructed. The waiter took the cake to a side table, cut several slices, and distributed the dessert plates to Alice and her guests.

“Now that we’re nearing the end of this lovely dinner,” Lillie continued, “it’s time for Alice’s gifts. I hope you all won’t mind if I go first. Alice’s mother bequeathed to her an exciting business venture to be acquired on her twenty-first birthday—Alice has inherited ownership of Menhaden Fishing, located in Tiverton.”

James frowned.
What the devil?

Why was Lillie involved with this?

“What are you talking about?” Daniel demanded.

“It’s no use denying it or keeping it a secret,” Lillie chided. “Mr. Tavish here has all the particulars.”

“He’s got nothing,” Daniel argued.

“On the contrary, Mr. Endicott,” Henry Tavish rebutted, retrieving a stack of papers from his leather briefcase. “Hazel Harrington Endicott filed the paperwork, which is signed by you, with a city clerk. I’ll admit, it took some searching to locate it, but it’s valid. You must uphold the terms of the agreement or be in breach of contract.” Tavish hurriedly placed spectacles on his nose and scanned the document. “Yes, it’s all right here. Ms. Endicott is now the owner of Menhaden Fishing.”

Daniel stood, his face bulging in anger. “How dare you meddle in my family’s business.”

James bolted to his feet. “You can direct any complaints you have to
me
. I’m still her husband, and as such, I own the fishery now.”

“The day’s not over yet,” Daniel spat out. “You
will
sign those divorce papers. It’s what Alice wanted, and as you believe yourself to be so honorable, such a man would abide by the lady’s wishes.”

“I must interrupt.” Lillie’s calm voice belied the order beneath it. “Please sit down, gentlemen.”

Reluctantly James took his chair. Alice, Vera and Edith sat rigid and quiet as if corseted by the heavy tension in the room.

Daniel didn’t hide a sneer as he finally resumed his seat.

“Actually, Menhaden Fishing
doesn’t
belong to you, James,” Lillie said.

Surprised, he glanced up at her.

“Forgive my bluntness, but your marriage has remained unconsummated, and as such, the union can’t be considered fully legal. Therefore, Alice can take possession of her inheritance directly. Mr. Tavish has prepared the proper documentation on her behalf.”

Tavish’s head bobbed in agreement, blushing from Lillie’s bold statement.

Stunned, James swung his gaze to his wife. Alice met his eyes, no sign of meekness or uncertainty present. She’d managed to take Menhaden Fishing from both him and Daniel. While he couldn’t deny the sting from her subterfuge, he couldn’t help but admire her initiative. The woman had gumption, just as he'd suspected all along.

A smile graced his lips. “Well played, Alice.”