TUESDAY TALES - LEAF

             Welcome! This week we still have more from "Josiah's Destiny", but this chapter is about Sam Chesney. Since "Josiah's Destiny" is the last book in this series, it will include chapters about the main characters from the earlier books. This book will sum up and tie together any loose ends from previous books. So this escerpt is when Sam Chesney asks Becky's father for her hand in marriage. 

             After you finish, please read the other stories. You can find them HERE.  

 

                      **********************************************************

Her face broke into a broad, warm smile. “Come on, Silly,” she said, moving toward him and grabbing his arm. She ushered him into the back of the store where the Rhodes family lived.

His eyes grew wide when he saw the table. Set with elegant China and real silverware, and embroidered cloth napkins under each fork. A silver pitcher gleamed.

Two small loaves of white bread stood on a platter. One had a hard, plain crust, and the other one had a crust dotted with currants in the shape of a leaf. Sam loved currants. His grandmother served bread like that on holidays, like Christmas and Easter, only. He licked his lips.

A small bowl held soft yellow butter. Grilled vegetables, including squash, rutabagas, turnips, asparagus and onions filled another platter. Candied cooked carrots set proudly on a small, fancy plate. Sam’s stomach danced for joy.

“Sit there, Sam,” Daniel Rhodes, said, indicating a seat next to Becky. He sharpened a carving knife and approached the roasted duck.

Sam kept his head enough to pull out Becky’s chair for her. He noted Daniel Rhodes lifted an eyebrow and sported a half smile before he returned to carving the bird.

Then the duck and the dishes piled high with food were passed around. Sam tried as hard as he could not to look like a glutton, but his appetite had grown and the food tempted him almost beyond control.

“Don’t be a pig, Sam. Nobody likes a pig,” his grandmother had said to him when he was younger. He smiled at the memory of his answer to her admonishment.

“But I like pigs, Grandma.”

He’d been lucky his grandmother didn’t believe in corporal punishment.

After all the plates had been filled, they joined hands, and Mr. Rhodes let them in a prayer. When he sat down, he picked up his knife and fork, and then directed a stern look down the table at Sam Chesney.

“To what do we owe the pleasure of your company at our table today, Sam,” Daniel said.

Becky and her mother kept their heads down to avoid laughing. Everyone knew why Sam was there. He shot a quizzical look at Mr. Rhodes.

“Gosh, Mr. Rhodes, I’m here to ask you for Becky’s hand in marriage. I thought we all knew that,” Sam blurted out.

His statement pushed the women folk beyond control and they burst out laughing. Daniel Rhodes’ face grew pink. “Well, well, yes. I suppose we all knew that.”

That's all for today. Thanks for coming. 

TUESDAY TALES - BERRIES

 

  Welcome! This week we have another episode of "Josiah's Destiny." I hope you enjoy it. When you're done reading, hop on over and read the excellent stories from the other Tuesday Tales writers. Find them HERE. 

               *****************************************************

When Josiah got home, he loaded up the wagon with freshly-cut boards, hitched up his ox, Tails, and headed to the Edwards house.   

Malachi Edwards came out from the house, followed by the rest of his family, to greet Josiah.

“This is my wife, Ruth. These are my sons: Gideon and Harry, and my daughters: Mary, Lucy, and Caroline.”

Josiah did a little bow and tipped his hat. “Pleasure to meet y’all,” he said, making eye contact with Caroline before addressing himself to Malachai.  “Where do you want the wood?”

“This way. Gideon, Harry, give a hand,” Malachi said, leading Josiah to a small shed behind his house. “I been meanin’ to talk to Mr. Fitch about building a workshop by the mill. Malachi said.

“Good. Then I don’t have to cart all this here wood down to you,” Josiah said.

“I’ll speak to Fitch about it after church,” Malachi said.

After the men unloaded the wood, Ruth, stepped over, raised her hand and whispered something in Edwards’ ear.

“Oh, yes. Fine, Ruth,” Malachi said. “Won’t you stay and take supper with us, Josiah?”

“I’d be mighty obliged,” Josiah said, removing his hat.

“Pump’s out back,” Malachi said, going inside.

Josiah strode out back and washed his head, face, and hands under the icy water from the pump. All the while, he wondered how he could wangle a seat next to Caroline. When he finished, he pulled his shirt from his pants and dried his face with it, tucked it back in, combed his hair with his fingers, then went into the house.

There was a fine, long wooden table, with hand-carved scrolls adorning each corner. His luck held, the one empty seat was next to Caroline.

“You make this, Mr. Edwards?” Josiah asked, running his palm over the smooth finished wood before taking a piece of bread as the basket was passed to him.

“Darn tootin’. Call me Mal. Everybody does.”

“Mighty fine, Mal,” Josiah said, spreading butter on his bread.

“I’m training my boys to cabinet-making, too. It’s a nice steady living. People will always need tables, chairs, and bureaus,” Mal said.

Josiah nodded. The aroma of hot food caused his stomach to rumble. A large chafing dish was placed before him. He lifted the lid and saw rabbit stew with potatoes, onions, turnips, and carrots. As there seemed to be plenty to go around, Josiah filled his bowl. Although not quite as good as Martha Chesney’s stew, he enjoyed Mrs. Edwards dish and ate with relish.

As they ate, the grown children voiced their opinions on everything from the flowers Caroline had picked to the state of the main road in Fitch’s Eddy. When they finished, Caroline rose to clear the table. She brought a large pie, overflowing with berries, from the kitchen.  When the meal was finished, Caroline took the dishes to the washtub. The others left the table, wandered into the main room, and sat down. 

That's all for this week. Thanks for stopping by!

TUESDAY TALES - PROMPT "SUGAR"

 

Howdy do! Welcome to Tuesday Tales. We have another episode from "Josiah's Destiny", my historical romance that is in progress. When you're done, hop on over and read the other stories by the excellent Tuesday Tales writers. Find them HERE. 

               **********************************************************

As Josiah led her through the field, he pondered the idea of a girlfriend who couldn’t speak. He’d never really know what she thought about anything, but then, again, she wouldn’t chew his ear off with idle gossip either. He realized that if she was in danger, she wouldn’t be able to yell for help, either, right? He'd have to be sure to keep an eye on her.

He smiled to himself. Already thinking of her as his girlfriend? Wasn’t that a bit premature? Didn’t she indicate that he terrified her? Not exactly a good basis for a romantic relationship, was it? Maybe he could prove himself trustworthy? Might be a bit too much effort to win over someone inflicted with a disability. But she was a looker, truly the prettiest girl in Fitch’s Eddy. He’d been looking for a girl as sweet as a sugary peppermint stick, and smart as a schoolteacher, oh, and beautiful. He knew Caroline had the third one licked.   

Besides, she needed a friend. Her family was new in town. They didn’t right know anybody yet. And though she had four siblings, none of them seemed to pay her much mind. If they cared for her, she wouldn’t be out there by herself picking flowers, would she? Josiah wondered if they ignored her because she was mute? Just good for chores, but not much else. Probably.

The Quint family had raised their children to help others, and Josiah was no exception. He

 enjoyed the reputation of a good soul, a man who could be called on to pitch in when 

needed. Maybe that would include helping Caroline Edwards?

That's all for this week. Thanks for stopping by. Please leave a comment. They make my day!

Tuesday Tales - Word Prompt " Butter"/

 

         Welcome to a new installment of Tuesday Tales. This week we're writing tot he word prompt "butter". I have started a new story. It's the 4th book in my Catskill Saga series and the title is "Josiah's Destiny." It's a sweet historical romance. I hope you enjoy it.

          When you finish this excerpt, jump over to read the other Tuesday Tales stories. Find them HERE. 

          ************************************************

May, 1791

The sun shone unusually hot for a day in the mountains in early May. Josiah loosened the bandanna around his neck.

As he passed a stream, he succumbed to the lure of the water. Slipping off his shoes, he rolled up his pants and sat very still on a flat rock, dipping his feet in the coolness. Movement caught his eye. He looked up to the right and there she was, that new girl, Caroline Edwards. His gaze swept over her as she bent to pick wildflowers.

She walked with a purposeful stride, stopping to pick daisies, poppies, and butterflyweed. Although she didn’t see him, he sat close enough to see the sun make auburn locks among the dark brown gleam like strands of reddish gold.

His fingers itched to run through them and feel their soft silkiness. He shifted his weight and adjusted the bandanna. The movement caught her eye. She jumped back, her eyes wide with fear, her free hand covering her silent mouth. She froze.

 “Hey, don’t be scared. It’s only me. Josiah,” he said, standing then approaching her. He reached his hand out.

The young woman shrank back, clutching the flowers to her chest.

“I won’t hurt you. Promise,” he said. “You’re Caroline Edwards, aren’t you?”

She nodded, but her dark eyes were still large with fear. Josiah’s gaze met hers. He’d never seen prettier eyes. She immediately averted her gaze.

“Honest. Don’t be afraid.”

She took a deep breath, but still stood rooted to her spot.

“Whatcha got there?”

She stiffened like a statue. Josiah felt like a fool. He’d expected an answer even though he knew she was a mute.

“Daisies and butterflyweed?” he supplied the plant names.

She nodded.

“It’s okay for you to pick ‘em. But you shouldn’t be alone here. Sometimes coyotes come through here looking for rabbits. And there are snakes…” he said.

She jumped back, losing her grip on the flowers which fell to the ground. Her hand shook as she bent to pick them up one-by-one.

“Wait. Let me help you,” he said, bending down.

He joined her, retrieving a handful. “Why don’t I hold them, while you pick ‘em?”

She drew her eyebrows down and shot him an uncertain stare.

“I run the sawmill. I’ll be workin’ with your father. No need to be afraid of me.” I could go with you. I can keep you safe and hold the flowers. There are all kinds in this field,” he said.

She gave a nod.

“I come through here all the time on my way home from the Inn. I know a shortcut back to town. Come on,” he said, once again, offering his hand.

She stared at his long, calloused fingers, chewed her lip for a moment while she considered her position.

“You can either take your chances with me or with the snakes,” he said.

At the mention of snakes, her brows shot up and her hand flew out and gripped his hard.

That's all this week. Thanks for stopping by. 

TUESDAY TALES - WORD PROMPT - SCREEN

 

        

      Welcome to Tuesday Tales! This week, we're writing to the word prompt "screen". I have one last episode of "Someone Like You." Next week, we'll be traveling back to 1792 and catching up with Josiah Quint. 

       When you've finished reading my story, check out the others HERE.

                ******************************************************************

Mark Garrett closed the screen on his IPAD. “Here is the written assignment for next week,” he said as Mary handed out papers. “Today we’re going to have a discussion. Which American novelist had the greatest impact on American literature during their lifetime? I want your opinions. And back them up with examples of the writer’s work and your analysis, please. Who wants to start?”

After his announcement, he selected a student, sat back with arms crossed, and listened, congratulating himself on finding a way out of being totally unprepared for class because he couldn't think of anything except Charlotte. 

The discussion was lively. When the minute hand reached twelve, the students stood up and filed slowly out of the classroom.

Mary Rhodes appeared in the doorway.

“Great class today,” she said, smiling too broadly.

“Thanks,” Mark said, paying her no mind as he gathered his books and notes together. He had a light day and couldn’t wait to get back to Charlotte.

Mary didn’t budge.

“Something you want, Mary?” Mark asked, impatient to get going.

“No, no. Nothing.” Again she smiled the smile he found so irritating. He figured she thought she was flirting, but all it did was make her unattractive and obvious as hell.

 “Okay, then. I’ve got to be going,” he tucked his books under his arm and stopped at the doorway. “Please move back and let me by,” he said.

“Oh, sure,” she said, moving a tiny bit.

As he went out, she accidentally on purpose brushed against him. Damn, she gave him the creeps. Was she up to something? While he hated to be suspicious of people, after all his years as a professor he’d learned to expect anything from female students. By the way, that included teaching assistants, too.

He swallowed and strode quickly to the parking lot. The sooner he got home and contacted Charlotte the better he'd feel. When he walked into his house, his feeling of unease didn’t evaporate. It continued to beat slowly but steadily in his brain. He looked out the front window. Nope. No one there. Had he dissolved into paranoia? He picked up his phone.

“Charlotte? Good to hear your voice. Yes, tonight. Let’s go to Pine Grove for dinner.”

He paused.

“Why? Because I simply feel the need to leave town for a few hours. New scenery. And to be with you. Can you do it?”

That's all, folks. I'll let you know when the whole story is written and published. Thanks for reading. Please leave a comment. 

TUESDAY TALES - WORD PROMPT "SUNSHINE"

 

Welcome! It's time for Tuesday Tales again. Today we have the "morning after" scene from "Someone Like You."  After you read my snippet, stop by and read the stories by the great Tuesday Tales authors. You'll find them HERE.  

                ************************************************

The first rays of sunshine poked through the curtains and warmed Charlotte’s face. She awoke first. After stretching her arms above her head and yawning, she became aware of a man’s arm slung across her waist. She smiled.

She pulled the covers up, closed her eyes, and remembered. What a night! Mark Garrett certainly knew his way around a woman’s body. She had felt things she’d never felt before. Derek could use a whole lot of lessons from Mark!

He stirred. She stilled not to wake him. It was only six and neither one had to be up yet. He rolled onto his side and slid her across the bed, then tucked her up against his naked body. His breath warmed her ear.

“Good morning, sweetheart,” whispered a slightly raspy male voice.

“Morning,” she replied, melting into his embrace.

He closed one arm around her and rested his chin lightly on the top of her head.

“Best dessert ever,” he mumbled with a chuckle.

“Yes, but how can I put the recipe online to share?” she replied.

He laughed, deep and hardy. She felt it in her back, and it resonated through her bones. He kissed her bare shoulder.

“What time is it?”

“Six fifteen. We don’t have to get up yet.”

“No, but soon. I have an eight o’clock seminar.”

“Really? Damn.” She couldn’t bring herself to say she’d like to stay just the way they were for the next two or three years.

“Let’s get dressed. I’d like to take  you to Doc’s for breakfast.”

“Works for me,” she said, slowly untangling her body from his.

“No showering together. If we do, I’ll never get to class,” he said, ripping the covers down.

He bounded out of bed and turned on the hot water. Charlotte only had some painting and woodworking to do so she didn’t need to shower. Instead she dressed in leggings, a tank top, and one of her favorite shirts of her dad’s. Since he moved to Florida, he didn’t need any long-sleeved flannel shirts. Sure, it was summer, but the mornings were cool.

They fairly skipped down the stairs, Mark  put his arm around her shoulders and drew her to him as they walked to Doc’s. She snaked hers around his waist. Wasn’t it remarkable how well they fit together, she mused to herself. Then she blushed. Yes, a good fit in every way possible.

 

That's all for today. Thanks for stopping by. 

 

       Welcome to Tuesday Tales! This is the place where a talented group of writers post stories written to word prompts. This week the word prompt is "Flowery." We have more of "Someone Like You," this week. It's a bit steamy, so be forewarned! 

       When you're done, hop on over to read the other authors works. Find them HERE. 

               *********************************************************                         

Sunday morning, Charlotte arose with music in her heart. After dressing and scarfing down a quick breakfast, she got preparations that evenings dinner with Mark started. First there was preparing a marinade for the meat. Then washing and peeling potatoes. She prepared Brussels sprouts, Mark’s favorite vegetable, for baking, sprinkling garlic powder on them and drizzling honey. 

Next, she set the table, fussing over just the right napkins to use. She flitted down the stairs and outside to hunt for wild flowers for the table. Everything had to be just right because this would be the night they took their relationship to the next level. 

Once she finished in the kitchen, she changed the sheets, then took a shower and brought out her most expensive perfume. The one she saved for special occasions. This would be the most special of occasions, wouldn’t it, she said to herself.

She put the meat in the oven and the potatoes in a pot filled with water. The radio played Vivaldi’s Four Seasons. She dressed in a simple white sundress.

He was right on time!

“Something smells wonderful. Can’t tell if it’s dinner, or you, or both,” he said with a chuckle.

She moved away so he could enter. He closed the door and took her in his arms for an ardent kiss. The feeling of his strong arms around her warmed her heart and stirred desire. Losing herself in his embrace would be her dream come true.

The dinner came off without a hitch. The roast was perfect, he loved everything. After dinner, he helped her clean up, but made no move toward the door. It was nine o’clock.

He put one hand on her waist and pulled her to him.

“Now, for dessert,” he said, bringing his mouth down on hers.

He fairly crushed her, making his growing passion obvious. She melted against him.

Without any silly, flowery language, he got right to the point. In a husky voice he whispered in her ear. “I want you, Charlotte. I have for a long time.”

“Me, too,” she breathed in his ear.

He raised his head and made eye contact. “Yes?” he asked.

“Yes,” she replied. 

Surprising her, he whisked her up in his arms and carried her to the bedroom. He closed the door with his foot and laid her gently down on the bed. 

Sorry, folks. That's all for today! Thanks for stopping by!