TUESDAY TALES - WORD PROMPT "BARE"

 

    Hi, welcome to Tuesday Tales! We have another episode of "Sarah's Dilemma" today. An answer to 

the cliffhanger from last time. Don't forget to read all the Tuesday Tales HERE. 

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        “What?” Her eyes widened. “What did you say?”

“Will you marry me? If we get married, the rumors will stop.”

Sarah laughed. “You’re funny.”

“I’m serious. I’m prepared to marry you.”

“Not a romantic proposal, is it, Josiah?”

“We don’t have time for romance. Besides,” he shot her a sideways grin. “We already had the romance part,” he snickered.

Sarah swatted his shoulder and tugged on his arm. “Get up.” 

He rose to his feet. “You won’t marry me?”

“I’m too young to marry anyone.”

“If your parents consented.”

“They’d never give consent.”

“I hate you’re being shamed over a little kiss.”

She quirked an eyebrow. “There was nothing little about that kiss.”

He laughed for a moment, then pulled her close. She squirmed.

Releasing her, he said, “I figure it was the wine.” 

“Yep.” She smoothed her bodice and gave her skirt a shake.

If you change your mind about getting’ married, tell me. I’m willing. You’re the most beautiful girl

 in all of Fitch’s Eddy. I’d marry you in a second.”

“Thanks, Josiah. I’m not marrying anybody now. But thank you for proposing. It was a nice thing to do.”

“Anytime.” He doffed his hat, then took her elbow. “We’d best be getting back.”

Sarah giggled. “Don’t want to start any more rumors.”

The twosome picked their way through the rocky, rough terrain back to the Inn. Josiah bid Sarah goodnight and went up to his room. She washed up and leaned against the front window, gazing at the moon. She’d had her first marriage proposal before she was even eighteen! A grin spread across her face. Charity and Catherine Bloodgoode couldn’t say the same. Of course, she didn’t know for sure no one had proposed to them. But if someone had, she’d bet the Inn they’d be married by now. 

Sarah slipped into bed and pulled up the sheet and thin blanket. She touched her lower lip, remembering Benjamin Fitch’s kiss. The bare truth? The force behind it had almost knocked her to the ground. She’d never felt anything like it. Josiah would have to try a lot harder to equal that.  

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  Welcome to Tuesday Tales! This week we have another episode of "Sarah's Dilemma." This one might surprise you...at least I hope it will. Don't forget to read all the wonderful Tuesday Tales stories HERE. Thanks for coming. Please leave a comment -- they are always welcome.

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“You look a mite flushed,” Martha said, casting a keen gaze on her granddaughter. “Must be the sun. Be careful, it’ll burn your skin.”

Sarah caught her mother’s sly grin before she looked away. “Yes, Gram. I’ll wear a hat next time.”

“Next time?” Martha cocked an eyebrow. 

“Uh, next time I have to go out or do something or help someone or…”

“Next time I send her on an errand,” Abigail chimed in.

“Yes. Mama. Yes. Thank you.”

Martha furrowed her brow, narrowed her eyes and crossed her arms over her chest. “You two are up to something. Hmm. Painting an innocent picture. I’ll find out what it is, eventually.”

Sarah busied herself preparing bread dough and avoiding her grandmother’s gaze. After supper, she went to fetch logs. Although it was late May, the early mornings were chilly.

“Psst.”

She stopped. Was that a snake hissing?

“Psst.”

There it was again. No snakes out at night.

“Sarah!”

She whirled around to see Josiah Quint steal from around the corner of the Inn. He took her elbow.

“Come with me. I need to talk to you.”

The half-moon didn’t shed much light.  She followed along, tripping over the larger weeds and rock outcroppings. Holding her to his side, he kept her from falling. The strength of his arm around her made her heart flutter. He smelled of fresh pine from the wood he’d cut and a bit of sweat. She inhaled deeply, enjoying his scent.

When he reached the edge of the woods, he stopped, drawing her into the shadows with him.

“What do you want?”

“I want to say I’m sorry for the other night. I never meant to get you in trouble.”

“I’m not in trouble.”

“Nasty rumors are all over town. They’re saying awful things.”

“Lies. They're all lies.”

“I know that and you know that, but I doubt anyone else will believe it.”

“Some will. The people who know us. Our friends. Others, well, I don’t care what they believe. I know the truth. And so does my family.”

“Still. I think I ought to do the right thing.”

“The right thing?” She raised her eyebrows.

Josiah dropped down on one knee. “Miss Sarah Chesney, will you marry me?”

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TUESDAY TALES - WORD PROMPT "CARELESS"

 

Welcome to Tuesday Tales! This week's word prompt is "careless." We have another episode of "Sarah's Dilemma" this week. We find Sarah still in Benjamin's office after that kiss that burned.  Don't forget to read all the stories. You'll find them HERE. Thank you for stopping by.

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Benjamin burst out laughing, his blue eyes sparkling with merriment. “Well, I guess that’s good then.”

Warm all over and feeling her face flushing, she picked at a cuticle. “Maybe we’d better get started. I mean, if you want to keep this a secret, I shouldn’t be away too long.”

“Oh, right, right. Can you come over here?” He gestured to the larger chair behind the desk. She settled in while he opened a ledger and pointed. 

Sarah spent the next hour doing arithmetic, and sharing corn muffins. She took her time. It wouldn't do to be careless and make a mistake on the Fitch's books, would it? She showed him what she’d done.

“You have to know it so if you’re asked, you can explain.”

“Right.” He nodded. "I understand."

She went over every column with a brief explanation. When she finished, Sarah wrapped herself in the shawl and picked up the empty basket. Ben opened the door.

“Thank you.”

She stopped and leaned against the door jamb. “Do you believe me?”

“You mean about Josiah?” he asked.

She hesitated. “Yes.”

“I do.”

“No matter what people say?” She lifted her eyebrows. 

“No matter what people say. I know you. You’re not a liar. And you’re not a hussy.”

 She smiled. “Thank you.”

“Can you come back next month?”

“Of course.” She reached up to touch his rough cheek before stepping out into the warm May sun. Ben brought her hand to his lips.

“There may be more copperheads out there. Or mountain lions. May I walk you home?”

She nodded, casting her glance away. 

Ben took his gun and joined her. His free hand laced with hers as they strolled along through the  tall grass and wildflowers toward the Inn.

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Tuesday Tales - Sound

 

Welcome to Tuesday Tales! We have another episode of "Sarah's Dilemma" this week. Don't forget to return and read the other stories HERE

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Sarah entered. The cabin was small but had three windows. A large desk sat near one window. There was a chair behind it and one in front.

“Water?” He picked up a pitcher and held it over a cup.

Her throat felt like sand in the hot sun. “Thanks.” After gulping it down, she licked her bottom lip before speaking. “Do you still want me to help you?”

“If you don’t mind.”

“You’re not mad about, uh, the other night?”

“I’ve only heard stories from other people. Will you tell me what happened?”

“Yes.”

“Sit.” He gestured to the empty chair.

Sarah eased down, spreading her skirt out, and told her tale.

“That’s all?”

“I swear it. Yes.”

“Doesn’t sound so bad. Though he did kiss you.” Benjamin frowned.

Sarah cast her gaze to the floor. She picked at the fringe on her shawl.

Silence hung heavy in the room.

“I wish it had been me.” His voice softened.

“Me, too,” She whispered.

“What did you say?” He rose from his seat. 

“Nothing. Nothing.”

“Do you want me to kiss you?”

Sarah met his gaze.  Suddenly defiant, she stepped closer. He placed his hands on her upper arms and drew her into his embrace. Quickly leaning down, his mouth met hers. As if a bolt of lightning had struck her, a powerful force burned through her body. Leaning against his chest, she flattened her palms on his pecs, bracing herself.

Time froze as his lips pressed against hers. Finally raising his head, Ben’s gaze locked on hers for a moment before he stepped back.

“Is that what Josiah did?” He asked, his voice husky. “

She shook her head. Josiah’s kiss had been like a summer breeze. Ben’s? A scorching fire. "No.”

“Oh?” Ben raised his eyebrows.

Eyes wide, Sarah touched her bottom lip, which was still sensitive. “No, sir. No. It was nothing like that.” She backed away and sat abruptly when the chair met the back of her legs.

With eyebrows draw together, Benjamin pursued the subject. “Better than that?”

Again, she shook her head. “Not as good. No." She tilted her head slightly to make eye contact. “It didn’t burn like yours did.”

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Tuesday Tales - Picture Prompt - Sunset

 

Welcome to Tuesday Tales! This week we have another episode from "Sarah's Dilemma." Since it's picture prompt week, we are restricted to only 300 words, but can dip slightly over. I have gone to 309. But that's within the rules. I hope you enjoy this snippet and the other stories, which you will find HERE. Thanks for stopping by.

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She smoothed her skirt over her belly and left her hand there. “I think I’m pregnant.”

The joy on his face melted away, replaced by a frown.

“Why do you make such a face?”

“This is not good news,” he said.

“Yes, it is. We will have our own baby.”

“You might die giving birth.”

“I’ve given birth three times. This will be no different.”

Sweat beaded on his forehead.

She took his hand and placed it on her belly.

“What if I lose you and the baby?” he asked, cupping her cheek.

His hand felt warm and dry. “What if you don’t? What if everything is all right?”

“It would be a miracle.”  

“You’re such a good father. You deserve one of your own.”

He stared at her belly. “I remember feeling the movement when Emily was with child.”

“I’m sorry you lost your wife and child.”   

He blinked rapidly. “Lizzy treats me like her father. That’s enough.” He tightened his arms around her.

“We are going to have a child. I hope you’ll be happy about it.” She hugged him.  

“If what you say is true, I will be the happiest man in Fitch’s Eddy.”

The sun slipped below the horizon, shooting a reddish glow across the sky. Caleb eased down onto the rocker and pulled Abigail into his lap. He closed his arms around her and rested his chin on her head. She cuddled into his shoulder.

Though she had comforted her husband, she knew his fears could come true. Although she’d had three regular deliveries and three healthy children, this time could be different. Daniel Rhodes had assured her she’d most likely have a delivery like the others. Then he added, But it’s in the hands of God now. Whatever will be will be, Mrs. Tanner.

Remembering his words sent a chill down her spine.

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TUESDAY TALES - WORD PROMPT "BARE"

 

Welcome to Tuesday Tales! This week's word prompt is "bare". Hmm, lends itself more to a spicy story, doesn' it? But it also fits into my sweet historical, "Sarah's Dilemma". So here's the excerpt. Don't forget to read the other stories by talented authors. Find them HERE.  

Comments are always welcome. Thank you for stopping by. 

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Sarah nodded. She rose from the bed and snatched her shawl off the chair. After wrapping it tightly around her, she took her brother’s arm. Quietly they tiptoed out the backdoor and toward the home of their half dozen chickens. The moon hid behind a cloud, making their path uncertain. They slowed down to keep their footing.  

“Sam? That you? Sam Chesney?”

Sarah and her brother stopped suddenly.

“Who’s there?” The darn moon refused to budge.

“It’s me, Josiah Quint.”

“Josiah! Well, well.” The moon finally popped out, shining on Josiah’s hair, turning it to black silk and shadowing his handsome face. Sarah’s heartbeat quickened.

“And Miss Chesney, too? I’m a lucky man.” He shot her a dazzling grin.

She did a little curtsy, then grimaced in pain.

“You were in the schoolhouse fire, weren’t you? Let me help you.” Josiah took her arm. She leaned into him, relaxing against his strength. Sam yanked her away. She stumbled along a few yards, then stopped.

“Watch it!” Sam growled.

“Ow! Sam!” Pain seared through her.

Josiah pushed his buddy away. “Leave her be.” He picked her up and hustled over to the garden bench. He laid her down gently.

Swept away by his gallantry, she clung to him, her mind confused her body awash in feelings so strong she barely had the strength to murmur, “Thank you.”

“She needs rest. What are y’all doing out here, anyway?”  Josiah took her hand in both of his. She met his gaze and raised her palm to cup his cheek.

“Lay off my sister, Quint!”

“Oh, shut up, Sam. Ain’t doin’ her no harm. She’s been hurt.”

Sam quieted, easing down on the bench next to Sarah. He slid his arm around her shoulders.

“Sorry, Sarah. I didn’t mean to hurt you.”

Josiah rested back on his heels. "Do I have to ask you again? What are you doing here?”

Sam picked up one of the goatskin pouches hanging from his belt. “Got us some grape wine. Enough to share. Want some?” He pulled out the stopper and handed it to Josiah.

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TUESDAY TALES - WORD PROMPT "SIMPLE"

 

    Welcome to Tuesday Tales! The word prompt is "simple." This week we have another episode of "Sarah's Dilemma." Don't forget to visit all the authors and read their great stories. Find them HERE. 

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 Lizzy set the table. Martha put out cold meat, peas, and carrots. Sarah sliced a loaf of bread made in the morning and the family sat down to dinner.

“Abigail, could you make one of your berry pies for supper?”

“Berry pie? Sure. Tell me again you’re not sweet on Sheriff Abiel Lee?” Abby put a forkful of meat in her mouth.

Martha laughed.  “A simple pie. That’s all.”

“Nothin’ simple about my pies,” Abby replied.

“Too good for this sheriff. Who is he anyway? What’s he doing in Fitch’s Eddy?”

Caleb wiped his chin. “I reckon old Mr. Fitch is responsible.”

“We don’t need a sheriff.” Sam took a large slice of bread from the plate.

“Yes, we do. Keep you and Josiah Quint law-abiding,” Sarah said.

“We ain’t done nothin’.” Sam slathered soft creamy butter on his bread.

“Mr. Lee said he’s retired. Maybe he’s not here to keep the peace,” Martha said.

“Then what’s he doin’ here? He’d better steer clear of you, Grandma. Or I might have to teach him a lesson.” Sam made a fist and punched it into his palm.

Martha raised her napkin to her lips hiding her grin. “Be careful, Sam. Mr. Abiel Lee is a mighty big man.”

“Not too big for me.”

Martha exchanged glances with Caleb and Abigail. She swallowed her laughter and forced herself to stop smiling. “Nice to know I can count on you, Sam.”

“Darn right you can.” He scooped up peas with his spoon and shoveled them into his mouth.

“Maybe you’d better steer clear of his daughter, Violet, Sam.”

“I ain’t afraid of no Mr. Abiel Lee.”

“Maybe not. But you’d best be afraid of Becky Rhodes if she sees you makin’ eyes at Miss Violet Lee.”

Caleb and Abigail burst out laughing.

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