Unwrap My Heart
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Lisa was standing in the hallway, waiting for him to return when she heard his voice. “I’m back.” He sounded like he’d had a long day as well. She smiled and headed down the hall toward him.
“How did it go?”
He didn’t reply right away; maybe because they were still talking about business on some level. If so, there would be no reason to hesitate in telling her what happened at that meeting. There wasn’t any reason not to either.
But then again…he hesitated before opening up to her about many things. Maybe he hadn’t told her everything yet or maybe this time he wanted to keep something from her. Or maybe he just felt uncomfortable discussing his personal life with her. And if she was honest, Lisa didn’t want to pry into his private world until he gave her the green light.
She stopped walking and waited for him to join her near the stairs. “Did you get your answer?”
“No.” The sound of his voice made her heart skip a beat. It always did.
Her stomach clenched tight as she held back an impulse to run over to him and throw her arms around his neck. Then she remembered how he had reacted to their last embrace. He’d pulled away. So he probably wouldn’t welcome another one now. Although he had kissed her earlier today. That kiss had been more than enough to make her forget herself.
But she wasn’t going to push. Instead, she said, “What do we need to talk about now?”
“There’s nothing else I can think of,” he replied. “Now it’s up to me.”
As soon as the words left his lips, Lisa realized she should have asked him to stay after all. But she didn’t want to pressure him in any way. She knew firsthand how hard it could be to come to terms with past mistakes and the painful consequences of those actions.
For all these months, she’d given him space while waiting for him to make his own decision about his future. This was the first time since they’d met that she thought he might never return to America. Her throat tightened at the possibility.
His hand reached out and touched hers where it rested against her leg. “You’re worried about me, aren’t you?”
She nodded. “Of course I am. You know that.”
“And you also know why.”
“Yes…”
“It’s got nothing to do with you, but everything to do with me. Nothing is going to change my mind. I’ve got to come to terms with this on my own.”
The word alone was like a knife to her heart. “If only it were that simple. We both know it isn’t.”
After a few moments of silence, he said, “I’m sorry I won’t be able to spend Christmas with you.”
“Why?”
“Because I’ll be busy working to establish myself in France.”
“So what? I don’t care if you’re busy. How many times have you missed holidays with your family because of work?”
“This isn’t the same.” His eyes looked sad as he stared off into the distance. “That’s just the start of it.”
“What are you saying, Nathan?”
“When I boarded my ship after leaving Australia, I never intended to settle down. I was looking for adventure — a man’s life without responsibility. Now that I’m here in Europe, I realize just how wrong I was. It’s a different kind of life. With different responsibilities.”
“We all make mistakes, Nathan. Don’t be too hard on yourself.”
“Maybe I shouldn’t. But I will anyway. Everything has changed. I’ve learned so much already. More than I ever imagined.”
He paused. “I wish you could see what I saw. I wish you could hear the music of its people. It’s unlike anything I’ve ever experienced before.”
Lisa wanted to ask him to tell her more, but she couldn’t force herself to speak. What would she say, really? She knew nothing of this other side of France. All she knew was the city of Paris. In a short time, she’d seen more of the country than most native Frenchmen. And she hated knowing she’d miss his new experience.
Nathan didn’t seem to notice her discomfort. “They have such a rich culture, Lisa. They celebrate their heritage in ways I never dreamed possible.”
“Well, then you’re in for a real treat,” she said with false enthusiasm.
“Yeah, I guess so.” He turned to face her. “I want you to come with me.”
She blinked in surprise. “Come with you…where?”
“To France.”
“I don’t understand.”
“I want to show you some of the places I’ve visited. I’ll take you on tours across the countryside. Show you the sights.”
She shook her head. “There’s no way I—”
“Think about it, please.”
His plea moved her. She knew how important it was for him to find himself again. But there was something else too. A spark of hope that flared inside her heart at the prospect of traveling through France with him. She’d never had the chance to visit foreign lands before. Maybe she could enjoy it after all.
Then she considered the reality of the situation. “You’re asking me to abandon my job for the sake of a dream.”
“Don’t worry about that. I’ve got enough money saved up to keep us afloat for several years. By then, I’ll be established enough to support you.”
“But what if you don’t succeed? What if you’re not successful?”
“I’ll get started right away. The sooner I land a position in a bank or an office, the faster I can build a nest egg.”
“And when you’re done saving up?”
“Then we’ll go.”
“Do you even know where you’re going to live?”
“I haven’t decided yet. I’ll figure that out later.”
“Are you sure you want to move to France?” she asked. “Is it really what you want?”
“I’ve always wanted to travel and see the world. I thought it was impossible until now. I’m going to take you with me. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. You should consider taking it.”
“No, it’s not a once-in-a-lifetime oppo—”
“Just think about it, Lisa. It’s your decision.”
His voice sounded hopeful. He seemed genuine, almost desperate. And he meant every word. For all these reasons, she found it difficult to refuse. “Okay.”
“I’ll send you a letter telling you exactly when I plan to leave.”
“How soon?”
“As quickly as possible.”
“What about your future wife?”
“By the time I reach France, I’ll have made a decision.”
“I’m glad to hear it.”
He smiled. “So am I.”
***
A week passed, and still, Nathan hadn’t heard from the bank. So he began making inquiries. While he waited to hear back, he hired a stagecoach to take him to London to secure his passage aboard the steamer.
It was Thursday morning. After paying off his coachman, Nathan walked to the nearest telegraph office and sent a message to the bank. If they weren’t able to hire a replacement by next Tuesday, he’d begin arranging for another candidate. Then he had lunch at a restaurant near the hotel where he planned to stay.
The meal was excellent. Good food always helped ease his worries. In fact, he ordered more than usual since he hadn’t eaten breakfast. As he ate, his thoughts drifted to Lisa. Did she want to travel to Europe with him? She’d been so quiet lately. Maybe she didn’t like the idea of leaving the States.
Not that she’d said she did. She’d only agreed to think about it. But then again, maybe she was afraid of moving so far away from home. Or perhaps she didn’t want to leave the children behind. It might be hard on them too.
When he finished eating, he paid the bill and left a generous tip for the waiter. Instead of heading for the train station, he took a carriage ride through the city. He enjoyed the sights and sounds of the busy streets. The people were dressed in a variety of styles, each one unique. The women wore elaborate gowns; men sported top hats and long coats. Even a few cowboys rode down the street on horseback.
As he listened to the horses clip-clopping, he watched the men riding past. One man wore an unusual hat. It looked like a beekeeper’s helmet. Another wore a black cape with a high collar. As he drew closer, Nathan realized he was looking at a banker. The man’s name tag read “Banks.”
Nathan frowned. Was this man trying to make a statement? Going around in a cape and a helmet…
The banker stopped when he saw Nathan staring at him. “Good day,” he called out.
Nathan nodded politely. “Mornin’.”
“Was looking for some directions.”
“I could show you.”
“Thanks. My partner and I are headed to the bank.”
“That’s nice. Glad to help.”
They rode down an alleyway, then turned onto a different street. The banker pointed into an open space between two buildings. “There’s a public phone here.”
“Can’t hurt to ask.”
“Why not?” Banks said with a laugh. “After all, it’s free.”
With no further conversation, Nathan dialed the number he’d written on a slip of paper. On the other end of the line was a woman.
“Yes?”
“I’m calling to inquire about the opening in the bookkeeping department.”
“Oh, yes. We’ll let you know if there’s a need.”
“Thank you.”
“You’re welcome.”
Nathan hung up the receiver. “Nothing yet.”
“We’ll keep trying.”
“I appreciate that.”
“Sure thing. Say, do you mind if I ask how old you are?”
“Twenty-two.”
“Huh. So you’ll be twenty-three when we arrive in Paris.”
Nathan tried to hide his surprise. Twenty-three? That would mean Lisa was just a year older than him. “Seems young to me,” he admitted.
“Well, you’ve got plenty of time to settle down. The rest of us will be getting married at that age.”
“Happens.”
“Does it?” Banks asked. “I guess you never told me what happened to your first fiancée.”
“She wasn’t the right one for me.”
“And now you’re looking for someone who is?”
“My choice. Don’t worry, we’ll both find happiness.”
“If anyone can, it’s you.”
Nathan’s confidence disappeared. “I hope so.”
“I believe you will.”
“So do I.”
“All right.”
When they arrived at the bank, Nathan had to wait a while before being allowed inside. A secretary led him into a large room full of desks. An elderly man sat in the corner, reading a newspaper. A younger woman stood beside him, smiling. They must have been partners or business associates.
The secretary introduced himself as Richard. “Are you Mr. Russell?”
“Yes.”
Richard took a small notebook from his desk drawer. “What brings you here?”
“I’m looking for work.”
“Doing what?”
“Bookkeeping.”
“You’re hired.”
“How soon can I start?”
“Now!” Richard said.
Nathan smiled. “Great! Thank you.”
“Don’t mention it.”
A few minutes later, he was back outside. He climbed into the carriage and waited for it to move. But before it did, he heard the sound of a horse pulling a cart. After a moment, he realized it was coming toward him. Then he felt something hit his head. It startled him for a second but then he recognized the thud. A rock.
Someone threw a stone at him.
He reached up and rubbed his forehead. His hand came away wet. Blood trickled down the side of his face.
“Hey! Who threw that?”
Nathan ignored him. He knew exactly who had thrown the stone. Before he could look over his shoulder, he heard a voice call out behind him. “Watch yourself.”
Another rock flew his way. This time, he ducked his head and covered it with his arm. When the pain subsided, he lifted his head and found himself staring at a brick wall.
“What’s wrong with you?” Banks yelled.
The carriage driver stared at him. “Something happens?”
“Never mind,” Banks said.
Nathan slowly rose from the seat. “Just go on ahead.”
Banks didn’t waste any time. With a nod, he drove off.
“What’s going on?” Nathan asked the carriage driver.
“Somebody threw rocks at us.”
“Who?”
“Didn’t see anyone. Just thought I’d drive around the block.”
“Sorry about this,” Nathan said.
“No problem.”
After waiting a few minutes, Nathan walked out of the alleyway. He glanced up and down the street. The carriage was gone.
The sun shone brightly overhead. It looked like a beautiful day. Not that it mattered. All I want to do is get home.
***
It took Nathan more than thirty minutes to walk home, which left him little time to pack. By the time he reached his apartment, he was ready to leave. He changed clothes and pulled on his boots. In record time, he was packed. The only items he hadn’t managed to take were his books. That meant he had to return them to the library.
By the time he got to the front door, he was exhausted. The thought of going through all those shelves again seemed too much. But what else could he do? At least, he could keep the ones he wanted with him.
Leaving the key inside the lock, he stepped inside. He quickly turned on the light and went straight to his bedroom. He opened the bottom drawer and removed the book he’d borrowed yesterday. Then he put it in a small box. Next, he gathered the others.
Before leaving, he carried the books to the front room and placed them next to the fireplace. Then he locked the door.
Walking to the kitchen, he poured himself a glass of water and drank it down. Careful not to spill any, he carried the bottle to the sink. As he washed the bottle, he thought about what he should tell his family when he returned. Should he pretend none of this ever happened? Or would that be worse than the truth? What if I never come back?
With his hands still wet, he started searching through his drawers. He found everything he needed except for his money.
Maybe I’ll just stop by the bank on my way out of town.
His thoughts drifted to Rebecca. How she’d be feeling after leaving San Francisco. Did she feel relieved to be free? Or did she miss her husband? Did she think about him constantly?
I hope she doesn’t feel too guilty about leaving me. She couldn’t have known.
As he finished washing his hands, he considered asking the cook to give him some money. But he stopped himself. He didn’t want to burden her. And he suspected that would lead to trouble.
Closing the cabinet door, he headed back to his bedroom. Unloaded the trunk in the center of the floor. Took one last glance around the room. Then he closed the lid and locked it.
An hour passed before Nathan found himself back in the carriage. He spent the rest of the afternoon riding west.
***
Rebecca stood in the middle of the kitchen, watching as Nathan’s carriage pulled away. For the first time since he left, she felt alone.
For weeks, she’d been trying to ignore the pain. Thinking it would eventually fade, she focused instead on the plans they’d made. Plans to start a new life together.
She turned away from the window and walked to the stove. “I’m making hot chocolate,” she told the cook. “Do you want some?”
“Sure.”
Rebecca filled two mugs with steaming cocoa. “Here you go.”
“Thanks.”
When she handed the mug to the cook, Rebecca noticed the woman’s eyes were red. Apparently, she wasn’t getting enough sleep.
“You don’t look so good,” Rebecca said.
“Going to be hard without Nathan.”
“Where’s your husband?”
“He left today.”
Rebecca froze. “Left?”
“Said he can’t live here no more.”
“Why?”
“That man ain’t right. Don’t know who he is or how he got in this house. One minute he’s happy, the next he’s mad. I hate to say it, but I wouldn’t be surprised if he’s crazy.”
Rebecca took another sip of her cocoa. I’ve got to talk to Nathan. I need to explain what’s happening.
A loud knock came at the front door. Rebecca turned toward the kitchen window. She saw Nathan standing in the doorway.
In silence, he walked into the kitchen. He stared down at the floor. A moment later, he lifted his gaze and studied her. His face was pale. The color drained from his cheeks.
What’s wrong? Has something happened to Nathan?
“Rebecca.”
His voice sounded strange. He cleared his throat. “This isn’t over yet. You’re still going to marry me.”
Oh God! Is he talking about marrying again?
“But…”
Nathan continued in a low, soft tone, “I don’t want anyone to know about us. Not even my family. If word gets out, there might be other women coming after me. So…we’ll keep it quiet until we get married.”
What does he mean, by “keep it quiet”? Does that mean not telling his family?
“I love you.”
I love you too.
“We need to make sure no one finds out,” he said. “I can’t let people know I’m a murderer. It would ruin everything.”
My god, he’s not going to tell his family.
“If someone finds out about our relationship, I could lose everything. My ranch. Maybe even my freedom.”
Freedom? Where has that come from?
“I’ll leave tonight,” he said. “Come with me.”
Leaving? Why?
“I’ll stay with you.” He picked up her hand. “Just until I figure things out.”
“No!” Rebecca cried. “Don’t do that. Don’t take off like that. Stay here. This is where you belong.”
“I can’t leave right now. But I promise I will tell you everything.”
Rebecca held fast to his hand. “Please don’t go anywhere. We can work this out.”
“It’s too late.”
Too late for what? To stop me from marrying him?
“Rebecca, please.”
Her mind spun. “Wait a minute. What are you planning to do?”
“The only way to protect you is to marry again. That’s why I’m doing it. I have to do it. It’s the only thing I can think of.”
“Is this how it’s always going to be? Are you just going to keep marrying women?”
“Maybe.”
“Then what?”
“We’ll see.”
Rebecca tried to imagine living with another woman. No longer having Nathan. Having to hide their relationship. Making excuses to explain Nathan’s sudden absences.
“Can you ask the cook to make dinner?” Nathan asked.
“Yeah.”
“And while you’re here, I need to speak with Mr. Jefferson.”
Nathan went outside and spoke to the cook. When he returned to the kitchen, she took his arm and guided him back toward the dining room.
Rebecca followed behind them. “Mr. Jefferson?”
“He’s in the parlor.”
They walked through the long hallway and stopped before the closed doors. Nathan pushed open one and stepped inside. Rebecca entered the room.
“Please sit down, Nathan,” Rebecca’s father said.
Nathan sat in the chair facing her father. Her mother stood behind the desk. Rebecca joined her parents.
“How did you find out about Nathan?”
Nathan looked straight ahead. “Someone told me.”
“Who?”
“A man.”
“Did you threaten him?”
“No.”
“Then why did he tell you?”
“Because I threatened to kill him.”
“Which means he knew you were a killer.”
“Yes.”
“So what are you going to do about this?”
“Nothing.”
Rebecca gasped. “You’re not going to tell anyone?”
“There’s nothing to tell.”
“Rebecca,” her mother said, “don’t listen to Nathan. He doesn’t want anyone finding out.”
“Not even your family?”
“Of course not.”
“What if I told you they already know?”
“Tell me.”
“I was married to Nathan. Then I found out who he really was.”
“What did you say?”
“I never wanted to marry him. I thought I loved him. But I didn’t. Nathan killed my husband. He shot him. I watched him die. After that, I left him and started my own business.”
The End