Read Online Alice: Bride of Rhode Island (American Mail-Order Bride 13) by Kristy McCaffrey - Free Book Online Page A

three appointments today in Newport—two concerned the possible purchase of a new schooner for his fleet, and the third was with Lillie Jenkins, the widowed wife of his good friend Stephen. They’d already had a preliminary meeting in Tiverton several weeks prior, regarding the collaboration of their companies—in fact, it was the very day he’d met Alice at the train station, having escorted Lillie for her return to Newport. Now that she’d had time to consider his proposal, he hoped she would see the benefit to both of them.
    In the evening was the Christmas party at Daniel Endicott’s home. James had decided during the night, while he slumbered uncomfortably on a sofa mere feet from the sleeping form of his beautiful wife, that he wouldn’t take her to such an event, Frank be damned. James could play his hand just fine with Endicott without putting Alice through any undue discomfort.
    * * * *
    Alice scooped her red plaid skirt with one hand and stepped from the carriage into a brisk December wind, gray skies threatening rain or sleet. Despite this, she released the driver and buggy, knowing that she could walk back to the Ocean House when she was done. It was several blocks, but she anticipated a long visit. She was grateful that she’d purchased new boots in Tiverton before the journey. It had been an indulgence to be certain—a fine set made of wool gingham with a stacked wood heel. The best part was the cream cotton twill lining that felt like butter on her feet. Walking would be no hardship, even if it rained.
    She dashed quickly toward the seamstress shop owned by Vera McAdams. A bell jingled as she opened and shut the door. Alice untied the ribbon at her chin and removed her bonnet, then pulled the black gloves from her hands. A few ladies browsed and spoke with a young woman. Alice smiled and gazed at the lovely attire on display.
    Would James like her in the pink wool bodice and skirt trimmed with ivory lace? Or perhaps the more modest navy silk day dress with long sleeves and pleated shoulders?
    A petite elderly woman appeared from a back room. Alice smiled broadly when their eyes met.
    “Alice?”
    “Yes, Vera. It’s me.”
    Alice embraced the woman, fighting back tears. She held on, so grateful to see her mother’s dear friend.
    Alice had been in this shop many times, first with her mama as a child, and then as a young lady, alone. Vera McAdams had offered friendship and comfort after the death of Hazel Endicott, when Alice had desperately needed it.
    “Oh child, it is so good to see you,” Vera whispered against her ear.
    Alice leaned back as Vera’s scent of roses clung to her and fought the urge to crawl once more into the woman’s arms.
    “When I heard you’d left...” Vera smiled up at Alice and gently patted her cheek. “I was so worried about you, but I did get your letter. Why are you back? Are you still working at the factory?”
    “No. There was a fire and all was lost.” Alice took a deep breath. “It’s a long story. Would you be able to visit for a bit?”
    “Yes, of course.” Vera turned to the young girl assisting the two women. “Betsy, I’ll be in the back taking a break. Come get me if you need any help.”
    “Yes, ma’am,” Betsy answered.
    Alice removed the sage-green jacket then settled into a chair while Vera disappeared to make tea in the kitchen. A widow for many years, Vera had turned her home into a dress shop to support herself.
    She returned with a tray filled with tea and cookies. Her eyes lit up when she looked at Alice’s dress. “Why, that’s very beautiful work.”
    Alice had loved the plaid pattern as soon as she’d seen it, and the shawl—draped over the bustle and fastened at the waist—was a unique adornment.
    “Where did you get it?” Vera asked.
    “A wonderful shop in Fall River, near Tiverton, though not as wonderful as yours.”
    Vera poured the tea. “Did Endicott buy this for you?”
    “No. My husband did.”
    Vera glanced up,