Read Online Dreams of Gold by Linda Carroll-Bradd - Free Book Online Page B

herbs are in a wooden box in the bottom bureau drawer.” She reached into her reticule. “Here’s my room key.”
    Mary took the key and hurried from the room.
    Belle set a glass of water on the counter. “Sip on this until she gets back.”
    “I appreciate your understanding. I don’t believe I’ve ever had a headache this severe.” The water felt good on her parched lips and tongue, but she needed the herbs now. With elbows on the counter, she cupped her forehead in her hands, covering her eyes to keep out the light.
    Footsteps announced Mary’s return, and with a soft thud, she set the box on the counter at Ciara’s elbow.
    “Thank you, Mary.” Ciara slid the clasp to the side and opened the lid. Inside was the collection of herbs and elixirs she’d been using since her mother first became ill.
    She lifted out several bottles and peered at the labels until she found the one she wanted, and then she picked up the spoon Belle had placed next to the teapot and measured the required amount. Before she could stand, someone set a kettle of steaming water on the counter. Ciara glimpsed Belle’s retreating form and murmured her thanks. She poured the water and waited, closing her eyes and rubbing her temples. If only the sheriff hadn’t peppered her with questions.
    “What is all that?” Belle’s curious voice interrupted.
    Ciara struggled to open her eyes and turned toward the woman who eyed her box with arched eyebrows. “These are dried herbs and elixirs I’ve prepared.”
    “Are you a healer?” Mary asked, wide-eyed, her hands clasped at her waist.
    “I have no formal training.” Ciara waved her hand in dismissal. “My grandparents were tended by a physician, but they weakened and took to their beds, never to improve. When Mama became ill, she insisted I read all I could of herbal and folk remedies and use only those to treat her symptoms.”
    “And she got better?” Mary whispered.
    “For a while. I believe the herbs relieved her pain longer than the standard medicine had for my grandparents. But she passed away, too.” Ciara’s throat felt dry as she fought against the rush of emotion threatening. “Just a few months ago.”
    “My condolences, miss.”
    At the comforting note of Belle’s voice, tears stung Ciara’s eyes. “Thank you.” She poured a cup of the brew and slowly sipped the hot tea.
    Noises of food preparation sounded from the other side of the room. Belle and Mary continued their conversation in hushed tones.
    Ciara was content to sit, relaxing in the quiet company of women performing work that had been done thousands of times through the ages. For her, kitchens represented places of community and sharing. Mostly, she enjoyed the respite of being away from Sheriff Riley’s presence. She drained her cup and refilled it, the restorative powers of the meadowsweet tea beginning the healing process. Only a dull ache that no longer threatened her vision remained. She opened her eyes, looked around, and connected with two curious stares. “I feel much better. Thank you for your assistance.”
    The women resumed their duties. Belle jerked her head in the direction of the wooden box. “You got herbs in there for the woman’s curse? Sometimes I can barely stand when my courses come on me. The doctor says it’s just the way of women.”
    Ciara cringed at the doctor’s strict thinking. “Mama received relief from tea steeped from chamomile flowers.” Glad she had helpful knowledge, she reached into her box and pulled out another bottle. “I have some here and would be glad to show you the proper way to brew it.”
    The thud of footsteps on the back stairs and a knock at the door sounded.
    Belle crossed the room with heavy footsteps, wiping her hands on her apron. She opened the door to a young boy with a wooden box of cans and sacks. “Here’s a coin for your trouble, Johnny. Tell Mr. Riley I appreciate the last-minute delivery.”
    At the sheriff’s name, goosebumps skittered