Cora's Deception (9781476398280) by Colvin Mildred

Author:Colvin, Mildred
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: historical romance, inspirational romance, christian romance, christian fiction
Publisher: Smashwords

Chapter 15

Ben rode off on Flash, the new saddle horse he’d brought back from St. Louis. Cora picked a long, green pod from her basket and pinched one end, splitting it so her thumb found an entrance to scoop the peas out into her cupped hand. If only she could’ve gone with him, but Esther and Ben wouldn’t want her interfering in their courtship. Just before he left, he said he still hadn’t told her everything. She’d have to wait for his return to hear all he’d learned about George.

She gave a soft laugh. Did she even want to know?

The effects of the laudanum had gradually worn off over night. Father said she hadn’t swallowed more than a drop or two, or it would have killed her. Remorse filled her, eating at her insides. How could she have given in to weakness and thought death was the way out? She should’ve trusted her father’s love more.

Father stepped on the porch while she shelled peas. “Cora, are you certain you feel well?”

“Yes, Father. Only my head hurts a little today.” She gave him a slight smile. “I’m sorry for what I did.”

He swallowed and looked away. “I hate to think what could’ve happened.”

“I know.” She whispered the words.

“Death is not an escape.”

Cora looked at Father, but he continued to stare off across his land toward the creek. His voice, when he spoke, was low. “I remember my mother praying for me. She always said this life is but a dressing room for the life beyond. I’ve not paid heed to her words. I’ve neglected the lessons of my youth. Maybe this happened for a reason, Cora. Maybe we should all take note and learn what we do now is important when our life does come to an end.”

Never had she heard Father talk so seriously. He loved fun and laughter. What had she done? Not only to herself but to the rest of her family. Remorse filled her soul.

She touched his arm. “Father, I’ve learned. Please don’t be sad because I’ll never do such a thing again. Even as I took the medicine, I regretted my actions and tried not to swallow it. I’m fine now. There’s no reason to worry. It won’t happen again. I’m so sorry.”

He gathered her into his strong arms and patted her back while tears ran down her cheeks. Then he kissed her forehead and smiled. “I’m glad to hear that. We couldn’t get along without our Cora, you know.”

A laugh that was part sob came from her throat. She smiled and brushed at her wet lashes. “I know. I love you, Father.”

He kissed her again and stood. “I love you, Cora. I’ll get out of your way so you can get your peas shelled.”

She watched him walk with strong strides across the yard toward the shelter. She’d hurt him, and she was sorry for that. He hadn’t meant to hurt her. She’d never mistrust him again. She picked up another pea pod and pinched the end.

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