September Sky (American Journey Book 1) by Heldt John A

Author:Heldt, John A. [Heldt, John A.]
Language: eng
Format: mobi
Publisher: John A. Heldt
Published: 2015-01-01T05:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER 44: CHUCK

Houston, Texas – Saturday, June 30, 1900

The house that Hiram Fitzpatrick built was not the biggest in downtown Houston or the most ornate, but with massive columns, dormers, and arched windows, the redbrick Georgian mansion inspired awe, respect, and, in one time traveler's case, curiosity.

"Who lives in this place?" Chuck asked.

"No one does when Wyatt and Silas are away," Charlotte said. "Except for the housekeepers and gardeners, who reside in the building behind us, the property is unoccupied."

"What a shame."

Charlotte smiled and raised her glass of wine.

"Here's to empty houses."

Chuck, sitting on the other side of a white wicker table, raised his mint julep.

"Here's to houses I'll never live in."

Charlotte gave him a scolding glance.

"Don't be such a pessimist, Charles. You may be one book away from fame and fortune."

Chuck smiled. He knew he would never possess the riches of the Fitzpatrick brothers, but he didn't care. He had something far more valuable – the love of a good woman. His challenge was how to keep that love in the face of several challenges.

Chuck started to praise Charlotte's optimism but stopped when he saw Wyatt Fitzpatrick step out of the house and approach the table. The co-host of the Gulf Star Line's annual Founder's Day celebration wore a dapper suit, a stylish hat, and a grin that stretched from ear to ear.

"There you are," Wyatt said. "I see you found the bar. Is there anything I can get you?"

"I think I have everything I need, Wyatt. Thank you," Chuck said.

"How about you, Charlotte? Can I get you anything?"

"No, thank you.

"Where's Rose?" Chuck asked.

Wyatt smiled.

"She's playing charades with a few of my employees."

Chuck laughed.

"I figured she was up to something."

"You're welcome to join them," Wyatt said.

"I just may," Chuck said. "I've always wanted to play that game."

Charlotte smiled slyly.

"Is that another thing that hasn't made its way to California?"

"There are a lot of things that haven't made their way to California, Mrs. Emerson."

Charlotte raised a brow.

"Such as?"

Wyatt chuckled.

"I'll leave you two to your debate," Wyatt said. "Should you need to find me, I'll be mingling with guests in the parlor or keeping an eye on Rose."

"Thanks, Wyatt. We'll see you a little later," Chuck said.

Wyatt tipped his hat to Charlotte and left the scene.

"He seems rather upbeat," Chuck said. "I wonder why."

Charlotte sighed.

"I believe I know. I think our ladies' man has finally decided to settle down."

"Really?"

Charlotte nodded.

"Rose told me that Wyatt has been hinting at marriage lately. She thinks he'll propose by the end of the summer," Charlotte said. She offered a playful glance. "Men do that, you know."

"Yes, they do."

Chuck smiled nervously. When Charlotte's lingering gaze began to make him uncomfortable, he looked away, to his left, and saw an opportunity to change the subject.

"I see a line forming at the buffet table," Chuck said. "Would you care for something to eat?"

"I think I'll wait," Charlotte said. "My stomach is a bit unsettled."

"All right."

Grateful for the temporary reprieve, Chuck settled into his chair and let his eyes wander.

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