The Innkeeper's Wife by Lynn A. Coleman

Author:Lynn A. Coleman
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Harlequin
Published: 2014-10-15T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter 9

The next couple of days were uneventful, and Grace relished them. As she was finishing up the morning breakfast and cleaning the kitchen, there was a knock on the door. “Good morning, Mrs. Martin,” a masculine voice called from behind the screen door.

“Do I know you?” Grace asked as she wiped her hands on a towel and went toward him.

“Forgive me, my name is Charles Bennett. I’ve come to inquire as to whether or not you might be interested in a courtship.”

Grace rolled back on her heels.

“Forgive me for being so forward, but I’ve been petitioning your father for a year, and he’s assured me that you are not available.”

“Pardon?” Grace couldn’t believe her ears. “For a year?”

“Yes, ma’am. I’ve seen you in town and in church and, while I’m a humble man of humble means, I believe I could provide for a wife and children. However, I believe in a marriage of mutual attraction and interests. Which is why I am asking for a possible courtship.”

Grace took a moment to assess him. He was handsome to look at. He had a lean build. His hands were twisting the daylights out of his felt hat. “Mr. Bennett, why are you approaching me now?”

“Your father said you had moved out and were no longer seeking his advice. So, he told me where I might find you, and I thought I should at least give it one last attempt. You won’t see me beg, Mrs. Martin. I am not that kind of person. But I believe your father felt I was unworthy of your affections because I am a man of humble means.”

“Mr. Bennett, please try to understand, I am honored by your interest and that you think I’m worthy of becoming your wife but...” She bent her head low and took a moment to compose her thoughts. “My life is in a bit of a chaotic state with regard to my husband’s estate. I do not have the wherewithal to engage in any kind of courtship. I hope you can understand.”

Charles Bennett bowed and set his crumpled hat upon his head. “I thank you for being honest, ma’am.”

“You’re welcome.” He started to leave. “Mr. Bennett I shall pray for you to find your spouse soon.”

He turned back to her. His smile spread, highlighted by long creases and cheerful eyes. “That’s mighty fine of you, ma’am. Thank you. And I shall pray that you find resolution with your husband’s affairs quickly.”

“Thank you. I appreciate that.”

“You’re welcome. Good day, Mrs. Martin.”

“Good day, Mr. Bennett.”

Grace turned and found Richard Arman staring at her, his back rigid and his arms crossed. “Who was that?”

Fire blazed her cheeks. “A gentleman caller. Apparently, my father is telling potential suitors where I live. He is no longer fielding their inquiries.”

“I take it that means we will have a constant stream of suitors coming to the inn.”

Grace shrugged.

Richard mumbled. Grace couldn’t figure out what he said but knew he wasn’t excited about the possible disruptions. Honestly, she couldn’t imagine men lining up to court her.

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