Page 76 of Wagon Train Redemption
“Thanks to you, it no longer feels the same. But I don’t want to forget how it is for women like my mother. Or their children.”
Dipping his head, he kissed her forehead. “You’re helping them.”
“That is my plan.” She sat back, noting the changes the season had brought. Brown and yellow leaves drifted over the trail. A few stubborn golden leaves clung to almost bare branches. AVof geese flew overhead, honking their news that they were headed south to warmer climes for the winter. They hadn’t seen any bears nearby but knew to be cautious as thebig animals sought to put on as much weight as they could before they went into hibernation.
They reached a more traveled portion of the trail. She cupped a hand over her eyes. In the distance, she made out another wagon.
“Ruby and Robert,” Carson said. “This will be our last chance to see them before they go to Banff.”
Content to be beside her husband and looking forward to seeing the rest of the family, Angela settled back to enjoy the trip.
In town, they parked in front of the house where Ma and Gabe lived with Bertie. Ruby and Robert’s wagon was already there. There was also a buggy.
“Louise and Cecil?”
“Could be,” her husband agreed.
“Carson here.” Bertie rushed out, Limpy barking at his side and Alice bouncing along happy just to be with Bertie.
Boss growled a warning, but Carson shushed him. “You know Bertie and his dog.”
Angela glanced at the dog and laughed. “Can dogs roll their eyes? Sure looks like he just did that.”
Rocking on his toes, Bertie barely waited for Angela’s feet to hit the ground before he wrapped her in a bear hug. “You come.”
“Of course I did.”
The door opened, and Ma ran toward them. “Carson, Angela, so good to see you. Come in. The others are here.”
Warm air and the sound of many voices greeted them. Roast venison, cooked turnips, and pumpkin pie scented the air.
Dobie carried a small puppy. “This is Pepper.”
Angela hugged the boy and petted his dog. “He’s going to be a good friend.”
Little Petey squirmed from Hazel’s lap and ran to them.He lifted his arms to Carson who tossed him in the air. “Look how big you’re getting.”
“I two.” Petey held up two chubby fingers.
After a flurry of greetings, Ma hurried them to the long table crowding the living room.
“Ma, it looks wonderful.” A snowy white tablecloth formed the backdrop for Ma’s best china that had accompanied them across the country. Low centerpieces of colored leaves rested in two places along the length of the table. “I’ll help bring in the food.”
“It’s all ready.” Ma took platters from the warming oven, loaded serving dishes from the stove, and handed them to the girls. And then everyone sat around the table.
Gabe stood. “We are blessed in so many ways. Our journey across the country is over, and we have arrived safely. We have all found new homes and started new families.” His voice thickened as he smiled at Ma. “I’ll ask the blessing.” He bowed his head. For a moment, the room was silent except for the breathing of the puppy who lay on a blanket by Dobie’s chair. “Father in Heaven, our hearts are full of gratitude this day. For journeying mercies, for health and happiness, for dear family members, for the promise of new beginnings, and for the abundance of good food that fills our table. Most of all, we are thankful for the gift of salvation. In Jesus’s name, amen.”
The others echoed his amen. Carson squeezed Angela’s hand under the table signaling his own gratitude. Her smile offered the same.
“Eat up,” Gabe said.
He didn’t need to say it twice. The bowls and platter and fresh buns were passed around the table. “It’s delicious, Ma,” Carson said, a sentiment the others reiterated.
Conversation was as lively as the meal was delicious. The main course over, the serving dishes and dinner plates removed, Gabe rose again. “This may be the last time we aretogether until…for a spell. Your ma and I thought before we enjoyed her wonderful pie, we’d like to go around the table and give everyone a chance to say something they’re thankful for and also tell us all the latest about their plans. I’ll start.” He sat down.
“I am grateful for my wife, Marnie.” His look to Ma was warm and claiming. He turned to his other side. “And a helpful, cheerful son like Bertie.”
Bertie squirmed with pleasure.
