Barren Devotion: The Possession Chronicles #7

Prologue

Ever since the 1906 hurricane, Frederick Davenport knew storms had the power to change lives. It was no surprise when he huddled with his family in their downstairs hallway on July 5, 1916, a hurricane would alter his life once again. Five-and-a-half-year-old Bethany sat on Frederick’s lap, and little Louisa hugged his arm. Phoebe held Doff beside her stepmother, watching as Melissa rocked six-month-old Frederick Junior. Feverish and inconsolable, the youngest Davenport whimpered though Melissa did all she could to comfort him as the wind and rain continued to beat upon their home.

Needing to give his son relief, Frederick kissed Bethany’s forehead and Louisa’s auburn locks before setting them together and facing Melissa.

If you’d allow me to bring him to the hospital—

It’s too dangerous.

Then give him to me a few minutes. You need a respite, Beloved.

Frederick took his namesake to his heart, fretful to feel the lack of energy in his son’s body. Stepping toward the study, he looked back at Melissa. I’ll stay away from the windows.

He carried Junior toward the bookshelves. Since Alabama outlawed liquor the year before, Frederick kept hidden stockpiles of his and Melissa’s favorite drinks so they could still share a glass of wine on special occasions, or he could indulge in a shot of something harder when the mood struck. Their make-shift wine cellar was elsewhere, but the tonics were scattered about the study in false books. Taking the leather-bound case labeled Paradise Lost, Frederick set it on his desk and removed the bottle of brandy.

He loosened the blanket around his only son and looked upon his weakened form. Not since Bethany was overcome with an evil spirit four years before had he seen one of his children as bad off as Frederick Lionel Davenport, Jr. Wispy russet hair damp with fever and brown eyes glassy, the once sturdy baby continued to fuss.

You need relief, my prince.

Frederick pressed his lips to his son’s cheek and removed his handkerchief. Opening the brandy with one hand, he dipped a corner of the cloth into the amber liquid and brought it to Junior’s mouth for him to suck. Then Frederick took a swig from the bottle, briefly closing his eyes.

Once more, he dipped a clean corner of the handkerchief into the bottle before taking another swallow and returning it to its hiding spot. He paced the room, swaying Junior as he gnawed the liquored cloth.

Wind lashed the house—the walls of his enchanted childhood with the Easton family. He thought of his ex-mother-in-law. After losing her husband, Mrs. Easton sold her house and traveled between her children’s homes. Frederick hoped she wasn’t in Grand Bay with Susan that month, but he believed she was with Emma in Monroeville.

When Junior fell asleep, Frederick shoved the handkerchief into his pocket and fixed the blanket around his son before returning to the hall.

Melissa stood. You got him asleep.

In his attempt to seek comfort, Frederick tasted her with a deep kiss. Melissa pulled back and leaned over her son’s mouth to inhale. Eyes narrowed, she looked to Frederick with scorn. Freddy, how—

It was just a dab for medicinal reasons. He’s exhausted, and needs rest. I had to do something since you won’t let me go for help.

We need to stay together. Melissa put a hand out to Phoebe, whose blue-green eyes were luminous in the dim hall.

She clutched her stepmother’s hand in return. Do you think Momma, Poppy, Asher, and Miss Naomi are safe?

They have big porches to protect their windows and the lovely hallway downstairs to gather in, she answered.

Phoebe turned and wrapped her arms about her father’s waist. May we go there?

Frederick smoothed her blonde hair. It’s too late for that, Princess.

What about Kade and his family on the island? Are they safe?

God will watch over the Campbells. Frederick smiled for his brave girl. Why don’t we get more comfortable?

He shoved the parlor sofa across the floor and into the hallway, Melissa’s favorite armchair diagonally across from it for her and Junior. Frederick took three-year-old Louisa in his arms, and Bethany and Phoebe claimed either side of him as they waited out the storm.

***

The next afternoon, still blustery and wet, found Frederick and Melissa at the roofless hospital with their son. They’d dropped the girls with Lucy and Alexander and driven the debris-cluttered roads to get the help Junior needed. The infant was declared to have pneumonia, and the hospital had neither the space nor supplies to care for him.

Make him as comfortable as you can, a nurse told them as she ushered Melissa out.

What do you think we’ve been doing since the hurricane? Frederick yelled as he grabbed the doorframe, blocking the exit to keep Melissa and Junior in the exam room. We came for help as soon as we could leave our neighborhood!

I’m sorry, Mr. Davenport, but there’s nothing we can do for him.

Freddy, Melissa whispered as she touched his taunt arm, let’s find Darla.

The telephone lines were unserviceable, so they drove to the Adams’s home. Horatio ran about the yard in a rain slicker as his parents collected the largest felled branches. Darla came to the vehicle when they pulled alongside the pile of tree limbs.

We were going to—is Junior still sick? Darla’s hand went to the infant’s forehead.

Melissa choked back a sob. It’s pneumonia, but the hospital turned us away.

The nurse had the nerve to tell us to try to make him comfortable as if we’d not been doing that for days! Frederick hit the steering wheel.

Henry rushed over at the shout, and Darla grabbed his hand. I need to go with them. Come in a little while to check on us.

Soon Frederick, Melissa, and Darla were huddled around the baby in the Davenports’ parlor. Darla showed them how to hold Junior to open his airway when breathing became difficult.

It’s a blessing convulsions haven’t set in, Darla said, but I know Frederick is experienced in keeping fevers down.

How can we save him? He couldn’t keep the pleading tone out of his voice.

Darla’s lower lip trembled. At this stage, it’s as the nurse told you.

Fists clenched, there was nothing left for him to do but punch.

Freddy, please! Melissa cried as his knuckles broke through the partially closed pocket door.

He stomped across the hall into the study and went for the brandy.

Sometime later, Melissa set a sandwich on his desk and cracked open a window. The wind still howled off and on, but the rain had slacked. On her way out, he reached a hand to her. She intertwined their fingers and fell against his solid chest.

Don’t shut me out. I need you more than ever.

Is there any change?

He’s sleeping, but his breathing is shallow. Henry has gone to pick up the girls.

I can’t deal with the girls.

Darla is going to see to them, and we’ll bring Junior to our room. And don’t tell me you can’t come with me. I need you, Freddy.

Through tear-blurred vision, he gazed at her in defeat. I can’t.

You’ve done noble things for your previous wives, and now it’s time for you to do something for me. You needn’t say anything, just stay with me. Stay with me until the end, Freddy. That’s all I ask.

He nodded.

Keep in here until they come if you’d like. I love you. She closed the door.

After a few more swigs of brandy, Frederick laid his head on the desk and wept. His Christmas Eve son had been ripped from his hands, and there was nothing he could do about it.

She came in a cloud of lavender, lifting his head as her green eyes drove the shrapnel of his shattered heart into his soul.

Goosy. He collapsed against her shoulder. I’d rather it be me.

Lucy shushed him with the stroke of her fingertips along his back. It may not feel like it, but you’ll get through. I know what it’s like to lose a precious one, though you had Junior much longer than I carried Camellia Alexandra. The ache stays with you, but Melissa needs you—Louisa, Bethany, and Phoebe too. And I need you, Frederick Lionel Davenport, my first husband and forever my knight.

She kissed his cheek, but he cupped her face in his large hands and pressed his lips to hers. It felt like home—her warm mouth and cool hands trailing his neck—and he pressed for more. Then her hands were pushing his chest as she leaned away.

A curving smile rather than a frown graced her pretty face. Brandied tongue and kissing another man’s wife. Don’t tell me you’re turning into Alex.

Frederick buried his face in her veil of blonde hair and tugged her against him, remembering the evening he almost took her in that very room though she was married to Alexander. I’m sorry, Goosy.

Don’t be. You’re half-drunk and fully hurting. Besides, you were always a fine kisser. She left a peck on his cheek. But how will I explain brandy on my breath to Alex?

I hear mint covers a myriad of infractions.

Her laugh momentarily lightened his mood.

I love you, Freddy. I had no one when I went through my loss. Keep Melissa close. Lucy replaced the brandy in its hiding spot. Be there for her and the girls. And let me know if there’s ever anything I can do.

Frederick kissed her forehead. Thank you.

He brought Lucy to the entry hall, and she followed Henry and Horatio to their automobile. Stopping in the parlor to hug and kiss each of his daughters, Frederick gave Darla a nod of thanks before retreating upstairs. Melissa lay atop their bed, curled around the still form of Junior. He watched several seconds before seeing the pathetic rise of the baby’s chest beneath his white gown. Frederick took the spot across from his wife—their dying son between them.

She trailed a hand down his arm. Thank you.

He lifted her hand to his lips, kissing her knuckles. Remember, I’m not perfect.

They lay in silence until the gray sunset turned black when Frederick Lionel Davenport, Jr. took his final breath. Frederick held Melissa in his arms for several minutes. Then he kissed his son goodbye and ran out the door.

One

In the predawn quiet of Saturday, Melissa held her breath as she leaned against Freddy’s back. Friday had marked nine months since Junior left the world. She’d spent the day alone, save for Louisa, as typical. Phoebe and Bethany were staying Easter weekend with their mother—taking Holy Friday Mass at the cathedral and their Saturday morning equestrian fun with Alexander—and Freddy hadn’t come home until Louisa was in bed for the night.

Melissa brought her arm around Freddy’s waist and placed her forehead against his shoulder, exhaling in relief when he reflexively shifted into her. Too often, he turned away from her touch, but this time he lifted her hand and kissed it. Knowing that he knew she was there, she tucked her knees behind his and snuggled closer, trying to ignore the flutter of want that began in her chest and crept lower.

Dawn glowed through the curtains as Freddy turned to her fully. For the first time since the hurricane, his hands went to her hips. Rather than the kneading caress of years past, he explored the sharp angles beneath her cotton gown. After birthing two babies, her body had rounded into pleasing curves, as Freddy called them. But over the months of heartache and loneliness, she’d whittled to less of herself while Freddy continued to increase his bulk at the gym six days a week.

Melissa, what’s happened? His hands roamed to her waist, and he fingered her ribs. Where’s my soft wife?

She walks away the lonely hours and can’t bring herself to sit at the supper table without her husband.

But you have Louisa, plus the girls when they’re here.

Are you going to tell me you were completely fulfilled after your divorce because you had your daughters? Hurt more than bitterness carried her words.

What have I done?

His arms felt foreign about her, and Melissa’s pain manifested as tears.

Beloved, forgive me.

Clumsily, his lips went to hers. Beside empty kisses on the cheek as he came or went from home and brushing her hair before bed, Melissa had been untouched since last July. After a minute of indulging, Freddy slipped from the bed and locked their door that had been left open through the passionless nights. Melissa marveled over his physique while he disrobed as he returned to the bed.

If you wish to turn me away, I’ll understand, he whispered. I warned you I’m not perfect, but I’ve been a poor excuse for a husband these months.

Part of her wanted to punish him for his neglect by turning from him, but her long-buried desires spurred her to respond to his attempt to heal her wounds. Fingers trailing down his pectoral muscles, Melissa raised her chin to accept another kiss. His attentions were slow and tender while they rediscovered each other.

Afterward, Freddy pulled her on top of him. Promise me there will be no more hunger strikes.

Wanting to trap him into the truth, she asked a baited question. Am I too thin? Is that why you haven’t touched me?

Beloved, I’ve not seen you these months. I’ve been trying to beat the pain the only way I know. I’ve had no interest in anything but surviving another day. I’ve been to work and the gym, turning to no one for comfort except that terrible day. Seeing Lucy when she stopped by brought all my previous pains to the surface and—

She told me. She told me after the funeral and apologized. You two shouldn’t be allowed in the study unchaperoned.

His laughter gurgled as though afraid to let loose. It was my fault that day, but I’m glad she told you.

Don’t hide from me, Freddy. We have nothing without each other. The girls will grow up and leave, and we’ll be empty if there’s no love between us.

I never stopped loving you. Forgive my neglect, but please be patient as the ache still stings. I don’t deserve your devotion. Freddy’s hands were about her body, feeling like a stranger’s touch.

Sharing the ultimate a second time proved urgent. Melissa marveled over his increased mass, but it could have been her frail size in comparison to his strength that made her feel like he could break her with one false move. He had, after all, already broken her heart.

Lying quietly in his arms when they were both spent, she heard Louisa in the hallway before her knock.

Mommy, Pancake Time!

Have you—

Yes, she breathed out the pain with the word. Each Saturday after their son died, Freddy had slipped from the house before the girls were up, not returning until noon. Rather than disappointing his daughters, Melissa donned an apron and mixed pancake batter while the girls accompanied her with a less exuberant rhythm section. Every Saturday, even when Phoebe and Bethany are with Lucy. Some traditions need to be carried on despite heartache.

His kiss rivaled the passion he’d shown when they were caught in the rain during one of their first dates. Then he stood, pulling on his pajama bottoms and reaching for the door while Melissa tugged the blankets to her neck.

Daddy! Are you home sick?

No, Littlest Princess. He took Louisa in his arms, hugging her as he kissed her cheek. I’m here for Pancake Time. Do you think I remember how to cook?

The king never forgets! Mommy said you’d join us again. Phoebe and Beth will be jealous they missed it.

Tell your sisters I’ll see them next Saturday. He turned to Melissa. I owe you much, Beloved.

***

Hoping Freddy would return from the gym sooner than normal, Melissa and Louisa took a walk around the neighborhood. They went by the Spunners’ house, but Hattie, lying in from her newest arrival, wasn’t taking visitors, and Sean was out with their son, which was a bit of a relief for Melissa. She had avoided Hattie’s weekly science club gatherings since Junior passed away. The few times she’d gone that winter and spring, she’d sat numbly with her empty arms, not participating in the discussions with the other ladies and young women.

On their way back up Catherine Street, Mrs. Conner stopped them.

Have you heard the news, Mrs. Davenport? she asked as she turned from her azalea bushes.

Melissa paused, releasing Louisa to skip ahead, her striped dress flapping about her knees. No, what is it?

Yesterday, President Wilson declared America is going to war. All that talk about drafts will go into effect in the months ahead. It’s a blessing our husbands are too old for that, isn’t it?

Yes. But a pang of worry over their younger friends like Henry, Chuck, and the other regulars at the gym struck Melissa.

Louisa stopped at the next corner. Come on, Mommy!

Enjoy your day, Mrs. Conner. Your garden is prettier than ever this spring.

When they reached home, Louisa brought paper and crayons to the front porch, and Melissa settled in the swing with her journal. She stared at the blank page half an hour before being secure enough to put pen to paper.

He loves me still. As strangers, we reconvened at dawn, he seeking forgiveness and I wanting nothing more than my husband’s arms about me. He didn’t realize what I’d suffered alongside him until he felt the emotional scars that altered me during nine months of loneliness. From here, we’ll cleave together, especially as war reaches our friends.

At eleven-thirty, Freddy still hadn’t returned. Melissa went inside to prepare lunch while Louisa swung in the backyard. She was about to call Louisa when the sound of Freddy’s automobile came through the open windows. Watching him toss their daughter into the air and hug her warmed Melissa’s soul. While he hadn’t blocked his daughters as he had her, he hadn’t been as present for them. Knowing Louisa missed the attentions of her father concerned Melissa. But Freddy, the devoted father she’d married, appeared to be back after his period of mourning.

He piggybacked Louisa inside, allowing her to slip to the kitchen floor before urging her to wash. Then he embraced Melissa, kissing her fully.

Welcome back, Handsome. I’ve missed you.

As though sensing she spoke of more than the morning, he gave her a shy smile before dipping her back for a deeper kiss.

Toward the end of the meal, Melissa remarked about the news she’d heard from their neighbor.

The dispatch was all the men talked about. Freddy took a drink of his iced tea and looked to their daughter. Naptime when you’re done, Princess.

Daddy tuck me in? Her brown eyes were warm, completely trusting.

So long as I’m home, Louisa Constance.

Freddy hurried Louisa to bed and rejoined Melissa in the kitchen as she finished the dishes. I’m glad you ate well at breakfast and dinner. Will Miss Sharon be here to fix supper tonight?

I gave her the weekend off since the girls are gone, though she’s helping Naomi tomorrow.

Would you like to go to the diner instead of cooking?

There’s chicken that needs to be used, but if you want to take us for dessert—

His lips were on hers as he lifted Melissa off the ground and carried her to their room. He tossed papers from his pocket onto the dresser before hastily removing his bottom layers and joining Melissa on the bed.

After their coupling, Melissa stood to straighten her clothing. The breeze through the windows rustled the papers Freddy had thrown on the dresser. Her heart splintered when she read the bold words across the top.

Volunteer Enlistment

Freddy. His name came out like a thousand nails sealing her coffin.

Seeing where she looked, he quickly hugged her. I had to do something. They might not take me as I’m beyond the standard age. They’ll be in touch for a physical and—

Of course they’ll take you! You’re in perfect health. How could you do something like this without discussing it with me after what we finally shared this morning? And you came home and made love again like nothing changed. Her voice trembled.

Chuck, Thomas, and a handful of others were enlisting. We were the first ones at the armed service office. Henry is waiting for the draft. On Monday, I’m making him a full partner and changing the company’s name to ‘Davenport and Adams Allied Accountants.’ But if Henry is drafted, Mr. Peabody can step in as manager. If anything happens to either of us, you and Darla will have a share—

Her hand struck his cheek with a sickening thwack.

All these boys are going off to war. Knowing how it feels to lose a son, I have to try to protect others from that pain.

"And what of my pain? She clutched his arms as hot tears rolled down her cheeks. What are the girls and I left to do but worry? Who will protect and console us when you leave?"

There’s Alex, Lucy, Darla, Claud—

A hell of a lot of good that’s done me these past nine months!

You’re strong and have lived without me that long. I’m sure you can handle another nine months or a year on your own.

In her agony, she raised her hand to lash out once more, but he caught her wrist. She trembled to feel her weakness beneath his grip. Seeking to shield herself from more pain, she laid a wall between them with her words.

How dare you throw your life away when you have so much to live for! Don’t touch me after what you’ve done today, and the emotional neglect you’ve put me through. She yanked her arm free and glared. In case you forgot, I lost my son that day too! You’ve been a selfish bastard all this time, and then you toss me a nugget of what we once had only to shove it down my throat as a parting gift.

Beloved—

You have no right to call me that! Not one thing you’ve done shows that you’ve cherished and loved me since Junior died. I’m tired of being ignored, of being in the same room and afraid to touch you lest I be spurned once again. One day of intimacy doesn’t heal a gaping hole.

Melissa ignored his pained countenance and pleading words, locking herself in the bathroom to scrub his scent from her skin. When she emerged in her bathrobe, Freddy was gone. She pulled on a simple blue dress, tugging the sash as tightly as it would go to accentuate the narrowness of her waist. After braiding her long hair, she went to check on her slumbering daughter.

Alarm at seeing Louisa’s empty bed sent Melissa rushing downstairs. She found Louisa with Freddy on the front room floor, making a fort out of the furniture and blankets.

Mommy, come help.

Not now, sweetie. I need to prepare supper.

Daddy said we were going for ice cream!

You’re more than welcome to go with Daddy, but I need to stay home.

Go on and get your shoes, Louisa. We can finish the fort later. He nudged her from under the blanket.

Freddy caught Melissa around her waist, nuzzling against her neck. Forgive me.

She tensed. I can’t.

Melissa, I—

I need time, something you’ll give me plenty of when you leave—possibly for good.

I’ll return. Just as your kiss made me victorious at the tournaments, send me off with your love, and I’ll come home.

She shook her head. War isn’t a boxing match among friends.

Have faith in me.

Melissa turned for the kitchen. I’m sorry, but it’s all gone.

Two

Naomi Joyner situated the basket of rolls on the Mellings’ dining room table in preparation for Easter dinner. The floral china gleamed amid the polished silverware and crystal place settings as someone entered behind her.

Don’t worry, Miss Lucy. Sharon and I have things under control. Everything will be perfect.

She’s too busy getting Asher to keep his bowtie on to fuss about the table. Alexander grabbed a roll from the basket and winked. Besides that, she trusts you impeccably.

Naomi took in Alexander Melling’s half-unbuttoned shirt and shoeless feet. Company will be here in ten minutes, Mr. Alex. If you’re not going to show them respect, you ought to show some to your Savior by dressing proper on His glorious day.

You may be right, Miss Naomi. He kissed her cheek and shoved the roll between his lips so he could fasten his shirt.

Lucy entered and studied her husband tackling his buttons. Approaching him, she took a bite off the roll hanging from his mouth, a hand on her lavender hat to keep it from falling.

Really, you two! Naomi feigned shock. What would your mother think of that display, Miss Lucy?

She’d probably prefer us sharing than draining her bread basket.

Alexander removed the roll. And we’d never want to disappoint Mrs. Easton.

He popped it back in and leaned to his wife, offering more.

Naomi laughed. I hope y’all got everything out of your systems during Asher’s nap. I swear y’all made Sharon blush with that racquet. Did you even bother to shut the door?

With the girls here, Lucy said, of course we did, though they were happily playing in the yard.

Miss Bethany wanted to run up and tell you about a caterpillar she found, but I stopped her.

Thank you. Lucy’s rosy glow was becoming against her purple gown.

Let’s find my tie, Alexander said, and make sure Asher knows if I have to wear one, he better keep his on or else.

Or else what? Lucy challenged.

Or else that room makeover isn’t going to happen, and he’s stuck with yellow ducklings on his wall until he goes to college.

You wouldn’t be so cruel. Lucy kissed him.

He tugged at her with a thrusting motion. Oh, I would unless you soften me with your touch.

She teased him back with a slower kiss. What you seek appears to be what makes you harder.

But because you love me, you’ll make sure it’s only temporary.

I need to get some air after all that, Naomi said as she went for the hallway.

Your time will come, Miss Naomi, Alexander called after her.

Naomi had given up longing for a beau when she passed her thirtieth birthday two Februarys ago. She’d convinced herself her station with the Mellings—complete with the snug apartment over the garage she’d moved into after their son’s birth—was as fulfilling as anything she could expect out of life with her blind eye.

The doorbell chimed, and she offered a smile upon answering it. Welcome, Mr. Frederick and Miss Louisa.

How do you do, Miss Naomi? The girl curtsied.

Well as anything. Your sisters are in the yard.

Louisa scampered toward the back, nearly running over Alexander.

Louisa, slow down! Frederick called as he closed the door.

Sorry, Mr. Alex. Thank you for having us. She paused long enough to hug Alexander’s knees before continuing.

She’s growing up right quick, Mr. Frederick, Naomi remarked.

His smile seemed pained. That she is.

Alexander joined Frederick. I want a kiss from Melissa. Where is she?

She didn’t feel up to coming today.

Lucy joined the group and took his hand. Freddy, is she feeling unwell because there’s news?

His cheeks went red. Nothing like that.

Disappointment clearly on Lucy’s face, she hugged him. I’ll continue to hope for you.

Don’t, Goosy. And please don’t say anything of the sort to Melissa. We aren’t trying because there’s no way to replace who we lost.

Naomi wiped a knuckle under her eye and moved around the corner to avoid seeing the heartache on Frederick’s face. He and Melissa hadn’t been the same since they lost their son the summer before. Still, she’d never heard Lucy mention Melissa’s weight loss or the fact that Frederick stayed late at the gym, having Phoebe and Bethany take supper with them every weekday evening.

Naomi, Lucy called out, don’t let me forget to send a plate home with Freddy for Melissa.

Naomi stepped forward. We’ll send her a feast, Miss Lucy.

Go get comfortable, Freddy. Alex and I need to see to Asher a moment.

Frederick wandered into the front room as the Mellings went upstairs. Naomi—about to turn back to the kitchen—returned to answer the next door chime.

 Happy Easter, Naomi. Darla, lovely as ever in a yellow dress that showcased her womanly figure, embraced her.

Thank you, Miss Darla. It’s always good to see you, Mr. Henry, and strapping Horatio.

Where’s Asher? the blue-eyed rascal demanded.

Naomi ruffled his wavy hair. He’s in his room, putting up a fight about his Easter clothes.

Henry gave his greeting and mounted the stairs behind his son.

Darla turned to the living room, a frown setting in. Frederick Davenport, in all my years of knowing you, I never would have expected such selfishness as you displayed yesterday morning!

Naomi caught her breath and held her position in the hall. Frederick came to his feet, a look of despair etched across his face as Darla approached him with a wagging finger.

After all Melissa’s been through, you had to march off and enlist when you’re beyond draft age and have three lovely daughters who need you at home. Not to mention your wife, who you gave no thought to when you rushed to sign your name! No amount of patriotism is worth tossing that trust aside.

I know. He hung his head.

Where is she? I need to give her a sympathy hug. I about strangled Henry when I heard he stood by while you, Chuck, and the rest of the guys tried to show off by being the first to join the army.

Melissa refused to accompany me today.

Darla huffed and crossed her arms. You’ve made a muddle of things.

I realize that.

What’s this? Lucy asked as she entered the room.

Darla turned, scorn on her face. Frederick enlisted in the army yesterday without a word to Melissa or anyone else except the fools at the gym.

 Frederick Lionel Davenport, a man your age has no business running off to war! Lucy crossed the room, pulled her hat from her head, and thrashed Frederick with it. Flowers rained around them from the force, but he did nothing to shield himself.

Darla smirked and plopped onto the loveseat as Alexander rushed in.

My queen, set down your sword. His arms went about Lucy’s, pinning them to her side. She dropped her hat and proceeded to kick at Frederick—which did little damage with her bare feet.

I’ll not have my daughters left half-orphans for you to go play knights with real soldiers!

What? Alexander released Lucy.

He enlisted without discussing it with Melissa.

Alexander slapped Frederick across the face.

Alex! Lucy yelped. We didn’t invite Freddy here to abuse him!

He turned to his wife. Then what were you doing when I walked in?

That’s completely different!

Why, because you berated him like that exactly five Easters ago at your parents’ house?

I have every right to express my concern when my daughters are involved. Lucy kissed the red splotch on Frederick’s cheek. Freddy, you know I don’t wish you harm. I’m sorry my husband is such an insufferable, chivalrous cad that he thinks he can slap you because you did something that wounds Melissa.

I’ve made a mess of things, but I have to go if my enlistment is accepted.

Perhaps Alex could challenge you to a duel and sever a finger or two.

You’d enjoy that too much, Goosy.

Daddy! Phoebe led the charge of the Davenport girls. It’s not fair you did Pancake Time without us!

Frederick embraced his daughters, oldest to youngest. I’ve already promised Louisa I’ll be back for it again next weekend. No more skipping, so long as I’m in town.

Are you going to be traveling with Sissa again?

I never know what might happen, but I promise to be the pancake maker as long as I’m home, Phoebe.

Before retreating for the kitchen, Naomi took in the sight of Frederick’s daughters—blonde, brunette, and redhead—and smiled over their perfection. But three children, no matter how glowing, didn’t replace the loss of another.

Three

We’re back, Sissa, Bethany’s soft voice said.

Melissa slid a bookmark into the atlas and smiled at her stepdaughter. I’m glad of it.

Bethany left, and Phoebe bound into the study.

Sissa, you missed it all! Unabashed, the nine-year-old climbed onto the desk, shoving the massive tome toward the typewriter so she could be the center of attention. If she kept up like that, there would be no living with her in another few years. Kade brought the Gilbert Erector Set he got for Christmas he’s been telling me about and built the tower as quick as anything on the patio after dinner. Then he helped me place Rummy on top like Rapunzel, and silly Horatio climbed up it to get my rabbit. Miss Darla started shrieking, but Kade built it so well, it didn’t fall apart. It’s made with steel like the big skyscrapers in New York City. I wish you could have seen it. It was taller than me!

It sounds spectacular. Melissa could feel Freddy watching from the doorway but refused to turn. And how were Kade and his family?

Kade’s terrific. Tabitha and Beth were off together playing dress-up with their dolls. Mr. Douglas talked a long time with Daddy and Mr. Henry about President Wilson and other boring things. And Miss Maggie and Miss Darla talked about babies and islanders like they always do. Phoebe sighed like a tired old woman. Louisa played yard games with Asher, Simon, and Horatio. She scuffed her new shoes and ripped a hole in her sash.

I’ll be sure to look over Louisa’s clothes tomorrow. And what of your mother and Poppy?

Phoebe’s eyes shone with pride. She wore the prettiest lavender outfit, but the hat she wore to Mass was all busted to pieces come dinner. Poppy said it was a casualty from a Melling Militia battle but wouldn’t disclose who she fought or the winner. At least he made Asher pick up the flowers instead of me. He was in trouble for not keeping on his bowtie.

A laugh blurted out before she could stop it. Melissa reflexively looked to her husband to share a smile. Just as his mouth turned up, she looked away. You tell stories as well your mother, Phoebe. Now it feels like I was there.

She jumped into Melissa’s lap and hugged her. "Everyone missed you,