Truly, Madly, Deeply

“You eavesdropped on us,” he growled accusingly.

“I didn’t mean to. I didn’t like the movie I went out to see and came home early. I was on my way upstairs when I heard my name mentioned. You wanted to send me to live with my dear brother, Gerald, so that you and Julianna could be alone. But she pointed out that if I left, who would get up and fix you breakfast? She made it clear she intended to sleep in the mornings. And she also wanted to know who would clean the house and do the laundry.”

“Are you complaining about doing your chores...your fair share? I’ve taken good care of you. You did what is considered woman’s work around here, and I’ve provided you with a roof over your head and food to eat.”

“Yes, you have. But that wasn’t why I stayed. I stayed because I thought you loved me and you needed me. And you said as much when I wanted to go away to college.”

“I do love you and need you,” he assured her.

“I’m not sure about the love part but you did need me. You needed someone to be your maid.”

“It wasn’t as if you were a slave. I paid for you to go to college here in town,” he said in his defense.

“True. But when I finished and wanted to get a full-time job, you talked me out of it. You insinuated that I owed you and I was being an ingrate if I didn’t let you come first on my list of priorities. And I did so want you to love me. So I settled for a part-time job that wouldn’t interfere with my having your breakfast and dinner on the table when you wanted it there.”

He regarded her dryly. “And I suppose you’re going to blame me for you being nearly thirty and not married, either.”

“You’ve pointed out many times that I’m not a beauty... that I take after Aunt Mamie rather than my mother. And, when a man has shown interest in me, you’ve found flaws in him. But, no, I don’t blame you for my not being married. You’re right about me being a plain Jane and you were right about every suitor I’ve ever had. None were the right husband material for me.”

His voice took on a coaxing quality. “You don’t really want to spend the rest of your life living alone in a tiny little apartment.”

“I don’t know what I want except that I want my freedom.”

His manner became practical. “You can’t afford to support yourself on your salary from the day-care center. And I hope you don’t think you can take any furniture out of this house.”

“I’m taking nothing but my personal belongings. And I have a new job.”

The plea returned to his voice. “I still need you. Come on, honey. You don’t really want to leave. You just feel a little out of place with Julianna joining the household. But you shouldn’t.”

“I don’t feel out of place. I feel freed. You have someone to take care of you and I can get on with my life.” Rising, she walked to him, gave him a kiss on the cheek. “I wish you all the best.”

The anger returned to his face. “You’ll regret this. You’ll fail on your own.”

A curl of fear had woven through her. He’d made that prediction in the past and it had caused her to hesitate, to question her ability to survive on her own and finally to retreat to the safe haven he offered her. But not this time. Before she’d been able to convince herself that he loved her and that was why he was so concerned. Now she knew he’d only kept her there because he’d wanted her free services. “Every bird must spread its wings and fly. I’d hoped you’d wish me luck.”

“You need more than luck to survive in the real world. When you crash land, my door will be open and your room will be waiting just as you’ve left it.”

She scowled. “Thanks for the vote of confidence.” Nodding toward a note on the refrigerator, she said, “I left my new address and phone number.” Then not waiting for him to continue to attempt to undermine her determination, she’d strode out the door.

Backing out of the driveway, she’d noted that he hadn’t even stepped outside to watch her leave. “No doubt he’s more concerned about finding something for his breakfast,” she’d muttered, then shoved him out of her mind and turned her thoughts to finding Judd Graham’s home.

Now lying in bed her first night there, she vowed never to allow herself to be used or manipulated again. From this moment on, she would always face the truth and never deceive herself or allow others to deceive her.

She drew a long, deep refreshing breath, then released it. Smiling, she turned to Travis. “I’m in charge of my own destiny now and I like it.” Then snuggling into her pillow, she slept.

Chapter Four

Two weeks later, Minerva sat at the breakfast table doing her part to see that the majority of the food got on the inside rather than the outside of the triplets. Wanda Johnston had not found her another position and after the first week, Minerva had stopped asking. The truth was, hard work had never bothered her and she was growing very fond of the children.

The ringing of the phone momentarily startled the triplets into silence. Then it was forgotten as their father rose to answer it.

“Minerva, the phone is for you,” he said, laying the receiver on the counter and returning to the table to take over her position amidst the triplets.

She heard the edge of displeasure in his voice and frowned as she rose. Surely he couldn’t begrudge her a simple phone call.

“Congratulations,” Wanda Johnston greeted her cheerfully as soon as Minerva picked up the phone and said hello. “You’ve stuck it out longer than anyone I’ve sent.” In her usual hurried manner, she didn’t wait for a response but continued in a rush of words. “And while I’d like for you to stay so I don’t have to find someone else to send into the lion’s den, I am a woman of my word. I was going to call you yesterday but got caught up with other things so I figured I’d call you early this morning. Anyway, a teaching job has just opened up at one of the most prestigious boarding schools in Georgia.”

As she named the school and continued with the job description, Minerva looked toward the table. Getting out from under Judd Graham’s watchful eye would be a relief. Then her gaze traveled to the triplets and to John. The worry that whoever replaced her wouldn’t take good care of them tormented her.

“Well what do you say?” Wanda asked, coming to an abrupt halt. “I thought you’d be gushing with delight.”

Wanda was right, Minerva told herself. She should be gushing with delight. This was a terrific opportunity. Then she saw Henry’s playful smile. In the next instant he’d grabbed Judy’s favorite doll from beside her. Judy started to cry and all Minerva could think about was comforting her. “I really appreciate the offer but I’m going to pass on it. I’m sort of settled in here. Thanks for everything, Wanda. Goodbye.” Hanging up, she returned to the table as Judd returned the doll to Judy and the tears ceased.

“Thanks for staying,” Judd said, rising from her chair.

The open gratitude on his face shocked her. Since her arrival, he’d made her feel as if she was constantly on trial. The fact that he obviously approved of the job she was doing brought a rush of pleasure. Stunned by its intensity, she told herself that it was only normal to be pleased to be told you were doing a good job. Still, as she felt herself being drawn into his dark gaze, her heart began to beat double time.

Suddenly panic showed on his face, breaking the spell. Out of the corner of her eye she saw Henry’s cereal bowl perched precariously on the edge of the table. Don’t let yourself get so distracted, she admonished silently, catching the bowl just before it fell.

“Nice move,” Judd complimented.

Again Minerva experienced an intense rush of pleasure. Taking her seat at the table and forcing her attention back to the triplets, she admitted that Judd Graham was a distracting man. When he was in the house, she was always aware of his presence. Because I’m constantly looking over my shoulder to find him watching me, judging me, she’d complained to Travis on several occasions. But this morning had been a whole new experience. Approval had replaced his judgmental air and she was still basking in its warmth.

The ringing of the front doorbell sounded above the children’s breakfast clatter.

“This appears to be our morning for early callers,” Lucy said, already pushing her chair back. “I’ll get it.” Taking the long way around the table, she paused beside Minerva’s chair and gave Minerva’s shoulders a squeeze. “I’m glad you’re staying, too,” she said, then hurried on her way as the bell rang again.

Calm was reigning at the table when Lucy returned. “You have a visitor, Minerva,” she announced.

Looking past the housekeeper, Minerva was surprised to see her father following Lucy into the kitchen.

“Thought I would stop by on my way to work and see how your new job is coming along,” Peter said.

Judd rose and extended his hand to the newcomer. “Judd Graham,” he introduced himself.

“Peter Brodwick,” Minerva’s father returned, accepting the handshake.

Judd made a quick introduction of the children and Lucy, then offered Peter a cup of coffee.

“No, thanks,” Peter said in refusal. “I just came by to check on my daughter. Looks like she’s got her hands full.”

“She’s managing very well,” Judd assured him.

Minerva recognized the polite mask on her father’s face. Beneath it, she knew he was finding fault with everything he saw.

“I was wondering if it would be possible for me to speak to Minerva privately,” Peter requested.

Realizing that she had not missed her father... that she had been enjoying life without his constantly finding fault with her or trying to manipulate her into doing his bidding, she had no desire to talk privately with him. “I’m really very busy,” she protested.

Clearly not wanting her to feel she could not take a few minutes out of her duties for her family, Judd said, “Lucy and I will take over for a while.”

Knowing it would look impolite and possibly raise questions if she refused, Minerva thanked him and led her father back through the house to the living room. Once there, she braced herself. “So to what do I owe this visit?”

“Honey, I love you. And as your father, I felt I should check up on you and make certain you were okay.”

His voice was soft, warm and fatherly. How many times had she allowed herself to believe he really cared for her when he’d talked to her that way only to have him undermine some plan she’d made for her future that didn’t serve him? “I’m doing very well, thank you,” she assured him.

“Looks to me like they’re working you ragged.” He placed an arm around her shoulders. “I just want you to know that you’re welcome to come home anytime you want.”

She worked her way free. “I’m really very happy here.”

“You’re still angry with me for marrying Julianna.” He sighed. “Your mother’s been gone a long time. Surely you didn’t want me to spend the rest of my life mourning her.”

“I am not angry with you for marrying Julianna. In fact, I’m pleased. Now I can have a life of my own.”

He frowned patronizingly. “I wouldn’t call this much of a life.”

“It suits me,” she replied curtly.

He patted her on the shoulder. “I didn’t come here to make you angry.”

Minerva smiled dryly. She knew this ploy. When she was much younger, he’d used it often. He’d provoke her into losing her temper then suggest that she was too immature to do whatever she’d been planning to do, thus providing him with an excuse to refuse to allow her to proceed and in many cases weakening her selfconfidence. “I’m not angry. But I am busy.”

His fatherly, coaxing smile returned. “Then I won’t keep you from your charges. I just wanted to let you know that both Julianna and I will welcome you home anytime you get tired of nursemaiding someone else’s children.”

The unspoken insinuation that she should be concentrating on looking for a husband so that she could have a family of her own almost caused her to laugh. How many times had he subtly let her know that he expected her to die an old maid? “I appreciate the offer but it won’t be necessary.” As she spoke, she led him toward the front door.

“Just remember our home is your home, too,” he said, dropping a light kiss on her cheek before exiting.

Watching his departing back, Minerva knew she would never take him up on that offer. She could finally call her life her own and she liked it.

“Is there a problem at home? Do you need some time off today?” Judd Graham’s voice broke into her thoughts.

“No.” She turned to find him standing a few feet behind her. “No problem.”

“Your father seemed a little on edge.”

“His eggs probably weren’t done to his liking this morning,” she replied, wondering if he’d had to cook them himself or if Julianna had succumbed to his wishes and was getting up to fix his breakfast.

“Sounds like a very demanding man.”

“Living with him made adjusting to you a cinch.” Minerva flushed when she realized what she’d said.

Judd raised an eyebrow as if to say he felt he’d been unfairly maligned. John had joined his father and was regarding her questioningly as if he didn’t understand her complaint.

Minerva was feeling empowered. She’d faced her father and had not been tempted to give in to his manipulations. Admittedly Judd Graham was more intimidating than Peter Brodwick but he, too, was just a man. Her shoulders squared as, after two weeks of keeping silent about their scrutiny, she prepared to speak her mind. “It hasn’t been easy having you and John both constantly watching me. I feel as if I should have a permanent burn scar in the middle of my shoulder blades.”

Judd reached down and placed a hand on the shoulder of his eldest son. “I suppose we are a bit overly protective. But I won’t apologize for that.”

Minerva noted that the set of both of their jaws was identical. John was definitely a miniature of his father. “I don’t expect you to. I was merely pointing out that it was because I lived so many years under my father’s critical gaze that I could handle the two of you. However, I suspect your watchfulness was one of the reasons you haven’t been able to keep a nanny for any length of time.”

“A couple did mention that our hovering got on their nerves,” Judd conceded.

Surprised by this admission, Minerva’s gaze levelled on him. There was a sheepishness about his expression that softened his usually hard featured face. At that moment, he looked rather appealing. And for the second time this morning, he stirred a warmth within her.

“We’re going to be late,” John reminded him.

The sheepishness disappeared and Judd Graham was once again her cool, authoritarian boss. “If you’re certain you don’t need some time off, John and I’ll be on our way.”

“I’m certain I don’t need any time off,” she reconfirmed, shaken by these new reactions to the man. Relieved that he was leaving, she smiled down at John. “Have a good day and I’ll see you at...” The sentence died on her lips as she squatted down for a closer look at the area behind his ears and down onto his neck. Half a dozen red splotches with small white heads in the center had emerged. “Looks like chicken pox,” she announced.

“Chicken pox,” both males echoed in unison.

“Chicken pox,” Minerva repeated. “I taught at a preschool before I took this job. I’ve seen them before.” She looked worriedly at Judd. “I had them as a kid so I’m immune. Please tell me you did too. They’re uncomfortable when you’re a child but they’re really dangerous if you get them as an adult.”

“I had them,” Judd assured her.

Minerva breathed a sigh of relief. “If you’ll put John to bed, I’ll go check with Lucy and make sure she’s had them, then I’ll call your pediatrician.”

Judd nodded and headed down the hall with John.

In the kitchen, again to her relief, Minerva discovered that Lucy had not only had the chicken pox but had nursed her children through them.

A short while later, John was back in bed. Judd was on his way to the drugstore to pick up the antihistamine and calamine lotion that the doctor had prescribed to help alleviate the itching that was bound to begin soon, and more children’s strength acetaminophen for the fever.

The triplets had been ordered to leave John alone...an order that only made them want to hang around him more.

“Shouldn’t we let them be exposed so they’ll get it and get it over with?” Lucy asked, when Minerva shooed the triplets out of the room and closed the gate.

“They’ve already been exposed. A lot will only cause their cases to be worse.” Minerva repeated what one of the mothers had told her that her doctor had told her.

Lucy didn’t look convinced.

“And I’m sure they’ll get plenty more exposure,” Minerva continued, noting the way all three were remaining at the closed gate, staring in at their brother.

Judd arrived back at the house about half an hour later. Going in to see John, he frowned anxiously. “I have to go out to one of my sites for a short while. I’ll be back as soon as I can.”

Minerva, who had followed him in to give John a dose of the antihistamine, smiled reassuringly. “He’ll be just fine. I’ll give him some acetaminophen for his fever and he should sleep for a while.”

Both looked at her and she read the uncertainty in their eyes. “You two are the most distrusting men I’ve ever known,” she grumbled. Her gaze flashed between the two of them. “I may not have actually taken care of a child with the chicken pox but I know what to do.” Her attention turned fully on Judd. “You had the doctor give me specific instructions and Lucy has nursed her two children through them. If I have any questions, I’ll ask her.”

Still not looking totally convinced, Judd waited until his son closed his eyes, then bid him goodbye, again promising to return as soon as possible.

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