Jenny's Family Circle

By Betty Wagner Loeb

After the loss of her father and the suicide of her friend Sara, beautiful Jennifer Crawford is determined to become a famous fashion designer. Penniless, she accepts a job in New York where she falls in love with Tony but refuses his proposal when she realizes his twin brother loves her, too. Jenny returns home to Philadelphia. A year later, wealthy Dr. Jonathan Holbrook tricks her into marrying him. His mother provides the wedding and Jennys big break. The Holbrooks become the loving family Jenny always wanted. She divorces Jonathan when he becomes abusive, thus opening the way to marry Tony.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Jan 8, 2008
• ISBN: 9781465332868

Betty Wagner Loeb

At age 86, the author hung up her tennis racquet and edited her trilogy of novels written years ago: Jenny’s Family Circle, Jenny’s Fame, The Many Paths of Love. The characters in her books became like family, so she wanted to see them in print. Two nonfiction books: Altoona and the Pennsylvania Railroad and Voices of the Pennsylvania Railroad were published in 1999 and 2001. Now in print is her young adult novel Abby and the Ugly Man (Mr. Lincoln). Also published were 95 of her stories, essays and poems. Her articles about present-day concerns appear monthly in area newspapers.

Book preview

Chapter 1

Tall and slim, Jennifer Crawford stood motionless beside her father’s grave, too numb with grief to fathom the meaning of the minister’s words as he droned on and on in a monotone.

The mid-September sun was warm, but wind whistled across the small, hilltop cemetery surrounded by farmland in eastern Pennsylvania. The breeze billowed Jenny’s cotton skirt and tossed long strands of brown hair about her pale face. The pungent odor of leaves burning in the distance stung her nostrils. Her eyes slid along crooked rows of tombstones, some broken, their pieces strewn over the ground. Many monuments were almost obscured by weeds and mounds of crimson leaves. Beside one sunken grave waved a tiny, tattered American flag.

Jenny’s eyes lingered on two nearby markers reading simply: Molly Crawford and Joseph Crawford. My mother and baby brother, she thought. I know almost nothing about them. Why did Daddy keep them a mystery? Now, without a living relative, I’ll never know.

Her gaze moved to the faces of the two women neighbors, also two strange men standing on the opposite side of the grave from her. One man was tall, the other short; both stared at her. Jenny shivered. Malcolm Martin, who stood at her left, removed his coat and placed it around her shoulders. Sara Myers, who stood at her right, held Jenny’s hand.

Silence shrouded the gathering while the coffin was lowered slowly into the grave. Sara then plucked two roses from one of the floral arrangements. While handing one to Jenny, a mite of her blood stained Jenny’s finger. Together, they dropped the roses into the grave.

Feet shuffled. The mourners approached Jenny, offering their sympathy. The shorter stranger mumbled a few words. She thought he said his name was Willard.

The taller stranger came last. Jenny glanced up. His voice was strong and deep. My name is Jonathan Holbrook. May I offer my sympathy and my help any time I can be of service. He handed her a small card. I knew your father well, Miss Crawford. He was a fine man.

While driving Jenny home, Sara said, I invited them for lunch at your house. It’s all prepared, but I hope no one comes so you can rest. You look exhausted.

Only the two neighbors, Gert Henderson and Jo Wilcox, came for lunch. Is Jenny all right? asked Gert, the widow who lived next door.

Yes, but I told her to lie down. Sara carried a platter of sandwiches, a chocolate cake, and a small pot of tea to the table.

Poor girl, said Jo as she sat down. How awful to find her father like that… heart attack, wasn’t it?

Yes. Sara sliced the cake.

Jen woulda’ still had family, ’cept for that drunk driver. The chair creaked as Gert lowered her ample body onto it. She promptly chose a sandwich.

People say it’s strange the way the accident was hushed up. Jo helped herself to cake.

Do you mind changing the subject? asked Sara. Jenny may overhear you.

Jo stared at Gert’s noisy chewing. Jenny’s sure a pretty young woman. That tall, good-looking guy couldn’t take his eyes off her. She paused. Neither could that Martin fellow. According to the society columns, he’s a very eligible bachelor.

The likes of him is too old for Jenny, scoffed Gert.

Sara went to the kitchen to heat more tea. Returning to the dining room, she overheard Jo mutter, I heard the one that killed them was the father of Molly’s baby. Imagine that. I didn’t live here then, but people do talk.

Sara’s slammed her fist on the table. That’s a rotten lie. Don’t ever repeat it again.

Sara’s sudden outburst caused Gert to spill hot tea onto her lap. Oouuch! she squealed and jumped up. I’ll change and come back.

That won’t be necessary. Sara remained standing until the women took the hint and left. She closed the door with a sigh of relief.

She was sitting at the kitchen table, reading the evening newspaper, when Jenny finally joined her. Feel better?

Jenny nodded, sat down and ate the sandwich Sara placed before her.

Now, Jen, you can finish your final year at Drexel and become the fashion designer you’ve always dreamed of becoming.

I’ve no money for tuition. I must find a job. Jenny pushed aside her plate.

Surely your dad had life insurance or something.

I don’t know. Malcolm was our attorney. He’s handled Daddy’s bank account ever since he had a stroke two years ago. Before his illness, Daddy took care of his own money and never discussed it with me.

Sara shook her head. One way or another, you can’t give up your dream now. All the time you were housebound with your father, you’ve studied on your own and designed clothes for both of us. She smiled. I’m the envy of every woman in the office when I wear the outfits you made for me. They’re classy and gorgeous.

Sara, making clothes for someone as beautiful as you is a pleasure. Jenny’s eyes filled with tears. What would I have done without you this past week? But I’m afraid you’ll lose your job for taking so much time off.

It doesn’t matter.

You’ve found another job?

No. George and I are getting married.

Sara! I’m so happy for you. Why didn’t you tell me sooner? When? Will you have a church wedding?

Yes. We’ll have it before… . Sara began to cry.

Before what?

Before we move to New York in December.

Move to New York?

Sara nodded and wiped her eyes. I couldn’t tell you sooner. You’ve had more than your share of bad news lately.

Jenny was speechless.

Sara laid her hand on Jenny’s. "I had to tell you now so you’ll have time to make my gown. I want the very first one you design; my very own Jenny Original. She cleared her throat. George found a job that pays twice what he’s earning now. We’ve already waited a year to get married."

But, Sara, I’ll never see you. We haven’t been separated since we were little children.

You’ll visit me, and I’ll visit you. New York isn’t far from Philadelphia. Anyway, you’ll be in college and working after that. We’ll talk on the telephone and write to each other.

Jenny blew her nose. Certainly you must go. I wish you all the happiness in the world. And I’ll make your gown, of course, just like we always planned.

Sara rose and kissed her friend. I must go. Come and stay with me for a few days. I don’t want you to stay here alone.

I need to be alone. There’s so much to think about and do. I’ll be all right.

Call me if you need me. Promise?

I promise, Sara.

The house she had known all her life suddenly felt empty and strange. She rushed upstairs to her room. Fully clothed, she dropped onto her bed and cried until she had no more tears. Holding her throbbing head, she muttered, I knew that someday I’d lose Daddy, but what will I do without my Sara? She’s all I had left.

Chapter 2

A car screeched to a halt. Seeing it was Sara, Jenny flung open the door in time for her friend to dash into the house.

What’s wrong, Jen? I got your message. Sara shed her coat and plopped down on the sofa, her long legs stretched out in front of her.

I didn’t mean to scare you, but… . Jenny waved a small piece of paper in the air. Look what I found while hunting Daddy’s checkbook.

What is it?

A pawn ticket.

Sara looked puzzled. A what?

I think Daddy pawned mother’s diamond ring. How could he do such a thing?

Sara scratched her head. You’re right. How could he? He was an invalid.

Yes, but sometimes Joe Hinkle and his son took him for a ride. Maybe to the pawnshop. But why wouldn’t he have given it to me? All I have of her is a snapshot.

Maybe he needed the money.

He said he gave all of mother’s things away, making me think they were painful memories of her.

Can you get the ring?

Sure. For three hundred dollars, and they will only hold it until Monday.

I’ve got two hundred dollars. You can have it, Jenny.

I can’t borrow money when I don’t have a job.

Didn’t your Dad have some insurance or savings?

I still don’t know, Sara.

Sara handed Jenny the telephone. Call and say you’ll pick it up on Monday. My parents will be home on Sunday. They’ll lend you the money, and don’t argue. Do it!

You’re the best, Sara Myers. Jenny hugged her.

I know. Sara grinned and picked up the newspaper, folded at the classified section. Stop job-hunting. Finish college, and you’ll find plenty of work. Even my boss turned around for a second look at the blue dress you designed for me. She laughed. Remember the guys on the street who used to whistle at us? We dressed up as teenagers; looked like twins—same age, same size and figure; only you’re a brunette with brown eyes, and I’m blonde with blue eyes.

Jenny smiled and nodded. We had such fun going places together.

Sara pointed a finger at Jenny. No more excuses. The next evening I can get away from George, I’m taking you to dinner.

It’s a good thing George is marrying you before some other man steals you.

Not a chance, Jen. I’m George’s, and he’s mine. Sara frowned. It’s time you find a man. That Holbrook is drop-dead handsome; of course, he’s too old for you."

I want a career, not a husband.

You can have both, you know. Sara retrieved her coat that had fallen to the floor. George is waiting. I’ll call you tomorrow.

Minutes later, Malcolm Martin called, saying he wanted to see Jenny soon about her finances. Frank asked me to help you through this difficult period.

Did Daddy have much life insurance?

Offhand, I don’t know the amount, but I put $500.00 into the checking account for you to cover any immediate need. We’ll discuss this later. I’m sorry to rush, Jenny, but I’m due in court. Anything else you need?

No. Thank you. Quickly, she added. Yes, I need three hundred dollars."

What for?

Something important. I’ll explain… .

Okay. I’ll call you.

The inscription in the ring read: FJC to MAC. Jenny’s resentment turned to guilt when she found seven hundred dollars in her father’s night stand. His note read: Jenny dear, I’m sorry my illness has kept you a prisoner for such a long time. On your birthday, use this to buy some new clothes. I know it’s only a matter of time until you become a famous designer. I’m proud of you. Love, Dad.

My birthday isn’t until November. Jenny continued her sketching until Sara called.

Be ready at six, Jen. I’m taking you to dinner. Dress up. She paused. My boss is buzzing me. See you later.

Sara burst into the house, stopping short at the sight of two tall sketches. Clasping her hands under her chin, she stood motionless before them. They’re gorgeous. How can I decide? Minutes passed while she twisted a blonde curl around her finger and studied the sketches. Finally, tilting her head, she pointed. That one.

Jenny agreed. But I want you to be certain. What do you like best about the gown?

I like the extra lace skirt, the short train, the bodice that ends in a point, the long sleeves. I like it all, Jen. It’s elegant. She opened her purse. Will one of these swatches do? She thumbed through them, stopping at a square of crisp silk with a rich luster that appeared pinkish in the glowing sunset streaming through the window.

It’s perfect, Sara. You’ll make George breathless when he sees you walking up the aisle.

Will I? Sara giggled. What about your maid of honor gown?

Jenny displayed two more sketches, and Sara promptly chose the long one, saying, I love it. It’s you.

What will the bridesmaids wear?

Pale pink gowns with a long skirt, round neckline, puffed sleeves and ruffles. Mom chose them. They’re too fussy, but I really don’t have much to say about this wedding. She’s running the show.

Knowing your mother, I’m sure everything will be lovely.

Sara frowned. December third can’t come too soon for me. Turning, she noticed the new suit Jenny was wearing. You look stunning, just like a model. That shade is gorgeous, reminds me of an apricot. George would say, ‘it’s feminine and fetching.’ Removing a compact from her purse, she applied a few touches of blush to Jenny’s cheeks. That’s better.

I forget about make-up. Jenny peered in the mirror. It does help.

Your face is thinner, but you know what, Jen? You’re more beautiful then ever. The spark is coming back into those big brown eyes.

Why Sara, you’ve never said anything like that before.

No, but I think it. You’re special, and success is written all over you. She flung her arms around her friend, then quickly dropped them. It’s getting late.

While driving to Philadelphia, Sara was unusually quiet. They both knew this might be their last evening together. Finally, Sara said, I hate moving to New York, but you’ll be back in school and having los of dates. You’ll forget all about me.

"Sara, I could never forget you, no matter how far apart we are. We’ll keep in touch. You already gave me a name for my designs when you called your gown A Jenny Original. Every label I sew into a gown will remind me of you."

The restaurant was crowded. Sara groaned. Why didn’t I remember to make a reservation? Let’s go somewhere else, rather than wait.

Jenny pointed. We can sit in that nice lounge and talk.

Okay. Sara selected a sofa near a wide window overlooking an expanse of lawn. Tiny lights dotted a chrysanthemum-lined path leading to a fountain with a dolphin in the center. Lights hidden among the trees and shrubs created an enchanting garden. Soft music filled the lounge.

Sara began to speak, then stopped.

Jenny followed her glance and saw two young men enter, boyishly handsome. They came and sat down across from Jenny and Sara. Their similarity—tall, slender, their dark wavy hair, and blue eyes—was astonishing.

Identical twins, murmured Sara. Of course the men heard her remark and grinned. From then on, it was a four-person conversation. And when a hostess asked if they would share a table for four, they willingly agreed.

I’m Tony Antonelli, said the young man holding Jenny’s chair.

I’m Gus, said the one assisting Sara. We’re here to check out the decor of some of Philadelphia’s restaurants.

We’re opening one of our own in December, said Tony.

Jenny told them her name and said, We wish you success. It sounds exciting.

Sara announced her name and added, After George and I get married in December, we are moving to New York.

Both of you must come to see our place, Gus said. Here’s our address and telephone number. He handed business cards to both of the young women.

Let’s not talk shop tonight, said Tony. ‘I’d rather hear all about our beautiful companions." His eyes never strayed far from Jenny.

I’m a secretary, said Sara. Jen is a fashion designer.

Oh, Sara, not yet.

Sara waved her hand. You soon will be. You’ve got the talent. Looking down at her blue dresses, she added, She made our outfits.

The twins’ eyes danced. We’re impressed!

Gus nudged his brother. Wouldn’t Maria love having Jenny around?

Who’s Maria? asked Sara.

Our mother, and there’s nothing she likes better than good clothes… except maybe us. Gus winked at Tony, and they laughed.

Do you design your mother’s outfits? asked Tony.

She died when I was little.

I’m sorry. Tony’s eyes met Jenny’s.

Jenny recently lost her father, too, Sara said quietly.

The twins offered their sympathy, then studied their menus in silence.

Jenny wondered how anyone could tell the twins apart. Even their voices, grins, and gestures were identical. She tried not to, but found herself staring at them. They didn’t seem to mind. They are so warm and friendly that I feel as though we’ve been friends for years, she thought. I’ll remember them for a long time.

While eating, Sara raved about her wedding gown, and Tony insisted that Jenny sketch it for them to see. Watching her, he said, You aren’t engaged or married, are you?

Jenny shook her head, and Sara asked. Are you guys?

The twins laughed heartily. Maria says we’re too young. Gazing at each other, they said in unison, We’re only twenty-two.

Jen and I are twenty-three, but I’d marry George if I were only sixteen. Sara laughed. I guess all you fellows think about is your new business.

That’s all there’s time for, replied Gus. We’ve found a great location and hired a decorator, but her ideas are too far out for us. She suggested black… .

Tony interrupted. Maybe you have some ideas, Jenny.

I’m no decorator.

You took a semester of interior design and redecorated Mom’s downstairs. Sara described what Jenny had done.

Gus leaned forward. If it were your restaurant, Jenny, how would you furnish it? We have a big one in an great location.

Jenny closed her eyes and described a high-ceilinged room with tall windows, draped in pale silk, ruby-red carpeting, crystal chandeliers, a mirrored wall, small tables covered with linen, chairs upholstered in rich fabric that matched the carpeting and drapes.

Grinning, Tony said, You’re a romantic, Jenny. I can smell the roses and hear waltzes in the background.

Now who’s the romantic? teased Gus. But your ideas would make our place look real classy. I’ll bet Maria would love it.

Tony leaned forward. If Maria likes your ideas, would you come and help us decorate the restaurant, Jenny? You could stay at our apartment. We have lots of room, and Maria would love having another female around, especially a fashion designer.

We’ll pay you, of course, said Gus. You should stay in New York. What better place to finish your studies and go into business?

Yes, Jen! Why not? Sara’s face beamed. Then we wouldn’t be separated. Gus is right. New York is the fashion center of the world.

Jenny’s heart thumped with excitement while she watched a waiter serve their steaks. She couldn’t afford to live in New York, but the offer was tempting. Maybe if she sold her house… . no, that wasn’t worth much.

Smiling, Sara jumped up, paused, then sat down again.

Following Sara’s glance, Jenny saw George approaching their table. He looked like a storm cloud. Perspiration glistened on his forehead. In a loud voice that turned heads, he said, So this is your quiet little evening with Jenny? He clamped his hand on Sara’s wrist and pulled her to her feet. I thought you could be trusted, but you’re just like all the other broads I’ve known.

Her face pale, Sara said, George… .

The twins were on their feet, but before they could intervene, George turned and stormed from the room. Sara hurried after him.

A chill slid down Jenny’s spine. What kind of man was George, she wondered? Would he abuse Sara; maybe break her heart? She couldn’t bear the thought.

He didn’t give her a chance to explain, said Tony.

Looking at Jenny, Gus said, Oh, it’s just a lover’s quarrel. They’ll kiss and make up.

Right, agreed Tony. Let’s eat our steaks before they get cold. We’ll take Jenny home.

Jenny was in bed when the telephone rang at twelve-thirty. Sara, are you all right?

Yes. I just wanted to be sure you were home and tell you how sorry I am for what happened. I never saw George so nasty and jealous, but I explained, and he apologized. He and Mom had an argument, so he was upset before he arrived. Those two will never get along with each other.

Give them time, Sara. Everything will work out just fine. You’ll see.

Well, George knows now that I can get mad, too. I read him the riot act and told him to get out of my apartment; that I wouldn’t take such treatment.

Good for you, Sara.

Then he broke down and said it’ll never happen again. But this thing with mother… .

What’s the problem, Sara?

Things have gone downhill between them, but I didn’t want to worry you with my troubles. Sara yawned. Tomorrow is Saturday. I’ll come over and we’ll talk.

Sara arrived at breakfast time and shared Jenny’s french toast. Make my wedding gown, Jen. George and I will be married, no matter what Mom says. She paused. I know George is an alcoholic, but he swore he’ll never touch it again. Mom is acting like… I don’t know. We want a small wedding. She’s determined to invite a couple hundred people. Dad is howling about the cost, but nothing he says makes any difference to her. Because George wants a small wedding, she says if that’s what she has, then he can only invite his relatives, not his friends. What’s wrong with her, acting like this?

I’d say she’s brokenhearted about losing her only child. How often will she see you after you move away? Maybe a big wedding is her way of showing how much she loves you.

Sara’s eyes searched Jenny’s. You really think so?

Yes. And even if you don’t like her plans, convince George that you do. Say you’ve changed your mind. Tell him your gown—the one you’ve always dreamed about—would be out of place anywhere except in your nice big church. Seeing how much this means to you, his attitude will change, and so will your mother’s.

Sara hesitated. Maybe you’re right, Jen She hugged her friend. Just think, while I’m cooking and scrubbing floors, you’ll be designing beautiful clothes and falling in love. She clasped her hands. It’s wonderful to fall in love.

Is it, Sara?

Sara nodded. Just wait and see. She kissed Jenny. George and I are going to New York today to find an apartment. Please, Jen, take Tony and Gus up on their offer. Go to New York. That’s the right place for you. She laughed. Surely you noticed that they couldn’t take their eyes off you last night. Maybe you’ll marry one of them. I wonder what happens when twins fall in love with the same girl?

Chapter 3

Jenny was prompt for her five o’clock appointment at Malcolm Martin’s office.

Come in, Miss Crawford, said a smartly-dressed secretary with red hair so short and tightly curled that it looked like a cap. She ushered Jenny into a spacious office, luxuriously furnished in tones of beige from the fabric-covered walls to the upholstered furniture and the carpeting on the floor. An expanse of windows overlooked center city Philadelphia. Fresh flowers filled a multi-colored vase on the coffee table. A wall of law books created an impressive backdrop for the high-backed chair and huge desk on which were arranged two telephones, two gold pens poised in a black holder, and a leather binder.

Jenny was glad she had dressed carefully for the appointment.

Great view, isn’t it? asked Malcolm Martin, striding into the office.

Yes. It feels like a private world up here.

After a few polite remarks, he said, You don’t remember me, do you?

No.

I believe you were in grade school the last time I visited your father. Did you go on to college?

I attended Drexel for three years and would like to finish.

Why didn’t you finish?

Daddy became an invalid. I couldn’t leave him.

What happened to Frank?

He had a stroke, then a heart attack. He was only fifty-six when… .

I’m sorry. What are your plans now?

Finish school and become a fashion designer, but I need a job first. Jenny felt ill at ease discussing personal matters with this obviously successful man."

Well, Frank had fifty thousand in life insurance; no savings. That will cover his modest burial and possibly your tuition; with maybe a small amount left over for your living expenses. I don’t know of any outstanding bills. Do you?

"No. I never saw our bills. Daddy took care of them until he became ill. Then he turned our financial matters over to