When the Heart Is a Stranger: A Novel

By Holly A. Kellison

When the Heart is A Stranger is a compelling story of a young widow raising two children in the late 1700’s. Molly has survived hardship, burying a husband, making her way as an adept bookkeeper, while being a single parent with no one to lean on. Thus, she has become independent, strong, and fiercely protective of her children while remaining kind-hearted. When the dominating Philip Roberts moves to town with an agenda that involves having her skills for his business, Molly fears for her future and that of her children. In his relentless pursuit she succumbs to his control, striping her of everything until she has nothing left but her constant faith and unconditional love that cannot be taken from her.

• Language: English
• Publisher: AuthorHouse
• Release date: Dec 16, 2019
• ISBN: 9781728339641

Holly A. Kellison

Holly lives in the Pacific Northwest where she continues to follow her passion for creative writing, poetry, and painting. Ms. Kellison is best known as the author of the Boundaries Within series and When the Heart is a Stranger. Currently, she is working on the third installment for the series, as well as other works.

Book preview

AuthorHouse™

1663 Liberty Drive

Bloomington, IN 47403

www.authorhouse.com

Phone: [phone]

© 2020 Holly A. Kellison. All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted by any means without the written permission of the author.

Published by AuthorHouse  12/12/2019

ISBN: 978-1-7283-3965-8 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-7283-3964-1 (e)

Library of Congress Control Number: 2019920605

Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Getty Images are models,

and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

Certain stock imagery © Getty Images.

Because of the dynamic nature of the Internet, any web addresses or links contained in this book may have changed since publication and may no longer be valid. The views expressed in this work are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, and the publisher hereby disclaims any responsibility for them.

CONTENTS

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Chapter 27

Chapter 28

Chapter 29

Chapter 30

Chapter 31

Through the darkness I travel seeking truth.

It is only when I love myself, I see the light.

Standing in the light, embraced with love, and knowing the truth,

I find my peace.

48012.png

CHAPTER 1

M olly walked hurriedly down the congested muddy street. There were riders on horseback, as well as carriages pulling the wealthy that seemingly had no regard for the folks on the street. Not veering from her path to the mercantile, Molly moved forward just a she felt a rain drop fall from the sky landing upon her cheek. Briefly, she glanced up at the sky praying for the heavy rain to hold off until she got the store. Focusing on her immediate task, she pushed forward through the throngs of people. Finally, she walked through the mercantile door, just as the rush of rain began.

Good morning, Molly, Frederick Marshall, the owner, kindly stated as he helped a customer.

Good morning, Mr. Marshall. I do apologize for being late my youngest is sick. I will stay late to make up for my time lost. Molly hung her coat in the back room and put on an apron. What’s with all the people out there? I don’t recall ever seeing so many in our town.

Rumor is that a slave trader came to town. Been told that he may settle here for a while. Frederick shrugged as he finished ringing up the customer. After that customer left, a few more came in, however Frederick spoke to Molly regardless. Molly, you’re only fifteen minutes late, it’s fine. I set the receipts in the back for you to balance. Why don’t you head on back there now? I can take care of the customers.

Are you certain? Molly asked.

Yes, yes, you know I don’t like dealing with those numbers. Frederick gave her a wink.

Yes, sir, Molly nodded once with a soft grin as her eyes caught an unfamiliar man in the store. He was tall, thin but not sickly looking, he looked rather refined, she noted, with his nice clean clothes and hat. With a soft sigh she looked down when he looked at her, trying to avoid eye contact. When she glanced back up, he tipped his hat to her without so much as a simple grin. An uneasy feeling settled deep within, as she gave him a nod and went to the back room.

A few hours later, Molly walked two doors down the street to the bank. After depositing Mr. Marshall’s revenue received from the day before, she headed back out the door only to run into the tall man, again.

My apologies, sir. I was not paying attention, Molly spoke softly and tried to veer around the man, but he made it impossible.

Ms. Molly, do you have a last name? he asked in a self-assured voice.

Yes, sir, McBride, she answered wondering how he even knew her first name.

I’m Philip Roberts, perhaps you’ve heard of me? He eyed her waiting for an answer as he held out his hand.

No, sir, I have not. Molly held his eyes as she shook his hand and waited for him to move. I’m sorry, I must go. Mr. Marshall is awaiting my return. He’ll think I was robbed if I don’t get back quickly.

Yes, yes, run along. We wouldn’t want Mr. Marshall to worry. Philip Roberts stepped aside, allowing Molly to finally leave. As she quickly bustled away, he watched knowing she was the best bookkeeper in town with a hidden talent of being a translator of the slaves’ native tongue and he wanted her working for him. It was also favorable that she was pleasant for the eyes.

Molly finished her day with Mr. Marshall. She truly appreciated his kindness and understanding given the unfortunate events that transpired in the last year. When she received notice of her husband’s death the year before, she knew her life was going to go from challenging to very difficult now that she had to raise and support herself and two children alone. Out of sheer determination, she managed. Of course, the help of her grandmother was always appreciated as well.

Ahh, it’s finally slowing up a bit, Frederick noted as Molly was sweeping the floors. I wasn’t too keen on the idea of a slave trader moving to town, but if he brings this much business to my store, who am I to complain?

A slave trader? Like the men who sell other folks? Molly asked having very little knowledge of this business as she grew up in the north, where they didn’t have slaves.

Yes, he answered as he began to restock shelves. He came in earlier to set up an account. I think you were in the back.

Why would he move here? We’re just a small town, sort of.

We’re growing, Molly. Open your eyes and look around, this isn’t our small town anymore. Besides we’re not far from the port. I hear the slaves will be brought in that way and he plans to set up shop at the port for selling and trading. Rumor is that he also runs the port, probably owns it. And, he owns a couple of the slave ships that go back and forth across the sea. Frederick stopped stocking the shelves and had Molly look at him. You need to be careful walking home. It’s not like it used to be. I would prefer if you didn’t walk after dark. Make sure you leave during the light. We can’t have your children orphaned.

Molly pursed her lips fully understanding what Mr. Marshall was telling her.

Walking the mile home from town was something she didn’t mind. It gave her time to think, time to daydream of a life different then what she was given. Regardless of the dreams, she always concluded that she wouldn’t change a thing, as she would never give up her children for all the riches in world. God blessed her with her babies, and she would do everything to love and keep them safe.

The trail became darker the further from town she got, but she knew it was not long before the lantern in her window would light the rest of her way home. The home was small, but she didn’t need much. She had enough land for chickens and vegetable garden. Mr. Marshall was kind enough to buy her extra eggs when there were some. In the last year, she managed to save her chicken money in a jar that she buried in her garden. As the town continued to grow in population, so did the riff raff that made her not trust any strangers, especially ones like Mr. Philip Roberts. Molly didn’t even trust the bank with her money, but she’d keep enough in there to divert any attention to her keeping a stash at her home. Molly knew she was quiet, which many mistook for simple-mindedness, but she wasn’t ignorant to any degree about what was happening around her. Many didn’t realize that she was educated and what she didn’t learn in school, her husband taught her.

Finally, the lantern from the window shone down the path. Molly was always relieved when the light would come into view. She knew it wasn’t necessarily safe for a woman to be walking alone after dark, but she didn’t have choice. Living close to town, she sold her horses after her husband died as she needed to money for taxes and food. Besides, she could walk, and the children were old enough to walk to school which was slightly closer than her job at the mercantile.

Walking through the door, she was greeted by her youngest, Grace, first. She was six now, and very helpful around the home with her chores. Standing only a couple feet shy of her mother, Grace hugged her tightly upon her arrival.

Mama, Grace began. Thomas wouldn’t let me cook supper tonight. He made me stay in bed all day.

Molly grinned at her daughter as she ran her hand through her soft hair, then rested it on her forehead. It seems like your fever broke. Your brother was right to keep you in bed. That’s the only way you will heal. Besides, I think Thomas managed supper all on his own. Walking over to the table, she grinned at her son. It smells wonderful. I can’t wait to eat.

Thank you, mother. Thomas pulled out the chair for her to sit in. Come on, Gracie.

Molly watched her ten-year-old son pull the chair out for Grace then sat across from her. Once seated, they joined hands to pray. Dear Father, thank you for the blessings of my children and food upon our table. And let us pray for those less fortunate that they have a safe night that’s dry and there be food in their bellies. In Jesus’s name we pray, Amen.

Each one of the children said ‘Amen’ and then they ate and talked about their day.

Did Mrs. Butterfield check on you today? Molly asked Thomas.

Yes, mother. She was here for a couple hours with Ansel. She took care of Grace while Ansel and I fixed the hole in the chicken coop.

Very sweet of them. I need to think of something kind to do in return. They’ve been wonderful neighbors.

When they were close to being done, Molly bowed her head in thought.

Are you okay, mother? Thomas asked.

Molly looked at him with a soft grin as she nodded. I wanted to tell you two about something I’ve been thinking about.

Thomas and Grace glanced at each other knowing there was going to be a change with the way mother was acting.

I know we’ve lived here all of your young lives, but I was thinking about moving north, by your great-grandmother, she began.

Why? We know everyone here. This is home. Thomas sighed heavily, sitting back in his chair.

Things are changing in this town and it’s not…safe, like it was before. Rumor is that they are going to be bringing in slaves at the port. And that doesn’t always bring the best folks into town. I won’t be able to walk home alone anymore, as it won’t be safe. Do you understand?

Yes, mother, Thomas answered as Grace simply nodded.

I’ll have to send word to my grandmother and see if she wouldn’t mind us living with her until we can find us a home to buy, depending upon the price. I’ve been saving as much money as possible for this. I’m certain I could fetch a fair price for our home here. I think it will be for the best.

When? Thomas asked.

Spring or possibly early summer. Or we could wait until the fall, that way we can harvest our garden and take it with us. Molly looked at each one of her children for their input.

End of summer sounds good mother. Mr. Beacham said I could start working for him at the livery stable next month as he expected business to become robust. I could give you the money I make from that to help.

Molly reached her hand over softly touching her son’s cheek. You are becoming a fine young man. I’m proud of you. Let’s plan for the end of summer then.

48012.png

CHAPTER 2

T he next morning Molly woke at sunrise with Thomas as Grace continued to sleep. Together they worked on the morning chores outside before coming inside to get a fire going and make breakfast. Molly enjoyed this time with her son, teaching him the ways around the homestead. With his father gone, she knew she had to do this as it was her responsibility if she wanted to assure him to be a good man and provider when he was older. Albeit he resembled her in looks, but Thomas was like his father, gifted to talk with anyone at any time about anything, which amazed her. Molly was rather quiet, unsure of the words she spoke as she had struggled with self-confidence all her life.

When she learned of her husband’s death, she knew she’d be alone the rest of her life. Nobody understood her the way he did, and she really didn’t want to put forth the effort it would take to get to that point in her life with another man. Therefore, widowed she would stay.

Mother, there’s a man coming down our road on a horse, Thomas stated looking out the window as the dog barked.

Molly wiped her hands on her apron as she glanced out the window to see who was visiting. It was common for her neighbors to show up here and there throughout the week to check up on them, but this wasn’t a neighbor, this was the tall, skinny man from town. With a sigh, Molly closed her eyes and prayed that he wouldn’t be here long as she didn’t care for him, then she apologized for not liking the man. Something just gave her a bad feeling in her belly.

Thomas will you watch breakfast while I go see what he wants, please? Molly asked as she took off her apron and hung it beside the kitchen shelves.

Yes, ma’am. Thomas took her place at the stove and finished cooking.

Molly walked out to the porch closing the door behind her as the man dismounted his horse. She watched him take off his gloves as he walked closer.

Good morning, Ms. McBride, he began with a nod of his head as he respectfully took off his hat.

Good morning, Mr. Roberts, Molly replied with a nod of her own as he stood at the bottom step to the porch. It was then that she noticed his receding hairline by his temples. There was still a fair amount of hair on the top of his head, but she knew this man would be bald if he made it to his sixties. Early to be out and about.

Philip Roberts grinned as he held his head high and browsed around at the scenery. Molly McBride had a small, but perfect piece of land that sat up from the river to avoid flooding but had a continuous flow of water year around. He noted there was a modest barn, chickens, a couple hogs, but no horses. There were matured shade and fruit trees here and there, currently barren since it was still considered winter.

I am an early riser. There is always business to be conducted and the sooner the better. With that said, I come to you with a proposition. Philip paused a moment as he studied her. He made his wealth by being able to study people and predict what their reactions would be and so far, in his life, he has never failed in his predictions. People were very predictable, especially given the right financial encouragement.

Having learned that Molly was a widow for the better part of a year now and she had two children that she was devoted to, he figured money might persuade her to his employ. Locally, she was known for her adept bookkeeping skill for which she worked for several of the businesses to make money to support herself and children. It is said that she was comfortable.

Ms. Molly I’ve come to offer you a job… he began.

Molly cut him off immediately. Thank you but I have a job, several in fact that I enjoy very much. Your offer falls upon deaf ears I’m afraid.

Mr. Roberts grinned with a purse of his lips. He didn’t like to be interrupted and was doing his best to maintain his composure. May I at least tell you my offer, and ask that you think about it for a few days before abruptly saying no?

Molly’s stomach knotted and she knew this man was sent by the devil himself. Of course, how rude of me. Please continue?

Thank you, he curtly stated as his brows jetted upward. I plan on being in town for business for a few years, just to get this set up and moving profitably. I hear you are the best bookkeeper in town, and I would like to retain your services. The pay is excellent. I guarantee you won’t make the kind of money I’m willing to pay you anywhere else in this town. The hours can be flexible, as I know you have children, but I would prefer you to work in the mornings. Every now and again, I would need you on a Saturday, depending on when the shipments would arrive. If by the off chance a shipment arrived on a Sunday, it would be held until Monday, as I do not work on Sundays. God did declare that as a day of rest I believe.

And what is your business, Mr. Roberts? she asked crossing her arms already knowing the answer.

I’m a man with a variety of businesses, but in this town, I am an importer/exporter of good and slaves, he answered honestly as he found no shame in this.

Slaves, from over the seas, correct? she asked.

Yes, he answered. Is there a problem with that. It is legal according to the laws of the land.

Molly nodded. Yes, sir, it is. But is it legal according to God’s law? I can’t imagine Him wanting people to own other people.

Mr. Roberts lips twisted slightly as she was going to be a tough one, but he always got what he wanted one way or another. You have such a simple mind, Ms. McBride. Slaves have been a tradition of the world for longer than either one of us can recall.

All Molly wanted was for this man to leave her land and never come back as he was not a good man. That doesn’t mean we must continue with this ancient tradition. I don’t need a few days to think about your offer, Mr. Roberts, as I’m not interested. Thank you for your generosity, but I plan on moving north and I won’t be here after the fall. It’d be best if you found someone else.

Molly, I’m not going to accept that as your answer. Think about this and I will come speak with you on Monday. Enjoy your weekend. Mr. Roberts put his hat back on, tipped it to her, walked back to his horse and mounted it.

Molly sucked in her bottom lip as she watched him ride off as the sun shone bright red through the clouds to the east. It felt as if a messenger from the devil just paid her a visit. Shaking off the uncomfortable feeling, she walked into the house.

Who was that, mother? Thomas asked as he put the breakfast on the table.

That was no one important to us, but, just so you know, his name is Philip Roberts and he offered me a job, she shared.

Doing what?

Bookkeeping, she sighed with a shrug. I’d make more money, but I don’t agree with what he sells.

Thomas queried an odd look at his mother waiting for her to continue.

He sells people, Thomas, slaves. ‘Tis not right and I want nothing to do with that.

Yes, ma’am, Thomas nodded.

The money would be nice, but I won’t sell my soul to the devil for it. Molly took a breath and smiled as Grace finally walked into the kitchen. Wrapping her arms around her daughter, she kissed her head. Good morning, sleepy-head.

Morning, mother, Grace answered as they sat down for breakfast.

The weekend progressed quietly, and Monday morning Molly walked into town to work with Frederick at the mercantile. Mondays were always busy and today was no exception. It wasn’t until after two that she was able to sit down and update the bookkeeping from the previous day. After discretely handing him the deposit from the day before, she helped the customer so he could put the money in the safe, that was in the back room.

With Mr. Marshall away, Molly glanced up to spot Philip Roberts walk into the store. With an inward sigh, she finished with the customer before putting her attention to Mr. Roberts. May I help you with anything?

Yes, Ms. Molly, Philip eyed her with a snicker. I spoke earlier with Frederick about starting an account here. I would like to pay a month estimate in advance today.

Very well. Let me get Mr. Marshall. He likes to handle the accounts up front.

As Molly went to leave, Philip stopped her by gently touching her arm. I can wait. I know how to enjoy the company of a beautiful woman.

Molly grinned as she tried to avoid rolling her eyes. Your compliments, sir, won’t sway my mind to your favor. Is there anything else I can do for you, Mr. Roberts?

Ms. Molly, I do like you. Most prefer to be in my company but you, I’m afraid, do everything to avoid it. It’s very curious indeed. I’m quite certain it is my choice in business commodity that has you soured against me. I’m very good at what I do, Molly. And I assure you, it would be in your best interest to at least try to not be repulsed by my presence.

After taking a breath, Molly gave him a small grin as he was correct. I apologize. I was not raised to be that rude.

I’m not a bad man, Molly. I’m a businessman, that’s all. I would like the pleasure of your company for supper tonight, if you don’t already have plans. Perhaps if you got to know me on a personal level, you might not be so repelled by my business side.

Oh, I don’t… Molly struggled to find the right words to say no without being completely insolent.

It’s just supper, Molly. I would like to get to know you better, too. Philip awaited her answer knowing she was searching for a reason to say no to him.

Without the right words coming to her mouth, she gave in. Fine, supper. I work until four.

Philip grinned with his thin lips. I’ll have my carriage pick you up from your home at five. Supper will be at six. I’ll keep it early for you as I know you have children to get home to.

Molly nodded as Frederick walked up beside her. With a sigh of relief, she wished he would have been here ten minutes ago.

Mr. Roberts, Frederick shook his hand. Was Molly able to assist you with your needs today?

Philip smiled at Molly, then devoted his attention to Frederick. Yes and no. I came to set up my account, but I wanted to pay you up front for the first month of supplies. My head servant, Bessie May, will be the one to come in for the supplies. I don’t usually like to deal with things of this nature unless it is for something special. Philip quickly glanced at Molly as she quietly remained by Frederick’s side. Or perhaps I’ll stop by just to see Ms. Molly.

Yes, Frederick nodded with a sincere smile to Molly. Everyone in town loves our Molly.

So, I’ve learned. She’s having a hard time warming up to me but perhaps supper tonight with change that. Philip’s eyes went from Molly back to Frederick.

Supper? Frederick inquired, surprised.

Yes, I’m having Molly over for supper tonight. Hopefully, she will be a bit more receptive to me after she gets to know me better. Let’s go finish setting up this account, Mr. Marshall, I do have other business to tend after this.

Molly finally released her breath when they walked to the other side of the store. Closing her eyes, she prayed the evening would go quickly and she’d never have to see him again in this respect.

*

Mother, I don’t understand why you have to have supper with him if you don’t like him? Thomas asked.

Honestly Thomas, I couldn’t think of an excuse fast enough to say no. I must get better about that, she answered feeling a bit anxious.

Well, I don’t know if I like this. You said he was not a good man, yet you’re leaving to have supper with him. Father wouldn’t like this, Thomas sighed sitting in a chair by the fire.

Molly stopped what she was doing at the kitchen table and turned to her son knowing she needed to explain this carefully. Thomas, I wouldn’t be doing this if your father was still alive, but he’s not. This is just supper, nothing else, I promise you. Molly glanced down at him for a response.

Are you going to marry again? Some kids at school said their parents said a widowed woman your age should marry again so you have someone to take care of you. Is that true? Thomas sat upright as he asked this question.

Molly was taken aback for a moment as she processed what came out of his mouth. She didn’t like it when town folks talked about her but knew it was unavoidable. Wow, Thomas, I’m actually at a loss for words. Here’s what I know. I make enough money to support us living here, there is food in our belly’s, and we have a roof over our head. So, tell me, why do I need a man to help me do that when I’m doing it just fine without one?

Thomas smiled understanding, then softened his voice. Will you ever marry again?

I don’t plan on it. If I wanted to, it would’ve been to James when he asked months before.

Why didn’t you? he innocently asked.

Molly pursed her lips and glanced down for a moment trying to gather the proper words to use. I didn’t feel for James the way I did for your father. Yes, James has been a wonderful friend to us since your father passed and I love him dearly, but only as a friend. I couldn’t see myself loving him the way you love your wife or husband, in my case.

Their conversation was interrupted when they heard a carriage arrived at her front steps promptly at five. Molly opened her door to find a young girl standing before her with a rather large basket in her hands.

Good evening, ma’am, the girl stated kindly. Mr. Roberts’ requested that I stay to watch your children while you have supper with him. He sent me over with this basket of food for their supper. He didn’t want you to have to worry about them. Father likes his guests’ undivided attention when spending the evening with them.

Hmm, Molly muttered jetting her brows upward. Mr. Roberts is your father?

Yes, ma’am, Elsie is my name. The girl bit on her upper lip.

Come in, Elsie, I’m Molly. Molly opened the door all the way allowing the girl entrance. You can set the basket on the table. My children do not need accompaniment this evening. They know how to take care of themselves while I’m gone.

Please, ma’am, just let me stay. Father will lash me if I don’t. And please don’t tell him I told you that.

Molly noted how Elsie didn’t hold her eyes when speaking, they always looked downward in a submissive matter. Very well. How old are you, child?

Twelve, ma’am, she answered.

And where’s your mother? Molly was curious if Mr. Roberts was married.

Mother passed some years ago.

I’m so sorry. Your father is a widow then? Molly asked.

Yes, ma’am, she answered. My father hasn’t had a woman over for supper since mother passed. Perhaps you’ll be my new mother.

Molly grinned, shaking her head. You seem like a sweet girl, but I would never marry a man like your father.

Why’s that, ma’am? Is there something wrong with him? Elsie asked curiously as she thought her father was the best man she’d ever known so far in her young life.

Molly hesitated a moment as she realized what she said to Philip’s daughter. I’m so sorry, I didn’t mean to be rude. Your father is a fine man, just not for me.

Oh, okay, Elsie lightened. Perhaps after an evening with him, you’ll have a change of heart?

Molly grinned instinctively reaching her hand out to caress the naïve girls’ cheek. Perhaps. Let me introduce you to my children.

After Molly introduced Elsie to Thomas and Grace, she reluctantly left. Her mind wondered aimlessly on the ride to his home, which was on the opposite side of town from hers. Was he really looking at her to be his next wife? How could that even be possible? There was no way she would ever let that happen. Besides, he must have been fifteen or twenty years her senior.

Once the carriage arrived at the home, she recognized it immediately as it was the old Smithson home. Sadly, the family caught a bad case of influenza a few years back killing Mr. and Mrs. Smithson and their younger child, leaving only the older boy, Clinton to survive. After burying his family, he moved further south to live with his grandparents. Which made her wonder how he was fairing these days? Jolting back to the present, she was immediately greeted by a young man she presumed was another servant of Mr. Roberts. Kindly, he helped her from the carriage and up the steps where Mr. Roberts waited.

Ms. Molly, he stated taking her hand and kissing the top of it. Please come in out of the cold.

Molly let him guide her into the foyer of the home. It was a grand entrance with a circular staircase to the left, but a little much for Molly’s liking. With ease he helped her take off her coat and handed it to a young servant to hang in the closet off to the side. Thank you. Out of habit from her own home, she slipped her shoes off, then glanced at Philip as he stared at her. Do you not take your shoes off in your home? I apologize as it’s a habit I have at home. As she went to slip them on, he stopped her.

I apologize for staring, it’s customary in my home for all shoes to come off, but I always have to ask my guests. I suppose it was rather pleasantly unexpected that I didn’t have to with you. Philip took her hand, kissing it softly, then looked at another young servant girl. Please take Ms. Molly’s shoes and put them with the others.

Yes, sir, she replied taking the shoes and walking off.

Your home is lovely, she stated as he walked