A Chord of Melody

By Eleanor Lee Gustaw

Hidden secrets are revealed that are beyond anyone's imagination as Maggie and Daniel Danes continue to serve in the publishing field.

 Returning from a blissful walk to her beloved garden one morning, Maggie unexpectedly discovers an amazing reve

• Language: English
• Publisher: The Regency Publishers
• Release date: Jan 6, 2023
• ISBN: 9781960113146

Eleanor Lee Gustaw

The background setting of The Stranger relates to Eleanor's passionate love of Nature where she resides in a small, rural Manitoba town bordered by spacious woods. She acquired a love for reading long before she could read, and writing became second nature at an early age. The lovely poise of characters portrays a fluent thread of life's realism, poetically nurtured to Eleanor's deep intensity of highest excellence in mastering the art of articulative creative scenes signature to her unique style of writing. Loving animals has added a sweet portrait to the story, as well as publishing her first non-fiction book, A Patience Beloved. She's also published several short stories and poems in American Poetry Anthologies and local papers. The Stranger has been a personal triumph, where the power of love, faith, and family brings the scenes to life in unusual ways within the trust in knowing God's love is always present.

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Dedication

Sometimes, as an author, one is lost for words. But through prayer and spending time at the feet of Jesus, I have learned how to better hear and know God’s tender, loving voice, and to follow His very heart that inspires mine to every word within these stories.

To my beautiful, wonderful Heavenly Father, You are the gift to all these books that I’ve written through the years, and my heart is ever thankful! Through people I know and people I’ve met who inspired me to keep on writing, I’ve seen Your almighty hand of grace through the talent and prowess of my work. May A Chord of Melody touch many lives!

Thank You, dear God, for entrusting these amazing treasures to me that have come through this wonderful sequel within the worth of all You’ve given. You always have this amazing way of making ashes into beauty, and the least of what’s in my hands, to abundantly, overflowing blessings, because it’s more than enough within Yours! All You ask of me is the willingness to fulfill the call You placed in me as a writer. Upon every word, Your anointing Presence has gone before me, leading the way along Your omnipotent path of light!

Acknowledgements

To my dear Heavenly Father, for seeing so much more in my heart as an author than I ever could have imagined! I never dreamed I would create so many series, both in novels and children’s titles! Thank You for this amazing craft and the gift through the Holy Spirit that has been my guide through these incredible years of fashioning my work through time! No one else but You could ever have whispered the words contained within this story in creating this amazing novel!

As much as I adamantly told You that I would not create a sequel, because I was so exhausted in creating A Lost Love, You knew my heart; my willingness and obedience, to follow that path three weeks after completing it. Dear Father God, I would never have missed out on this wonderful opportunity; the beautiful work that You had in mind all along! Thank You so much for understanding my human frailty and the heart that shall never stop writing for You! I shall always honor You and keep telling of this wonderful story of how Your love came to the world for the redemption of humankind, and the gift of eternal life You came to bring. The world assuredly needs the truth of Your Light, Love, and Goodness!

To my beloved darling, Ian West, for always lovingly encouraging me and believing in my craft. You are a blessing of immense treasure in every book I create in manifold of ways! And I’ve long since learned that, when God calls us, He empowers us to do things far greater than we could ever have imagined! With you at my side, I’ve been inspired to create material I never knew God put in my heart! Thank you for always being here for me, Ian, and inspiring my soul to create these lovely stories for Him!

To Brent Ward Grey, my dearest best friend with Ian, for always being right alongside me with Ian as I strive for excellence. I realize that I don’t perfectly succeed, but I have come to find that what we yield to God’s heart, He will take care of everything else; even our flaws and cracks, and use them for His glory!

Best friend, when I was at a low point, you graciously encouraged me by writing me a note in recognizing that I was doing a perfectly good job. You very sweetly, and respectfully, reassured me that I should trust myself in my work. It was an amazing breakthrough in that moment that I’ve never forgotten! I even made a handwritten duplicate of it, where I keep one with me while I work at the office, and the other copy taped to my wall, where I work at home. It’s been my redeeming grace too many times to count!

To this day, I refer to that wonderful note, where it shall always remain with one taped on my wall, and the other with me at the office, because it’s so precious and meaningful to me! Thank you, my dearest best friend! Your words offered courage to my heart when I so needed them, strengthening and sustaining my backbone to keep keeping on with my writing, and to have faith in my abilities in God’s grace. Thank you for knowing my heart in such a lovely way, best friend!

To my mother, Bernice, who was always here for me as I sometimes tested ideas out on her and pondered questions to affirm my thoughts. For the love of my craft, I’m very thankful that you were here to read my books, and the ones yet to be written on the other side of Earth with the angels now gathered round about you in Heaven!

To my beloved Marty Cooper, who I shall ever love and miss in this extraordinary gift of friendship. You have always been at the heart of everything I am and do, just as my mom was, too! Like a close sister, you’ve always been here for me, Marty. You have always meant the world to me and ever shall!

Author’s Note

Ethel Rodriguez’s English began as a typing error in how she misspoke. Usually, I would have immediately made the correction. But as I began A Lost Love, the ideas were flowing so fast, I decided to finish the material in my mind first this time, reread the content, and then decide. When I did, it had a natural beauty and fluency, and I loved it! So, I kept Ethel’s character as a beautiful Hispanic that sometimes got her English wrong, yet Maggie often was amazed and saw it as a special gift in the way Ethel expressed her heart.

In essence, the mistake wasn’t a mistake at all, but rather, it was God’s divine hand at work as a special anointing over every word! I have to thank the Lord and say, Amen, to that! And so, within this sequel, A Chord of Melody, Ethel’s English continues to fall short at times, although it gradually improves since she has wed her beloved Tom in the original title!

All the poems and stanzas of music created in this novel were written by the author.

– Eleanor Lee Gustaw

A Chord of Melody – Adult

A fictional romance novel.

Other titles by Author Eleanor Lee Gustaw:

Youth to Adult: The Stranger Saga – Fictional Romance

The Stranger

A Rookie’s Daughter

A Rookie’s Son (Upcoming)

And Then There Were Four (Upcoming)

Adult – Fictional Romance

A Lost Love

A Chord of Melody

Children to Adult: The Sundog Snow Adventure Trilogy

The Sundog Snow Adventure

A Cherry Pie and Mr. Crumble (Upcoming)

The Threesome Adventure (Upcoming)

Children to Adult:

The Mystery of Robby’s Shoe (Upcoming)

Children to Adult – The Color Series:

Mr. Yellow Saves the Day (Upcoming)

Mr. Lopez and the Red Apple (Upcoming)

Under the Author’s pseudonym, Lee H. Johnson

Children to Adult: Hope’s Lantern series

Hope’s Lantern

Hope’s Lantern Lives (Upcoming)

A Gift of Hope (Upcoming)

Harry’s Apple Tree (Upcoming)

A New Christmas (Upcoming)

Chapter 1

A Forgotten Song

Through an open window, simple, yet entrancing strains of a lovely melody flowed on the air, beautiful and eloquent, soft and gentle. The mesmerizing melody held me in its momentary spell as I wondered who could be seated at the piano.

I was just returning from an exhilarating walk through the extensively picturesque garden that I had come to cherish so. It was Saturday morning and my husband, Daniel Danes, had left about an hour after we’d had our breakfast to prepare for Monday’s Board meeting at our publishing firm.

I won’t be long, my darling Maggie, he lovingly said, kissing me.

Alright, I said, but hurry home! He left my side and exited the mansion that we lived in – the mansion that he’d inherited from his grandfather, Noel Danes.

Deep in thought, I paused before the Drawing Room, where a piano had been covered ever since Dan’s sister, Julia, had gone to her home in Heaven. I knew the pianist wasn’t Dan since he was at the office. And only the sweet little girl, Blossom, was in the house with Ethel Rodriguez, our cook, who oftentimes took on the role as her Nanny. In all the years I’d known Ethel, she never once mentioned to me that she played an instrument, and I hardly thought that it could be Blossom. Perhaps, a friend had stopped by while I was enjoying the glory of spring’s beautiful blossoms.

The song wasn’t familiar to me, but it held a haunting, yet beautiful melody that aroused a sense of hope and joy inside my soul. When I entered the house, I slipped off my shoes and stepped into my slippers. Taking off my jacket, I hung it on the rod in the closet of the spacious foyer.

I peeked in the kitchen to see if Ethel was busy with something, but it was empty. Perhaps, she was attending to our son, Carlos Daniel, that I’d given birth to only a few weeks earlier.

I quietly made my way to the Drawing Room and stood frozen to the spot as I noiselessly peered in. The window was open, and the light of the sun was streaming through onto a slight figure. Could it truly be? I asked myself. I hesitated, not wanting to disturb the silhouetted individual at the piano who was caught in the dazzling sunlight streaming into the room.

The music began to flow again, repeating the chords of elegance within the melody. I was transfixed, holding my emotions in check as I placed my hands over my heart. Then, I couldn’t resist another moment, and I ran to my beloved daughter’s side, sitting down beside her. Blossom, how beautiful! I tenderly said, as tears began to mist my eyes. Wherever did you learn such a lovely melody?

My mother and I wrote it together, she admitted, pausing with her hands on the keys. Turning to me, she looked into my eyes, and I saw a trace of pain reflected in her own.

It’s . . . it’s so unusual and intriguing, I said. May I see the music, please? I gently asked.

Reaching for the sheets, Blossom handed them to me. I wasn’t much for understanding music, but I did love to sing and had performed countless times on different platforms as a young girl, so I understood this child’s yearning heart to express her song in music through the piano. At the extreme right-hand top corner, I could just make out the date and Julia and Blossom’s names as the composers. It took my breath away as emotion swept over me, and I was totally taken aback.

Would you hum the melody for me, Blossom, and I will try to sing along with the words?

Unsure for a moment, she bit her lip and tears misted her eyes. But she braved up and began to hum the words. The title, Music of the Heart, gripped me as my eyes roved over the words. They were both intriguing and remarkable, and I pondered both the heartbreak and the joy in them. After I had reached the bottom of the music sheet, I turned to the next page, and tears burst in my heart to the joy as the words continued to bless my soul. My eyes were a blur with tears, and I handed Blossom back the sheets.

Oh, Mom, she cried with me, why are you crying?

Because I began, composing myself, because it’s so beautiful and moving. It touches the very core of my heart!

My mom and I wrote the words, too, she volunteered before I could ask her. But I’m not quite sure what they mean.

Well, I said, drying my tears, first, the title is incredibly special. It conjures up so many different thoughts. Now, I said, let me see if I can properly explain it. Here, I said, reading the first stanza to my adopted daughter. It says:

Beauty of the heart I see in everything so good and dear.

And if I listen err to hear, sweet music flows within the sphere.

For there I find my soul’s blest love,

In you, sweet child, from Heav’n above.

Your mother was writing about when you were born, right, Blossom? I asked. Blossom nodded, and I continued, And she’s expressing the joy of her heart in you!

Yes!

Now, the second verse, did you write these wonderful thoughts? I asked, reading them over.

I did, yes. My mom wanted us to share both the words and the music, but she had to help me a little bit. Reading the words, I felt breathless with praise to God in the joyful picture it portrayed.

I love the woodland, birds, and flowers.

The joy of every season; April showers!

Such joy each day I’ll hold so dear,

And cherish every gift that’s near!

It’s just amazing! I said, catching my breath. Did you write this all by yourself otherwise; I mean, the ideas?

Mmm hmm. I’ve always loved the woods and birds. I thought about the changing seasons and that April usually doesn’t have any snow. Just rain showers. And I also remembered how my mom and I planted flowers in the springtime together. It was so much fun and gave me so much joy. I thought about that, and my mom helped me a little bit with the last line.

Astonished, I replied, I believe that God has truly blessed you with an immense gift, Blossom. If you like, I’d love for you and your uncle and I to write a song one day, too. And you and he can write the music together.

You, too! she exclaimed.

Laughing, I said, Well, perhaps, just a little!

My mom wrote the next verse, Blossom said. What does ‘a sliver of the moon’ mean? It doesn’t hurt, does it?

I laughed at her innocent wit, then answered her question. No, Blossom. The moon doesn’t have pain because it doesn’t get hurt. We know that can’t happen. But the word also has a different definition or meaning. I’ll show you one night when the sliver appears, I said. What it really means is that just a little portion of the moon is visible.

Maybe you could draw a picture for me? she suggested.

Laughing, I agreed. I could surely do that! I smiled.

Like a sliver of the moon at night

And twinkling stars glistening bright.

Enchanting treasure of my heart,

My perfect gift to never part!

The next verse gripped the depth of what I was feeling, and I understood its stark and haunting significance all too clearly. Julia had nearly lost Blossom as she carried her, and she found her answer in the grace of God’s heart as she trusted Him to bring them through.

Where can my heart go from here?

The cry of every fallen tear.

Where can a secret treasure be?

The one I nearly lost in thee.

The last verse of the song Blossom and her mother had written together. I loved the fluency and the joy lent within the verse that added that haunting melody to the music.

To every shimmering star at night,

To every prayer we hold in might.

God’s Breath upon our hearts shall sing,

To worship Him, our Lord and King!

I wrote about the stars, Blossom said.

Well, I think it’s just lovely! I replied. Maybe, you could play the song and we can try to sing it together, I suggested.

We were on the last verse when a gentle hand pressed lightly on my shoulder. I paused, turning to see who it was. His footsteps were so light, I hadn’t even heard him enter the room. Dan! I said. Tears filled my eyes as he lovingly looked into mine.

Oh, my! he exclaimed. I’d forgotten all about this beautiful song.

Blossom arose and hugged her uncle.

Blossom, if you don’t mind, sweetheart, would you please give me a little time alone with Maggie?

She peered into his eyes and then into mine. Sure, she said, hugging us. Her footfalls lightly touched the floor as she disappeared moments later.

Sitting next to me on the piano bench, Dan softly whispered, I love you, Maggie! I didn’t know that you and Blossom were in here at first. Ethel just told me.

Ethel? That’s odd. After my walk, I couldn’t find her when I came back, and I heard music through the open window. I had no idea that Blossom could play the piano . . . or that Julia . . . But I couldn’t finish my sentence as he held me in his arms and the tears freely flowed.

We almost lost Blossom, he consoled me. It was an exceedingly challenging time. Her husband had left her right after he learned they were expecting her. I didn’t take much of a fancy to that man of hers and she realized what a terrible mistake she’d made. But when we learned about Blossom, we were so excited! About seven months into the pregnancy, Julia began to have problems. I’d come home to check a file I’d been working on at home just after eleven o’clock that particular morning. I thought I’d say hello to Julia, but she didn’t answer when I called. I checked the kitchen and found her collapsed on the floor. I immediately rushed her to the hospital. The doctor later confided to me that both Blossom and Julia would have died if it had been much longer.

How dreadful! Oh, Dan . . .

"We immediately called for prayer and Julia later told me that when she gained consciousness and realized what had happened, she prayed like never before. ‘But I will trust God in this,’ she had said, ‘and trust that you will, too, Dan. I don’t want to lose my precious baby, but we need to surrender her to Him, because that is the best place for her to be.’

Well, it was extremely hard, but that was the turning point. Julia immediately began to improve. Most doctors would keep the patient in the hospital until the child was born, but Julia did so well, she was permitted to go home. However, I insisted that she and Blossom come to stay with me and Ethel. I decided to work from my home, caring for her with Ethel the best we could. Blossom was born at full term, a lovely and beautiful, perfectly healthy baby girl. So, you can see how very special she is to us.

I’m more honored and humbled than ever to have this privilege to bring her up, I said, through my tears, and most especially, to call her my beloved daughter. Holding my precious husband, he held me close as we cried for the joy of God’s goodness in everything that had come to bring our lives such extraordinary joy.

There are seasons of profound difficulty and seasons of grace to sustain the heart’s bitter cry in them. I would never take my daughter in Blossom for granted. Hers was a heart full of sweetest joy, love, and adventurous curiosity, just as Dan’s boyhood days had been. Leaving it all at the cross, I bowed my head and whispered thank you to God for the treasure in this gift that had come in Blossom along with my beloved Dan!

One evening, I heard Dan humming the melody to Music of the Heart. I’d love to hear you sing the words with Blossom on the piano, I lovingly requested.

Oh! he said. I didn’t realize that I was humming the melody. But if your heart desires so, I shall be happy to oblige you. Blossom, too, I’m sure, he replied, smiling. Do you mind if we leave that for another day, though? I’m quite tired tonight. As you can attest, it was an exceptionally busy, but good day at the office.

Anything for you, my darling! I assured, hugging him. Another day will be fine.

Kissing me, Dan said, Are you about ready for bed, then, Maggie? I can’t wait to plop into bed with my lovely wife! he teased.

I was just about to get a drink of water first. Would you care for one, Dan?

Oh, sure! I can get it, he offered.

While Dan went to fetch the water, I peeked in on our sleeping baby. Carlos was so sweet and slept well through the nights, for the most part, anyway. I couldn’t have been more grateful for that! I stooped over the railing of the crib and lightly kissed my baby on his cheek. Carlos didn’t stir as I tenderly smoothed his lovely black hair until I heard Dan’s light footsteps down the hallway.

I hurriedly undressed, and slipped into my nightgown, grabbing my housecoat just moments before Dan promptly returned, carrying two frosty glasses of cold water. He patiently waited and handed me one as soon as I’d tied my robe over my gown. We sat on the patio on the other side of the exquisite French doors in our bedroom, taking in the beautiful scene as the evening descended. The air was warm and pleasingly tempting, as though inviting us to sit a while as we settled into the chairs around the little table. The lights from the patio that Dan had installed were soft and lovely, spilling over the entire area. In its glow, I looked across the table at my husband, and smiled. Then, I turned my eyes toward the beauty across the expanse of the extensive grounds, especially the entrancing garden I’d loved from the moment I’d come to work for the Mr., not knowing at that time that Dan was also my editor.

I was about to mention the cheery joy of the Victorian lamps along the pathways within the enclosed flower garden, when he broke into my thoughts. Taking a sip from my glass, I listened with interest as Dan began to share.

You know, Maggie, I insisted to Julia that she always sign and date every song she created. I’m so glad she did! I think her work would be very profitable for Blossom one day, and most importantly, to reach a world hungry for beautiful words and music as she and Blossom, sometimes created and composed together. I’ve really been thinking hard about this lately, and I’m determined that this song, amongst the many of Julia’s works, shall never be forgotten. If you’d like to read the songs, I’m sure that I can find them for you somewhere in her house. Perhaps, Blossom will know where her mother kept her music. For now, I’d like to enjoy this brief time with you. I didn’t mean to interrupt you a moment ago.

Smiling, his eyes twinkled, and I laughed. Oh, no, my darling! That’s perfectly fine! I’m happy that you shared this with me. I was merely going to express the impressive beauty of the flower garden with the Victorian lanterns lighting the pathways. Isn’t it gorgeous? And the slight wind that’s rustling the branches . . . such a poignant melody!

Laughing heartedly, Dan leaned over the table and kissed me. You’re something really special, my darling Maggie! I’m so glad I married you! And I couldn’t agree more. The evening is breathless in its beauty everywhere I look, whether at the glimmering stars in the sky or the garden, and across at Mr. Wests. I wonder . . . His thoughts trailed and I was curious.

Wonder, what? I asked inquisitively.

I know how much you love the wind to its every sway. Perhaps, one night, you’d dance amongst the flowers with me? And I have another idea. Mr. Ian Grey may be interested sometime to film just such a scene as this, Maggie. It would fill the heart with so much joy and wonder. I can see it in my mind. What do you think, my darling?

Oh! I exclaimed. Tears began to fill my eyes. That would truly be a gift of exquisite romance and joyful fun with you! I said. I can see it with you, too, Dan. But Mr. Grey’s finished all the filming he planned to do on our estate, including Harry and Anne Gerali’s meadowland.

I wouldn’t be too sure of that, Dan said, so quietly, I hardly caught his words. He had a faraway look in his beautiful, blue eyes. Somehow, I had this feeling . . . Dan may have something there, indeed!

Anyway, Dan came back on track with our present conversation, you know, it might be nice to invite Mr. West over for supper this week. It’s been a while since we’ve had a visit. He lifted his glass to his mouth and took a long drink. I couldn’t resist giggling.

What’s so funny? Dan questioned. Am I missing something here?

Oh, I’m sorry, darling! Ethel and I just visited him the other day while you took Blossom to the grocery store! But I’m more than happy to invite him! I’ll call Faisal tomorrow to check with him, okay?

A bit flustered, Dan blushed. Of course, Maggie! Whatever you wish!

Then we shall do it very soon, I smiled, looking into my beloved’s eyes as the night deepened. We stayed a while, enjoying the beauty of the evening before us until the darkness overcame the light, but for the Victorian lanterns glimmering against the darkness all around it. It was truly an enchanting portrait.

When we were settled in our bed, I tenderly said, I really appreciate you sharing about Julia with me, my darling. I have this feeling that God is going to use Blossom in a wonderful way with the music she shared with her mother. If this is truly a dream within her heart, we’ll need to encourage Blossom through the years.

Dan stared at me without saying a word. I began to feel that I had overstepped. Then, he lovingly drew me into his arms and kissed me. I’ve had that very dream for her since I saw firsthand how my sister and her loved to be at the piano, laughing and singing, adoring each other’s company. Julia always believed that her daughter was a natural on stage, and as you may already have heard, Blossom has a truly lovely, singing voice.

Tears welled in my eyes. I’m thrilled, my darling! Perhaps, we could gather the music, after you have found it, and we can celebrate the pieces that Julia created. That would be a wonderfully positive expression for all of us, especially for her daughter.

Yes, Maggie. Truly, this will be a positive experience and help to bring healing in the loss without my darling sister’s presence.

Then, Dan cried in my arms, and I cried with him, where A Forgotten Song would be celebrated in us once again, and in every piece my dear sister-in-law, with her beloved daughter, had created through the few, short years they’d had together. As I said to Dan, comforting him in these moments, there are going to be manifold of profound moments and tears as we discover the pages of Julia’s amazing heart through the music she loved and shared with her beautiful daughter, Blossom, who came as mine the day her uncle Dan and I had wed!

When Dan approached the subject of Blossom’s mother’s music to her the following evening, Blossom was enthralled.

Do you remember where your mom kept her music, Blossom? Dan lovingly asked his niece.

She had some of it in the piano bench. Hesitating, she added, I shouldn’t tell you ’cause she made me promise, but she also kept her best songs in a special place in the kitchen.

Crimping his brow, Dan glanced at me as we sat across the love seat in the Drawing Room with Blossom on the chesterfield. In the kitchen? That’s a funny place to hide something so special.

No, Uncle Dan. My mom always told me it was the best place because no one would ever dream it was right there in plain sight for anyone to see. She chuckled then said, ‘Just imagine, darling Blossom! It makes me smile to think that, hidden away, all unsuspecting, the music is nearer than one would dare to think!’ she said, giggling.

Well, do you know where that secret place is?

She had a long, colored plastic box that she hid in the flour.

The flour? Blossom, that sounds very far-fetched. You are assuredly mistaken!

I’m not! she said, a bit out of humor, defiance flashing in her eyes.

I didn’t mean to upset you, Blossom, but I don’t understand, Dan said. Every time she took it out it would have been terribly messy with all that flour. I lovingly placed my hand on his as we waited for Blossom’s answer.

Well, that’s where she kept it! Mom said she wouldn’t need to see the music for a long time. ‘Not until I can sell it to someone who will buy it for the soul of what it’s worth,’ is what she told me. And she made me promise that I would never tell anyone, not even you, Uncle Dan.

I guess that’s all we need to know for now, Dan said, but Maggie and I appreciate you telling us. Now, it’s your bedtime, so we shall say goodnight to you.

When Blossom was in bed, Dan and I quietly talked it over. The house is no longer up for sale, I began.

With a concerned expression, Dan added his own sentiments. That’s right, Maggie. In only three weeks, the new owners will take possession. We must look for that music as soon as it’s daylight until we find it! he said with determination, pursing his lips.

And if we can’t find it, then what, Dan? I hardly dared to ask.

We search until we do!

That’s quite an odd place for Julia to have hidden her music, I commented. Do you really think she did?

I’m more certain of it than ever! Dan emphatically said. Or at least something similar to that scenario. Laughing softly, he explained. "I’d completely forgotten how Julia was always hiding her ‘special secrets,’ as she told me and my brothers when we were growing up. I hardly reckon that any child could even think up such a thing, so I believe Blossom without any reservations for the most part, that is.

Why, I remember one time how Julia got so riled, I hardly knew what to think! And it was mainly due to that brother, Justin, who stirred up the whirlwind full force that Cole had started!

Really? I asked, laughing.

Oh, yes! Really, my darling! See, Julia had a diary and one day she caught Cole in her bedroom, reading it. She was so livid, she said she’d never speak to him again!

And where were you? I teasingly tested him.

Me? Come, now, Maggie, why I was the perfect child of innocence!

Yes, I think you were, for most of the time, anyway, I giggled, considering his sweet disposition, but I couldn’t resist joshing him!

As I recall, I was helping my mom to set the table. Cole said he’d check out Julia’s diary and tell me about it after supper when she’d go outside to play. I tried to discourage him, but he had to have his fun. He was always a bit of a mischief maker and tease. I didn’t like it and I didn’t always trust him, Dan reflected. "Moreover, Cole even had the audacity to say that if I wanted to be a goody-two-shoes all my life, that was fine with him, but he wanted to be adventurous, and see what secrets Julia might be keeping from us.

"Well, my dear brother failed to understand that just because I didn’t want to go along with his devious ways, it didn’t mean that I wasn’t adventurous! Quite frankly, that had nothing to do with it! For myself, I figured our sister had just as much right to her secrets, as Cole did.

"‘It’s not really snooping,’ he’d suggested, arguing his objective to sidestep the issue, ‘just keeping one step ahead of her.’ He looked at me and taunted, ‘After all, Dan, I really only just got a tiny peek at the first page when Julia found me in her room.’ Smirking, he finished, ‘I’ll be a bee in a bonnet on a balmy day if I know what sis has taken so much care to write in her diary and think she can keep to herself, to boot!’

But Cole wasn’t one to think things through, not realizing that by playing out his actions, he wouldn’t want the tables turned. I almost wished he did have a diary, and I could give him a taste of his own misguided, disdainfully scheming, and wildly, unrestrained, unruly thinking!

Dan paused and I couldn’t keep from laughing. That’s a heap of bold, descriptive adjectives! I teased. But I certainly understand your view in it! You’re such a good man, my darling! I’m proud of you!

Dan didn’t appear phased and continued. "In a sense, he’d put me in a very delicate situation, and I didn’t like it. I firmly made up my mind to stay out of his hair. Cole had a one-track mind at such times. I knew that he was stubbornly adamant in contriving this scheme with utmost determination.

"I’d always been especially fond of Julia, as you know, and we got along very well. I saw no reason for that to change, but the way Cole was acting, I hardly ventured to think how that might end! I could never infringe on her privacy, even by a thread.

"However, that was both the challenge, as well as part of the fun for Cole, daring to see how far he could go without being caught. Even though it meant another ploy a second time around, nonetheless, he didn’t seem to care one jot about it! A sure fire for trouble, he had some nerve!

"But Julia didn’t catch Cole that evening, or any other evening, for a fact. I’ve always wondered why. Perhaps, he changed his mind, but I honestly don’t think I’ll ever truly know.

"Much to my astonished chagrin, she did catch my twin brother, Justin, rifling through her diary the following week. I sometimes privately questioned in my mind whether or not Cole had put him up to it, just daring to see how far they could get. Always so laid back and honorable, it took some time for me to get over it, I’ll admit, and I was extremely disappointed in Justin.

I might have told him so straight out that night, but Julia was livid enough for the two of us, and I thought it quite sufficiently sufficed, at the least, in that moment! With the tongue-lashing Julia gave him, as perfectly innocent as I was, believe me, darling, Cole, and certainly not me nor Justin, ever found the courage to trespass with that diary or anything else of hers, ever again! In my opinion, that tongue-lashing was a risk infinitely too great to contend with! Dan ended.

Laughing as tears filled my eyes, it amused me that I was honored to have married the best of the Danes’ brothers! My goodness, darling! I said, shocked. Julia was so sweet, but I’m glad to hear that she had the fire in her spirit to defend herself against your brothers! Sometimes, a spark of spitfire goes a long way, as it did with your siblings! I’m with Julia on that without question! I added, laughing.

I kissed my beloved, my heart still aglow with the childhood sentiments that many of us live out in that time. Inwardly, I was as proud as a peacock to have that identical honor in my sweet, innocent husband that he still upheld to this very day! Little wonder that he and Julia got along so well! They were honorable from their childhood, supporting each other into adulthood. Incomparable blessings I saw between them to every time and every way!

And I be supposing, I post scripted in my thoughts, that Cole and Justin were the two bad apples contending against the two good apples in Dan and Julia! The spitfire evidently got the better of the rotten cores, I grinned! It always would!

As I was washing the supper dishes the following evening, rinsing the last plate, I couldn’t help but wonder if Justin had ever apologized. But that was surely left alone for another day, if at all. Perhaps, it was best to completely leave that thought to myself. But if it ever up again in conversation, I would do my best to ask my darling Daniel Danes, without a doubt!

Smiling to myself, I reached for a tea towel, beginning to dry the plate when something came over me. Dan walked into the kitchen at that moment, and I couldn’t keep from giggling.

Is something funny? he asked.

Well, I said, trying not to laugh, I don’t like to share my every thought, even with you, my darling! I mysteriously teased.

Oh, come now, Maggie! It can’t be that bad! Out with it! His eyes were pleading, yet teasing, and I hardly dared express my thoughts.

You needn’t know everything, Daniel Danes! I asserted, my eyes smiling, putting him off.

Huh! he returned. If that’s the way you feel about it, you’d better quit laughing behind my back, Mrs. Danes! he lightly scolded, his voice rising. I just might take offense! he added.

I see! Have it your way, Dan, if you must, my love! I shot back. That brother of yours was a bad apple if I ever did see! Both, in fact! I said. But I wonder if Justin, in particular, is still the same today?

Dan’s expression instantly changed to momentary shock, and I just knew I had to be in trouble with him in half a lamb’s shake! But I wasn’t worried; I could handle Dan without a qualm! Much to my surprise, however, he burst out laughing seconds later, holding onto the table for support, his sides almost splitting! I didn’t know what to make of it at first.

What’s so funny that it seems to have gotten your goat? I asked, frowning.

When he composed himself enough to tell me, Dan said, Why, Maggie dearest, that exactly fits him! I sometimes wonder which of my two brothers was the worst of the two! It was obvious throughout our childhood years that Cole was a troublemaker, so I usually knew where I stood with him. But under Justin’s unwaveringly innocent-like exterior, he was crafty as a fox, like a wolf in sheep’s clothing, and I dare say that it surely makes him the worse bad apple of the two! Dan was laughing again, but I remained calm for the moment taking it in, visualizing the scene in my imagination.

Putting the plate in the cabinet that I’d been holding in my hand all this time, I closed the cupboard door and turned to face my husband. I saw the tempting twinkle in his eyes, and suddenly, I couldn’t help myself, bursting out laughing right along with him! And I supposed if truth be told, that miniscule traces of those bad apple traits may assuredly run off-course in mischievous behavior to that regard in each of us. Just as too much salt spoils food, so it is that all it takes is one bad, rotten apple to the core to spoil life’s sweet flavor! But I wonder just how hard and deep enough we must look to ever see that reflection in the mirror of our day to day lives!

After we’d had our fun, I sternly said, Don’t you dare tell your brothers about this, Daniel Danes, or you’ll have me to contend with! I’ve got the identical spitfire in me as Julia did, so you wouldn’t want to walk on thin ground with me!

Dan burst out laughing as I ranted on.

Goodness only knows what conniving nonsense those brothers of yours might play on me next time we meet! I chuckled. I treasure my peace and quiet and there’s no need to disturb the dust for such ridiculous, childish tomfoolery as that! I determinedly exclaimed. I would think it should be finished with them by now that they’re adults and married with children! I further surmised.

Come here, my darling! Dan said. He wrapped me in his arms and kissed me so long that I thought I’d never breathe again! Perhaps, there was a slight bruise of a bad apple tendency in him as well! Hmm. For the good, I cheerily smiled to myself! After all, a bruise on an apple could be cut off and still find that delicious satisfaction in it! I always thought that Dan’s apple was about as sweet and pure as one could be! You’re all I want right now, my love, Dan gently said, and I promise to never tell! he teased.

I leaned in close to him and whispered, I’ll be holding you to that, my darling!

Passionately kissing me, he said, I hope this seals it with my kisses to you?

Mmm hmm. Perfectly! I smiled. I couldn’t imagine living under the old dictum of marking it in a blood oath! But I think it’s safe to say that your brothers inherited the bad genes in those apples and fortunately, you didn’t. Good thing, too, because I don’t think I could take anymore of that intolerantly naughty, and very childish behavior! I emphatically said in playful jest. And just perhaps, darling, Cole and Justin have reformed, at least enough to not play such ridiculous monkeyshines anymore!

Rather taken aback, Dan commented, Monkeyshines, Maggie? Are you trying to be funny with me?

Not at all, Dan! I laughed. Surely, you know what I meant?

Of course, Maggie! Monkeyshines or pranks; it’s all the same! But what a scary word that is! he grinned. Why, my mind instantly is taken to a faraway place in some jungle. Even ‘mischief-maker’ is considerably tamer, I’d dare say!

I couldn’t help but giggle. Yes, Dan! As Ethel learned through the years, she’d flatly reply to the effect, ‘Another crazy English word, I see!’

Dan peered into my eyes, thinking the matter over thoroughly, before expressing his heart. When his words came, they filled my heart with joy. To those love and kisses, he softly whispered, I love you, Maggie Danes!

I love you, too! I whispered back. With all my heart! I was somehow assured that Dan’s brothers had grown wiser through the years, for the most part, I hoped. But even so, I still couldn’t keep from smiling as Dan lovingly answered me with a breathlessly long kiss rather than words!

Here, held within Dan’s love, to that Forgotten Song, we’d find blessings beyond our wildest dreams, ever waiting, where God was keeping us one day at a time, now, and in the future days to come. For all that fuss and spark in childhood years, I smiled, wrapped within my beloved’s love in these wondrous moments, my soul was at peace. But I couldn’t wait to see where our journey would take us next!

Chapter 2

Pickles and Funny Things!

You wouldn’t believe the people at the market! Ethel exclaimed one morning when she and Tom had arrived at our mansion for a luncheon with me and Dan. They were a little late, and I was soon to discover why. Taking a deep breath, Ethel detailed their shopping trip.

After Tom and I had collected our items, we slipped into line, which was unusually long this morning. Everyone appeared to be patient and kind, except for one particular woman. She was rather tall and slightly plump, and really quite pretty. I studied her for a few moments, thinking how lovely her long braided, brown hair looked. However, I thought her manner a bit too assertive, as she tried to push her way into the line out-of-turn, that I could hardly bear it!

A bit surprised, I laughed, trying to picture the scene with my dearest best friend, Ethel Rodriguez Wafer, keeping patience despite her Spanish thoughts! Her lovely husband, Tom, smiled and winked at me across the table!

Well, I was two people ahead of her, when she bullied herself right in front of me! The nerve of her! The man directly in front of me was roughly jostled, and he angrily expressed his sentiments. I didn’t think it was his place to take charge as he loudly said for everyone to hear, ‘Madame, if you don’t get some manners, we’ll have to teach you some straight away! Now, get to the back of the line this instant!’ I thought he was almost as rude as her! Ethel animatedly expressed her sentiments.

Ethel paused, crimping her brow, and I chuckled. Well, her face immediately flushed, and it first seemed apparent that she wasn’t going to take his advice one whit! She was about to spat back at him, when the pickle jar she was loosely clasping in her hand suddenly shifted. At that precise moment, her purse straps fell off her shoulder slipping down to her elbow, causing her to bump backwards into him. The pickle jar flew out of her hand whacking hard against the cart in its downward motion, with her purse still dangling from her elbow. Before she could stop it from happening, it noisily crashed to the floor and broke, spilling the contents all over the place.

Ethel took a breath, and I couldn’t help but laugh. What happened next? I asked.

"My goodness! The gusto completely went out of her, and she cried in frenzied alarm, ‘That was the last pickle jar on the shelf, and I need to have my pickles!’ Everyone except me was aghast and began to laugh at her. She adjusted her purse on her shoulder as tears came into her eyes and flowed down her cheeks. Then to everyone’s surprise, she said, ‘I truly apologize for my behavior. I didn’t intend any harm. I was merely in a hurry. I have company waiting at home – they arrived two days earlier than I expected, so I needed to quickly pick up a few things. My aunt loves pickles and gets cranky if they aren’t served. I ran out of my garden dills and decided to stop by here and pick up a few jars. I hope everyone will forgive me.’ Then, without saying a word, she slipped out of line and walked to the back to wait her turn.

Everyone quieted, turning their attention back to themselves.However, the lady next in line, waiting for the cashier to complete the transaction of her present customer, said, ‘If no one minds, I’m willing to give this lady my turn and I’ll take hers. I’m in no rush today.’ She walked to the end of the line as the incredibly surprised woman thanked her, and took her place next in line to the cashier. People began to clap, and the store manager, appearing on the scene, ordered a stock-boy to get a broom and dustpan. He swept up the glass and some of the pickles that had spilt out, while another employee arrived carrying a mop and pail, and swiftly cleaned the briny mess. ‘I’ll be glad to pay for the broken pickle jar,’ the woman said to the manager as she opened her purse. But the manager graciously smiled, replying that it was fine and of no consequence.

I see, I said. Well, dear Ethel, that’s a particularly relevant story. I also learned something good from it myself.

I’m so glad, Maggie, she shyly said, with a bit of a pleading tease in her words, because I have that woman in my house at this very moment, and as you know, I ran out of pickles myself just last week. I shouldn’t have, but I suddenly thought of you and promised her that I’d find a jar or two of pickles. Maggie, you won’t mind, and forgive me for assuming on you like this? she asked, with a seriousness in her tone.

Ethel’s innocent sweetness was charming of itself. With as much poise as I could muster, I patted her shoulder reassuringly. Oh! I exclaimed, understanding where this was leading. Well, Ethel, that’s overly sweet and kind of you! I’m always more than happy to share what I have! I grinned, teasingly.

Thank you! Ethel said, hugging me. "I knew your heart would understand and be glad to