Rachel's Fold

By Sarah Hale

Rachel's Fold follows the lives of four girls on the brink of adulthood.When Maddy, Gayle, Jillian, and Regan find themselves at Miss Webster's School for Young Women, they quickly see it is not for them. Attempting to find their place, the four sneak out of the school and board a ship for Spain. The plan is to be missionaries. Their dream is shattered when they arrive in war-torn Belgium during the Great War.Dropped in the middle of a ravaged country, they find themselves at the DeVoss field hospital. Dr. Levi DeVoss runs his hospital strictly by his rules. He needs nurses, not missionaries. The risk is too great to send them back. The only way to protect them is to keep them secluded at his compound—and away from the male species.Adjusting to the new way of life thrust upon them, the girls begin to learn the best-laid plans are God's plan. Working with their initial plan, they turn their sorrow into joy and their ashes to beauty. The four girls become women of strength. Will they all make it home? If they do, will their hearts be intact?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Christian Faith Publishing, Inc.
• Release date: Mar 16, 2021
• ISBN: 9781098067663

Book preview

Chapter 1

Indianapolis, Indiana

August 21, 1915

Maddy stood outside Miss Webster’s School for Young Women. After a long journey, she made it to her destination. She was so tired and so emotional she plopped down on the first step. Maddy removed the new boots her parents had bought her. Her old valise hit the ground with a hearty thud. The thing had more holes than a piece of Swiss cheese.

Her folks thought she needed a good pair of shoes instead of a new travel bag. As she rubbed her painfully sore feet, she was beginning to question her parents’ judgment. She indeed questioned their sanity when they decided to send her away to finishing school. She couldn’t believe they would send her so far from the ones she loved.

She rested her head on her knees and willed herself not to cry again. It was all she had done since she boarded the train.

Are you all right, miss? A gentle hand lay on her shoulder.

Maddy lifted her head. A young man stood before her—a somber sympathetic expression on a lovely face. Yes, I am fine. Thank you.

You don’t look fine. I take it you are a student at Miss Webster’s? Perhaps just arriving?

Yes, I just needed a minute to get myself together after a long trip.

Where are you coming from?

Colorado.

That is quite a trip. He looked up at the three-story building. This is a good school. You will enjoy your time here. Miss?

Madelyn Young. My friends call me Maddy.

It is a pleasure to meet you, Miss Young, I’m Luke—

The opening of the door stopped their conversation. A woman with sharp features stood on the stoop looking at the young man’s hand, clasping Maddy’s. Ms. Young, I presume?

Luke assisted Maddy to stand and handed her the valise.

Good day, Mr. Gately, Agnes Webster said, not in a mean tone but more in a dismissive tone of authority.

Good day, Ms. Webster, Ms. Young.

Ms. Webster motioned for Maddy to enter. Give your bag to Mrs. Lufton and join the others. We have been waiting for you to arrive.

The big receiving hall had fifteen girls with their eyes turned toward Maddy. One empty chair sat next to a petite brunette with scandalously short hair. Maddy quickly took her seat. The girl next to her smiled widely. Maddy returned the gesture with all the enthusiasm she could muster, which was very little.

Ladies, welcome to your new home. For the next two years, you will be under my charge. This institution is a private one, which means your sponsors have paid a great price to enroll you. Their expectations, as well as mine, are for you to leave here with the best education available. Your time here will give you an added advantage in life if you do not squander both the time and money. She stopped to stare at the crowd of girls. An opportunity wasted is a fortune wasted. Are we in agreement?

Sixteen heads went up and down.

We will proceed now with the rules to which we shall live by—this place recognizes the Holy Bible as our guide. I have divided you into groups of four. You are responsible for one another. If one breaks a rule, all will be punished. Punctuality and civility are a must. Disrespect will not be tolerated. You will be expected to study, learn, and participate in all activities. Community service will be part of your education. Young men are not allowed on the premises—her eyes found Maddy’s—unless authorized by me and will be supervised by myself or Mrs. Lufton.

This sounds more like the big house than a school, the brunette whispered.

Now we will take the roll. When I call your name, please stand.

Having the last name of Young, Maddy’s was the final one called. Once standing, Ms. Webster assigned each girl a group. The groups each had a name. These were Ms. Webster’s little lambs, so she put them in folds. There was Mary’s fold, Ester’s fold, Rebekah’s fold, and Rachel’s fold. Maddy was placed in the latter.

Mrs. Lufton will show you to your rooms.

The rooms were quint but small. There were four single beds and two closets. Each girl would share a small chest of drawers. The school required a uniform, and each girl had three sets. During the weekend, you were allowed to wear your clothing.

The uniforms were navy skirts with white high-collar shirts covered by a navy and red plaid vest. Maddy felt the material. She was glad it was the end of summer. The article would make the heat unbearable.

The rules kept coming. Breakfast was at seven sharp. That meant everyone had to rise early enough to share the two bathrooms. The classes started at eight. Lunch was at noon, and classes ceased between four and five in the afternoon. Supper was at six, and bedtime was nine.

Maddy looked at the room. Her valise had been placed on a bed next to one of the windows. She sat down and removed her shoes. The girl who occupied the other bed on her side of the room stood at the other window. A Bible in her hand, she leaned against the window seal, her head slightly bent, looking out. She had long red flowing hair that reached her waist. She was on the tall side and filled out very nicely. Maddy couldn’t help but stare. The girl looked forlorn.

I’m Madelyn Young, but my friends call me Maddy.

The girl turned and put the Bible on her nightstand, coming then to stand before Maddy. Abigayle—Gayle—Landry. She extended her hand.

It is a pleasure to meet you. Maddy gently shook Gayle’s soft hand. Maddy’s hands had been roughened by the hard work she did on the farm.

Where are you from?

Boom! A suitcase bounced off the bed adjacent to Maddy’s.

I knew it! The brunette, who referred to this as the big house, plopped onto Maddy’s bed. I knew we would be in the same group. I’m Jillian Grant, you’re Madelyn Young, and you are Abigayle Landry, right? Her smile was infectious. Her brown eyes were full of life and mischief.

Yes, that is correct.

A small-framed blonde entered the room. If she hadn’t caught the toe of her worn-out boot on the rug’s edge, no one would have known she was present.

Regan Reece, am I right? Jillian rose and took the girl’s small bag from her hand, placing it on the bed next to hers.

Yes. The girl’s voice was soft.

Jillian took her hand and brought her over to Maddy’s bed. Are any of us here because we want to be, or were we shipped here by well-meaning parents? The questions were a shocker for just meeting.

Oh, come on, I know distress when I see it. My ‘well-meaning’ aunt persuaded my parents to send me here after I came home with my new hairstyle. She ruffled her short hair. Too much of a tomboy. She imitated her great aunt. Better do something before it is too late. She made an accompanying face, evoking a giggle out of the rest. This is what Jillian Grant was good at, making them laugh. Okay, out with it. Who’s next?

My father remarried. He married a woman that I can give no respect. They didn’t want me around to spoil the honeymoon.

Ouch! Jillian reached to pull Gayle onto Maddy’s already crowded bed.

I had an elopement throttled. They want me to give it some thought. If at the end of the two years we still want to get married, we can. This will be the longest two years of my life.

Jillian tugged on Maddy’s long stringy hair. We will make it so fun for you. It will go by like that— She snapped her fingers. You’ll see.

Jillian turned to Reagan, expecting a story.

Mr. Babb, a former employer, is paying my way here. Reagan usually kept quiet, but the others had shared their stories, and she was going to be with them for two years. This is just another orphanage to me. She felt the eyes of pity staring at her. I have been in one ever since I can remember. At least this one will provide more education. Her smile was slight.

Oh no, it’s not. We will make this home. You just wait and see. Jillian turned to look at the other two girls. After a whole herd of older brothers, I’m finally glad to have some sisters. Her smile lit the room.

Maddy looked at Jillian. Some people just had it: that unique way of speaking and acting that commanded attention, but in the right way, drawing outsiders in and making insiders better. This might not be as bad as she anticipated.

* * * * *

They learned at supper that evening that life at Miss Webster’s was going to be a challenge. Everything they did was scrutinized. Ms. Webster either ate before or after her charges. This was done so she could correct any miscues in table etiquette. Mistakes were happening at the speed of a train. Not to mention her voice was like fingernails on a chalkboard.

No, no, no, Ms. Young, you are using the wrong fork.

Each time a correction was made, everyone was to stop. Once the offense was corrected, the meal could continue. If one dared to speak, the grammar was also corrected. The meal was a two-hour nightmare.

Breakfast the next morning was slightly better as all minded their manners, learning from their mistakes and keeping their mouth shut. Chapel services followed breakfast, then on to the studies. It was a broad range of classes, English literature, advanced history, Bible history, business affairs, and anatomy and physiology. The last was taught to only those who had an interest in nursing. Thank goodness Ms. Webster didn’t teach all the subjects. No one could endure that audible torture. A few local professors from the men’s college would come and lecture.

The ladies’ school was unique. It came highly recommended. Because it was so small, it afforded the ability for individual teaching. It was known for its well-rounded field of study and diversity. Pretty high praise for a school stuck in the middle of Indianapolis run by a total of three people. Oh, there was a board of directors, but the finely run school was the work of Ms. Agnes Webster and Mr. and Mrs. Lufton.

Ms. Webster was a tall, not-so-thin (but not fat) woman. Her brown hair was worn in a severe knot at the back of her head. A little wisp of hair would occasionally escape the bun and frame a round face. Her cheeks always had a splash of red spanning over her nose. It looked as if she was always a bit ill-tempered. She ran the school like a tight ship.

The Luftons were a slightly older couple who took care of everything from housekeeping to maintenance of the building. They seemed to be very nice but kept to their duties and themselves.

Rosalie Lufton was homey. That was the word the best described her. You felt you could fall into her arms whenever your world was collapsing, and she would make everything better. Her graying blonde hair was secured nicely under a little crocheted chignon. Her apron was tied snugly around her thick waist. Her eyes were a pretty blue, and she always hummed a tune.

Finn Lufton was one large man. It wasn’t just his stature; it was how he carried himself: quiet but commanding. When he came through a doorway, it was if the frame would expand to make room for him. A man of few words, he always had a warm smile for the girls at Miss Webster’s, making him seem less intimidating.

The first few months were grueling. It seemed as if Rachel’s fold was always in trouble. Gayle’s hair continuously slipped out of its place and would creep down onto the collar of her uniform—a definite infraction of school rules. Jillian’s affinity for chewing gum had the girls doing kitchen duty more times than not. Maddy just couldn’t keep her mouth shut. She questioned and argued just a little too much for Ms. Webster’s taste. The group had missed a few activities as a penalty. Poor Regan, who was used to adapting to almost anything, had to pay for the group’s shortcomings. She bore the whole ordeal with no emotion. How would they make it?

Each Saturday, a group of the girls did community work at the local hospital. Rachel’s fold was assigned the last Saturday of the month. Ms. Webster wasn’t sure the hospital was ready for this group of unruly young women. She felt they had a thread of selfishness the other groups did not, as evident in how many times they were awarded extra duties because of bad behavior.

Repeated offenses only showed a disregard for their other fold mates. Poor Miss Reece was penalized for doing nothing wrong. Ms. Webster hated this, but it was the rules. She must teach them a sense of community.

Ms. Webster left them with the head nurse after giving a strong ultimatum not to misbehave. It wasn’t that the girls were bad. They didn’t intend to misstep. Maddy supposed it was the fact that none of them wanted to be there.

Nurse Vincent smiled as Ms. Webster gave her leave to take them into her charge. Shall we get started? Nurse Vincent turned and headed to a small room. You can put your belongings in here. There are cover aprons to put over your dresses. The aprons identify you as volunteers. When you are dressed, meet me at the end of the hall.

The four stowed away their belongings and emerged with the proper attire. Nurse Vincent was nowhere around.

Hello, Ms. Young, isn’t it? A tall, rather handsome man stood in front of the women.

Yes. Maddy wasn’t sure who the man was.

You don’t remember me. I met you on the steps of Miss Webster’s. I believe you had just arrived.

How could you forget something like that? Jillian mumbled under her breath, nudging Regan’s arm.

I am sorry, yes, I remember you now. Luke, isn’t it?

Yes, that’s right, Luke Gately. He smiled and turned his eyes to the others.

These are my friends Gayle Landry, Regan Reece, and Jillian Grant.

Ladies, it is a pleasure to meet you.

Do you work here? Gayle asked.

I am a resident on staff. I hope to finish within the year.

Dr. Gately, don’t you have someplace to be? Nurse Vincent had returned.

I do, he said but didn’t move.

Instead, Nurse Vincent turned. Follow me, ladies.

It was a pleasure meeting you again, Ms. Young, and your friends. He waited, and just as Jillian passed, he leaned over. It’s good to know when we meet again, I won’t be forgotten.

She didn’t respond. She had five brothers. She had learned that the best way to combat any teasing was to ignore it.

Sue Vincent had been a nurse for a very long time. She took pride in her ability to read a young woman’s character, enabling her to put the right girl in the right job. She enjoyed helping Agnes Webster in molding the young ladies. It only took a brief interview to know Gayle was best placed as a nurse assistant in the postsurgical ward. Regan was best suited for the children’s ward. Maddy was a floater, going where needed and adapting quickly. Jillian was a problem. The girl was smart, very smart, which meant she would get bored quickly.

Nurse Vincent also thought the girl might be a little on the rebellious side, considering her hairstyle. She would have to think about this one, so in the meantime, she placed her in the surgical-instrument cleaning and storage area.

Their first Saturday of community service at the hospital was over. After supper, the girls gathered on Regan’s bed to discuss what all they had done. Jillian was a little less impressed than the others with the day. She felt trapped in the little sterile room where she counted instruments all day.

She felt Nurse Vincent might have been punishing her for the interchange she had with Luke Gately. His leaning over and lowering his voice probably cost her a plummy job at the hospital.

* * * * *

Saturday evening was mail time. Unless a post was marked urgent, the girls did not receive letters until the end of the week. If you had mail, it was placed on your pillow. This Saturday, only Gayle was the happy recipient. By the look on her face, the contents weren’t so happy.

Gayle, is everything all right? Maddy asked as Gayle dropped onto the bed.

You’re as pale as a ghost. What is it? Jillian went to sit beside her.

I… I can’t believe this. I… She handed the note from her uncle to Maddy. You read it.

Maddy took the letter and read the first few words to herself. Are you sure you want me to read this?

Yes, read it out loud so I can make sense of it all. I trust you all to keep it in confidence.

Maddy began:

My Dearest Abigayle,

How troubled I was to learn of your father’s choice to send you so far away. I knew he was a scoundrel from the first moment I met him. Sadly, my sister had already married him. I kept my mouth shut for your mother’s sake, but she found out soon enough what type of man she had married. That is all that needs to be said on the subject.

I do, however, wish to tell you something. I feel you are old enough to know now. I am certain my dear sister would have told you had she not passed away at such a young age. Marriage to your father was not my sister Charlotte’s first.

She married Nicoli Renaude at age seventeen. He was ten years her senior, and he loved her very much. Our parents were against the relationship from its infancy and forbade her to see him. They eloped and went into hiding. After a year, Nicoli passed away from tuberculosis, leaving my dear Charlotte with a broken heart and a wee little boy.

Uncertain of how she was going to care for baby Paul, she sought the counsel of Nicoli’s grieving parents. They convinced her the best possible solution was to seek restitution with her parents. Their idea of restitution was to ship Charlotte to our aunt in America, leaving the baby in the care of Nicoli’s older sister.

She regretted the decision the moment the boat set sail. She tried several times to get Paul, but it was if the whole Renaude family had vanished into thin air. Please do not think ill of your mother. She did what she thought was best and was highly manipulated by everyone involved. Think about what you would do, Gayle, if you were in the same situation.

All my love,

Uncle Gerald

Tears streamed down Gayle’s ashen face as she collapsed on her bed.

I am so sorry, Gayle. I know this is such a shock. Maddy went to sit beside her.

How awful for your mother. The decision must have killed her soul. Regan knelt in front of her. Please don’t think ill of your mother. It is very hard to manage a baby with no help.

The right amount of pressure from your family at such a time can cloud your judgment. The poor girl, Jillian added.

I know. Gayle gulped. I am not upset with my mother. To tell the truth, I am relieved.

Puzzlement appeared on her roommates’ faces. Gayle rose and headed to her dresser. She pulled out a stack of letters tied with a delicate pink ribbon. She dropped them on the bed.

The day after we buried my mother, my father asked me to clean her room out. I found these beautiful love letters from Nic. There were no dates on the letters. I thought my mother was having an affair. Tears began to flow anew. I am so glad I was wrong. My mom taught me to be a godly woman. I couldn’t imagine that she was living a lie, that she would fall into that kind of life, no matter how bad her marriage was to my father.

The girls were stunned.

Read some of these, she said as she scooted them toward her friends. Every woman should be loved like that.

They did read them, every last one of them, staying up later then curfew: infraction number one. They then lay whispering back and forth about the romance into the wee hours of the night. They missed breakfast and church: that was the death penalty.

Ms. Webster was so irate the red patch permanently on her cheeks expanded their border to engulf her face. It was a difficult task not to speculate if the woman’s head was going to explode. It did.

All chores are yours for the next two weeks. Hospital community service will be entirely yours for the next eight Saturdays. I have a good mind to split you up, but I wouldn’t want to do that to the others. Do you understand the ramifications of your behavior?

Four heads went up and down, almost in unison.

I really don’t mind the extra work at the hospital. It is the most fulfilling thing I have ever done, Gayle commented when the girls returned to the room.

That’s because you are not quarantined in a room soaking instruments. Jillian frowned.

After every meal, Rachel’s fold was responsible for kitchen duty. Studies had to be made up of an evening on their own time. It was during this two-week period the girls got to know the Luftons quite well.

So you have garden duty again, Ms. Young? Finn Lufton greeted the girl with a friendly smile. He handed her a hoe.

Yes, sir, I don’t mind. It reminds me of home.

Yes, I know what you mean. It reminds me of home as well. He had a far-off look.

Where is home, if you don’t mind me asking?

The man never stopped his work, but Maddy noticed his grip tighten on the shovel.

I am sorry, Mr. Lufton. It is none of my business. Please don’t tell Ms. Webster. I can’t afford any more trouble.

The man grinned. That is for sure. Why do you suppose you girls are always in trouble?

I don’t think Ms. Webster cares for us. Don’t get me wrong, we are guilty of our crimes, but some of her rules are over the top.

Ms. Webster cares for you young ladies very much. I hear her in the early morning hours praying for you. He saw the look on Maddy’s face. She was humiliated. He wanted to take pity on her but felt God had given him the opportunity to guide the impressionable young woman. Your actions have been selfish. You want to do your own thing, not stopping to comprehend how it affects others. Ms. Webster is trying to mold you into a better woman.

Tears filled Maddy’s eyes. Her head bent to hide her shame. Finn Lufton tilted her chin up. Maddy girl, you are a fine person, but you and the others need to think about what it means to be a woman. There comes a time when you must make the step. Agnes Webster is showing you the path. Now let’s start hoeing these potatoes.

They worked in silence. Maddy was contemplating the big man’s words.

Home is in Germany.

Maddy’s head lifted so swiftly she became dizzy.

Please, do not mention it to anyone.

You speak very good English. I knew your name was not a typical American name, but I had no idea it was German. She kept her voice low.

My Rosalie taught me. He smiled to himself. I was a quick learner with such a teacher.

How did you meet?

He kept hoeing. If I tell you, Maddy girl, will you be woman enough to keep this secret also? I am trusting you as one adult to another, one friend to another.

Yes, but if you don’t want to share it with me, you are not obligated. I understand.

That was a very grown-up answer, a proper and well-thought-out one. His compliment abated any disparagement of his former comments. I had been off the boat no more than three days when I found myself in a bit of scrape. I landed in the local jail, I did. Rosalie brought the meals over every evening. I knew just enough English to get by. I was dirty, angry, and a bit full of myself. Rosalie saw all of that was just masking hurt and fear. At my hearing, the judge sentenced me to some community work. Rosalie offered to let me work out my sentence at her boardinghouse, and I never left. She taught me English, and I taught her patience. His smile was infectious.

Will you teach me German?

I… I don’t think that would be a good idea, especially right now.

Just a little. We could do it while we worked. I won’t say a word. I have always been infatuated with the dialect. It sounds like everyone is giving each other what for.

Du bist ein lustiger.

Maddy attempted to repeat the phrase, but she didn’t have the sharp edge to the words that made it sound German. Finn couldn’t help but chuckle.

What does it mean? What did I just say?

You said you’re a funny one.

Oh, thank you.

No, vielen dank.

Du bist ein lustiger. Vielen dank.

Finn shook his head as Maddy quietly repeated the phrase as she hoed. He hoped he hadn’t made a mistake in sharing his story. He too wanted to help the girls mature into respectable women.

* * * * *

Rosalie Lufton was doing her best to instruct Gayle and Jillian in the art of bread making. It didn’t seem all that difficult to Jillian, but at the end of an hour, her bread had yet to rise. Gayle’s was practically over the pan.

I don’t understand. I followed your instructions to the letter. Look, just look at it lying there all pitiful, like our old hound dog at home that only got up for mealtime.

Rosalie hid a smile. Jillian did follow the recipe but she hurried everything.

Bread making takes patience, Jillian. You rushed the whole process. Your inability to wait is a constant issue with you. I don’t mean to be critical, but it is one of the reasons you are always in trouble. You think your way is the best, the quickest, and why doesn’t everyone see it your way, much like a child.

Jillian was stunned. Was she childish? If she was, did Mrs. Lufton have the right to say so?

Look at me, lovey. She cupped Jillian’s chin. I love thee with all my being. If I let you go on, not taking the blame for your own actions, would I be showing my love? You girls mean the world to us. We want to see you grow into beautiful, godly women. A little chastisement here and there is good for the soul. We all have to endure it. Think about your hurried nature before you proceed in life. It will serve you well.

Her words were hard but true. Jillian imposed her will on everyone and pouted when things didn’t go her way. How could she be angry when Mrs. Lufton had such an angelic look on her face?

* * * * *

Saturday morning, the girls could not get to the hospital fast enough. They enjoyed their time there emencely, no one more than Gayle. She thrived, or she would thrive, if the male employees would leave her alone. From the janitor to the doctors, they all wanted to get to know Gayle Landry. The others felt sorry for her, but not Nurse Vincent.

You enjoy all the attention, don’t you, Ms. Landry? Sue Vincent approached her young charge after a doctor had vacated the chair next to Gayle. Gayle’s face registered shock.

Don’t get me wrong, Ms. Landry. It is difficult not to enjoy being the center of attention. In its proper place, attention can be pleasant, but not here. You seem to take a secret pleasure of being perceived as a favorite. You are beautiful and graceful to be sure, but there is more to being a woman than compliments and praise. You are made of more than what is seen with the physical eye. Don’t underestimate what is inside. That is what should set you apart.

Gayle blinked back the tears. She didn’t know whether to be hurt or angry.

When you get over the shock of what I have said, I hope you will see the value in my words. You have great potential, Gayle.

Gayle looked across the nursing station at all the women fluttering around. She did enjoy the attention. She felt it made her a part of something. It did not. The others resented her, not because of the male attention but because of the way she acted, as if she deserved it. It was immature in a place where she wanted to be taken serious. No, Nurse Vincent hit the nail on the head.

* * * * *

Luke Gately passed Regan in the hallway and he stopped her. Ms. Reece, how are you enjoying working here?

I like it very much. Her head tilted downward, not looking him in the eye.

I hear wonderful things from the children. They certainly love you.

Yes, I have always been good with children. And animals. The head remained down, and eyes averted.

You know, I bet if you would lift your head and look me in the eye, you would see I am not going to bite you.

Regan slowly raised her head, a little confused as to why he would be talking to her in such away. The look did not go unnoticed by Luke.

You are a pleasant person from what the children tell me. I wouldn’t know because you carry yourself as if you are some type of second-class citizen. I don’t know why anyone with such charm would behave that way. Do you, Ms. Reece?

I… I… I know I am not a second-class citizen, Mr. Gately. She felt embarrassed.

Yes, but do you know you are somebody? He smiled and patted her shoulder. Good day, Ms. Reece.

Her mouth was open. Why did he feel the need to say that? She barely knew him. He obviously knew her. She was afraid of people in some way. She stayed with the children because they didn’t judge. In doing so, she put herself in a second-class state. Luke Gately, by pointing that out, lifted her up. She was somebody.

Chapter 2

Rachel’s fold emerged from their two-week work sentence on the precipice of change. Each had taken their admonishment to heart, attempting to better themselves. The work at the hospital gave them an avenue to grow—all of them, that is, except Jillian.

While the others went to work with anticipation, Jillian worked in a quagmire of boredom. Her work was good, but she had become careless. One of the surgeons found Nurse Vincent to complain rather loudly. Jillian had processed the instruments appropriately but stored them in the wrong place. It wasn’t a life-threatening mistake, but it did make the surgeon look bad. He opened the wrong instruments during a case observed by first-year students. He meant to make an example out of her, demanding to see Jillian that instant.

I heard about the mistake, Dr. Snider. Ms. Grant came to me herself. She is very sorry, and I have reassigned her duties. She won’t be packaging instruments.

I should hope not. That girl should be scouring bedpans. The surgeon’s stern demeanor could not be taken seriously while the tuft of hair atop his head swayed with the wagging of his finger. Dr. Gately was standing behind him and tried hard to keep from smiling. He was certain Nurse Vincent wanted to laugh as well, but she endured the man’s tirade.

Where is she? Luke asked after Dr. Snider retreated to his office.

I have her rolling bandages in an empty room. To tell you the truth, Dr. Gately, I don’t know what to do with her. She is unbelievably smart and curious. I can’t blame her for wanting to learn, but she is always in the wrong place at the wrong time. She just keeps getting into trouble.

I think I have an answer to your problem, but I need to speak with the chief of staff first. Keep Jillian rolling bandages. I will be right back. The man turned on his heels, his white lab coat trailing behind like a cape.

The hospital was intriguing to Jillian, but the random jobs they had her doing was not satisfying her quest for knowledge. She wanted more. The others had more. It was probably that Luke Gately’s fault.

Someone told me I might find you here. Luke entered to stand before her.

I wish they hadn’t. I don’t want to see you. I’m busy.

That is too bad because I may have a solution to your problem.

Who says I have a problem? She kept furiously rolling the bandages in front of her.

Everyone in this facility knows you have a problem. Except for you, it would seem.

A flush spread across her face. She tried hard not to show her emotion, but it wasn’t working. Mrs. Lufton’s words stopped her from speaking.

The way I see it, you have three choices. You can sit here and pout, or you can listen to what I have to say. He paused as if that was it.

You said I had three choices. What is the third?

You could find some poor man to marry you and get you out of this.

Her eyes flashed. I don’t intend ever to get married, so that option is null. She sat up straighter, putting on the air of confidence.

Which makes my solution the only option.

Let’s hope this final solution shows more common sense.

I have spoken with Nurse Vincent, as well as the chief of staff, and they have agreed to allow you to be my assistant. You would be assigned to me, go everywhere I go, be involved in whatever I am attending to. His smile was wide. The job would give Jillian a chance of a lifetime. It would get her out of the instrument room and keep her from bedpan duty.

So you have agreed to be my babysitter, keep me out of trouble. Thanks, but no thanks. She began to roll more bandages, steam escaping from both ears.

"Yes, I would say babysitting would be the accurate term."

Her face flushed again with anger.

Why don’t you take some time to think it over, discuss it with your friend Ms. Young. I don’t need to know until next Saturday.

If I were to give it thought, I wouldn’t need to discuss it with anyone. I am more than capable of making decisions for myself. Why did you single Maddy out anyway? Curiosity had gotten the best of her.

Because she is not sitting in an empty room rolling bandages.

You could tell by the way he said the comment, and the look on his face that he thought highly of Maddy. He was smiling almost an angelic smile, and his brown eyes twinkled. His dark blond hair was clipped short, as doctors should be. There was a charm about him she didn’t understand. Should she drop the fact that Maddy was practically engaged? She sincerely thought about it, but she decided to stay out of it for the moment, but he did need to know.

Maddy has a steady beau back home, she blurted. So much for staying out of it.

I am not surprised. She’s a lovely person. His smile widened just a bit. Jillian looked for a hint of sadness in those dreamy eyes. She didn’t find any.

They are practically engaged. She shouldn’t have said that. This is precisely what Mrs. Lufton had addressed with her.

Well, my father always said unless there was a ring on the girl’s finger, a fellow had a scrap of a chance. Do you know where Ms. Young is currently? I have something to discuss with her.

Jillian was perplexed. For all his polite ways, Luke Gately appeared to be rather bold in affairs of the heart.

I believe she is helping with inventory in the supply room.

You will think about what I said, won’t you?

I will think about it, Dr. Gately. Thank you. Now that should make Rosalie Lufton proud.

Luke indeed found Maddy in the supply room. It sure looks different in here. A frequently messy area had been strategically organized. Is this your doing?

Guilty. What do you think? Be honest.

I’m always honest, Mad—Ms. Young.

I know, I am sorry. I do want to know what you think.

Luke surveyed the room. I like it. It seems more functional, but I am not the one you have to please. It will be if Nurse Vincent approves.

She gave me the liberty to do it. I hope she approves. Can I help you find something?

No, I already found it. I was looking for you. He had a sneaky look on his face. For a moment, Maddy felt a little uncomfortable. They were all alone.

I have a couple of things I want to discuss with you. Luke took a step closer. She backed away. He hid a grin and leaned on the small counter. I was wondering if you would attend church with me tomorrow? The surprised look on her face caused him to laugh. You do attend church, don’t you?

Yes, of course. We all do.

I didn’t intend to leave the others out. They are invited too.

I…we can’t make this Sunday. I…we promised Mr. and Mrs. Lufton we would attend with them.

The Luftons, they are the couple that helps at the school. I believe I have met them. Perhaps next Sunday.

I…we would love to. What else did you wish to talk to me about?

Ah yes, an even bigger obstacle to tackle. Ms. Grant.

What about Jillian? Did she do something again, something that will get her in trouble?

It is more to the fact that if she doesn’t do something, she is going to get in trouble.

Maddy closed her eyes. I wish people understood how intelligent she is. She makes the rest of us look like grammar-school students. When she opened her eyes, Dr. Gately was standing directly in front of her and a little too close.

I know how smart she is and how smart she could be if she would take me up on my offer.

What do you mean? What offer?

I have gotten permission from the chief of staff and Nurse Vincent to have Jil—Ms. Grant be my assistant, my scribe. You know, follow me around, make rounds with me. It will be her last chance before she is booted out of here.

She said no? That doesn’t sound like Jillian.

She said she would think about it. I am hoping you will talk some sense into her. He clasped her hand. She needs this opportunity. There was a desperation in his eyes that seemed misplaced.

I will try to talk to her. She can be stubborn. When does she plan to give you an answer?

I told her I didn’t need to know until Saturday. I am hoping when I see you Thursday afternoon, you will know a little bit about what her decision might be.

Am I seeing you Thursday?

You most certainly are. He turned to leave. Maybe even sooner, he added with a chuckle.

Alone in the supply room, she tried to process the unspoken meaning of her conversation with Luke. Men were a mystery to her. She always felt they held some bit of knowledge about her she knew nothing about. She wasn’t sure what to make of his actions. Perhaps she would discuss them with Gayle later. She seemed to know about these things.

* * * * *

The church the Luftons attended was substantially smaller than the one Ms. Webster attended. The little white church was tucked away at the end of a side street. The stained glass windows were narrow and high-arching. It was a beautiful house of worship. The girls followed Rosalie up the steps with Finn trailing behind. A tall, robust man with a booming voice stood in the doorway.

Sister Rosalie, good to see you today. Who is this with you, students from Miss Webster’s? His large hand swallowed up Mrs. Lufton’s.

Yes. This is Ms. Grant, Ms. Landry, Ms. Reece, and Ms. Young. He shook the girls’ hand with surprising gentleness. We are so glad to have you today. Welcome. The girls thanked him and entered the foyer.

Once the girls were seated, it didn’t take long for Luke Gately to make his way over. He had been anticipating their arrival and the surprise of seeing him.

Ladies, it is a pleasure to see you. He stood in the pew in front of them. He leaned over to shake their hands.

So this is what he meant by seeing me before Thursday. But what about Thursday? Maddy was caught up in her thoughts. Gayle thought certain that Dr. Gately had been flirting with Maddy in the supply room. Maddy had relayed the interaction to her in hopes of making sense of it all.

Forgive me, Ms. Young, for keeping it a secret that I attended church with the Luftons. He kept his hand in hers until she looked at him.

You are forgiven. She smiled. Their hands remained clasped.

Don’t forget, you promised to come next Sunday as well.

She pulled her hand away, a little uncomfortable. I remember. Her hand rested on her lap.

Pastor Barnes was making his way to the pulpit. Luke turned to the Luftons. May I sit with you? he said in a whisper. Finn nodded. Luke sat at the end next to Regan.

The whole atmosphere was different than the church they regularly attended. There was no structured ceremony. People were able to stand and speak freely any praise they had. All the testimonies were encouraging. Pastor Barnes was an exceptional speaker. His words were driven right into the soul with a power Maddy had never felt. It was as if he was speaking directly to her.

At the back of the church, Pastor Barnes and his wife extended the invitation for the girls to come back.

Oh, they will be back. Luke approached, standing in between Maddy and Jillian. Ms. Young already promised to come and bring her friends. His head swiveled to face Jillian with a huge grin. Right, Ms. Young? he said, his eyes never leaving Jillian’s face.

Gayle watched the entire sequence. Luke was challenging to figure out. He seemed interested in Maddy yet chose to sit with Regan. He was smiling at Jillian like she was the only one in the crowd. He helped Gayle on with her shawl, resting his hand on her back as she exited the pew. Maybe it was purely his way. He was a gentle physician with an excellent bedside manner.

I will see you Thursday, she overheard him whisper to Maddy, just loud enough for the others to hear as he lit down the steps.

What did he mean he will see you Thursday? Jillian wanted to know.

I have no clue. He knows something I don’t, Maddy said with a little apprehension.

You don’t think he meant Friday instead? Ms. Webster is letting us go to the social the Daughters of the American Revolution is holding.

I forgot about that. You may be right, but he has been so insistent it’s Thursday.

I guess we will find out Thursday. And how could you forget about the social? It is the first time the four of us have been allowed to go out. Gayle linked her arm with Maddy’s as they strolled home.

* * * * *

Thursday afternoon, the interested young ladies could attend a lecture in the receiving hall. Today the talk was on the brain. When Rachel’s fold made their way in, they were surprised to see Luke Gately at the podium. So this was what he meant. He was the guest speaker for this week’s medical seminar.

He was a superb speaker. He was witty and engaging. He taught in such a way that caused disappointment when the lecture ended. Usually, your brain hurt after these lectures. Today was not the case.

He is outstanding, Jillian. I doubt you would be bored if you were his assistant. I would do it in a heartbeat. Maddy leaned in to whisper in her ear.

I bet you would, Jillian’s mind mused, as well everyone else in the room.

You are sneaky, Maddy said as she made her way through the line of girls to extend her thanks for Dr. Gately’s presentation. His smile was wide and genuine.

I didn’t want Jillian to find out. She probably wouldn’t have come had she known. His eyes were turned toward the brunette. Have you been able to speak with her about the job offer?

I tried. She didn’t want to discuss it much but said she would give it thought. After your lecture today, she would be crazy not to accept your kind offer. You have a unique way of explaining how things work. You seem particularly interested in wanting to help her learn.

I am interested in all of you learning, but her position at the hospital isn’t as secure as the rest. You, on the other hand, have picked up many worthwhile skills. Nurse Vincent may not say it to your face, but she raves about how industrious you are. It was kind of him to relay the information. There were times she wondered if Sue Vincent cared for her at all.

Will you be going to the Daughters of the American Revolution social tomorrow night, Dr. Gately? Regan had joined them.

No, I believe the social is for those between the ages of eighteen and twenty. I am a little older.

Regan had his full attention.

I have been in the past. They are usually very well attended and quite fun. I assume you four are going.

Gayle and Jillian now joined the group.

Yes, it will be our debut if we don’t break a rule before tomorrow evening, Jillian said.

So the hospital isn’t the only place you find yourself in trouble, Ms. Grant.

She frowned, more at herself than him. She did seem to be in trouble a lot. She ignored his comment.

How will you spend your Friday evening? Gayle asked.

I have a date.

You could hear the sound of hearts breaking all over the room.

* * * * *

Miss Webster’s School for Young Women was a buzz. The ladies could hardly keep their minds on their studies. The social was the highlight of the season. Every young man from the community would be in attendance. It was a great opportunity to mingle or get reacquainted with a young man from a previous outing.

If you were savvy, perhaps you could secure a steady beau. At least that is what the girls from the other folds were anticipating. A beau was not Maddy’s motive for going. She only wished for a little relaxation and fun.

"I’ve decided to dismiss you early to prepare for