Ruth’s heart pounded as Alistair stood close to her—too close for her liking. She knew she was doing the right thing, but it was scary nonetheless. Daniel’s support had given her a sense of comfort. She knew the Lord would guide her in a way to help her find answers without arousing suspicions in Alistair that might lead to danger.
The dress he bought was absolutely dreadful and not her taste at all. She would typically politely inform the benefactor that her taste was of a simpler style and offer it to someone else who would better appreciate it.
Alistair decided to leave early and return later with his carriage. The thought of being close to him made her shudder, but she needed to be brave and thought of Esther, who, at the risk of losing her life, was able to convince King Xerxes to save the nation of Israel, her people, from the evil men who wanted to destroy it.
Rose helped Ruth get dressed in the awful clothing, which she seemed to like.
“You are so fortunate,” Rose said in admiration, “that Dr. Nagle should purchase such a lovely garment for you.”
“Do you think so?” Ruth said with a small frown as her nose crinkled. “If you like it, I will give it to you.”
“Oh, I could not take it!” Rose exclaimed, tilting her head and blushing.
“Of course you could,” Ruth smiled boldly. “Just between you and me, I prefer a simpler taste.”
“Would Dr. Nagle not become angry?” Rose froze and her eyes pulled back in fear.
“No, not at all,” Ruth assured her. “I’ll just tell him that the dress will soon be out of fashion.”
Rose beamed as she giggled. “You’re too kind Ruth. My niece will soon be eighteen—she’ll adore it. I’ll style your hair for you. Dr. Nagle won’t be able to keep his eyes off you.”
Rose’s last words made Ruth cringe. She wondered if Rose or her niece had ever owned a dress such as this. If anything, it seemed more suitable for a costume ball.
Alistair arrived too soon, and Ruth felt tense and uncomfortable. Once again, she heard his heavy footsteps. He was headed toward the laboratory and then upstairs.
“Relax, Ruth,” Rose said gently as she combed out her hair. “I’m certain dinner will go well and although Dr. Nagle has a peculiar nature, he would make an excellent match.”
Ruth remained silent and wished Rose would stop speaking about the dinner. She supposed Rose was just excited about the new dress.
Daniel came downstairs with Alistair and Ruth breathed a sigh of relief. She felt her heart race at the sight of him. She saw his mouth tip to one side and noticed his approval, feeling her cheeks grow hot.
Alistair had not seemed to notice, fortunately.
“You look ravishing, my dear.” Alistair rolled hisras he spoke and observed every part of the dress from head to toe, which caused irritation to flash across Daniel’s face.
“Shall we go?” Alistair held out his arm gallantly and gave a small nod. Ruth reached for his arm, shooting a quick glance at Daniel, whose face was predictably sour.
***
Seated in the carriage, Ruth found the dress to be most uncomfortable and had to sit ridiculously upright to avoid having the bodice pinch her back. She knew that by the end of the night she would be miserably stiff.
Daniel had explained Alistair’s game plan accurately, except the latter drove the carriage around the park and was quite happy to talk about himself and boast about the splendid view he had of the park.
“I should like to take you for a walk inside the park sometime,” Alistair suggested and gave her a sidelong glance, “We would appear quite dashing to onlookers.”
Ruth smiled and noted his keen excitement. “Indeed, that sounds most enjoyable.”
She wondered about Daniel and his plan to wait in the shadows of the trees; she hoped he was right. The thought of him being there was reassuring.
Alistair leaned toward her, “Do not be nervous, my dear,” his laugh was deep and jovial. “You will find my company pleasurable, and the meal will be the finest you’ll ever savor.”
Ruth was relieved when they arrived at Alistair’s house. The dress gave her back great discomfort. He leapt from the buggy and took her hand to help her down from the carriage.
Ruth gasped at Alistair’s enormous Victorian style house. The tall mansard roof had four symmetrical chimney stacks jutting from it, and every double-hung windows had shutters. She had never seen a house so big. The house had three levels, each with its own porch, except that the ground level had a wraparound porch with intricate poles painted white. The trees and the garden were beautiful and neatly trimmed bushes bordered the perimeter of his property.
Ruth walked up the wide stairs to the porch, also painted white. It was well-swept, and she wondered why there was no furniture on it. It looked sadly unused and would be an ideal area to sit and entertain guests while viewing the park. The double entrance door was solid walnut framed with white brick. There were two attractive gaslights on either side.
“Marvelous, is it not?” Alistair grinned proudly, showing even teeth. He opened the door and beckoned her inside. Ruth wondered how one man could live alone in such a large house.
