He rubbed his chin and nodded. “Then I would say that is our answer. You presumed because you were a new bride that you were with child.”
A look of relief crossed Caroline’s face. “But I’m not. You’re certain?”
“Quite certain. I’m sorry.”
“You don’t understand. I did not wish to be.” She smiled at Elise. “One day I will desire children, but I am most happy not to be expecting a baby at this time.”
The doctor shook his head. It was clear he hadn’t expected this. “I need to stitch your head. Perhaps your sister could let everyone know that you’re all right. You have a concussion and will no doubt be sore from the fall, but otherwise you are fine.”
Elise felt as if a weight had been lifted from their shoulders. “I’ll let them know.”
She walked to the door and paused to look back at Caroline. There were tears in her sister’s eyes.
“I’m sorry, Mr. Duran, but I have no choice but to dismiss you from this ship,” Captain Wright declared. “After speaking to the first mate and Tom, it is clear you threatened the life of one of my crew. That, I will not tolerate.”
Duran wished he could kill both the captain and his first mate. Then he’d go take care of that troublemaking boy once and for all.
The captain shook his head as if dealing with a child. “Go get your things, and I’ll have your final wages ready and waiting.”
Duran looked at Nick and then the captain. “You’ll regret this. I don’t let anyone push me around.”
“I already regret ever hiring you on,” Captain Wright said. “I believe in giving all men a chance, however. One day, I hope you’ll decide to change for the better, Duran.”
“There’s no need for change. My way suits me just fine.”
Duran left the captain and Nick and went to the forecastle to get his things. The most troubling thing about all this was the location. Had this happened in Duluth or even Toronto, he would have felt better about being stranded. Now he wasn’t even sure he had enough money for a train ticket.
The Wrights had caused him no end of trouble, but he still had the knowledge that Elise’s sister was pregnant. He’d find Nelson Worthington again and tell him that he had something more important to tell him regarding his wife ... but it would cost him.
Chapter 23
“I’m glad Louis was able to change the train ticket for later this week. I think, given what’s happened, Nelson will surely stay away for fear of someone filing charges against him.” Elise leaned over and kissed her sister’s head.
“I hope he does. Uncle James said he plans to threaten him with it if he refuses to sign the annulment papers.” Caroline smiled. “You know, I think this is the first time I’ve been happy in months.”
“Even though you’re moving to Duluth?” Elise smiled. “It really has become quite a nice town. I think this winter will be a good time for both of us to explore.”
“Are you going to marry Nick?” her sister asked out of the blue.
Elise shrugged. “I want to, but I believe it’s important for Nick to get back to captaining his own ship. I can’t leave Papa and theMary Elise, so I’m not sure what to do.”
Caroline frowned. “You can’t give up your life for our father. He’s a good man, and he’s strong and capable. He wouldn’t want that for you.”
“Yes, but I promised our mother.” Elise went to the window and looked out. The skies were growing dark, and soon she’d need to be on theMary Elise. Papa had decided it would be better to sleep on board since they were leaving early in the morning.
“Did Mama ask for that promise, Elise? I doubt she did, because she was never that selfish. You know that very well. She wouldn’t want you to forsake true love.”
“I know she would want me to find happiness, Caroline. However, I know she would also like to know that Papa is happy. We shall have to pray on it, for God has all the answers.”
“I’ve thought about that ever since talking to Nick. I’ve been praying more and reading the Bible. I see how He answered my prayers, and I know I must put aside my selfish ways. I don’t know what God has planned for me, but I want to change.”
“You already have,” Elise replied. She stepped back from the window. “I’d better go bid everyone good-bye. I’ll see you in a couple of weeks.” She went to Caroline and kissed her again.
“Don’t tell him no,” Caroline whispered against her ear.
“What?” Elise straightened.
“Nick. When he proposes, don’t tell him no.”
