Judith had feared this might be his approach. “I’m sorry, but no. I cannot leave my grandfather for an evening of pleasure. He has just suffered a serious attack, and his condition warrants his remaining in bed. I will be here at his side until I feel it’s acceptable to leave. Church will most likely be the only outing I allow myself.”
Bert frowned. “I am sorry that he is growing worse. Ofcourse, the doctor did make it clear that he only has a few weeks, perhaps months.”
“Yes, and that makes it even more important that I stay close. Besides, and I want to be perfectly honest with you because you deserve that much...” Judith tried to soften her tone. “I have no interest in courtship at this time. I’ve acquired new responsibilities, as you know, and feel I must devote myself to them, as well as my grandfather.”
“I certainly cannot fault you for your kindness, especially given you hardly know the man and he wasn’t exactly generous to your family.”
“No, but perhaps in dying he will come to see his need for the Lord and repent of his ways.” Judith picked up her lemonade again and sipped it slowly. She hoped Bert would tire of asking for her company.
“You know, I can tell you quite a bit about your grandfather. I’ve shared a great deal of time with him and learned a lot under his tutelage.”
Judith uncovered her lunch and found salmon mousse atop slices of cucumber and tiny dill and chicken sandwiches. There was also a plate with cheese and strawberries. “Are you sure you’ve had enough lunch? I could have another tray brought.”
Bert held out his hands. “No, I’m just fine. But please consider my offer of help. There’s a lot you don’t know.”
Judith arranged a couple of sandwiches onto the plate with the salmon. “I’m sure that is true. It would seem I learn things every day. If I have need of your assistance, I will call upon you. For now, however, I want to allow my grandfather the time he desires. It is his hope to teach me the things he wants me to know, and I am eager to give him that opportunity. There is much we can accomplish together.”
She saw a shadow of displeasure in Bert’s expression but said nothing. She knew he was doing everything in his powerto get her to spend time with him. He was just unwilling to be refused.
Taking up her plate and adding a few strawberries, Judith found herself wishing she’d not allowed Mary to slip away. She would have much preferred asking Bert to leave them to their discussion rather than to continue with his.
“I’m sure you’re probably curious about life here in Minneapolis. You might even wonder why I chose to live here when I hail from Boston.”
Judith eased back against the cushions. “I remember you saying on the train that when my grandfather came west because of business opportunities, your father sent you along to serve the legal firm as my grandfather’s personal attorney.”
“You have a good memory.”
Judith smiled. “Yes, I do. It’s something I’ve always been known for. Just as you are known for your quick understanding of legal matters. It was one of the reasons you graduated at the top of your class.”
He chuckled. “Well, it’s affirming to know you listened so closely to the things I shared. That shows a degree of caring that most people lack.”
Judith had been trapped with him for hours on end while traveling west, and the man had talked of nothing but himself for most of the trip. It had nothing to do with caring.
The food was especially refreshing, and Judith found herself hungrier than she’d thought. She continued eating as a light breeze rustled through the trees. It would have all been quite pleasant if not for Bert.
“What do you think of Minneapolis?”
Shifting her weight a bit, Judith glanced around. “I’ve mostly seen St. Anthony, but grandfather did drive me around a bit on the other side of the river. I believe in a few years there will most likely be a vast expansion of the city and its people.”
“You are correct in thinking that. I’ve seen it start up fromnext to nothing and now this. There are plans for additional bridges across the river, expansion of the railroad, and, of course, incorporating St. Anthony into Minneapolis. That will happen in the next few years if the powers that be have anything to say about it. Oh, that reminds me, have you had an opportunity to see the falls?”
“Not well. I have caught glimpses.”
“I would love to show them to you. More industry is being built along the riverbanks, which makes it difficult to see them as well as you once could, but there are still a couple of lovely places from which you may observe them. We could go there most any time.”
“You forget, I am focusing on my grandfather for the time. The falls will still be there when he is gone.”
“Do you know the falls have been altered greatly over the years? The water is wearing down the rock.”
“As water will do,” Judith offered as she continued to enjoy her lunch.
“Mr. Black, Mr. Ashton is asking for you,” Mrs. Deeters announced. She had slipped into their company so quietly that Judith almost did a double take to reassure herself that the woman was really there.
“Thank you, Mrs. Deeters. You may also take the tray.” Judith got to her feet. “It was quite an enjoyable meal. Please thank Mrs. Markle. It was light and perfect for a day like today.”
Bert stood and offered Judith his arm. “Might I escort you to the house?”
“Thank you, no. I have some things to discuss with Mrs. Deeters before I return.” She fixed him with a dismissive look and waited for him to leave. After several painfully long moments, he realized the situation and gave a nod.
