“I worried about you overheating. I couldn’t bring myself to attend the fundraiser with that on my mind,” Roman replied. Judith reclaimed her place on the settee, and he came to sit just opposite her. “I hope you’re feeling well.”
“I am. I have been considering how to get started on my very important duties.”
“And what duties are those?”
“My grandfather was quite concerned about leaving a legacy. He wanted to build a marble block memorial downtown, but I have something else in mind.”
Roman frowned. “That man’s legacy is already set in stone.”
“I know. Sadly, there are those who will never think of him without bitterness. I pray you won’t be one of them, but I surely understand if you are. Still, it is my desire to see to a new legacy. That memorial block he wants me to build will be assembled, but not out of marble and not for the benefit of financial institutions. I believe it would be far more beneficial to create hospitals, orphanages, and other more helpful organizations.”
“That would be amazing.” Roman could see the pleasure such thoughts brought to Judith.
“Not only that, Roman, but I’ve been long at work going through my grandfather’s records since his arrival in Minneapolis. There are a great many people he took advantage of or outright cheated. I intend to see them properly reimbursed.”
“That won’t be easy.”
Judith smiled. “I know, and I’m perfectly fine with that. I will, however, need help. That is why I intend to start with your family. It’s my hope that eventually, you might be willing to assist me in seeing these wrongs righted.”
“How would I do that?”
“I’m not entirely sure, but you know most everyone in this area due to your duties. I know you can help me locate the people who were cheated. But first I must meet with the lawyers. I haven’t yet heard from them. Once I do, I will move ahead with my plans. I intend to return the land Grandfather stole from your father, for a start.”
“That property has been fully developed with high rents being reaped.”
“I know, and it will be returned to your mother. There will also be a cash settlement. We will discuss what you believe to be fair. Obviously, nothing can make up for the loss of your father’s life, but reinstating your financial position is the best I can do.”
Roman couldn’t help himself. He stood and went to her.Reaching out for her hands, he pulled her to her feet. “Judith, I don’t know what to say. I already came with overwhelming thoughts and feelings for you, but this goes beyond anything I imagined. Kindness and mercy from an Ashton was something I never thought possible. Since I first met you back in Philadelphia, I’ve known you were to have a special place in my life.”
Without thinking, he pulled her close to him and lifted her chin. “I never thought love was possible for me. I presumed God had called me to a life of being single. I thought my purpose was to offer my services and help better the lives of others.”
“I thought God had called me to the same,” she said, her voice soft and low. “Perhaps, we can answer that call together? Perhaps God no longer wants us to face these duties alone.”
Roman nodded and lowered his lips to hers. For the first time in his life, Roman felt as if the chains of the past had truly fallen away. He could forgive James Ashton Sr. He could let go of his anger and hate and replace it with love.
19
After that first kiss, Judith was certain of being in love. Weeks later, as she sat going over her list of things to do, she couldn’t help but think of Roman and the passion he had stirred to life in her. She had thought after Alden died that she could never love again. Then she met Roman in Philadelphia, and their encounter had caused her to reconsider. Now, with all that had happened, she could no longer deny her feelings. How happy she was to be wrong. She could love again.
Since the funeral, Roman had stopped by each evening to spend time with her, and it felt as if they’d known each other all their lives. They talked about the things they loved and hated. Both were troubled by the seeming lack of concern society had for those who were destitute. Both longed to find ways to better the lives of the poor, not just by handing them charity but by ensuring educations and proper training for good jobs. They also wanted to see better housing to lower the risk of poverty-related diseases.
There were also other little things that they both shared. Judith talked of her love for the river and steamboat travel.Roman had suggested she expand her Philadelphia company to include travel on the Mississippi. Judith had to admit that sounded quite promising. Not only for business but for pleasure. The idea of taking a nice long trip on the river with Roman at her side was most appealing.
“Hard at work, I see,” Roman announced from the doorway. Mary stood at his side.
“How wonderful to see you.” Judith got up and came around the desk. “What brings you here this morning?”
“Aunt Mary, actually. I needed to speak with her, and Mother also sent me to give her a recipe she asked for. I thought it the perfect excuse to see you.”
“You know you don’t need any excuses.” She glanced at Mary and nodded at the paper in her hand. “Is that the recipe we talked about?”
“Yes,” Mary replied holding it up. “The best crab cakes in the world. They’re Roman’s favorites, and Mrs. Markle said she’d prepare them for the evening meal.”
“I suppose that means Roman should return this evening for supper. I would hate for you to miss out on your favorite meal.”
He smiled and bent to kiss her forehead. “Any meal with you is bound to be my favorite.”
“Can you both sit for a moment? I’ve been going over some of the details of things I want to accomplish. I’ve spoken to Reverend Knickerbacker and pledged the remaining support he needs for the hospital, but I want to get matters resolved with your family as soon as possible.
