She squeezed his hand, grateful for his understanding. “Just a few more days. Once these dresses are delivered, things will get back to normal.”
“Take the time you need, Cassie. Your work’s as important as anything I might have to do,” Andy reassured her, his dark eyes earnest.
“Thanks,” she smiled, the weight in her chest lifting a little. “But I’m making you a feast to make up for it. As soon as these stitches are set and the last hem is sewn.”
“Looking forward to it,” he winked.
As they finished their meal, talking about everything and nothing, Cassie felt the love and companionship that made every hardship worthwhile.
She reached out and took his hand. “Most men wouldn’t put up with the hours I’m working, and I appreciate that you think my dream is as important as yours.”
He brought her fingers to his lips. “I never could understand why a man would think what he did was more important than what his wife did.” He shook his head. “I’m just thankful for the extra income that’s making my life easier.”
CASSIE HOISTED THEsatchel containing her meticulously crafted dresses onto the carriage seat, the leather creaking under the weight. Deborah climbed up beside her, tucking a stray wisp of hair behind her ear, her gaze lingering on the parcel with quiet admiration.
“Can’t believe you’re pulling all this off, Cassie,” Deborah murmured, as the horses began their steady trot toward the train station in Fort Worth.
Cassie’s hands rested on the reins, her knuckles white against the worn leather. “Truth be told, it’s been a bit harder than I thought it would be,” she confessed, her eyes fixed on the road ahead. “Between the sewing and keeping house, I’m stretched thinner than morning mist.”
Deborah glanced at her sister, noting the faint shadows beneath Cassie’s blue eyes. “You know, Jane’s got a knack for cooking and wouldn’t mind some extra money. Maybe she could help with the evening meals and tidying up?”
Cassie’s brow furrowed at the thought, the idea swirling like a new pattern in her mind. “Hire Jane?” she echoed, pondering. “Wouldn’t be too proud to admit I need the help, but...”
“Sometimes, pride’s has to take a back seat to practicality,” Deborah cut in softly. “She’d be glad for the work, and you’d have more time for your dressmaking.”
A smile tugged at the corner of Cassie’s lips. “Might just take you up on that suggestion, Deb,” she said, a newfound lightness to her voice as they continued down the dusty road toward opportunity.
CASSIE AND DEBORAHstepped out of the train, their arms laden with carefully wrapped packages. Cassie’s heart fluttered like the hem of a petticoat caught in a breeze—today was the day her creations would face judgment.
“Here we are,” Cassie said, squaring her shoulders as they approached the grand house that had placed the order.
“Your dressmaking’s about to be the talk of the town,” Deborah added with an encouraging smile.
Cassie hoped so. With each knock on the polished oak door, her confidence stitched itself firmer. The door swung open, revealing the eager faces of the Dallas elite gathered inside. Compliments flowed freely as Cassie unveiled the dresses. Relief softened her posture. They were smitten.
“Could you combine this lace with that bodice for my niece’s birthday party?” one lady asked, pointing to two different gowns.
“Absolutely,” Cassie replied, her head buzzing with new designs.
Cassie was glad she’d thought to bring her sketchbook. She watched as two women pored over the pages.
By the time they left, orders were penciled into Cassie’s book, each one a promise of growth for her business. Yet, as they were on the train to return to Fort Worth, a knot of worry formed in her gut. Hiring Jane meant discussing money with Andy—an undertaking more daunting than any dress she’d fashioned.
That night, after a supper of stewed chicken and fresh biscuits, Cassie lingered at the table, sipping her tea as Andy cleaned the plates. She watched his back, the way his muscles moved beneath his shirt—a dance of strength and purpose.
“Deborah had an idea today,” Cassie began, her voice trailing like a leaf on a stream.
Andy turned, wiping his hands on a cloth. “Oh? What might that be?”
“About hiring Jane to help around here. With the cooking and cleaning, just for a couple hours each day.” Cassie folded her hands in her lap, awaiting his response.
Andy leaned against the counter, considering. “Makes sense to me,” he said after a pause. “You’ve got your hands full with those dresses.”
“Really?” Cassie blinked, surprised by his easy agreement.
“Sure,” Andy chuckled. “I think I’d like to taste something other than my own cooking for a change.”
Relief washed over Cassie like a gentle rain. She smiled, warmth spreading through her chest. “Thank you, Andy. It means the world.”
“Anything for you, Cassie.” His eyes met hers, steady and sincere. “We’re in this together.”
Cassie was thrilled. She hadn’t talked to Jane yet, but she was certain her sister would agree. It would be so much better than trying to do it all herself.
