An Unexpected Mother (The Colorado Brides Series Book 4) by Carré White Page A

Connor.”
    He couldn’t have been older than five or six. “Hello, Connor.”
    “I’m Peter.”
    I shook his hand. “Hello, Peter.”
    “I don’t like broccoli. You won’t make me eat it, will you?”
    That was a surprise. “I…suppose not. We don’t have it often. We’re more likely to eat beans and carrots. Do you like beans and carrots?”
    “Yes, ma’am.”
    “I’m Fanny.” I shook one of the girl’s hands.
    “Susanna.”
    “That’s a pretty name.”
    “Thank you.”
    “What foods do you object to?”
    “I…don’t like liver.”
    I made a face. “Nor do I. It’s revolting.” A hint of a smile appeared around her mouth. I glanced at the girl next to her. “And you are?”
    “Mary.”
    “Hello, Mary. What won’t you eat?”
    “I like all food. I’m quite hungry at the moment, Fanny…um…Mrs. Hatch.”
    “You may call me Fanny.” I glanced at the oldest.
    “Jane,” she murmured, before I could say anything.
    I shook her hand. “You’ve been minding your brothers and sisters all by yourself?”
    “Mostly.”
    “They are very well-behaved. You’ve done an excellent job.” She blinked, clearly not expecting such praise.
    “Th-thank you.”
    Having initiated the introductions, I felt a semblance of control over the situation and my emotions. I’d surprised my family, as father gaped at me with his lips slightly parted. Mother seemed gobsmacked, while Hannah grinned. I turned to face Pastor Bailey, exuding the coldest stare I could muster.
    “We need to get their things. Would you be so kind to show us where you live, sir?”
    His look was nearly as frigid as my own. “I’d be pleased to.”
    “Thank you.”
    The children would be with me until midweek; therefore, they needed several days’ worth of clothing. Pastor Bailey lived in a two-room flat above the bakery. We crowded into the parlor, while the Hatch children gathered their things. The room was bordered by bookcases, which were filled with volumes. Two wooden chairs flanked a brown velvet sofa. Pastor Bailey helped carry the things down, as did father, and, once we were all settled within the wagon, we began the trek to Paulina’s house. She had already gone ahead to prepare for our arrival.
    Paulina had arranged a buffet of green beans, fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and an assortment of desserts. We sat at the table, although extra chairs had been added to accommodate everyone. When the meal had ended, the Hatch brood joined Louisa’s children outside, laughing and playing, while Jane was with us. Her expression remained schooled, and her manners were impeccable. I sensed that she did not care for me. I needed her on my side as an ally, but winning her over might be a challenge.
    I managed to catch her alone a while later. “Jane, might I have a word?”
    “Yes, Mrs. Hatch.”
    “It’s just Fanny. I was hardly married to Jason.”
    “But you did marry him.”
    “Well,” I sighed. “I suppose, I was married. Now I’m widowed.”
    She considered me carefully. “You’re not much older than I am.”
    “No, I’m not. I’m eighteen.”
    “I’m fifteen.” I detected a hint of disdain, but it was quickly masked.
    “You know your brothers and sisters better than anyone. Can I ask that we be friends, Jane? I’m going to need your help.”
    “You want me to watch over them.”
    “Well, partly, but there’ll be others in the house. It shouldn’t all be on you.”
    “Why not? You don’t want this responsibility.”
    “I…am shocked by it all. I didn’t know Jason had children. I only found out today. I’m still processing everything.”
    “I’m prepared to do whatever I must. If you’ll provide food and shelter, I can manage the rest. You needn’t put yourself out on our account.”
    “Well, this isn’t an orphanage, Jane. You’ll be treated like family. There will be chores and things and school, but I would hope you come to feel at ease amongst us. I’ll try my best to adjust to this