Natasha's Hope Read online

  “I don’t know the value of your trust fund, nor do I care to. That does not concern me. To this day, I question Natasha’s reasoning for the exorbitant amount she left me. In my youth, the money was appreciated, and of assistance, but in my heart, it was strictly a loan. It allowed me to live comfortably and to continue my education without being a financial burden to my parents. I’m pleased to say I repaid that money and the value has grown over the years. Now, given the recent events, I know I will not become a papa.”

  Hope’s gaze shifted to the floor. It wasn’t a topic she wished to think about. “Nay,” she admitted sadly.

  “Without the possibility of future heirs from Natasha’s blood, I have transferred the investment into a trust fund for the orphanage.”

  Hope struggled to comprehend the information. She glanced toward Izabella. Her friend’s eyes were wide as she stared at Poppa. Smiling, Izabella’s face glowed with pride. It was apparent this had not been discussed with her chum. Hope turned her attention toward her husband. Adam’s face appeared without expression.

  “I would like both you and Adam to accompany me to the bank. We will set up a payment schedule to transfer funds from the trust account to the business account. This business is no longer dependent on adoptions and donations, although I would not make that public knowledge.”

  So pleased, so full of emotion, Hope lacked the words. Her eyes filled with unshed tears of happiness. The children would be taken care of. She turned her attention back to Adam. Not as receptive to the idea, he began shaking his head.

  “I cannot allow that,” Adam protested. “I wasn’t comfortable using Hope’s trust fund. These funds were not intended for this building.”

  Hope reached out for her husband’s hand.

  “I didn’t argue when you offered to cover the cost of the manager,” Adam continued, justifying his reasoning, “but this orphanage is capable of running as a business.”

  “It is my hope it continues to do so. I’ve become a successful man through my business, Adam. I don’t require the money from the trust fund to live as I please. With only one heir, I enjoy seeing my daughter and her husband spend time together. I wish to spend more time with my family.”

  “Poppa. You have other family,” she reminded him.

  “Vicki and Greg are both paid well above standard. They should be financially secure. The funds I received will support a business that is near and dear to my heart. A building where your momma found contentment.”

  The tears broke free and rushed down Hope’s cheeks. She stood and embraced her father.

  * * *

  Stewart’s heart burst with pride, unable to recall being as happy in the recent past. Hope’s second miscarriage had put their lives into perspective. They almost lost her. Nothing was more important than family. His parents, Vicki, Greg, and their children, Hope and Adam and the young, innocent faces living under their roof. Too proud to accept money and retire, Greg was still young and capable of working to provide for his family.

  Although Greg wasn’t aware of the details, yet, his promotion to business partner came with a substantial raise and a share in the profits of the company. Without the financial concerns of the orphanage, Adam and Hope could spend more time together.

  “How will I ever thank you?” Adam sobbed.

  Stewart pulled back from the embrace with his daughter and looked into her eyes. She would be the pearl of his heart until the day he died. “You thank me daily as I look at Hope. Continue loving my daughter.”

  Stewart kissed Hope’s forehead, held out his hand for Izabella, and left Adam and Hope alone in the room.

  “I’m needing some fresh air,” Izabella informed him. She led him outside and toward the back of the building, away from the staff and children. “You never spoke of your intentions. Not of your plans for the money.”

  “I won’t be blessed with biological grandchildren, but God has placed me in a home full of beautiful young faces. Natasha suggested the trust fund in a dream.”

  “I love you, Stewart Donovan.”

  She reached up and brought her lips to his. It had been a wonderful day. Hope and Adam were happy. Not in the mood for company other than Izabella’s, he was in the mood for more than a kiss.

  “I don’t believe we will be seen using the private entrance,” he whispered.

  “Your eyes are sparkling. That wonderful Donovan twinkle. It would be a pleasure to follow you upstairs.”

  “Marry me.”

  “I would prefer to be led to our bed.”

  * * *

  Tom graciously accepted additional responsibility. Taking advantage, Adam, Hope, Stewart, and Izabella began escaping from the orphanage for day trips. Able to spend time with Vicki and her growing children, the families’ bond strengthened. Once a month, evenings were spent attending live theatre and concerts.

  A year had passed since her miscarriage. Hope found contentment spending time with her two young cousins and the orphanage children. She looked forward to visiting Marcus, his wife and two children. Nanny arrived weekly and dined with the family. Sunday, after attending church, Nana and Papa would return home, leaving the younger generations to socialize. The family would then gather at the Donovan homestead for the evening meal. The house filled with laughter.

  * * *

  Stepping out of the office, the aroma seeping from the orphanage kitchen turned Hope’s stomach. Do I have the stomach flu? I do not want a virus in this building. Perplexed by the nausea, she went back to the office.

  “I’m not feeling well,” she informed Tom. “Tell Adam or my father I’ve gone to my room.”

  Izabella brought a tray with her lunch. The scent had her reaching for the basin.

  “You poor dear. I’ll return with tea and crackers.”

  Adam walked into the room a short time later.

  “I’ve spoken the all the volunteers and children. You are the only one ill.” He put his wrist on her forehead. “You’re not fevered.”

  “No. It’s just my stomach. Perhaps you should sleep in the spare room. I fear I’ve contaminated this room.”

  “I’ll contact Doc.”

  “No. I’ll be fine in a day or two.”

  Four days later, Adam took her to see their family doctor. After the examination, Adam joined Hope in the room.

  “Hope is with-child.”

  The colour drained from Adam’s face. Filled with mixed emotions, Hope’s eyes filled with tears that spilled down her cheeks. Scared, this wasn’t planned, but she wanted a baby. She wanted to hold and love Adam’s baby. Is this a blessing or a curse?

  Sitting in the buggy, Hope heard Doc’s voice over and over in her head. She had two options. Neither were pleasing. Medical facilities in the city were capable of ending the pregnancy when it was suspected the mother’s life could be at risk. If she decided to carry this baby, Doc would insist upon strict bed rest the entire term. Seven months without the ability to walk around the yard. To garden or fuss with the flowers. Dreadful. Pondering the options, her mind wandered. Her own life had been in jeopardy during her last miscarriage, but in her heart, she felt this child was special. Never having experienced nausea with her first two pregnancies, she believed this child was another chance from God.

  She turned and looked at her husband. He glanced her way and turned his attention back to the road. He never uttered a sound. He didn’t have to. One word from her, and Adam would turn the horses around and return to the doctor’s office. Adam would hold her hand and support her while Doc to made the necessary arrangements.

  They had attempted to avoid conceiving, but obviously they weren’t successful. He turned the horses toward the orphanage driveway.

  “Doc wishes to hear from you within a couple of days with your decision,” he reminded her. “Until that time, you will spend your days resting with constant companionship. You will have assistance to get out of bed, regardless how trivial the request.”

  Hope turned her nose up. She cherished he
r solitude, but didn’t argue. Adam assisted her from the buggy and then scooped her into his arms.

  “This is not necessary,” she informed him. “I’m capable of walking.”

  “From this moment forward, your legs will not feel the weight of your body. It’s something to consider, Hope. I know you value your independence and you’re comfortable in your own company, but that will not occur for almost seven months.” Adam carried Hope through their private entrance, and up the stairs.

  * * *

  Walking from the orphanage nursery to their private quarters, Stewart and Izabella heard Adam’s voice. Seeing the open door, they glanced into the master bedroom. Hope was settled on their bed and Adam sat on the edge, adjusting pillows behind her back. Izabella, always perceptive, closed her eyes and shook her head.

  “No.” Izabella cringed.

  “Yes,” Hope admitted.

  “What?” Stewart questioned.

  Adam turned his head, avoiding eye contact with Stewart. His son-in-law remained silent.

  “Did Doc recommend bed rest?” Izabella asked.

  “He was forceful in his insistence,” Adam responded, keeping his focus glued to his wife. “Hope will not see a moment of privacy if she decides to carry this child.”

  Oh.

  “She has been given options,” Adam continued.

  Distressed, Stewart titled his head and stared at the ceiling. Hope wants a child, wants a family, but this decision could cost Hope her life. Unable to imagine a life without his daughter, he recalled the day they were informed Natasha was with child. Their lives changed forever, but he had no regrets. He loved the daughter they created. Natasha’s Hope. Needing time to think, Stewart turned and walked out of the room, down the main staircase, and out the door. He used the long walk and fresh air to clear his head.

  The timing of Natasha’s pregnancy wasn’t ideal, but she never considered terminating the pregnancy. Natasha would have had their child without him. He stayed with Natasha and married her. Together, they had support from Nanny and Natasha’s brothers. He would support his daughter and son-in-law, regardless of their decision. Think with your head, not your heart, Hope. Value your own life over a risky possibility. Stewart willed Hope to hear his thoughts.

  Returning an hour later, the office door was slightly ajar. Peeking in, he saw his son-in-law sitting with his elbows on the desk, face buried in his hands. Adam looked up, saw Stewart, and lowered his head again.

  “You’re furious with me,” Adam whispered. “You have every right.”

  “Not at all,” Stewart responded. He walked into the room and sat across from his son-in-law. “You are young and in love.”

  “Foolish. I shall spend my evenings in another room. I should have done so already to avoid touching her.”

  “Hope will not be pleased to hear this.”

  Adam’s eyes brightened for a brief moment.

  “I recall the day, like it was yesterday, when I learned of your existence, Adam. Hope had informed me she had an errand to complete. After school, she joined you in this building.”

  Adam smiled.

  “She returned home so excited, I questioned whether she was able to breathe as she spoke. The passion in her tone was for this business, the children but also for the young man she spent time with. She had fallen in love. She loves you.”

  “And I love her, but Doc warned me. Now, I fear I may lose her. I am a stupid, foolish man.” He condemned himself with a harsh tone. “In this business I’m reminded far too often of the danger, a woman may die while giving birth. God has been compassionate twice, and Hope has recovered. I fear we may lose His good graces.”

  Stewart stood, walked to the other side of the desk, and placed his hand on Adam’s shoulder.

  “I sympathize with your dilemma. You have my support,” he informed his son-in-law. “We must accept Hope’s decision, but I would suggest you discourage her from carrying this child.”

  “Pray her head hears my plea,” he responded softly.

  * * *

  Hope and Izabella were enjoying a conversation when Adam entered the room.

  “We will speak more tomorrow. Goodnight, Adam, Hope.” Izabella took her leave.

  Adam closed the door behind her, changed into his sleeping attire, and crawled into the bed. He leaned over and kissed her cheek. It had been a long boring day confined to bed. Her father and Izabella kept her company the entire time. They had discussed everything but the baby, the pregnancy. She hadn’t had a moment of privacy since returning from seeing Doc.

  During her father’s visit, she had pretended to read, taking advantage of the quiet to think. It would be a long pregnancy, but she could picture herself holding their child in her arms. Beautiful images had entered her mind. Adam and her father holding her child. The baby in her womb was healthy—she just knew it, and it would remain healthy.

  “I wish to speak from my heart,” Hope informed Adam.

  He propped himself up and looked at her.

  “I’m scared, but my greatest desire is to become a momma. God has given us another chance, this unexpected gift. How would I live with myself if I destroy such a blessing?”

  He cringed. It broke her heart to see the fear in his face.

  “Hope, you must consider your poppa. He lost your momma and could not bear to lose you. And consider my love for you. I’m consumed with guilt knowing you’re with child. I’ll spend the remainder of my life in remorse if you were to leave me.”

  “I will spend the remainder of my life regretting my decision if I do not carry this child. If I pass, it will not be in vain.”

  “We’ll speak after you rest.”

  “I’ve made my decision. We’ll be parents,” she stated bluntly.

  “Hope. I beg of you. Reconsider your decision. I don’t wish to see your father grieve your loss, regardless the reason. Please. Allow me to escort you to the city. I’ll remain by your side and support you.”

  Hope shifted her eyes and stared at the end of their bed. “I cannot. I believe in my heart we’ll be parents. I’ll obey Doc’s orders without complaint,” she promised, turning her attention back to Adam. “I plan to hear this child speak the words Momma and Poppa.”

  Adam glared at her. “You are a fool. A stubborn fool. I will insist upon strict bed rest. You will not have privacy until this baby is born. Companionship twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. You will not move from this bed without assistance.”

  Hope placed her hands on her flat belly. “We’re going to be parents,” she responded with determination. “We will hold our baby in our arms.”

  * * *

  “Hope is a gutsy lady,” Keeghan remarked. “Going against her husband, father, and doctor. I wouldn’t be attempting another pregnancy and medically, we’ve come a long way. They couldn’t monitor the fetus the way they can today.”

  “Yup,” Will agreed.

  Alexander pointed toward the screen.

  * * *

  It seemed every family member had an opinion about her decision to carry the baby. Regardless of their concerns, she remained positive, determined to give birth to a healthy baby. Her days were spent in bed or on blankets and pillows sitting under a tree. Just as Adam had promised, she had constant companionship. Adam, her father, Izabella, Aunt Vicki and her grandparents took turns. On days of inclement weather, she read novels or stared out the window. The monotony wore on her after a while, but if it meant she would have a healthy baby, she would endure the bed rest. At five months, her stomach had blossomed more than at seven months with her previous pregnancies.

  It took some pleading, but Adam conceded and allowed children into their room. She cherished their time, reading stories and assisting with their studies. Each individual child became her salvation while Poppa, Izabella, or Adam sat by the window, reading.

  Propped against pillows, Hope stared out her window. Izabella entered the room to relieve Poppa. In her mind, she called this the shift change. Hope waited un
til her father was out of sight.

  “I beg of you, you must assist me,” Hope whispered to her friend. “I’ll go mad if I’m not given some privacy. I give you my word. I will not leave this room.”

  Impeccable, atrocious timing, Adam stepped into the room and glared at her. “No. You were warned,” he reminded her. “Constant companionship. Close your eyes. Pretend you are alone.”

  “I was not speaking with you,” Hope grumbled angrily.

  “I believe our patient is getting grumpy. I’ll sit with her,” he informed Izabella. Adam made himself comfortable on the chair, waited for Izabella to disappear, and looked at her. “I love you, Hope.”

  “I don’t believe you,” she mumbled. “You share my bed but will not be intimate with me. You roll onto your side and ignore my attempts to initiate anything.”

  Adam stood, walked to the bed, and sat on the edge. “I yearn for your touch,” he whispered softly, “but I will not risk your life or the life of this child. I need you, Hope Venderkemp. If I touched you and harmed you or this baby….” Adam stopped speaking for a moment. “I cannot take that risk.”

  “Kiss me. Please kiss me,” she pleaded.

  Placing his hands on either side of her shoulders for support, Adam leaned toward her and gave her a gentle, romantic kiss.

  * * *

  Vicki appeared at the door while Adam sat with Hope.

  “Aunt Vicki has come to your rescue. Scoot.”

  “Once upon a time I thought my wife loved me.” Adam kissed Hope’s cheek then disappeared. Vicki took his place on the edge of the bed.