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Emma's Engagement

By Susan G Mathis

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Chapter 1

Under the warm embrace of the noon-day sun, Emma Row grinned at the captivating view—and the handsome lightkeeper standing before her. For the first time, Michael Diepolder had made her a picnic luncheon set on a grassy Thousand Island Park riverbank overlooking Rock Island Lighthouse and the majestic St. Lawrence River. The gentle breeze carried the sweet scent of wildflowers, and the pleasant laughter of river waves provided a melodic backdrop to their intimate alfresco luncheon.
“Oh Michael! It’s lovely. Thank you for this.”
He reached out and kissed her hand before motioning for her to sit. “You’re welcome, dearest. In our three months of courting, you’ve provided all the meals.”
“But you’ve also taken me to the Columbian Hotel for luncheon a dozen times.”
Michael grinned, snapping a half-nod. “Yes, but I wanted today to be special. Without distractions.”
Emma pulsed ticked up a few notches as she assessed the picnic. He’d spread a cozy blanket on the lush green grass surrounded by the sweet scents of nature, a wicker picnic basket awaiting her discovery. The St. Lawrence River sprawled before them, its tranquil waters reflecting the brilliance of the sunny sky. Rock Island Lighthouse, Michael’s home and the stoic guardian across the main channel, stood proudly as if keeping watch over them.
Emma gazed at the man who had stolen her heart, her dreams, and her sleep for the past three months. Clad in his Sunday best, Michael exuded a sense of professionalism and quiet dignity. What might his dark, well-trimmed beard feel like? She’d itched to touched it and his curly hair, too. They gave him a distinguished and polished look.
His piercing brown eyes caught her attention as they conveyed a sense of focus and determination, reflecting the responsibility of his position as a lightkeeper. A hint of a smile graced his face, and a few smile lines feathering around his eyes and across his forehead added to his allure, suggesting he had weathered some difficult experiences and overcome.
Emma pulled her gaze away and sat. She adjusted her skirts and motioned toward the wicker basket. “Shall I?”
His gentle, affirming nod and soft smile welcomed her to take a peek as he joined her. She unpacked the picnic basket, revealing an assortment of delicious treats—sandwiches, fresh fruit, and a chilled bottle of sparkling lemonade. The atmosphere resounded with the promise of a perfect afternoon.
After Michael gave a blessing, he leaned back on an elbow, staring at the wispy clouds above them. “What a glorious day! Just perfect for late June, don’t you think?”
She poured two glasses of lemonade and handed him one, but he didn’t drink. What was going on? Despite their brief but sweet courtship, he had always enjoyed food and drink with gusto. But today was different. An air of nervous energy surrounded him, his noticeable lack of appetite puzzling.
“Aren’t you hungry? This lemonade is delicious.”
Michael’s forehead creased in apparent forgetfulness of the meal before him. He took a sip, reached for a sandwich, and took a bite. “It’s simple fare, but I wanted to treat you. You’ve delighted me with your delicious meals far too often.”
She shrugged. “This is very thoughtful, Michael. But besides reading, cooking is my favorite pastime.”
“Well, then, I’m the luckiest lightkeeper around.”
“And I enjoy having someone to cook for.”
She sensed he wanted to say something important, but she held her tongue. They indulged in the simple pleasures of their feast, exchanging laughter and tender glances. Though she longed to hear his heart, she had learned that he’d reveal his thoughts when he was ready.
But she couldn’t help but steal glimpses at the intriguing lightkeeper. Rock Island Lighthouse had always fascinated her, and now the lightkeeper did, too. “Ever since I moved to Thousand Island Park eight years ago, I’ve enjoyed seeing the lighthouse. There’s something mysterious and enchanting about it.”
A tiny moan escaped his lips, and his face lit up. “I’d like you to see it soon, my darling. I’ve been working on it, Emma. Truly. I want it to be in tip top shape for your visit and for Ada’s arrival for her summer break.”
Emma put down her sandwich. Finally! Since the day Mr. Wiseman introduced them, she’d been hoping to see the lighthouse and meet Michael’s daughter. “I’d love to meet Ada and see your silent sentinel.”
Michael grinned, taking her hand in his and giving it a squeeze. “She’ll be glad to meet you, too. And the lighthouse? It’s much like our love, Emma. Quiet and steady, yet ready to illuminate the darkest of nights.”
Our love? She gasped at his confession. This reserved man had only declared his love once, and he’d shown her only a rare smidgen of affection. His German heritage, she’d reasoned.
She nodded, words lost in the surprise of the moment. Would he say more? Oh, how she hoped so!
For several minutes, they savored the beauty of the summer’s day. The river, with its gentle ripples and occasional passing boats, added a sense of tranquility. Seagulls circled overhead, their calls blending harmoniously with the sounds of nature.
Was that all he had to say? Disappointment tugged at her thoughts. Patience, Emma. Patience.
When the meal was done and Emma had packed up the basket, they stood and folded the blanket together into a neat little square, setting it atop the basket. But then, Michael turned pensive. Something in his demeanor set her tummy to tumble and nerves to tingle.
He tugged on his right earlobe as he always did when a mixture of nervousness and anticipation danced in his eyes. He took her hand in his free one. After he sighed deeply, a tiny smile finally settled on his lips.
“Emma Roe, I’ve waited for this moment for what feels like a lifetime. With every passing day, my love for you has grown stronger. Your sweet, gentle nature adds a sense of peace to life. You bring out the best in me and make me feel complete. So, I must ask, will you be my wife and grow old with me?”
Emma’s heart took flight and soared on the breeze, and a squeaky little breath escaped her lips. As an old-maid past her prime, she’d waited thirty-seven years for this very moment. How was she to respond? Tears of joy spilled down her cheeks as she drank in Michael’s soulful gaze.
“Oh, yes, Michael. I’ve dreamed of this moment, too, and I can’t think of anything I want to do more than spend the rest of my life with you.” She threw her arms around him but quickly drew back, surprised at her gregarious exuberance.
Very unladylike.
Instead of scolding her, he tenderly wiped away her tears and cradled her face in his hands, his eyes fixed upon hers with passion that spoke volumes. Her heart raced with the anticipation of their first kiss, and she met his gaze with an equal measure of affection.
With the sun sprinkling its radiant light upon them, Michael leaned in, closing the distance between them. Their lips met in a sweet, tender kiss, a silent exchange of promises and emotions that needed no words.
The world around them seemed to fade away as they enjoyed the moment. The soft rustle of leaves in the breeze, the distant sounds of the river, and the occasional call of seagulls became mere whispers in the background. All that existed was the warmth of their connection and the joy of their love.
As her fingers gently traced the contours of his hand as they kissed, she felt his pulse that echoed the same rhythm as her own. She’d never been kissed before, and the experience felt like a tiny fragment of eternity, a timeless exchange that sealed the commitment of their love.
Captivated by the reality of their engagement, she tugged him closer, cherishing the moment. When they parted, a mutual smile played on their lips, conveying more than words ever could.
Michael licked his lips. “I love you, my future wife.”
Emma giggled. “I love you, too.”
He pulled her into another warm embrace, and as he held her, Emma dreamed of their future together, their hearts beating in harmony with the rhythm of the river and the promise of many more kisses in the days and years to come.
But Michael was a forty-two-year-old widower and father to Ada. He knew the intimacies of marriage and family. She did not. And his twelve-year-old daughter would likely bring blessings—and challenges—to their union. Could she live up to his expectations of being a wife and mother?
When she looked into his eyes, Michael gifted her with a gaze that spoke of the future. Perhaps she could do it. She’d give it her best.
As she basked in the joy of their engagement, he guided her to a cozy bench nearby where they could sit together, still overlooking the river and the distant lighthouse.
The lighthouse would one day be her home! She let out a hearty laugh as her excitement overflowed. “I’ve always wondered what it would be like to live on a tiny island, but to live in a lighthouse? I never imagined I’d have such a blessing. I also know that it’ll be, well, different, to be a lightkeeper’s wife—with the long hours, isolation, and the duties—but I’ll do my best. I’m sure it will be quite a change from my life as a librarian here in Thousand Island Park.”
He sighed, compassion shining in his eyes. “I hate that you’d have to give up your work for me, and I know it won’t be easy, my love. But with you by my side, every challenge will be an adventure. And I’m sure you’ll bring the special warmth of Thousand Island Park to our little island haven.”
Emma leaned her head on his arm. “And books.”
He laughed. “Yes. Lots of books.”
As they continued to gaze at the lighthouse, Emma pondered the sacrifices she’d make—especially leaving behind her role as a librarian and the connection of the tight-knit Thousand Island Park community. Yet, the prospect of building a life with Michael filled her with a sense of unparalleled happiness.
With a tender smile, she whispered, “I’d gladly give it up for you, Michael. Being your wife will surely be the greatest adventure I could ever imagine.”

~ ~ ~

Michael sucked in a steadying breath as he held his soon-to-be bride close, the gentle librarian who charmed everyone frequenting the Park’s library. Her shy nature made her approachable and inviting for those seeking assistance among the bookshelves. Behind her reading spectacles, her gaze held a depth of knowledge and empathy. She was slow to speak and always ready to provide a listening ear to those in need. How someone hadn’t won her heart before now was a mystery and a gift.
Somehow, in God’s great mercy, he had won her heart! He wanted to jump up from that bench and shout it to the world. Instead, he sat next to her, quietly thanking the good Lord for her.
Dressed in modest yet tasteful attire, Emma’s soft-spoken mannerisms were complemented by her warm and understanding mahogany eyes. Despite her gentle disposition, she also harbored a curious strength. When faced with challenges, Emma exhibited resilience and determination, just what she’d need to be a lightkeeper’s wife and a stepmother.
Best of all, her love for literature and the pursuit of knowledge made her all the more interesting. That’d be welcome on those long winter nights. He’d come to love her for all of it.
But a weight settled on Michael’s shoulders as he pondered how this gentle and shy librarian would handle the challenges that awaited her on tiny Rock Island. She’d voiced her apprehensions, valid ones he shared, about the responsibilities of being a lightkeeper’s wife. But she hadn’t mentioned her role as a stepmother to his twelve-year-old daughter, Ada. That worried him the most.
Though he should discuss the matter with her, he hesitated, the weight of the unspoken words pressing on him. He had wanted to savor this perfect moment, to bask in the joy of their love before broaching the topic.
He shifted to face Emma who stared at the lighthouse across the water. The sparkle in her eyes mirrored the radiance of the sun, and for a moment, Michael found himself captivated by the beauty of the scene and the woman beside him.
Her thin, narrow face, tiny turned up nose, and full pink lips reminded him so much of Ada. So did her thick auburn hair. Why, they could pass for mother and daughter.
But how would Emma feel about that? How would Ada?
Could Emma be happy with life on the tiny island, the duties of being a lightkeeper’s wife, and her role as stepmother to his twelve-year-old daughter? Though they’d talked about Ada several times, Emma had yet to meet her. His daughter lived over one-hundred-fifty miles away while in school in Rochester, living with her grandparents. And now she’d be home for the summer.
“Emma.” His voice betrayed his nervousness. “Today has been perfect, hasn’t it?”
She nodded, a soft smile resting on her lips. “Absolutely, Michael. I couldn’t have asked for a better day.”
He took a deep breath, searching for the right words. “There’s something I need to talk to you about.” He rubbed is earlobe as his gaze shifted to a passing boat before returning to face her.
Emma’s expression turned from curiosity to concern etching her features. “What is it, Michael?”
“My daughter, Ada, is coming home. In two days.”
Emma’s nose twitched as he told her about a telegram he’d received announcing Ada’s return. A range of emotions played across Emma’s face—surprise, apprehension, and perhaps a touch of nervousness. The initial joy of their perfect day was tempered by the reality of responsibilities and adjustments they’d soon have to face.
Emma swallowed, a small smile quivering on her lips. “I look forward to meeting her, Michael. You’ve told me a few things about her, but tell me more. Please. I want to know everything.”
She wasn’t vexed?
He described Ada’s vivacious personality and her love for science, and he hinted at the adjustment that awaited Emma as she took on the role of a stepmother. “You’ll make a great mother, Emma, I’m sure of it. And we’ll face every challenge together.”
Emma nodded, listening attentively, her hands clasped together in her lap. He could almost see the wheels turning in her mind as she processed the information. When he finished, a moment of silence hung in the air.
Then, with a gentle smile, Emma leaned over and kissed his cheek. That silent agreement to face whatever lay ahead sent a wave of relief and gratitude to wash over him.
Understanding and strength sparkled in her eyes. “I’m sure I’ll love her as much as I love her father.”
But would she?
Emma slipped her arm into the crook of his and squeezed it. She laid her head on his shoulder. “Tell me more about your girl, please.”
His pulse quickened as he began to paint a portrait of his beloved daughter, a reflection of both pride and concern. “Ada and my late wife were like two peas in a pod. They shared an incredible bond that was evident in everything they did together.”
Emma sighed. “That’s how my mother and I were, too, even though I had six siblings I had to share her with.”
His gaze wandered to the lighthouse. “Her mother died before I took the post of lightkeeper, but even these four years later, Ada still misses her mother terribly. Losing her at such a young age has left a lasting impact on her, so I’m uneasy about how she’ll accept you. I’ve mentioned you in my letters to her, but…”
Emma patted his hand. “I’m sure it’ll be fine, Michael, but I’m sorry for her loss—and yours.”
“Ada is a beautiful and smart young girl, Emma. She has this way of looking at the world that just captivates you. But she also lacks a bit of self-confidence, probably from the loss. It can sometimes come across as a little obstinate, but deep down, I think it’s her way of coping.”
For several long moments Emma said nothing. Was he scaring her? Would she renege on the betrothal?
His heart held a tinge of remorse that lingered just beneath the surface. If he were honest, he doted on Ada far too much. But their bond was undeniable, a connection that transcended the physical distance that had separated them every school year.
He loved his daughter more than the rising sun. How would Emma fit into that closeness?
His mind journeyed back to the day he had accepted the position of lightkeeper, just months after his wife’s passing. But the responsibility of the job required his full attention, leaving him with a difficult decision—how to ensure Ada’s well-being and education. Unable to juggle both roles effectively, he made the heart-wrenching decision to send her to live with his parents in Rochester.
From that day since, guilt had settled in his chest like an anchor, a constant reminder of the sacrifice he had made for the sake of his duty. He had wanted the best for Ada, and the decision, while practical, oppressed him. The distance between them had only intensified the longing, and regret lingered in the corners of his mind.
As Michael sat next to Emma surrounded by the rhythmic waves of the river, he replayed moments from Ada’s childhood in his memory. Her laughter, the way her eyes sparkled with curiosity, and the warmth of her hugs flooded his thoughts.
A sigh escaped his lips, a mixture of love and remorse. He wished he could turn back time, find a way to be both the father she deserved and the lightkeeper the river community needed. Remorse might linger, but so did the determination to be the father Ada needed, especially this summer, and to create a haven of love amid the waves of responsibility. Emma could play an important part in it all.
Emma interrupted his musings. “I’m not worried, Michael. Every child has his or her challenges. We’ll face Ada’s together.”
He blew out a deep breath, his thoughts reflecting a complexity of emotions. “You’re a gift from God, Emma. Ada is at that age where she needs a mother, but she can be impulsive and stubborn. It’s part of growing pains, I suppose. But, underneath it all, she has a heart as big as this river.”
Emma shifted in her seat. “I’m sure she does. What does she like to do?”
A warm chuckle escaped as he remembered special moments with Ada. “She has a fascination with fishing and the stars. She often drags me from the tower for a quiet morning on the water, talking about life and fishing. And at night, she loves to join me on the parapet to stare at the constellations. It’s our way of connecting since we lost her mother.”
His eyes met Emma’s, gratitude and affection filling his heart. “Though Ada may be tough on the outside, she’s still a little girl yearning for love and understanding. I believe together we can offer her that, Emma. I believe you can be the anchor both of us need.”
Emma sighed. “I’d be honored, Michael, and I’ll do my best.”
He gasped, realizing the imminent possibilities before them. While the decision to marry had been made in the quiet corners of his heart, now that it was real, and he couldn’t imagine facing the upcoming chapter without Emma by his side.
His pulse quickened. “My sweet Emma. What would you think if we were to marry right away so we can enjoy the summer as a family?”

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