Page 115 of The School Mistress (Emerson Pass Historicals 1)

“Only time will tell,” I said. “But I have a good feeling that this community will grow into a place of love, friendship, and tolerance. You set the foundation with your generosity and fair-mindedness. We have only to head further in that direction with each year that passes.”

“Ah, my love. What did I do to deserve you?”

“And I, you?”

I turned on my side and nestled against Alexander, unable to predict the future but full of hope. Of course, I couldn’t know then that the years would indeed bring much joy to Alexander and me. Our children and the children of our beloved friends did grow up to have love stories of their own and children and grandchildren. As is true in life, the paths to their true norths were not without a few bumps and twists. However, they were armed for any battle because of the depth of their spirits and goodness of their characters. They knew from our example that love was the only thing worth fighting for, the only thing that can fight darkness and evil. But those stories are for another time and not mine to tell.

I knew only this as I drifted off to sleep. Courage is truly the only map to a satisfying life. We must not shy away from that which frightens us. For if we do, we might not fulfill our destiny, our true callings. Without bravery, we might miss those who will fill the hole in our hearts and for whom we are the missing piece.

Step off the train, dear ones. Your life awaits.

The Sugar Queen