A spinster by choice
When Willa Wright’s fiancé abandoned her, he ended all her hopes for romance. Now she dedicates herself to teaching Pinewood’s children, including the new pastor’s young wards. If she didn’t know better, Reverend Calvert’s kindness could almost fool Willa into caring again. Almost...
Though Matthew Calvert adores his niece and nephew, he wants a family of his own, too. The more he sees of the pretty schoolteacher, the more he wants that future with her. Yet Willa, so warm to her pupils, is ice-cool toward him. But where there’s a woman like Willa, there’s a man determined to guide her back to love.
“Have these children names?”
Willa’s reversion to the formal, polite tone called Matthew back to his purpose in coming. “Yes, of course. This is Joshua—he’s six years old and in first grade.” He smiled down at his nephew. “And this is Sally.” His niece pressed back against his legs. He placed his hands on her small, narrow shoulders and gave a reassuring squeeze. “She’s five years old, and feeling a little overwhelmed at the moment.”
The hem of the teacher’s gown whispered over the wide plank floor as she came to stand in front of them. She looked down and gave the children a warm, welcoming smile he wished were aimed at him. “Hello, Joshua and Sally. I’m your teacher, Miss Wright. Welcome to Oak Street School.”
Miss Wright. She was indeed. Matthew frowned and sucked in a breath, irritated by such whimsy. Miss Wright, with her narrow, aristocratic nose and small, square chin, was wreaking havoc with his normally sensible behavior. He was acting like a smitten schoolboy.
DOROTHY CLARK
Critically acclaimed, award-winning author Dorothy Clark lives in rural New York, in a home she designed and helped her husband build (she swings a mean hammer!) with the able assistance of their three children. When she is not writing, she and her husband enjoy traveling throughout the United States doing research and gaining inspiration for future books. Dorothy believes in God, love, family and happy endings, which explains why she feels so at home writing stories for Love Inspired Books. Dorothy enjoys hearing from her readers and may be contacted at [email protected].
Wooing the Schoolmarm
Dorothy Clark
MILLS & BOON
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The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.
—Psalms 34:18
Books with historical settings require a great deal of time-consuming research. This book is dedicated with deep appreciation to Rhonda Shaner Pollock of the Portville Historical & Preservation Society for her gracious and unfailing help in uncovering details of a schoolmarm’s daily life
in a rural village in 1840. Thank you, Rhonda.
“Commit thy works unto the Lord,
and thy thoughts shall be established.”
Your Word is truth. Thank You, Jesus.
To You be the glory.
Contents
Chapter One
Pinewood Village, 1840
“Here we are. This is the schoolhouse.” Matthew Calvert looked from the small, white, frame building to his deceased brother’s children. Joshua had on his “brave” face, which meant he was really afraid, and Sally looked about to cry. Please, Lord, don’t let her cry. You know my heart turns to mush when she tears up. “Everything is going to be fine. You’ll make nice friends and have a good time learning