Healing of the Heart: A Shumard Oak Bend Novel (Discerning God’s Best Book 4)

Chapter 20

Early August, 1872Dr. Whitaker’s HomeThomas

Emmaline’s light touch guided Thomas from one group of guests to another. Practiced greetings and shallow conversations wore on him, yet he kept up the pasted smile she’d instructed him to wear.

She directed him to three older ladies, all in mourning clothes. He couldn’t face another round of pleasantries. “Emmaline, darling, you must be parched. Enjoy the company of these beautiful ladies, and I’ll get some punch for you.”

“Beautiful?” Emmaline raised an eyebrow.

Thomas couldn’t tell if she was teasing or was truly offended. “Of course, but no one is more stunning than you.” He pulled her hand to his mouth and brushed his lips over the soft skin. “Excuse me, ladies.”

Whispers of “He’s so handsome,” “You’re so fortunate, Emmaline,” and “Those eyes remind me of my Stanley,” filled the air as Thomas retreated.

Jimmy lifted a punch cup to him. Thomas moved quickly and emptied the contents in one long drink.

“You look wiped.” Jimmy took the cup and refilled it.

“You have no idea.”

Jimmy’s laugh was uncharacteristic, making two ladies turn and stare. “Oh, I understand perfectly. That girl has you wrapped around her little finger. I thought my father was the only one who kowtowed that much, but . . .”

Thomas glared.

Jimmy’s hands went up, nearly spilling the punch. “Okay, I get it. You’re past the teasing. Need a break?”

“Yes, but I can’t shirk my duties.” Thomas rolled his eyes.

“Follow my lead.” Jimmy breathed in what must have been confidence because his entire demeanor changed. He marched to Emmaline’s side, though the coin moved fluidly in his hand behind his back.

“My fine ladies, you look lovely this evening.” Jimmy’s voice shook, and he swayed.

Thomas took hold of the wrist behind the man’s back to steady him. Dampness covered the man’s cool skin. Emmaline looked perturbed at the comment. Thomas squeezed Jimmy’s wrist, and the contact seemed to bolster his friend.

“Miss Whitaker, might I borrow your man for a bit? School business. Dreadful, I know, but there is a matter of great importance we must settle. You understand Thomas’s elevated position and responsibilities.” He let his words hang.

Pride covered Emmaline like a dense fog. Thomas could no longer see the sweet girl, only the outline of a prominent woman enjoying her new power.

Emmaline spoke louder than necessary. “Of course. Thomas, dear, don’t be too long. You are a host at this gathering.”

Thomas dipped his head, then bowed. “Ladies.”

He couldn’t get out of there fast enough and followed Jimmy’s short steps to the place they’d first talked a year ago. “That was amazing. Whatever came over you?” Thomas slapped his friend on the shoulder.

“There are some benefits to being a wallflower. I’ve heard all sorts of excuses men have used to escape the grasps of clinging women. I just didn’t realize how difficult it would be once I started.”

Was Emmaline clingy?

Jimmy pulled out his coin. “Actually, I was telling the truth. I have a small matter of importance to discuss, but it isn’t anything urgent. I needed a breather from all those people.”

They sat on the stone bench. Splashing water from the fountain did its best to calm Thomas’s frayed nerves. The familiar scent of summer filled the air. Much had changed in one year, but not in Dr. Whitaker’s gardens. They looked exactly the same. “Shoot.”

“It’s not that serious. You can keep your gun in the holster.” Jimmy elbowed Thomas. “Lighten up. I’m the one who nearly fainted back there, and there wasn’t even blood. You’re wound as tight as a clock wire.”

“I feel like one. You, on the other hand, are in a good mood and acting as if you don’t have a care in the world. What’s going on?”

“Acting is a good word. You grew up in South Carolina, right?” The coin moved fluidly over Jimmy’s fingers.

“Until I was four. I have distant relatives there but have never been back. Why?”

“The University of South Carolina has a program I’m interested in. Pharmaceutical school.”

“But you’re going to be a doctor.”

“I’d still be a doctor, just not one who cuts people open and hopes they survive.” Jimmy wiped his brow.

“But you’re nearly through. Surely you aren’t thinking of giving up all your hard work to change paths at this point.”

“That’s the thing. I wouldn’t be giving anything up. All my classes would transfer. I’d be behind in chemistry and a few other specific classes, but I think this is a better fit. I could use my love of botany.”

The look on Jimmy’s face was full of hope and a torture Thomas wanted to relieve. “What do your parents say?”

“I wanted to talk to you first.”

Warmth spread over Thomas’s heart. He would miss this friend. “What can I do to help you?”

Jimmy’s face changed to that of pure joy. “Really? You don’t think this is crazy?”

“I think it’s the first time I’ve seen you this excited over something other than a ginkgo tree.”

“Did you know laboratory studies have shown that ginkgo improves blood circulation by opening up blood vessels and making blood less sticky? It’s also an antioxidant.”

The laugh Thomas released took all his stress with it. “My friend, I believe you have found your calling. My offer stands. What can I do to help?”

“Write a letter of recommendation.”

“Me? It won’t carry much weight.”

“Maybe not with the university, but it will with the other professors I’m going to ask to support me in my decision. They think highly of you.”

Thomas wasn’t sure how to take the high praise but knew he’d do anything for this friend. “Sounds like you have a solid plan. What are the next steps?”

“Figuring out how to handle the heat and learning the lingo. What does ‘bless your heart’ mean?”

Thomas’s entire body shook with mirth. “If you have to ask, it applies. Listen, don’t worry about anything. If I can muddle my way through Philadelphia society, you can figure out the South’s version.”

The coin in Jimmy’s fingers went still. “I hope my parents see my dreams as worthy.”

Thomas pointed to the coin. “I believe a wise friend once told me I am that coin. This one decision does not change your worth. If anything, it will increase in value. We need men with your talents and desire to change the pharmaceutical industry. Where I come from, any snake oil salesman would run in your presence.”

“Actually, I have another request.”

“Name it.”

“Some day, I’d like to meet your friend Gabe and his mother, Singing Bird. I’ve heard much about the Indian people’s healing ways. I think I could learn from her if the stuff you spout off is any indicator of her knowledge.”

“You have a standing invitation, my friend. You’re welcome in my family home any time.” A faint furrow creased his brow, and his back tightened. Thomas paused before continuing. “Now, I’m the one with the problem.”

“Emmaline?”

“Exactly. She’s been hinting at a ring after graduation, but she’s given no indication of her willingness to return with me to Missouri.”

“That puts a damper on your plans, or would you consider staying here?”

Thomas mulled over the question. He’d thought about it dozens of times but had never discussed it with someone else. Footsteps sounded along the gravel path. Thomas looked up into the stoic face of a young server.

“Excuse me, sirs. Mr. Shankel, sir. Dr. Whitaker requires your presence in the grand ballroom.”

“Thank you. I’ll be up straight away.”

Jimmy pocketed the coin. “We can talk about this another day. It’s time to welcome in the new recruits. Do you have your acceptance speech prepared?”

“I practiced it all week. I’m not one for public speaking in large groups.”

Jimmy offered a hand and pulled Thomas to his feet. “Pretend it’s a bunch of cows you’re talking to.”

“That I can do. If I break into song, please stop me.”

“As a loyal friend should.”

Thomas appreciated his friend and his ability to reduce the stress he felt.

When they reentered the home, he offered Emmaline his arm and paraded her up the stairs to the grand ballroom, where Dr. Whitaker stood on a raised platform waiting.

“Are you ready, son?”

The man placed a heavy hand on Thomas’s shoulder. Thomas nodded, doing his best to swallow his nervousness.

“Good. Don’t disappoint me.”

Thomas felt Dr. Whitaker meant his statement for more than the speech.

The stringed instruments quieted as Dr. Whitaker raised his hand, the gesture silencing the crowd. Thomas scanned the gathering. A glowing Emmaline stood in front of the stage next to her mother, who looked to have more than her accustomed amount of powder on her face and heavy color on her cheeks and lips, accentuating her dull eyes. Addison Blakeney stood to her right; his goons flanked behind him as if guarding a treasure.

Dr. Whitaker spoke his name, and Thomas forced a smile, willing himself to pay attention.

“One year ago, Mr. Shankel occupied the same position you new students do now. His consistent top-ranking performance in his class and achievements in the student intern position over the past months have exceeded the board’s expectations. Mr. Shankel’s commitment to serving his peers and the medical profession with dedication, integrity, and compassion, along with his exceptional ability and strong work ethic, have earned him the prestigious title of Medical Ambassador for the Class of 1873.”

A roar of applause echoed through the room, and a surge of pride threatened to swell within him. Yet, as he glanced at Addison’s measured applause and strained smile, a sense of humility washed over him. Not everyone in the room shared Dr. Whitaker’s support for his position.

Thomas anchored his feet and relaxed his toes, allowing the noise to dissipate before beginning.

“Dr. Whitaker, esteemed faculty, fellow peers, and new students, I am truly grateful for your generous words and this tremendous honor. It is with a deep sense of humility that I accept this responsibility, fully aware of the trust and expectations placed upon me. Your guidance, Dr. Whitaker, and the collective mentorship of everyone present has helped shape me into the person standing before you now.”

Thomas stole a glance at Emmaline. He wouldn’t mention her by name but hoped she read the sentiments in his face for her help in acclimating him to Philadelphia society’s elite.

“I pledge to approach this role with utmost dedication and integrity, striving to fulfill its duties to the best of my abilities. May I continue to learn and grow, drawing inspiration from the remarkable individuals around me.”

Thomas looked at Jimmy, who nodded once in understanding.

“Together, let us work toward our shared goals of healing and easing suffering, providing compassionate care, and pursuing lifelong learning with unwavering determination and a steadfast commitment to excellence. Thank you.”

This time, the applause did not affect him. He stood determined to fulfill his commitment to the future, no matter the cost.

Many hands reached for his as he stepped into the crowd. Hearty congratulations and well-wishes accompanied equally enthusiastic pats on the back. Judge Pennypacker wiped his eyes with a handkerchief and waited his turn.

“My boy.” He blew his nose, then offered the wet hand to Thomas. “I couldn’t be more proud if you were my flesh and blood.”

Thomas ignored the hand and hugged the man, causing an animated response of rapid clapping from his wife. Thomas winked at her, stilling her hands, which moved to her now-flushed cheeks.

Thomas took a step back. “Thank you, sir.”

The judge cleared his throat. “Quite proud.” He wiped his eyes again.

A whiff of strong drink filled Thomas’s senses as Dr. Whitaker joined the conversation. “Exceptional speech, Thomas. Perhaps you should run for office. Don’t you think, Judge?”

Judge Pennypacker brightened. “Now, wouldn’t that be something?”

Thomas interrupted before the conversation could continue. “I believe I have all the excitement I can handle at the moment.”

Dr. Whitaker reached his hand out and pulled his daughter to his side. “Yes. Yes, you do. Emmaline, sweetheart, be a good girl, and get your Thomas something to drink.”

“Yes, Father.”

Thomas didn’t miss the jerk in her smile that broadened into a forced full one.

She offered a curtsey to the Pennypackers. “Thank you both for coming. It’s good to see you feeling well, ma’am.” Emmaline touched Thomas’s arm as she passed, her fingers trailing down his jacket sleeve like octopus tentacles seeking a meal.

Mrs. Pennypacker slipped her arm in the crook of her husband’s. “What a precious daughter you have, William. She’ll make someone a good wife.”

Thomas could almost feel the weight of her gaze on him, causing a prickling sensation at the back of his neck. Her words seemed to hang in the air, heavy with implications Thomas wasn’t ready to confront.

Dr. Whitaker took a glass offered to him by a servant. “She’s young yet. Another year will tell. If you’ll excuse me, I see someone I need to speak with.”

Emmaline returned with a glass similar to her father’s. Thomas stared at it.

“Father’s best.” She offered the amber liquid to him.

Thomas moved the glass away from his nose. “His best should be reserved for his finest guest.” Thomas handed the drink to the judge, who took it greedily. “Thank you, sir, for taking a chance on me.”

The man took a sip and licked his lips, making a guttural sound with the motion. “When my Martha told me about you, she had not only admiration in her words but also confidence. She believed in you. That’s all it took for me. I’d do anything for my daughter. Most men would.” The judge looked first at Emmaline, then Thomas. “To another fine year.” The man raised his glass, then drained the contents.

Thomas’s limbs felt as heavy as his heart. Expectations from all sides crushed in on him. Waves of emotion drained his final amount of energy, leaving him at the mercy of an ocean of responsibility.

He just had to stay afloat for one more year.