Chapter Seven: Virginia Soothes Rose

The corn-husk mattress on the other side of the room started to rustle. Virginia must be waking up. “Have you been awake all night Rose? What is the matter? Are you Ill?” She asked worriedly.
“No, I’m fine.” Rose answered listlessly turning toward the moonlit window.
“You know Rose, we all thought it would be you marrying João. It was a surprise for us all when we heard the announcement in church that he was marrying Adelina. Is that what is bothering you?”
“Yes.” Was the only word Rose could utter as her throat constricted with tears.
Unaware of her sisters searing pain, Virginia continued, “Forget him. He is not worth a backward glance. He’s so callous and unfeeling and a terrible flirt. He would only break your heart again and again as he became enamored by one new face after another. You are so good and kind and beautiful. Everyone loves you. They can’t help it. You’re fun to be around. You make people feel good just being with you. You deserve so much better than João. I think Tony is ten times the man that João is.”
“Please Virginia, let’s not talk about it. I could never love Tony. I don’t know how I can get through this wedding day.
At these words, Virginia got out of her bed and went over to Rose. She put her arms around her and hugged her tightly as Rose’s tears streamed down her face. “All right rose, we won’t talk about this again. But I want you to know I love you. We are all family. There isn’t anything in the world I wouldn’t do for you to ease your pain. Please don’t cry.”
“I’ll get you some warm milk and a cool cloth for your face.” Virginia said as she bustled out of the room quickly.
Rose felt drained but a lot better that morning after Virginia had soothed her with her home remedies and love. The flood of tears were gone. Her eyes were still a little red, and over bright, and her face was pale, but she held her head high as the family rode to the wedding in their wagon.