by Molly Jebber
Daed took the reins. “Joel?”
“Joel Wenger. His family recently moved here from Lancaster, and they attended your wedding. He and I are getting better acquainted.”
“You’ll have to ask him to supper. I need to meet this young man if my dochder is interested in him.” He gave her an impish grin.
Peter looked at Daed. “He’s kumming to our haus soon to meet Snuggles. I already asked him.”
Daed laughed. “Good for you.”
Ellie and Peter walked to the haus and went inside. “Time to wash your hands, feed you, and play one game of checkers before you go to bed.”
Liza held her arms open, and Peter ran and hugged her. “Guess what? Ellie and I met Joel at our fishing spot, and he kept staring at her.” He moved his eyeballs from side to side and chuckled.
“Peter, remind me never to tell you a secret.” Ellie crossed her arms.
He wrinkled his nose. “Why?”
Liza handed him a wet rag. “Because you couldn’t keep it inside. You’d tell. Now wipe your hands.”
He stuck out his bottom lip. “Nah, I wouldn’t.” He pouted, wiped his hands, and handed the rag back to Liza.
Liza had dishes on the table filled with pot roast and vegetables. “You’re a good boy. We have no complaints.”
Daed came inside and took his usual chair at the table.
Peter entertained them with stories of playing with his friends at the pond throughout supper. He pushed his empty plate aside. “Time for checkers.”
“Not until after your bath. I have pots of warm water on the stove. I’ll do the dishes first.”
“I’ll take care of Peter.” Ellie took the pots of warm water Liza had prepared off the stove and carried them to the tub.
Peter bathed, changed into his nightclothes, and snatched the checkers game off the shelf. “I’m gonna win!”
Ellie played two games of checkers, took Peter to bed, had him say his prayers, tucked him under the covers, and then joined Liza and Daed. “He talks me into another game each time, and he beats me. He’s a smart child.”
Liza quirked her brow. “Tell us more about Joel.”
Ellie smiled and joined them for coffee at the table. “He’s a gentleman, and his eyes don’t stray when he talks to me. He pays attention to what I’m saying. I told him about the loss of Mamm, and he was understanding.”
Daed settled back in his seat. “Peter didn’t mention a specific date Joel was to kumme over. Maybe the next time you run into him or after Sunday service you can ask him.” He teased her, “Or let Peter ask him.”
“Daed, don’t ask Joel a lot of questions and scare him away.”
“I want to learn all I can about this young man if my dochder is entertaining thoughts of him.”
“Liza, talk sense into him.”
Liza squeezed Ellie’s fingers. “You’ll get no help here. I’m all for your daed finding out about Joel. And I may have a few questions.”
“I don’t have a chance with any man. You’ll both ruin it for me before the relationship has a tiny thread of a chance to begin.”
Jacob stretched his long arms across the table and folded his hands. “We’ll be gentle.”
Ellie yawned and stretched. “Mrs. Wenger is a bit difficult. She didn’t crack a smile when I met her. Leah said her mamm prattled on about me in a negative way. I’m sure she would prefer that Joel not have anything to do with me.”
Liza held her hand and rubbed her thumb across Ellie’s hand. “Ignore them. They’re wrong to talk about you, and she may have been having a bad day. She shouldn’t judge you based on gossip.”
“I am. So far, Joel hasn’t asked me about it. I’m going to wait to bring it up until we’ve had time to build our friendship.”
“You’re taking a big risk not telling him right away.” Liza stood and removed her apron.
Ellie grinned from ear to ear. “I want to show him I’ve changed before I tell him about my past.” She yawned again. “Time for bed.” She padded to her room.
Her stomach fluttered with excitement about Joel. Would he accept her once he found out the truth? He’d ask at some point. Would his mamm learn to accept her if she and Joel grew serious? She wouldn’t want in-laws who wouldn’t accept her. The Wengers’ attitudes could cause tension between them. Joel had a mamm she wasn’t sure she could win over. She wouldn’t go against God’s will for her life again. And causing discord in the Wenger family would definitely not be God’s will.
* * *
Ellie woke early Tuesday morning. She milked the cows and fed the horses. Stepping inside, she sniffed the aroma of eggs and bacon frying in the two cast-iron skillets. “I could devour a bear, I’m so hungry.” She poured coffee for the three of them and sat.
Daed patted her arm and gazed at her with his kind brown eyes. “I’d have milked the cows. You have the bakery to tend to.”
“Sometimes I take pleasure in milking and find it a peaceful place to have a chat with God.”
Liza served them and took her seat. “You are cheerful most of the time, but you have a little extra happy skip in your step since meeting Joel. I’m anxious to find out where this leads.”
“I’m not in any hurry for you to get serious with anyone. I prefer having you right here with us.” Daed gave her a loving pat on the arm.
“I love you both for supporting me. Who knows? You may be stuck with me for a very long time if these gossips have anything to do with it!”
Liza swiped the air. “You’ll find someone. I still have butterflies when I set eyes on your daed. Look at Jacob and me. I never thought I’d marry again, and then he came to town and changed my life. I’m so glad he did.”
Daed beamed. “Me too.”
“Ellie, you have a habit of ignoring the unpleasant. Be careful.” Liza sighed. “Please understand. I don’t want to squelch your joy over Joel. I just don’t want you to get hurt. He’s bound to hear more about you. On another note, do you mind handling the bakery today with Hannah? Abe came by early this morning and told me Esther’s not well. She should rest, and I’ll do her chores. My dear schweschder will fight me on keeping off her feet, but I’m going to insist she stay put. She’s got a sick stomach.”
“Not at all, and give Aunt Esther a hug for me.” Ellie kissed Liza’s cheek and hurried to devour her eggs and take two bites of her bacon. “Liza, I appreciate your advice, but I’m still going to wait to tell Joel about my past.” She headed down the hallway. “I’m going to my room to change and then head to the bakery. Hannah’s picking me up.”
Liza stood. “I’ll give Peter another few minutes, and then I’ll get him up for breakfast and school.”
Daed opened the door. “I’ll be in the barn.”
Ellie rushed outside and got in Hannah’s buggy. “Greetings, best friend. Liza’s taking the day off to help your mamm. We’re on our own at the bakery.”
Hannah frowned. “Mamm was up all night with an upset stomach. I’m glad Liza offered to stay with her. She won’t listen to me or Daed. Liza has a way with her.”
Ellie leaned her head on Hannah’s shoulder for a moment. “Liza has a way with all of us. I can’t believe I gave her such a hard time when we first met. She’s always got our best interests at heart.”
Ellie and Hannah waved to Daed and left. Ellie was glad she lived close to town and Hannah.
Dr. Harrison passed in his buggy and tipped his hat. The girls smiled.
Ellie enjoyed the fresh air, yellow leaves on the maple trees, and the lush green pastures along the way.
Hannah wrinkled her nose. “You look as if you found money on the side of the road.”
Ellie recounted her conversation with Joel. “It’s ridiculous. My mind races with thoughts of Joel. I can’t control it.”
Hannah flicked the reins to urge the mare to pick up her pace. “I’m glad. Enjoy it.”
“What about you, Hannah? Hasn’t anyone caught your attention?”
“Not yet.”
Hannah rolled her eyes. “He’s a flirt, and he doesn’t have a serious bone in his body. Everything is fun to him, and he lives one day at a time.”
“You’ll find someone irresistible one day.”
“Jah, God has a plan for all of us. I’ll wait until He introduces me to the right one. If not, when you have kinner, I’ll borrow them to spoil.”
Ellie admired Hannah’s wisdom. Her friend was an old soul in a young woman’s body. She gave the best advice, had patience, and was the most loyal friend Ellie had ever had. “I have noticed Timothy with several different girls at the socials. He keeps them laughing, but some girls stay away from him.”
“He’s broken a few hearts. I doubt he means any harm, but his flirting gets him in trouble. Some girls fawn over him, and when he concentrates on one, even though this doesn’t last long, the others get perturbed.” Hannah drove to the livery and handed the reins to the owner.
Ellie got out of the buggy the same time as Hannah, and they walked outside. “You’re smart to recognize these things about Timothy. He might surprise you one day and be ready to settle down. Maybe then you’ll reconsider.”
“I’m not in any hurry. And someone else might kumme along before then.” She shrugged and playfully bumped Ellie’s arm, then glanced at the people milling about the town.
Ellie overheard two men discussing the election for president taking place on November fifth. The short one was for William Howard Taft, and the taller man argued Woodrow Wilson would be a better choice. She was glad the Amish didn’t get involved with politics. She would imagine the Englischers, who had differences of opinion on the matter, could get into some heated debates.
Ellie stood on her tiptoes to glance over the two Ford motorcars and buggies on the road in front of the bakery. “Hannah, what is Abigail doing here?”
“If her scowl is any indication, I’d say she’s up to no good.”
“She wouldn’t be here to discuss Joel, would she?”
“Probably. She’s rude and bold. Just stand your ground.”
They approached her.
Ellie folded her hands behind her. “Abigail, we don’t open for another two hours. If there’s something you need, I’ll be happy to let you in and get it for you.”
Abigail raised her chin and glowered at Ellie. “I’m not here to shop. I came to speak with you in private before your customers arrive.” She glanced at Hannah. “Greetings, Hannah. Do you mind giving us a few minutes?”
Hannah met Ellie’s gaze. “Ellie, I can stay.”
“I appreciate it, but I’ll be all right. I’m going to walk her around to the back. I’ll be inside in a bit.”
Hannah nodded, got out her key, and unlocked the door. She hesitated before going inside.
Ellie chose the path between the bakery and furniture store. She kept her head down to avoid eye contact with any passersby. She didn’t care to make idle chitchat with anyone right now. Her goal was to listen to Abigail, remain short on answers, and start work as soon as possible.
Abigail followed her in silence.
Ellie faced her and waited.
Abigail stood, feet apart, arms crossed. “Joel is of interest to me. We had a pleasant supper together with my parents, and his parents adore me. Don’t waste your time with him.”
“What gives you the idea I’m wasting time with Joel, as you put it?” This girl was obnoxious. She and Joel were no business of Abigail’s.
“I noticed you flirting with him on Sunday.”
She took in an exasperated breath. “I’m not going to discuss Joel with you. Our friendship isn’t any of your concern.”
“Listen to me, Ellie Graber. You’re not fit for any Amish man. You can’t be trusted. Stay away from Joel. He’s mine.”
Ellie narrowed her eyes. The old brash Ellie threatened to tell the girl what she really thought of her, but she’d worked too hard to prove she had changed, nor did she want to give Abigail more gossip to spread. “My friends and family have forgiven me for my mistakes. I’m disheartened you choose not to.”
“I have a right to my opinion.” She scowled. “You’re not the kind of girl I’d want to befriend.”
Ellie stared into Abigail’s eyes. “I doubt Joel would appreciate your visit here today, and furthermore, he can make his own decisions.” She turned on her heel and walked the narrow way to the front door of the bakery, hoping Hannah had left it unlocked. She turned the handle and stepped inside. Closing the door, she held her breath for a moment. Good. Abigail wasn’t going to pursue the matter. At least not anymore today.
Hannah bustled over. “I should’ve unlocked the back door. I didn’t give it a thought. I’m glad you came to the front. Your face is as red as a beet, and it’s not hot outside. What did she say to you?”
“She told me to stay away from Joel. The girl brought out the worst in me. I could hardly control my temper.”
“Uh-oh. How did you respond?”
“Don’t worry, I didn’t let the conversation escalate, but I told her Joel could make up his own mind.”
“I’m shocked she let you get away with such an answer without insisting again you stay away from him.”
Ellie sucked in her top lip. “I didn’t wait for her response.”
Hannah shook her head. “She is unbelievable.”
“Abigail’s brashness reminds me of the old me.” She sighed at the irony.
“You and Abigail are opposites. You’re kind and loving. You’d never obsess over a man or threaten another woman. Raised Amish, Abigail has no excuse for her callous behavior.”
Ellie sighed. She’d listen to her friend’s advice. She’d set her sights on Joel, and she’d concentrate on her life, family, and friends. “I’ve got about two hours before we open, so I’ll help you bake until it’s time to take care of customers.”
Hannah folded her hands. “I’ve put the ingredients together for molasses cookies. Maybe you can pull what you need off the shelves for peach tarts.”
Ellie baked cookies and tarts with Hannah until time to open. She changed her apron, turned the window sign, and went to the counter to wait on customers.
At the end of the day, she poked her head in the back room. “It’s five, and I’ve locked the door.”
“I’ve baked ahead molasses and butter cookies and three sugar cream pies. I’m ready to go.”
Ellie wondered if she’d run into Joel before the next Sunday service. She wished she could crawl into his head and find out if she was on his mind as often as he was on hers, or was his mamm chirping in his ear?
* * *
Joel hit a rut in the road on his way back from helping the bishop repair his porch steps Wednesday morning, and he struggled to guide the wagon. He got out and studied the damage.
A young man he recognized from Sunday services pulled his wagon behind his and got out.
Joel couldn’t remember his name. “Greetings, I’m Joel Wenger. I believe we met at the Sunday service.”
“I’m Timothy Barkman. We were introduced at one of the Sunday services. We got interrupted before we had a chance to talk.” He bent to check the wheel. “Do you have a spare wheel at home?”
“Jah, nice to meet you again, and I do have a spare wheel. I can walk home and get it. I live close.”
“Climb in my wagon. I’ll take you and bring you back. The repair will be easier if the two of us fix it. We’ll take your horse with us.”
“I appreciate the help.” Joel and Timothy tied the mare to the back of Timothy’s wagon. He got better acquainted with his new friend on the short trip to his haus.
Timothy halted in front of Joel’s barn. “You’ve done good work with your property. It looks nice. Where are you from?”
“Lancaster, Pennsylvania. It’s a larger town than Charm. I prefer a smaller town. Did you grow up in Charm?” Joel faced Timothy.
“I’ve been in Charm all my life. I love it. The people are kind, the town i
s big enough to have everything we need, and the scenery is beautiful, including the women.” He scanned the area. “A perfect place to raise a family someday. Although, I’m not in a hurry for marriage. I make it a point to talk to all the available pretty girls.” Timothy jumped down. “Do you fish or target shoot? We have a big pond where I’ve caught some good-sized fish. To target shoot, I put up empty tin cans on tree stumps or whatever I can find in the woods to prop them up.”
“I do both.” Joel was glad he’d met Timothy. He had an impish way about him, red hair and freckles, and a cheerful attitude. The young men he’d met had been friendly, but he hadn’t had the time to cultivate a friendship.
“Why don’t you kumme to my place tomorrow evening?” Timothy said. “My family has a lot of land. We’ve got plenty of room to shoot and not bother anyone. Our haus is the second one on the left on Brown Road if you go straight from here.” He pointed in the direction of his family’s farm.
He’d wanted to make friends, but he’d not had time to socialize, what with getting the property in shape. He and Daed had almost accomplished the task. They were ready to work into a regular routine maintaining it and caring for the animals. He could spare time to meet new friends. Timothy’s offer had kumme at the right time. “Danki. I’ll take you up on your offer.”
Daed met them. “Joel, where’s the wagon?” He nodded to Timothy. “Excuse my manners. I’m Joel’s daed, Shem Wenger.”
Timothy nodded. “I’m Timothy Barkman. Joel needed a new wheel, and I offered to help.”
Joel crossed his arms. “I’m thankful Timothy came along. We had a chance to talk on the way over here. He’s invited me to go target shooting tomorrow.”
“You’ve been working hard. I’m glad you’re taking some time for yourself.” Daed patted his back. “I’ll get the wheel. You boys help yourselves to a cold drink from the pump.”
Joel and Timothy each got a drink of water and then stepped in the wagon, and Daed returned with the wheel and placed it in the back for them.
“Good to meet you, Timothy. Stop by anytime.”
“Danki, sir.” Timothy snapped the reins. “It was a pleasure to meet your daed. Do you have siblings?”
