by Molly Jebber
“No one could. God’s will for my life is to live here. Most of the Amish will wilkom me, and a few gossips will prattle on about me like they did Ellie. It won’t be easy, but those are the consequences of my past actions. I’ll be fine.” Maryann gave her mamm a reassuring smile.
“What time is good for you to go with me Monday?”
“Eight in the morning?” Maryann raised her brow.
“Eight is fine with me. When Ellie returned to Charm, she had to meet with the bishop about her leaving, and you can ask her questions tonight at supper. Maybe she can put your mind at ease.”
Mamm finished peeling potatoes. “Where will you and Ellie live? I’m hoping you will build close to us.”
“Ellie’s parents have lots of acreage. They’ve offered us land to build there. We can have a garden and corn and hayfields. There’s enough room for a big barn. I plan to have the haus finished by the time our wedding date rolls around.” He was excited to ask men to help him construct the home he and Ellie would spend their future in.
Daed entered. “I’ll be glad to help build it. I’m proud of you. How long do we have?”
“February fourth is the date, as long as the bishop has it open on his calendar.” Joel stretched his arms above his head.
“We’ll have plenty of time. I’m sure Jacob and our friends will join us.” Daed opened a drawer and pulled out a piece of paper and pencil. He drew an outline. “Let’s get started.”
Joel’s heart soared. He’d envisioned having a fraa, kinner, and a haus one day. Sitting here with his family, he loved having their input and approval of his decisions. Ellie was right. Having their families’ support was important. Their lives would be richer in love and happiness because of their families’ approval and joy about their impending marriage.
The time passed quickly.
Knock. Knock.
“Ellie must be here. It’s six thirty!” Joel ran to the door. “Kumme in. Daed and I drew out a basic haus plan on paper. I’ll show it to you.” He took her to the kitchen.
“Congratulations on setting a date!” Naomi clapped her hands.
“Anything you need, we are here for you, Ellie.” Maryann squeezed her hand.
Daed held up the paper. “You can change what you don’t like.”
She scanned the paper. “I love the layout.” She looked at them. “I won’t be shy. I’ll enlist you all for things to do. We’ll have fun.”
Naomi cooked the rest of the supper and served them. They chatted about the wedding plans, finished eating, and did the dishes.
Joel pulled Ellie aside. “Maryann is going with me to the bishop’s haus Monday. Would you mind sharing with her your experience when you first spoke with him after your return to Charm the second time?”
“I’d planned to prepare her. The bishop’s a kind man but firm. And I respect him for how he handled my situation.”
He nodded to Maryann. “Why don’t you kumme with Ellie and me to the sitting room?”
She padded in and sat next to Ellie. “Is anything wrong?”
“Nah. Joel asked me to share my experience with the bishop after kumming back to Charm, to prepare you for your meeting.”
Maryann frowned. “I don’t want to dredge up any unpleasant memories. Are you all right discussing this with me?”
“I want to. The bishop asked me if I had asked God for forgiveness and if I was truly ready to follow God in my life. I assured him I was committed to God and the Amish life. He required me to ask forgiveness of the church, and I did so following the service one Sunday. Most of the members were kind and gracious. There were a few who avoided me and, later, they gossiped about me. No one’s perfect. There will always be some gossips.”
“Did you go to his haus for a period of time for instruction?”
“I did, and I enjoyed our meetings. We prayed, and he referenced Bible verses I wrote down to memorize. Some of which I already knew. He was supportive and encouraging. I really like him. You will too.”
She pressed a hand to her middle. “I’m relieved. You make the meeting sound much easier than I expected.”
“Good. I will warn you, the murmurings of the gossips may get to you. Ignore them. The majority of our community will be kind and thoughtful. Little Betsy will be hard for them to resist.”
Joel settled on the high-backed chair. “There’s no skirting around Maryann’s marriage to an Englischer who was a troublemaker. I’m sure word will get around about him at some time or other. Many of the townsfolk go to Massillon to get supplies not offered here. They’re bound to run into someone at some point who will mention him.”
“I doubt it, but if the subject kummes up, then you can worry about addressing it. I would recommend you tell the bishop everything about your husband.”
“I will.” She sighed. “I hope his bad behavior doesn’t follow me here by way of gossip or trouble.”
“You’re safer here than in Massillon. I doubt anyone would search for you in Charm. You and Betsy have a new beginning and family to support you.” Joel loved reestablishing his close relationship with Maryann. She hadn’t changed her personality. She was the same compassionate schweschder he remembered.
They visited for another hour, and he walked Ellie to her wagon. “Travel safe, sweetheart. We don’t have a service tomorrow. I’ll stop over.” He kissed her soft lips and watched her go down the lane. After February fourth, they wouldn’t have to part. He heaved a happy sigh.
* * *
Joel fed the animals and cut firewood and stacked it. He dressed for his early Monday meeting with the bishop. He’d enjoyed his time with Ellie this past weekend. He teased her about him standing in front of the congregation the next time they had a church service and announcing she’d agreed to marry him. At first, she had thought he was serious. They’d both laughed. He loved her laugh. He kept falling deeper in love with Ellie with each passing day. He went inside the haus and found Maryann in the kitchen. “Maryann, are you ready to go? It will take us about ten minutes to get there.”
She strode to him. “Ready.”
“Don’t be nervous. Everything will be fine.” Joel crossed the yard with her to the wagon. “The bishop’s a gentle soul.”
“Ellie said he’s firm, and I would expect him to not go too easy on me. He’s protecting the Amish community from outsiders. I understand.” Maryann shivered.
He’d take her mind off the visit and give her reasons to look forward to her life in this quaint little town. Along the way, Joel pointed out farms and who owned them. “I love this town. It’s got what we need without being overcrowded with families. Some communities don’t have enough land for newcomers to build and plant. I’m glad we don’t have the same problem here.” He halted the horse at the bishop’s hitching post.
The bishop stood at the water pump filling a pitcher. “Good morning.”
Joel gestured to Maryann. “This is my schweschder. She’d like a word with you.”
“Wilkom and kumme inside and get warm by the fire.” The bishop opened the door.
They went inside.
Maryann sat on the settee. “I hope we haven’t caught you at a bad time.”
He waved in the air. “Not at all. I’m pleased to meet you.”
Joel took off his hat and traced the brim. “Maryann left the Amish life, married an Englischer, and has returned to live the Amish life in Charm with us.” He’d ask the bishop about his calendar at the end of their visit, to end on a happy note.
The bishop set the pitcher on a small table. “May I offer you coffee or tea? I’ve got both on the stove.”
“Nah. Danki.” Joel didn’t know who was more nervous, him or Maryann.
She shook her head. “I’m fine.” She cleared her throat. “I’ve asked God to forgive me, and I’m ready to ask the church members to forgive me. I understand you may require me to attend instructional meetings with you until you’re comfortable with my joining the church.”
“You’re correct. I
would ask you to address the folks after our next Sunday service and tell them a little about yourself and ask them for forgiveness. You can tell them what you’d like about your time away.” He leaned forward in the chair. “Tell me about your life in the outside world. Where is your husband?”
“My husband gambled and owed money to bad men. One man he owed shot and killed him. The sheriff arrested the man.” She recounted the story of what happened during the marriage. She stared at her trembling hands. “I want a fresh start. My parents are happy to have Betsy and I live with them. I’d like to grow roots in Charm.”
“Are the other men he owed money to aware you’ve moved to Charm?” The bishop rested his elbows on his knees and folded his hands.
Joel held up a hand. “Her place was ransacked in Massillon, but she has no idea who is responsible, and neither does the sheriff. Her friends won’t offer any information about her whereabouts. Only a couple of people know, and we left town before sunrise. Nobody followed us.”
“And you assure me you have no knowledge of the money they seek?” The bishop narrowed his eyes.
Maryann met his gaze. “I do not.”
“Part of my job is to protect our community from trouble. It appears we don’t need to worry about anyone following you here. This is a relief.”
“I can’t promise someone won’t search for me, but I don’t foresee them thinking of me living in an Amish community.”
Joel stared at the bishop. He was hard to read. His mouth was in a grim line.
“I’m going to accept your word you had nothing to do with your husband’s bad decisions. Let me get my calendar. We’ll set up some times for instruction.” He got up and lifted his calendar off the small desk in the corner. “We’ll schedule weekly meetings.”
“Do you mind if they’re in the mornings?” Maryann held her elbows to her sides and fidgeted her hands.
“Wednesdays at eight a.m.?”
“I’ll be here.” Maryann rubbed her hands together.
“I’m pleased you’ve returned, and I look forward to wilkoming Betsy. Let’s pray, and I’ll let you get on your way.”
Joel held up his forefinger. “Bishop, I proposed to Ellie, and she agreed to marry me. Our families are also pleased and gave us their blessing. I need to schedule a wedding with you on February fourth.”
The bishop slapped his leg. “What wonderful news.” He flipped the pages to February. I’ll pencil you and Ellie in. We should write in your premarital counseling dates. Thursdays at six in the evening?”
“Perfect.” Joel held his hat. They had confirmed a very important date in his life. One he’d remember for years to kumme. “Danki.”
“The pleasure is all mine. Tell your families congratulations.” He turned to Maryann. “I’m glad you’re here.”
“You’ve been kind, Bishop. This can’t be easy for you.” Maryann blushed.
“I’m thrilled to have our people return, as long as they’re serious about their decision to follow God and the Amish life. I believe you’re being truthful with me, and we’re off to a good start. Let’s bow our heads for prayer before you leave. Dear Heavenly Father, danki for returning Maryann to her family. Strengthen her and help her to raise little Betsy to follow you in faith and commitment to the Amish life as she grows. Danki for Joel and Ellie’s commitment to you and their impending marriage on February fourth. Guide and direct their paths as they plan for this significant day in their lives. We love you, Father. Amen.”
The bishop walked them to their wagon and bid them farewell.
Joel held the reins and glanced at Maryann. “How are you?”
“I’m comfortable and happy. The bishop treated me with respect and kindness. He’s a good man. I’m glad this meeting is over. I worried about it all night. Ellie put my mind at rest somewhat, but I wasn’t sure how the man would take my husband’s dealings with bad men.”
“He is a fair and just leader. He cares about us, and he wants the best for us.”
“You’re right, and it’s evident. I respect how he conducted our conversation. I’m looking forward to my visits with him.”
“Good! Now you can help Ellie and me get ready for our big day!”
“I love her, Joel. She’s the best schweschder-in-law I could ever hope for. We get closer each time we’re together. She’s stronger than most Amish women. I like this trait in her.”
“I do too. She’ll be a partner I can ask for advice, count on for solving problems together, and not wonder if she’s holding anything back from me. She speaks her mind.” He didn’t have to tiptoe around a problem with her. She could handle most anything. They’d face whatever life threw them, together, with God’s help. “Would you ever marry again? You’re young and pretty, and Betsy would benefit from having a daed when you’re ready.”
“She’ll have you and Daed.”
“Jah, but it’s not the same.” Joel hoped Maryann would find happiness like he shared with Ellie. A man who would cherish her and Betsy.
“Most Amish men would probably not consider a woman who has a past like mine. They would also choose to have their own kinner and not have to raise another man’s child. I’m not hopeful, but I’m content to remain a widow.”
“God may have other things in mind for you.”
“I’m not opposed, but I’m not expecting a line of suitors out our door.” She chuckled.
“Between our family and Ellie’s, you’ll want for nothing and be very happy. We’ll all see to it.”
“I have no doubt.” Maryann beamed in the sunshine. “It’s cold. If we didn’t have the heat from the sun, we’d freeze.” She pulled her heavy wool shawl tighter around her.
Joel pulled in front of their barn. “I’ll secure the horse. Mamm will be on pins and needles waiting to find out what the bishop told us. You go on in.”
She kissed his cheek. “I love you, Bruder. Danki for going with me.”
“My pleasure. I love you too.” Joel watched her cross the lawn into the haus.
To have Maryann home had been an answer to prayer. He looked forward to creating precious memories with her. A gift he’d longed for but wasn’t sure would happen. God had been so good to them. He didn’t want anything to spoil it.
Chapter Fifteen
Ellie grinned and hugged herself. Her wedding day with Joel would become a reality. She hoped the bishop had the date free.
A short, stout man with bushy eyebrows and a thick mustache shuffled his feet and used his cane to get to the counter. His black overcoat was too big. Gray hair touched the brim of his collar under his hat. He had sad eyes and slouched.
“Do you have something special in mind?”
“Nope. My wife used to make me sugar milk pies before she passed. Today would’ve been our fortieth anniversary.” He bent to shop the display. “You got any sugar milk pies?”
“Let me check in the kitchen for you.” She took a pie off the shelf in the back. “Hannah, I’m taking this one.”
“Help yourself.”
Ellie returned to the patron. “I have one right here for you. Anything else?”
“Nope.” He dragged coins out of his pocket and paid for his purchase. “Thanks.”
She slid cookies off a plate, wrapped them, and smiled. “A gift from us to you.”
He stood a little straighter, and his mouth curled in a grin. “Thank you, young lady. You’re very kind.”
The sad little man gave her a weak grin before he left the bakery. She waved to him, and hoped his day got better. She hoped she and Joel would be married more than forty years.
Joel walked in with a big grin on his face. “February fourth is reserved for us!”
“Hooray!” She clapped her hands together. “Let the planning begin.” She leaned against the wall. “How did the meeting go between the bishop and Maryann?”
“I’m pleased with what transpired between them. He listened and wilkomed her back. He scheduled instructional meetings for her to make sure she underst
ands what is expected and to convince him she’s sincere and ready to commit to the Amish life. She liked him, and she handled herself well.”
“I’m relieved. She’s been through enough. It’s time she enjoyed life here. We’ll all help her adjust.”
“We have premarital counseling with the bishop. Thursdays at six after work.”
“Perfect. What will he ask us?” Ellie raised her eyebrows and shoulders.
“Do we communicate well with each other? Are there any problem areas we foresee at this point? To pray about all matters.” Joel took off his hat. “How many kinner do you want?”
“Two or three?”
“I’d like a hausful. How about five or six?”
She held her stomach and bent over. “Are you serious? I couldn’t keep up with so many little ones. After our first two, we’ll talk about more. Agreed?”
He slapped his hat against his leg. “All right. I can compromise.”
“Wait until they cry through the night. You may not want two.”
“Betsy’s a good boppli. She sleeps through the night.”
Ellie chuckled. “Maryann’s blessed. Not all kinner are as calm as Betsy.”
Liza and Hannah popped their heads around the open doorway. They waved to Joel.
“Is February fourth our date?” Liza swiped a patch of flour on her apron.
“Jah, it is.” Joel set his hat on his head and tapped it on top.
Hannah held a plate of cinnamon rolls. “Thanksgiving and Christmas and a wedding! We’ll be busier than bees making honey. How fun.” The door opened, and she widened her eyes. “Timothy, what brings you in?”
Ellie didn’t miss the surprise in her friend’s voice or her almost dropping the plate of cinnamon rolls. Hannah was having a hard time hiding her attraction to Timothy. She sucked in her lips to avoid the chuckle wanting to escape.
“I came to invite you, Ellie, and Joel to my home for a game night tomorrow. Mamm will have sandwiches prepared for us, and we’ll sit by the fire in the sitting room and play games. My parents are going to supper at the Yoders’.” He slapped Joel on the shoulder. “Good to run into you.”
