Yes. She needed it to go well—so that she would feel like she could stand on her own two feet. For once.
The front door opened, and Lydia Ann peeked her head inside. “Hello,” she called. Her face broke into a wide grin when she saw Caroline. “I had a feeling you’d be ready to go extra early this morning.”
Caroline chuckled. “I didn’t sleep much last night.” She held up her mug of steaming coffee. “So I finally decided to just get up.”
Lydia Ann put her bag in a drawer beneath the counter. “Leah is going to bring Mary and Katie over later. I figured we might have our hands full this morning.”
“I keep telling myself that we’re ready, but I still feel nervous.”
Lydia Ann poured herself a cup of coffee and sat down across from Caroline. “Don’t be nervous. I think this is going to be a wonderful-gut day.”
Caroline couldn’t help smiling. “I hope so.” She fell silent. “I’m a little worried—worried that someone might recognize me.” She was glad she’d been able to share her identity with Lydia Ann while they were at Gettysburg. Now that Michael and Lydia Ann both knew the truth, Caroline no longer felt like she was deceiving them.
“I don’t think you should worry about that,” Lydia Ann said. She took a sip of her coffee. “You’ve been here for weeks and no one has figured it out.”
Caroline smiled. “Lydia Ann, I can’t thank you enough. You’ve been such a big help to me here.” She motioned around the spotless store. “And you’re such a good friend to me.” She shook her head. “It’s been so long since I had a real friend, I’d almost forgotten what it felt like.”
Lydia Ann returned her smile. “I’m glad I could help.”
Caroline glanced at her watch. “It’s about that time,” she said, standing. “Let’s just hope we actually have some customers.”
An hour later, Caroline leaned against the stool behind the counter. The store was full of smiling, laughing people milling around. They’d sold a few books and a lot of coffee.
Lydia Ann grinned at her from across the room, where she was showing Leah around. The Amish woman was definitely in her element today, the way she’d been talking with customers and ringing up sales.
“If you’re through daydreaming, maybe I could get a few pictures,” Michael said.
Caroline jerked her head up and stared into Michael’s green eyes. “I didn’t see you come in.”
He chuckled. “When I walked in, you looked like you were a million miles away.”
“I was just looking around the store and realizing how blessed I am.” Caroline grinned at him. “I have good friends, a store that makes people happy, and the world’s best puppy. What more could a girl ask for?” And to think that just a few weeks ago, she’d been afraid that she’d never feel happy again.
“You never know what God has in store for you,” Michael said. He held up his camera. “Now, how about some pictures?”
“Just don’t put me in them.”
He narrowed his eyes. “Come on. At least let me get one of you out front with the new sign.”
She bit her lip. “Only if you promise it will never get printed.”
“Fair enough.”
She followed him outside and posed for a couple of pictures. Her smile was a little broader than normal. And she knew it had something to do with the man on the other side of the lens.
Lydia Ann and Leah looked out the back window of the store and watched Mary and Katie chase Bandit around the yard.
“They sure love that puppy, don’t they?” remarked Leah.
Lydia Ann chuckled. “Jah. I’m afraid we might have to get one when we get back to Charm.”
Leah turned to her, her brow furrowed. “I’ve been meaning to talk to you about that.” She sighed. “Have you given any thought to staying here?”
“The girls return to school in a few weeks. I guess we could stay until closer to their start date,” Lydia Ann said.
Leah shook her head. “That’s not what I meant. I’d like for you to consider staying in Lancaster County.” She fixed her brown eyes on Lydia Ann. “For good.”
Lydia Ann stared at her, openmouthed. Stay here? “Oh, I couldn’t.”
Leah patted her on the arm. “Just think about it. There is a lot here for you. Jeremiah would love it. I would love it. The rest of our family would love it. And you seem to be enjoying your job here.” She smiled. “Just something for you to consider.”
Stunned, Lydia Ann walked Leah to the door. Staying in Lancaster County hadn’t crossed her mind. Once Leah was gone, Lydia Ann busied herself with customers. She gave the coffee area a good cleaning as soon as there was a lull.
“Afternoon,” a voice said from behind her. She turned to see Simon, a grin on his face.
“I just left Jeremiah’s store and thought I’d stop by here on my way back to the farm. I had to pick up a few things for Mamm and Mrs. Landis. I guess they’ve decided to throw a big celebration dinner tonight.”
She smiled. “That’s nice. Caroline will like that.”
“It’s for you too. I’ve already invited Jeremiah. He said he’d pass the word along to Leah.” He grinned. “I’ll be there also.”
“It sounds like a nice evening.” She couldn’t help but feel excited about the prospect of spending more time around Simon. He had proven himself to be such a kind man. He was a good friend and a good son, and his faith in the Lord was strong.
Simon chuckled. “And Katie and Mary can help me feed the calves before dinner. I know they’ll love that.”
She nodded. “Jah, they will.” Lydia Ann gestured toward the overflowing trash can. “Things have gone very well today. We’ve had a lot of customers.”
“I know. I spoke to Caroline out front. Michael just left to go back to his office.” He smiled. “I’d better go. I’ll see you tonight.”
Lydia Ann watched him leave and thought of Leah’s request that she consider staying in Lancaster County. She couldn’t help but wonder what Simon would think about it.
Chapter Twenty-Seven
Michael watched as Caroline got out of her vehicle. “One of our guests of honor has arrived,” he said, smiling.
She shook her head. “I can’t believe your parents did this. They’re so sweet.”
He walked over to where she stood. “Well, they’re proud of you, that’s all. And so am I.”
Caroline’s face lit up with a smile. “Thanks. That means a lot.”
“I think Simon is finishing up in the barn. Lydia Ann’s daughters are helping him.” He chuckled. “My mom took one look at them and declared that she’s officially ready to be a grandmother.”
Caroline laughed. “And what did you say?”
“I told her that Phillip is the oldest.”
She nodded. “Is he dating anyone?”
“There was a girl he used to be crazy about. But she moved to Philly about a year ago for a better job. They dated all through college, though.”
“So Phillip went away to school?”
“Not as far away as I did. But yes. He has a business degree.” Before Michael could say more, Lydia Ann came out of the barn, followed by Katie and Mary.
“We’d better get inside before anyone gets any dirtier,” Lydia Ann said, laughing.
“Miss Caroline,” Katie said, tugging on Caroline’s sleeve. “We named the baby cows. Mine is called Spot and Mary’s is Blackie.” She giggled. “Aren’t those wonderful-gut names?”
Caroline smiled down at the child. “They sure are.” She turned to Michael. “I’m going to go in and see if your mom needs any help.” She followed Lydia Ann and the twins into the farmhouse.
Michael stepped into the barn. “Do you need any help?” he asked.
Simon looked up from where he was washing out the large bottles. “No. I’m just finishing up here.” He grimaced. “But can I talk to you about somethin’?”
“Of course.” Michael sat down on an overturned bucket.
“I’d like to k
eep this just between us for now.”
“You have my word.”
Simon sighed. “I’ve been having some odd pains. First in my leg and now in my arm.” He rubbed his jaw. “At first I tried to ignore them, but I wonder if it’s time to get things checked out.”
Michael regarded his friend seriously. “It’s probably nothing. But maybe it would be best to go see a doctor.”
Simon nodded. “I figured that’s what you’d say.” He grinned. “I guess I’ll make an appointment for next week.”
“If you want to catch a ride with me, just let me know.”
“I appreciate it.”
“Anytime,” Michael said. He motioned toward the house. “Now let’s get inside. I think there’s quite a meal waiting for us.”
Once everyone was gathered around the table, Dad stood from his spot at the head of the table. “We’re so glad you could all join us for dinner tonight,” he said. “I understand that Caroline and Lydia Ann have done a wonderful job in fixing up the bookstore and getting it ready for today’s grand reopening.”
Michael glanced at Caroline, who was seated next to him.
She smiled, her pretty face flushed from the attention.
He leaned over. “I told you my parents were proud,” he whispered.
“Lydia Ann says you’re originally from Georgia,” Jeremiah Bellar said to Caroline.
She nodded. “Yes, sir. I grew up in Hiram. It’s a very small town northwest of Atlanta.”
Michael knew that the last thing Caroline wanted to do was talk about her past. “Mrs. Zook, this chicken pot pie is amazing.”
The older Amish woman smiled modestly. “Danki. The recipe has been in my family for years.”
Caroline rewarded him with a grateful grin.
The buzz of conversation around the table was a far cry from the lonely meals Caroline had gotten used to over the past couple of years. She’d forgotten how it felt to belong. As she looked around the table, she felt real connections. These people had come together to celebrate her bookstore. Their kindness was like a warm blanket on a cold day.
“I’m planning to come by the store tomorrow,” Mrs. Landis said. “Will there be anything special going on?”
Caroline nodded. “Tomorrow afternoon we’ll have children’s story time. It’s the first one, so I’m a little nervous.”
“Michael tells me you worked as a kindergarten teacher,” Mrs. Landis said. “I’m sure you’ll do well.”
Caroline grinned. “I’m really looking forward to it.”
Mrs. Zook came out of the kitchen with a large platter. She set a beautiful shoofly pie in front of Caroline. “I hear this is one of your favorites,” she said, smiling.
Caroline nodded. “I’d never tasted anything like it before visiting here. I’m going to have to add shoofly pie to my recipe book, that’s for sure.” The closest thing Caroline could compare it to was pecan pie, but the heavy molasses gave shoofly pie a very unique taste.
“I can’t thank you enough for this special dinner,” Caroline told Mrs. Landis once everyone had finished eating and they were clearing the table.
Mrs. Landis smiled. “We believe in celebrating when those we care about have good things happen.” She took a stack of plates from Caroline’s hand. “Now you get out of the kitchen. I suspect Michael is looking for you anyway.” She flashed a knowing grin.
Caroline walked outside in time to tell the Zooks and Bellars good-bye. “See you tomorrow,” she called to Lydia Ann.
Michael turned to her once they were gone. “Are you up for a walk tonight?” he asked.
She smiled. “Maybe a short one.” She did need to walk off the heavy meal. Besides, she wanted to tell Michael about her upcoming travel plans.
“How about we drop your car off at your place first?” he asked.
“Sounds good. Let me just run inside and tell your parents good-bye.”
Fifteen minutes later, she parked her car at the bookstore and climbed into Michael’s waiting SUV. “What do you have in mind?” she asked.
He grinned. “We’ve visited a covered bridge from the outside, but we’ve never walked through one. And it’s only about ten minutes away.” He reached over and patted her on the leg. “If you need to take a quick nap, I’ll understand.”
She couldn’t hide her laughter. “Stop it. I don’t always fall asleep in the car. I promise.”
“You could’ve fooled me.”
“Besides,” she said seriously, “I needed to tell you something anyway.”
He reached out and turned down the radio volume. “What’s that?”
“I’m leaving on Thursday for Atlanta,” she explained. “I made my reservation before I came over to the farm.” She sighed. “I talked to Lydia Ann about it today. She’s fine with running the store for a couple of days without me. She told me tonight that Leah would be happy to pitch in if she needed extra help.”
“Which airport are you flying out of?” he asked.
“Harrisburg. It’s a little closer than Philadelphia—plus I was able to get a flight out after work on Thursday.”
“I hope you’ll let me take you to the airport,” he said.
She furrowed her brow. “I don’t want you to have to go to any trouble.”
“Don’t be silly. It’s no trouble.” He grinned. “Besides, I like to feel useful.”
“Well, I’d love for you to take me. I get back on Sunday night.”
“I’ll clear my schedule.” Michael chuckled. A few minutes later, he pulled into a parking space and turned off the engine. He reached over and took her hand. “I hope everything goes well in Atlanta,” he said softly.
She hoped so too. Ever since she’d booked her ticket, she’d tried to keep from worrying about what might be waiting for her back home. “Let’s not think about it tonight.”
Michael squeezed her hand. “Sounds like a plan to me.” He jerked his chin toward the covered bridge in the distance. “You ready to go for a walk?”
She nodded. “Sure.”
They climbed out of the vehicle.
“Cool park,” Caroline commented, pointing at the park adjacent to the parking lot. “That would be a great place to picnic too.”
“Maybe we’ll have to do that sometime,” Michael said with a grin. He grabbed her hand. “Come on before it gets too dark to see anything.” Hand in hand, they walked toward the bridge. The setting sun seemed to make the red bridge almost glow.
“This one doesn’t allow vehicle traffic,” Michael explained, pointing at the pedestrian-only sign.
They walked into the bridge. The sun’s fading rays kept them from walking into total darkness.
“You know, legend has it that James Buchanan met his fiancé at this bridge,” Michael said. “But she died before they could be married.”
“That’s so sad.”
Michael stopped walking midway through the bridge. “It is. He never married and went on to become our only bachelor president.”
She grinned. “Is that a little historical tidbit you’re using in one of your articles?”
He chuckled. “You caught me. You want to know another one?”
“Absolutely.” She couldn’t hide her smile.
“The covered bridges here are also known as ‘kissing bridges’ because they’ve provided seclusion for so many sweethearts over the years.” He winked.
“Kissing bridges, huh?”
He pulled her to him. “Yes,” he whispered. “Kissing bridges.” He tipped her chin upward.
A delicious shiver ran up Caroline’s spine. She’d wanted this moment to happen for so long.
Michael bent down and covered her lips with his.
Caroline sank into the kiss and let herself get lost in his warmth. As the kiss intensified, she was struck by the feelings behind it.
He pulled away, an almost drunken smile on his face. “Well, that was something.”
“Indeed.” She grinned. She could count on one hand the number of men she
’d kissed. Lance had kissed with a lot of experience but not a lot of passion. Back in college, Jordan Evans had kissed her every chance he’d found during the months they were together. His kisses had neither experience nor passion. And she didn’t even want to think about her first kiss on the night of her junior prom. It had been an awkward mashup of braces and nerves that had turned her off kissing for years.
But kissing Michael felt right. Felt real. Made her weak in the knees and caused her heart to race like she’d just run a sprint.
He pulled her to him and held her tightly. “I hope you know how much I care about you,” he whispered. “I’ve been wanting to do that pretty much since we met.” He let her go and locked eyes with her. “But I wanted to wait until I was sure you were ready.”
She smiled. “I care about you too. And I’m glad that we built a friendship first. It makes this even better.”
“I’ll say,” he said, taking her hand. “And now you’re leaving.”
“Just for a long weekend,” she said as they strolled slowly back toward the entrance of the bridge. “And then I’ll be back.”
“I’m already counting the minutes.” He stopped and pulled her into another kiss.
Chapter Twenty-Eight
Simon sat anxiously in the waiting room, flipping through a magazine. Doctors always made him a little nervous. He glanced at the clock on the wall. Hopefully he’d be done and waiting outside by the time Michael came back.
“Mr. Zook?” the nurse said. “The doctor will see you now.”
He rose from his seat and tossed the National Geographic onto the table. He followed the woman to a little exam room.
She took his blood pressure and temperature and recorded them on a chart. “Dr. Meadows will be right with you,” she said, before shutting the door behind her.
Simon sat stiffly on the exam table and thought briefly of Lydia Ann. He enjoyed spending time with her so much. He’d thought about telling her about his appointment, but she’d dealt with enough burdens of her own. No need to heap more upon her.
Love Finds You in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania Page 14
