Anna's Trials (Living Plain Book 1)

by June Belfie

  She sighed as she looked over at her brother. “How was it coming over here? Did you walk over or come by buggy?”

  “I walked. Thought it would be safer in the long run. Do you need more milk? I know your cow hasn’t been producing much lately.”

  “Maybe next time you stop by. I have enough for now. Please thank Lottie for thinking of us. I don’t know what I’d do without my family.”

  “It’s okay, Anna. You’d do the same for us.”

  “Jah, I would. How’s Lottie feeling?”

  “Gut. Getting big. Might be twins this time.”

  “That would be fun.”

  “Jah. Well, I’d better get back before she starts worrying about me. I’ll come by tomorrow, God willing.”

  “Denki.” She went over and put her arms around her brother. “You are a gut bruder. The best.”

  He patted her on her back as they embraced. “We’ll find you a gut man, Anna. A real gut Amish man. Don’t you worry.”

  For the first time since her husband’s death, she hoped it might come true. And maybe he’d even love her.

  Chapter Twenty-Four

  Beth walked away from the front window in the schoolhouse after watching the children play during their recess. She collected the test papers from the sixth and seventh grader’s desks, which they had just completed and put them in a folder to grade that evening. Lydia hummed a popular children’s song as she wiped off the blackboard.

  “You seem cheerful today,” Beth said, glancing at her friend.

  “Jah, but I need to talk to you about something. Do you think we have time?”

  Beth glanced at the clock. “Can you get it all out in ten minutes?”

  “I’ll do my best. Let’s sit.”

  They walked to the back of the room and sat on two of the side chairs reserved for visitors. “I had a talk with Josiah last night when I went by to help and he mentioned needing someone full-time now that his business is growing.”

  “Jah, I knew about that.”

  “I thought he meant me. Then he mentioned you might be interested, but I don’t know how you’d do that and teach at the same time.”

  “Obviously, I wouldn’t,” Beth said.

  “So, I wondered if you’d let me take over the teaching and you could go work for him.”

  Beth let out an exaggerated sigh. “I suppose it would work. Tell you the truth, I’m getting bored teaching.”

  “Already? Goodness, I’m surprised to hear that. Maybe you just don’t like kinner,” Lydia suggested, her brows raised.

  “I guess when I have my own, it will be different. I just prefer adult conversation. Did he say who he’d rather have work for him?”

  “He said we should work it out between us because he didn’t want to cause friction.”

  “And you really would prefer teaching?” Beth asked.

  “I would. Truth be told, I dislike the bookkeeping part of the job. It takes me forever to get things to balance. Sometimes I take the books home and stay up till midnight to get the numbers right. It’s much harder than the last job I had.”

  Beth nodded. “We’d have to talk to the school board first, of course.”

  “My onkel is on the board now. I’m sure it can be worked out.”

  “The money isn’t as gut.”

  “That’s not that important to me,” Lydia said. “I’d rather be happy. Besides, I’m kinda getting serious with someone at the sings.”

  “Do I know him?” Beth’s curiosity was roused.

  “Jah, but it’s not for sure yet. Once he commits to things, I’ll let you know. I was afraid Josiah was starting to get too interested in me—as a woman, if you know what I mean.”

  Beth’s stomach dropped. “What made you think that?”

  “I don’t know. Maybe the way he looked at me sometimes or the fact he’d get real close to me when it wasn’t necessary. You know how guys can be.”

  She didn’t, not really. “Sure. They’re so obvious.”

  “I got bored when he started talking about the martyrs and all that history. He liked to talk about serious stuff a lot. I’d rather have fun.”

  “Mmm.” Beth resisted allowing her elation to show. Even though she certainly didn’t love Josiah, it was still nice to feel he was a possible suitor, if down the road she was interested. Besides, she did enjoy their discussions. Too many men her age were totally boring. Maybe that’s why she enjoyed being with Randy. Though when it came down to it, he didn’t have that much to say, either.

  “I’ll ring the bell for the kinner. It’s time to get things moving again. Just think next week we break for Thanksgiving. The time is going so quickly,” Beth said. “Let me know when we can go together before the board. I know Josiah is anxious to hire someone full time. I can’t believe how busy he is already.”

  “I know. He does do nice work,” Lydia said as she rose to sharpen her pencil and prepare for the afternoon classes.

  On the way home, Beth decided to stop at Josiah’s to tell him about their decision. She hoped he wouldn’t be disappointed when he found out she’d be his new employee. When she came into the showroom, she could hear a buzzer go off in the back and within two minutes, Josiah appeared, removing a leather apron and pushing back his loose hair from his brow.

  “Beth, I didn’t expect you today. How are things going?”

  “Gut. Lydia and I had a nice talk. I hope you don’t mind, but I’m going to leave my teaching position and take the job you offered.”

  A grin spread across his face. “Mind? Why would I mind? You know you were my first choice.”

  “I guess I wasn’t sure about that. You seemed to like having Lydia work for you.”

  “Well, I needed someone and she seemed up to the job,” he offered.

  “She really wasn’t that sharp when it came to bookkeeping. She admitted it herself.”

  “Really? I’m surprised to hear that.”

  “Oh, jah, and she was slow at it. She had to take the books home with her sometimes to catch up.”

  “Huh. I never suspected.”

  “And she got bored if you talked too much about interesting things.”

  He couldn’t hold back a hearty laugh. “Goodness, gracious. I don’t know how she stood working here!”

  Beth realized she’d gone way overboard and she clamped her mouth shut, wishing she’d done so earlier.

  “But you like to do bookkeeping, right? And I don’t bore you to tears?”

  She giggled under her breath. “Nee, you don’t, and most men do, so there’s a plus.”

  He folded his arms and stood watching her squirm, enjoying the whole thing.

  “I could use a cup of kaffi. Do you have any made?” she finally asked, hoping to change the subject.

  “It’s old. I made it at ten this morning. I can put on a fresh pot, if you have time to wait.”

  “I don’t want to interrupt you if you’re busy.”

  “I’m always busy, but I came in at five this morning and I think I’ve worked enough for one day. Accidents happen when one gets too tired.”

  “True. Want me to make it?”

  “Sure. Come back with me and I’ll show you where I keep everything.” They went back to the work area and he led her to the small stove where a percolator sat on a back burner, still containing some thick dark liquid, barely resembling coffee.

  She rinsed it thoroughly and told him about her conversation with Lydia and explained they’d have to get things straightened out with the schoolboard before she could officially resign.

  “In the meantime, I can stop on my way home and work on Saturdays,” she said as she opened a cupboard to look for clean mugs. Finding none, she rinsed out the four mugs she found in the sink. They looked like they’d been born there, crusted over with dried coffee remains. “Ach! This will never do,” she said, scowling over at him as he leaned against the counter, hands pulling on his suspenders.

  “Nee? You’ll take over the food handling, too?”<
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  “Maybe for extra pay,” she said, teasing.

  “Oh, a capitalist, I see.”

  “Jah, I like to be paid for my time.”

  “What do you do with all your money, Beth?”

  She narrowed her eyes as she thought. “I don’t have enough to worry about yet, but I plan to travel.”

  “Oh, jah, I forgot. Where was it?”

  “I don’t remember what I told you. Besides, my destination changes daily. I just finished reading a book about Mexico, so maybe I’ll to there first.”

  He laughed. “Bring me back a poncho, if you go.”

  “If you give me the money for it.”

  She lit the gas flame under the pot, which now had fresh water and grinds, and turned to look around at the work area. “You keep a neat work space, anyway.”

  “I have to. It’s too difficult to be disorganized. This way I know where every tool is at any given time. I’m actually on schedule with my commitments so far, though I put out three new proposals over the past week. If they’re accepted, I’ll have to go into overdrive. I hope the school board releases you quickly.”

  “I think they will, as long as they have Lydia. One of the scholars who graduated last year stopped by last week to see if we needed help. We can always call on her if need be.”

  “Gott is gut. I’ve been praying for help and here you are.”

  She felt herself blush as heat spread up her neck. “So I’m an answer to prayer?”

  “Jah, you are, and I was rather specific.”

  They sat down on wooden chairs and he began talking about a new program he’d read about, which would make it simpler to keep inventory. At first it bored her, but his excitement was contagious and soon she was nodding and encouraging him to purchase it. “You’re allowed to use the Internet to buy programs and things for your business, aren’t you?” she asked.

  “Jah. Lots of Amish businesses take advantage of some of the advances available. It can’t conflict with the Ordnung, of course, but after talking to our bishop, we agreed there was no problem.”

  “Would I have to learn to use the computer?” she asked.

  “It would help. Especially with the bookkeeping. I wanted Lydia to learn, but she was real hesitant.”

  “Oh, jah, she would be. I’m not, though. I’d love to learn.”

  “Gut. Do you want to come in Saturday and begin?”

  “I guess that would be okay. By the way, do you want to come for Thanksgiving? That is, if you’re not busy.”

  He nodded quickly. “I’d love to come. I wasn’t looking forward to going back to visit family in Ohio just for two days, but I didn’t want to be alone, either.”

  “Of course not. You can come anytime. People will be in and out all day, but we usually eat around two in the afternoon. Of course, we never really stop eating. Mamm loves to bake and so does Anna, so there will be tons of desserts.”

  “My weakness, I’m afraid. Do you like to cook, Beth?”

  “I’m learning to, but I’m no expert.”

  “Practice. That’s all it takes. Maybe when you marry, you’ll enjoy it more.”

  “I doubt it. Then I’ll have to do it.”

  He looked over and cocked his head. “Jah, I guess that makes a difference, but you can’t starve your family. Now let me check the coffee. I think it’s getting dark enough.”

  “Not yet. Give it another couple minutes.”

  “Okay.” He settled back in his chair and smiled over. “Jah, I think this arrangement is going to work out just fine. You’ll be in charge of kaffi and keeping the sink clean.”

  “Oh, brother. What have I gotten myself into?” she said, as she broke into a laugh.”

  “I’ll provide the half and half.”

  “Huh. Guess that will work. Now show me how to turn on the computer while we’re waiting for the kaffi to brew.”

  It was two hours later when Beth realized she was already late for supper. Hopefully, her parents wouldn’t worry. If they knew where she was, she was sure they’d be delighted, but not knowing could cause distress. “I’d better head home,” she said as she rose and reached for her cape.

  “Goodness, I didn’t realize how late it was. I’m sorry I kept you. I’ll add the hours to your pay.”

  “Don’t be silly. I was enjoying myself. I think I’m going to like it here. Of course, we can’t sit around all day drinking kaffi and yapping.”

  Josiah smiled broadly. “It will be tempting, but it won’t pay the bills. Denki for your time, Beth. Let me know when you can start full-time, but in the meantime I’ll see you Saturday.”

  “What time?”

  “Eight?”

  “I’ll try.”

  “Nine better?”

  “Much.”

  “Then nine it is.” He put his hand out for hers. They shook once as was the custom, but he continued to hold onto her hand until she withdrew it.

  “I really am late.”

  “Oh, jah.” He walked out with her and lit the kerosene lanterns on the buggy. Then he watched as she climbed in and headed for the road.

  All the way home, she pondered her feelings. Just what did she feel for this pleasant man? Okay, he wasn’t making her heart jump the way Randy did, but he certainly was intelligent, kind, and nice enough looking. It made more sense to encourage his interest; after all, he was above all, an Amish man in good repute.

  Besides, she’d decided never to see Randy Gordon again. At least never alone. She couldn’t help it if they ran into each other from time to time, but he’d probably forgotten where she lived, she had no phone, and she had absolutely no plans to go see him. So it was over. Definitely over, though the kiss haunted her. It never should have taken place. It was way too…too exciting? Romantic? What would she call it? Lustful. Jah, that was the right word. Gott, forgive me. I can’t take it back, but I regret it and I know it was wrong. She encouraged Winnie to move faster. The horse broke into a trot and soon the farmhouse was in view. It was already dark, but there was a full moon, which gave her enough light to make her way to the barn. Her father came out the back door of the house, swinging a lantern. He appeared stern as he approached her. “Beth, where have you been? Do you know how late it is?”

  “I’m really sorry, Daed. I stopped by Josiah’s shop and we got to talking and—”

  “I’m afraid that’s no excuse. Your poor mamm is all upset.”

  “Goodness, I’m a big girl now. Why does everyone treat me like I’m a kinner?”

  “As long as you’re in our home, under our care, you’re responsible to keep us informed and not worry us needlessly.”

  A wave of anger swept through her, but she avoided saying what she wanted to say. After all, he was right. She’d be more careful in the future.

  After hearing about her responsibilities to her parents all over again from her mother, she washed up and set the table. They were silent throughout the meal. While they cleaned up the dishes, Beth told her mother she’d invited Josiah for Thanksgiving, hoping that would bring on a smile.

  “At least you’ve come to your senses, Dochder. Josiah would be a gut husband for you. Don’t lose him with that mouth of yours.”

  “He seems to like my mouth,” she said, sarcastically.

  Her mother looked over. “Well, I hope that doesn’t mean what I think it means. Save your kisses for your honeymoon.”

  Another pang of guilt ran through Beth. If her mother only knew.

  She nodded and reached for the last pot, scrubbing it for an extra five minutes to avoid any further conversation.

  Chapter Twenty-Five

  Things seemed to be working out for Beth. The school board accepted her resignation immediately. Lydia was no longer a threat to Beth’s standing with Josiah. He and Beth maintained a proper distance and were professional in their relationship, but after she turned the closed sign each night, they took an extra few minutes to chat together before parting.

  The Wednesday before Thanksgiving, inst
ead of relaxing after the shop was closed, Beth left early to help at home. She reminded Josiah about showing up before two, and when she got home, Anna and the children were just getting ready to leave. The house smelled marvelous. Anna and her mother had spent the day baking pumpkin and apple pies. Cinnamon and nutmeg were two of Beth’s favorite spices and she breathed deeply as she hung her cape on the peg and washed up. “Yummy! It smells real gut in here.”

  Rachel ran over and hugged her aunt as they were leaving, but the three boys merely waved. It was a bit of a relief not to have to deal with her wayward nephews. They were a paramount reason for her leaving the teaching field, however she also preferred the company of adults. Though there was still much to learn at her new job, she enjoyed the challenge. She had already mastered the bookkeeping program, impressing Josiah with her proficiency.

  After Anna left with the children, her mother flopped down on the sofa. “I’m so tired. I’ve been on my feet all day, baking and cleaning. Do you mind cooking tonight, Beth? We’re just having hot dogs.”

  “Sure, I’d be happy to. How do I cook them?”

  “Mercy! Any way you want. You can boil them, fry them, cut them up in baked beans…”

  “Oh. Okay.” She decided boiling them would be the easiest way and the least amount of clean up, so she stuck them in water and placed the pot on the stove.

  “Make a salad, too, Beth. Your daed likes his salads.”

  “Sure. Is lettuce enough?”

  Rose rolled her eyes. “Add sliced tomatoes and onion, bitte.”

  It took only a few minutes to put the food on the table. Unfortunately, the hot dogs were tough from being boiled too long and the rolls had dried out in the hot oven. The salads were fine, though rather sparse.

  “You’re going to have to pay more attention to cooking, Beth. No man wants to eat rock dogs,” her father remarked as he used a steak knife to cut his roll and frankfurter in half.

  “Well, it’s the first time I ever made them. Next time, I’ll do better.”

  “And the baked beans? They’re so dry, I need to wash them down with water,” he continued.