Chapter 9
Rachael rode with Joseph and Mamm to New Philadelphia early Wednesday morning and enjoyed Joseph’s childhood stories. He’d kept her and Mamm entertained, and they had made good time, keeping their stops short and eating the sandwiches Mamm packed for them. She had wilkomed the trip’s distraction, although her mind had drifted off several times to Caleb. Would he visit the bakery? She longed for the sound of his voice, to gaze into those brown eyes, and to plan a future with him. She clutched her fists in her lap. She wouldn’t budge on her decision. Anytime she wavered, she forced herself to remember the many times he’d said he wanted kinner.
The little-over-six-hour drive had gone quickly, and they were in New Philadelphia before she knew it. Shoppers bustled from one store to the next, and peddlers stood on the corners selling food, fruits, and gadgets. She loved the hustle and bustle of the town, which was larger than Charm.
Joseph left the buggy at the livery and escorted them to the boardwalk in the middle of New Philadelphia. “I’m thankful we have sunshine and a warmer day than usual for this time of year.”
Mamm pointed to a shop. “Yes, it makes this trip more fun. I’d love to stop in at the quilt shop.”
“We have time. Go browse. I’ll wait outside.” Joseph held the wrapped package she and Mamm had brought to give to his niece.
Rachael followed Mamm into the quilt shop, carrying their luggage with them. She scanned colorful quilts filling the walls. Some of the patterns had too many colors. She eyed a row of quilts in softer blues, yellows, whites, and greens. They were simple wedding, patchwork, and star patterns she liked to stitch. The shop was the largest one she’d visited. She wished she could tell Caleb about it. Better yet, she wished she could buy a quilt to save to use on their bed after their wedding. No more wedding. No more Caleb. No use for a wedding quilt.
Mamm yanked a bolt of navy fabric from the stack. “Do you like this color and thickness?”
She rubbed the material between her thumb and forefinger. “It’s the right texture for the quilt you’re making.”
Joseph entered and joined them. “The smile on your face tells me this navy fabric has caught your eye. How many yards? I’d like to buy it for you.” He reached for the bolt.
Mamm blushed. “Danki. Three yards should be enough.”
Rachael was sure Caleb would’ve done the same had he found her admiring the fabric. Her trip away from Charm hadn’t taken her thoughts from Caleb. Mamm’s and Joseph’s exchanges of endearments and obvious admiration for each other mirrored the courtship she had shared with Caleb. She had to let go of her reservations and selfish reasons about Joseph courting her mamm. She’d be disheartened if anything happened to separate them now.
Joseph paid for Mamm’s selection, and they headed outside. “Let’s go to the boardinghaus and secure our rooms.” He carried his bag, Adelaide’s gift, and Mamm’s package.
Rachael and Mamm carried their bags.
Rachael nodded. “That’s a grand idea. We can leave our baggage and purchase in the room.”
A peddler stepped in front of Rachael and dangled a necklace inches from her face. “Pretty lady, I have a locket you’ll cherish for a lifetime. The perfect place for your and your beau’s photographs.”
“No. Danki.” Rachael dodged the pushy Englischer.
The railroad train whistle blew. She’d never been on a train. It would’ve been fun to experience it with Caleb. Where would they go? She wouldn’t care where they went if they were together. She shook her head. She had to quit thinking that way. It was useless.
They entered the boardinghaus.
She scanned the entry. Red curtains at the windows were tied back with ornate gold-tasseled rope. The plush rug was gorgeous, with swirls of red, blue, and gold. Soft to stand on. This place was much fancier than she’d anticipated.
A woman in a ruffled white blouse and a long blue skirt greeted them. She wore fancy, cream-colored leather shoes. Rachael didn’t know how she could walk in the chunky high heels. They looked too small for her feet.
“How many rooms would you like?”
Joseph opened his leather satchel to remove his wallet. “Two, please.”
“Breakfast for the three of you is included with your rooms. Both rooms are upstairs and to your right. Here are your keys.” She passed one to Joseph and one to Mamm. “There’s fresh water in pitchers for you to pour into the large bowl provided on a stand opposite your beds. We empty and refill them twice a day. Towels and washcloths are in the drawer of the stand. Each room has a clock on one of the nightstands. The rules of our establishment and our restaurant’s hours of operation are on a paper posted on the door in your room. I ask that you please honor them.”
“Danki, madam.” Joseph gestured to the stairs. “This way, ladies.”
Rachael wondered if the woman had to recite this same speech to each customer. It must get tiring.
“Danki, Joseph, for our room.” Mamm went ahead of her up the stairs.
“I’m glad you both could join me on this trip.” They reached the top of the stairs, and Joseph passed a key to Mamm. “You’re in room five and I’m in room six. Each room has two beds. I always stay here when I visit Adelaide. It’s three thirty. Let’s meet downstairs in the lobby at three forty-five. We’ll find Adelaide and ask her to join us for supper.”
Rachael and Mamm nodded, and Mamm unlocked their door.
Rachael entered and walked around the room. She stroked the beautiful gold satin bedspread. “How pretty.” She hugged the pillow. “It’s fluffy and the pillowcase is smooth.” She buried her nose in it. “They must spray rosewater on them.” She felt a pang of guilt, admiring the room and the things in it.
Mamm washed her face and hands. “We’ve not been on a trip like this. In the candy shop window, they were making taffy. I noticed shelves lined with an assortment of candy. It’s a much larger store than the one we have in Charm. We’ll have to take an assortment of hard candy home with us to share with Toby and Magdelena.”
Rachael was surprised at the detail of the yellow roses etched on the ornate pitcher and the scalloped edges on the matching bowl. The stand had scrolled legs and a glass knob with a rose etched on it. She didn’t understand the need to have such nice things. It all seemed unnecessary for everyday living. She went to the window. The shore deck along the river was busy. Men loaded crates, barrels, and boxes onto a barge. Passengers stood in line to board an impressive stern-wheeler with two levels. A small band played music on the bottom floor. This town had more to offer than Charm. She couldn’t wait to meet Adelaide and to explore New Philadelphia. “I’m ready when you are.”
Mamm opened the door, and they met Joseph waiting for them at the bottom of the stairs in the lobby. The chandelier had rows of crystal teardrops and must’ve been very expensive. The Englischers sure had lavish things compared to their simple life. She would’ve used the money to help the Amish widows and those in need.
Joseph worried his brows. “Are you comfortable walking to the restaurant next door to the saloon? It’s about two blocks, and you can window-shop on the way. I want you to have fun on this trip.”
Rachael and Mamm nodded.
They passed a shoe store, and Mamm paused. “There are rows and rows of all kinds of shoes. Those leather shoes have a gold buckle and two-inch heels. I’d trip if I wore them.” She pointed to another pair of shoes. “There’s the same pair of shoes the hostess had on.”
Rachael imagined her feet in a pair of shoes like the hostess wore, and the thought of it made her feet hurt. She’d never have an occasion to wear such silly shoes, and she was glad Amish women didn’t wear them.
Rachael pointed. “What about the fitted leather boots with all those buttons? They cost a dollar and eighty-six cents. I’ve never seen so many showy shoes and boots.”
Joseph chuckled. “Wait until we pass the dry goods shop. You’ll be amazed at how many fancy towels, blankets, and dry goods they have for sale.”
A peddler stood alongside his wagon. “Grab your Cracker Jack box before they’re all gone. You don’t want to miss the prize inside.”
Joseph stopped, tucked the package he carried under his arm, and paid the peddler fifteen cents for three boxes of Cracker Jack. “I love this caramel popcorn and peanut candy.” He opened a box and pulled out a baseball card. “Eddie Plank. He’s a professional baseball pitcher.”
A young boy stopped. “You’re lucky. I’d like to have Eddie Plank’s card.” He held a small metal baseball.
“Would you like to trade?” Joseph passed the boy the card.
“Yes, sir. Thank you so much.” The boy pressed the small baseball into Joseph’s hand and took the card. “I can’t wait to show this to my buddies. Thanks again, mister.”
Rachael smiled at the act of kindness. She was sure Caleb would’ve done the same thing. Joseph reminded her of Caleb, with his giving heart and caring attitude. But she couldn’t dwell on him. She was here to meet Adelaide. She opened her box of Cracker Jack and found a tiny metal doll. She examined it. “The details in this tiny metal doll and in the other trinkets this company makes and puts in these boxes amaze me.”
Mamm laughed. “I have a tiny sewing machine charm.” She held it out to them.
Rachael hooked her arm through Mamm’s as they strolled along the boardwalk and enjoyed the window displays in the dry goods store, bridal shop, dress shop, and candy store. She’d never understand how women wore those pencil skirts and fancy dresses. She was sure they were uncomfortable. “What are the large buildings in the distance?”
“They’re iron and steel factories.” Joseph led them to an ice cream parlor. “Would you like a drink? They have the best lemonade.”
“Sounds very refreshing,” Rachael said.
“I’d like one.” Mamm blushed.
Joseph handed Mamm the package and went inside the crowded shop.
Two older women sat on a bench in front of the ice cream shop. The heavier-set one waggled her finger. “Woodrow Wilson wasn’t my choice for president. I’m not happy with the man. He’s not the kind of leader we should have for this war we are for sure about to enter into. My grandsons are signing up to join the army, and they’re ready to serve if the United States becomes a part of it. I’m sick about it.”
The elegant older woman grabbed her friend’s forefinger. “Rowena, I wish there was something I could say to comfort you, but I’m as worried as you. My grandson told me yesterday he’s signing up.” She clutched her friend’s hand in both hers and pressed it to her chest.
Rachael had listened to Dr. Harrison and the sheriff discuss the war as they read the paper on their daily visits to the bakery. She grimaced each time they mentioned it was just a matter of time before the United States would be involved. She couldn’t imagine having sons and sending them off to war. Once, Dr. Harrison had explained how they would be fighting for freedom. Rachael better understood and vowed to pray for the soldiers and their families each day.
Mamm glanced at the ladies but kept silent. Rachael was sure she didn’t want to discuss their conversation because politics was part of the outside world.
Joseph returned with three lemonades. He passed them each one. “We’re close to the saloon.”
They finished their Cracker Jack and lemonade and proceeded to the restaurant next to the saloon.
Joseph showed them to a bench in front of the restaurant. “I’ll bring Adelaide to you.”
Rachael closed her eyes to concentrate on the piano music coming from inside the saloon. She wished Amish would allow violins and piano music. It lifted her mood and replaced the worry in her mind. She’d enjoyed two Englischers who had played violins on the street corner in Charm last year. They were passing through and stopped to make a little money. The way their hands glided the bow across the fiddle’s strings to create such beautiful music had mesmerized her. The dancing hall in Charm had a piano, and she walked past it slowly to listen to the chipper and fun songs. She didn’t dare tell a soul. Amish shouldn’t subject themselves to such things.
Mamm fidgeted her hands. “Maybe we shouldn’t have kumme. The bishop and many of our friends wouldn’t approve. I came to support Joseph and to help Adelaide, but we should’ve sent her gifts instead of kumming in person. The hotels and stores are much too lavish for us. We shouldn’t be here, using fancy things. And now we’re close to a saloon. It’s all too much. God wouldn’t approve.” She gave Rachael a stern stare. “And you’re enjoying the music way too much.”
“You’re right. I’m sorry. I wouldn’t give up Amish life for it, but I wish we could play our hymns on the piano.” She clasped her Mamm’s hand. “We don’t agree with shunning our loved ones who leave the Amish life. We also don’t shun those who need help, whether they are Amish or Englischer. We’re here with the best intentions. I’m glad you chose to accompany Joseph, and I appreciate being included as a part of this visit to help Adelaide in whatever way she’ll allow us to.”
Mamm’s face softened. “When did you become so wise?” She kissed Rachael’s hand.
Joseph walked up with a young woman with long blond curls pinned at the sides, who appeared to be with child. “Adelaide, I’d like you to meet my fiancée, Eleanor Schlabach, and her dochder, Rachael.”
Rachael struggled to keep surprise from showing on her face. Adelaide wore a tight, low-cut green dress, which stopped just below her knees, and matching worn heeled shoes.
“I’m pleased to meet you.”
Adelaide’s stomach protruded a lot, and Rachael didn’t know how she could sit in the dress without it splitting. She wondered if Adelaide had enough money for clothes. She couldn’t be comfortable.
Adelaide gave her a sly grin. “I’m guessin’ you weren’t expectin’ me to be dressed like this.” She shrugged. “I like dressin’ this way much better than wearin’ the dresses you have on. I was never cut out to be Amish. No offense. Uncle, congratulations. I’m glad you’re gettin’ married.”
“No offense taken, Adelaide. I’m glad we have your blessing on our upcoming marriage.” Mamm smiled. “We brought you bedsheets and hand towels.” She offered the package to Adelaide. “I hope they’re something you can use.”
“Thanks. I can always use more sheets and towels. I use them until they’re threadbare. I don’t have enough money to replace them most times.” Adelaide clutched the package against her chest.
“Adelaide, let’s have dinner inside the restaurant, where we can chat and you can all get better acquainted.” Joseph opened the door of the restaurant. “I’d like the table for four in the corner.”
The hostess frowned at Adelaide.
Rachael glanced at the Englischers seated at the tables. Some of the men and women stared at them. Would the hostess refuse to serve them? Adelaide didn’t fit in with the prim and proper women dressed in prettier dresses than the tight, faded, and garish dress on Joseph’s niece. They were dressed in Amish clothing, unlike the rest of the guests. The hostess didn’t seem to mind they were Amish. She hoped the hostess wouldn’t cause a fuss. Adelaide might be a little rough, but Rachael liked her honesty. She didn’t have to agree with her choices, but it didn’t mean they couldn’t express concern and offer help.
Joseph cocked his head. “I’d appreciate your help.”
The hostess’s face softened. “Right this way.” She seated them at the table.
The waitress carried a pitcher of water and filled their glasses. “Welcome. I’m Verda and I’ll be your waitress. We have spaghetti with meat sauce, beef stroganoff, and chicken pot pie today.”
They all ordered the spaghetti.
“Adelaide, how are you doing? Do you need anything?” Joseph slipped her an envelope.
“This should help. Thank you.” She folded it and stuffed it into her soiled red velvet reticule and snapped it shut. “Uncle, I have news.”
“What is it?” Joseph cleared his throat.
“I kept my short marriage to Albert a secret from you. He was part-owner of the saloon, only because his father was the prior owner. Albert inherited it after his father died two years ago. We weren’t married a year, and he was gone most of the time. You wouldn’t have approved of him. He had a temper, and he wasn’t faithful or dependable. But he made me laugh, called me pretty, and encouraged me to sing when he was here. Before, I’d been too shy. Now I’m earning extra money by doing what I love. I didn’t care about his faults. I loved him.”
Rachael leaned forward. Adelaide had referred to the man in the past tense. “Is he all right?”
“He’s fine. He left town. He sold Madge the business, and he wasn’t happy I’m with child. I’m not thrilled about the baby, but we’ll get by.” She frowned. “A week after he left, an attorney in town visited me here and asked me to sign divorce papers my husband had left.” She patted her stomach. “Like I said, my baby and me, we’ll survive without him.”
Joseph gasped. “What is Albert’s last name, and I suppose your last name too?”
“Lakes. I have no desire to have anything more to do with him.” She cast her gaze to her lap.
Joseph closed his eyes for a moment. “Under the circumstances, please return to the Amish life. Your boppli will need a home. You live in a room above a saloon. How do you get any sleep? Who will help you care for the boppli while you work?” He shook his head.
Rachael gripped her hands until her knuckles turned white. Didn’t Adelaide realize the gift she’d been given? She would give anything to be a mamm and she wouldn’t have refused to give her boppli the best life possible. She shouldn’t judge Adelaide. Joseph mentioned her mamm lived this way and enjoyed it. It was what Adelaide was used to. Rachael did worry, though. Adelaide was young to be divorced. Rachael wished Adelaide would kumme home with them.
“Some of the girls here will help me. The money you give me will supply what the baby needs. I have enough room to set a crib beside me. I’ll make it work.” Adelaide rolled her eyes. “I seem to get myself in one mess after another.”
Mamm managed a weak grin. “We’ll bring or send with Joseph boppli blankets, nappies, and some other things for your boppli to help you get ready.”
“You’re sweet. I’d appreciate anything you can spare,” Adelaide said.
“What draws you to the outside world?” Rachael set her elbow on the table and rested her chin in her hand. She couldn’t understand how living above a noisy saloon, and serving gamblers and rough men who could be dangerous, was a better life than living in a home where she would be surrounded by family and not worry about food or safety for her boppli.
Adelaide’s frown turned to a smile. “I love to sing along with the piano. I have a strong voice, and the patrons leave me and the piano player tips. The other girls who live above the saloon each have a room like mine. I’ve become close friends with some of them. I like to dance, and I enjoy wearing the colorful and different clothes and shoes. We go to the secondhand store to buy them.”
Joseph sat ramrod straight and met Adelaide’s gaze. “I’m worried you’ll be overwhelmed with raising a boppli on your own. Please reconsider moving in with me for the sake of your child.”
The waitress delivered their food and a basket of bread with a dish of butter. “Would you like anything else?”
They shook their heads, and Rachael thanked her. The hostess walked away.
“Nothing you can say will change my mind. I don’t mean to be rude. I love you, Uncle.” She tapped her reticule. “I’m very grateful for the money you’ve given me. I hope this won’t mean the end of our friendship.” She darted her gaze to Rachael and Mamm and then stared at her water glass. “You’re always welcome to join my uncle when he comes to visit. I was worried you’d judge me, but you’ve been right nice. I like you girls.”
Rachael slathered strawberry jam on her soft white bread. “Danki. I’d like to visit you again.”
Adelaide blushed. “Are you married?”
“No.” She didn’t want to mention Caleb. She came here to escape the pain of letting him go.
“I noticed your limp. What happened? Do you mind me asking?” Adelaide set her fork on the plate.
“No. I don’t mind.” Rachael recounted the story of the accident.
Mamm patted her arm. “Rachael’s been through some tough times. I’m blessed to have such a strong and compassionate dochder. She’s an excellent baker, and she works in the bakery in town.”
“With your limp and all?” Adelaide worried her eyes.
“I’m used to it, and it doesn’t hurt most of the time. When I’m tired, my leg seems heavier and more of a nuisance. I have a stool in the kitchen. I sit if it bothers me.”
“I love cake, fried apple pies, and fudge. If I worked in the bakery with you, I’d gain four hundred pounds.” She chuckled.
Nodding, Joseph finished his last bite. “I have to limit my dessert portions. I could devour a whole fruit pie if I’m not careful.”
Mamm laughed. “He had three pieces of cherry pie the second time I had him over at our place.”
Adelaide blushed. “I’ve had a good time with all of you. I appreciate the gifts. I can understand why Joseph is fond of you both.” She scooted her chair back and stood. “I’d visit more with you all, but I’ve gotta go back to work.”
Joseph held a hand to his cheek and shook his head. “I’ll walk you back to the saloon.” He glanced over his shoulder. “Do you ladies mind if I leave you here? Please order dessert.”
“We’ll be fine.” Mamm went to his niece and hugged her. “Take care.”
Rachael rose and squeezed Adelaide’s arms. “I hope we meet again.” She meant it.
This girl needed them, and her boppli would too. God wouldn’t want them to turn their backs on her.
“I’ve enjoyed getting to know you. I hope to visit you again.”
Adelaide held her package in one hand and clasped Rachael’s with the other. “You almost make me consider Amish life to have a friend like you.” She gave Rachael a warm smile. “Travel safe and thanks again.” She stepped to head toward Joseph, who was paying the bill.
Rachael smiled. “I am your friend, and I pray you will consider living in Charm, where we could spend more time together.”
“Thanks. I might surprise you.” Adelaide held her gaze, then left the restaurant with Joseph.
Mamm shuddered. “I had no idea what to expect. Adelaide is like a child. I don’t know how she survives with the life she’s living. She’s putting herself and her boppli at risk.”
“I’m glad this town is in Ohio and not out of reach for Joseph to visit her. He can make sure she’s all right while encouraging her to kumme home with us.”
Joseph returned to join them after taking his niece to the saloon. “Danki for your acceptance of Adelaide. I’m grateful you’ll allow me to share about her and ask your advice. She was happy to meet you, and she responded to both of you much better than I anticipated. I wasn’t sure if she’d shy away from you due to her line of work and you being Amish.”
Mamm clasped his hand for a quick moment. “She’s family.”
Joseph nodded. “Enough about Adelaide. Let’s tour the city more.”
Rachael loved the train whistle, the peddlers’ calls to the public to buy their products, and the newspaper boy waving a paper over his head and shouting about the latest news of the world war. She shuddered. It must be hard on the families who had sons and husbands fighting in this war. She sighed with sadness. A couple strolled past her holding hands and giggling. She wished Caleb was with them to tour the city. She’d never stop thinking about him.
* * *
Caleb hadn’t slept or had much of an appetite since Rachael ended their courtship on Monday. He wouldn’t have jabbered on about how much he looked forward to being a daed if he’d known she was barren. Giving up bobblis would be a sacrifice he would make to have a future with her. He missed her sweet face. Here it was, Thursday evening, and he sat alone on the porch swing at the haus he’d bought for them. He would stop in the bakery tomorrow. He had to convince her they were right for each other.
He studied the buggy approaching the haus. He rolled his eyes. Frannie. He wasn’t in the mood to talk to her. Maybe she’d noticed the advertisements he’d posted in the general store and post office for a farmhand for her place. She could be here to tell him she was pleased he’d done this. He hoped the men he hired wouldn’t quit if she proved to be too bossy.
Frannie parked the buggy. “Thought you might like some company.” She untied Lily from the makeshift boppli chair Caleb had put in her buggy to transport his niece.
She was the last person he wanted to visit him. He accepted Lily from her. “How’s my little ray of sunshine?” He held her in the air.
“Unkie.” Lily giggled.
Frannie tied her reins to the hitching post. “You haven’t invited us over since you moved.”
“All the furniture wasn’t arranged in the rooms until last night.” He carried Lily on his hip, and she rested her head on his shoulder.
“I thought I’d find Rachael here.”
“She ended our courtship.” Caleb looked past her at the ducks in the pond.
“Why?” Frannie put a hand to her hip.
“She’s barren. I’d said too often how I’d love to have kinner. She’s convinced I should marry a woman who can provide kinner. She’s wrong. She’s still the woman I want to marry.”
“She’s doing you a favor. You’ll realize it soon enough.” Frannie batted her eyelashes and raised her chin.
Caleb considered her arrogant and loathed her. He shouldn’t have told her why he and Rachael were no longer courting. He was upset with himself for doing so. She’d caught him off guard. But he wouldn’t have any further conversation with her about it.
They strolled to the porch, and he chose the swing. Frannie sat next to him and Lily. Too close for his liking. Why didn’t she sit in the rocker? He resisted the urge to scoot away or get up and sit in the chair. He wouldn’t move because she might make a smart remark about it in front of the bishop. Her mere presence had his stomach in knots.
“Caleb, with Rachael out of the way, you should reconsider marrying me. I need you, and Stephen wouldn’t be pleased with you leaving Lily and me alone. Don’t you feel bad about letting your bruder and us down?”
“Frannie, I’ve made myself clear, and I’m firm in my decision.”
“I’m hurt you don’t want to marry me and appalled you’re not fulfilling Stephen’s wishes.” She had been manipulative with Stephen. Why was he surprised she would try to manipulate him?
A buggy approached the haus. He stood, holding a sleeping Lily. Who was this stranger? He was glad for the interruption. He was done with this conversation with Frannie.
The average-height man he guessed was a little older than himself tied his reins to the hitching post and approached them. He tipped his hat. “I’m sorry to intrude. My name’s Luke Kilmer. I’m here about the advertisement you posted in the general store for a farmhand. I’m from Winesburg, Ohio. I’m twenty-five and in good health. I have no family, and I previously worked for an Englischer who had a farm. I lived in the outside world for two years, but I’d like to return to the life. The farmer died not long ago. I’ve visited Charm before and liked it. Would you consider hiring me?”
Caleb rocked Lily in the swing. “Have a seat. This is Frannie Yutzy. She’s my late bruder’s fraa, and this is her dochder, Lily. The job is to care for her farm.”
He nodded to Frannie. “I’m pleased to make your acquaintance, ma’am.”
She blushed. “There’s no need for you to be formal. Call me Frannie. Have you cared for a boppli before?”
Caleb gritted his teeth. The man would run out of here any moment with that kind of question. But it was better he’d find out now what he was getting himself into.
“Yes. I adore kinner. The man I worked for, Harold Sanders, had six grosskinner who lived close and visited often. We played hide-and-seek and board games and tossed a ball. I’ll miss them. I’d have no objection to caring for Lily when you need me to.”
“Didn’t his kinner want the place and need you to still manage the property?” Caleb quirked his brows.
“They sold it to a family with older kinner who supplied plenty of help to run the place,” Luke said.
Caleb raised his brows. This was good news. The opposite of what he’d expected the man to say.
Frannie grinned. “How wonderful. Do you cook, clean, and wash and hang clothes to dry?”
“Sure. I used to help out with all those chores when Patricia, Harold’s fraa, needed an extra hand. I had more time in the winter for such tasks.”
Caleb stifled his chuckle. Frannie and Luke couldn’t stop smiling at each other, and they acted as if he wasn’t there. He wouldn’t get his hopes up. The man might quit after one day with his demanding schweschder-in-law.
“Have you been married before? Do you have kinner?” Frannie balanced her elbow on the chair arm and rested her chin in the palm of her hand.
“I was married for six months to Beverly, until she died four years ago. I don’t have kinner.” Luke stared at his finger-laced hands.
“I’m sorry that happened to you.” Fannie gave him a sympathetic smile.
“Danki for your understanding.” He raised his gaze to meet hers.
Caleb stayed quiet and enjoyed the conversation between the two. He was sure Frannie would scare the man off before the interview was over. Maybe not, considering the way Luke seemed smitten with her.
“Caleb, do you have any questions for Luke?” She gestured to the man.
“Do you consider yourself a handyman?” Caleb needed a farmhand who could mend fences and stalls, among other things.
“Yes. There isn’t anything I can’t do when it kummes to managing a farm. I’m good with animals, the garden, and crops.” Luke seemed confident, but he didn’t kumme across as arrogant.
“Do you have any questions?” Caleb rubbed Lily’s back.
“Does room and board kumme with the job?” Luke sucked in his upper lip.
“There’s an empty shed with a hardwood floor and stove you can move into. It came with the haus, but we haven’t used it. It has a bed, a nightstand, a small table and a chair inside it. I had planned on moving into it, but my bruder insisted I live inside the haus, and it was easier for me.” Caleb discussed his wages.
Frannie grinned. “Luke, will you accept the job?”
“Yes. Danki. When may I start?” Luke stood.
Frannie rose. “Now?”
Luke relaxed. “I’d love to. May I stay in the shed you’ve prepared?”
“Of course. I’ll bring you a clean set of sheets and towels soon after we get home. I’ll provide your meals.” Frannie gave him a shy grin.
He smiled and tipped his hat. “How kind of you.”
Caleb blinked a couple of times. He was sure this was a dream. Frannie flirting with Luke? He would be happy if they fell in love if this man turned out to be genuine and a suitable daed for Lily.
Caleb held out his hand. “If you have questions, you know where to find me. I’ll stop over now and then to check in with you. Frannie will inform you when our next Sunday service is, and where.”
Frannie grinned. “Yes. Luke can accompany Lily and me. Caleb, I’ll take Lily, and Luke can follow me home.”
She’d just met the man and she trusted him already. She should be more cautious. Caleb wasn’t sure it was a good idea to be so trusting without taking the time to observe him and his work ethic. Talk was cheap. Results were important.
Luke straightened his hat. “You don’t know me, and you must be wary, leaving me alone with Frannie and Lily. I assure you, they are safe with me.”
So he said. Caleb wanted to believe the man was genuine, and he hoped he was right. “We haven’t had but this single meeting together. I may be Amish and taught to avoid conflict, but if anything should happen to them, I will find you.”
Frannie batted the air. “Don’t be silly, Caleb. We’ll be fine.”
Luke looked him in the eye. “I understand. I’m a God-fearing man who has never had any trouble with the law, nor will I disobey Amish rules. I promise you.”
Caleb believed him. Frannie was comfortable with Luke, so he’d take a chance on the man. “Take good care of them.”
Luke nodded, and Caleb had peace about Luke.
Frannie waited at her buggy with Lily.
Caleb walked halfway to them and stopped.
Luke met her and held Lily while she got in the buggy and passed her back to her.
Lily rubbed her eyes and waved to Luke. “Bye-bye.”
They left, and Caleb prayed Luke would be the perfect match for Frannie, as a farmhand and a husband. He laughed at himself. It hadn’t even been a day since he’d met Luke. These expectations were unrealistic. He would be surprised if the man lasted a week.