Chapter 14
Rachael dressed and washed her face Friday morning. She readied Marie, then emptied a smaller flour sack she’d brought some jars of water in and filled it with what she needed for her. Joseph and Caleb came out of their room at the same time she left hers.
They had a late breakfast in the dining room. Rachael had little appetite.
The waitress oohed and ahhed over Marie. “I’m Evelyn, Jewel’s sister. I’m sorry for your loss. Jewel stopped by last night and told me what happened to Adelaide, and how relieved she is you and her uncle are here to take Marie. Jewel said you were someone she admired. I’m glad you’ll be raising her daughter.”
“It’s a pleasure to meet you,” Rachael said.
Caleb paid the bill, and the waitress left to wait on another customer.
They left, took their time, and walked to the funeral home, arriving at noon.
“Welcome. I’m Teresa Bell. I’ll leave you alone to have some private time.”
They nodded and went to the casket.
Joseph offered a prayer to God.
Rachael stared at her friend she’d kumme to care about in a short time. She looked peaceful, as if she was sleeping. Joseph said Adelaide believed in God. It wasn’t for her to judge. God knew Adelaide’s heart. She’d miss not having Adelaide in her life. She’d always remember Adelaide’s hand covering hers when Marie had kicked before she was born, her laughter, and her hugs. Her body shook as she struggled to keep from sobbing.
Caleb gestured to Madge and Jewel and a group of women with them entering the room. The casket was made of cherrywood and had scrolled corners. Vases full of pretty roses, carnations, and other flowers were displayed on wooden pedestals on either side of the casket.
There were rows of wooden benches, much like theirs, in rows on either side of the room, leaving an aisle between them. An ornate podium was off to the side. A piano was in the corner of the room. There was a stained-glass window with the outline of a cross in the middle.
Madge, Jewel, and the girls greeted them and then went to view Adelaide. Madge gestured to the women to take their seats, and she went to the piano. She began to play a hymn.
Mourners filled the room, each offering their condolences to her, Caleb, and Joseph. She knew Bishop Fisher wouldn’t approve of all this, but Rachael had to be there.
Mr. Young stood behind the podium at one, and the room was full. “Please take your seats.” He offered a prayer to God. “Madge has provided me with notes about Adelaide. I’ll share them with you. Adelaide was kind, thoughtful, and loyal. She was genuine, and she helped her friends any way she could. The word ‘no’ wasn’t often said by Adelaide when she was asked to waitress extra hours or to clean the floors. She had a wonderful sense of humor, and she could lift your mood in no time with her silly jokes or made-up songs.” He finished his speech. “Please join me and the family as we walk to the burial site to the left of the funeral home.”
Rachael carried Marie. She was thankful the newborn was sleeping. She was such a good boppli. She whispered to Caleb, “I dread the burial. Even though I know she’s not in the casket, I don’t like the lowering of it. It’s all so final. I long to hug her one more time.” She sniffled.
“I wish I could’ve met her.” He looked lovingly at Marie. “She’s so tiny. I can’t believe she’s ours. This has all happened so fast. I’m sad about Adelaide. She left us such a precious gift.”
“Yes. I have a difficult time putting her down. I want to hold her forever and never let her go.” Rachael had memorized every inch of Marie. She had the roundest eyes, and the fullest cheeks and lips. She had dainty hands and feet.
Joseph kept silent.
The three of them stood in front of the mourners, and Rachael shivered with nerves.
Mr. Young prayed, led them in a hymn, and said kind words about Adelaide again. “Please return to the social room in the funeral home to partake of the food prepared by Adelaide’s friends.”
Two men stayed and filled the hole where the casket was lowered earlier. Rachael watched them shovel dirt for a moment, and then she followed Joseph and Caleb to the funeral home. She, Joseph, and Caleb took their seats. The ladies told happy stories about Adelaide. She’d made them laugh, sang their favorite songs, and had been a loyal friend to them.
An hour later, they stood to leave.
Mr. Young shook Joseph’s hand. “I pray you have a safe journey home.”
“Danki for all you’ve done today.” Joseph sucked in his wavering lip.
They bid Adelaide’s friends farewell and returned to the boardinghaus.
* * *
The next morning, they traveled home, making a couple of short stops along the way.
“What will we tell the bishop and our friends who don’t know we’ve been going to New Philadelphia to visit Adelaide?” Rachael worried many of the Amish might not understand.
Joseph inhaled and exhaled slowly. “We went to check on Adelaide. She was with child. She died during childbirth, and we brought Marie home to raise. I doubt we’ll encounter any judgment since she died. They won’t object to us bringing Marie home to raise as Amish. If we should encounter disapproval, I’ll take the blame. I’ll tell the bishop or Amish who confront me that I asked you both to join me for help.”
Caleb put his hand on Joseph’s shoulder. “No. I’ll stand with you. I don’t expect to have any Amish do anything but express their condolences and shower Marie with love.”
Joseph glanced at Rachael. “Your mamm will be shocked. So will many of our friends. One look at Marie, though, and they’ll drop any judgment.”
“It’s going to take a long time not to grieve Adelaide’s death. I had looked forward to many conversations and sharing our stories about our childhoods, our friendships with others, and more.” She never thought she’d be as close to an Englischer like Adelaide. She’d connected with her the first time they met. She’d truly been family. She’d cherish the conversations she’d had with Adelaide.
* * *
They arrived home late Saturday afternoon, and Caleb got his buggy and headed to his haus. He had asked Luke to take care of his place and livestock, and he was eager to check on him and the animals.
Rachael and Joseph entered the haus.
Mamm gasped. “You have a boppli in your arms. Did Adelaide have her boppli? Did she ask you to care for her for a couple of days?” She rambled and then stopped.
Rachael sat on the settee with Marie and cried. She could let her emotions out with Mamm, and being home brought Adelaide’s death to the forefront again. “Joseph, you tell her.”
“Tell me what? You’re scaring me.”
“Please sit, Eleanor.” Joseph gestured to the settee. He sat in the chair across from her. “When we arrived, Adelaide was giving birth. Rachael went to be by her side. She wasn’t there long before Marie was born, and Adelaide died. Madge relayed to Caleb and me what happened while Rachael was still with Adelaide and Marie. The doctor’s not sure if it was her heart or what was the cause. Adelaide’s friends were gracious enough to arrange the service the next day. They closed the saloon, and the funeral director conducted the funeral and burial. Her friends also provided food after the burial for us.”
Mamm’s eyes filled with tears. “I’m speechless. I should’ve been with you. I’m sorry.” She stared at Marie. “I take it Adelaide’s friends asked you to take Marie? She has Adelaide’s blond hair and turned-up nose. I can’t believe she’s gone.”
“Madge, the manager and a close friend of Adelaide’s, asked Rachael to take her. Adelaide had praised Rachael to her, and Madge had no problem handing Marie to her. She said Adelaide loved Rachael and considered her a schweschder after their first meeting.” Joseph gazed into Rachael’s eyes. “I’m overwhelmed with gratitude to you for offering to meet Adelaide, wanting to grow a friendship with her, and accepting her without hesitation.”
“I’m the one who should say danki. She taught me lessons about how far and wide God’s love stretches, and we’re not the only believers. She also gave me this little miracle. I’m a mamm. I’ve desired to be a mamm for a long time. I wouldn’t have wanted Adelaide to have to sacrifice her life for me to have Marie, but I’ll always be grateful to her.”
Mamm circled her arm around Rachael’s shoulders. “You will make a loving and wonderful mamm. Marie is a miracle.”
Joseph recounted more of the details of their stay in New Philadelphia.
Caleb arrived and walked inside the haus. He set the cradle he’d made on the floor. “I forgot to take this with us. I never imagined we’d be using it.”
Mamm hugged him. “You’re a daed.”
Rachael admired the cradle. “Caleb, this is amazing. I’m sure Marie will enjoy the rock of the cradle, and we’ll be thankful for it when it soothes her.”
“Eleanor, I consider Rachael my dochder. Our double wedding ceremony is but two weeks away. You’ll be a grossmudder, and I’ll be a grossdaed,” Joseph said.
Caleb beamed. “I’m a daed. I repeated this several times to myself on the way home. Until I brought over this cradle, it didn’t seem real. But now it does.”
Rachael passed Marie to him. “She’s light.”
He beamed as he gazed at Marie’s tiny face. “Yes. She did well on the trip. I was worried it might be too much for a newborn.” Caleb tightened the blanket around her. “I’m never going to let her court when she’s of age.”
Rachael chuckled for the first time since Adelaide’s passing. “I’m with you. I want to keep her all to ourselves.” She had much to look forward to, being a mamm. She’d knit booties and a blanket and stitch little dresses.
* * *
Rachael was excited and apprehensive to go to church. She wasn’t sure how their story about Adelaide would be received. She carried the bag she’d packed for Marie. She was tired from the trip, but she couldn’t wait to show her friends the boppli. “Are you ready to leave, Mamm?”
“The mare is harnessed to the buggy.”
They walked to the buggy together and got in.
“I’m proud of you. You’re prepared with a bag for Marie and you’re on time.” Mamm headed to the Yoders for the church service. “Will you work at the bakery? If so, I’ll watch Marie.”
Rachael tensed. She didn’t want to leave Marie even for a day. “I don’t want to work at the bakery anymore, but I’ll not leave Magdelena without anyone. I’ll ask Magdelena what to do. Maybe I can coax Liza or Hannah to take my place until they hire a new baker.”
“I’m sure they’ll be accommodating.”
They arrived at the Yoders’, and Mamm parked the buggy with the others. Mrs. Yoder loved having the services at their place, and she often hosted social events. The Yoders had a perfect spot for entertaining. They had a large farm, and they were a gracious couple. Mrs. Yoder said she didn’t care if her haus was a mess with dirty dishes in the sink and laundry piled in a chair, she’d rather be entertaining visitors. “The more the merrier” was her motto.
Joseph and Caleb met them. They complimented the boppli’s sweet face and tiny hands and feet. Joseph escorted them to the church benches outside.
Mrs. Yoder placed a hand on Rachael’s back. “Why do you have a boppli?”
Mr. Yoder pulled her away. “Tell the women where you want the desserts. You change where you want things every time. I don’t know what to tell them.”
“Excuse me.” She waddled away with him.
Caleb chuckled. “And the questions begin.”
The men went to their side of the benches and Rachael sat with Mamm on the other side, in the back. “Let’s stay here. If Marie fusses, I can move farther away from everyone and not be disruptive.”
“Thinking like a mamm already.” Mamm winked.
She stifled a laugh, thinking this would be a long service for her friends, wondering why she was holding a boppli. Magdelena and her other friends kept giving her questioning glances. They’d be anxious to find out why she had a boppli with her and what happened in New Philadelphia. She worried Joseph would be admonished by the bishop or some of the Amish. She didn’t want him to shoulder the responsibility. She was to blame too. She wouldn’t let him stand alone. She knew Caleb would feel the same. He hadn’t gone on the first trip with her. He didn’t have as much to answer for as they did, but she suspected he’d stand with them no matter.
* * *
Bishop Fisher stood before them. The comfortable, warm day with a slight breeze was perfect for having the service outside. The grass was lush and green. The Yoders’ barn stood tall and freshly painted white. The horses grazed in the corral far off. They had perfect rows of vegetables in their large garden. The pond traveled through their property off to the side, providing a picturesque addition to the haus. It would make a beautiful painting the Englischers might buy.
The bishop offered a prayer to God, led them to sing hymns, and spoke on teaching kinner to obey God and their parents, work hard, and be respectful to their elders. He led them in more songs, prayed to God to bless the food, and dismissed them.
Her friends hurried to Rachael.
Ellie bounced Emma on her hip. “Where on earth did this boppli kumme from?”
Magdelena peeled back the blanket. “She’s precious.”
Hannah lifted Marie from her arms. “She’s adorable.”
Maryann and Liza oohed and ahhed over Marie.
Ellie pulled back the blanket. “Who is this?”
Rachael recounted what happened in New Philadelphia. “I love everything about Marie and being her mamm. Nothing with her is a chore.” Rachael’s stomach danced with happy butterflies.
Hannah rocked Marie in her arms. “I don’t suppose you want to work at the bakery any longer. I’ve missed the shop. I’ll take your place and work until I tire of it, and then we’ll hire a new baker. Are you all right with that, Magdelena?”
“I love working with you, Hannah. Rachael, I’ll miss you, but this is your dream kumme true. You should enjoy every moment with this adorable little blessing from God.” She reached for Rachael’s hand.
“Danki for understanding.” Rachael had no doubt her friends would be happy for her.
Liza waved a dismissive hand. “Don’t think twice about it. I’ll fill in if Hannah or Magdelena need a day off, and we can always hire another baker. Enjoy your little one.”
“Danki, Liza.” Rachael was glad they were receptive and nonchalant about it. She didn’t feel like she’d put them in a predicament at all.
Maryann had Betsy in her arms. “I have boppli clothes for you. I saved Betsy’s.”
“I can sure use them. I appreciate it.” Rachael grinned.
Magdelena accepted Marie from Hannah and stayed close. The girls expressed their best wishes to her and bid them farewell and went to join their husbands. Magdelena wrinkled her forehead. “Are you worried about what the bishop or some Amish may say about your trip to New Philadelphia, considering Adelaide was an Englischer?”
“Yes. I don’t want any of us to be judged for checking on Adelaide. No one will criticize us accepting Marie to raise. She’ll be Amish.” Rachael was afraid Joseph would take the brunt of the scolding if the bishop or other Amish had a problem with their going to New Philadelphia to visit his niece. They didn’t need to know how many times they’d been there.
Magdelena passed Marie to Rachael with tears in her eyes. “You can count on me and the girls to support you. Having a boppli means the world to you. You don’t have to be sad about this anymore. Thanks to Adelaide. A miracle for sure.” She hugged Rachael. “I’ll miss you at the bakery. Don’t be a stranger and visit Hannah and me often.”
“I promise.” Her smile faded.
Joseph and Caleb were with Bishop Fisher.
She didn’t want them to protect her if there was any admonishment. “Excuse me.” She left the girls and joined Joseph and Caleb talking with the bishop. She hoped the bishop wasn’t admonishing them.
“Rachael, I’m sorry for your loss. Joseph and Caleb explained what happened. I’m sure you’ll be the kind of mamm little Marie needs. If you ask me, God had a plan for you and Caleb. Little Marie is in good hands.”
“Danki. Yes. I’ll take good care of her.” She didn’t know how much Joseph and Caleb had told the bishop. She didn’t want to say too much.
Mrs. Yoder pulled the bishop’s arm. “I’ve filled your plate, and you can have a seat with our family right under the willow tree.”
More friends approached them and exclaimed over the boppli. She let Joseph and Caleb tell the story again.
Frannie strolled to them. “Who does this boppli belong to?”
Caleb told her the story. “Adelaide’s mamm, Joseph’s schweschder, left Amish life. She raised her dochder in the outside world. Joseph checked on Adelaide a couple of times. We offered to go with him to meet her.” He told her the rest of the story of how they came to bring Marie home.
“You should be shunned for trotting off to New Philadelphia to visit a family member who should be living the Amish life. After her mamm died, there was no reason for Adelaide to remain there. Why is the bishop letting you off the hook?” Frannie sneered.
Caleb’s cheeks reddened. “We may have faced judgment for our visit if Adelaide hadn’t died, but we were given Marie to raise. I’d appreciate you keeping your voice down, and please don’t stir up any trouble.”
Luke came alongside her. “What a pretty little girl.”
Frannie repeated the story to him.
Luke’s face filled with compassion. “I’m sorry Adelaide didn’t survive the birth. It must be difficult to be here today, so soon after her death. What a blessing Marie will have two wonderful parents.”
Rachael was baffled as to why Luke would be attracted to Frannie. He was handsome, a hard worker, and one of the nicest men in their community.
“Danki, Luke. We appreciate your compassion and understanding.”
Caleb repeated to Luke that he’d rather not have anything negative said concerning their trip to New Philadelphia.
Luke shook his head. “Why would you think we wouldn’t support you?”
“Frannie doesn’t share your sentiment.” Caleb frowned.
Frannie’s cheeks blazed. “I’m hungry. Let’s go, Luke.”
He narrowed his eyes. “Frannie, don’t be rude. And let me be clear. I expect you won’t say anything unpleasant or raise concerns about their trip to New Philadelphia, Adelaide, or Marie.”
“Don’t be silly. Of course not. Caleb doesn’t know what he’s talking about. Ignore him.” Frannie dragged Luke to the food table.
Rachael blew out a breath. “Before she came over to us, I had been relieved and thought everything had gone well with the bishop. She has me worried. I don’t trust her.”
* * *
Rachael knitted the last two stitches she needed in the second pink-and-white bootee Monday afternoon. She held them. They would fit Marie’s tiny little feet. She’d not missed working at the shop since she’d returned from New Philadelphia. She couldn’t believe it had been a little over a week since they’d attended Adelaide’s funeral. She loved Marie so much. She’d relished having her days with the newborn, who was easy and contented.
Mamm sat next to her, knitting a boppli blanket. “Frannie and Luke’s wedding is tomorrow. She’ll be your schweschder-in-law, and Lily is near and dear to Caleb’s heart. Have you considered trying to talk with her to ease the tension between you?”
Rachael shrugged. “No. We’ll be family, and I don’t want any awkwardness between us when we’re together. I’m not sure if we’re better off keeping our distance from them or not. I love Lily too. Once Frannie and Luke are married, we should plan to have family suppers, but I’m not interested in being around her if she’s going to be nasty.”
“I’ll watch Marie and you take her the other mixed berry pie on the counter. You won’t know if you don’t try. Sunshine, the clear sky, and a pie might improve her disposition.”
Rachael didn’t want to take Mamm’s advice, but, for Caleb’s sake, she would. “What do I have to lose? I’ll go. Should I take Marie?”
“Not this time. Give Frannie your full attention.”
Rachael set the pie in her tin metal carrier and headed to Frannie’s. She arrived and tied the mare’s reins to the hitching post. She sucked in a deep breath and stepped onto the porch.
Frannie swung open the door. “Noticed you kumming toward the haus. What do you want?”
“I’d like to talk about you and me.” She held out the pie. “This is for you. A mixed berry pie.”
Frannie opened the door wider. “Danki. Kumme in. Lily’s in bed, napping. Where’s Marie?”
“Mamm has her.” She set the pie on the coffee table. “Are you ready for your wedding tomorrow? Is there anything I can help you with while I’m here?”
“No. We’re ready.” Her reply was cold and terse.
“Frannie, we’ll be family and I’d like us to socialize and enjoy being together.”
“I still think Caleb should’ve agreed to marry me. Love had nothing to do with it. It was his responsibility to take care of us. He’s lucky Luke came along and we fell in love. You should’ve stayed out of our way. Even though things changed for me and I no longer wanted to marry Caleb, I resent you for standing in the way.”
Rachael struggled to stifle her exasperation. This woman wanted to hold on to a grudge when there was no need. “You and Luke will build a future together. Lily will have a daed. Luke adores her. Why would you want to hold on to your frustration over the past? We have dochders, which gives us something in common. I’m here to mend fences with you, but I need you to meet me halfway.”
Frannie fidgeted her hands. “Luke mentioned he’s interested in socializing with you and Caleb. He asked me to visit you and discuss it. I’ve been putting it off and you kumming here has saved me the trip.”
“I’m not sure if you do or do not want to socialize with Caleb and me.” Rachael’s stomach clenched. She didn’t want to have tension each time they were together at church services or community socials, even if they didn’t have family suppers.
“I suppose I can work on letting go of my frustration with you. I can’t promise we’ll be friends. But I’ll agree to be cordial. Luke expects us to make plans to get together now and then. He likes Caleb, and he doesn’t understand why I’m rude to you. He asked me to work on my attitude.” She rolled her eyes.
Rachael winced. “Why are you frustrated with me? I’m no threat to you. You and Luke will marry and have a future together. You no longer need Caleb for a husband.” She didn’t want a strained relationship with Frannie. She’d dread family events with Frannie if this woman made snide remarks to her.
Frannie’s face softened. “You were in my way after Stephen died, and I wanted Caleb to commit to me. I was afraid of being alone. Luke has asked me to befriend you. I’m not sure we’ll ever be friends, but I’ll work on it now I don’t need Caleb to marry me any longer.”
“Danki. I appreciate your effort. I’d like for us to become friends. We’ll be family.” Over time, Rachael hoped Frannie would allow herself to get to know her. She prayed her visit today was the first step in a more positive direction for her and Frannie. “Do you mind if I pray before I leave?” Rachael reached for Frannie’s hand.
Frannie allowed her to clasp her hand, but she didn’t grip her fingers.
Rachael bowed her head. “Dear Heavenly Father, bless Frannie and Luke’s marriage. Give them warm weather, good health, and an enjoyable day. Help me to be the schweschder-in-law you would have me be to Frannie. Intervene on our behalf and help us grow closer together. We love you, Heavenly Father. Amen.”
Frannie jerked her hand back into her lap. “Danki for the pie. Mixed berry is one of my favorites.”
“You’re wilkom. Best wishes for your wedding tomorrow. Give Lily a hug for me.”
Frannie gave her a curt nod. “And one from me to Marie.” She shut the door behind Rachael.
Rachael stepped off the porch, carrying her empty pie carrier. A small step was better than nothing. Her visit today would make attending the wedding tomorrow more comfortable. They might never be close, but she would pray Frannie would let go of her bitterness and be less confrontational.
* * *
Tuesday, Caleb had a lilt in his step. He wished it was his wedding day instead of Luke and Frannie’s, but he had but one more week until he and Rachael and Marie would be living together in his haus. Marie had been such a blessing to them, and they had a lifetime with her to look forward to. He went to Rachael’s haus and walked inside. “Is everyone ready?”
Rachael had a bag slung over her arm, and she carried Marie. “Mamm and Joseph left a couple of minutes ago. Mamm wanted to set our food dishes on the table in plenty of time before the service and ceremony.”
He removed the bag from her shoulder, kissed Marie’s tiny hand, and strolled across the yard with them to the buggy.
She recounted to him her visit with Frannie.
“It was gracious of you to visit her. I’m sorry she wasn’t more receptive. I appreciate your efforts. Luke and I haven’t had a hint of any conflict, and I enjoy his company. Of course, Lily is near and dear to me. Danki for doing that.” He drove to Luke and Frannie’s. “Many of our friends are here already.”
They stepped down from the buggy.
Ellie hooked her arm through Rachael’s. “Greetings. We’ll be attending your wedding soon. I can’t wait. I had to make myself attend this one, since I’m not fond of Frannie.” She scrunched her face.
“I’m counting the days.” Caleb held his head up high.
Rachael grinned at Caleb and cradled Marie. “Where’s Emma?”
Ellie gestured to Joel across the yard. “Her daed has her. What did you and Caleb bring for a wedding present?”
Caleb gestured to the buggy. “The presents are tied to the small cart we have behind the buggy. A potato box and a new bread holder. I asked Luke what they needed, and he mentioned those two things. We bought them from Andrew’s store.”
“I brought a set of kitchen towels. She doesn’t deserve anything. She’s such a troublemaker. I don’t like the way she’s treated you.” Ellie pinched her lips.
“Frannie’s a challenge.” Caleb didn’t want to elaborate on his schweschder-in-law’s wedding day.
“I had a frank talk with her yesterday. She said she’d work on letting go of her grudge against me. I’m encouraged she’ll make more of an effort to be nicer. I’ll take anything positive from her that I can get.”
“She’ll have to do better to win me over.” Ellie rolled her eyes. “The woman is wearing a hard shell. She makes you work for a friendship with her. She mutters a greeting when we pass each other at Sunday service, and I always have to greet her first.”
“I’m determined to ignore her rudeness and work at befriending her. It may take a long time, though, but we’re family. I don’t want to be tense around her when we’re together, and I have been since we met.”
Caleb admired Rachael for not feeding into Ellie’s negativity.
Ellie was a loyal and protective friend of Rachael’s. He understood her animosity, but she could be harsh herself sometimes.
“You’re a better woman than me. I wouldn’t waste another minute on her.” Ellie put her finger under Marie’s. “She’s a contented boppli. You’re blessed. Emma is too. She takes after her daed.” Ellie laughed.
“I always wanted to be a mamm, but being one is different than I expected. It’s even more of a special bond than I’d imagined.” Rachael smiled. “Marie has no regard for the clock. She’s kept me from sleeping through the night, but I expect she’ll soon get on the same schedule as me.”
Caleb had been awed by how natural mammhood had been for Rachael. She hadn’t been rattled by how many times Marie got her up at night or the constant caring for the newborn.
Ellie grinned. “How well I remember. There are no words to explain what a boppli brings to your heart. We’re all thrilled for you, Caleb, and Marie. I’d better take Emma from Joel and check her nappy before the ceremony starts.” She went to find Joel.
“Greetings, Caleb.” Magdelena hugged Rachael. “I miss working with you at the bakery.”
“I miss you too. Stop over and visit Mamm and me after work sometime. After Caleb and I marry, you’re wilkom to visit us there too.” Rachael nudged her.
“Yes. Bring Toby. We’ll enjoy supper together.” Caleb was fond of Magdelena and Toby. They were one of his favorite couples.
“I wanted to leave you alone to enjoy your little one.” Magdelena ran her finger over little Marie’s soft cheek.
The bishop waved the guests over to the benches outside. “Please be seated. I’d like to begin.”
They took their seats. Caleb sat with Joseph on the men’s side, and Rachael sat with her mamm.
Bishop Fisher offered a prayer, had them sing hymns, and spoke on the importance of communication in a marriage. Two hours later, he motioned to Luke and Frannie. “Please join me.”
Luke passed Lily to Caleb.
Lily reached for Luke. “Dada.”
Caleb rubbed her back. “He’ll be back.”
Lily sucked her thumb and rested her head on his chest while he held her.
The bishop directed Luke to say his vows.
Luke opened his mouth to speak.
An attractive woman in a ruffled white blouse and fitted ankle skirt rose and interrupted him. “I object to this marriage.”
Luke’s mouth hung open.
Frannie glowered.
Caleb passed Lily to Joseph, then rose and went to the woman.
Their friends murmured and whispered to one another.
Bishop Fisher raised his hand. “Everyone, please be quiet. Luke and Frannie, please be seated. We’ll resume this ceremony in a couple of minutes. Please stay seated.” He reached Caleb and the woman. “Let’s step away, where we can have more privacy, please.”
Caleb, the woman, and Luke followed the bishop a good distance away from the family and friends in attendance.
The bishop glanced over his shoulder. “Luke, I didn’t know you were behind me.”
Luke didn’t answer. “Helena, what are you doing here?”
Frannie stomped over and faced Helena. “Who are you?”
“She’s a woman I was engaged to in the outside world a year and a half ago. She found a man she liked better, and she broke our engagement. I don’t know why she’s kumme here.”
Bishop Fisher stepped between the women. “Frannie, calm yourself. Take a seat on the front bench. We’ll handle this.”
Frannie scowled at Helena and then went back to her seat.
Helena wiped a tear. “Bishop Fisher, we were engaged once. I made a mistake and left him. I love him. I’ll do anything if you’ll take me back, Luke. Please. You said no when I came to where you’re living, but I had to make my plea one more time before I leave town.”
Luke faced her. “You ended our engagement. I regret leaving the Amish life. I’ve grown roots here, and I’ve moved on, Helena. Frannie and I love each other. I’m looking forward to a future with her and her dochder, Lily. It’s wrong for you to interfere and ruin our wedding day. Please leave and don’t kumme here again.”
Bishop Fisher pointed to the buggies. “Madam, you need to leave. There’s no reason for you to stay here.”
“You’re all a bunch of simpletons. Luke, you’ll regret staying here. I could have showed you a much better life if you’d tried the outside world. It’s your loss.” Helena scowled and swiped angry tears from her face and then hurried to her buggy.
Bishop Fisher ushered them back to where everyone was waiting for them. “Let’s resume the ceremony.”
Caleb sat next to Joseph, who held Lily, fast asleep in his arms.
Bishop Fisher faced the attendees. “Luke and Frannie, please kumme to the front and face each other.”
Bishop Fisher offered a prayer to God and then helped direct them to say their vows to each other. He didn’t acknowledge Helena’s outburst earlier. Caleb admired how the bishop handled the situation.
“I now pronounce Luke and Frannie Kilmer married.” The bishop offered another prayer to God for the food they were about to eat. “You’re dismissed.”
Luke clasped Frannie’s hand, and they walked down the aisle between the men and women.
Their friends and family gathered around and offered their congratulations.
Caleb went to Rachael. “In spite of Helena’s unwilkom visit, it was a nice ceremony.”
She nodded.
They watched as the couple beamed. He was happy for them.
Frannie approached them. “May I hold Marie for a moment?”
“Sure.” Rachael placed the boppli in her arms.
“Congratulations, Frannie.” Caleb was baffled at Frannie approaching them. She’d never made the first effort to be pleasant. Maybe Rachael’s visit to make peace with her had helped.
Joseph joined them. “Your dochder is precious.”
Lily held her arms out to Frannie. “Mum.”
“Wait a minute, honey. Isn’t Marie pretty?” Frannie held Marie close for Lily to view.
“Bebe.” Lily touched the blanket.
“Marie didn’t wake throughout the ceremony. She mustn’t be a fussy boppli.” Frannie admired her.
“She’s not. She doesn’t cry unless she’s hungry or needs to be changed,” Rachael said.
Caleb liked how this conversation was going. Rachael must’ve made more progress with Frannie than he’d expected. “I hope you won’t let Helena ruin your day. She’s gone, and this day is about you and Luke.”
“Danki for asking her to leave. I shouldn’t have let my temper flare. Yes. Nothing can ruin my wedding day. Luke becoming my husband is all I’ll concentrate on.” Frannie handed Marie back to Rachael. She took Lily and balanced her on her hip. “Let’s feed you. Enjoy the day. Danki for kumming.”
Caleb waited until Frannie was out of earshot. “I’m impressed. She must’ve pondered what you said after your meeting and took your words to heart.”
“She recovered from Helena showing herself here much faster than I would’ve anticipated. I’m relieved for her and Luke. This day will be a special memory, and it’s best if she doesn’t allow Helena to destroy it. I’m proud of her.” Rachael headed to the food table. “I’m hungry.”
“Me too.” Caleb went with her.
He wanted Lily and Marie to grow close as they grew up. Lily was two years older and like a big schweschder. He wasn’t confident Frannie would allow this, but Rachael had made an impact on her the day before, and the future for their families to blend well had changed. Another reason he loved Rachael.
Caleb enjoyed his time with Rachael and their friends at the wedding, and then Joseph, Mamm, and Rachael headed home, and he went to his haus. He secured his mare and then got ready for bed. He was ready for their counseling session on Thursday and then their wedding.
* * *
Thursday evening, Bishop Fisher waved Caleb and Rachael inside his haus. “Make yourselves comfortable. I have warm tea or coffee. Which would you prefer?”
They both declined.
Bishop Fisher offered a prayer before their counseling session. “Have you discussed finances?”
“Yes. I’ll make the money and Rachael will spend it,” he teased.
“What? I’m not a spendthrift.” She chuckled. She loved their fun banter.
Bishop Fisher laughed. “This session will be enjoyable with you two. Will you discuss all your purchases with her, Caleb?”
“Yes. We communicate well most of the time.”
“I agree. I enjoy our discussions on everything. I trust Caleb to manage our money and to be the head of the haus.” She didn’t have any doubts about Caleb, and she was sure they’d agree on most things. Anything they disagreed on, she was sure they could compromise.
Bishop Fisher emphasized God being first in their daily lives and putting each other’s needs before their own and being good parents to Marie. “You’ve answered my questions. I’m eager to marry you in five days. Are you ready?”
They both nodded.
“Danki, Bishop Fisher,” Caleb said.
They bid him farewell and retrieved their buggy.
“We’ve had one major hiccup in our courtship. You being stubborn and thinking you knew what was best for me.”
“I was convinced I was being selfless and I was being selfish. But I came to my senses, and soon my name will change to Rachael Yutzy. I’m anxious for us to marry and live in the same haus. I’m jealous Frannie and Luke got married before us. It’s difficult waiting for our wedding day. Marie needs her daed.” Rachael grinned and cradled her close.
“I couldn’t agree more.” He squeezed her arm.
* * *
Rachael woke on June 29, her wedding day. One week after Luke and Frannie’s wedding. She didn’t mind their weddings were close. She chuckled. She doubted Frannie would want to celebrate their close anniversary dates in the future together. She wouldn’t be opposed. What a whirlwind these last couple of weeks had been. She couldn’t be happier. She loved Marie, but she also missed Adelaide. She had planned to grow the bond she and Adelaide had created into a close friendship. She would’ve taken the risk to visit her as often as she could. She admired Marie in her cradle. “I wish your mamm could be with us.”
Mamm rapped on the door and came in already dressed for the ceremony. She wore an apron over her dress. “I’m wearing this apron to avoid any stains before the ceremony. I’ll take my precious little grossdochder so you can get dressed. Most of the women will arrive early with their food dishes. The benches and tables are all arranged. The weather is cooperating. The clouds are puffy white, and the sun is shining bright. Let’s take a minute and pray together.” She held hands with Rachael and offered a prayer for God to bless their unions, the day, and their future lives.
“Danki, Mamm.” Rachael passed her a wrapped package. “I made this for you.”
Mamm opened it. “This tablecloth with embroidered daisies along the edges is beautiful. You know how I love daisies.”
“I planned for you to open it after the wedding, but I couldn’t wait.” She blushed.
Mamm held up her forefinger, left, and returned moments later with a gift. “Here’s yours.”
Rachael opened the package. “You made us a wedding quilt. I will treasure it. Caleb will too.” She hugged the quilt to her chest.
“I’m not much of a quilter, but I was on a mission. I had it in my head it would be what you’d love most.”
“I like it more because you don’t usually make quilts. I will treasure this. Danki.” She hugged her. “Let’s dress me.”
Mamm waited for her to change out of her bedclothes, and then she dropped the wedding dress over Rachael’s head. She arranged the short cape over her shoulders. “Sit. I’ll brush your hair.”
Rachael handed her the brush. Mamm had brushed her hair often when she was a little girl. She’d leave her home and live with Caleb. Her heart leaped with joy over this, but she had a pang of sadness at leaving her childhood home. “I’ll miss you and all the things you do for me.”
“I’ll miss you too.” Mamm’s eyes filled with tears. “We’ll visit each other often.”
Rachael loved Joseph. They’d built a close friendship. No one would ever replace her daed in her heart, but she couldn’t ask for a better stepdaed. He’d been instrumental in bringing Marie into their lives by introducing her to Adelaide. Her mamm had been happy since she’d met Joseph. They’d both found love with two incredible men. They’d always share this special day each year together.
The hours passed fast, and before she knew it, she stood with Caleb and her mamm and Joseph in front of their friends.
Bishop Fisher had delivered a message about God having a plan for their lives, and he’d picked some of her favorite hymns to sing and offered the most heartfelt prayers. Maybe everything flowed together as it should because it was her special day.
“I do.” Caleb smiled at her.
They said their vows, and Bishop Fisher gestured to each couple. “I pronounce them married!”
Caleb clasped her hand and led her away from their friends and family, picked her up, and twirled her around. “I had to have you for a minute to myself. I love you so much, Rachael Yutzy! And I have a surprise wedding gift for you. You’ll have to wait until we get home to open it.” He set her feet on the ground.
Rachael gave him her best puppy-dog eyes and tilted her head. “Please tell me.”
He kissed her forehead. “I’m terrible at keeping secrets anyway. It’s a hope chest. I made it for you.”
“What a perfect gift! Danki, Caleb.” She grinned. “And I made you a patchwork quilt to use as you wish. I picture you using it to cover your lap in your favorite chair in the winter.”
“I’ll love it.” Caleb smiled.
Rachael glanced at Joseph and Mamm. She pressed a hand to her heart as her friends gathered around them. She reflected on the last year. She’d had no idea she’d be where she stood today, happily married to her true love, Caleb, and with a boppli to raise, or that her mamm would find love again. She had kumme to love Joseph as a stepdaed. She praised and thanked God and gave God all the glory for making all her dreams kumme true.