Chapter 3
Rachael drove to the Waglers’ home Monday evening. She’d loved getting to speak with Caleb today. She wished she was with him this evening, but she wanted to honor Nathan’s request to speak with her. She pulled into Nathan’s lane. He kept his property in excellent shape, with his porch always swept, kept his garden free of weeds, and had the straightest rows of vegetables in his garden. The sun was warm and the sky was clear.
Joy greeted her outside. “Yay! You’re here. Daed made me a swing and tied it to the big oak tree. I love it. Do you want me to push you on the swing?”
She hugged Joy. “Maybe later. I’m hungry, aren’t you?”
Joy rubbed her stomach. “I am too.”
Rachael clasped Joy’s hand. “What should we put together for supper?”
“You’re not cooking. Daed made beef stew and biscuits.” Joy led her into the haus.
She inhaled the beef aroma. This was the second time Nathan had cooked for them.
Thad pulled out her chair from the rectangular maple table. “You’re here at the right time. Supper is almost finished. You sit.”
Joy giggled as she sat across from Rachael. “We made butter cookies for dessert.”
“How was your day?” Nathan put the pot of stew on the already set table.
“There was an auction in town. Many of those attending stopped into the bakery after it was over, so we had a steady stream of customers later in the morning. It was a busy and successful day for us.” Rachael reached for Nathan’s bowl. “I’ll serve the stew for us.”
“No. Please stay seated. Let us spoil you this evening for a change.” He stood, gazed into her eyes, and smiled, then filled each bowl.
“I poured water in the glasses.” Thad grinned, sitting ramrod straight.
She suspected Nathan’s pampering was to show his interest in her. Why the change? She hadn’t known what to expect from Nathan this evening after the way he seemed tense on Sunday. She found all this awkward, but she didn’t want to appear ungrateful. “You’ve all done an outstanding job. Nathan, the food is delicious. How did you have time to cook and bake today?”
“I got up earlier than usual, and the kinner pitched in to help me after school. Tonight is special.” He reached for her hand.
She gave him a weak smile. “Danki.” She moved her hand away.
Nathan was being attentive and he had gone out of his way to make this evening special for her. Had he overcome his grief for Katherine?
Joy drank half her water. “I like Peter, but Charity told me they’re getting married when they’re sixteen.”
“Was she angry with you?” Rachael raised her brows.
Magdelena’s little schweschder had planned to marry Peter for a while. Those two were inseparable.
Joy shook her head. “No. I like Charity, so I said she could have him.”
Thad rolled his eyes. “You’re too young to have a beau.”
Joy huffed. “I am not. I’ll have a beau if I want to.”
“Don’t argue.” Nathan shook his head. “Thad’s right. You don’t need to worry about having a suitor. Enjoy your friends.”
“Daed has a new friend. Her name’s Ava. She brought a custard pie. She was here when I came home from school.” Joy shrugged her shoulders. “She wanted to stay and make supper for us, but Daed told her we had plans. You wouldn’t have cared if she stayed, would you?”
“No. Not at all. Ava is a superb cook, and she’s a jolly girl to be around.” She liked Ava Raber for Nathan and the kinner. She’d been a widow for a year. She was pretty, with her reddish-brown hair and freckles sprinkled across her nose. Ava didn’t have kinner, and she was sure Ava would love Joy and Thad. She hoped Nathan wouldn’t discount Ava. It would make her friendship with Nathan easier as she and Caleb courted.
Nathan carried his plate to the sink. “Who wants pie?”
“I do.” Thad raised his hand.
“Cookie for me.” Joy handed her plate to Thad to take to the sink with his.
“Pie for me.” Rachael rose. “I’ll help you.”
“No. Relax. Let me serve you.” Nathan cut the pie and served it. He passed Joy two sugar cookies and grabbed two more for himself.
“Ava sure can bake. This pie is scrumptious.” Rachael forked another bite. “You don’t care for custard pie, Nathan?”
“I like it, but not better than sugar cookies.” He broke his cookie in half and enjoyed a corner of it.
“Will you work a puzzle with Thad and me before you go home?” Joy swiped crumbs from her mouth with the back of her hand.
“Use your napkin, Joy.” Nathan lowered his chin and scowled at her.
“Sorry.” Joy picked up her napkin and wiped her lips.
“Rachael and I need some grown-up time. You and Thad can work the puzzle.” Nathan stacked the dessert plates and forks. “Kinner, you both are excused.”
Joy pouted and followed Thad to the living room.
“The water on the stove should be the right temperature for doing dishes. We can let them soak and I can wash them later. Let’s go to the sitting room, away from the kinner.”
Rachael grabbed a dish towel hanging on a metal hook by the sink. “I insist we wash and dry these dishes. With the two of us, we can have them back in the cabinets where they belong in no time.”
“You drive a hard bargain.” Nathan washed, and she dried the dishes. “Rachael, I’ve gotten used to our routine. The nights you weren’t here, I missed you.”
“We’ve become close friends. I enjoy my time with you and the kinner. I was glad to help out with chores and the kinner after Katherine’s passing.”
He took the dish towel from her hands and set it on the counter and then clasped her hand and led her to the sitting room. He faced her and put his hands on her shoulders. “I don’t want to lose you to another man. Rachael, I’d like to court you.”
Rachael tensed. She didn’t want to hurt his feelings, but he was too late. She had her sights set on Caleb. Before Caleb, she might have considered him with the hope she’d fall in love with him over time. But she wanted to fall in love again, like she had with John, her fiancé, before he died. With Caleb, she was already headed in that direction. “Nathan, I care for you and the kinner. You, Joy, and Thad filled a void in my life after Katherine passed. But why now?”
“It took you breaking our routine to make me kumme to my senses. I have taken you for granted. I cooked supper to show you I care for you, and I’m ready to take you to a restaurant, on buggy rides, on long walks, and wherever else you would like to go while we court. I’ll always love Katherine, but it’s time for me to consider the future. Please, Rachael, will you allow me to court you?”
She wrenched her gaze from his. His sincerity was without question, but she had to be true to herself. “You’re a wonderful daed and a man I admire. I didn’t allow myself to fall for you, because you were grieving your fraa’s death. I wasn’t sure you’d ever be ready to consider courting again or even if you and I would fall in love. Caleb and I are interested in each other. I’ve accepted his invitation to court. I’m sorry, Nathan.”
He dropped his hands to his sides. “Caleb’s new in town. It’s too soon.”
“It’s not too soon. We have a connection, a spark I can’t explain.” She’d said too much. She didn’t need to defend her courtship with Caleb to him. She took a deep breath. She didn’t want to leave tonight with Nathan upset with her. She cared about him as a friend.
Nathan looked at the ceiling and back at her. “I’m frustrated with myself for waiting to have this conversation. I assumed you’d always be here. How arrogant of me. It’s early in your courtship with Caleb to know what the future will bring. I’ll wait for you. Until you agree to marry him, I have a chance.”
Rachael clasped her hands tight in front of her. “Please don’t wait on me. You and the kinner would benefit from having a wonderful woman like Ava in your lives. She loves kinner, and she didn’t have a chance to have her own. She and her husband were only married for a short time.”
His sad eyes gazed into hers. “There is no one else but you for me. I care about you and I’m comfortable around you. It will be worth it. I’m patient.”
She cared for him and didn’t want him to remain a widower. She had to distance herself from them to be fair to Caleb. But she could still watch Joy and Thad for him if the need arose. “If you need someone to care for Joy and Thad, Mamm or I will be happy to oblige.”
“Danki. We should tell the kinner together why our routine is changing.”
She nodded and headed with him to the living room, where the kinner were working their puzzle. She dreaded telling Joy and Thad she wouldn’t be there for them. She sat on the floor with them. “You’re doing a great job fitting the puzzle pieces together. Can you give me your full attention for a couple of minutes?”
Joy and Thad nodded as they gazed at her.
“I love you both very much, and I enjoy my time with you. I told your daed Mamm or I will care for you at our haus when you need us.”
“I don’t understand. You kumme here after you’re off work to play with us. Are you still kumming to our haus as usual?” Joy wrinkled her nose.
“No. I have a new beau, Caleb. He and I are courting and getting better acquainted. You met him at yesterday’s service. He’s asked me to spend more time with him.” She fidgeted her hands. This was as difficult as she’d expected. “We’ll talk at Sunday services, and you can kumme visit me.”
Thad crossed his arms. “Why don’t you like our daed? I asked him if he liked you and he said yes. He made supper for you. Tell Caleb you don’t have time for him.”
Nathan put his hand on Thad’s shoulder. “No, son. This is my fault. I didn’t tell Rachael of my interest in her earlier. We have to accept this. Rachael has a right to court whoever she chooses. It doesn’t mean she doesn’t love you and Joy.”
Joy stood with her hands on her hips. “I’ll tell Caleb to leave you alone. I told him you belong to us. Why won’t he listen?”
“She’s right. Caleb should find another girl to court.” Thad glared at her.
Rachael’s throat dried. “This isn’t Caleb’s fault. I like him, and I agreed to court him. It’s my decision too. Please be kind to him. You can visit me anytime I’m home. Please don’t be angry with me.” She held out her arms.
Thad stomped past her. “I’m going to my room.”
Joy followed him. “Me too.”
“Kinner, you’re being rude. Return at once and hug Rachael.” Nathan scowled.
They ran to their rooms and shut their doors.
Nathan took steps to the hallway.
Rachael grasped his arm. “Don’t force them to say goodbye. This is a big change for them, and they need time to adjust. I dislike making them or you sad.” She would miss their regular routine. They’d been her chance to be a mamm. She hadn’t told Caleb her secret. She didn’t like talking about it with anyone, and she wouldn’t tell Caleb until she had to. It was a big risk, and she wanted to have as much time as possible with him. She was afraid her secret would be reason enough for him to end their courtship. She couldn’t face it right now.
* * *
Caleb worked alongside Stephen to sow oats and seed all day. He wondered how this evening went with Nathan and Rachael. He should concentrate on Stephen right now. He’d find out what happened at Nathan’s tomorrow. He followed his bruder to the water pump, where they took turns washing their hands. They should’ve had supper two hours ago, but neither one had wanted to stop what they were doing.
“I’m hungry. How about you?”
Stephen’s shoulders slumped, and he dragged his feet to the front door. “I’m bushed and famished. I hope Frannie has something prepared. I don’t have the energy to cook.”
Caleb patted him on the back. “If she doesn’t have something ready for us, I’ll rustle up some sandwiches.”
“You boys are late.” Frannie sat in her favorite maple chair with her feet propped up on a cushioned, four-legged stool. “You’ll have to fetch yourselves supper. We’ve got sliced ham and some potato soup left over from Saturday. I craved oatmeal cookies, so I made some. You can each have two.”
“Is Lily asleep?” Stephen faced her.
“Yes. Please keep your voices down. I’m comfortable and relishing my peace and quiet.” She directed her gaze from him to the knitting needles in her hands, as if to dismiss him.
Caleb bit his tongue. She made cookies and then always told them how many they could have, so she’d have plenty for herself to snack on as she wished. He wouldn’t cause an argument, but he came close to telling her how tired he was of her selfishness and laziness. She could’ve made time to fix them supper. He and Stephen weren’t kinner. They didn’t need her to tell them how many cookies they were allowed. She was ridiculous. “Stephen, follow me to the kitchen and take a seat.”
Stephen went ahead of him to the kitchen and opened a cabinet to remove plates. “I’ll set the table.”
Caleb grasped his arm. “Please rest. Pull out a chair and put your feet up.” He put the soup on to warm.
His bruder’s eyes had dark circles under them, and he was pale. He was afraid Stephen would faint. His bruder had to stop every few minutes while they were working today. Caleb slathered peach jam on ham sandwiches and sliced them in half, and then he poured the warmed potato soup into two bowls.
“Danki. I’ll pray a blessing to God for the food.” Stephen recited the prayer, then raised his head. “Danki for not scolding Frannie. Your pinched lips told me you were ready to tell her what was on your mind, and it didn’t appear it would be polite.”
Caleb lowered his voice. “I won’t lie. I don’t have the patience you have with her. She’s arrogant and thinks only of herself. How do you put up with her? Aren’t you frustrated with her bossy and lazy attitude?” He didn’t understand how Frannie could ignore her husband’s obvious weakness and shortness of breath. She didn’t express any concern or show of support.
“We’ve had this conversation many times. She’s not the ideal fraa, but I love her. I don’t care if the laundry or dishes pile up. She or I will get these chores done eventually. You have made sure that doesn’t happen by pitching in and helping to get those things done. I appreciate all the work you’ve done inside and outside, including caring for Lily often. My gratitude is more than I can put into words.”
“I’m not asking for your praise. You should express to her that you want her to cook, clean, and assist with chores outside.” Caleb snapped his fingers. “I forgot the water.” He rose and poured them each a glass of water. “I’ve held my tongue long enough. I will discuss my concerns with her.”
“No. Please. Let it go. She made cookies and took care of Lily.” He drank half his water. “Anything new with you and Rachael?”
Caleb wouldn’t badger him anymore tonight about Frannie. He didn’t want to upset his bruder. “She’s been helping Nathan Wagler and his kinner since his fraa died. Nathan asked her to have supper, saying he needed to talk to her.”
“Do you suppose he’s interested in courting her?” Nathan dipped his spoon in his soup.
“I hope not, but I wouldn’t be surprised if he asked to court her. He was cordial, but he wouldn’t engage in conversation with me. His two kinner, Joy and Thad, are adorable. I’m afraid Rachael may be swayed to reconsider our courtship due to being close to them. We haven’t known each other long, and she’s been with them for the past eight months.” He loved his niece, Lily. After having lived with his bruder, he had gotten close to the boppli. Joy and Thad loved Rachael, and she loved them. They could have a strong hold on her heart.
“Nathan has waited too long. You came along and upset the applecart, and he must’ve realized he cared for her. She can have the kinner over to her place once in a while, and she’ll speak with them at Sunday services. I doubt they’ll have any influence on her decision to court you.”
Caleb prayed he was right. She did say she would tell Nathan about their courtship. He should trust her and push any doubt out of his mind. “Danki for your encouragement. On another subject, please let me take you to Dr. Harrison. Stephen, please, do it for me and my peace of mind.”
Frannie entered the room. “Don’t overreact, Caleb. Stephen doesn’t have the stamina you do. It doesn’t mean he’s sick.”
“How would you know? You’re not with him working in the garden, barn, or fields. Although it’s hard to miss how exhausted he is when we sit down for meals or for a break in the day. But you’re too busy with what you want to do to notice. Furthermore, it’s appalling you don’t cook for us after all we do to manage the inside and outside chores.” He avoided looking at Stephen and centered his gaze on Frannie.
“How dare you! I have a boppli who demands my attention. I haven’t asked you to wash or fold laundry or wash and dry dishes or any of the other chores you’ve taken upon yourself.” She glowered at him.
“We couldn’t walk through this haus or sit on the furniture if I didn’t take care of those things. Lily takes naps, and you have ample time while she’s playing in the playpen or sleeping to take care of the inside chores and cook. Furthermore, the limitations you put on desserts for Stephen and me is outlandish.” He wouldn’t cease telling her what he thought until he’d listed it all. He’d held in his frustration long enough. He couldn’t let it go, not even for Stephen.
“Stephen, say something. I shouldn’t have to take this scolding from your bruder. It’s rude. He’s in our haus.” Frannie put her hand on her husband’s shoulder.
“Frannie, this haus is as much Caleb’s as ours.” He shifted to Caleb. “Bruder, please, calm down. Don’t say anymore, for my sake.” Stephen looked at him with pleading eyes.
He held up his palms. “I’m done.” He picked up the dishes from the table.
Frannie took them from him. “I’ll wash and dry the dishes. There aren’t many. You and Stephen can go to the living room.”
Had he gotten through to her? She must’ve felt a little guilt. It would, no doubt, be short-lived, like the other times he’d made subtle remarks to her, but he’d take it.
Frannie kept her focus on the dishes and remained quiet. She usually had something to say, but he supposed she kept silent now for fear he’d cease doing inside chores, and she’d didn’t want him to stop helping her. He followed Stephen to the living room. “She needed to hear what I had to say.”
“I understand.” Stephen devoured the cookies, then rested his head against the high back of his chair. He soon fell asleep.
Caleb listened to his bruder’s rhythmic, low snore. Stephen cleaned his plate at most meals, but he didn’t appear to gain weight. Maybe it was the way his body worked, but he doubted it. Short of dragging his bruder by force to the doctor, there was nothing more he could do. He’d have to wait until Stephen was ready to face his problem.
His mind drifted to Rachael. She had stolen his heart in a short time. His attraction to her kept growing. She had a jovial laugh, and he missed her when they weren’t together. He was anxious to speak with her about what had happened at the Waglers’ when he visited the bakery and made plans with her. He woke Stephen and helped him to bed, and then he went to his room.
That night, he tossed and turned as rain pelted the rooftop. Lightning flashed near the haus and lit up his room while several loud booms shook the building.
It matched the worry consuming him about his bruder, Frannie, and his future with Rachael.
* * *
Tuesday morning, Caleb fixed biscuits and fried eggs. Bacon sizzled in the skillet. He had changed Lily’s nappy and set her in her high chair.
“Unkie.” She held out a corner of her egg to him.
“No. Danki. You put the egg in your mouth.” Caleb was happy Lily was generous, unlike her mamm and more like her daed.
Frannie came in the kitchen, rubbing her eyes. She kissed Lily’s forehead. “You’re up early, Caleb. I’m surprised to find Lily in her high chair.”
“I woke earlier than usual, and she was playing with her rattle in bed. She grinned and raised her arms to me, and I couldn’t resist her. She’s keeping me company. Breakfast is ready.” Caleb was glad she didn’t mention their argument last night. He wanted to put it behind them. He’d had guilt over his outburst after Stephen had asked him not to confront Frannie. He should’ve spoken to her in private. But maybe she’d listened to him and would do her share of the work around the haus.
“You already have the coffee made and table set. You didn’t have to do all this.” Frannie forked a pancake and put it on a plate for Lily. She buttered it and poured syrup on it. She then cut it in pieces for her dochder. She fixed herself a pancake the same way she’d prepared Lily’s. “These are delicious, Caleb.”
Stephen padded into the kitchen, yawned, and took a seat. “I love waking up to the aroma of bacon. Pancakes and eggs too. What a treat.”
Frannie prepared a plate for Stephen and poured him a mug of coffee. “How are you feeling?”
“I slept well. I’m at my best in the mornings. As the day moves forward is when I lose my energy faster than I should. But no worries. I’m fine.” Stephen sipped his coffee.
Caleb poured milk in Lily’s tin cup. She grasped it with her chubby fingers and drank it all. She grinned with a white mustache above her lip. “More.”
He poured her another half cup and chuckled. “She finished her pancake and I haven’t started on mine. She must’ve been hungry.”
“Uncle Caleb’s pancakes are the best. Right, Lily?” Frannie tore another pancake into pieces for her dochder.
Stephen finished half of his three stacked pancakes and pushed the plate aside. “I’ve had all I can handle of the pancakes. Danki, Caleb. You’re a good cook.”
“My pleasure.” Caleb didn’t know how Stephen could keep such an even temperament. His bruder had always been the more patient of the two. But Stephen was being too tolerant of Frannie’s bad behavior. He wouldn’t apologize for what he’d said to her. “I’m going to town.”
Stephen nodded.
“I’ll take care of the kitchen.” Frannie smiled at him.
Caleb nodded. It was the least she could do. He bit the inside of his cheek. He wouldn’t ruin the goodwill he had made this morning with her. “I’ll not be long.” Caleb kissed Lily’s forehead and left. He planned to speak with Rachael before the bakery opened to customers. He should wait until after work, but he couldn’t bear the anxiety. He parked the buggy in front of the bakeshop and went inside to the kitchen. “You left the door open, so I let myself in.”
“I always forget to lock it.” Magdelena smiled. “I’m glad I forgot this morning, since you came to visit us.”
“What brings you here so early?” Rachael pinched the piecrust she’d set in her pan.
“Can I have a couple of minutes of your time in private?” Caleb gazed into her beautiful emerald eyes.
“Sure. I won’t be long, Magdelena.”
“Take your time.” Magdelena slid a tray of molasses cookie dough balls into the oven.
Rachael led him to the baked goods display case in the café part of the bakery. “Would you like anything?”
“I had a big breakfast and too much coffee. Danki. I’m curious as to how your evening went with Nathan.” Caleb’s stomach tightened.
She frowned, and then her gaze met his. “He asked me to court with him, and I told him in a polite way I wasn’t interested. He’s cooked the last two meals we’ve had together, and I thought he made them to show his appreciation of what I’d done for them the last eight months. I didn’t realize he wanted to make a change from friendship to courtship.”
“How did he take your rejection?” Caleb wanted to know everything about her evening with Nathan and his kinner. He hoped Nathan wouldn’t pursue her to try to change her mind.
“Not well. He blames himself for not making his wishes known before now. I have an inkling you entering my life was what prompted him to ask me to court. I’m not sure how much longer we would’ve kept our routine, with my helping out at his haus, before he would’ve suggested anything more serious than friendship.”
“How did the kinner take the news?” Caleb was afraid she’d have a harder time parting from them on a regular basis than she would Nathan.
“They were upset. I will miss them the most. I offered to care for them if Nathan needs me to watch them after work sometimes. I’m unsure whether it would be a good idea. Ava Raber is a widow who came to their haus with a pie. The kinner mentioned her. I turned twenty-five about a month ago, and she and I share the same birthdate, March twentieth. I suggested he get to know her, and he said he’d rather wait for me.”
“Wait for what? We’re courting with the hope we’ll plan a wedding sometime in the future. Why would he wait? I don’t understand what he means.” Caleb didn’t want Nathan to keep fighting for Rachael’s heart.
“He doesn’t want to show interest in another woman until we marry. I told him not to wait. My prayer is Ava will win him over with her desserts and finding excuses to talk to him. They would make a perfect match.”
“I’ll pray Ava wins Nathan over too. I’m happy you chose me.” He reached for her hand.
“Of course, I chose you. Why don’t you kumme over tonight after work?” Rachael kept her hand under his.
“Let me make sure Stephen has supper and then I’ll be over by six.” Caleb rose. “I shouldn’t keep you too long from your baking.”
“Isn’t Frannie cooking supper?” Rachael quirked her brow.
“We never know from one night to the next. She cooks breakfast and dinner, but not always supper. I scolded her last night when she didn’t have something prepared for us. We’d worked later than usual and we were exhausted. She told us what food was available and left us to fend for ourselves. I fixed sandwiches and warmed soup. I told her what I thought until she whined to Stephen to take up for her. She did wash, dry, and put away the dishes. I was sick and tired of her bossy, selfish, and lazy attitude.”
“Even if you don’t agree with Frannie’s ways, don’t argue with her. Stephen is in the middle and it’s an awkward place for him. As long as he’s accepted her ways, go along with it. I’m not saying I agree with her, but it’s Stephen who matters.”
“It’s easier said than done when I’m right there. Stephen would’ve gone to bed hungry if I hadn’t made sandwiches. I worry about his health. He refuses to go to the doctor and insists he’s fine. However, you’re right. I have to let go of my frustration with her. It does upset him when she and I argue.” Caleb respected and wilkomed her advice. “Danki for letting me bend your ear about Frannie. I should get to work.” He smiled. “I’m looking forward to our time together this evening.”
Rachael walked with him to the door. “I am too.”
He brushed his hand against hers and let his gaze linger on her eyes, and then he left. When he arrived home, he found Stephen seeding hay. He was relieved Stephen had the energy. It gave him a glimmer of hope Stephen was feeling better.
Caleb took care of his horse and gave the barn a good and thorough cleaning. He scraped manure and put fresh bedding in the stalls and tightened the latches on each one. He liked keeping the barn as clean as possible to eliminate flies and prevent animal diseases.
At five, Stephen joined him in the barn and plopped down on an old, weathered chair. “You left early this morning.”
Caleb studied Stephen. His bruder had color in his cheeks and he appeared more energetic. “I had something to ask Rachael before the bakery opened.”
“I’m surprised you wouldn’t wait until this evening, when she’s at home.” Stephen cocked his head. “Must have been important.”
“You wouldn’t call me patient. I was anxious to find out what happened last evening when Rachael went to Nathan’s. We haven’t known each other long, and I was afraid their history and her fondness for his kinner might have enticed her to change her mind about me. She told me Nathan did ask to court her and then said he’ll wait until we are married to give up on her. She declined and told him not to wait on her.”
“You’re in love with her, aren’t you? Don’t rush this relationship. Marriage is forever.”
Caleb didn’t miss the split-second, rueful expression on his bruder’s face.
“It sounds foolish, but I’d marry her tomorrow. I can’t imagine anything will ever change my mind. I realize she may need time to get to know me.” Caleb couldn’t explain the deep connection he felt for her.
She occupied his mind most of the time. He realized most of their friends and family might have doubts, thinking they were rushing things, but he was sure about her. He couldn’t explain it, but he knew she was the one for him.
“Yes. Enjoy the courtship.” Stephen rose. “Let’s go inside the haus and have supper. I’m hungry.”
Caleb hoped Frannie had prepared food. He didn’t want Stephen to snack and not have a healthy meal. As they walked to the porch, Stephen’s breathing was heavy. “Do you want to stop for a minute?”
Stephen nodded and put his hand against the oak tree to brace himself. “I must’ve overdone it in the field today.”
Caleb stood beside his bruder and waited for him to catch his breath.
“I’m all right.” Stephen began walking again.
They went inside the haus and to the kitchen.
Frannie had her cooking apron on, the table was set, and ham and beans and corn bread were on the table. “You’re right on time. I was about to call out to you to kumme in and have supper.”
Caleb smiled. He didn’t know what to expect from her from day to day. Some days she was chipper and cooked and cleaned. Other days, she didn’t lift a finger except to take care of Lily. He was thankful she’d cooked. His bruder loved ham and beans. “Frannie, I’m sorry to miss this wonderful food, but Rachael invited me to her haus this evening.”
Frannie pinched her lips and turned her back on him.
Stephen kissed Lily on the back of her hand. “Give her our best wishes and have a great time.”
He tousled Lily’s soft, dark brown hair. “I will.”
Frannie poured water into Stephen’s glass. “Be quiet when you return. I wouldn’t want you to wake Lily.”
“Will do.” Caleb struggled not to lash out at her again. He put Frannie out of his mind, left, and drove the short distance to Rachael’s haus. He parked next to another buggy as Joseph Ramer climbed out. He must be here for supper too. “Greetings.”
“Here for supper?” Joseph waited while Caleb tied his mare to the hitching post.
“I am.” He walked with Joseph to the front door.
Eleanor greeted them and led them to the living room. “Make yourselves comfortable. Rachael’s in the kitchen and we’re almost ready to put the chicken and rice casserole on the table.”
“Sounds wonderful. Here’s a little gift for you.” Joseph handed Eleanor a small package.
She grinned at Joseph. “How sweet of you. Danki. Should I open it now?”
“You’re busy. You can open it later.” Joseph chose a chair across from Caleb.
“I’m glad you’re both here. Caleb, I’ll tell Rachael you’re here. She’s slicing bread at the moment. I’m going to help her set the food on the table and then we’ll be ready.” She left the room.
Caleb was curious about what Joseph gave Eleanor. Maybe he should’ve brought Rachael something. “Do you live far from here?”
Joseph shook his head. “About five minutes, I’d guess. How about you?”
“Not far at all. I’m living with my bruder, Stephen, and his family. Do you have kinner?” He didn’t remember Rachael mentioning anything about Joseph having family here.
“I had a son, David. He died about five years ago in his sleep. The doctor was puzzled as to why. My fraa, Edwina, was never the same after we lost him. I believe she died of a broken heart. We missed him terribly. I still do.” Joseph cleared his throat.
Caleb’s stomach clenched at Joseph’s story. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to bring up sad memories for you. I can’t imagine how difficult your fraa and son’s deaths must’ve been.” Caleb felt sorry for the man.
“Eleanor has brought a lot of joy into my life. She’s bringing me much happiness just being around her.” Joseph grinned. His happy expression put Caleb at ease.
Eleanor entered the living room. “Gentlemen, you may take chairs at the table.”
Rachael followed her and smiled at Caleb. “I’m sorry I didn’t greet you before now. I had too many things going on at once to leave the kitchen.”
“I understand.” He took a deep breath. “The scent of warm bread is the best.”
They all sat down at the table.
“And we have apple butter.” Rachael put a small dish of it near him.
“Perfect.” Caleb put a spoonful on his plate and passed the dish to Joseph.
“I can’t resist apple butter.” Joseph accepted the dish. “Rachael and Eleanor, you’ve outdone yourselves.”
“Danki.” Rachael’s cheeks reddened. “How are you, Joseph? I apologize for not greeting you earlier.”
“No need. I’m happy since your mamm and I have been getting better acquainted.” He exchanged an endearing look with Eleanor. “I appreciate being here and sharing this delicious food with all of you. Shall we bow our heads for prayer?”
Caleb nodded.
Joseph offered a prayer to God for the food, and then they passed the dishes around until their plates were filled. “How is everything at the bakery, Rachael?”
“Magdelena and I have kept up with the baking and waiting on customers since Maryann quit. I love working there. It’s more of a hobby than a job.”
Caleb observed Rachael. She didn’t look at Joseph and she wasn’t her bubbly self. She must still not be comfortable with her mamm’s interest in Joseph. He’d ask her later.
Eleanor addressed Caleb. “Rachael said you’re concerned about your bruder’s health. How is he?”
“Danki for asking. He had a better day than most today. He planted hayseed and had the cows out to graze in the pasture. He seemed to have more energy, but around five, he had trouble catching his breath. He’s stubborn and won’t go to the doctor. He insists he’s fine, but I don’t believe him. I worry about him.”
Frannie was no help. She didn’t seem concerned. It was easier for her to ignore problems. He had to keep those thoughts to himself. He shouldn’t complain about her here.
“I’ll keep your bruder in my prayers,” Eleanor said.
“I will too.” Joseph gave Caleb an empathetic smile. “Rachael and Caleb, please join Eleanor and me for a stroll through the market Friday evening. They’ll have picnic tables available, and we can buy food after we’ve shopped.”
“I haven’t been to the event. What do the vendors have for sale?” Caleb had read an advertisement for the event, but he had forgotten about it. He was glad Joseph mentioned it. What a fun thing to do with their ladies.
Joseph grinned. “They’re locals who have farms or other businesses. Most have hobbies on the side, and this gives them an opportunity to sell anything they don’t use or things they’ve made. There are dry goods, cooking utensils, pots, pans, tools, yarn, fabric, clothes, toys, potato boxes, hope chests, and more for reasonable prices. I don’t always buy something, but it’s fun to browse.”
Caleb glanced at Rachael. She hadn’t said a word. “Rachael, would you like to go?”
She focused on buttering her bread. “I’m not sure how long I’ll be at the bakery on Friday. It’s usually our busiest day. May we discuss it later?”
Something was troubling her. “Sure.” Caleb wouldn’t press her in front of her mamm and Joseph.
Eleanor stood and took her plate to the sink. “Ready for dessert? Rachael brought home lemon bars.”
“I’d love two.” Caleb gave Eleanor an impish grin. “They’re one of my favorites.”
“One for me. Danki.” Joseph patted his stomach. “It’s all I have room for.”
Rachael carried the rest of the dirty dishes to the sink, her limp more pronounced. “I’m going to pass on dessert.” She checked the water on the stove she’d had heating for the dishes.
Caleb frowned. Was she tired? Was she ill? It wasn’t like her to be unsociable.
Eleanor served dessert and ignored Rachael. “Enjoy.”
Caleb hurried to clean his plate. He joined Rachael, washing the dishes, and grabbed a dish towel from the counter. “I’ll dry. Eleanor and Joseph, we’ll take care of the kitchen if you’d like to enjoy the sunset happening soon.”
“Danki, Caleb. We’ll take you up on the suggestion.” Eleanor lifted her plate. “Let’s take our lemon bars to the back porch. We’ll finish our dessert, and then I’ll open your present. I left it on the end table by my chair in the living room.”
“Danki to you both. I’ve enjoyed our time together.” Joseph smiled at them.
Rachael gave him a weak smile and nodded.
“I have too.” Caleb patted Joseph on the back.
Eleanor and Joseph left them alone.
“Are you all right?” Caleb accepted a platter she’d washed.
“Yes. Why?” Rachael didn’t meet his gaze.
“You’re quiet and your limp is more noticeable tonight. Are you in pain?” He didn’t want to mention her limp, but he’d noticed it was better some days than others. He was worried about her.
“I’m tired, but my leg isn’t the problem. I’m shocked Mamm is interested in Joseph. It’s difficult to see her with a man other than Daed.” Rachael scrubbed a plate she’d already washed.
Caleb reached for the plate, set it aside, and held her wet hands. “No one will replace your daed. But he’s gone. Your mamm deserves happiness with Joseph, if she chooses. Why are you not happy for them?”
“I should be delighted for them. He brings her gifts, and she’s got a lilt to her step and has been giddy ever since they’ve been spending time together. She beams when she mentions his name, which is much better than her mourning Daed for the rest of her life. It’s been difficult for me, but I shouldn’t stand in her way.”
Caleb understood Rachael’s hesitation because this was new and different for her. He had no doubt she’d put her desires aside and support the couple. “It’s a blessing she and Joseph are courting. We should support her in her newfound happiness.”
She nodded. “It helps to have discussed them with you. I’m ashamed for not showing her more support. I should trust Mamm’s judgment and be nicer to Joseph.”
Eleanor and Joseph joined them in the kitchen. Eleanor held out a carved box with a heart on top. “Isn’t this lovely? Joseph made it for me. I can keep my dress pins inside it.”
“It’s beautiful, Mamm.” Rachael accepted the box from her and examined it. She passed it back to Mamm. “Joseph, you do nice work.” She met Joseph’s gaze. “And Caleb and I will go to the market with you and Mamm Friday evening.”
“I’m so pleased. Danki, Rachael.” Mamm squeezed her arm.
“I am as well. Do you want us to meet you at the bakery or do you want to kumme home first?” Joseph grinned.
“I’ll meet you in front of the bakery at five. Is this all right with you, Caleb?”
“Yes. It suits me fine.” Caleb was proud of Rachael.
She had made the effort to show her mamm her support. He stayed and visited with Rachael, Joseph, and Eleanor for a half hour and then he bid them farewell. He hoped they’d spend more time with Rachael’s mamm and Joseph. Caleb was protective of Rachael and Eleanor. He hoped Joseph would prove worthy of these two important women in his life.