3

 

Ben stood at the entryway of the farm office, shoulder propped against the doorframe, his arms folded across his chest. “I have to do what, exactly?” His eyes narrowed, the only clear indicator of his irritation.

Phillip sat behind the desk, swiveling back and forth in the black leather chair that was older than the two of them. And Ben’s eldest brother had the gall to smile. Smile, confound it all.

“You have to get fitted for the tux, Ben. We can’t guess about these things.”

“I have to stand in front of a mirror and go through the whole measuring tape thing? Seriously?”

“Part and parcel of the whole groomsmen’s gig. Sorry. Not.”

“No, this whole tux thing is the tough gig. Being…fitted…for it is humiliating.”

“Was that a sneer I heard in your voice?”

Phillip rocked back in the chair, eyes sparkling with mischief. Phillip was an older version of Ben from a physical perspective. They both favored their father in build and coloring.

Aaron’s features were somewhat more angular, his eyes clear and intense, with an amber hue that copied their mother, Anna. They were a good compilation, though Phillip and Aaron had withstood some nasty battles when Phillip returned home from Indianapolis once his cushy career failed to provide the success and security he craved.

Speaking of Aaron… “So, how’s the best man holding up to all this nip and tuck and measure stuff?”

Phillip hooted. “Oh, about like you’d expect. Aaron’s groaning, grumbling a bunch of trash-talk about being a male fashionista, rolling his eyes repeatedly. But, he’s coming through, as always. Just like you. I appreciate it. Mila does, too.”

Ben froze. He could talk about the mission opportunity. The perfect segue had just opened. He looked long and hard at his big brother and came to the decision at once. This, like Hailey Beth had correctly observed, was home. This was his safe zone. He could confide in Phillip. In fact, he wanted to.

Phillip read him with a glance and his eyes went sharp. “OK, what’s on your mind?”

“What do you mean?”

“You went still. When you go all still and quiet, it’s a sure sign you’re rumbling on the inside. Classic Ben Fisher.”

After a few more seconds of that classic Ben Fisher stillness, he moved forward and sat in the chair across from Phillip’s desk. “Well…your attitude about my ‘coming through’ for folks just might change in a minute. Got some time to talk?”

“Always.”

Not wasting time, Ben filled him in, not just on the mission project, but on his meeting with Hailey Beth a few days ago.

“Wow.” Phillip tapped his fingers against the stack of papers sprawled across the wood desk.

“You’re not the first to have that reaction.”

“It’s unexpected, too.”

“I’ve heard that one, too.”

Phillip rubbed at his lower lip, studying Ben. “But…it calls you.”

“Yeah.”

“Wordy, as always.”

Ben shrugged and grinned at his brother, a sense of melancholy adding texture to the moment.

Sadness touched Phillip’s eyes. “I think it’s a great opportunity. Have you broken the news to Mom and Dad yet?”

“I will once I’m sure matters are covered here at the farm. Otherwise, I’m not leaving. I don’t want to leave anybody hanging, least of all Mom and Dad. All of us have been through a lot during the past year.”

“And we emerged on top, thank God. I can’t say you won’t be missed. That’d be a flat out lie. We’ll always be able to use your hand and care, but you’re also talking to someone who knows how important it is to build a life to call your own. Things here are stable, Ben. Pop’s in good shape. The surgery helped him turn a corner. He’s found his leadership feet again. Aaron’s rededicated to his role as manager and ag-specialist and I’m happy running the business end of things.”

Sensing there was more to be said, Ben waited in quiet patience. Sure enough, instinct didn’t prove him wrong.

“I have to admit, though—”

“Yeah?”

“I always thought that life of yours would include Antioch, and marriage, and a family.”

Ben’s pulse escalated. Visions of Hailey Beth danced straight though him, bright and alluring. What was going on with him lately?

“With that comment, I believe wedding fever has officially struck down the Fisher family like a virus.” Ben’s joke fell on somber ears. “Phillip, a volunteer stint for a year or two doesn’t eliminate the prospect of marriage and a family in the future, or am I missing something?”

“I hope you don’t.” The declarative rested on air, pulsing with meaning, and entendre. “How’d HB take the news?”

Defensiveness rose to the top of Ben’s normally placid surface. “Why’s that important, versus the fact that I’m building a path out of town?”

Phillip watched him in a silence that built and lingered.

Ben could taste his sibling’s exasperation.

“Know what? If you don’t get it by now, Ben, I’m not gonna hand you a flashlight. Some things you need to learn on your own.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Ben barked the words.

“Just what it seems. Answer the question. How’d she react?”

“Surprised. That’s about it.”

“Really. That’s all?”

Sure, there had been flashes of sadness, maybe even a level of hurt, but they were lifelong friends. She’d miss him, and he’d surely miss her in return.

If you’re not where you’re at, you’re no place.

Her words came back to him, amplified by a sense of truth, by the way she supported him, even though he sensed her disquiet. She was a true friend. She’d remain a part of his life in Antioch forever.

Until she got married and found her own path away from his. What then? Suddenly, Phillip’s inquiry made perfect, albeit shattering, sense.

The idea of HB moving forward, apart from him, left Ben stunned to silence. He puzzled over the instant, painful tear that split through his spirit.

His big brother let him stew for a few minutes before returning to a layout of spreadsheets and numbers detailing farm production, revenue and expenses. Phillip chuckled beneath his breath and shook his head. “Just be ready for that ol’ nip and tuck on Saturday morning.”

Still troubled, Ben sighed stood. “Only for you, Phillip. Only for you.”

“Don’t speak too fast, bro. I’m sure Aaron’ll be calling on your groomsmen services before too long. Then, someday, it’ll be your turn at the plate.”

Ben closed the office door with a bit more force than was strictly necessary to drown out the sound of his brother’s relishing laughter.

 

~*~

 

Henderson’s Formals and Tailoring was the only shop in town specializing in social occasion attire and fittings. The boutique’s selection wasn’t vast, but featured classic tuxedos for rent along with a number of lavish wedding, bridesmaid and prom dresses.

Hailey Beth hiked her purse higher, excited about the selection finalization and sizing session to come. Mila could have gone to Fort Wayne to purchase her gown and the dresses for her bridal party. Instead, she was keeping things local, feeding Antioch. That made Hailey Beth proud.

She followed four eager, bubbling women into the quaint, charming shop. Wood floors were covered by area rugs. Mirrors abounded, as well as a trio of matching crystal chandeliers that lent glittering illumination to three raised platforms where generations of brides, along with their families and attendants, had viewed and posed their selections. Glass cases featured jewelry, tiaras and satin gloves. Lining the far wall were a selection of shoes that were classic, and gorgeous. An archway divided the store in two. Behind that arch were lines and lines of suits, shirts, tuxedos, shoes, and display cases laden with every necessary accessory for the guys—cufflinks, cummerbunds, bowties, dress socks, and shoes.

Led by Mila, their party was greeted by owner Marilyn Henderson who already displayed the teal satin and lace covered sheath on a mannequin.

Rochelle Simmons, the only one who hadn’t seen the dress yet, fell in love with the garment on sight. “Mila, this is stunning. I love the color and the style is fantastic!”

“I can’t wait to wear it!” Emma Briggs, Aaron’s fiancée, fingered the ample flounce of the skirt, brushing her fingers against fluffy layers of tulle. Emma had won Hailey Beth’s friendship quickly. The blonde-haired, chocolate-eyed beauty was an increasingly important part of the fabric of town as a skilled and compassionate RN who divided her time between Fort Wayne and Antioch. “I love it as much today as I did when we found it last month.”

“Same here. It’s perfection.” Hailey Beth chimed her approval, tucking an arm around her sister’s slim waist. This wedding would be epic, and she couldn’t be happier for Mila and Phillip.

“Are you sure?” Mila eyed her attendants nervously. “I don’t want you to hate what you wear. That’s always the worst when it comes to being in a wedding, isn’t it?”

An enthusiastic chorus of support erased all doubt and excitement built.

Marilyn poured flutes of champagne, brought out a silver tray of cheese and crackers, then began the process of hunting down sizes and putting her seamstress to work. Meanwhile, the wedding party toasted the upcoming ceremony, reclined upon comfy couches, chatted, and gushed.

For Hailey Beth, the moment was perfect.

And, as maid of honor, Hailey Beth was the first one on the sizing block. Following a quick wardrobe change from jeans and a t-shirt into formalwear, she stood on a dais in front of a triple mirror while head seamstress Tara Ogilvee went about transforming her freshly-donned dress into personally tailored perfection. Behind her, a bell-chime sounded above the door, signaling the arrival of a customer.

Make that customers.

Phillip and his squad of groomsmen entered the store, and Phillip’s attention homed in on Hailey Beth immediately since she was presently the only attendant being fitted. “Well, doesn’t the maid of honor look stunning?”

Scandalized, Mila charged for her fiancée. “Get out of here! It’s bad luck or something for you to see anything having to do with the wedding, and—”

Phillip’s chuckle rumbled. “I’m not allowed to see your dress, love. The rest is fair game. Especially in a town the size of Antioch. Not much hope in all of us avoiding each other, but no worries. I arranged things with Marilyn so I’d be sure not to be near when you were modeling your chosen gown.”

“You’re a rat!” Mila chastised, but a rose-hued blush painted her cheeks and she melted into Phillip’s arms when he drew her close and dotted her nose, then both cheeks, with tender kisses.

“I promised I wouldn’t even peek,” he declared with solemnity, still gazing into Mila’s eyes. “Guys, are you looking at the dresses?”

Aaron snorted, and grinned, sweeping his future sister-in-law into a hug and a spin. “I’ve got better things to do.”

Like his father, Aaron was larger than life, intense and passionate. Especially when he released Mila, and his attention homed in on his fiancée, Emma Briggs.

Hailey Beth could have sworn she saw sparks, and stars, and an abiding vibration of love.

“Hey, Em, you keeping good notes? Our day is coming this fall, you know.”

Emma, tall and graceful and bursting with sweet spirit, taunted her beau with an arched brow. “Wouldn’t you like to know? You’ll just have to wait and see what I have planned for you.”

“I’m counting the days.” Aaron captured her left hand, and kissed it gently. A lovely diamond solitaire winked beneath the lights.

The words were whispered, but carried clear to the depths of Hailey Beth’s heart. Oh, to find such commitment, such depth of feeling.

When her attention rested on Ben, she felt vulnerable. Exposed. He had stopped short. He watched after her, and typically, his expression revealed not a thing. Calm, unreadable, he paused just long enough to absorb her with a long look before returning his focus to the guys in his pack and moving toward the men’s section beneath the dividing arch of the store.

Just before the guys left, though, Rochelle tagged Ben, resting a hand on his forearm.

“Ben? Oh, my goodness! It’s been way too long. How are you?” Cheek kisses ensued.

“I’m good. It’s great to see you again, Rochelle. How long are you in town?”

“For the rest of the week. Until next Sunday. I’m hanging with Mila at her place. Wouldn’t miss the Founder’s Day celebrations. There’s still a parade and a carnival, right?”

“As always.”

“I can’t wait. Everyone’s already buzzing about the dance.”

Ben laughed. “The social event of the season in Antioch.”

“Other than your brother’s wedding, of course.” She stepped close, coy and playful. “I have so many great memories of Founder’s Day from when we were growing up. I’m sure by now you already have a date—”

“Gentlemen, if you’ll follow me, we’ll get started on the tuxedo orders.”

Thank the good heavens above for Marilyn’s intercession. Frozen like a statue, Hailey Beth ignored the rustle of fabric, the pins, the background clamor of her friends. Powerless, she followed the conversation between Rochelle and Ben with an intensity that left her holding her breath. Relief poured through her veins once Ben was led away.

He glanced over his shoulder a time or two when Phillip’s group was directed toward menswear. He focused on Hailey Beth, but he had also focused on Rochelle. Tough not to realize he had been flattered by her attention and flirtation. A chill of embarrassment danced against Hailey Beth’s skin. She felt transparent. Foolish to the maximum degree.

“Would the white smoke billowing from your ears mean you’ve elected yourself Pope?”

Mila’s whispered tease snapped Hailey Beth to proper focus. She glared at her sister, but on the inside, felt nothing but gratitude for the quiet understanding she saw in Mila’s eyes.

“Wouldn’t that be historic?”

“Almost as historic as confronting yourself in the mirror,” Mila rejoined sweetly, but again in quiet tones meant for the two of them alone.

“Ridiculous.”

“Tell me about it.”

 

~*~

 

Hailey Beth tossed a bag of wedding accessories across the room in a fit of temper. She really needed to get over this whole Ben Fisher inspired roller coaster of emotion she seemed to be riding of late. The plastic sack landed in a heap on top of her bed. She released a growl and scowled at the world in general.

There she had stood, framed in triplicate like a total idiot, being fitted into layers of tulle and lace. Meanwhile, Rochelle had moved in on Ben and captured his attention. Hailey Beth sneered. Capture was such a mild word. In truth, Rochelle had visibly captivated him. Meanwhile, as the seamstress pinned and positioned, Hailey Beth had felt trapped—literally and figuratively—powerless to do anything but watch after them, and endure a piercing without so much as a flinch. Such had been the course of her feelings for Ben from the beginning.

Once his little flirtation with Rochelle had concluded, Ben noticed Hailey Beth. Sure, he had raked her with a couple of thorough, sparkling-eyed looks, but then he had stalked away after not much more than a quietly murmured greeting. He’d probably been stunned out of his mind to see her in fancy attire, standing before him like a gaping, crushing teenager. Which she wasn’t. By any means.

Or was she? Was Mila right? Was she afraid to confront herself, and her emotions?
Right on cue, without apology or preamble, Mila stormed across the threshold of Hailey Beth’s room at their parents’ home. “Well, that was an interesting shopping expedition. Care to fill me in on whatever it is you’re dealing with when it comes to Ben Fisher?”

“Leave it be, Mila.”

“Sorry. I can’t. This is all part of the Big Sister Manual, right under the chapter entitled: Never Let Your Younger Sibling Wallow in Despair Without Nagging Her to Death. Now. Spill.”

“Go away.”

“Try again.”

“Go away, please?” For show, Hailey Beth delivered a sickly-sweet smile and fluttered her lashes.

“Try again—part two.” After a mocking flutter of her own lashes, Mila relented and collapsed onto the edge of Hailey Beth’s quilt-covered bed.

Thin, supple white sheers billowed against an incoming breeze. The wood plank floors creaked pleasantly while Hailey Beth paced. A braided rug cushioned her footfalls. This was comfortable space, her safe zone. Yes, she still resided beneath her parents’ roof, in the room she had occupied almost since birth. She’d always enjoyed the connection, the ready support of working at the family store and living where she had grown up.

Until now.

Suddenly, she felt constricted, a prisoner of her own creation.

“Come on, sweetie.” Mila stretched comfortably against fluffy down and pillows. “In all seriousness, what’s going on? Please talk to me about him, and what you’re feeling. You’ve been acting like the clichéd deer caught in headlights lately, and that’s not like the strong, sassy sister I know and love.”

“Mila, it’s nothing.” And that was the truth. Sadly enough.

“Bull. You’ve adored him forever and you’re both too pig-headed to look the issue straight on and deal with it.”

“Especially since he’s leaving Antioch in the fall!” Hailey Beth shouted the words, playing her trump card, her excuse for all forms of bad behavior since she was heartbroken.

Mila reared back, jaw dropping. She gasped. “He’s not.”

“He is. He’s leaving for Arkansas, and a mission program sponsored by Antioch Christian Church as soon as the fall harvest is complete.”

“The one Reverend Taylor talked about during services a while back?” Hailey Beth nodded.

Mila lunged from the mattress and wrapped her in a tight, wordless hug.

The show of affection and understanding further undermined Hailey Beth’s tenuous grip on self-control. Tear beads trickled over her lashes, running warm down her cheeks. “Mila, I’m finished with all this. I can’t keep doing this to myself. You’re right. I care about him. Very much. Too much.”

“There’s nothing wrong with that.” Mila maintained her hold, rubbing her back.

“I’m a known quantity to him. Have been since we were both babies. There’s no intrigue. There’s no mystery. I’m boring to him. He looks right past me.”

“I don’t think it’s that he looks past you, it’s that he’s comfortable with you. You’ve always been great friends. Tight.”

“Yeah. What a thrill.”

“My point exactly. Everything with you is as expected. You’re a constant. A ready presence. Again, there’s nothing wrong with that. In fact, it’s great—”

“See also, boring.” Hailey Beth cut in. “I’m not compelling to him, or attractive. Look how he took to Rochelle today.”

“Wrong. All you need to do is shake things up. Take him by surprise with a little something unexpected.” Mila waggled her brows in a blatant display of sass.

“Oh. I see. I get it. Be artificial. That’ll be perfect. Hang on a sec. Let me write that down in my journal somewhere before I forget.”

“Oh, go ahead and snark if you want to, but my advice stands, and you know exactly what I’m getting at. Shake up the status quo. Surprise him.”