Chapter Two
Jessica walked ahead of Eli before he moved up to walk at her side on the old winding path that led to the barn. They passed Eli’s buggy, which was parked next to Sam’s. Eli’s horse was tied to the nearby post and let out a loud whinny. When Jessica glanced toward the noise, the horse repeated the sound. In front of her, two monarch butterflies fluttered. In the distance, blades of tall green weeds in the pasture dipped with the light breeze.
Today, the heat seemed like more of a comforting cotton blanket than something to escape. The warm breeze fanned Jessica’s eyelashes.
As they continued to the barn to get the fan, and so she could see where her uncle had made his famous hope chests, the creek became more visible. Jessica’s pulse slowed to an easy pace. Her shoulders relaxed as she focused on the view. She parted her lips in awe.
“It’s more beautiful than anything I’ve ever seen.” She motioned with her hand.
Next to her, Eli spoke in a low, appreciative voice. “Jah. Peaceful, isn’t it? And it’s something only God can create. His miracles are everywhere.”
Jessica pressed her lips together thoughtfully while contemplating his words. She’d never thought of how such a view came about. Was it indeed a miracle?
She wasn’t sure. When Eli stopped and turned to her, she immediately stopped, too, and realized that he awaited a response. She couldn’t confirm or deny his theory, so she said what she was sure of.
“It’s so serene. It really makes you forget your worries.”
They continued ahead. Eli didn’t respond. But it was okay. The silence between them was nice, in a comforting sort of way. She couldn’t talk about God or anything else that she didn’t know about. Why try to guess?
As her mind drifted, the path dipped, and she began to lose her balance.
“Oh!”
As her ankles gave way, Eli quickly grabbed her wrist to steady her. Her automatic reaction was a surprised laugh. “That’ll teach me to daydream.” Seconds later, he dropped his hand, and she thanked him. Still, she found it difficult to focus when she missed the reassuring touch.
What was wrong with her? She silently scolded herself. She reasoned that being out of her comfort zone was definitely getting to her.
I’m independent. I’ve learned to roll with the punches, and I will adapt to this environment that’s very different from what I’m accustomed to. Yes, I’m here by myself. But it’s no different than being in the city, really. I’m alone there, too. The main difference is what’s around me.
After thinking through her emotions, she lifted her chin a notch with a newfound confidence. When he glanced down at her, she looked up and smiled.
As they neared the old barn, the air began to smell of an odd combination of woods. They stopped at the gate, and Eli moved in front of her to unbar the large wooden doors. After shoving them open, they stepped inside and looked at each other.
“If you want to know all about your uncle, this is definitely the place to start.”
Before she could reply, he continued.
“Ya see, Old Sam spent the large part of his days in here. He always owned a horse. And a dog until shortly before he joined the Lord in heaven. ’Course, the last few months, he passed most of his time in bed.”
Jessica frowned. She’d never had a conversation with anyone like this. And she’d certainly never given much thought to where her uncle was now. Joined the Lord? Did Eli really believe that?
Eli looked down at her as if awaiting a response, so she said the first thing that came to her mind. “But you and your family took care of him?”
“Jah. But not only us. Our entire church.” Jessica’s heart warmed at the noticeable affection in Eli’s voice. She already felt a strong bond with this handsome, dark-haired Amish man. She didn’t know him well, of course, but she could tell that he was protective of Old Sam. Probably of everyone he loved.
“We Amish look out for each other, Jessica. Materialistically speaking, I suppose we don’t have a lot. But what we do have is very important. We’re a close-knit group.” He winked. “Held together by love.”
His eyes lit up as he spoke, and she smiled in reaction.
“When one of us is in need, we pool our resources to cover the cost. Maemm and some church ladies took turns bringing food, keeping the house tidy, and making sure he took his meds and such. The doc, well, he said pneumonia was a tough fight. ’Course, we knew that. Especially at Sam’s age. But all through the battle, I never heard your uncle complain.”
“No?”
Eli’s eyes glistened with moisture. He shook his head.
Jessica swallowed an emotional knot and considered the statement. Already she was thinking of Sam Beachy as someone extremely special. As someone she’d want to know.
Inside, the barn smelled of grain, but as the light, warm breeze floated in through the open doors, an ambience that Jessica had never experienced made her breathe in with satisfaction.
She looked around. To her surprise, it wasn’t dark, as she’d imagined it would be. Skylights and large windows allowed plenty of sunlight in. Of course, her uncle wouldn’t have been able to do his intricate carving in the dark.
Eli ran a hand over one of the water troughs and stopped to glance at her. “Here’s the horse stall.” Eli chuckled. “Maemm told me that when Sam’s wife, Esther, was alive, she used to name their animals. She even fed the horses sponge cakes.”
Jessica laughed. “Really?”
Eli nodded. “’Course, when I was born, she’d already passed. But I feel so very privileged to have been a part of your great-uncle’s life. Knowing his beloved wife, Esther, certainly would have been a great blessing, too, but we can never have everything, ya know.”
Several heartbeats later, she agreed.
“I’m thankful for what I’ve had. It’s gut.”
Jessica quickly decided she liked the way he looked at things. As she considered his theory, she realized something that nearly took her breath away. She recognized how very special this man in front of her was.
Somehow, he’d already managed to make her feel welcome and comfortable. His soft, low voice was so convincing. Sincere. She’d never met anyone like him. And she was sure she never would.
Bright sunlight coming in through the skylights made Jessica blink. She hugged her hands to her hips and looked around while Eli made his way to the side wall.
She used the break from him to gather her thoughts. To compose herself. She’d never been the emotional type. Before coming here, she’d viewed things in black and white. Why on earth was her heart pumping at a runner’s pace?
As she contemplated the potent question, she watched Eli. Finally, she figured that her emotional state must be the result of everything finally sinking in. The death of the relative she’d never met. Her surprise inheritance. The fact that this was the opportunity she hadn’t planned on to buy a home close to work. In a safe neighborhood.
She closed her eyes a moment. Getting rid of the long, busy drive across the city would eliminate most of her stress. She shoved out a shaky breath and straightened her shoulders. There. It’s okay. As Eli made his way toward her, she smiled and focused on putting things into perspective.
She was in a special place. This wasn’t just any barn. No. This particular building was the very place where her dear uncle had created magnificent hope chests for people all over the United States. Special works of art with significant meaning, which he carved so brilliantly. Her real estate agent had gone on and on about his talent.
When Eli rejoined her, she looked down at her shoes as a yearning washed over her. “Eli, I have so many questions I need to ask him.” She flung her hands in the air in a helpless gesture. “If only I could sit down with him right now and talk.”
The expression that crossed Eli’s face was so sincere and genuine, she teared up. “But I can’t.”
A long, thoughtful silence ensued before she said the only thing that came into her head. “I hope he’s in a better place.”
Eli’s stunned expression caused her to draw in a surprised breath.
“Of course, he is, Jessica. He’s in heaven.”
The statement came out so honestly and earnestly, like Eli was sure. She continued to study the sincerity in his eyes. “You really think that, don’t you?” She searched his face for an expression, but his eyes were unreadable.
“You don’t?”
She gave an honest shake of her head. “When my parents were alive, they never went to church. I’ve never gone, either. I don’t think they believed in God. In fact, I’m not sure He exists.” She shrugged. A nervous laugh escaped her throat. “How can you be certain?”
She took in the stunned expression on Eli’s face. It was as if he’d never been posed the question. But her curiosity came from her heart. It was an honest question. And if he believed in heaven, he could surely tell her why.
Jessica waited for an answer. She’d always wondered how people could believe in something they’d never seen. When he spoke, his voice was edged with compassion and conviction.
“Jessica, there’s a God who loves you. Old Sam knew Him. In fact, I believe that’s where he got his wisdom. Near the end, we talked a lot about eternal life, the two of us. That he’d be with Esther and his four sons. And that he looked forward to seeing them and meeting God in person. Our Lord and Savior is why we’re here.”
Eli turned and began to step away. “Go ahead.” He motioned. “Look around while I find the fan. It must be on the other side.” He offered a quick wave of his hand and turned to her before stepping away. “Oh, see that?”
She followed his arm to the upper loft.
She nodded.
“There’s a window up in the hayloft that offers the most beautiful view of Pebble Creek you’ll ever see.”
As she listened to his footsteps eventually disappear, Jessica made her way to a workbench in the center of the large structure. Immediately, she was sure that this was where her uncle had created his famous art.
She took in the two chairs, one in front of the bench, and another on the opposite side. Displayed on the bench was a beautiful piece of wood with the beginnings of a design.
She stepped closer for a better look and claimed the wooden chair in front. She traced her finger over what looked like the start of three separate trees. As she leaned closer, she took in the great detail of the bark and the limbs and parted her lips in awe.
To her amazement, the depiction looked real. Old Sam had made the bark look uneven. She imagined how very talented he must have been to have done something like this.
As she stared in astonishment at the work her great-uncle had begun, she found herself giving great thought to Eli’s comment about Old Sam having known God and that the hope-chest creator was now in heaven.
The way his words had come out was as significant as what he’d said, as if Eli knew them, without a doubt, to be true. As she touched the detailed carving, she dared to imagine a God and a heaven.
An amused grin followed. The picture she’d conjured up in her head reminded her of a story a parent would tell their child before bedtime. And the ending, of course, would leave the little one with a smile. But Eli hadn’t directly answered her question. How does he know there’s really a God?
Approaching footsteps brought her back to reality. But for some reason, the concept of God and heaven stayed with her. Her curiosity was piqued. As she looked up, Eli grinned.
“I found the fan. It’s near the entrance. It’s large, so I’ll grab it on the way out.”
All of a sudden, a squirrel scurried in between them, meeting Jessica’s shoes. She glanced down before doing a second take. “He’s tame?”
Eli chuckled. “You could say that. Old Sam fed him well, even bought him pecans, and as you can see”—Eli chuckled before shoving his hands in his pockets—“the spoiled little guy’s not afraid to beg.”
Jessica laughed. “Then we’d better feed him.” She looked around before meeting Eli’s curious gaze. “Where are the snacks?”
Eli motioned to a nearby cabinet. “I’ll get them.”
A moment later, Eli squatted and offered a treat to the small animal, who quickly accepted the nut and scurried out the open doors.
She laughed. “So even the squirrels liked Old Sam.”
“Jah. And trust me, the little bettler will be back for more. Don’t you worry.”
Eli smiled in amusement before his expression turned more serious. “I see you’ve come across your great-uncle’s last project.”
In silence, she lowered her eyes to the board on the workbench and with great affection traced her thumb over one of the trees. She looked up at Eli. “They look so . . . real.” She lifted her shoulders. “How did he manage to make them appear so alive?”
Eli shrugged while he joined her in studying the details. “That’s what made him such a success. When Maemm was young, she used to spend time with him while he worked. She talked to him about things she didn’t speak about to anyone else. And while Old Sam carved, he would offer his very best advice.”
Jessica raised a curious brow. “I wish Old Sam could’ve helped me with my problems.” She lowered her voice so that it was barely more than a whisper. “That I would’ve had him to talk to.”
Jessica drew in a deep breath and leaned back in the chair. She looked around. The place was tidy. On the walls, rakes, pitchforks, and work tools were hung meticulously.
Suddenly, a larger squirrel darted in through the open door, pivoted, and rushed back outside. Green leaves and twigs blew in with the breeze and made a light rustling sound against the concrete floor.
The corners of her lips dropped a notch. Uncle Sam, you were so talented. How I wish I’d been close to you.
“Let’s imagine that Old Sam was still alive and he offered to make you a chest.”
Jessica beamed at the happy thought.
“What carving would you have wanted on the lid?”
The question made Jessica think. As she considered Eli’s inquiry, she strummed her fingers against the bench and breathed in the pleasant scent of oak. Finally, she lifted her chin and sat up straighter, meeting Eli’s gaze with a newfound confidence.
She grinned. “A house.”
Eli pressed his lips together. “A house?”
She offered an eager nod as he claimed the seat across from her and leaned forward. “What kind?”
She looked off in the distance as she tried to picture it. Her dream home. Finally, she drew in a breath and folded her hands in her lap.
“A place where I don’t need dead bolts. Where nothing bad will happen to me if I forget to lock up.” After a slight pause, she continued. “I suppose you could say that my childhood wasn’t stable. I grew up never knowing what the days would bring. My father . . . he was an alcoholic. When he drank, he became a different person. I was afraid for so long, I developed anxiety from it. I take medicine to help.”
After taking a breath, she went on. “Right now, I have a long, stressful drive through the city to get to my job, which doesn’t help. Buying a place close to work will be a tremendous relief, not to mention that I’ll be in a much safer neighborhood.”
She took in the thoughtful expression on Eli’s face. Finally, he said, “I’m sorry, Jessica. I had no idea . . .”
She offered a wide smile. “Things will be better after this place sells.”
As soon as the words came out of her mouth, she noted the way the corners of Eli’s lips dropped several disappointed notches.
A loud, unexpected bang made her jump up out of her chair. She shouted in fear. “Oh!”
She turned at the sound and saw that a sudden gust of wind had blown the heavy doors closed. She drew in a deep breath and clasped her hands over her chest in relief. Her pulse zoomed at a wild beat.
“Hey, it’s okay.” Eli’s large hand on her arm was firm, yet gentle at the same time. He’d been extremely quick to make his way around the bench to her. In both gratitude and fear, she looked up at him. There’s no need to worry. You’re safe here. Forget the past. That was a long time ago.
“Are you all right?” Deep concern edged his voice. She was quick to note how his hands steadied her. His gentle fingers offered her a sense of reassurance. That everything would be okay.
To avoid further discussion about her past, she offered a confident nod. “I feel silly. I mean, letting something so harmless like that scare me.”
Without thinking, she interlaced her hands in front of her and forced a half smile. But she shook. Inside, her heart beat at a fast pace that she was sure would win any race.
He moved his hand up her arm to her shoulder. “Are you sure?” Before she could answer, he went on. “You’re shaking like a leaf.”
She tried to compose herself. “I’m fine. Really.”
Inside, she knew she’d lied. She definitely wasn’t okay. But to her surprise, what disturbed her most wasn’t the doors slamming. The real crux of her shaking and pounding heart was Eli’s gentle, comforting touch combined with the softness in his low voice.
What’s wrong with me? When she stepped back, he dropped his arm. But when he did, she immediately missed his warmth. She forced a laugh and tried to make light of what she considered to be a dire situation.
“I apologize for touching you, Jessica. But you were so afraid . . .”
“It’s okay, Eli. That I’m a bit out of my comfort zone might be an understatement.” She rolled her eyes. “For goodness’ sake, what were we talking about?”
As she pressed a finger to her lips and looked down, it came to her. She snapped her fingers and lifted her chin. “Old Sam. And what my hope-chest lid would be, if he’d made me one.”
She dropped back into her great-uncle’s chair and focused on the work he’d started. She breathed in decisively and met Eli’s uncertain gaze with determination to stay calm.
“I’m sure Old Sam would have done his best work for you. And more importantly, I know without a doubt that he’d want you safe and sound.”
He took the hand-carved board on the workbench and studied it with interest. As she watched him, she couldn’t help but wonder how such strong, callused hands could provide so much tenderness and assurance.
Eli’s confident statement tugged at her emotions because she’d never felt so protected in her life. And although she didn’t understand the sensation, she relished it. But why was she comforted by his words? Was it because of this unexpected change in her life?
It’s not right to yearn for his touch when we’ve just met. After all, I don’t even know this man. My circumstances are making me crave security even more than usual.
Eli’s voice pulled her from her reverie. “He’d just started this one.”
She redirected her attention to the carving, thankful to divert attention from her out-of-control thoughts.
“It was for a woman who helps run the local nursing home.” He paused to arch his brow. “They’re wonderful, by the way. I mean, the folks who work at the home. In fact, Amish and Mennonites often stay there after surgery. Englischers, too. It’s so much easier to do rehabilitation without going by car or buggy to therapy every day.”
“That makes sense.”
“Anyway, she has three young daughters. All under the age of ten. And a year ago, all three planted acorns at the same time. Apparently, a contest started to see whose tree would grow the tallest.”
He reclaimed the chair on the opposite side, moved it closer to the bench, and strummed his fingers against the edge, extending his legs.
A laugh escaped Jessica’s throat. Eli chuckled. “You know how kids are.”
“What did their mom tell them? I mean, a lot plays into how a tree grows. Weather, and . . .” She shrugged. “Well, I don’t know what else, but there must be other things.”
His expression turned serious. “God has control over everything that grows, including us.”
She took in the sincerity of his words. They hit her with such ferocity, their power nearly took her breath away. It wasn’t because she believed them; rather, it was the genuine conviction with which they came out. She waited for him to continue.
“Anyway, their maemm requested a hope chest with three oak trees of different heights. And in ten years, the tallest would win.”
“And the prize for the winner?” Before he responded, she cut in with the snap of her fingers. “The hope chest.”
* * *
Behind Jessica, Eli carried the large fan as they traversed the long, winding path that led to the house. While Eli reflected on their interesting conversation that had taken place in the barn, he took advantage of the opportunity to more carefully study her.
He took note of the confident way she carried herself. It was as if she didn’t have a care in the world. She held her head high. Her long hair was tousled by the warm breeze. The sunlight on her hair lightened it a notch, as if the sun had kissed it. A pleasant fragrance followed her. He couldn’t pinpoint the scent, but it reminded him of a fresh basket of peaches.
She glanced back at him, and he returned her contagious smile.
“Eli?”
“Jah?”
“Thanks for talking to me.”
“I didn’t do much.”
She nodded before turning where the path curved. “Yes, you did. You just don’t realize it.”
He considered what she’d just said. He wasn’t actually sure what he’d done, besides listen. But it must have been significant for her to draw attention to it.
As they walked, he acknowledged that this was the strangest job he’d ever had. In fact, so far, everything about working for Jessica Beachy was off the charts largely because she was the great-niece of Old Sam. He’d never known anyone who’d had such a tumultuous upbringing.
And of course, now that he’d learned that Jessica wasn’t a Christian, he knew in his heart that leading her to the Lord was more important than this job or anything he’d ever do. But how?
As he switched the fan and the cord to his other hand, his gaze slid down to her heels. He arched a curious brow, wondering how she could walk in them. To him, they looked uncomfortable, but she seemed to move with ease. Like she was used to them. Without thinking, he found himself imagining how she would look with her hair tied back and tucked under a kapp. With a long dress and apron.
It will never happen. As he considered the beautiful girl, an unexpected sadness hit him. How can a person exist without believing in God? He contemplated how different his own life would be if he didn’t count on his Heavenly Father to get him through the day.
Everything he did revolved around his faith and his belief that Jesus had died on the cross for his sins and had risen. If a person doesn’t believe that, how can they get out of bed in the morning?
An ache filled his chest as he wondered. Suddenly, he realized the severity of his responsibility. He didn’t know what God had planned for him, but what if He’d brought Jessica here to turn her life around?
The more he considered this unusual set of circumstances, the more Eli acknowledged the huge responsibility that now fell on his shoulders. How different being a Christian would make in her life.
That’s what he thought, anyway. To live without depending on God for guidance and strength was too much for him to even try to imagine.
Eli wasn’t fooled by the confidence the girl appeared to exude. He frowned, recalling her reaction to the loud bang as the barn door had slammed shut. The startled look in her eyes. The light rose color in her cheeks had disappeared the moment it happened. For a few moments, her face had blanched. And he could understand why. The poor girl had been traumatized.
He’d never forget how she’d reacted to his hand on her shoulder. He was fully aware that touching a single woman wasn’t proper, but he’d had to do something to ease her fear. And he’d done the right thing because she’d calmed down and had thanked him.
But for some reason, touching her had brought on a strange, uncharted new awareness inside of him. He had sensed a bond with her from the moment they met.
And a large part of it had to do with his need to protect Old Sam’s great-niece. I’m only here to help her. So stop making it more than it is.
As the bright sun slipped behind a large fluffy cloud, Eli pressed his lips together pensively. Between the barn and the house, he frowned. He didn’t know this girl well, but even so, he was certain he wanted to help her. For some reason, this vulnerable girl brings out my protective nature.
While he took in her long legs and narrow shoulders, he considered her comment about having a safe home. The more he thought about it, the more he considered it an odd one. Not because it wasn’t a believable, legitimate want, it was. But what she’d mentioned was something he’d always taken for granted. Because he’d always had it.
As Pebble Creek loomed in the distance, two things made his pulse beat at a disturbed pace. The first was that she obviously didn’t have a safe place to call home. Secondly was her doubt that God existed.
The cord got away from him, and he stopped, set the fan down, and took a moment to wind the white piece loosely around his wrist. Shortly after, Jessica stopped, too, and turned around to face him.
“Eli, I’m happy to help carry that.”
He smiled.
As if reading his mind, she lifted a brow and hugged her hands to her hips, squaring her shoulders while giving him a challenging expression. “You don’t think I can lift it, do you?”
Without responding, he began walking again. She took a step back to be alongside him.
“I’m sure you can. But I’m the chivalrous type.” He swatted a dragonfly away from his nose. “What do you think of that?”
She glanced up at him. He noticed that she didn’t look directly into his eyes. Her lashes were lowered, an obvious sign of shyness.
Again, his protective instinct took over. There was something about her that made him want to look out for her. At times, she seemed so . . . vulnerable.
She spoke again in a low voice. “I noticed that right away about you, Eli. When you motioned me into the barn. And inside the house when you held out my chair before I sat down. And of course, when you insisted on carrying the fan.”
She looked up at him and he met her look with a serious curiosity. Why did he have this strong need to take care of her? Several seconds later, he still wasn’t sure.
* * *
Inside the Beachy home, Eli proceeded to the hall closet. Several seconds later, he gave the door a light shove to close it and muttered, “No battery. Next trip over, I’ll bring one.”
“Thank you, Eli.” As if remembering something, she straightened, put her hands on her hips, and glanced at Wayne before shifting her attention to Eli. “Would either of you care for more sun tea?”
“That would be nice,” Eli replied.
“Denki,” Wayne added.
While Jessica stepped away, Eli contemplated the girl who’d inherited this special place and the changes in lifestyle that must seem drastic to her. He considered the changes to be made and the hours involved.
But most of all, he thought seriously about the question she’d asked him about God. Her curiosity had Eli thinking. How could he offer her proof that his Savior existed?
While Eli and Wayne discussed Jessica’s plans for the house, Eli’s thoughts stayed on Old Sam’s great-niece. She will have to adjust to a house without electricity. I’ll get her fan going as soon as I get a battery. That will make things nicer for her.
Of course, I can only do so much, but I’ll try my best to make her feel at home. He smiled a little. She’ll see how friendly everyone here is.
Jessica refilled their glasses with the brown-colored beverage, stepped to the table and set the drinks on the oak surface. “Here you go.” Quick steps took her back to the small countertop, where she picked up a third glass for herself.
After taking a swig, Eli nodded satisfaction and smiled. “This hits the spot.”
Her eyes lit up. “Thanks. I drink tea all day. There’s nothing like good ol’ Lipton.”
Eli shoved his chair back and stood. He turned his attention to Jessica. “If you’re in a rush to get this place fixed up, we’d better get busy.” He grinned, and she returned the smile.
Without saying anything, Wayne made his way to the entryway. The door made a clicking sound as it closed. From the window, Eli could see him looking for something in the buggy.
“Eli . . .”
He looked at her to continue.
She blushed a little and lowered her chin so she wasn’t looking directly at him. “Thank you.”
He laughed. “For what?”
“You’ve reassured me. In a way.”
He lifted a brow. “I’m not sure what you mean, but I’m glad I could help.”
“You have. To be honest, I’m still a little unsettled about all of this. You know, being away from the city for the first time . . . and knowing that someone who didn’t even know me, cared enough about me to leave me this.” She extended her hands. “It’s overwhelming.”
After a brief pause, she went on. “At the same time, I have a huge responsibility to myself to fix this up and get a good price so I can live close to work and where it’s safe.”
She shrugged. “I’ll stop jabbering. But I wanted you to know that you’ve made me feel welcome. Thank you.”
She reclaimed her seat at the table and finished her tea. When Wayne was back in the house, he and Eli talked between themselves, using a handheld calculator, a pen, and a notepad.
Finally, Eli sat down opposite her and leaned forward. “Here’s a rough estimate.”
He handed her the paper while his brother went to the kitchen and began putting things back into his work box. Her fingers brushed Eli’s, but he quickly acknowledged that the excited jump of his pulse didn’t have anything to do with Jessica’s heart or soul.
As far as he could recall, his reaction was something he’d never experienced. At the same time, he was certain that it didn’t mean anything. But could he blame himself for what his pulse did? If he could push a button to slow down its speed, he would.
Satisfied that he’d acknowledged his feelings, that he was merely reacting to a vulnerable female, a girl who needed him, he studied her again while she contemplated the numbers in front of her.
Ei and Wayne talked about how to accomplish what needed to be done. Jessica disappeared to another room while they did so. But her light, flowery perfume lingered in the room. As she stepped away, he could hear the light click of her heels against the wood floor.
The shade of her hair reminded him of leaves turning color in the fall. Her long bangs nearly touched her dark, thick lashes, and her creamy skin was flawless. As he considered Old Sam’s great-niece, he wondered why Sam hadn’t mentioned her. Jessica Beachy had never once set foot in this town, let alone in this house, while Old Sam had been alive. Eli frowned.
Obviously, she meant something to him if he’d left her all that he owned. Even if she was the only living descendant.
She rejoined them and nodded. “This seems reasonable enough. But you two won’t be doing it alone, right? Isn’t there a crew?”
Her question prompted the corners of his lips to drop a notch and he shook his head. “Just us two and our driver, Chuck. Of course, he’s not here today ’cause we came by buggy.”
Eli rubbed his chin, considering her question. “I understand why you’re in a hurry to get everything done. That you’re taking off work, and that time is of the essence. And if you’d like, there’s a large crew I could recommend . . . they’d have the jobs done in much less—”
Before he could finish, she leaned forward and held up a hand to stop him. “I’d prefer you and your brother, since you were so highly recommended.”
He nodded.
She poured herself another drink and returned her glass to the table. As she met his look with a smile, her voice took on a much more serious tone. “You knew my great-uncle.” She hesitated. “Already, I feel bonded to you for that, Eli.”
He lifted a brow.
She gestured with her hands. “You said something earlier. That he recommended you take your time to do quality workmanship.”
“Jah. I knew him well. In fact, we considered him part of our family.” After an emotional breath, he added, “I wish you could have met him.”
She quickly nodded in agreement. “Me too, Eli.” She took a deep breath and let out a long sigh. “Suddenly, everything’s starting to sink in. His death . . . this house . . . all he left me. I apologize if I’ve been brusque. It’s just that I’ve been a little stressed. And like I told you, I’m out of my comfort zone. But I’m starting to come to my senses. Now that I’ve met you and we’ve discussed the fix-ups, I feel like I’m carrying a lighter load. I want to know everything there is to know about Uncle Sam Beachy. Would you tell me something about him?”
“Now?”
“Maybe a story?”
In the entryway, Wayne motioned with a hand. “Ready.”
Eli nodded at his sibling. “Go ahead. I’ll be out in a few minutes.”
Wayne nodded farewell to Jessica. Eli smiled and relaxed against the back of the chair. Old Sam would have loved this girl. I know it. And she would have loved him. He cleared his throat and lifted his chin a notch with determination. “Which one? There are so many.” He breathed in. “Your great-uncle was one of the most incredible men I’ve ever met. And I say that with affection. There was something so . . .”
She sat very still with her palms pressed against her thighs.
“By now, I’m sure you’re aware of his love for animals.”
She nodded.
“He was wise. In fact, people who knew him went to him for advice. And trust me, they paid close attention to what he said.”
“Really?”
“Jah. They always respected his opinion.”
Eli interlaced his fingers and released them. “He made elaborate hope chests. Lots of them, in fact. It’s hard to explain. When you think of a hope chest, you probably think of a plain chest made to hold special things. But your great-uncle . . . as you could see from what he’d started in the barn, he had this unusual talent for etching beautiful designs into the lids.”
Eli crossed his legs at the ankles and scooted his chair back a couple inches for more room. He took another swig of tea and slowly returned his glass to the table. “To him, it was all about the story that went into each lid. People would ask him to make special designs for them. Just like the one you saw in the barn.”
She strummed her fingers against the table.
He thought about how to better answer her question. There was a lot to do. Wayne was waiting outside; yet, it was important to him that this Englisch woman knew just what a special soul her great-uncle was. It would have meant a lot to Old Sam. And to Eli, too. Because he considered it his responsibility to keep Old Sam’s memory alive.
“Things that represented something significant in their lives.” He paused to try for the best words to offer an accurate picture of the man he’d loved and respected.
“He accommodated so many people, Jessica. When Maemm used to keep him company while he carved wood, he taught her a lot.”
When Jessica’s eyes lit up with surprise, a chuckle escaped him and he continued. “Maybe that’s why she’s so wise. She made him sponge cakes after his wife, Esther, went to the Lord. Of course, that was years ago.”
“So they were close? Your mom and my great-uncle?”
He nodded. While he contemplated the past week and the grief his familie had experienced at the loss of his mother’s beloved mentor, he blinked at the sting of salty tears before taking a determined breath to maintain his composure. Old Sam’s death was so recent, and Eli was still grieving.
“I apologize, Eli. I can tell that you loved my great-uncle. I hear it in your voice. Maybe it’s too soon to open up about him. Especially if he was like family to you. Let’s wait . . .”
As he watched the curious expression that crossed her face, he knew at that moment that it was more important than ever for him to let her know how very much Old Sam Beachy had meant to the community.
“It’s my privilege to share things with you, Jessica. And even more special to have been close to him.”
Eli stopped to clear an emotional knot that obstructed his throat. Salty tears stung his eyes. Tearing up wouldn’t help him do justice to Old Sam. And the man’s legacy was too special to botch up.
He drew in a determined breath and faced Jessica. “When I think of the number of hope chests he made . . .” Eli let out a low whistle. “From all over the United States, folks requested special lids, and interestingly, each person wanted their lid to represent a story. And some—” He shook his head and a smile curved his lips in amusement and fondness. “They would touch your heart, Jessica.”
“Did he ever make one for his wife, Esther? I mean, before she died?”
Finally, Eli shrugged. “I’m not sure. I’ll ask Maemm.”
As Eli looked around, he spotted what appeared to be nice clothes laid over a suitcase just inside of the bedroom.
Her gaze followed his, and he lifted an inquisitive brow.
As if reading his thoughts, she smiled a little. “I love dressing up on my time off. At the hotel I work at, I wear a uniform.” She grinned. “There wasn’t a place for everything in the bedroom. Apparently, Old Sam didn’t have a lot of clothes, and what he had, he hung on a peg.”
She sat up straighter and pressed her lips together in a firm line. “But back to Old Sam and Esther.” Jessica laughed. “Did you hear that?” Before Eli could answer, she went on with excitement. “I’m already calling him Old Sam!”
Eli quickly scanned his list and smiled. “And it looks like you’ll be needing a clothes rod, too.”
She grimaced. “Please. And if you don’t mind, the sooner the better.”
He eyed the pile of dresses and jackets.
She pointed to the paper he held. “Maybe you can help me decide if anything else needs to be done to help sell this home.”
Eli’s smile slipped at that last statement. He didn’t try to hide his disappointment.
“Something’s wrong?”
As she eyed him, the expression that crossed her face was a combination of astonishment and concern. A surprised breath escaped her. “You must have cared for my uncle very much.”
She went on, leaning forward. For a moment, time seemed to stand still. Those large jade-green eyes . . . they compelled him. Drew him in.
Her voice brought him back to reality, and he straightened.
“I think it’s really sweet.”
When he waited for her to go on, she fidgeted with her hands. But she didn’t continue. A long, uncertain silence ensued, until Eli smiled a little and adjusted to a more comfortable position.
“It’s not just the house, it’s the entire Pebble Creek.” To emphasize his point, he lifted his palms. Her last statement made him truly realize how very little she knew about her great-uncle and his place. But I have to tell her.
The corners of his lips lifted another notch. “When my folks were kids, they used to throw pebbles into the creek to see who could make the bigger splash.”
Several heartbeats later, her jaw dropped in surprise. “I’m sorry; I think I get how much this place means to you and your parents. But Eli . . . surely you understand why I couldn’t just leave my life and start a new one here in the Midwest.”
She paused to spread her arms apart. “And I don’t really see a problem with my plan to sell. I mean, even if it has a new owner, what’s here can’t simply just get up and walk away, right?”
He gave a slow shake of his head.
“The land is here to stay. You can look at it the rest of your life, no matter whose name it’s in.”
Suddenly, he felt ridiculous for trying to explain Pebble Creek’s sentimental worth. How could the woman across from him ever understand, when she hadn’t even met the kind, gentle man who’d lived here for so many years?
“I think it’s really endearing that you have such a big heart, Eli. But as far as such a strong attachment to a place . . .” She sighed and shrugged. “I wouldn’t know about that. I’ve never had one.”
Surprise edged his voice. “You’ve never been attached to a home? To a place?”
After pushing out a small sigh, she shrugged again. “No.”
In the background, the sound of chirping came from the sill of the open screened window.
Eli gave a wry grin. “The birds are expecting to be fed.”
“What?” She turned to follow his gaze to the kitchen window.
He chuckled. “Old Sam fed them. Even after he came down with pneumonia.”
“Oh!” She threw her hands in the air and smiled. “I’ve only been here a short while, but I can see that I have some big shoes to fill!”
The corners of Eli’s mouth dropped into a frown. While she’s here. He knew next to nothing about Sam Beachy’s great-niece, but what he was sure of was how very different she was from him. He loved Pebble Creek and all his memories of this beautiful spot.
But it wasn’t just the property that was an emotional magnet. It was his family and Old Sam. They were connected to this parcel, and he couldn’t look at the land without seeing everyone who loved it, and who had grown up here.
He leaned forward and rested his elbows against the table. He held his chin up with his palms and used the most logical tone he could. “This is how I see it. When you were a kid, did you ever play connect the dots?”
He straightened and tapped the toe of his boot against the floor while he awaited a response.
She nodded and smiled. “But what does connecting dots have to do with selling Pebble Creek?”
Several heartbeats later, Eli knew how to explain his sentiment for this beautiful property. “When you connect the dots, you don’t just see one, right?”
She shrugged. “I suppose not. What are you trying to say?”
He thought a moment about how to make his concept clear to her. “You see all the dots. And that’s how it is with Old Sam’s house and Pebble Creek. I don’t view this property as one dot. On the contrary, I can’t think of this memorable home and the land that goes with it without seeing all the other dots.” Realizing he’d said it as best he could, he gently lifted his palms and eyed her to make sure she’d understood.
“What other dots?”
“Old Sam, Maemm, Daed, my brothers and sisters, familie. Because we’ve all created memories on Pebble Creek. It’s easy to understand, really. Part of us belongs here.”
He noted how the corners of her lips fell before she finally pursed them in doubt.
“You want to know something, Eli? I’m not privy to the history that you and your family have, and I won’t pretend to be. And obviously, I’m probably not going to see this the way you do.” She hesitated before smiling a little. “But that’s not all bad, Eli. I try not to dwell on the past. Trust me, it’s not a good place to be. I always try to look forward. Change isn’t a bad thing. All I know is how beautiful this place will be when you finish with it.”
He could feel his cheeks warm. His heart beat a tad too quickly, and his lungs pumped with great difficulty. Looking down, he forced himself to stop his silly reactions. She seemed to have great faith in him. And he hadn’t even begun remodeling. What if she was disappointed?
Of course, he shouldn’t worry. The city girl opposite him held a far different view than his. Their upbringings hadn’t been similar. The environments in which they’d grown up had obviously been different. Still, his strong, loyal connection to Old Sam and the fact that he was speaking to Sam’s heir made him care what she knew and how she felt.
And as far as fixing this place up, she obviously had high expectations. Taking credit for something he’d not yet done was jumping the gun. He hadn’t even started.
Jessica Beachy might say kind things to him, and she certainly seemed nice enough, but she definitely didn’t understand his emotional attachment to Pebble Creek. But why would she? His memories weren’t hers.
Jessica Beachy certainly was direct. She’d been upfront about her plans. And she had asked Eli straight out how he knew God existed.
The sale of Pebble Creek and knowing someone who didn’t believe in God prompted the corners of Eli’s lips to turn down. Sam Beachy’s great-niece says she’s out of her comfort zone. What she doesn’t realize is how she’s put me out of mine.