Two Suitors for Anna Read online

  “I can manage.” He fetched his wagon and hitched the reins to the post in front of the store and loaded his things. He returned to the shop and Anna handed him his cookies and container of stew. “I have everything.”

  “We’ll look forward to seeing you at six. Our haus is on Brown Road. The second farm on the left.”

  “I look forward to it.” He waved to Anna and Leah and held the door open for the Englischers, then followed the customers out. He drove home, and inside his haus, he fed Otis and let him outside. He checked the clock and crossed the yard to the barn. The hours would drag by until the time came to clean up, change clothes, and go to the Planks’ for a good home-cooked meal.

  Later in the day, he took off his dusty boots, went to the living room, and checked the maple mantel clock above the fireplace again. Five o’clock. Finally, the time had arrived to wash and get dressed to go spend time with beautiful Anna and her family. His razor sharp, he swirled the brush in the shaving-soap mug, scraped away the whiskers from his jaw and neck, and poured water from his mamm’s white china pitcher into its matching bowl to rinse his face. Running his hand over his chin, he grinned. He hadn’t cared about being perceived as attractive by a woman until he met Anna.

  He changed the water, washed, toweled off, and dressed in his crisp, clean black pants and white shirt. After pulling his suspenders over his shoulders, he snapped them in place. He went to the kitchen and emptied the cookies in a clear jar and poured the chicken stew in a bowl from his cupboard. He poured water from a pitcher into the dishpan, rinsed, and dried the Planks’ container to take back to them.

  After throwing wood into the wagon bed, he paused to count how much was there. “This stack of firewood should last a while.” He petted his dog and opened the back door. “Otis, time for you to go inside. Your water and food bowls are full. Help yourself.”

  He hummed familiar hymns on the way to the Planks’ and enjoyed the orderly Amish farms along the way. Grand horses, fat cows, and herds of sheep grazed contentedly in pastures. The trip didn’t take long. The Planks didn’t live far from him. He liked living close to Anna. Arriving, he halted the wagon and tied the horse to the worn white hitching post. Their plain white haus had a wraparound porch with two rocking chairs out front. The pond lay off to the left side with oak trees providing shade throughout the property. The worn-planked barn stood off to the left side. The garden had perfect rows of vegetables and the hay field spread over about five acres.

  A younger maedel with big emerald-green eyes and the sweetest dimples in her cheeks greeted him at the door. “You must be Mr. Bontrager. I’m Beth.” She opened the door wider. “Kumme in, please.” Her impish grin brought a smile to his face.

  “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Beth. Call me Daniel.” She didn’t resemble Leah or Anna with her green eyes and red hair in a tight bun under her thin cotton bonnet.

  Beth put a hand to the side of her mouth and lowered her voice. “Mamm has prepared company beef roast for tonight. My favorite. She only cooks her special dish if we’re having special guests.”

  He raised his eyebrows. “I like being a special guest.”

  Beth giggled and covered her mouth. “You can take a seat in the sitting room until the food is ready. Would you like something to drink?”

  “I’m fine. I’ll wait until dinner to have a glass of water. Do you mind taking the basket to the kitchen? Anna let me borrow it and the bowl inside.” He studied the mantel above the fireplace and admired the oak clock. The pine settee and chairs had feather-stuffed black cushions, and a green-and-white pinwheel quilt hanging on the maple quilt rack in the corner created a comfortable atmosphere.

  Beth accepted the basket and container from him. “I’ll put these away and kumme back and keep you company until the food’s ready.”

  She returned and chattered about making her first apron under Mamm’s instruction.

  Mamm wiped her hands on a towel and approached him. “I’m pleased to meet you, Mr. Bontrager. Beth should have brought you to the kitchen right away for us to give you a proper greeting. I apologize.”

  “I wanted to talk to him by myself for a little bit.” She gave Mamm an impish grin.

  Mamm frowned and shook her head. “No doubt.”

  “I don’t mind. Beth’s been very good company.”

  Beth beamed.

  Mamm smiled. “I’m grateful for all you’ve done to help Anna and Leah. They’ve told me you defended them against Butch Winter and about the repairs you’ve made at the shop. I’m glad you could join us. Kumme to the kitchen.”

  He nodded.

  Mrs. Plank had a stout, round body, but her heart-shaped face and button nose resembled Anna’s. Her demeanor was serious but kind.

  “Call me Daniel, and danki for the invitation. I’m new in town, so I’m glad to meet new friends. Dining with your family is a treat for me.” Daniel followed her and Beth.

  He met Anna’s gaze, and her mouth tipped at the corners to a smile. His heart flip-flopped. He yearned for a sign of encouragement she found him attractive and was delighted to see him. She confirmed it with her sweet smile. The Planks carried dishes of green beans, beef, beets, and boiled potatoes to the table. Warm, puffy, fragrant biscuits steamed in a round basket in the center. The meal was fit for a king. “Greetings, Anna and Leah. The food looks scrumptious.”

  “Daniel, good to see you.” Anna grinned.

  “Glad you’re here, Daniel.” Leah carried over salt-and-pepper shakers.

  Beth pulled out a chair. “Daniel, you sit between Anna and me.”

  He hoped he didn’t fumble over his words or spill anything. He wanted to leave Anna’s family with a good impression. “My pleasure, Beth.” He waited until the women were seated, then took his seat.

  Mamm glanced at him. “Would you say grace, Daniel?”

  “I’d be honored.”

  Mamm reached for Leah’s and Anna’s hands.

  He held Anna’s hand and Beth clasped his. Anna’s dainty fingers and soft skin sent tingles coursing through him. Shutting his eyes, he bowed his head. “Dear Heavenly Father, forgive me for displeasing You in any way. Danki for providing this food and bless the women who have prepared the meal. Danki for bringing me to Berlin and introducing me to this kind family. Amen.”

  Beth passed him the steaming-hot parsley potatoes. “Leah told me you’re Jonathan’s bruder. I’m sorry he and Adele died. I liked them very much. She said your parents died too. You must get lonely.” She paused and smiled at him. “You can kumme to our haus anytime to eat with us.”

  Anna’s younger schweschder hadn’t taken a breath between sentences.

  He wouldn’t have to worry about any lulls in the conversation. He liked her spunk. “Your offer is a generous one. My old friend, Otis, keeps me company at the farm, but I would much rather be here with your family sharing supper.”

  Beth tilted her head. “Who is Otis?”

  “My dog. He’s an average-sized mutt, and he has short brown hair and big brown eyes. He’s friendly and behaves well.”

  Leah cupped her water glass, ready to take a sip. “Bring him over next time. I want to meet him.”

  “I’m not sure your mamm would approve of a dog in the haus.”

  Mamm moved her hand in a backward wave. “I don’t mind. I’d like to meet him too.”

  Beth pushed the green beans to the far corner of her plate. “You must be sad your family died. Anna’s sad too. Noah, our friend, asked Anna to marry him, but she told him no. He wanted to move away and she didn’t. I heard her tell Mamm he wanted her to change the way she liked to do things, and she doesn’t want to. If Thomas asked me to change my ways all the time, I’d tell him to mind his own business. I’m glad she stayed here. If he’d loved her enough, he would have married her and never left.”

  Anna’s eyes widened and her mouth flew open. “Beth, please don’t discuss my private business with Daniel.”

  “Why? My friends played with me at Mrs. Hochst
etler’s today. They’re gossiping about Noah leaving. Daniel may as well hear it from me.” She whirled her head to Daniel. “Besides, if he didn’t love Anna enough to stay, he doesn’t deserve her.”

  Daniel was in agreement with everything Beth had said. He wouldn’t have left her if he’d been in Noah’s position, and they’d apparently had more problems than his leaving. He’d tried to change her, but why?

  “Beth Plank, enough! We’ve told you not to discuss our personal business outside of our family.” Anna’s cheeks flamed bright pink.

  Mamm splayed her hand on the table. “Beth, you listen to Anna. You’ve said too much. Stop it.”

  Daniel stifled his smile at Beth’s innocence. “She means no harm. I won’t repeat anything Beth has told me.”

  Anna stared at her lap, then raised her eyes to meet his. “I’m sorry you are again being privy to our personal problems.”

  Leah spread butter on her biscuit, then passed the small bowl to Mamm. “We could use a change of subject. Mamm, your biscuits are better than usual tonight. Would you like butter?”

  “Jah, dear, danki. How was your day?”

  “We had a pleasant day at the shop. The customers were enjoyable, and the time moved fast. How about you?”

  “I stocked the shelves at the General Store today, and my back hurts a little, but the day was fine otherwise.” She stood and smiled. “I made apple pie for dessert.”

  Anna turned to Daniel. “You’re in for a treat. Mamm’s apple pie is the best in town.”

  Daniel found Leah’s attempt to change the conversation endearing. Evidence of their closeness was reflected in the easy way they related to one another. Tension must have built between Mrs. Plank and Leah over the incident concerning Butch. Raising her kinner alone must be hard for her. No man to help with the property, care for her, or lend advice. Anna’s poignant reaction to the exchange of conversation between Leah and her mamm had hit a soft spot in his heart. He couldn’t explain it. Anna had swooped in and stolen his heart the minute he’d walked into her shop. Each time he encountered her, a flutter of excitement filled him. The more he knew her, the more he liked her.

  Her delightful family brought back wonderful memories of conversations with his parents and bruder. Beth had confirmed his suspicions. Noah had left to fulfill his need for adventure, and Anna had declined to follow him. He smiled at Mrs. Plank. “Apple pie is a favorite of mine.”

  Beth rose and grinned at Daniel. “I’ll cut and serve the dessert.” She set the first piece in front of him. “Don’t be shy. We have plenty if you’d like a second piece.”

  Daniel chatted about selling his home in Lancaster after the untimely passing of his parents.

  Mrs. Plank collected his empty plate and paused. “I’m sorry, Daniel. You must’ve been devastated to lose your family at such a young age. Like Beth said, you are wilkom here anytime. Don’t be a stranger.”

  Beth forked a chunk of fragrant apple oozing with cinnamon-flavored syrup. “Daniel, did you consider marrying an Amish woman in Lancaster?”

  Anna gasped. “Beth Plank, where are your manners?” Dismay covered her sweet heart-shaped face.

  Mamm glared at her. “Beth, if you can’t behave, you’ll go to your room.”

  Clearing his throat, Daniel said, “Her question is a fair one, and I don’t mind answering it. I was busy working and hadn’t made the effort to meet anyone. I would like a fraa and kinner someday.”

  Beth grinned and nodded. “I want to marry Thomas Mast and have kinner someday too, but he doesn’t like to talk about marriage yet.”

  Daniel bit back a laugh. Beth was a cheerful and delightful maedel. She was determined to speak her opinion, in spite of her family’s warnings. He liked her forthrightness.

  Leah stretched and put a hand over her yawn. “Beth and I will do dishes. I’ll be back.” She returned a minute later with her written verses. “Mamm, here’s my assignment. I’m prepared to recite Psalm Chapter Twenty-three.”

  “Go ahead.”

  Leah recited the Psalm, Chapter Twenty-three.

  “Very good, Leah.” Mamm didn’t smile.

  “I’m grateful God knows our hearts and forgives our transgressions. I’ve prayed and asked Him for forgiveness, and I hope you can find it in your heart to forgive me too. I’m so ashamed, and I’m sorry, Mamm.” Leah stared at her trembling hands.

  “I hope so, Leah. Your actions were serious and could have scarred you mentally and physically for the rest of your life. I ask you to obey Amish rules for your safety and to teach you good values to live by. I love you, Leah. My heart would break if anything happened to you. I forgive you.”

  “I have learned my lesson, Mamm.”

  Daniel suspected Leah had passed her assignment to Mamm and recited the Bible verses in front of him to show her remorse since he had been privy to her trouble with Butch.

  Mamm nodded and reached for the half-empty serving dishes. “I’ll stow the leftovers and send some home with you, Daniel.”

  “I won’t turn them down. Danki.”

  Leah threw Anna a mischievous grin. “Anna, why don’t you show Daniel the pond and flowers we planted?”

  Leah had a sparkle in her eyes. She was definitely matchmaking and finding a reason for him and Anna to spend time alone together. He was grateful for her efforts and waited for Anna to answer. She might excuse herself and ask one of her schweschders to show him around. He hoped not.

  Anna gestured to the door. “Do you mind taking a walk?”

  “I’d be pleased to.” His heart pumped fast. There was no place he’d rather be than with her. He had a lot more to learn about her. Their walk would provide the opportunity.

  “The evening sun shines on the water like a blanket of shimmering glass. I enjoy the boppli ducklings paddling behind their mamm and scrambling to keep pace with her.” She pointed to the hyacinth not far from the pond. “We planted those. They’re doing well.” She gestured to the field of daisies. “Such a simple flower, but the white and yellow colors and its shape make it one of my favorites.”

  Daniel grinned. She delighted in the little things God created. His Amish friends in Lancaster were busy and let life pass them by. He’d mentioned how much he loved the beauty in flowers, the sun, and green pastures. They frowned and shook their heads as if he was out of his mind to waste time on such things. “I like them too. Early evening in the summer is pleasant. The balmy breeze, quiet water, and big orange sun lowering behind the trees are such a wonderful sight. God’s creations are amazing.”

  He wished he could sit in the same spot often and have discussions with her. He wanted them to have a special spot. Anna had affected him like no other woman. He couldn’t explain it. “My daed was too busy working from dawn to dusk to notice the beauty of nature. I’m glad you find joy in these things.”

  She picked up a small stone and threw it in the brush, avoiding his gaze. “Noah delighted in all God’s wonders too.”

  Her comment about Noah put an unwilkom damper on his hopes. “I’m sorry I didn’t have a chance to get better acquainted with Noah. Do you think he’ll return?”

  “I expect he will return to visit his mamm.”

  She hadn’t mentioned hoping Noah would return for her. Her gaze went to her feet and her voice was a notch above a whisper.

  Lifting her mood wouldn’t be easy, but he’d try. “The first night I found Otis on the side of the road and brought him home, he dragged every pillow I had in the haus into a pile and pulled them over top of him. I searched all morning to find him.”

  She laughed and met his gaze. “Otis sounds like a joy to have around.”

  “He is a good companion.” He ran his foot over a thick grassy patch. “Did you enjoy living in Lancaster?”

  “Lancaster was fine, but Berlin is a more close-knit community. Maybe it’s because I’m older, but I’m more comfortable in a smaller town and community. I have found getting acquainted with people here has been easier. I have no plans to
ever leave. What about you?”

  “I prefer a small community too. I’ll miss my friends, but I was so busy. I hardly had any time to spend with them. I plan to settle in Berlin.” It might not register with her at the present that he was planting roots here, but later, his revelation might matter to her if their friendship grew. He hoped so.

  The sun had lowered. He walked Anna back to the haus and bid the Planks farewell. Anna strolled to his wagon with him.

  “Danki for the delicious meal. I’ve enjoyed spending time with your family. I hope we’ll run into each other again.”

  “Stop by the shop or kumme for supper anytime. We’ve always got plenty, and Mamm loves to feed guests. You’ve made quite an impression on our family. She’ll be crushed if you don’t visit again.” She gave him a shy smile. “Mamm might think you didn’t like her cooking, and you wouldn’t want to hurt her feelings. Leah is thankful for what you did for her, and Beth took to you the minute she met you.”

  He was gratified by her small joke about her mamm’s cooking. She was inviting him back. He couldn’t help but think their friendship was growing. He unloaded the wood and stacked the pile in the woodshed. “I’ve got more wood. I’ll drop another pile off next week. Danki for your generous hospitality. I’ll say a word to your mamm before I leave.”

  They went inside.

  “Mrs. Plank, danki for supper.”

  “You’re wilkom. Don’t be a stranger.”

  Beth chuckled. “Jah, don’t be a stranger, Daniel.”

  He smiled, bid them farewell, and left.

  Anna walked him out. “Enjoy your ride home.”

  “Danki.” He grinned and waited until she went inside to step into his wagon. The barn’s white paint had faded. He’d offer to paint the building for them. Helping her family would give him an excuse to spend more time with Anna.

  Chapter Five

  Anna guided the horse out of the barn Monday morning and harnessed the docile animal to the buggy. The breach between Mamm and Leah had begun to heal sooner than she’d expected. The weekend had passed quickly. On Saturday morning at breakfast, Mamm had mentioned rotted wood siding needed replacing on the barn. Sunday afternoon, Daniel stopped by their haus and Mamm had mentioned it again in conversation. Daniel offered to repair and paint the building for them starting Wednesday. Anna enjoyed chatting with him on Sunday while they sipped fresh-squeezed lemonade. She was glad they had services every other week to allow them a full day of rest at home or to visit with friends on their day off from attending church.