by Molly Jebber
She nodded and went outside. “Oh, Daniel, I’m so happy. November fifth can’t kumme soon enough.”
“I agree, my lovely Anna.” He brushed her fingers with his. “I’m sorry to rush off, but I would like to speak with Noah on my way home. I’m not sure when he plans on leaving for Lancaster, and I’d like to have one more conversation with him before he heads out.”
“You’re a good man, Daniel Bontrager.”
He hugged her and left.
He went to the Schwartzes’ haus. Noah was out front on the porch with his mamm.
He climbed out of the wagon and tied it to the post. “Good evening, Noah and Mrs. Schwartz.”
Noah waved him onto the porch. “Join us for hot tea.”
His mamm stood. “I’ll go get another mug. I’m certain it’s still warm. I haven’t been out here long.”
Daniel tipped his hat. “Danki.” He sat in the worn maple chair opposite Noah. “I’m here to talk to you about Anna.”
Mrs. Schwartz returned and passed Daniel a mug. “I’ve written down my new address in Lancaster for Anna. I may not have a chance to give it to her. Would you mind seeing she gets it?”
“I’d be happy to give it to her. I’m certain she’ll miss you, Mrs. Schwartz.”
“I will miss her, too. I’ll go inside. Noah will want to share our plans with you. I have a few more things to pack.”
“I wish you the best, Mrs. Schwartz.”
“Danki for all you did to help my son during his trying time with Mrs. Tisdale and Mrs. Foster.”
“I’m glad it’s over and he can put it behind him.”
“Me too.” She smiled and went inside the haus.
Daniel waited until Mrs. Schwartz was out of earshot. “I’ve got some news I wanted you to hear from me. Anna’s agreed to marry me. I’ve already been to the bishop’s to tell him.”
“Have you set the date?”
“November fifth. He’ll announce the date to everyone next Sunday.”
“I’m sad for me but happy for you, my friend. She’s a wonderful woman. You’re blessed to have her in your life. Take good care of her.”
“I will.” He pressed his back against the chair. “I didn’t want you to avoid us. You’re wilkom in our home anytime. If you need help with anything, I don’t want you to hesitate to ask me.”
“Did Anna tell you about my returning to Lancaster?”
“She mentioned you are leaving Berlin but not a date.”
“Mamm and I have said our good-byes. We’re leaving Tuesday.”
Daniel’s eyebrows raised. “Tomorrow?”
“Jah, I figured a Tuesday would be as good as any day to travel. I told Mark I want to return to Lancaster. He understood and, together, we approached another young man to take over my job. He accepted, and I’ve had time to get ready to leave.
“I asked Mamm to join me. She agreed to sell her property and relocate with me. I asked Mr. Zook to take care of the property until we have a buyer, and he bought the property, plus everything else Mamm didn’t want to take with her, for a good price. We are pleased. She’ll enjoy reuniting with my aunt and uncle, and we’ll benefit from being together. There are plenty of shops in town if she wants to work. She enjoys the bakery here. Leaving our friends is difficult, but we’ll write letters and visit.” Noah sipped his tea. “I was going to make a life in Berlin for Anna’s sake, but I’m anxious to go back to Lancaster.”
“Anna and I wish you and Mrs. Schwartz the best, Noah.”
“I could tell by Anna’s demeanor she’d changed while I was away. Even after she’d put her confusion with my return aside, she was distant. Not in a rude way, but reserved. I hoped she’d get over the hurt I caused her and return to me, but all along I think I knew it was too late. I didn’t want to admit we’d grown apart, wanting different things. I worked hard to change her to be more like me. It was selfish and unrealistic.”
“Do you regret leaving Berlin?”
“In one way I do because I hurt Anna. In another way I don’t, because reuniting with my aunt and uncle was wonderful. My uncle is a talented farmer. He’s remarkable with growing crops and maintaining healthy livestock. He experiments with different feed for them and has little tricks he does to grow good crops. He likes to whittle toys and build potato boxes, chests, and tables. We have a lot in common, and we’ve grown close.”
“I’m happy for you. I miss my family.”
“Jonathan was brokenhearted after Adele passed until the day he died. They adored each other. Their devotion was written all over their faces anytime I encountered them.” He patted the small table next to him. “My daed built this table. I miss him.”
“Having the assurance my parents are in Heaven eases my pain, but I mourned them for quite a while. I broke down in tears without warning at the oddest times. When I picked up Mamm’s favorite cup or Daed’s favorite blanket. Cleaning out the haus was the worst. I’d healed pretty well until I came here and emptied Jonathan’s place.”
“I’m sorry, Daniel. Had Jonathan gotten rid of Adele’s things? I can’t imagine him parting with them.”
“He left everything as if she were still living there. I knew her when they lived in Lancaster before they married. She was a sweetheart. It pained me to let go of her things too, but I’m glad I’m getting rid of her things, rather than Jonathan having to have endured the pain to part with them. I can understand why he wanted her belongings around him. She was such a part of him.”
“I believe you’ll have the same type of relationship with Anna. I hope to have the same loving relationship with the woman I find to marry someday too.” Noah cleared his throat. “I’ll never forget what you did for me, defending my honor against the women who accused me of thievery.”
“You handled the situation well.”
“In spite of what happened with Anna, you’ve been a good friend to me. I don’t regret meeting you, and I hold you in high regard.”
“I’m glad things are working out for you and your mamm. Is there anything I can do to help?”
“Kumme to the barn with me. I have something to show you.”
Daniel followed him to the barn.
Noah uncovered an oak desk and chair.
The craftsmanship was perfect. “Your work is superb.”
“I want you and Anna to have this. I didn’t build it for her and me. I made the desk and chair before I left to sell in Mark’s store. I ran short on time and didn’t take the furniture to him. I forgot about the pieces once I moved.”
“Noah, are you sure you don’t want to sell these fine pieces?”
“No. Take them. I’d be pleased if you’d accept the gift.”
“You’re being generous. Danki.”
“You’re wilkom. I wish you and Anna a happy life.”
Daniel offered his hand.
Noah pulled him into a quick, manly hug. “Stopping by was a good idea. I enjoyed our conversation. Let me help you put your gift in the wagon before you leave.”
Daniel and Noah hauled the furniture to his wagon and put them in the back.
Noah smiled. “I wish you and Anna much happiness. I’m glad to have met you, Daniel. Give Anna and her family my best.”
“I will. Best wishes to you and your mamm, Noah. Travel safe.”
He waved and smiled at Noah as he drove away.
Chapter Fourteen
Daniel headed to his neighbor’s haus Tuesday and built new porch steps for him. Noah and his mamm would’ve left early this morning for Lancaster. He hoped they wouldn’t have any problems traveling to their destination. Daniel was glad he and Anna could put this ordeal with Noah behind them. All three of them could begin life anew.
He went home, milked the cows, and fed the rest of the animals. He worked in the garden a little, picked some ripe tomatoes, and made a ham sandwich. Anna would be interested in his conversation with Noah. He’d head over there as soon as he cleaned up.
While he drove to Anna’s, his heart fluttered
. His parents, Jonathan, and Adele would have adored Anna. They would’ve enjoyed being a part of the Plank family. He couldn’t dwell on what wasn’t meant to happen. He had a new family. He was grateful to have them.
He tied his horse to the post. The Planks were outside. They must’ve just finished their chores after work. They came to greet him.
Anna bounced Daisy on her hip. “Are you hungry? We saved you venison and boiled potatoes for supper.”
He kissed Daisy’s hand. “You’re a sweetheart, Daisy.” He gazed at Anna. “No, danki, I’m full. I devoured a ham sandwich earlier. I was really hungry.”
“How did your conversation go with Noah?”
“We had a pleasant discussion. He was grateful for my support of him with Mrs. Tisdale and Mrs. Foster. I enjoyed my time with him. I wished him and his mamm the best.” He handed her Jane’s note. “Here’s their address in Lancaster.”
“When are they leaving?”
“He and his mamm left for Lancaster this morning. Mr. Zook bought their property, and they were anxious to reunite with their relatives.” He smiled.
“I didn’t have a chance to talk to Jane before then. I’ll send her a note.”
Daniel was glad Anna wasn’t distressed to discover Noah had left. He didn’t think she would be, but he was grateful for her casual demeanor about the matter. “I’m certain she gave me the address so you would stay in touch with her.”
Mamm and Leah remained quiet.
Beth grinned. “Everything is working out good for everybody. Isn’t that good?”
Anna gave her a loving look. “Jah, it is, little schweschder.”
Beth tugged on his sleeve and pointed. “What’s in the back of your wagon?”
He’d left the gift of furniture in his wagon to show them. “Noah gave us a present. Kumme to the wagon.”
They peeked inside.
Anna gasped and ran her hand over the oak desk and chair. “The table and chair are beautiful! Noah is a talented craftsman.” She turned to Daniel. “Are you comfortable with us accepting his gift?”
“Jah. I’m humbled he gave the set to us. He is a gentleman and a kind man. In spite of what we’ve been through over loving you, we genuinely like each other. I think we’d have been close friends, and we would’ve spent a lot of time together in the future under other circumstances, but as it is, we parted amicably.”
Mamm smiled. “I respect you, Daniel Bontrager. Reaching an understanding with Noah to smooth over things between the two of you before he left was an honorable task. I’m going inside and get some sewing done. You two enjoy this beautiful evening.”
Leah took Daisy from Anna, and Beth kissed the boppli’s fingers.
“I’m happy things have worked out this way. It’s best for all of you.” Leah patted Daisy’s back. “I’ll give this one a bottle and put her to bed.”
“Danki, Leah.” Anna kissed Daisy’s forehead and hugged Leah.
Daniel led her to their spot at the pond. He traced her cheek. “Noah left on a good note, and he’s moving on with his life. We have the reassurance we’ve parted with him without any ill will.” His eyes full of affection, he leaned close. “I’m counting the days until I can call you Anna Bontrager.” He wanted Anna’s mind free of any doubt he and Noah had any bad feelings between them. He suspected her desire was that no one would harbor any bad feelings at the end of this. He would’ve done anything for her. Talking to Noah was easy. Losing her would’ve been the hardest thing he’d ever experienced, and he’d suffered a lot of pain in his young life.
* * *
Daniel finished his breakfast the following Sunday morning. This past week he’d been busy catching up on his customers’ repairs. He felt guilty for admitting it, but he was happy Noah had left to start a new life in Berlin. His absence from Berlin gave him and Anna a fresh beginning. He was ready for November fifth to arrive. He couldn’t wait to call Anna his fraa. Reaching over, he scratched Otis’s ear. “Anna will be living here soon. You and Cotton will be family. You’ll visit the Planks often.”
His family would’ve been so happy for him today. He’d never forget when he’d been told his parents had been killed. The pain had eased over time, but the longing to hug them once again lingered. Adele’s and Jonathan’s deaths were no less tragic or painful. The verses in the Bible explaining about Heaven had brought him comfort. His family was happy and healthy and he’d be with them again someday. This truth got him through these sad moments.
Daniel whistled while he dressed into a clean white shirt and black pants and snapped his already attached suspenders over his shoulders. He harnessed his horse to the wagon and drove to the church barn.
* * *
Anna couldn’t wait for Bishop Weaver to announce their news to their friends either before or after the message in this morning’s Sunday church service. After their wedding date was announced, it would be exciting to discuss plans for the wedding meal.
She didn’t regret not seeing Noah again before he left. There was nothing more to say. She had made her peace with Noah the day she told him she wasn’t in love with him. They’d had a good conversation and wished each other well. It had been almost a week since Noah had left. His departure under good circumstances allowed her a free conscience and to enjoy her upcoming life with Daniel with no regrets or guilt. She’d gotten up early and written a danki note to Noah for his gift and a separate note to Jane telling her she’d miss her. She’d drop them at the post office in the morning before work. She’d meant to do it earlier, but this week had been busy.
She spotted Daniel and waited for him. “Good morning, my soon-to-be husband. I finally got around to writing a danki note to Noah from us, and one from me to Jane. I’ll drop them by the post office tomorrow morning.”
“I’m not sure when they’ll arrive, but they’ll enjoy your notes. I’m going to like hearing you call me ‘husband’ after we’re married. I’m excited the bishop will let our friends and neighbors know you and I will be married right here on November fifth.” He shrugged and grinned. “I wish I didn’t have to wait until then!”
She chuckled. “Me either, but we’ll make the best of it. There’s a lot to do!”
They went inside.
Daniel sat with the men on one side of the barn.
Anna joined her family already seated on the other side with the women. She nodded to Grace and Sarah before sitting on the worn wooden bench. A sea of black dresses and white kapps filled one half of the church, and on the men’s side, an ocean of men’s black hats decorated the other.
Bishop Weaver stepped to the front, led them in song, and opened his Bible. “Please turn with me to John, Chapter One, Verse Nine. ‘If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.’”
Bishop Weaver delivered the message. “Please bow your heads for prayer.” He prayed and opened his eyes. “Please remain seated. I have two announcements. First, Anna Plank met a woman with child and her grossmudder in her shop a short time ago. The woman’s husband left her when he found out she was with child. The woman has since died in childbirth, and the grossmudder is not in good health and is unable to care for the boppli. She left Daisy with a note to Anna telling her this information. She included a document signed by the boppli’s daed giving up all rights to the child. The Plank family graciously took the child in to raise. Please meet Daisy today before you leave.”
Friends turned and smiled and nodded at Anna and her family, who nodded and grinned in return. Most of their friends and neighbors had heard through the gossip chain about Daisy.
The bishop removed his spectacles and pulled a handkerchief out of his pocket. He wiped the sweat from the bridge of his nose. “Second, Daniel Bontrager and Anna Plank have set a date for their wedding. Daisy will live with them after they are married.”
Excited gasps riveted through the crowd. Grace and Sarah smiled wide at Anna.
“The date will be November fift
h. The harvest will be finished, and it will be a good time for the wedding.” He offered another prayer of thanks to God for the after-service food and dismissed them.
Grace hugged Anna. “Congratulations! I’m so happy for you. Now we can make your wedding plans out in the open.”
Sarah patted her arm. “I’m thrilled for you too. I’ll bring boiled potatoes, carrots, and green beans.”
Anna beamed. “You can bring whatever you desire, but perhaps we should start a list to keep track of food donations.”
Anna sat with her friends, and they discussed what food to cook for the after-wedding meal. The men had Daniel cornered, and he looked happy. They were having a wonderful day.
* * *
Anna rose from her bed and peeked out the window. The bright sun warmed her face, and the birds chirping was a wilkom noise. September and October had passed quickly leading up to her wedding day. She had stayed home with Daisy and Beth. Mamm and Leah had taken over managing Grace’s Dry Goods Shop. Grace, Sarah, and her other friends had visited and oohed and aahed over Daisy. They wished her the best and had committed to bringing a number of meats, vegetables, potatoes, and desserts to the wedding meal. The boppli was such a pleasant and content little maedel. She and Beth had more alone time when Daisy napped. She loved her family, but she was ready to become Mrs. Bontrager and start a future with Daniel. Today was her wedding day. She could hardly believe it. November fifth would forever be a very important date to her.
She touched her white kapp. Leah had done an excellent job. She’d treasure the delicate bonnet for years to kumme.
Beth had stitched her two kitchen towels, and the stitches were a little crooked but she’d done a good job. She ran her hand over them. Her little schweschder was growing up fast. She had worked hard on the precious gifts, and the gesture warmed her heart.
Mamm had stitched her dark blue dress. She held it and swayed. Her handiwork was perfect. She couldn’t ask for a better mamm to have prepared and taught her how to be a good fraa. She’d written on paper Anna’s favorite recipes and given them to her in a little wooden box she’d purchased from the store of Grace’s husband, Mark King. She would make good use of them.