Love Finds You in Charm, Ohio

by Annalisa Daughety

  Abby scrutinized her sister’s expression. “Is it harder than normal for you this year?”

  “Perhaps. I sort of enjoyed working in the shop and caring for the twins. It was a nice change of pace.” Emma filled the sink with warm water and added a few drops of liquid soap. “But I’m happy to be back with my students. They’ve had some adventures over the summer.”

  “They aren’t the only ones.” She glanced at Emma. “I’d say we’ve both had adventures this summer, too, wouldn’t you?”

  Emma offered a tiny smile. “What was your adventure, besides a bad sprain?”

  Abby stopped rinsing the dishes and turned to face Emma. It felt like there were jumping beans in her stomach. “Well, there’s something I wanted to tell you.” She took a deep breath. “Things have been going really well with me and Jacob.”

  “I was pretty sure you were going to say that. I noticed the happy look on your face as soon as I got out of Kelly’s car. I’d dare say you’ve turned into the daydreamer.” She finished the last of the dishes and leaned against the counter. “Is he as happy as you are?”

  Abby felt her cheeks flush. “I think so. Actually, I think… I mean, I know…we’re planning to be published in the fall.” She blurted the words out, hoping Emma would be happy for her.

  Emma squealed. “Oh, Abby. That’s truly wonderful news. I believe you will be very happy together.”

  “Is everything okay?” Mamm stuck her head in the kitchen. “I thought I heard a scream.”

  “Sorry. Everything is fine,” Emma said.

  The sisters exchanged glances. As soon as mamm left the room, they burst out laughing.

  “Why don’t you come into my room? I want to hear the details,” Emma said.

  Abby followed her down the hallway to her bedroom.

  Emma sat down on the bed, Abby in the rocker. “Well?” Emma asked.

  “You were right. All that stuff you told me in Charm, about how he was so worried he traveled to see me and all. That was exactly what happened.” She played with the tie on her kapp. “So we started spending time together. And I finally let myself believe that he could see me as something more than a kid sister.” She grinned. “It turned out, he did. He had for a long time. But I’d tried so hard to get the two of you together, he assumed I didn’t return his feelings.”

  Emma nodded. “How about that? If you hadn’t been so determined to be a matchmaker, you’d probably be married by now.”

  Abby shook her head. “Oh, now. Don’t say such a thing. I think it all just took some time for us to realize everything.” She sighed. “But I am sorry I tried so hard to push you together. Deep down, I knew you didn’t want me to, but I was so determined.”

  “Don’t worry about that. I know it was only because you wanted me to be happy here.” She met Abby’s gaze. “And I have a feeling you want to know what my feelings are about that.”

  “I’ve wanted to ask ever since you got back. But I’ve been worried I might not like the decision.” Abby tried to read Emma’s expression. Was she going to leave their family for good?

  “Actually, I have good news for you. I was able to do a lot of thinking this summer, and a lot of praying. I’m not proud of all of my actions over these past months. But the bottom line is that I’ve decided, with no question, that I want to remain here.” She ran her hand along the quilt on her bed. “I’m going to join the church this fall.”

  “Oh, Emma. That is wonderful news. I’m so glad you’re free from all the turmoil.”

  Emma’s eyes flashed with uncertainty, and Abby wondered what could be lingering beneath the surface. Although she knew she may very well wish she didn’t know, she decided to forge ahead. “What is it? You can tell me.”

  Emma sighed. “It isn’t a pretty story.”

  Abby rose from the chair and went to sit beside her sister. “It’s okay. Maybe it will help for you to get it out.” She sat in silence as Emma explained to her how she’d dressed in Kelly’s clothes. She felt the anger rise in her as Emma told of Andy’s forced kiss.

  “It sounds like a truly awful day,” Abby said, once she heard about Noah’s involvement. “Did you finally get to speak to him?” She’d only been around Noah a couple of times while she was in Charm, but she had seen the mutual admiration between him and Emma.

  “No.” Emma’s voice was glum. “He skipped my going-away meal, and he wasn’t at his work when I stopped by to see him on our way out of town.” She shook her head. “It isn’t any use. I believe he thinks the worst of me.” Emma hung her head. “I was too ashamed to even tell Lydia Ann.”

  Abby placed a hand over her sister’s. “I’ll pray for you to find the peace you need.”

  “Danki. Prayers are exactly what I need.” She stood. “In the meantime, I’d better get to bed. School comes early tomorrow.”

  “Good night, sister. I’m glad to have you home. For good.” Abby turned and headed toward her own bedroom. But not before she glanced back one last time at the sad look on Emma’s face. The first inkling of a plan began to form. Her sister deserved every happiness, and she would do all she could to see that she found it.

  Chapter Forty-eight

  Kelly

  Kelly was overwhelmed. She’d only been back in Columbus for a few days and already the tranquility she’d felt over the summer was nearly gone. After hours in line for registration, she was finally ready for classes to begin. She’d gone and bought her textbooks this afternoon, and even secondhand, they had cost a pretty penny. It seemed that the money she’d saved over the past months might go quickly.

  She flipped through the help-wanted ads, hoping something would jump out. It was time to find a part-time job to supplement her savings. She sighed. Things had certainly been simpler a week ago. Thankfully, Michelle was still on a late vacation with her family, so Kelly had the apartment to herself for a couple more days.

  She went into her room and sat down on the bed. The quilt she’d bought at Lydia Ann’s shop was draped over the foot of her sleigh bed. It perfectly complemented the blue and brown colors she’d chosen to decorate the room with. Her sky blue comforter was thick and plush, and the brown and blue striped accent pillows matched her curtains. She’d decorated the room in the hopes that it would offer a calm retreat. But right now, she wasn’t sure it was serving its purpose.

  Even the traffic was getting on her nerves. She could hear it right now, all those people trying to get home from work. She sighed. It was probably just anxiety over starting a new master’s program. She closed her eyes and tried to remember those yoga breathing exercises she’d learned at the gym last year. Or maybe she just needed to find a mantra. She opened her eyes and her gaze landed on the well-worn Bible Emma had given her.

  She picked the book up and stared at it in her hands. Memories of childhood VBS ran through her head. If you brought your Bible every day, you got a balloon at the end of the week.

  Kelly flipped the Bible open. An underlined verse sprang out at her from the middle of the page. Matthew 6:34. Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Hmm. Maybe she should try living that way. But wait. How would she possibly be able to stop worrying about the future?

  She read a few passages ahead, paying special attention to any of the verses Emma had underlined. She flipped the page and paused on Matthew 7:7–8. Ask, and it shall be given you; seek and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. Could she pray? She’d watched Emma pray all summer. Emma had told her God would always listen, would always be there, no matter what.

  Kelly bowed her head and was surprised at how easily the words came.

  On Sunday morning she sat in her SUV in the church parking lot. She felt more nervous than when she was going on a first date or speaking in public. Why was this so difficult? She’d gone to church with her parents as a child, but once she hit he
r teens, her family had rarely found the time to attend. And even then, it almost seemed more social than anything else. Her mother enjoyed going to brunch after the service with some of the other families. And her dad had always found a way to make business contacts. Even so, their attendance had tapered off as they became busier.

  She watched the families, walking inside together. The dads holding babies, moms leading toddlers by the hand. The teens seemed to gather outside and walk inside in small groups. Kelly took a deep breath. She could do this. Just because she didn’t know anyone didn’t mean she couldn’t go in. She’d prayed that God would give her the courage to take the first step. And here she was.

  She climbed out of the SUV, hoping she looked okay. Her black skirt came just below the knees, showing just a hint of a summer tan. She’d chosen an emerald green cap-sleeved sweater, because whenever she wore it, people always commented on how green her eyes were. She stood beside her vehicle for a long moment, watching the throng of people enter the building. Everyone was dressed up. Maybe not in designer fashion, but she could tell they were all trying to look their best.

  “Miss Bennett?” A voice behind her caused her to jump. She turned.

  The petite woman walking toward her looked vaguely familiar. “Good morning.” The woman gave a bright smile. “I believe you’re in my Foundations of Library Science class.”

  “Dr. Lewis. It’s nice to see you.” Kelly smiled. Though the class had only met once, she’d been impressed by the instructor’s friendly manner in class. It looked like it carried outside of the classroom as well.

  “I don’t believe I’ve seen you here before. Are you visiting?”

  Kelly nodded. “Yes, ma’am. This is my first time here.”

  “Well, we’re glad to have you. There’s a fairly large singles’ group with lots of people your age. I’d be glad to show you where their class is.”

  “That would be great, thanks.” Kelly walked beside her professor toward the brown brick building.

  “It is nice to have you visit with us. I hope you’ll consider making New Hope your church home.” The older woman held the door open for Kelly and ushered her inside. “And don’t hesitate to seek me out if you need anything.”

  “That’s very nice of you.” Kelly smiled back at the friendly faces that passed her by. Many of them called out greetings to Dr. Lewis.

  “Here we are.” Dr. Lewis paused outside of a set of double doors. “They are a fun group. You should make friends with no trouble.” She smiled again at Kelly. “And don’t worry, dear. It is the beginning of a new semester, and that means there will be a lot of new faces in there. You won’t be the only one.”

  Kelly thanked her and entered the large room, with rows of seats. Several people were already seated, and others stood around the perimeter, laughing and talking. She spotted a girl sitting alone, a worried expression on her face. Looks like she’d found another newcomer. She made her way over to where the girl sat. The first step, just coming inside the building, was over. Now that she was here, she knew she could handle it.

  Chapter Forty-nine

  Emma

  Getting back into the swing of things hadn’t been easy for Emma. She only hoped her students hadn’t figured out that her mind was miles away, still in Charm. But she finally felt like she’d settled into a routine, and for that, she was thankful. Rising early and reading the Psalms, breakfast with the family, and then heading to school. Her days were happy.

  She was relieved that her old discontent about her life was gone. In its place was a deep appreciation for the life with which she’d been blessed. A family that had remained closely knit. Parents who still loved each other. Friends and church members who would be willing to pitch in and help if she were ever in trouble. Yes, it was the life for her. The Lord had blessed her more than she deserved.

  And she was happy for Abby and Jacob and the new life they would soon begin. Even though there had been some murmuring within their community, it seemed that everyone accepted that Emma was perfectly fine with the turn of events.

  The only thing that prevented Emma from being totally content was the lingering memory of Noah. Even though she wouldn’t admit it to anyone, every time a letter came in the mail, she hada tiny glimmer of hope that his would be the name on the return address. But the letters that came her way were from Lydia Ann or Kelly. Not that she would complain. She loved hearing about what was going on with the two of them. As happy as she was at home now, she still missed them. Every now and then, she would pull out the painting Kelly had given her. She loved the colors the artist had chosen. It was almost as if she could feel the emotion that had gone into the artwork.

  She sat in the porch swing alone and looked out into the distance. She was surprised to notice the leaves beginning to change. It was time to face it. Summer was really a thing of the past. The calendar was already on October, after all. Where had the time gone?

  “Lost in thought?” Abby joined her on the porch.

  Emma sighed. “I was just realizing that it isn’t summer any longer.”

  Abby chuckled. “You’re just now noticing that? I’ve already had to get an extra quilt out for my bed.” She motioned toward the large oak tree in the front yard. “Not to mention the colorful leaves everywhere.”

  “I guess I’ve just been distracted.”

  “Guess what? I have a surprise for you. I think it’s going to make you very happy.” Abby buzzed with excitement.

  Emma looked warily at her sister. “What have you done?”

  Abby sank onto the porch swing beside her sister, causing it to lurch backwards.

  “Whoa, Abby. Don’t knock us off the swing.”

  Abby giggled. “Sorry.” Her face glowed. “Do you know what this weekend is?”

  Emma thought for a moment. She couldn’t come up with a single birthday or other special occasion that would be taking place. “No. But I’m almost afraid to find out.”

  “It’s Charm Days.” Abby’s blue eyes twinkled. “Doesn’t that sound like fun?”

  “Lydia Ann and Noah both mentioned the festival while I was there. And it did sound like it would be nice.” She shrugged. “But what does that have to do with us?”

  “I’ve arranged for a driver to come pick us up in the morning.” Abby practically shouted the words. “We’re going to stay with Lydia Ann. And I contacted Kelly. She’s going to be there, too.”

  “Oh, Abby. I have to work tomorrow. You know that.”

  Abby’s smile was so wide it showed most of her teeth. “I’ve gotten someone to cover for you.”

  Emma was astonished. And not totally on board. “But you don’t like to travel.”

  “Oh, Emma. Lighten up.” Abby laughed. “I never thought I’d have to say that to you. But you’ve been a little sad these past weeks. I think another trip to Charm is just what you need.”

  Emma’s stomach churned. A trip to Charm may mean a run-in with Noah. And she wasn’t sure if she could handle his rejection. She looked over at Abby, who was quite pleased with her surprise. Emma couldn’t help but grin at her sister. She certainly did try to keep everyone happy.

  “Okay. I’m at least impressed with your spontaneity. And with your being able to keep all that a secret from me. When did you talk to Kelly?”

  “I got her address from one of the letters she sent you. I mailed her the quilt shop’s phone number and asked her to call me. She was excited about the surprise and said she can’t wait to see you.”

  Emma shook her head. “You’ve really thought of everything.”

  “Pretty soon I’ll be married and living in my own house. I thought a trip together sounded fun.”

  “It does. Thanks for the surprise.”

  Abby patted her on the leg. “Now, go get packed. My things are already in the suitcase. We leave first thing in the morning.”

  Emma watched as her sister rose from the swing and went inside. Abby never ceased to amaze her.

  As soon as they were on t
he outskirts of Charm, Emma felt a lump in her throat. She couldn’t help but be flooded with memories. Meeting Kelly in the bookmobile. Spending time with Lydia Ann and the girls. Realizing that Andy was not a good guy. And of course, somewhere along the way, falling for Noah only to see it all blow up. She let out a heavy sigh.

  “Are you okay?” Abby asked.

  “Jah. I’m fine. Just a little nervous, I guess.”

  “I have faith that everything will turn out fine. It will be nice to see your friends again, won’t it?”

  Emma nodded. It would be nice to see everyone again. But what if Noah didn’t want to see her? Or even worse, what if he’d heard she was coming for a visit so he’d made it a point to be out of town? Only time would tell.

  They pulled up in front of Lydia Ann’s shop. The van driver got out and helped them with their bags. Abby thanked him for his service and reminded him of when and where they needed to be picked up.

  The familiar sound of the jingling bell went off as they entered the store.

  “Hi.” Lydia Ann bustled toward them, relieving Abby of the bag she carried. “I’m so glad you decided to come for Charm Days.” She gestured toward the people browsing the aisles. “Things are already very busy. In fact, I’ve got some extra helpers for the weekend.”

  Emma noticed two teenaged Amish girls behind the counter, one helping a customer and the other folding merchandise. “That’s good. We can pitch in to help if you need us.”

  Lydia Ann shook her head. “Oh, no. I want you both to enjoy yourselves. In fact, I thought I’d run home and we could have lunch. Then you can go see some of the festivities while I tend to things at the shop.”

  Emma and Abby nodded. Soon they were settled in Lydia Ann’s kitchen, eating a delicious meal. Abby chattered about Jacob and their plans for the future.

  Emma was lost in thoughts of Noah. If she did see him, what would she say? What would he say? Suddenly, the silence of the room caught her attention. She looked up from her food. Both Lydia Ann and Abby were staring at her with strange expressions on their faces.