- Book info
- Sample
- Media
- Author updates
- Lists
Synopsis
A loaf of fragrant cinnamon bread for breakfast...a sweet and creamy custard pie for dessert. In 1912 Ohio, the Amish Charm Bakery has something to delight locals and visiting Englischer alike. And within this warm, welcoming community, there's always room for love to grow....
Hannah Lapp's life, like a long-cherished recipe, is satisfying just the way it is. She enjoys whipping up desserts at the bakery, tutoring local children, and socializing with dear friends. One of those friends, Timothy Barkman, has made his interest in Hannah clear, but she's been in no hurry to change her circumstances.
No sooner does she feel ready to grow closer to hard-working, handsome Timothy than Hannah finds she may have waited too long. Charlene Shetler intends to become Timothy's fraa. It's little wonder he's attracted to such a pretty, forthright young woman, but is the newcomer all that she seems? Only when Hannah is willing to confront some difficult truths can she move bravely toward a life of abiding faith and love....
Release date: January 28, 2020
Publisher: Zebra Books
Print pages: 336
* BingeBooks earns revenue from qualifying purchases as an Amazon Associate as well as from other retail partners.
Reader buzz
Please log in to recommend or discuss...
Author updates
Close
Hannah's Courage
Molly Jebber
Charm, Ohio, 1913
Hannah Lapp unhooked her apron from the wooden peg on the bakery wall, slipped it over her head, and tied it behind her. She poured flour from the sack and filled the near-empty canister on the worktable centered in the room. She nodded to the calendar and gave Ellie an impish grin. “It’s May thirteenth. You’ve been married about three months. Are you used to being Mrs. Joel Wenger?”
“I am, and I love being married. He’s a good partner. Listen, best friend, it’s time for you to put Timothy out of his misery. The man has asked you a number of times to have a serious conversation about a possible future with him. You should tell him how you feel. We should be planning your wedding.”
Hannah grimaced. She’d been cautious about Timothy. She’d considered him immature, fun-loving, and having a not-a-care-in-the-world attitude last year. The past few months he’d surprised her. He’d saved money from doing handyman jobs to build a haus, and he’d prepared land his parents had given him to farm. She’d misjudged him. He had set goals, and he’d achieved them.
“I plan to have the conversation with Timothy about our future the next time we’re together. The conversation you’ve badgered me for weeks to have with him.”
“When?” Ellie measured a cup of flour and dumped it in her bowl.
He’d been absent the last few times she visited his family, and he hadn’t stopped in the bakery the last several weeks. He’d left right after the service before she had a chance to speak to him. They had a service every other Sunday. Would he avoid her at the next service? She sensed something was wrong. Hannah selected her ingredients for a piecrust. “I planned to hint we should take a walk after I helped his little bruder, Aaron, with his schoolwork last night. I stayed for supper, but Timothy never showed. He’s usually always there when I kumme to help Aaron.” Each day she expected him to visit her at the bakery. This was the longest they’d gone without speaking. She’d been nervous about where they stood for the first time.
“Did his mamm say why he wasn’t there?” Ellie added another cup of sugar to the butter cookie dough.
“She said he may have lost track of time working on his haus. The same excuse she’s been giving me. She broke eye contact with me, stared at her meat loaf and potatoes, and spoke one step above a whisper this time. She’s hiding something.” Hannah winced. “I may have worn out Timothy’s patience with me.”
Ellie selected a wooden spoon from the maple utensil holder. “The Barkmans would make such good in-laws, and Aaron loves you like a schweschder.”
“They treat me like family.” Hannah scooped out her dough on the table and patted it into a rough circle. “I’ve kept him at arm’s length for too long. He’s losing interest in me. I can feel it.” She didn’t like change, and she hadn’t been in any hurry to wed. She loved working at the bakery, spending time with her family and friends, and enjoying Timothy’s company at social events. She loved him, but she’d changed the subject and avoided being alone with him to put off any serious conversations about a courtship. Since Ellie had been happily married to Joel, she’d been thinking about what it would be like being wed to Timothy.
“I hope not. I’ll be sad if this doesn’t work out for you.” Ellie stirred her cookie dough.
Hannah reached for the rolling pin. Joel and Timothy had formed a close friendship. She wasn’t sure if Timothy would discuss her with Joel or not. It didn’t hurt to ask. “Has Timothy said anything to Joel about me? If you’d rather not say, I’ll understand. I don’t want you to betray Joel’s confidence.”
Ellie rolled butter cookie dough in balls and set them on a baking tray. She swiped the dough onto her finger and put it in her mouth and winked. “I like the batter as much as the baked cookies.” She poured water from a porcelain pitcher in the sink, washed her hands, and rinsed the bowl. “In the past couple of weeks, Joel hasn’t had a chance to work with Timothy much. We’ve had so much to do at our place.” Ellie’s face clouded, and she stopped talking.
Why had Ellie taken her time to respond? She had something on her mind. “Why are you acting strange? Did Joel say something you’re hesitant to tell me?” Hannah rested her palms on the rolling pin.
“No. I’m sure it’s nothing.” Ellie put her tray of cookies in the oven and glanced at the clock. “Don’t let me forget those cookies. They should be done in about ten minutes.” She grabbed the molasses bottle. “Joel did check on Timothy twice last week, and he wasn’t at his property. Joel found it odd, since he’s been in such a hurry to get it done.”
It was odd. Timothy had worked hard at his place and mentioned he’d missed dinner most of the time to complete a project. She’d felt guilty declining to go on picnics and buggy rides with him since he was willing to spare time for her. The last couple of weeks, he’d stopped asking. Hannah’s throat clenched.
She listened to Ellie talk about Joel making her coffee in the morning and the ice haus he planned to build. Ellie was right. She and Timothy should be having discussions about their expectations for a partner and the number of kinner they each desired. They would be if she hadn’t taken for granted he’d always be there when she was ready to commit.
Hannah turned to Magdelena entering the kitchen. “Magdelena, I should tell you more often how much I appreciate you kumming to work with us right after Liza quit. You’re always on time, and Ellie and I are fortunate to have you here.”
Ellie smiled. “You’ve become a good friend in a short time with your openness and sweet disposition. You fit right in.”
Magdelena blushed. “I love working in the bakery with both of you. Danki.”
“How’s your little schweschder, Charity?” Hannah grinned.
“She’s a handful.” Magdelena rolled her eyes. “She insisted she had to take Peter a sandwich before she’d leave for school. Mamm told her Liza would fix her son a proper dinner. Charity wouldn’t budge until she’d won. Mamm gave in to her so I wouldn’t be late dropping her off and kumming here. My little schweschder is stubborn and spoiled.”
Ellie mixed a batch of molasses cookies ingredients. “My little bruder, Peter, loves Charity. He talks about her a lot.”
Magdelena held a hand to her heart. “Charity adores him.” She leaned against the side of the open doorway. “I’ve been anxious to tell you I met our new neighbor, Loretta Shetler. She brought us a package of sliced sugar-cured ham. Delicious. She and her family moved to Charm from Somerset, Pennsylvania. She’s a kind and gentle soul.”
“How many kinner does she have?” Hannah had passed by the haus weeks ago and noticed cows in the pasture. She hadn’t caught a glimpse of anyone outside. Her mamm had mentioned a family had bought and moved into the place.
“She has one dochder, nineteen. Charlene. I’m glad she’s close to our ages. Maybe we’ll get to know her and she’ll kumme to one of our baking socials.”
Hannah put her piecrust in the pan, trimmed it, and set it aside. She should make a point to wilkom Charlene Shetler to the community. She could introduce her to friends and her family. The adjustment of moving from one familiar location to a strange one could be difficult. “Did her mamm say why Charlene didn’t tag along with her?”
“She stayed home with her grossmudder. They’ve missed Sunday services because the grossmudder has been very ill. Charlene has the responsibility for her care. Loretta said she didn’t feel comfortable leaving the two women alone much since her mudder-in-law has been worse.” Magdelena grabbed the tray of blueberry tarts on the counter. “Hannah, Loretta mentioned they’d met Timothy. She said he’d passed their haus and noticed their horse escaping the corral. He returned the horse to them and fixed the gate. He’s been over to help them several times.”
Ellie spooned her sticky molasses dough onto a clean tray. “They’ll learn Timothy will put others’ needs before his own. He’s a talented handyman. Give him a difficult repair problem, and he’ll find the best way to fix it.”
Hannah removed yesterday’s bread from a top cabinet, arranged it in a basket, and balanced it on her hip. “He’s outgoing, and it’s no surprise he’d meet new neighbors before everyone else. He’s also nosey.” She chuckled.
Magdelena stood in the kitchen and narrowed her eyes. “You will lose a good man if you don’t listen to Ellie and me and tell him soon you are in love with him.”
“I plan to.” She had loyal and loving friends who cared about her, and they had her best interests at heart. Ellie and Magdelena insisted she had too much love to give. She was ready to find out.
“Don’t assume anything. Communication is important. You haven’t given him much hope you want more than friendship. You should be clear about why you are ready now to build a future with him,” Magdelena said.
Hannah nodded.
Magdelena headed for the front. “I should return to the counter. More customers have arrived.” She turned to greet the patrons. “Ladies, what can I offer you this morning?”
Hannah followed Magdelena and smiled at the Englischers. “Thank you for kumming in.”
Two thin and tall Englischers scanned the shop. They had their curls pinned in an elegant style and wore pretty, ankle-length dresses, showing a little too much chest. “Liza’s Amish Charm Bakery is a clever name for your business. Are you Liza?”
Hannah balanced her basket of bread on her hip. “She’s my aunt, and she quit to care for her boppli. She’s left us in charge of the shop. Her recipes are why our goodies are popular.”
“Stella, they have cinnamon loaves. You love to warm cinnamon bread in the morning to have with coffee.”
“Judith, what a splendid idea.” She pointed to the bread. “I must have a loaf.” Stella swiveled and looked around the bakery. “I like your white tables and spindle chairs. The shelves filled with jams and fruit complements your bread assortment and adds color. Simple and plain but perfect. I would imagine the men and children like to sit at your side counter.”
Magdelena took the soft and cinnamon-scented loaf from Hannah’s basket. “We have regular patrons who claim their stools or chairs each morning, like the sheriff and Dr. Harrison. Kinner like to sit there, too.”
“I could help you add more charm to this bakery, if you let me.” Stella tapped a finger on her chin and scanned the room again.
Judith rolled her eyes. “There she goes again. I apologize, girls. My sister can’t walk in a room without going over every detail.”
Magdelena blushed and looked at Hannah.
Hannah stepped to the ladies. Shy Magdelena Beachy hadn’t mastered the art of politely rejecting Englischers’ offers to do nonacceptable things for the Amish. Hannah didn’t mind. Magdelena worked hard at the bakery and charmed most of the customers. She was glad Liza had hired her. They’d become close friends. “Danki for your generous offer. Our Amish tradition and lifestyle is to keep things in our homes and stores plain. And it gives us more room for desserts to offer to our customers. As our gift, please accept some sugar cookies for your first-time patronage.”
Magdelena lifted the glass dome on the counter, removed two cookies, and handed each lady one.
Stella accepted her cookie. “Thank you. I do tend to get carried away. I hope I haven’t offended you.”
“No. We’re pleased you stopped in.” Hannah waved a dismissive hand.
Judith pointed to the shelf. “I’ll take a custard pie and a cinnamon roll.” Judith heaved a big sigh. “Stella loves to create outrageous pillows with ribbon, lace, and bows. She doesn’t have room for them, and no one wants to buy them. She needs a new hobby.” She shrugged. “Stella, you should bake.”
“I have friends who love my pillows. I like giving them as gifts. You don’t have to like them. I’m not interested in baking. I’d rather buy desserts.” Stella glowered at Judith.
“Sounds like you’re talented.” Hannah stooped and filled the shelf with her breads.
“Thank you, dear. I’m glad someone appreciates my creativity.” Stella smirked at Judith.
Magdelena wrapped their purchases and accepted payment. “Kumme back and visit us.”
“We will.” The ladies thanked them and fussed about where to go next as they left.
“I had no idea how to respond to the Englischer when she offered to decorate our shop. I didn’t want to offend her. Can you imagine what she would’ve designed for us? She had style, but the woman loves lace, ribbons, and buttons. Her dress had a beautiful array of colors, but too many of them.”
Hannah held her empty bread basket. “They were different. Don’t worry about what to say to pushy customers who don’t understand our Amish traditions and lifestyle. You can ask Ellie or me to step in anytime you’re uncomfortable. Working the counter isn’t always easy with such a variety of patrons who kumme into our bakery.”
“I overhear customers talk about current events, gossip, and what’s going on in Charm as I wait on them. I shouldn’t enjoy what I learn, but I do. My two favorites are Dr. Harrison and Sheriff Williams. Those two are a stitch. I have a hard time keeping a straight face when they banter.” Magdelena slapped a hand over her mouth. “The bishop wouldn’t approve of my interest in the outside world’s news. I should keep my mouth shut.”
“Your secret is safe with me. Besides, half the women in our town, including Ellie and me, like to know what’s going on in our community. It’s the gossips who twist the truth and speak negative comments about others that set my teeth on edge.” Hannah shifted the empty basket to her other hip.
Timothy entered the bakery with a pretty, young woman.
Her heart raced. She’d missed him. His red hair was a shade lighter than hers and hung right above his collar under his hat. And those deep green eyes gazing back at her made her giddy. She wanted to stare into them forever. “Timothy, good morning. I’m glad you stopped in.”
“I brought a new friend I’d like you to meet.” Timothy stepped aside and gestured for the slender Amish girl behind him to step closer to the counter. She had beautiful round brown eyes, brown hair wound tight beneath her thin kapp, and high cheekbones. She was petite but seemed smaller next to Timothy’s average height and broad shoulders. She frowned. They made a striking couple. “Magdelena and Hannah, this is Charlene Shetler. She moved in next door to Magdelena’s family. Is Ellie here? I’d like her to meet Charlene.”
Hannah bit her bottom lip. The girl smiled at Timothy. Hannah didn’t like it one bit. She chided herself. It wasn’t the girl’s fault. Charlene didn’t know Hannah cared for Timothy. And for that matter, she hadn’t given Timothy the impression she wanted more than friendship. Her time to tell him might have run out. “Charlene, wilkom to Charm.” She glanced over her shoulder to the open doorway. “Ellie, could you join us for a minute?”
Ellie held a towel and wiped her hands. “Timothy, greetings.”
“I brought Charlene to town to introduce her to all of you and show her around.”
Magdelena passed them each a molasses cookie. “Charlene, your mamm came to our haus, and we were glad to get better acquainted. It’s a pleasure to meet you. Your mamm said your grossmudder is ill. If you need anything, please don’t hesitate to ask.”
“Danki. I appreciate the offer.” Charlene heaved a deep breath and fidgeted with her hands.
Ellie moved next to Hannah. “We have baking socials. Are you interested in being included in the next one we plan?”
Charlene yawned, covered her mouth, and then shrugged. “No. I don’t care to bake. Timothy, dear, we should be going.” She held the cookie. “Danki.” She tugged at his arm.
Timothy tipped his hat. “Hannah, I’ll be at supper Friday evening when you’re over to help Aaron again.”
Her gray mood lifted. Maybe Charlene didn’t have his full attention. He was a gentleman. Maybe she’d asked him to give her a tour of the town. “Good. I’d like to discuss a matter with you after supper.”
He stopped in his tracks. “Charlene, go ahead and mail your letter at the post office. I’ll catch up with you in a minute.” He waited until Charlene left and then swiveled on his heel to Hannah. “You do? Should we speak about it now?”
“No. It can wait.” She smiled wide. “I’ll bring your favorite sugar milk pie.”
He held her gaze for a moment and then left.
Ellie snapped a towel at Hannah. “You and Timothy had a moment. You’ve sent his mind in a spin. You don’t have much time to make your wishes known with Miss Nasty fawning all over him. Timothy’s a fool if he falls for her. She’s rude.”
“She isn’t anything like Mrs. Shetler. The woman was as sweet as apple pie.” Magdelena put a hand to her throat. “Charlene tugging at his arm and not wanting anything to do with us is a clear message she’s marking her territory.” Her worried gaze met Hannah’s. “Did you notice she moved close to him with her arm pressed against his? She’s forward for an Amish girl, and they’ve only been in Charm a couple of weeks.”
“Let’s hope I don’t need to worry about Charlene. Friday night will determine where I stand with Timothy. He showed interest in what I have to say. We’ll soon find out. I’ll let you both know Saturday morning.”
Ellie wrinkled her forehead. “I won’t sleep a wink. I pray your conversation with him is positive.”
Magdelena steepled her fingers under her chin. “Mamm asked me if I would consider an arranged marriage. She said she was curious. I told her no. When I’m ready to consider a man, I want to fall in love. At present, I’m content to remain unwed. I haven’t met a man who interests me.”
Ellie picked lint from her sleeve. “I would’ve never agreed to an arranged marriage. Joel and I enjoyed our courtship and falling in love. I couldn’t wait to commit to him. What if you never fell in love with the man you married for the sake of having a husband? The decision is for a lifetime.”
“I’d rather live out my life as a spinster than wed a man I didn’t love.” Hannah headed for the kitchen. “Ellie, we better bake more desserts. The shelves could use some more goodies, and I need to put my piecrust in the oven.” Her eyes widened. “Ellie, your cookies!”
Ellie chuckled. “I took them out. They’re cooling. Danki for the reminder. I tend to forget.” She went to the kitchen with Hannah. “I can’t help but look at Charlene and wonder if she’s going through something similar to what I experienced. She portrays herself as arrogant and not your typical Amish girl. A little like I was when I arrived in Charm.”
Hannah moved her head side to side. “I didn’t like her flirtatious touch on Timothy’s arm and the way she stood close to him. Her actions made the hairs on my arms prickle.” She cowered. “I need to keep my jealousy in check and wilkom her with open arms like I did you. I shouldn’t make assumptions about her.” Charlene might present more of a challenge if she kept making eyes at Timothy. Ellie had been easy to befriend. Her best friend hadn’t been after a man she had her sights on.
Timothy couldn’t get his mind off Hannah. What would she tell him Friday night? He’d done everything he could to show her he’d changed from an immature boy to a man. He’d been frustrated by her dismissiveness. He hadn’t known what more to do.
He hurried to the post office to meet Charlene and greeted friends along the way. Buggies and wagons were parked in front of shops. Two crank Model T’s, clean as a whistle, shone in the sun outside the bank.
An old gray-haired peddler held up a Mason jar. “Come and get them. You’ll never find them any cheaper! Let’s make a deal!”
He eyed the group of women who left the man with their purchases in hand. He must have a decent price on the jars.
Glancing in the post office window, he found Charlene. She’d given him a warm smile when they first met and told him she hoped he was available. She’d explained she was new in their community. She’d told him she’d like to get better acquainted and hoped he wouldn’t wait too long to visit her. He’d been caught off guard. She fed his ego like no other woman. He wasn’t sure he was ready to consider another woman for anything more than friendship. He wished he garnered this same type of attention from Hannah. “Did you get your mail?”
“Yes. I’m ready to go.” Charlene walked outside with him. She drummed her fingers on his upper arm. “You’re a million miles away. What has you in deep thought?”
Charlene had suggested time alone for serious conversations. She wanted to marry one day and have three kinner. She’d made her intentions toward him clear. It had jarred him to face Hannah with Charlene by his side. Hannah had his full attention until Charlene pursued him. Maybe, in time, he could accept Hannah would never want more than friendship with him and fall in love with this intriguing woman. “I have a lot on my mind.”
“Is it Hannah?”
“Why do you ask?” He didn’t want to discuss Hannah with Charlene.
“She didn’t take her gaze off you the entire time we were in the bakery.”
Hannah still had a grip on his heart, and she was every bit as pretty as Charlene, with her red hair and light green eyes. Hannah had flirted with him, but she wouldn’t discuss a courtship. He wondered why she didn’t reciprocate his love for her. Charlene had found one excuse after another to have him to her haus. Her parents were kind and wilkoming, and he’d found himself wanting to have supper with them and work alongside her daed to help him get settled. “I care for her very much, but she doesn’t like me for more than a friend. My realization of this fact has been recent.” He’d been honest with her. He hoped she’d always be honest with him.
“Hannah’s loss is my gain. Maybe she doesn’t want you, but she doesn’t want me to have you either.” She nudged his arm. “I like you a lot, Timothy Barkman.”
She brushed his arm or squeezed his hand too often. The gestures had made him uncomfortable.
His cheeks warmed. “You speak your mind and aren’t afraid to show affection. Most unusual for an Amish girl.”
“Are you complaining? Why, Timothy, you’re blushing. Your reaction makes you more adorable.” She gave him a confident grin.
“I like you, Charlene. You’re interesting.” He grimaced. “I am uneasy about your touches on my arm and standing too close to me in public, though.” He had to address her boldness. He didn’t want to draw negative attention to them. He took Amish traditions to heart.
Charlene rolled her eyes. “I will not apologize for showing you a little harmless affection. Amish rules shouldn’t be so strict. We are to love each other. Innocent hand-holding and quick kisses should be allowed.”
“We haven’t known each other long. I doubt our families or friends would approve of such gestures.” He didn’t understand why she was dismissive about his request. This wouldn’t be an issue with most Amish women.
“Timothy, please. Let’s not discuss this any further.” She sighed.
He didn’t want to argue. He hoped she’d take into account his concerns. “Let me show you more of the town.” Timothy toured the town with Charlene. Englischers and Amish entered and exited the apothecary, post office, and general store. Two men sat on a bench outside the blacksmith’s shop. “Would you like some homemade ice cream at Maybelle’s Inn?”
“I’m famished. I didn’t have much breakfast this morning. I could use a sandwich.”
“I’ll have one with you.” He escorted her across the busy street and into the Inn and chose a seat in the restaurant section near the window. He lifted the handwritten menus on the table and handed her one.
A middle-aged couple on the other side of the room gave their order to the waitress.
“Their chicken salad is the best.” He glanced out the window.
An Englischer, a good ten years older than them, stared at Charlene, and then hurried out of sight.
Her cheeks pinked, and she looked away. “Englisch men can be so rude.”
Timothy’s shoulders tensed. He wanted to defend her. Amish should avoid confrontation. “Would you like me to have a word with him?”
She gave him an endearing look. “You’re such a gentleman. It’s not necessary. It’s best if we let it go. I shouldn’t have reacted.” She ran her thumb across his hand. “I’ll take your recommendation. Chicken salad sounds good.”
He was relieved. They should ignore the man. Amish were to avoid confrontation, and the man hadn’t spoken to them. She’d overreacted.
The waitress came to their table. “What would you like to . . .
Hannah Lapp unhooked her apron from the wooden peg on the bakery wall, slipped it over her head, and tied it behind her. She poured flour from the sack and filled the near-empty canister on the worktable centered in the room. She nodded to the calendar and gave Ellie an impish grin. “It’s May thirteenth. You’ve been married about three months. Are you used to being Mrs. Joel Wenger?”
“I am, and I love being married. He’s a good partner. Listen, best friend, it’s time for you to put Timothy out of his misery. The man has asked you a number of times to have a serious conversation about a possible future with him. You should tell him how you feel. We should be planning your wedding.”
Hannah grimaced. She’d been cautious about Timothy. She’d considered him immature, fun-loving, and having a not-a-care-in-the-world attitude last year. The past few months he’d surprised her. He’d saved money from doing handyman jobs to build a haus, and he’d prepared land his parents had given him to farm. She’d misjudged him. He had set goals, and he’d achieved them.
“I plan to have the conversation with Timothy about our future the next time we’re together. The conversation you’ve badgered me for weeks to have with him.”
“When?” Ellie measured a cup of flour and dumped it in her bowl.
He’d been absent the last few times she visited his family, and he hadn’t stopped in the bakery the last several weeks. He’d left right after the service before she had a chance to speak to him. They had a service every other Sunday. Would he avoid her at the next service? She sensed something was wrong. Hannah selected her ingredients for a piecrust. “I planned to hint we should take a walk after I helped his little bruder, Aaron, with his schoolwork last night. I stayed for supper, but Timothy never showed. He’s usually always there when I kumme to help Aaron.” Each day she expected him to visit her at the bakery. This was the longest they’d gone without speaking. She’d been nervous about where they stood for the first time.
“Did his mamm say why he wasn’t there?” Ellie added another cup of sugar to the butter cookie dough.
“She said he may have lost track of time working on his haus. The same excuse she’s been giving me. She broke eye contact with me, stared at her meat loaf and potatoes, and spoke one step above a whisper this time. She’s hiding something.” Hannah winced. “I may have worn out Timothy’s patience with me.”
Ellie selected a wooden spoon from the maple utensil holder. “The Barkmans would make such good in-laws, and Aaron loves you like a schweschder.”
“They treat me like family.” Hannah scooped out her dough on the table and patted it into a rough circle. “I’ve kept him at arm’s length for too long. He’s losing interest in me. I can feel it.” She didn’t like change, and she hadn’t been in any hurry to wed. She loved working at the bakery, spending time with her family and friends, and enjoying Timothy’s company at social events. She loved him, but she’d changed the subject and avoided being alone with him to put off any serious conversations about a courtship. Since Ellie had been happily married to Joel, she’d been thinking about what it would be like being wed to Timothy.
“I hope not. I’ll be sad if this doesn’t work out for you.” Ellie stirred her cookie dough.
Hannah reached for the rolling pin. Joel and Timothy had formed a close friendship. She wasn’t sure if Timothy would discuss her with Joel or not. It didn’t hurt to ask. “Has Timothy said anything to Joel about me? If you’d rather not say, I’ll understand. I don’t want you to betray Joel’s confidence.”
Ellie rolled butter cookie dough in balls and set them on a baking tray. She swiped the dough onto her finger and put it in her mouth and winked. “I like the batter as much as the baked cookies.” She poured water from a porcelain pitcher in the sink, washed her hands, and rinsed the bowl. “In the past couple of weeks, Joel hasn’t had a chance to work with Timothy much. We’ve had so much to do at our place.” Ellie’s face clouded, and she stopped talking.
Why had Ellie taken her time to respond? She had something on her mind. “Why are you acting strange? Did Joel say something you’re hesitant to tell me?” Hannah rested her palms on the rolling pin.
“No. I’m sure it’s nothing.” Ellie put her tray of cookies in the oven and glanced at the clock. “Don’t let me forget those cookies. They should be done in about ten minutes.” She grabbed the molasses bottle. “Joel did check on Timothy twice last week, and he wasn’t at his property. Joel found it odd, since he’s been in such a hurry to get it done.”
It was odd. Timothy had worked hard at his place and mentioned he’d missed dinner most of the time to complete a project. She’d felt guilty declining to go on picnics and buggy rides with him since he was willing to spare time for her. The last couple of weeks, he’d stopped asking. Hannah’s throat clenched.
She listened to Ellie talk about Joel making her coffee in the morning and the ice haus he planned to build. Ellie was right. She and Timothy should be having discussions about their expectations for a partner and the number of kinner they each desired. They would be if she hadn’t taken for granted he’d always be there when she was ready to commit.
Hannah turned to Magdelena entering the kitchen. “Magdelena, I should tell you more often how much I appreciate you kumming to work with us right after Liza quit. You’re always on time, and Ellie and I are fortunate to have you here.”
Ellie smiled. “You’ve become a good friend in a short time with your openness and sweet disposition. You fit right in.”
Magdelena blushed. “I love working in the bakery with both of you. Danki.”
“How’s your little schweschder, Charity?” Hannah grinned.
“She’s a handful.” Magdelena rolled her eyes. “She insisted she had to take Peter a sandwich before she’d leave for school. Mamm told her Liza would fix her son a proper dinner. Charity wouldn’t budge until she’d won. Mamm gave in to her so I wouldn’t be late dropping her off and kumming here. My little schweschder is stubborn and spoiled.”
Ellie mixed a batch of molasses cookies ingredients. “My little bruder, Peter, loves Charity. He talks about her a lot.”
Magdelena held a hand to her heart. “Charity adores him.” She leaned against the side of the open doorway. “I’ve been anxious to tell you I met our new neighbor, Loretta Shetler. She brought us a package of sliced sugar-cured ham. Delicious. She and her family moved to Charm from Somerset, Pennsylvania. She’s a kind and gentle soul.”
“How many kinner does she have?” Hannah had passed by the haus weeks ago and noticed cows in the pasture. She hadn’t caught a glimpse of anyone outside. Her mamm had mentioned a family had bought and moved into the place.
“She has one dochder, nineteen. Charlene. I’m glad she’s close to our ages. Maybe we’ll get to know her and she’ll kumme to one of our baking socials.”
Hannah put her piecrust in the pan, trimmed it, and set it aside. She should make a point to wilkom Charlene Shetler to the community. She could introduce her to friends and her family. The adjustment of moving from one familiar location to a strange one could be difficult. “Did her mamm say why Charlene didn’t tag along with her?”
“She stayed home with her grossmudder. They’ve missed Sunday services because the grossmudder has been very ill. Charlene has the responsibility for her care. Loretta said she didn’t feel comfortable leaving the two women alone much since her mudder-in-law has been worse.” Magdelena grabbed the tray of blueberry tarts on the counter. “Hannah, Loretta mentioned they’d met Timothy. She said he’d passed their haus and noticed their horse escaping the corral. He returned the horse to them and fixed the gate. He’s been over to help them several times.”
Ellie spooned her sticky molasses dough onto a clean tray. “They’ll learn Timothy will put others’ needs before his own. He’s a talented handyman. Give him a difficult repair problem, and he’ll find the best way to fix it.”
Hannah removed yesterday’s bread from a top cabinet, arranged it in a basket, and balanced it on her hip. “He’s outgoing, and it’s no surprise he’d meet new neighbors before everyone else. He’s also nosey.” She chuckled.
Magdelena stood in the kitchen and narrowed her eyes. “You will lose a good man if you don’t listen to Ellie and me and tell him soon you are in love with him.”
“I plan to.” She had loyal and loving friends who cared about her, and they had her best interests at heart. Ellie and Magdelena insisted she had too much love to give. She was ready to find out.
“Don’t assume anything. Communication is important. You haven’t given him much hope you want more than friendship. You should be clear about why you are ready now to build a future with him,” Magdelena said.
Hannah nodded.
Magdelena headed for the front. “I should return to the counter. More customers have arrived.” She turned to greet the patrons. “Ladies, what can I offer you this morning?”
Hannah followed Magdelena and smiled at the Englischers. “Thank you for kumming in.”
Two thin and tall Englischers scanned the shop. They had their curls pinned in an elegant style and wore pretty, ankle-length dresses, showing a little too much chest. “Liza’s Amish Charm Bakery is a clever name for your business. Are you Liza?”
Hannah balanced her basket of bread on her hip. “She’s my aunt, and she quit to care for her boppli. She’s left us in charge of the shop. Her recipes are why our goodies are popular.”
“Stella, they have cinnamon loaves. You love to warm cinnamon bread in the morning to have with coffee.”
“Judith, what a splendid idea.” She pointed to the bread. “I must have a loaf.” Stella swiveled and looked around the bakery. “I like your white tables and spindle chairs. The shelves filled with jams and fruit complements your bread assortment and adds color. Simple and plain but perfect. I would imagine the men and children like to sit at your side counter.”
Magdelena took the soft and cinnamon-scented loaf from Hannah’s basket. “We have regular patrons who claim their stools or chairs each morning, like the sheriff and Dr. Harrison. Kinner like to sit there, too.”
“I could help you add more charm to this bakery, if you let me.” Stella tapped a finger on her chin and scanned the room again.
Judith rolled her eyes. “There she goes again. I apologize, girls. My sister can’t walk in a room without going over every detail.”
Magdelena blushed and looked at Hannah.
Hannah stepped to the ladies. Shy Magdelena Beachy hadn’t mastered the art of politely rejecting Englischers’ offers to do nonacceptable things for the Amish. Hannah didn’t mind. Magdelena worked hard at the bakery and charmed most of the customers. She was glad Liza had hired her. They’d become close friends. “Danki for your generous offer. Our Amish tradition and lifestyle is to keep things in our homes and stores plain. And it gives us more room for desserts to offer to our customers. As our gift, please accept some sugar cookies for your first-time patronage.”
Magdelena lifted the glass dome on the counter, removed two cookies, and handed each lady one.
Stella accepted her cookie. “Thank you. I do tend to get carried away. I hope I haven’t offended you.”
“No. We’re pleased you stopped in.” Hannah waved a dismissive hand.
Judith pointed to the shelf. “I’ll take a custard pie and a cinnamon roll.” Judith heaved a big sigh. “Stella loves to create outrageous pillows with ribbon, lace, and bows. She doesn’t have room for them, and no one wants to buy them. She needs a new hobby.” She shrugged. “Stella, you should bake.”
“I have friends who love my pillows. I like giving them as gifts. You don’t have to like them. I’m not interested in baking. I’d rather buy desserts.” Stella glowered at Judith.
“Sounds like you’re talented.” Hannah stooped and filled the shelf with her breads.
“Thank you, dear. I’m glad someone appreciates my creativity.” Stella smirked at Judith.
Magdelena wrapped their purchases and accepted payment. “Kumme back and visit us.”
“We will.” The ladies thanked them and fussed about where to go next as they left.
“I had no idea how to respond to the Englischer when she offered to decorate our shop. I didn’t want to offend her. Can you imagine what she would’ve designed for us? She had style, but the woman loves lace, ribbons, and buttons. Her dress had a beautiful array of colors, but too many of them.”
Hannah held her empty bread basket. “They were different. Don’t worry about what to say to pushy customers who don’t understand our Amish traditions and lifestyle. You can ask Ellie or me to step in anytime you’re uncomfortable. Working the counter isn’t always easy with such a variety of patrons who kumme into our bakery.”
“I overhear customers talk about current events, gossip, and what’s going on in Charm as I wait on them. I shouldn’t enjoy what I learn, but I do. My two favorites are Dr. Harrison and Sheriff Williams. Those two are a stitch. I have a hard time keeping a straight face when they banter.” Magdelena slapped a hand over her mouth. “The bishop wouldn’t approve of my interest in the outside world’s news. I should keep my mouth shut.”
“Your secret is safe with me. Besides, half the women in our town, including Ellie and me, like to know what’s going on in our community. It’s the gossips who twist the truth and speak negative comments about others that set my teeth on edge.” Hannah shifted the empty basket to her other hip.
Timothy entered the bakery with a pretty, young woman.
Her heart raced. She’d missed him. His red hair was a shade lighter than hers and hung right above his collar under his hat. And those deep green eyes gazing back at her made her giddy. She wanted to stare into them forever. “Timothy, good morning. I’m glad you stopped in.”
“I brought a new friend I’d like you to meet.” Timothy stepped aside and gestured for the slender Amish girl behind him to step closer to the counter. She had beautiful round brown eyes, brown hair wound tight beneath her thin kapp, and high cheekbones. She was petite but seemed smaller next to Timothy’s average height and broad shoulders. She frowned. They made a striking couple. “Magdelena and Hannah, this is Charlene Shetler. She moved in next door to Magdelena’s family. Is Ellie here? I’d like her to meet Charlene.”
Hannah bit her bottom lip. The girl smiled at Timothy. Hannah didn’t like it one bit. She chided herself. It wasn’t the girl’s fault. Charlene didn’t know Hannah cared for Timothy. And for that matter, she hadn’t given Timothy the impression she wanted more than friendship. Her time to tell him might have run out. “Charlene, wilkom to Charm.” She glanced over her shoulder to the open doorway. “Ellie, could you join us for a minute?”
Ellie held a towel and wiped her hands. “Timothy, greetings.”
“I brought Charlene to town to introduce her to all of you and show her around.”
Magdelena passed them each a molasses cookie. “Charlene, your mamm came to our haus, and we were glad to get better acquainted. It’s a pleasure to meet you. Your mamm said your grossmudder is ill. If you need anything, please don’t hesitate to ask.”
“Danki. I appreciate the offer.” Charlene heaved a deep breath and fidgeted with her hands.
Ellie moved next to Hannah. “We have baking socials. Are you interested in being included in the next one we plan?”
Charlene yawned, covered her mouth, and then shrugged. “No. I don’t care to bake. Timothy, dear, we should be going.” She held the cookie. “Danki.” She tugged at his arm.
Timothy tipped his hat. “Hannah, I’ll be at supper Friday evening when you’re over to help Aaron again.”
Her gray mood lifted. Maybe Charlene didn’t have his full attention. He was a gentleman. Maybe she’d asked him to give her a tour of the town. “Good. I’d like to discuss a matter with you after supper.”
He stopped in his tracks. “Charlene, go ahead and mail your letter at the post office. I’ll catch up with you in a minute.” He waited until Charlene left and then swiveled on his heel to Hannah. “You do? Should we speak about it now?”
“No. It can wait.” She smiled wide. “I’ll bring your favorite sugar milk pie.”
He held her gaze for a moment and then left.
Ellie snapped a towel at Hannah. “You and Timothy had a moment. You’ve sent his mind in a spin. You don’t have much time to make your wishes known with Miss Nasty fawning all over him. Timothy’s a fool if he falls for her. She’s rude.”
“She isn’t anything like Mrs. Shetler. The woman was as sweet as apple pie.” Magdelena put a hand to her throat. “Charlene tugging at his arm and not wanting anything to do with us is a clear message she’s marking her territory.” Her worried gaze met Hannah’s. “Did you notice she moved close to him with her arm pressed against his? She’s forward for an Amish girl, and they’ve only been in Charm a couple of weeks.”
“Let’s hope I don’t need to worry about Charlene. Friday night will determine where I stand with Timothy. He showed interest in what I have to say. We’ll soon find out. I’ll let you both know Saturday morning.”
Ellie wrinkled her forehead. “I won’t sleep a wink. I pray your conversation with him is positive.”
Magdelena steepled her fingers under her chin. “Mamm asked me if I would consider an arranged marriage. She said she was curious. I told her no. When I’m ready to consider a man, I want to fall in love. At present, I’m content to remain unwed. I haven’t met a man who interests me.”
Ellie picked lint from her sleeve. “I would’ve never agreed to an arranged marriage. Joel and I enjoyed our courtship and falling in love. I couldn’t wait to commit to him. What if you never fell in love with the man you married for the sake of having a husband? The decision is for a lifetime.”
“I’d rather live out my life as a spinster than wed a man I didn’t love.” Hannah headed for the kitchen. “Ellie, we better bake more desserts. The shelves could use some more goodies, and I need to put my piecrust in the oven.” Her eyes widened. “Ellie, your cookies!”
Ellie chuckled. “I took them out. They’re cooling. Danki for the reminder. I tend to forget.” She went to the kitchen with Hannah. “I can’t help but look at Charlene and wonder if she’s going through something similar to what I experienced. She portrays herself as arrogant and not your typical Amish girl. A little like I was when I arrived in Charm.”
Hannah moved her head side to side. “I didn’t like her flirtatious touch on Timothy’s arm and the way she stood close to him. Her actions made the hairs on my arms prickle.” She cowered. “I need to keep my jealousy in check and wilkom her with open arms like I did you. I shouldn’t make assumptions about her.” Charlene might present more of a challenge if she kept making eyes at Timothy. Ellie had been easy to befriend. Her best friend hadn’t been after a man she had her sights on.
Timothy couldn’t get his mind off Hannah. What would she tell him Friday night? He’d done everything he could to show her he’d changed from an immature boy to a man. He’d been frustrated by her dismissiveness. He hadn’t known what more to do.
He hurried to the post office to meet Charlene and greeted friends along the way. Buggies and wagons were parked in front of shops. Two crank Model T’s, clean as a whistle, shone in the sun outside the bank.
An old gray-haired peddler held up a Mason jar. “Come and get them. You’ll never find them any cheaper! Let’s make a deal!”
He eyed the group of women who left the man with their purchases in hand. He must have a decent price on the jars.
Glancing in the post office window, he found Charlene. She’d given him a warm smile when they first met and told him she hoped he was available. She’d explained she was new in their community. She’d told him she’d like to get better acquainted and hoped he wouldn’t wait too long to visit her. He’d been caught off guard. She fed his ego like no other woman. He wasn’t sure he was ready to consider another woman for anything more than friendship. He wished he garnered this same type of attention from Hannah. “Did you get your mail?”
“Yes. I’m ready to go.” Charlene walked outside with him. She drummed her fingers on his upper arm. “You’re a million miles away. What has you in deep thought?”
Charlene had suggested time alone for serious conversations. She wanted to marry one day and have three kinner. She’d made her intentions toward him clear. It had jarred him to face Hannah with Charlene by his side. Hannah had his full attention until Charlene pursued him. Maybe, in time, he could accept Hannah would never want more than friendship with him and fall in love with this intriguing woman. “I have a lot on my mind.”
“Is it Hannah?”
“Why do you ask?” He didn’t want to discuss Hannah with Charlene.
“She didn’t take her gaze off you the entire time we were in the bakery.”
Hannah still had a grip on his heart, and she was every bit as pretty as Charlene, with her red hair and light green eyes. Hannah had flirted with him, but she wouldn’t discuss a courtship. He wondered why she didn’t reciprocate his love for her. Charlene had found one excuse after another to have him to her haus. Her parents were kind and wilkoming, and he’d found himself wanting to have supper with them and work alongside her daed to help him get settled. “I care for her very much, but she doesn’t like me for more than a friend. My realization of this fact has been recent.” He’d been honest with her. He hoped she’d always be honest with him.
“Hannah’s loss is my gain. Maybe she doesn’t want you, but she doesn’t want me to have you either.” She nudged his arm. “I like you a lot, Timothy Barkman.”
She brushed his arm or squeezed his hand too often. The gestures had made him uncomfortable.
His cheeks warmed. “You speak your mind and aren’t afraid to show affection. Most unusual for an Amish girl.”
“Are you complaining? Why, Timothy, you’re blushing. Your reaction makes you more adorable.” She gave him a confident grin.
“I like you, Charlene. You’re interesting.” He grimaced. “I am uneasy about your touches on my arm and standing too close to me in public, though.” He had to address her boldness. He didn’t want to draw negative attention to them. He took Amish traditions to heart.
Charlene rolled her eyes. “I will not apologize for showing you a little harmless affection. Amish rules shouldn’t be so strict. We are to love each other. Innocent hand-holding and quick kisses should be allowed.”
“We haven’t known each other long. I doubt our families or friends would approve of such gestures.” He didn’t understand why she was dismissive about his request. This wouldn’t be an issue with most Amish women.
“Timothy, please. Let’s not discuss this any further.” She sighed.
He didn’t want to argue. He hoped she’d take into account his concerns. “Let me show you more of the town.” Timothy toured the town with Charlene. Englischers and Amish entered and exited the apothecary, post office, and general store. Two men sat on a bench outside the blacksmith’s shop. “Would you like some homemade ice cream at Maybelle’s Inn?”
“I’m famished. I didn’t have much breakfast this morning. I could use a sandwich.”
“I’ll have one with you.” He escorted her across the busy street and into the Inn and chose a seat in the restaurant section near the window. He lifted the handwritten menus on the table and handed her one.
A middle-aged couple on the other side of the room gave their order to the waitress.
“Their chicken salad is the best.” He glanced out the window.
An Englischer, a good ten years older than them, stared at Charlene, and then hurried out of sight.
Her cheeks pinked, and she looked away. “Englisch men can be so rude.”
Timothy’s shoulders tensed. He wanted to defend her. Amish should avoid confrontation. “Would you like me to have a word with him?”
She gave him an endearing look. “You’re such a gentleman. It’s not necessary. It’s best if we let it go. I shouldn’t have reacted.” She ran her thumb across his hand. “I’ll take your recommendation. Chicken salad sounds good.”
He was relieved. They should ignore the man. Amish were to avoid confrontation, and the man hadn’t spoken to them. She’d overreacted.
The waitress came to their table. “What would you like to . . .
We hope you are enjoying the book so far. To continue reading...
Copyright © 2024 All Rights Reserved
