Amish Romance: Naomi's Story: THREE Story BOXED SET: Clean & Wholesome Amish Book Bundle Read online

  “Does your husband know you take in guests?” he asked, and she saw immediately that he knew she’d never in her life taken in paying guests.

  “My husband … my husband has passed.” She swallowed again, feeling the familiar lump grow in her throat. She coughed, annoyed with herself. She didn’t have time to wallow in her grief now. “You’ll be getting a true Amish experience,” she went on. “We have no electricity.”

  “I’m sorry about your husband.” He was quiet for a moment. Then he continued, “How about hot water?”

  “Oh yes. We have a hot water heater using propane gas.”

  He was grinning now, a wide smile that covered his face. “Why, that sounds perfect.” He gave a quick glance at his car. “My computer’s battery gives me about four hours. Is there a place with electricity close by?”

  She tilted her head, indicating down the road. “In town, of course.”

  “I’ll be staying five nights,” he said. “Assuming you’ll have me for that long.”

  Naomi clasped her hands to her chest and worked to keep her excitement at bay. Five hundred dollars. She gave him a solemn look. “That should be fine.”

  “My name is Justin Moore.” He extended his hand. “Nice to meet you.”

  She stared at his outstretched hand. Was she to touch this stranger now? This male stranger? Well, that’s what she’d just signed up for with her impulsive decision. She reached out and shook his hand, stunned at the last five minutes of her life. “My name is Naomi Byler. My farm is just down the road. I can’t leave right now as I’m watching the stand for my friend Mary.”

  “No problem, Ms. Byler,” he said, his voice rolling over her name like a song. “If you’ll give me the address, I’ll head into town for a few supplies and then arrive in an hour or so. Will that do?”

  She nodded. “Jah, that will be fine.”

  He glanced over the baked goods on the table next to her. “I’ll take that apple pie,” he said, pointing to the very pie that Katy had topped off with marmalade. He reached for his wallet in his back pocket. “How much?”

  “Fifteen dollars,” Naomi said, picking it up and handing it to him.

  He gave her a twenty dollar bill. “Keep the change. And maybe you could serve it for dinner tonight?” he suggested. “Plus, I’ll pay extra for the meals if needed.”

  She shook her head. “Nee. There’s no extra charge for that.” She smiled, thinking how surprised Ben would be to get a piece of apple pie for dinner after all.

  After putting her address in his phone, Justin tipped his head in farewell, got into his car, and drove off. Naomi stood there unmoving, watching him drive away. What had she just done? Invited a stranger to spend the night at her house? She should be completely alarmed at her own nerve, but all she felt was grateful. God had given her another way to support themselves.

  Her sisters and brothers back in Pennsylvania had been haranguing her for months to return home. They simply couldn’t understand her reluctance to leave Hollybrook. After all, there was nothing there for her anymore. But they were wrong. Her dat’s and her husband’s dream was there. They had worked for years to make it happen. To find just the right land at just the right price. And they’d finally found it in Hollybrook, Indiana.

  She refused to leave. Truth be told, in the beginning, she had considered selling, but when she’d investigated the possibility, she’d found that the economy had changed since their purchase. In that little bit of time, the price she could ask for the land wouldn’t even cover the debt she owed.

  And she wasn’t about to leave Hollybrook with debt hanging over her head. It would be wrong and disrespectful of her father and her husband.

  No. She was going to stay, and she was going to make it work. Besides, forcing yet another change on her children wouldn’t be wise. She gazed up at the fluttering leaves of the oak tree above her head. Truth was, she couldn’t bear to leave her husband there. Alone.

  Tears burned her eyes as she thought of his body, lying deep in the warm earth. Without her.

  “What would I do without you?” Isaac used to ask, tweaking her long hair over her shoulders as they sat up in bed together. “You’re my life. My everything.”

  When he had said such things to her, a fleeting fear would pass through her, and she would shudder. Somehow, his devotion, his love, had seemed too strong, too encompassing, as if they were too much for this world. She couldn’t explain it. Indeed, she hardly understood the feeling herself, but it was there. And now, seeing how it had turned out, how their love was killed in its prime, she wondered whether what she had felt was some kind of premonition. Some foretelling of the tragedy that was to come.

  She moved to the side table and fussed with the embroidered tea towels, rearranging them to better effect. It did no good to ruminate on the past. It was the future that required all her energy and wisdom. It was the future that needed her planning and her courage.

  “Mamm!” called Ben, running to the stand. “It’s true! There’s a big bumpy toad in Liz’s tree. It’s got warts all over it. It’s soooo gross!”

  His brown eyes sparkled with delight. Naomi laughed and ran her hand through his sweaty bangs. “Is that so?”

  “Can I get a toad?”

  “I don’t think it works that way, Ben. Toads come and go as they please.”

  He clasped his hands together. “I hope one comes our way. I’m gonna name it Warty.”

  “Sounds like a right fine name.” Naomi peered out from the stand, glancing down the road. “Where’s your sister?”

  “She’s coming. She said it wasn’t dark yet, and we didn’t have to go, but I’m hungry.”

  “Mary should be back in a minute. So as soon as Katy shows up, we’ll head for home.”

  No sooner had the words gone from her mouth than Mary arrived, huffing and stewing. “You were right, Naomi. I needed to check on things. Betty, bless her heart, was in the middle of burning a batch of biscuits. So, I guess we’re eating burnt offerings tonight.” She threw back her head and laughed. “That child! What am I to do? She’ll never be able to keep a house.”

  Naomi chuckled along with her, but she was distracted. Should she tell Mary what she was about to do? Would Mary approve?

  She decided against it. When the Englisch man’s stay was successful, she would broach the subject. But should it not work out, she wouldn’t have to say a thing. Only later would she realize the foolishness of such reasoning. She should have shared her plans with Mary then and there.

  Katy skipped into the stand. “I’m hungry, Mamm.”

  “Jah, you’re not the only one,” Naomi said, nodding at Katy’s brother. “Let’s get in the cart and go on home.” She turned to Mary. “Unless you still need my help.”

  Mary waved her hand in dismissal. “Nee. You all go on now. I’ll bring you your money tomorrow evening some time.”

  “I sold one of the pies. Do I give you a portion of the price?”

  Mary guffawed. “You’re the one who helped me out today. Now, if it was a regular arrangement, I probably would take a portion at that. But not for a one-time event. Enjoy the profits.”

  “Thank you, Mary,” Naomi said. Her eyes misted over, and she looked away in embarrassment. “I’ll see you later then.”

  The children had already climbed into the cart, and Katy handed Naomi the reins when she got in. Naomi slapped them gently on Molly’s back, and the mare started down the road. When they were out of earshot of Mary, Naomi turned to her children.

  “We’re having a guest for the next five nights. I’m counting on your help now.”

  “Who is it?” asked Ben.

  “Jah, who’s coming?” Katy chimed in.

  “A gentleman named Justin Moore. He’s—”

  Katy interrupted her. “Is he Englisch?”

  Naomi saw the look of alarm on her daughter’s face. “Jah, but he’s a nice man, Katy.”

  “Why’s he staying with us?” Katy’s voice had gone defensive. �
��Dat told us we shouldn’t get friendly with the Englisch.”

  Naomi looked at her, trying to gauge the level of her upset. “Your dat only meant we should be cautious about becoming close friends with the Englisch, not that we shouldn’t express kindness and courtesy. Anyway, this is a business arrangement. We could use the money.”

  “He’s paying us?” Ben asked.

  “We’re opening a Bed and Breakfast.” As the words passed her lips, Naomi realized her own conviction at the words. A feeling of peace settled over her, and she knew it was decided.

  “A what?” Katy asked.

  “A type of hotel. Where people pay you to spend the night, and you also feed them breakfast and perhaps some other meals.”

  “Where’s he going to sleep? Is he going to sleep in Dat’s place?” Katy’s voice had risen to a high pitch.

  Naomi yanked up on the reins, and the three of them nearly toppled off the bench seat as Molly came to an abrupt halt.

  “What?” Naomi wheezed out in utter shock. “Whatever gave you that idea?”

  Katy folded her arms in front of her chest and pressed her lips together.

  “Katy Byler! What the world are you thinking? Of course, he’s not. He’ll be staying in the daadi haus.”

  Katy kept her eyes forward as if she hadn’t heard a word Naomi had said.

  “Katy,” Naomi said, putting her hand on Katy’s shoulder. “Look at me.”

  Slowly, Katy’s gaze turned to her mother. Her look reminded Naomi of a hurt puppy, crouching in the corner.

  “Katy,” Naomi repeated her name, but much gentler this time. “We need to make money to take care of ourselves. You know that. This is a way for us to make money.”

  “What about the money that Zachariah gives you? He pays you every month! What about that?” Katy’s voice was filled with tears, but her eyes remained wide and dry.

  “Jah. And that’s very helpful. But it’s not enough.”

  “It should be! You just don’t know how to manage money!” Katy accused, her voice sharp.

  Naomi flinched. She would never have expected such a reaction from her daughter. She paused, debating how to respond, but no words came. In her heart of hearts, she wondered whether Katy was right. She feared Katy was right.

  She swallowed hard and then slapped the reins again. Molly gave a lurch, and the pony cart rolled toward home. An awkward silence fell over the three of them, interrupted only with an occasional soft gasping breath from Katy. Naomi’s mind reeled. Such disrespect in a child was not acceptable, but something within Naomi warned her to tread lightly. Katy was still not herself. She was still fragile.

  When they pulled up to the barn, Ben jumped out. Katy followed, landing on the ground with a soft thud.

  “You two take care of the cart and Molly. I need to go through the daadi haus to ensure all is ready. Then I’m going to need help with dinner.”

  Naomi climbed out of the cart and headed toward the daadi haus. Katy ran to catch up with her, pulling on her arm. Naomi stopped and looked at her daughter.

  “I’m sorry, Mama.” She looked at her feet. “I’ll help you.”

  Naomi’s heart went out to her. She touched her forearm gently. “I know you’re sorry, Katy. And I’m counting on your help.”

  Katy glanced up then, her eyes welling with tears. “You’re not mad?”

  Naomi shook her head. “Let’s forget it happened, shall we?”

  Katy grabbed Naomi in a quick, fervent hug. Just as quickly, she released her and ran back to the pony cart to help Ben with Molly. Naomi fought her own tears. She pressed her hand to her chest and turned away to hurry to the daadi haus. She opened the door and immediately went to open each window, letting the late breeze waft through the small house. She glanced around, grateful that she’d left it so tidy when they’d moved their things to the big house. She entered the main bedroom. The double bed was neatly made up with clean sheets and one of her mother’s favorite quilts. She stopped short, unable to move further into the room.

  A wave of grief took hold of her, and she shook with the jolt of it. She grabbed the edge of the dresser and hung on, waiting for it to pass. The pain stormed through her chest and into her stomach, swirling there, before moving to her heart. She nearly buckled with it, squeezing her eyes shut and forcing herself to breathe.

  This room. This was the place she and Isaac had dreamed and loved and shared everything. This room was Isaac. She backed up until she was pressed against the wall. What was she thinking to allow a stranger to sleep there?

  Breathe, she told herself. Breathe, Naomi. Slow and easy. You can do this.

  A crow’s caw raked through the air outside, and she opened her eyes. She inched away from the wall until she was standing again on her own. She faltered, but stiffened herself to maintain her posture. No. She would not succumb again. It was only a room. Only a bed. It wasn’t Isaac at all. She lurched across the floor to smooth the quilt, although it didn’t need it. She glanced at the lantern on the bedside table and saw that matches were in reach.

  Then with determined steps, she went to the bathroom and made sure fresh towels were in place. Everything was in order. There was no food in the kitchen, but Mr. Moore would join them for meals. Gulping back the dull pain in her throat, she left the daadi haus and moved somewhat mechanically to the big house. She entered through the side door and saw Katy already in the kitchen.

  “I thought we could warm the stew,” she said. “And there’s enough bread to serve company I think.”

  Naomi went to her daughter and drew her close for a long hug. She felt Katy shudder in her arms, but only for a brief moment. She let her go and together, they bustled about the kitchen getting supper ready.

  “Ben, set the plates, would you?”

  Ben came in from the washroom, his hands still dripping. “Where should I put the Englischer’s plate?”

  Katy eyed Naomi. Naomi took a deep breath. “Put it next to your spot, Ben.” She knew Katy was worried that the stranger would sit in her dat’s or grandparents’ spots. But no, Naomi wouldn’t allow that, either.

  A knock was heard on the front door. Naomi’s brows rose. She hadn’t heard a car drive in. She wiped her hands down her apron and rushed to the door. Opening it, she was startled to see Zachariah.

  “Oh, Zachariah,” she said, taking a quick breath. “I didn’t know it was you.”

  He studied her for a moment. “Are you expecting company?”

  “Well, jah. I mean, nee. Well, not company exactly.”

  Ben rushed up behind Naomi. “Hey, Mr. Zach! Guess what? We got an Englischer coming!”

  Zach’s gaze jerked to Naomi. He tilted his head, looking at her uncertainly. “What’s this?”

  Naomi squirmed under his gaze, which annoyed her. Why should she feel like she had to explain herself to him? He only leased her land. They had no relationship beyond that. Did they?

  “I-I’m taking in boarders,” she stammered. “This gentleman is here to write about the county fair.”

  The line of Zach’s mouth tightened a fraction, and although he said nothing, she knew he was displeased. She saw the agitation in his eyes. He turned away from the door and then paused, looking back. He stepped close, his eyes on hers.

  “Did you need something?” Naomi asked, her hand on the screen.

  “I wanted to know if you needed anything,” he said. His voice was low and thick and melodious. “But I see you’re busy.”

  She prickled at his words, unsure as to why she was suddenly annoyed. “Jah. Everything’s fine,” she answered, mildly surprised at her own curt tone.

  He raised his hand and for a fleeting second, she thought he was going to touch her hand. Her eyes widened, and he froze. He cleared his throat and the look he gave her was full of feeling. She blinked, trying to read him.

  But he had moved away again, going down the steps. He raised his hand in farewell.

  “Bye, Mr. Zach!” Ben called. “See you tomorrow, okay?”
/>   “Jah, Ben. See you tomorrow.” But he didn’t look back.

  Ben scampered into the house, but Naomi hesitated a moment, watching Zach’s wide-shouldered, rangy body disappear down the drive. She frowned, and a tremor touched her soft smooth lips. What had just happened?

  Four

  Naomi shook herself and forced herself to look away. She hadn’t time to ponder the mysterious ways of Zachariah King. Justin Moore would be there any minute. And sure enough, as if her thoughts had conjured him up, he drove in at that precise moment. He must have passed Zachariah coming in. Justin parked his white sedan under the large poplar at the side of the house. She watched him unfold himself out of the car and reach into the backseat for his two bags. He grinned widely at her as he approached the porch.

  “Howdy again, ma’am.” He set his bags at her feet at the top of the porch. “Give me a minute.”

  He returned to his car and this time, he retrieved Naomi’s apple pie from the passenger side of the car. “Can’t forget about the pie now, can we? My mouth’s been waterin’ since I put it next to me on the seat. Fact is, I nearly ate it with my bare hands, it smelled so good.”

  Naomi laughed and set the pie on the small porch table. “I do have forks, Mr. Moore. Don’t you worry.”

  He stood before her. “I’m not worried,” he said, his voice soft. “I’m not worried about a single thing.”

  She took a step back, startled at his familiar tone.

  Ben burst through the screen door. When he saw Justin, he stopped short, suddenly turning shy. Naomi reached out and took Ben’s shoulder. “This is my son, Benjamin,” she said.

  “Howdy, Benjamin,” Justin said. He grinned. “You look like a strapping farmer to me.”

  Ben looked up at their tall visitor, a proud glow coming to his cheeks. “I help a lot around here,” he said.

  “I imagine you do. It’s mighty fine for a mother to have such a son.”

  Naomi fidgeted a bit with the seam of Ben’s shirt, feeling uncomfortable with how forward this Englischer seemed. But upon looking into Justin’s gleaming eyes, she decided that there was only friendliness there. She’d heard of the outspoken ways of the Englischers.