Tag: Amish of Appalachia

Free Sample of Her Simple Amish Wish

NicoleLeave a comment

Hello friends, and welcome!

I hope you have an AMAZING day ahead of you! Today is very special to me because it’s my husband and I’s 21st wedding anniversary. It’s been a wonderful two decades!

Today I thought I’d share the first chapter of my newest Amish Romance with you. It’s called Her Simple Amish Wish, and is now available on Amazon. It’s the eighth book in my Amish of Appalachia Series.

About the novel:

Jane Lantz’s biggest wish is to find purpose in the Amish community of Clear Creek after losing job after job, and making a fool of herself more times than she can count as a stubborn teenager. Now in her early twenties, Jane is hoping to find her way without the help of her two overbearing older sisters.

Ryan Potter made a big mistake by spreading a rumor about Jane’s sister last year, and he doesn’t think he’ll ever be able to live it down. But once Jane begins to work at the plant nursery next door, he’ll do just about anything to make things right. That is, if Jane can win the approval of his grandfather.

Will Jane’s wish come true, and will she and Ryan find love in the process?

Chapter One

An island breeze drifted through the open window as Jane Lantz held her sister Josie’s cell phone to her ear. A flock of seagulls called in the distance, and the murmur of ocean waves could be heard crashing along the seashore. Jane grimaced. She should feel happy…excited, even. Ja, taking a little vacation to Josie’s beach bungalow had been gut for her. That is, until Elsie gave her a call.

“Jane, you really need to nail down a job. Lately, you’ve been moving from one thing to the next so fast that my head’s begun to spin. Why do you think that is?” Elsie’s voice sounded worried as her concerns tumbled out of her mouth.

“Um, I don’t know.” Jane’s tone was flat as she shrugged her shoulders as if her sister could see. Couldn’t Elsie understand that Jane had tried just about every odd job in Clear Creek, and nothing seemed to suit her? It was just as well though, since she was learning that neither her sisters nor parents expected much out of her.

Vell, maybe that wasn’t completely true. Elsie had taken the time to make a phone call while visiting the Yoder General Store to spend time with her sister-in-law, after all. She was probably a little concerned about Jane’s well being.

Or was Elsie just trying to boss Jane around?

Her two older sisters had always told her what to do, which had caused Jane to toughen up and speak her mind through her childhood and beyond. Her back bristled. Jane had never intended to grow loud and annoying, but she’d become just that as the youngest child in the Lantz household. And now in her early twenties, Jane was trying to both right her wrongs, and find out who she was by stepping out from underneath her sisters’ shadows. 

“You don’t know? Do you really mean that?”

“Ja, I do. I don’t know why I can’t seem to find my place in our community. That’s why I’m visiting Josie this month. I’ve told you that already, sister. I needed a place to clear my mind. Tybee Island is the perfect location for that.”

Jane and Elsie’s sister Josie had jumped the fence, leaving their Amish community of Clear Creek in the southern Appalachian mountains once discovering that she was expecting a bobbeli out of wedlock several years ago. Their Aenti Meredith lived on Tybee Island, and had welcomed Josie with open arms. While there, Josie had decided to find her place amongst the Englisch. Thankfully, with time the Lantz family’s relationship had been fully restored.

And Josie had found peace, too. She fell in love with an islander named Hudson Reed, and he became the perfect daed to her little daughter, Cora. Jane still wished she hadn’t made such a fool of herself when she’d first met him, though. Her cheeks pinked at the thought. How was she to know that Hudson was already in love with Josie when she’d nearly thrown herself at him? Jane had been a foolish and loud teenager, for certain sure.

“There’s a place for you here, Jane. I just know there is.” Elsie’s voice sounded strained. “I think you should kumm back home to find out what that is. You’ve been at Josie’s long enough, don’t you think?” 

Jane looked down at her light pink flip flops that matched her cape dress perfectly. She could get used to island life very quickly, but she knew Elsie had a point. She couldn’t run from her life forever. But she wasn’t perfectly content sitting at home with her mamm, and her job options in their cozy mountain town were looking pretty slim. With all of her heart, Jane wished she could find her place. She felt like a square peg trying to fit into a round hole.

To her community, she’d always been loud and bubbly Jane, who was known to put her foot in her mouth. And who couldn’t hold down a job, nor find a gut man to court her.

This was another problem entirely. Jane had always envisioned herself married by the time she’d reached her twenties, but that certainly hadn’t happened. Most Amish men passed her by, since she wasn’t as self-controlled as most of her friends. With age, Jane had begun to learn how to subdue her spark, but she still hadn’t found the one for her.

Perhaps she never would.

“Is there such a thing as spending too much time on Tybee Island, Elsie? I mean, really.”

Elsie’s laugh bubbled through the phone line. “You’ve got me, there. I love to visit the island just as much as you do. But we’re all worried about you. Mamm, Daed, Gabe, and even Jeff and Andy miss you. We’d like to see you again soon.”

Jane heaved out a sigh. She missed all of them, too. In the fall, Elsie had married a widower named Gabe Yoder, and had become an instant mamm to his nine-year-old twin boys named Jeff and Andy. Jane missed many people in the community if she was honest with herself, but her lack of steady employment still stung.

Jane still couldn’t believe she’d been fired from the pet store in town, though Elias Potter was gut friends with the owner of Pet Emporium. She just knew that she’d left a bad taste in Elias’s mouth after she stopped working at his farm co-op to take a job at the Miller’s apple orchard a little over a year ago. Why else would Jared have let her go from her job at the pet store after being late only one measly little time? She knew Elias must’ve put him up to it. And she’d had a gut excuse, to boot. Her mamm was feeling under the weather, and Jane wanted to make sure she was going to be okay before leaving for the day.

After she was fired from her latest job, it just felt like too much. Her whole world was crumbling around her, so when Josie said that she was welkom to have a little reprieve from the late winter at her haus, Jane jumped at the opportunity. But now spring had arrived, and she probably should begin making her way back to Clear Creek. 

Though what was left for her there?

“Jane, I’m serious. I’ve even caught wind of a new job for you to try. Molly let me know that she’s looking for someone to help her out at the plant nursery. Do you think that would interest you at all?” Elsie’s voice was strained as it raised an octave.

Jane’s brow wrinkled as she tucked a strand of honey blond hair back into her kapp. “I don’t know. I’ve never considered working at a plant nursery before. How do you know I’ll be any gut at it? I may be a huge disappointment to Molly, and I don’t want that to happen.”

“You like working with Mamm in the garden, ain’t so? This would be similar, only you’ll be working with flowers instead of vegetables.”

“Flowers, you say?” Elsie’s heart jumped a little at the thought. “That sounds real nice, but I have no idea how to grow flowers, Elsie.”

“I’m sure Molly will teach you. She’s very smart, you know.”

Fear gurgled inside of Jane’s stomach. “I know that, Elsie. But what if I don’t measure up?”

“Ach, that’s not going to happen. You’ll be just fine…” Elsie’s voice trailed off, and Jane couldn’t help but notice the hint of worry in her tone. Ja, her family didn’t always think the best of her, either. There was no doubt about it.

“Vell, I just might take her up on her offer. Though I don’t know if I’ll be a gut fit for the job.”

“Wunderbar! I’ll let Molly know right away.” Elsie’s voice rushed through the line before she grew quiet. “…but there is one thing I think I should make you aware of. Elias Potter lives right next door to the nursery, and his grandson, Ryan, has left his position as a medic to help him out for a while. Ryan isn’t such a gut man in my opinion, and I hope you don’t run into him while you’re working at the nursery.”

Jane’s stomach squeezed. “Ryan? I shouldn’t be worried about him, Elsie. I’m much more concerned about running into his granddaed. Don’t you remember what a bear he was when I worked for him at the co-op? And I’m pretty sure Elias had me fired from the pet store.”

“And don’t you remember how Ryan’s gossip almost ruined my reputation?” Elsie countered. “After I broke up with Harry and he was spreading lies about me, Ryan took those lies and ran with them. He almost spoiled my relationship with Gabe.”

Jane winced as she paced around Josie’s kitchen, which was decorated in calm, beachy colors. “I think we both have a reason to be worried, then. Maybe I shouldn’t take the job after all.”

“No, no. You should take it.” Elsie’s words came out in a rush. “I’ll let Molly know your intentions right away. You can return by next week, right?”

“Ja…I guess that’ll be okay.”

“Gut. I can’t wait to see you again, Jane.”

Jane frowned as the line went dead. She’d been hung up on. But she guessed she couldn’t blame Elsie, since she was afraid she’d change her mind. Shrugging her shoulders, Jane gingerly placed Josie’s cell phone down on top of her granite countertop.

It looked like she’d be headed home to Clear Creek very soon.

“So…are you finished speaking to Elsie?” Josie poked her head into the bright kitchen, her blue eyes curious.

“Ja, I finished just now. Denki for letting me use your phone.”

“It’s no problem at all.” Josie breezed into the kitchen wearing an off-white sundress that accented her bronze skin. Her blonde hair was pulled back into a braid, and tiny gold hoop earrings matched the bracelet on her wrist. “I’m glad you got the chance to talk to our sister. Are you gonna head back to Clear Creek anytime soon?”

Jane drew her hand to her cheek, flustered. “Ach, I haven’t overstayed my welkom, have I? I’m sorry, Josie.”

“No, it’s not that at all. I was just hoping you’d accept Molly’s job offer. I think it would be good for you.”

“Wait a minute…how’d you know about the job offer? Has Elsie spoken to you about this already?”

Josie clapped her hand over her mouth, looking embarrassed. “You caught me. I’m sorry, Jane. Elsie thought it might be a good idea to speak to me about it before she brought it up to you. To get my opinion, you know.”

“Ja…your opinion about me.” A sour feeling settled in Jane’s stomach as she thought about her sisters discussing her life behind her back. As always, Jane felt a little bit smaller than she should have.

“We meant nothing by it. I promise.” Josie crossed the room and gave Jane’s hand a gentle squeeze. “You’re our younger sister, and we just want what’s best for you. I think it’s a wonderful idea for you to work at Molly’s nursery. Think of how much fun it will be.”

Jane rolled her eyes, annoyed at Josie’s attempt to change the subject so quickly. And ja, the idea of working with flowers did sound a little fun. If only it wasn’t right next door to Elias Potter’s house.

“I just hope I don’t run into Molly’s neighbor.”

“Who, Ryan? Oh, that’s right. He stopped working as a medic to help take care of his grandfather, didn’t he? Well, I don’t blame you, there. Not after the way his gossip affected Elsie. I’d want to stay far away from him.”

Jane’s lips tipped into a smile, amused by the fact that Josie was more up to date on Clear Creek’s gossip than she was. “Nee, not Ryan. I’m worried about Elias Potter. He’s never forgiven me for quitting my job at his co-op.”

“I’m sure it will be just fine,” Josie remarked. “Hudson, Cora, and I will definitely miss you here, but I think returning to Clear Creek is definitely what’s best for you.”

“I guess I’ll find that out soon enough, ain’t so?” Jane sighed while wiping her sweaty palms across her crisp, white apron. Elsie and Josie might think they knew what was best for her, but Jane definitely wasn’t too sure. 

***

Ryan Potter’s back was as stiff as a board as he sat inside of Amos Beachy’s slightly musty barn. He pressed down the sigh that rumbled deep inside of him. He didn’t want to be around anyone after the conversations he’d had with his granddaed recently, for certain sure. Yet, there he sat, surrounded by the entire Amish community of Clear Creek before their biweekly church service began.

It wasn’t like Ryan wasn’t grateful for all his grandparents had done for him throughout the years. No, it wasn’t that at all. But why did Ryan have to give up his career in order to fulfill his granddaed’s wishes? 

It’s your duty. The thought bounced around in his head like a ping-pong ball. Ja, caring for his grandfather was definitely his duty, especially since his grandmother had passed away the year before. They’d raised him after his parents jumped the fence, after all. But while his grandfather was definitely slowing down, he still could care for himself. Why had he asked Ryan to stop working at Gilmer Mountainside Hospital when he could’ve simply stopped by to check on him each day on his way home from work?

He wants you to take over the farming co-op. He’s made that very clear. The thought breezed through Ryan’s head as his eyes roamed across the gathering. More people trickled into the barn as he eyed his grandfather, who was sitting at the front of the men’s side of the congregation. His sturdy cane was resting by his side as he conversed quietly with Bishop Fisher. 

Ryan had always thought Elias Potter was a strong man. A gut man. And ja, it was his duty to listen to his wishes.

But what about what Ryan wanted?

“Hey, do you mind scooting over a little so my boys and I can join you?”

Ryan shook his head away from his thoughts as he gazed up at Gabe Yoder, who was standing by his side. He’d first met Gabe when he began working together at the hospital a little over a year ago. His twin boys stood by his side, and they had a case of the wiggles.

Gabe was a gut man, and Ryan missed seeing him each day since he’d quit his job. But there was one problem with his family. 

Ryan was pretty sure Gabe’s wife, Elsie, hated him.

Ryan hadn’t meant to harm Elsie’s reputation by sharing with Gabe the lies Harry Baker had spread about her. He hadn’t known they were lies at the time, and that Harry was a scoundrel. Gabe and Elsie hadn’t even started courting yet, and Ryan didn’t know that Gabe had liked the woman as more than a friend.

But the damage had been done. When Ryan had apologized to Elsie, she’d remained tight-lipped as she nodded stoically. He could tell that she didn’t believe him. Either that, or she wasn’t willing to forgive him.

He hoped the latter wasn’t the case.

Ryan motioned for Gabe, Jeff, and Andy to sit next to him as he scooted down the bench. “Ja, sure. There’s plenty of room for everyone.”

“Denki.” Gabe deftly moved into the aisle of back-less wooden benches, and his boys followed him. As soon as Gabe had taken a seat, he elbowed Ryan in the ribs.

“We’ve missed you at the hospital. How’s life going with your granddaed?”

“I don’t know, to be honest with you. I’ve barely gotten settled. He’s been ornery ever since my grandmother passed away last year, which is to be expected.”

“Ja, I had a time of it after Matilda passed. I thank Gott everyday for sending Elsie my way. She’s been my saving grace, for certain sure.”

Ryan’s eyes roamed towards Elsie, who was trying to find a seat on the women’s side of the gathering with her sister, Jane. His breath caught as he looked at the youngest Lantz sister. She was wearing a light blue dress that accented her eyes. Jane’s honey blonde hair was twisted neatly underneath her prayer covering, and her face lit up in a smile as Elsie spoke into her ear.

She was absolutely perfect.

Ryan could feel his neck grow hot. He’d admired Jane from afar ever since he’d moved to Clear Creek as a teenager. When his parents had decided to become Mennonites instead of continuing as members of the Amish church, Ryan had pleaded to remain with the Amish. His parents had agreed, but only if Ryan would make the move from Ohio to live with his grandparents in North Georgia. Ever since then, he’d been captivated by Jane. She was one to speak her mind, and sometimes even stuck her foot in her mouth, like he did. And yet, he’d never gotten up the nerve to speak to her much.

“Is that Jane with your frau? She’s been gone from services for a month or so, ain’t?”

“Ja, Jane has been vacationing with her sister Josie on Tybee Island. She was pretty upset when she lost her job at Pet Emporium, and wanted a change of scenery.”

“That’s too bad. What brought her back?”

“Vell, she’s been offered a new job at David and Molly Fisher’s plant nursery. She’ll be starting there soon.”

Ryan’s chest tightened. The Fisher’s nursery, Sprout & Bloom, was right next to his granddaed’s farm.

“Is that so? I hope she likes her new job.”

Gabe heaved out a sigh. “I do, too. Elsie’s been mighty worried about Jane lately. She’s having a hard time holding down a job. Both Elsie and Josie hope that working with Molly might solve Jane’s problems. She hasn’t had gut luck working with farm supplies or animals, but flowers might be her calling in life.”

Ryan raised an eyebrow. “Her calling in life? Really?”

Gabe covered his mouth with his hand, muffling his laugh. “Vell, it might not be that serious. But we’d all like to see Jane settle down and become more stable. Her larger than life personality can be a bit much sometimes, ain’t so?”

Ryan’s lips puckered. He thought Jane was just perfect as she was. Though he did want her to be happy and stable.

A hush grew over the crowd as Bishop Fisher stepped away from Elias and towards the front of the congregation. The men stopped their conversation and turned their heads reverently towards the Bishop. But Ryan’s mind didn’t stop turning.

Nope, it was a million miles away as the congregation rose to sing songs out of the Ausbund. He tried his best to pay attention to the service which was preached in high German, but he didn’t catch much of that, either.

Except the verses expounded about contentment. Ja, it probably would do Ryan gut if he listened better.

He needed to be content, and do what his granddaed had asked of him with a smile on his face. He should be content with Elsie’s treatment of him, and accept that she’d come around eventually if it were Gott’s will.

But instead, Ryan continued to stew. He was probably paying less attention to Bishop Fisher’s sermon than the Yoder twins.

After three hours of preaching by three different speakers, the congregation finally rose to their feet to sing before being dismissed for another two weeks. Ryan snuck a peek towards Elsie and Jane. Jane was paying him no mind, but Elsie was frowning in his direction.

She probably didn’t like the fact that Gabe was even standing next to him today.

Bishop Fisher returned to the front of the gathering as Ryan tried to work out a crick in his neck. “The Lord bless you and keep you, the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you, the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace. Amen.”

And just like that, the service was over.

“Daed, can we go see Mother now?” Jeff asked Gabe with a toothless grin.

“Of course. We’ll all go.” Gabe nudged Ryan in the ribs. “Even Ryan, here. He’ll be living right next door to Jane’s workplace soon, and maybe he’d like to say hullo.”

Ryan felt his cheeks burn as the twins scampered away. Sure, he’d like to say hello to Jane. But how would Elsie feel about that?

“I can hardly believe how well Jeff and Andy have taken to Elsie being my frau. Though she’ll never take the place of Matilda in their hearts, they insist on calling her Mother. Isn’t that nice?”

“Ja, sure.” Ryan’s mind was far away as the men began to shuffle through the crowd.

“Elsie wasn’t sure how the adjustment period would be after we married, but I couldn’t have asked for a smoother transition.”

Ryan was happy for his friend. He truly was. But at the moment, all he was worried about was smoothing things over with Elsie. He’d apologized to her a couple of times for spreading Harry’s lies in the past, though his words were usually rushed or stilted. He could tell she didn’t really accept his apology.

And why should she after all Ryan had said and done?

“Here we are. I’m so happy to be next to my beautiful bride again.”

Elsie playfully rolled her eyes as the men approached the Lantz sisters. “It was only for a few hours Gabe, and I was practically sitting across the aisle from you.”

“Ach, even a few hours is too much.” Gabe wiggled his eyebrows while Ryan bit back a groan. These two were newlyweds, alright.

“It’s nice to see you, Ryan.” Elsie’s voice turned both formal and clipped as she addressed Ryan. He could tell that she wished he hadn’t tagged along with Gabe. Ryan felt like crawling underneath a rock. He’d like to apologize again, but now definitely wasn’t the time.

“It’s nice to see you, too.” Ryan hoped his sincerity was evident as he offered both Elsie and Jane a broad smile. Jane’s mouth tipped into a grin as she placed a hand on her hip, but Elsie only frowned. If Elsie wasn’t going to enjoy speaking to him, Ryan decided that he might as well give his attention to Jane instead.

“You’ve got a gut suntan, ain’t so? Did you enjoy your time on Tybee Island?”

Jane turned towards Ryan, giving him her full attention. “Ja, I did. How’d you know that I’ve been on Tybee Island?”

“Vell, I noticed that you’ve been away, and Gabe let me know that you’ve been visiting your sister, Josie.”

Ryan noticed Elsie nudge Gabe with her elbow.

“Hey, what’d I do?” Gabe asked while rubbing his side.

“Nothing…nothing.” Elsie’s cheeks pinked as she took hold of Jane’s arm. “We need to get to the kitchen, Jane. I’m sure Sadie and Nora would like the extra help while we serve lunch.”

“Right.” Jane looked like a sad puppy as she started to walk away with her sister. “Maybe I can speak to you more later, Ryan.”

Though his heart jumped at the thought, Ryan restrained himself. He wouldn’t be speaking to Jane again if Elsie had anything to do with it.

“Everyone, watch out!”

Ryan’s eyes grew wide as a loud screech echoed through the crowd. After the screech, came squeals. Lots of squeals. 

Jane brought her hands to her cheeks, alarm scurrying across her face. “Ach, it looks like Amos’s pigs got loose and they’re heading right towards us!”

Without thinking, Ryan grabbed Jane by the waist and hoisted her on top of the nearest bench. He felt her body tremble as he scooted next to her before the animals rumbled past.

If you enjoyed this chapter, purchase Her Simple Amish Wish here. It’s also available on Kindle Unlimited.

An Appalachian Engagement Sample

NicoleLeave a comment

 If you’d like to order this book, click here.

Chapter One

Grace Taylor’s nerves felt as bumpy as the gravel parking lot as she pulled into the drive leading to the Yoder Blacksmith Shop. The marketing executive clenched her teeth as her phone began to ring for the seventh time in the past hour. The name Lucas Mitchell flashed across the screen. Grace glared at her phone as she swiped to dismiss the call as quickly as possible. She’d left the office only fifteen minutes ago, and Lucas was calling her already? It didn’t matter that he was her boss. After their run in this morning, she decided to avoid him as much as humanly possible from this point forward.

A managerial position had opened up at Clear Creek Creative Marketing a month ago, and Grace had applied for the job. Unfortunately, she didn’t get it. The owners of the firm awarded the position to Lucas Mitchell from Atlanta, a man who was at least ten years her senior. He’d immediately taken a liking to Grace, and officially made his intentions clear this morning. She’d rushed out of the office as quickly as possible after she’d turned him down when he’d asked her out. His brooding eyes had turned dark, and she didn’t like the chill that shivered up her spine when she’d said no.

Grace maneuvered around both cars and buggies before pulling into a parking spot close to the blacksmith shop. She wiped her sweaty palms on her jeans and rested her head on the steering wheel, trying to regain her composure. She couldn’t show up flustered to her meeting with John Yoder. That wouldn’t do at all. One of the reasons she didn’t get the promotion was because she lacked experience. The only way to get the experience she needed to climb the corporate ladder was to fill her portfolio with successful marketing campaigns and happy customers. She planned to do just that, starting with John Yoder.

Grace pulled a compact from her purse and looked in the rear view mirror while applying her makeup. After her unwelcome encounter with Lucas, she looked like she’d seen a ghost. After adding a touch of color to her cheeks, Grace put the makeup away and ran a brush through her long, blonde hair. Satisfied, she grabbed her tablet with all of John’s information before sliding out of her SUV and gently closing the door behind her.

Her breath came out in puffs as she took quick steps towards the Yoder Blacksmith Shop. The shop shared a parking lot with the Yoder General Store, and both businesses were very popular in the area. Grace watched as a cool mist curled around Blackberry Mountain, which the blacksmith shop was nestled into. Despite the sour feeling in her stomach, Grace was glad she lived in the charming southern Appalachian mountain town tucked into North Georgia. Clear Creek was the best town in the whole entire world, in her opinion.

Grace noticed a small crowd gathered to the side of the blacksmith shop. It looked like John was giving a demonstration underneath the open pavilion where he’d set up an area for his tools and supplies. A brick furnace and chimney were centered in the space, and John was currently removing a piece of metal from the furnace with a pair of tongs.

A frown tugged at her lips as she looked down at her watch. She was early. Grace had been in such a rush to escape Lucas, she’d arrived way before she needed to. While she knew her new boss had a crush on her for the past week, this was the first time he’d made his intentions known. She didn’t like the way he looked her up and down and tried to sit too close to her during business meetings. He’d asked her to stay late to work on a project with him three times this week, and each time Grace had found an excuse to scurry home. 

But she couldn’t keep making excuses forever. Grace knew that she needed to come up with a plan if she was going to continue to work for Clear Creek Creative Marketing. Grace chewed on her lip while watching John work. She didn’t know what to do, but something had to change.

Deciding to ignore her problem for now, Grace watched as John expertly shaped the heated metal into what looked like a candlestick. She was captivated by the way his strong arms could be so precise in his work.

“And this is how I make candlesticks, which are perfect for holiday celebrations, I might add. If you’re interested in purchasing one, Emma can help you just inside.”

“Did you make everything for sale in this shop?” A woman wearing a toboggan and bright red lipstick asked the question while waving her hand in John’s direction.

“Ja, I surely did. I enjoy making quality products for you to enjoy.”

A murmur flowed through the crowd, and Grace noticed him straighten to his full height in appreciation. She couldn’t help but smile while watching him interact with his customers.

Grace was good friends with John’s sister Lydia, but hadn’t had the pleasure of spending too much time with him. John seemed friendly enough, but both his size and stare had always intimidated her. John was a tall man, who often went out of his way to avoid her. She looked him over while he carefully laid the candlestick on a fireproof table. His dark brown hair peeked out from underneath his wool hat and she noticed that his brown eyes had specks of gold, much like his sisters. 

Grace hugged the tablet close to her body as a brisk wind blew through the crowd. Ignoring the chill that shivered through her body, Grace wished she’d worn a warmer jacket. Though it was only November, it seemed like winter was coming early to the small mountain community.

“I’ll be here for a while to answer any questions you may have. Denki for coming to my demonstration today. There is another one scheduled in two hours. I’ll be making horseshoes at that time.”

The small group clapped, and Grace couldn’t help but join them. She nudged her tablet underneath her elbow while showing her appreciation.

His eyes caught hers while his patrons stood to their feet to either speak to him or browse the wide selection of products in his shop. At first John looked confused, and then understanding registered across his face. Grace motioned for him to take his time, while she took a seat on one of the wooden benches set up for his audience. She crossed her legs while turning on her tablet to look over the notes she’d taken about John’s needs earlier in the day. Thoughts of Lucas scuttled out of her head as she settled into the homey, mountain environment. Christmas was just around the corner, and she began calculating the gifts she could purchase from John’s shop.

After a few minutes, she heard footsteps coming towards her. Looking up, she realized it was John taking long strides in her direction. Grace stiffened while giving herself an internal pep talk. She hoped John would like what she and her firm had to offer in the marketing department.

At the same time, she wondered why he wanted to do business with them in the first place. Grace knew that the Amish usually relied on word of mouth to build their businesses, not fancy marketing firms.

“Hello John, it’s nice to see you today.” Grace tried to appear professional as she stood to her feet and raised her hand to shake his.

Her determination wavered when she saw the caution in his eyes. She watched his lip twitch as he reluctantly reached out his hand to take hers. Grace sucked in her breath as his large hand enveloped her own. She felt overwhelmed by both his tall stature and brooding eyes, and she couldn’t help but notice the warmth that rushed up her arm at his touch.

“It’s nice to see you too, Grace. I didn’t expect the marketing firm to send you over.”

Niggles of doubt in her ability to be a proficient marketer ate at her stomach. She tried to look confident while staring him in the eye.

“You knew that I worked for Clear Creek Creative Marketing, didn’t you? I thought Lydia would’ve told you, at least.”

Grace had become good friends with John’s sister Lydia when she helped her own sister Amelia convert to the Amish faith a couple of years ago. While Grace spent most of her time working with clients, she liked to spend any free time she had with both Amelia and Lydia.

John scrubbed his hand across the back of his neck. “Ja, she might have mentioned it. I just wasn’t expecting to see you here. I figured someone else would’ve come to help me.”

He didn’t expect a woman marketer to come. Grace knew the Amish believed in traditional gender roles, and she should’ve expected he wouldn’t take kindly for her to be in charge of his account.

“You expected a man to come, didn’t you? I can have someone else assigned to your account if you’d like.” Grace mumbled the words while staring at the floor.

“No, it’s not that.”

“Really?” Hope pressed through her, and she regained a speck of confidence.

“Nee…it’s just that I didn’t expect my marketer to be so…pretty.”

Grace raised her eyebrows while pecking at her tablet, ready to take notes about what John expected her to help with. Slightly annoyed that it looked like she might have to ward off the advances of two men in a single day, Grace shot him what she hoped was a daring stare.

“Is that so?”

“Ja, well…I guess I’ll get used to it. You must know what you’re doing if you were assigned to my account…right?”

She pursed her lips. “Right. I’m fully qualified to help you, John. No matter what your needs are.

His shoulders slumped in relief. “That sounds gut, because I’m going to need all of the help I can get during this holiday season.”

“What do you mean?” Grace motioned to the customers who were currently milling around his demonstration area, admiring his equipment. She watched as Emma checked out a customer through the store window, with two more waiting their turn.

“It looks like you’re doing well here. There were a lot of people at your demonstration, and they’ve turned into paying customers.” She shrugged her shoulders while pushing her long hair over her shoulder. “What gives?”

John gently took Grace by the elbow and led her to the corner of the pavilion. The air felt sharp with tension because the steel used to make John’s products had expanded and contracted repeatedly. She tried to ignore the flutters she felt in her stomach as they pushed away from the crowd. Being alone almost felt too intimate, and for a moment, Grace wondered why she agreed to take on this account.

“I need your help, Grace. While it may seem like business is doing well, it’s way down from previous years. You see, a new business moved into town a couple of months ago. It’s a commercialized store offering iron and steel items. Most of it is cheap junk. None of it is handmade. But the tourists don’t know that, and they haven’t been visiting my store as often.” 

She watched as he fisted his fingers by his side before continuing. “I don’t know what to do. I thought if I hired an Englisch marketing firm, you might have a unique perspective that I haven’t thought of yet.”

Grace cocked her head in thought. “Are you talking about Mountain Metalworks? I noticed a lot of cars in their parking lot when I passed by to meet you today.”

“Ja, that’s the one.” John’s face looked grim as he took Grace by the hand. “Do you think you can help me?”

***

John regretted taking Grace’s hand as soon as she quickly snatched it away. He didn’t know what had just come over him. His new competitor had him all out of sorts.

It didn’t help that Grace was a spitting image of his old aldi who’d left him several years ago. He did his best to avoid Grace whenever she hung out with Lydia, but now, it looked like he had no choice but to learn how to spend time with her.

Karen Glick had left him high and dry when he’d been just about ready to propose. She said he was working too hard, and she didn’t like the long hours he spent in the blacksmith shop. Didn’t she realize he was just trying to prepare for their future?

Grace gave him the side eye while tapping on her tablet. “Yeah, I think I can help you. I’ll do my best, anyway.” She looked curious as her eyes scanned his shop. “I was wondering why you hired a marketing firm in the first place, but it makes better sense now.”

John followed Grace’s gaze as looked at his workplace. He’d worked hard with his daed to build it as soon as he’d been old enough to do so. It was hard to believe that he was now pushing thirty, and he’d been working in this shop for over a decade.

They’d built the shop out of logs hauled in from a tree farm up in Blue Ridge. The men in their church district all came to help, and within only one week, the structure was up and ready for its finishing touches. The community had rallied around him as he started his business, and he’d felt so proud on the early summer day when he first opened for business.

Only one shadow remained in his memory about his Grand Opening…that was when he met Karen. She’d come with her daed to look for a new plow for their fields. Her blonde hair and sparkling blue eyes had captivated him, and he knew then and there that he wanted her to be his. Their relationship had worked well…until it didn’t. John swallowed the lump that grew in his throat while glancing at Grace.

“You have a beautiful shop here. I can see why it’s been popular in our community for so many years now.”

“Well, I wouldn’t call it beautiful. But it is functional.” John frowned as a shiver ran down his spine as a cool breeze passed between them. “I don’t know if I’d call it popular, either. That’s why I called your marketing team.”

Grace hugged her body as her chin took on a quiver. “It is popular, John. And I’m going to do my best to make it even more so.”

John finally registered how uncomfortable Grace looked, and reached for her arm. She was cold, and here he was keeping her out in the chilly weather. Her arm felt small as he led her inside. He tried to ignore the way the scent of her strawberry shampoo tickled his nose.

“I’m sorry for not bringing you inside sooner. Here, let me get the door for you.” John opened the door and propped it open with his toe as Grace stepped inside.

“It’s…it’s alright. I won’t freeze to death.”

“It’s already gut and cold, and it’s only late November. I imagine we have a harsh winter ahead of us.”

“Yeah, I think you’re right.” Grace stopped in her tracks as her eyes swept across the room. “Wow John, you have an amazing store. I can’t believe I’ve never stepped foot in here.”

The room was warm and welcoming, with a soaring ceiling and intricate beam work. Large logs lined the walls, and the floors were made of stone from a local quarry. John couldn’t help but feel a hint of pride as he looked at the metal work products for sale that lined the room. He’d made each item by hand, and he was happy to offer these products to his community.

That is, if they decided to continue shopping with him.

An ache zig-zagged across his temple as he watched a handful of customers shop his products. The holiday season was fast approaching, and his revenue was definitely down.

Another cool blast of air entered the room as the door swung open. John frowned as his sister Lydia walked in, carrying a large box on her hip. Her swollen belly peeked out from beneath her burgundy cape dress. What was she doing carrying such a heavy load while expecting?

In an instant, John was at her side and plucked the box for her arms.

“What do you think you’re doing little schweschder? You can hurt the bobbeli by carrying such things, ain’t so? And where’s Matthew?”

Lydia wrinkled her nose at her brother. “That box is as light as a feather, as I’m sure you can now tell. It only contains some holly branches for decorating. Matthew is with our customers at the general store, as he should be. A pregnant woman can still be helpful.”

Grace smiled as she watched the siblings argue. “It’s nice that you two have each other. I’m glad I have Amelia to talk to from time to time, but it’s just not the same since she became Amish. I can’t pick up the phone and call her anytime I want. We lost my brother Jake about five years ago now. Sometimes I feel very alone.”

John felt his heart tug as her voice grew softer. He never knew what it felt like to be alone since he grew up with seven siblings. Most of them still lived in Clear Creek, and Lydia lived right next door with her husband, Matthew Lapp. Their parents, Leroy and Elma Yoder, retired to Pinecraft, Florida last year. While it still felt strange without them being around all of the time, they visited Clear Creek several times a year. John didn’t mind having a Florida retreat to visit, either. Especially when the weather turned cold in North Georgia.

“Ach Grace, you’re not alone.” Lydia grasped her hands as concern laced her eyes. “You can visit me whenever your heart desires.”

“That’s right. And Grace will be helping me market the blacksmith shop this holiday season, too. You two should have plenty of time to visit if Grace comes by to meet with me often.”

Lydia raised an eyebrow. “You’ve hired Grace’s marketing firm to help you, John? I know you’ve struggled since Mountain Metalworks opened for business, but has it come to this?”

Grace shifted uncomfortably as the siblings stood toe to toe.

“Ja, I did. I didn’t know what else to do, Lydia. I know our way is normally word of mouth and community involvement, but desperate times call for desperate measures.” John looked at Grace sheepishly. “I hope you take no offense, Grace.”

She held up her hand in understanding. “No offense taken. While we are a marketing company and I plan to use social media to help your business grow, I also love to find unique ways to promote my accounts. Now then, can you tell me what you hope to accomplish with your marketing blitz?”

John licked his lips, and for the first time he doubted his decision to hire Clear Creek Creative Marketing. Perhaps he was getting in over his head.

“Well, I’d simply like to draw more customers into my shop, and perhaps let them know about the gut quality products I make and sell.”

Grace typed a few notes into her tablet. “I can definitely help you with that. If you don’t mind, I’d like to take a few pictures of your store and demonstration area before I leave. I also plan to visit your competitor soon, to see what they’re bringing to the table.”

John shrugged his shoulders after sharing a glance with Lydia. “Ja, I guess that sounds alright. Just try not to get any people in your photographs, please.”

“I’ll be very careful not to. If it’s okay with you, I’ll do that now. I’ll be back in just a few minutes.”

John noticed the bright flecks in her blue eyes as she walked away. Trying not to frown, his eyes followed her as she snapped a few photos of a display of cooking utensils he’d made over the last month or two. It was going to be difficult to work with a woman who resembled his old aldi so closely.

“She looks like Karen, ja?” John leaned close to his sister to speak as Grace walked towards the next display.

Lydia raised her eyebrows. “She favors her a little, maybe. But John, be careful to not compare Grace to Karen. It’s not fair to her, and they are two completely different people. Besides, why are you still thinking about Karen, anyway? It’s been years since you’ve been together.”

His thoughts grew muddled as he continued to watch Grace. “I guess because I thought we were going to spend the rest of our lives together and then it didn’t work out.”

Lydia gave his arm a squeeze. “Life doesn’t always work out the way we want it to, bruder. And it normally works out for the best. Remember that while working with Grace, ja? You don’t want to burden your relationship with a memory from the past.” Her lips pressed into a straight line. “And while I understand why you hired Grace’s firm, remember, just be yourself. It doesn’t matter what your competitor does. The right customers are sure to find you.”

John frowned. He didn’t know if he could do what Lydia suggested. Surely, she didn’t understand how desperate his situation was. He didn’t think that he could bring in customers without Englisch marketing help, which was why Grace was here in the first place. He stewed silently while thinking it over.

“Well then, do you mind if I spruce up your shop with this holly? I should be out of your hair in a jiffy.”

Lydia snapped him back to reality. “Sure, have at it. Do you need any help?”

“Nee, I plan to hang it around the checkout counter for now. When it comes time to use a ladder to decorate, I’ll be sure to ask for help. I wouldn’t want to take a tumble while being pregnant.”

John nodded his head as his eyes continued to track Grace. “Okay, that sounds gut to me.”

She elbowed his side while watching his eyes. “You’re staring a hole right through Grace, ja?”

He gave his little sister a teasing glare. “Mind your own business, Lydia.”

Her laughter tinkled through the store as she walked towards the checkout counter. “I’ll try, bruder. I’ll try.”

After taking pictures of his demonstration area outside for a few minutes, Grace walked back to him, breathless. Her cheeks looked rosy and full while she held up a candlestick in admiration.

“I’ve really enjoyed checking out your shop, John. How do you do such precision work? This candlestick, for instance. It’s beautiful. I plan to buy it and put it on the mantle in my apartment.”

His chest felt tight as he watched her examine his handiwork. She spun the candlestick with her fingers, examining it from all angles.

“There’s no need for you to buy it, Grace. I’d like to give it to you. It’s the least I can do for you. You’re going to help me a gut bit this holiday season.”

Her eyes grew wide. “Oh no, John. I couldn’t accept this. You’re paying my firm for my work and I…”

Her voice trailed off as he left her side and walked towards Emma.

“Emma, could you hand me a bag and a couple of pieces of wrapping paper?”

Emma’s dark brown eyes questioned him as she reached underneath the counter and did his bidding. “Sure thing, John. Are you sure this isn’t something I can take care of?”

“Nee.” After his simple reply, he walked back to Grace’s side and packaged the candlestick for her right then and there.

Grace’s hand rose to her chest in appreciation as her eyes crinkled into a warm smile. “John…thank you. I’ll come up with a marketing plan after I take a look at Mountain Metalworks, and share it with you soon. Does that sound alright?”

“Ja, that suits me just fine.” Uncertainty twisted his insides as he watched her walk out the door and back to the parking lot. He hoped his plan to hire Grace’s firm worked, and he would live to tell the tale. He didn’t know if that could happen if she kept looking at him like that.

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Becoming His Amish Sweetheart Sample Chapter

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Chapter 1

“Your order’s coming right up.” 

Amelia Taylor forced a tight smile on her lips while clicking on the mouse and pulling up Josh Brown’s invoice. Her bright blue eyes quickly scanned the instructions on the computer screen before motioning for her assistant Henry to come closer.

“Hey Henry, could you load Mr. Brown’s order for him please?” She pointed at a number to indicate where he was headed.

“Sure thing.” The teenager grabbed the keys for the forklift, ready to load the pallet of pumpkins into Josh’s truck.

“Thanks, Amelia. You’re the best.” Josh tipped his hat before stepping away from the counter.

Amelia sighed while brushing a stray piece of blonde hair behind her ear. She sure didn’t feel the best at the moment. Since her twin brother Jake died in a farming accident two years ago, working at her family’s pumpkin farm felt plain hard. She hadn’t acted like herself since that terrible day, and yet she dragged herself to the pumpkin patch each weekend to help her parents fill orders at their bustling farm nestled in the southern Blue Ridge Mountains. 

Both pumpkin farms and apple orchards dotted the landscape in Gilmer County, Georgia. Tourists came from miles around to purchase fresh produce in the fall. Visitors enjoyed both the food and the atmosphere, and so had Amelia. But now, her family’s small farm in the town of Clear Creek had lost its sparkle. While there, all she could think about was Jake and how he should still be enjoying life right along with her. The twenty-year-old spent most of her time at the local community college, although she didn’t have any idea what to major in or do with her life.

Amelia bit her lip as her thoughts snapped back to reality. She needed to take care of business and stop daydreaming. Looking up, she held her breath as a figure walked towards her.

The Amish man looked to be about her age, or maybe a little older. His blue eyes caught her own as they crinkled into a smile, and she couldn’t help to return it. Suddenly self conscious, she tugged at her sweater and wiped her sweaty palms on her jeans.

Amelia had always admired the Amish who lived in Clear Creek, but since her brother’s accident, she’d avoided everything that had to do with farming like the plague. She missed the simple, idyllic life she used to live. If only she could go back in time.

“I came to pick up my order. The name’s Abram Miller.”

“Got it. Give me just a minute while I look up your invoice.”

Amelia’s fingers shook as she typed his name onto the screen. She sensed him watching her, and she shyly took a second look.

He wore gray pants and a crisp, white shirt. Sandy blonde hair peaked out from underneath his straw hat. His arms were strong, tan, and currently folded over his chest.

Suddenly tongue-tied, Amelia turned her face away. Her cheeks burned as she realized that his stare made her stomach flip-flop.

“Okay, it doesn’t look like your order is very large. My assistant is with another customer right now. Do you mind loading it yourself?” She smiled apologetically. “I can help you if you’d like.

Abram put up a hand in protest. “Ja, I can load my order. But you don’t have to help me. It looks like you have a lot of work to do.” 

“If you’re sure. Give me just a second to print out your invoice.”

Abram waited patiently as the printer spat out his piece of paper. With wobbly hands, Amelia handed it to Abram while motioning for him to follow her.

Why does this man have this effect on me?

Amelia pushed aside her peculiar feelings while dodging pallets of pumpkins on her way to the back of the barn. She sensed Abram close to her side as they stopped next to three cartons filled with a variety of pumpkins and gourds.

“Ja, this looks like my order alright. We own an orchard not far from here, and our customers like to purchase pumpkins, too. I think this mix will be a hot seller.”

“Um, that sounds good.” Amelia swatted at a fly that buzzed around her head. “If you need help with anything else, just let me know.”

Abram touched her wrist and gave it a gentle squeeze as she turned to go. “Hey…I didn’t catch your name.”

“Amelia. Amelia Taylor.”

He grinned widely. “Hullo, Amelia. Do your parent’s own this farm?”

She nodded while swallowing a giggle. His use of Pennsylvania Dutch was endearing. She’d grown up hearing it often in her small mountain community.

“Yep. My last name’s Taylor, after all.”

His name sounded familiar to her, too. Miller…Miller. She bit her lip. A light bulb went off in her head as she remembered where she’d heard the name before. Amelia shopped with both her mother and friend Valerie often, and a booth in her small Appalachian town’s shopping district contained intricate needlework bearing the name of Ruth Miller.

Their eyes locked, and she licked her lips. Amelia knew she should get back to the counter, but something intrigued her about Abram. Surprised that she wanted to learn more, she decided to continue their conversation.

“Are you by any chance related to Ruth Miller?”

“I am. She’s my mamm.”

She nodded. “I’ve seen your mother’s work for sale at the Clear Creek Marketplace. She is very talented.”

“I have to agree with you there.” Abram shuffled his feet on the packed dirt that lined the inside of the barn. “So, do you enjoy working on this farm?”

Amelia coughed as her stomach squeezed. “Um…not exactly. This business is owned by my family, and I’m needed here on the weekends. But I’d rather be somewhere else.” She sighed as she looked down at her hands, remembering Jake. Since the sorority house she normally lived in at her college was being renovated, Amelia had temporarily moved back into her parent’s home. Being here felt hard. “I…I don’t think life in this town is for me, and I’m just biding my time until I find a way to leave.”

Pain snaked through her as she stepped away. She really should get back to her counter.

His eyes questioned hers as he cocked his head. “You should be thankful that your family has been blessed with this farm. It’s filled with abundance.” He motioned towards the piles of pumpkins nearly bursting out of the barn. “What else could you want?”

Annoyed, she tapped her foot. Who was Abram to say what she should and shouldn’t want? He had no idea what she’d been through. “If you don’t mind, please keep in mind that you aren’t my boss. In fact, we’ve just met. You have absolutely no right to weigh in on my priorities.” She pushed her wavy blonde hair over her shoulder, avoiding eye contact. Her nerves felt jangly, and she didn’t know why.

He sighed. “I’m sorry if I offended you. Just believe me when I say life away from Clear Creek isn’t all that it’s cracked up to be.”

“How would you know? You’re Amish.”

Abram lowered his gaze to the ground before mumbling quietly. “You’re right…how would I know?”

Amelia sighed, reminding herself to be kind to her parents’ customers. Abram had no idea of the loss she’d experienced on this farm, and she wasn’t about to tell him. Not yet, anyhow.

She stole another glance. Abram shuffled his feet, looking slightly uncomfortable. A warmth spread over her as she let her defenses down for just a moment, remembering the simplicity and joy of her small town upbringing. Surprised, Amelia wondered why she felt this way.

“Look, thank you so much for shopping with us today. My family really appreciates your business.”

Abram’s shoulders relaxed. “And my family appreciates the Taylor Family Farm. Your pumpkins are top notch, and are icing to the cake when customers visit our orchard. By far, this is our favorite place to go when we need to refill our supply.” His eyes twinkled. “If all goes well, I should be back every few days.”

Since her sorority house was being renovated, she should be here, too. A jolt of regret pulsed through her. If she’d just taken care of her responsibilities two years ago, Jake would still be at this farm with her. Everything would be like it should. But instead, she was left without her twin and reminded of his accident whenever she stepped foot on the farm. He shouldn’t have been pinned by their tractor while trying to cover for her negligence.

“Hey…are you alright?” Abram took a step closer, and his earthy scent tickled her nose. She felt her throat tighten while wondering what to say next.

“Fine…I’m fine.”

He frowned. “You don’t look fine. Do you need to step outside of the barn for a minute? It’s awfully hot in here.”

Amelia nodded, and he gently took her by the elbow. Leading her out the door, they dodged pumpkins as they crossed a field and walked towards the shade of a mighty oak tree. Customers milled around with smiles on their faces, and she could hear children shriek with delight while they waited in line for her father’s hayride.

She sighed, defeated for the time being. Abram’s eyes bore into her as she leaned against the familiar tree. After taking a gulp of air, she felt slightly better.

“Would you like to talk about it?”

His words were calm, and to the point. For the first time in forever, Amelia thought yes, perhaps she would. There was something about Abram that made her feel at home. Her cheeks pinked. What was wrong with her? This man was both a customer and a stranger, and she shouldn’t be feeling this way. 

She held up her hand, a sign for Abram to stop in his tracks. “No…I’d rather not.”

His questioning eyes probed further.

“But thank you for leading me outside…for thinking of me. I’ve had a lot on my mind lately, and I definitely can use this fresh air.”

“Of course.” He brushed against her while leaning closer. “You had me worried, there. You looked awfully peaked when we were standing in the barn.”

Touched by his thoughtfulness, Amelia’s lips curved into a smile. Since losing her twin, she didn’t feel like anyone understood her like he had. She’d felt lonely, lost, and alone. 

They locked eyes, until a child bumped into them. Brought back to reality, Amelia’s gaze returned to the busy pumpkin patch. She noticed a group of people staring in their direction. Suddenly self conscious, Amelia hugged her middle.

“I think I’m fine now. Feel free to grab your order. I can check to see if Henry is available to help you now, if you’d like.”
“No, I got it.” He started to back away slowly. “I’m glad you’re feeling better. If you ever need a listening ear, I’ll be around.” He winked before turning away.

And just like that, he was gone.

Amelia sighed. What had come over her?

It’s like her senses were thrown out the window.

Growing up in Clear Creek, Amelia knew talking to an Amish man was like playing with fire. The Amish kept to themselves when it came to relationships between males and females.

Shyly, she watched as Abram carried a large box of pumpkins from the barn with ease and walked towards the group of horses and buggies tied to a hitching post. He was tall, and strong. Abram walked with quiet confidence, and she was surprised by her attraction to him.

She needed to squash it, and fast. After the farming accident, Amelia knew she couldn’t live in Clear Creek long term. The memories were just too painful.

As if on cue, Amelia’s sheepdog, Sadie, nuzzled her hand.

“Sadie, have you come to offer a hand?” The dog wagged her tail and licked Amelia on the arm. She laughed as she ran her hands through Sadie’s coarse fur. “You always know how to make me feel better.” Amelia sighed as she walked slowly back towards the barn. A vision of Abram’s concerned gaze burned into her conscience, and she squinted her eyes, hoping it would leave her mind quickly. 

***

Abram leaned back against the worn seat in his buggy, a smile filling the outline of his squared jaw. He guided his horse, Bessy, to make a right-hand turn towards his parent’s home in the heart of Amish country on the banks of Clear Creek. He glanced at the pumpkins behind him as the buggy continued slowly and steadily towards his childhood home. What a morning it had turned out to be. 

The fruit reminded him of Amelia Taylor…for some reason, he was quite taken by the Englisher. Her wavy blonde hair framed her pixie-like face before trailing down her back. Her blue eyes had bore into his with a sadness he wished he could take away. Abram found her short stature to be endearing as she led him to his order in the big, airy barn.

As much as he hated to admit it, he’d felt some attraction there. He wanted to comfort Amelia when her lips turned down and her posture stooped. In fact he wanted to do more than that. Abram wished he could have scooped her up in a hug right then and there. 

What was wrong with him? Why was he always attracted to things outside of his reach?

Abram had nearly broken his mamm and daed’s heart when he left town during his Rumschpringe. He’d come very close to leaving his Amish faith to seek a name for himself within the Englishe world as a musician during his running around years. After his rejection on the music scene, he realized the magnitude of what he’d left behind, Abram returned home to his roots, fully willing to accept his culture for the rest of his life.

This had been a few years ago, and Abram felt like he still hadn’t fully regained the trust of his family.

He wished they believed him when he said that he wasn’t going anywhere. Life outside of Clear Creek wasn’t all it was cracked up to be. It was calloused, and hard. Abram was fully content with his life in this small, Georgian community. Until he met Amelia Taylor, that is.

Bessie turned onto a tree-lined lane with its mountain backdrop while his thoughts returned to reality. Apple trees dotted the landscape over rising hills, and a handful of cars in the drive indicated customers were wandering the orchard to pick their delicious produce. It was good to be home. The white farmhouse was framed by his mother’s rambling rose bushes, and he spied his nieces, Ada and Abby, playing amongst the apple trees to the west side of the residence. He guided Bessie towards the barn as his mother stepped onto the front porch.

“Abram! I’m glad you are home! Were you able to pick up our order without any problems?”

“Ja, there were no problems at all.”

Ruth Miller hurried down the porch steps, her wide frame quickly closing in the distance between the two. “Tis gut to hear. Denki ever so much for stoppin’ by the Taylor farm for us today.”

“You’re welcome, I didn’t mind at all. I enjoyed giving Bessie a chance to run off some steam. I’ve been so busy in the apple orchards that I fear I’ve been neglectful to the mare.”

“Nee, she looks perfectly healthy to me.” Ruth patted her son’s arm. “Denki ever so much again. I didn’t want to load my two granddaughters into the buggy while they were havin’ so much fun playing outdoors.”

Abram looked at the two young girls romping amongst the trees. They belonged to his sister, Miriam, and his brother-in-law, Marcus. They were expecting another bobbeli, and his mother had agreed to watch her grandchildren while Miriam visited her midwife.

“Mamm, is everything going well with Miriam’s pregnancy? Is her visit today standard protocol?”

She smiled widely. “Ja, everything is going quite well, to my knowledge. You will have another niece or nephew in three months’ time.”

He sighed with relief. His parents Jed and Ruth Miller had only two living children. Most Amish families had many more. Miriam’s pregnancy was shaky at the start, and Abram was grateful to know all was going well now. His family was looking forward to this bobbeli’s arrival with great anticipation and joy.

“Wunderbaar, I’m glad to hear it. Miriam should be back soon, correct?”

Ruth nodded in agreement. “Once she arrives, we plan on eatin’ dinner before she and the children return to their home. Marcus will be working their land until sundown, so he won’t be joining us.”

Abram’s stomach rumbled. His mother was well known in Clear Creek for the delectable meals she prepared.  He began humming a tune as he unloaded the crate of pumpkins from his buggy. For a moment, not just hunger ate at him. Guilt gnawed his stomach, too. The pumpkins reminded him of a pretty blonde he had no business thinking about.

His mother frowned in disapproval. “Now son, singin’ Englishe music under your breath will get you in trouble quickly if the church elders catch wind of it. Please remember you are takin’ baptism classes and plan to fully commit to our church in just a few months.” He noticed Ruth’s shoulders sag as if a weight had been placed upon the dear woman’s back. “I cannot risk losing my son to the world once more.”

Abram looked down, as the impact of her words hit him square in the chest. He’d caused his mother great pain when he had left Clear Creek in search of a different life. “Mamm, you have nothing to worry about. I am here for gut.”

She nodded as she stoically watched her son unload their buggy. 

“Denki for the reassurance. I truly appreciate it.” Ruth wiped stray hair off of her face that had escaped from her kapp. “Look at all of the bounty flowing out of the buggy! Hopefully, we will need to return to the Taylor farm every few days. The fall apple pickin’ season is in full swing, and many tourists have been dropping in.”

Abram plopped the crate onto the fertile soil near his rig and began to pull the pumpkins out two by two. He hoped his mother was right. Much to his chagrin, Abram realized he would like nothing more than to see Amelia on a regular basis. 

Why he gravitated towards this woman, he would never know. His family would be heartbroken if they were privy to the thoughts swirling through his brain at the moment. He thought of her gentle features paired with her industrious spirit. He’d watched her for a moment before heading to the counter to pick up his order. She was both confident and proficient. Most Amish girls were a bit too reserved for his liking. He knew she fit his bill perfectly.

But, there was only one problem.

“Son, why do you have a faraway look in your eyes?” Ruth squinted as she looked directly at Abram’s face. “Did somethin’ exciting happen while you were at the pumpkin patch earlier?” She clasped her hands in excitement. “Better yet, did you meet a girl? There are many beautiful Amish girls that visit the Taylor Family Farm, ja?”

He hung his head as his cheeks turned a shade of red. He’d met a girl alright, but she wasn’t who his mother had in mind. “You know gut and well most Amish fellows like to keep their love lives under wraps. But if I ever ask a girl to be my frau, you will be the first to know.”

His mother beamed. “Abram, it does a mother’s heart gut to know her son is plannin’ on joining our church. When you do marry, that will be the icing on my cake.”

He sharply let out his breath while he lifted the last of the pumpkins from the crate. While Abram knew his parents had high hopes for him to marry soon, not a single Amish girl had caught his eye. Sure, he’d noticed many girls making moon eyes at him at his church meetings, but he was positive none of these girls were intended for him. They were all too much like Lydia Yoder, whom he had courted briefly before leaving for Nashville. Unfortunately, he realized that much like his taste in music, he preferred Englishe girls over their Amish counterparts.

“I hope to never disappoint you again. I have full intentions to live as an Amish man for the rest of my days.”

“Denki son, this is wunderbaar to hear.” Ruth patted her son on his back before turning towards the large, white farmhouse.

Abram removed his straw hat to run his fingers through his hair, while looking at his young nieces chasing a toad across the yard. He yearned to have a family of his own one day, and he couldn’t wait to be a daed to a house full of children who frolicked over the rolling hills of Clear Creek’s Amish farmland. It wouldn’t do for Abram to chase after a fancy woman. He never intended on hurting his parents during his Rumschpringe, and he vowed then and there to never do it again. 

Nonetheless, no matter how hard he tried, he couldn’t get Amelia off of his mind. Behind her confidence he’d sensed a sadness, and he wanted to get to the bottom of it. He was drawn to her, and wanted to protect her. A sigh blew through his lips.

Abram decided to pay another visit to the pumpkin patch as soon as possible. Surely no harm would come from an innocent conversation with the young woman.

An Appalachian Engagement Sample

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I’m getting so excited, friends. An Appalachian Engagement releases at the beginning of November!

This is the third novel in my Amish of Appalachia series. I’d love to share the first chapter with you here today.

If you’d like to pre-order the book, you can do that here. Happy reading!

Chapter One

Grace Taylor’s nerves felt as bumpy as the gravel parking lot as she pulled into the drive leading to the Yoder Blacksmith Shop. The marketing executive clenched her teeth as her phone began to ring for the seventh time in the past hour. The name Lucas Mitchell flashed across the screen. Grace glared at her phone as she swiped to dismiss the call as quickly as possible. She’d left the office only fifteen minutes ago, and Lucas was calling her already? It didn’t matter that he was her boss. After their run in this morning, she decided to avoid him as much as humanly possible from this point forward.

A managerial position had opened up at Clear Creek Creative Marketing a month ago, and Grace had applied for the job. Unfortunately, she didn’t get it. The owners of the firm awarded the position to Lucas Mitchell from Atlanta, a man who was at least ten years her senior. He’d immediately taken a liking to Grace, and officially made his intentions clear this morning. She’d rushed out of the office as quickly as possible after she’d turned him down when he’d asked her out. His brooding eyes had turned dark, and she didn’t like the chill that shivered up her spine when she’d said no.

Grace maneuvered around both cars and buggies before pulling into a parking spot close to the blacksmith shop. She wiped her sweaty palms on her jeans and rested her head on the steering wheel, trying to regain her composure. She couldn’t show up flustered to her meeting with John Yoder. That wouldn’t do at all. One of the reasons she didn’t get the promotion was because she lacked experience. The only way to get the experience she needed to climb the corporate ladder was to fill her portfolio with successful marketing campaigns and happy customers. She planned to do just that, starting with John Yoder.

Grace pulled a compact from her purse and looked in the rear view mirror while applying her makeup. After her unwelcome encounter with Lucas, she looked like she’d seen a ghost. After adding a touch of color to her cheeks, Grace put the makeup away and ran a brush through her long, blonde hair. Satisfied, she grabbed her tablet with all of John’s information before sliding out of her SUV and gently closing the door behind her.

Her breath came out in puffs as she took quick steps towards the Yoder Blacksmith Shop. The shop shared a parking lot with the Yoder General Store, and both businesses were very popular in the area. Grace watched as a cool mist curled around Blackberry Mountain, which the blacksmith shop was nestled into. Despite the sour feeling in her stomach, Grace was glad she lived in the charming southern Appalachian mountain town tucked into North Georgia. Clear Creek was the best town in the whole entire world, in her opinion.

Grace noticed a small crowd gathered to the side of the blacksmith shop. It looked like John was giving a demonstration underneath the open pavilion where he’d set up an area for his tools and supplies. A brick furnace and chimney were centered in the space, and John was currently removing a piece of metal from the furnace with a pair of tongs.

A frown tugged at her lips as she looked down at her watch. She was early. Grace had been in such a rush to escape Lucas, she’d arrived way before she needed to. While she knew her new boss had a crush on her for the past week, this was the first time he’d made his intentions known. She didn’t like the way he looked her up and down and tried to sit too close to her during business meetings. He’d asked her to stay late to work on a project with him three times this week, and each time Grace had found an excuse to scurry home. 

But she couldn’t keep making excuses forever. Grace knew that she needed to come up with a plan if she was going to continue to work for Clear Creek Creative Marketing. Grace chewed on her lip while watching John work. She didn’t know what to do, but something had to change.

Deciding to ignore her problem for now, Grace watched as John expertly shaped the heated metal into what looked like a candlestick. She was captivated by the way his strong arms could be so precise in his work.

“And this is how I make candlesticks, which are perfect for holiday celebrations, I might add. If you’re interested in purchasing one, Emma can help you just inside.”

“Did you make everything for sale in this shop?” A woman wearing a toboggan and bright red lipstick asked the question while waving her hand in John’s direction.

“Ja, I surely did. I enjoy making quality products for you to enjoy.”

A murmur flowed through the crowd, and Grace noticed him straighten to his full height in appreciation. She couldn’t help but smile while watching him interact with his customers.

Grace was good friends with John’s sister Lydia, but hadn’t had the pleasure of spending too much time with him. John seemed friendly enough, but both his size and stare had always intimidated her. John was a tall man, who often went out of his way to avoid her. She looked him over while he carefully laid the candlestick on a fireproof table. His dark brown hair peeked out from underneath his wool hat and she noticed that his brown eyes had specks of gold, much like his sisters. 

Grace hugged the tablet close to her body as a brisk wind blew through the crowd. Ignoring the chill that shivered through her body, Grace wished she’d worn a warmer jacket. Though it was only November, it seemed like winter was coming early to the small mountain community.

“I’ll be here for a while to answer any questions you may have. Denki for coming to my demonstration today. There is another one scheduled in two hours. I’ll be making horseshoes at that time.”

The small group clapped, and Grace couldn’t help but join them. She nudged her tablet underneath her elbow while showing her appreciation.

His eyes caught hers while his patrons stood to their feet to either speak to him or browse the wide selection of products in his shop. At first John looked confused, and then understanding registered across his face. Grace motioned for him to take his time, while she took a seat on one of the wooden benches set up for his audience. She crossed her legs while turning on her tablet to look over the notes she’d taken about John’s needs earlier in the day. Thoughts of Lucas scuttled out of her head as she settled into the homey, mountain environment. Christmas was just around the corner, and she began calculating the gifts she could purchase from John’s shop.

After a few minutes, she heard footsteps coming towards her. Looking up, she realized it was John taking long strides in her direction. Grace stiffened while giving herself an internal pep talk. She hoped John would like what she and her firm had to offer in the marketing department.

At the same time, she wondered why he wanted to do business with them in the first place. Grace knew that the Amish usually relied on word of mouth to build their businesses, not fancy marketing firms.

“Hello John, it’s nice to see you today.” Grace tried to appear professional as she stood to her feet and raised her hand to shake his.

Her determination wavered when she saw the caution in his eyes. She watched his lip twitch as he reluctantly reached out his hand to take hers. Grace sucked in her breath as his large hand enveloped her own. She felt overwhelmed by both his tall stature and brooding eyes, and she couldn’t help but notice the warmth that rushed up her arm at his touch.

“It’s nice to see you too, Grace. I didn’t expect the marketing firm to send you over.”

Niggles of doubt in her ability to be a proficient marketer ate at her stomach. She tried to look confident while staring him in the eye.

“You knew that I worked for Clear Creek Creative Marketing, didn’t you? I thought Lydia would’ve told you, at least.”

Grace had become good friends with John’s sister Lydia when she helped her own sister Amelia convert to the Amish faith a couple of years ago. While Grace spent most of her time working with clients, she liked to spend any free time she had with both Amelia and Lydia.

John scrubbed his hand across the back of his neck. “Ja, she might have mentioned it. I just wasn’t expecting to see you here. I figured someone else would’ve come to help me.”

He didn’t expect a woman marketer to come. Grace knew the Amish believed in traditional gender roles, and she should’ve expected he wouldn’t take kindly for her to be in charge of his account.

“You expected a man to come, didn’t you? I can have someone else assigned to your account if you’d like.” Grace mumbled the words while staring at the floor.

“No, it’s not that.”

“Really?” Hope pressed through her, and she regained a speck of confidence.

“Nee…it’s just that I didn’t expect my marketer to be so…pretty.”

Grace raised her eyebrows while pecking at her tablet, ready to take notes about what John expected her to help with. Slightly annoyed that it looked like she might have to ward off the advances of two men in a single day, Grace shot him what she hoped was a daring stare.

“Is that so?”

“Ja, well…I guess I’ll get used to it. You must know what you’re doing if you were assigned to my account…right?”

She pursed her lips. “Right. I’m fully qualified to help you, John. No matter what your needs are.

His shoulders slumped in relief. “That sounds gut, because I’m going to need all of the help I can get during this holiday season.”

“What do you mean?” Grace motioned to the customers who were currently milling around his demonstration area, admiring his equipment. She watched as Emma checked out a customer through the store window, with two more waiting their turn.

“It looks like you’re doing well here. There were a lot of people at your demonstration, and they’ve turned into paying customers.” She shrugged her shoulders while pushing her long hair over her shoulder. “What gives?”

John gently took Grace by the elbow and led her to the corner of the pavilion. The air felt sharp with tension because the steel used to make John’s products had expanded and contracted repeatedly. She tried to ignore the flutters she felt in her stomach as they pushed away from the crowd. Being alone almost felt too intimate, and for a moment, Grace wondered why she agreed to take on this account.

“I need your help, Grace. While it may seem like business is doing well, it’s way down from previous years. You see, a new business moved into town a couple of months ago. It’s a commercialized store offering iron and steel items. Most of it is cheap junk. None of it is handmade. But the tourists don’t know that, and they haven’t been visiting my store as often.” 

She watched as he fisted his fingers by his side before continuing. “I don’t know what to do. I thought if I hired an Englisch marketing firm, you might have a unique perspective that I haven’t thought of yet.”

Grace cocked her head in thought. “Are you talking about Mountain Metalworks? I noticed a lot of cars in their parking lot when I passed by to meet you today.”

“Ja, that’s the one.” John’s face looked grim as he took Grace by the hand. “Do you think you can help me?”

***

John regretted taking Grace’s hand as soon as she quickly snatched it away. He didn’t know what had just come over him. His new competitor had him all out of sorts.

It didn’t help that Grace was a spitting image of his old aldi who’d left him several years ago. He did his best to avoid Grace whenever she hung out with Lydia, but now, it looked like he had no choice but to learn how to spend time with her.

Karen Glick had left him high and dry when he’d been just about ready to propose. She said he was working too hard, and she didn’t like the long hours he spent in the blacksmith shop. Didn’t she realize he was just trying to prepare for their future?

Grace gave him the side eye while tapping on her tablet. “Yeah, I think I can help you. I’ll do my best, anyway.” She looked curious as her eyes scanned his shop. “I was wondering why you hired a marketing firm in the first place, but it makes better sense now.”

John followed Grace’s gaze as looked at his workplace. He’d worked hard with his daed to build it as soon as he’d been old enough to do so. It was hard to believe that he was now pushing thirty, and he’d been working in this shop for over a decade.

They’d built the shop out of logs hauled in from a tree farm up in Blue Ridge. The men in their church district all came to help, and within only one week, the structure was up and ready for its finishing touches. The community had rallied around him as he started his business, and he’d felt so proud on the early summer day when he first opened for business.

Only one shadow remained in his memory about his Grand Opening…that was when he met Karen. She’d come with her daed to look for a new plow for their fields. Her blonde hair and sparkling blue eyes had captivated him, and he knew then and there that he wanted her to be his. Their relationship had worked well…until it didn’t. John swallowed the lump that grew in his throat while glancing at Grace.

“You have a beautiful shop here. I can see why it’s been popular in our community for so many years now.”

“Well, I wouldn’t call it beautiful. But it is functional.” John frowned as a shiver ran down his spine as a cool breeze passed between them. “I don’t know if I’d call it popular, either. That’s why I called your marketing team.”

Grace hugged her body as her chin took on a quiver. “It is popular, John. And I’m going to do my best to make it even more so.”

John finally registered how uncomfortable Grace looked, and reached for her arm. She was cold, and here he was keeping her out in the chilly weather. Her arm felt small as he led her inside. He tried to ignore the way the scent of her strawberry shampoo tickled his nose.

“I’m sorry for not bringing you inside sooner. Here, let me get the door for you.” John opened the door and propped it open with his toe as Grace stepped inside.

“It’s…it’s alright. I won’t freeze to death.”

“It’s already gut and cold, and it’s only late November. I imagine we have a harsh winter ahead of us.”

“Yeah, I think you’re right.” Grace stopped in her tracks as her eyes swept across the room. “Wow John, you have an amazing store. I can’t believe I’ve never stepped foot in here.”

The room was warm and welcoming, with a soaring ceiling and intricate beam work. Large logs lined the walls, and the floors were made of stone from a local quarry. John couldn’t help but feel a hint of pride as he looked at the metal work products for sale that lined the room. He’d made each item by hand, and he was happy to offer these products to his community.

That is, if they decided to continue shopping with him.

An ache zig-zagged across his temple as he watched a handful of customers shop his products. The holiday season was fast approaching, and his revenue was definitely down.

Another cool blast of air entered the room as the door swung open. John frowned as his sister Lydia walked in, carrying a large box on her hip. Her swollen belly peeked out from beneath her burgundy cape dress. What was she doing carrying such a heavy load while expecting?

In an instant, John was at her side and plucked the box for her arms.

“What do you think you’re doing little schweschder? You can hurt the bobbeli by carrying such things, ain’t so? And where’s Matthew?”

Lydia wrinkled her nose at her brother. “That box is as light as a feather, as I’m sure you can now tell. It only contains some holly branches for decorating. Matthew is with our customers at the general store, as he should be. A pregnant woman can still be helpful.”

Grace smiled as she watched the siblings argue. “It’s nice that you two have each other. I’m glad I have Amelia to talk to from time to time, but it’s just not the same since she became Amish. I can’t pick up the phone and call her anytime I want. We lost my brother Jake about five years ago now. Sometimes I feel very alone.”

John felt his heart tug as her voice grew softer. He never knew what it felt like to be alone since he grew up with seven siblings. Most of them still lived in Clear Creek, and Lydia lived right next door with her husband, Matthew Lapp. Their parents, Leroy and Elma Yoder, retired to Pinecraft, Florida last year. While it still felt strange without them being around all of the time, they visited Clear Creek several times a year. John didn’t mind having a Florida retreat to visit, either. Especially when the weather turned cold in North Georgia.

“Ach Grace, you’re not alone.” Lydia grasped her hands as concern laced her eyes. “You can visit me whenever your heart desires.”

“That’s right. And Grace will be helping me market the blacksmith shop this holiday season, too. You two should have plenty of time to visit if Grace comes by to meet with me often.”

Lydia raised an eyebrow. “You’ve hired Grace’s marketing firm to help you, John? I know you’ve struggled since Mountain Metalworks opened for business, but has it come to this?”

Grace shifted uncomfortably as the siblings stood toe to toe.

“Ja, I did. I didn’t know what else to do, Lydia. I know our way is normally word of mouth and community involvement, but desperate times call for desperate measures.” John looked at Grace sheepishly. “I hope you take no offense, Grace.”

She held up her hand in understanding. “No offense taken. While we are a marketing company and I plan to use social media to help your business grow, I also love to find unique ways to promote my accounts. Now then, can you tell me what you hope to accomplish with your marketing blitz?”

John licked his lips, and for the first time he doubted his decision to hire Clear Creek Creative Marketing. Perhaps he was getting in over his head.

“Well, I’d simply like to draw more customers into my shop, and perhaps let them know about the gut quality products I make and sell.”

Grace typed a few notes into her tablet. “I can definitely help you with that. If you don’t mind, I’d like to take a few pictures of your store and demonstration area before I leave. I also plan to visit your competitor soon, to see what they’re bringing to the table.”

John shrugged his shoulders after sharing a glance with Lydia. “Ja, I guess that sounds alright. Just try not to get any people in your photographs, please.”

“I’ll be very careful not to. If it’s okay with you, I’ll do that now. I’ll be back in just a few minutes.”

John noticed the bright flecks in her blue eyes as she walked away. Trying not to frown, his eyes followed her as she snapped a few photos of a display of cooking utensils he’d made over the last month or two. It was going to be difficult to work with a woman who resembled his old aldi so closely.

“She looks like Karen, ja?” John leaned close to his sister to speak as Grace walked towards the next display.

Lydia raised her eyebrows. “She favors her a little, maybe. But John, be careful to not compare Grace to Karen. It’s not fair to her, and they are two completely different people. Besides, why are you still thinking about Karen, anyway? It’s been years since you’ve been together.”

His thoughts grew muddled as he continued to watch Grace. “I guess because I thought we were going to spend the rest of our lives together and then it didn’t work out.”

Lydia gave his arm a squeeze. “Life doesn’t always work out the way we want it to, bruder. And it normally works out for the best. Remember that while working with Grace, ja? You don’t want to burden your relationship with a memory from the past.” Her lips pressed into a straight line. “And while I understand why you hired Grace’s firm, remember, just be yourself. It doesn’t matter what your competitor does. The right customers are sure to find you.”

John frowned. He didn’t know if he could do what Lydia suggested. Surely, she didn’t understand how desperate his situation was. He didn’t think that he could bring in customers without Englisch marketing help, which was why Grace was here in the first place. He stewed silently while thinking it over.

“Well then, do you mind if I spruce up your shop with this holly? I should be out of your hair in a jiffy.”

Lydia snapped him back to reality. “Sure, have at it. Do you need any help?”

“Nee, I plan to hang it around the checkout counter for now. When it comes time to use a ladder to decorate, I’ll be sure to ask for help. I wouldn’t want to take a tumble while being pregnant.”

John nodded his head as his eyes continued to track Grace. “Okay, that sounds gut to me.”

She elbowed his side while watching his eyes. “You’re staring a hole right through Grace, ja?”

He gave his little sister a teasing glare. “Mind your own business, Lydia.”

Her laughter tinkled through the store as she walked towards the checkout counter. “I’ll try, bruder. I’ll try.”

After taking pictures of his demonstration area outside for a few minutes, Grace walked back to him, breathless. Her cheeks looked rosy and full while she held up a candlestick in admiration.

“I’ve really enjoyed checking out your shop, John. How do you do such precision work? This candlestick, for instance. It’s beautiful. I plan to buy it and put it on the mantle in my apartment.”

His chest felt tight as he watched her examine his handiwork. She spun the candlestick with her fingers, examining it from all angles.

“There’s no need for you to buy it, Grace. I’d like to give it to you. It’s the least I can do for you. You’re going to help me a gut bit this holiday season.”

Her eyes grew wide. “Oh no, John. I couldn’t accept this. You’re paying my firm for my work and I…”

Her voice trailed off as he left her side and walked towards Emma.

“Emma, could you hand me a bag and a couple of pieces of wrapping paper?”

Emma’s dark brown eyes questioned him as she reached underneath the counter and did his bidding. “Sure thing, John. Are you sure this isn’t something I can take care of?”

“Nee.” After his simple reply, he walked back to Grace’s side and packaged the candlestick for her right then and there.

Grace’s hand rose to her chest in appreciation as her eyes crinkled into a warm smile. “John…thank you. I’ll come up with a marketing plan after I take a look at Mountain Metalworks, and share it with you soon. Does that sound alright?”

“Ja, that suits me just fine.” Uncertainty twisted his insides as he watched her walk out the door and back to the parking lot. He hoped his plan to hire Grace’s firm worked, and he would live to tell the tale. He didn’t know if that could happen if she kept looking at him like that.

Click here to pre-order An Appalachian Engagement.