Tag: Amish romance

Free Chapter of The Amish Mother’s Secret

NicoleLeave a comment

Hey friends, and welcome!

I’ve been writing, editing, and publishing several things lately. It’s been a busy (but also fun) season! I’ve got a free chapter to share with you in just a minute, but first, I’d love to tell you some exciting news.

On Saturday, my books surpassed 1,000,000 KU page reads. Like, is this even real? If you’ve ever read any of my books, I’d like to thank you so much. This is seriously a dream come true! I’ve been walking on a cloud.

As many of you know, I really enjoy writing Amish fiction, and the first book in my Hope in Hickory Hills series releases in June. It’s now available to pre-order.

It takes place in the southern Appalachians, and is a second chance romance that includes a secret baby! Faith is woven throughout the book, and I hope after reading it you feel uplifted and encouraged.

Click Here to Pre-Order The Amish Mother’s Secret

You can read the first chapter below. I hope you enjoy it!

Chapter One

“Mamm, I’m getting hungry. Are we gonna be picked up soon?”

“Ja. Emily will be coming for us soon, Lizzie. Hold your horses, and try your best to be patient.”

“But I’m hungry now.”

Anna Miller sighed as she began to rummage through her satchel that could use a gut mending, looking for a snack.

“Will cheese crackers hold you over until our next meal?”

“They’ll do just fine.”

Elizabeth took the bag of crackers from her mother’s outstretched hand, and offered her a toothless grin. At five-years-old, the girl was fun, witty, and smart, and Anna didn’t know what she’d ever done to deserve such a delightful daughter.

Especially after she’d run from Hickory Hills six years ago, without telling a soul where she was going or why she’d left.

Anna’s eyes brushed over the busy Appalachian town as she leaned against the worn bench seat that lined the sidewalk in front of the bus station. Both Amish and Englisch residents bustled about, paying no mind to Anna nor her daughter, who was now happily munching on a handful of crackers. Anna had made them in their tiny apartment in Lancaster County just before they’d been forced to leave. She closed her eyes, trying to wish the memory away.

And now with her meager savings tucked carefully into her bag, both she and Lizzie had returned to the town where Anna had been raised. She rubbed her hands against both of her temples absentmindedly, since they were beginning to throb. When Anna had left, she’d been in the early stages of pregnancy. But now the tiny life growing inside of her was a healthy little girl, ready to take on the world and everything it threw at her.

One day, Lizzie would learn that life wasn’t always sunshine and rainbows. But for now, Anna would continue to give her the best life an Amish, unmarried mother could.

She smiled wryly. It wasn’t much, but Anna was determined to try. Lizzie seemed to always enjoy their time together, even though whatever they did usually involved little money. Anna’s relationship with her daughter was important, and she wanted to provide Lizzie with many gut memories to look back on, just like she had with her own mother. Anna had always held the relationship with her own mamm dear to her heart, even though she’d left town as soon as she’d learned a bobbeli was on the way.

It was best for everyone…except for Anna. 

Anna had decided that shielding both her mother and boyfriend’s family from the scandal of an unexpected pregnancy was the best choice to make. It was better for her to suffer the consequences of her actions alone, instead of dragging the rest of her loved ones along, too. And that included keeping the boyfriend that she’d hoped to marry one day in the dark, as well.

But after Anna was settled in Lancaster, her mamm had died. A little pain zipped through her heart at the thought. Lizzie would never get to meet her grandmother. Although this was Anna’s choice, it still felt grievous.

Lizzie had been a welcome ray of hope to Anna’s life, much to her surprise. As an only child, she didn’t have experience with kinner. All of that changed as soon as Elizabeth entered the picture and Anna learned what it meant to become a mamm.

As Lizzie finished off the rest of her snack, Anna scanned the road, hoping that her friend Emily Byler would be coming soon. Once her landlord in Lancaster told her that she’d have to move since the apartment she lived in needed extensive renovations and she was laid off from the Amish market she’d been working at in the self-same week, Anna took it as a sign to move on. Since she had no one else to turn to, she’d reluctantly asked Emily if she was in need of any help at her bed and breakfast, The Magnolia Inn, by letter. 

It turned out that yes, Emily did need assistance during the busy summer season since one of her employees, Rebekah Yoder, was heading to Lancaster for a few months to care for her ailing grossmammi who’d kumm down with a serious case of shingles. Anna found it ironic that the two women had literally switched places location wise, except Rebekah had stability in her life, while Anna did not. But as soon as her friend offered her room and board as part of her payment, Anna had accepted while sighing with relief. 

Though she still didn’t have a long-term plan, at least she and Lizzie were not homeless. Spending the summer at an inn tucked deep inside the Appalachian mountainssounded like as gut of a plan as any. There was only one person in Hickory Hills that knew about Anna’s unplanned pregnancy, and she was unlikely to run into her again since they lived in two different worlds. Her secret seemed safe enough, and Anna hoped Lizzie would make oodles of good memories as they lived in her childhood town over the summer.

Anna hoped she might make a gut memory or two, too. That is, if she could forget about the bad ones.

And would they stay after that? Only time would tell.

Anna’s heart tapped a little faster as she saw a familiar buggy pull to the curb. Could this be Emily? Anna didn’t have to wonder for long. A petite woman with curly blonde hair springing from her kapp waved her closer while offering what looked to be a genuine smile. 

“Emily’s kumm for us, Lizzie. Now then, gather your things and let’s be on our way.

“Goody! I was gettin’ tired of sitting here for so long.”

Anna smiled wryly while shaking her head. It was just like Lizzie to be a little dramatic. They’d been sitting outside of the bus station for fifteen minutes, tops, and she personally thought enjoying the cool mountain breeze for a spell felt nice.

Worry swirled in Anna’s stomach as they stepped closer to the open air buggy. She hoped they could pick up right where they’d left off, but how could they after the way Anna had left in the night so long ago?

“Well, if it isn’t Anna Miller! It is so gut to see you again! And it looks like you brought someone else that I’ve been dying to meet.” Emily’s blue eyes crinkled into a smile as she offered her hand to Lizzie and helped pull her into the buggy. “What’s your name, little one?”

Lizzie straightened to her full height once both of her feet were firmly planted on the buggy’s floor. “I’m Elizabeth Miller, but everyone calls me Lizzie. I like cats, kittens, and I love to draw.”

Emily eyed her seriously. “Is that so? Well then, you’re in luck. My cat, Primrose, just had a litter of kittens two weeks ago. They are residents of The Magnolia Inn too, and their favorite place to sleep is in a nook right next to your room. Would you be willing to help me take care of them, Lizzie?”

Lizzie’s head bobbed up and down at a dizzying pace. “You bet I would!”

Emily laughed, as she gave the girl’s arm a gentle squeeze. “I’m very grateful your mamm has brought you my way, then.”

Anna caught Emily’s eye over Lizzie’s head. Relief seeped from her lungs as she realized that her dear friend hadn’t changed one bit. She always had a way of making others feel at ease, and Anna felt like maybe, the two would remain gut friends.

“How are you doing, Em?”

“As right as rain. Business at my bed and breakfast has been wunderbar this season, and I’m very glad you have arrived. I desperately need reinforcements.”

Anna smiled as Emily pulled her buggy onto the wide shoulder of the road, created especially for the Amish to use as they rode through town. Of course her friend would act as if she was the one doing her a favor, when actually, it was the other way around.

“I’m looking forward to helping you out at your inn this summer. I think spending time outdoors will be gut for my daughter, too.”

Anna took in a deep breath of fresh mountain air as the buggy left the center of Hickory Hills behind and began to move towards the Magnolia’s location, which was just a couple of miles outside of town. She remembered how she spent her days as a child wading in mountain streams, or searching for wildlife in the rugged, Appalachian landscape. Though Anna didn’t want to venture deep into the forest because painful memories of her time spent there as a young adult threatened to consume her, she hoped Lizzie might be able to create some wunderbar memories over the next few months.

So far, most of Lizzie’s memories involved being cooped up in their small apartment on the outskirts of Lancaster. Whenever Anna wasn’t working, she’d tried to take her child to a local park, but unfortunately, those occurrences were few and far between.

Emily’s mouth tipped into a grin. “There will be plenty of opportunities for Lizzie to explore the outdoors at the Magnolia. I can’t wait to show you the grounds, and all the inn has to offer.”

“Me, too.” Hope welled up inside of Anna’s heart as the buggy crested a hill, and the bed and breakfast came into view. Emily had purchased it from the previous owners when they’d decided to retire around two years ago. Though it used to be thoroughly Englisch, Emily had excitedly penned in one of her recent letters to Anna that she’d put an Amish touch on it. The New Order Amish community of Hickory Hills permitted electricity in their businesses and homes, but still required its members to travel by horse and buggy. So while Em had kept the electricity line intact, she’d made the main areas of the inn look perfectly plain, which drew in tourists from all over the southeastern United States.

“This is it, ja?”

Emily’s eyes sparkled. “Yep, this is the place. You remember when we used to play volleyball just down the way when we were teenagers, ain’t so?”

Anna nodded while chewing on her lip. Yes, she remembered…how could she forget? She met Caleb while playing volleyball shortly after her daed had died from cancer. Fortunately, while this particular memory followed her to this side of Hickory Hills, Caleb’s haus and land sat firmly across town and through a couple of mountain passes. This was one of the reasons Anna had accepted Emily’s proposal readily. Plus, he lived in an entirely different church district, which was her old district, too. There was little chance she’d run into Caleb Stoltzfus here since they were no longer youngies playing volleyball. He was certainly working hard at the cattle farm whenever he could.

Anna clutched the side of the buggy seat as Lizzie squealed with glee.

“This is where we are going to live? I can hardly believe it!”

Anna’s eyes grew wide as she took in the scenery as the horse’s hooves tapped down the narrow lane that led to the inn. White and lavender crape myrtles draped over the edges of the road, creating a cozy ambiance. Large white and pink hydrangeas full of large blooms surrounded the last of the small trees, and then followed the lane to the large, white inn framed by rolling hills on three sides. Magnolia trees which looked both full and wild dotted the property.

It was perfect. Absolutely perfect.

Anna let out a gasp as the buggy lurched to a stop next to a welcoming stable at the right side of the bread and breakfast. She could hardly believe this was to be her home for the next few months, either.

If only she could stay forever.

“Hey Em, I’ve got Daisy. You and your guests can make your way to the inn if you’d like.”

Anna sat frozen as she heard a familiar, masculine voice. Slowly, she cut her eyes in the direction of the man who’d just emerged from the stable. Her nerves felt jangly as she recognized his deep brown eyes that matched the hair peeking out from his straw cap. Her gaze fell to his nose, and yes, it was just a little crooked from the farming accident he’d endured years ago. His steps were sure as he walked towards the horse, but Anna felt like curling into a ball, and hiding underneath one of the boulders on the Appalachian hillside as he moved closer.

What was Caleb Stoltzfus doing here?

***

Caleb avoided eye contact with Emily’s guests as he walked towards the horse and buggy. It had been a long day, and all he wanted was to retreat to the quarters that had been assigned to him since he’d become the official groundskeeper at The Magnolia Inn.

First, one of the newest arrivals to the inn had decided to educate him on all of the ways he could improve the property’s landscaping. Charles Walker had followed him around for hours that morning, and by lunchtime, he had a pounding headache. Caleb had tried his best to be cordial to the elderly gentleman, but when he handed him an itemized list of improvements he should consider, it had been the last straw. Or almost the last straw, rather. As Emily’s employee, he knew he must be accommodating to the guests at all costs. So Caleb had been, though he wished he could’ve given the visitor a piece of his mind.

Then, a pipe inside the Magnolia had broken, and caused a huge mess in the kitchen almost as soon as Emily had left to pick up her new guests from the Hickory Hills Bus Station. Though Caleb had temporarily repaired it as quickly as he could, there were still a few things he needed to finish up to complete the job. Which was why he’d run to the stable to fetch a few tools. He’d hoped to have fixed the problem before Em arrived back, but unfortunately, he was out of luck.

Caleb didn’t have much luck with anything these days.

Ever since he’d called his daed out for tax evasion one year ago and told him that he could keep the spread of farming land that was to be deeded to him one day, Caleb felt like he didn’t have anything going for him anymore. But his father’s underhanded dealings were not something Caleb wanted anything to do with. Even if it meant giving up the swath of land he’d been told was his ever since he was a young kind, along with his half-built haus.

So when Caleb saw the advertisement Emily had run in the paper for a groundskeeper at her inn last year, he’d jumped at the chance. Ja, groundskeeping wasn’t farming, but it kept him working in the great outdoors. Not to mention that Em was a great boss who gave him a lot of leeway with his schedule. And for that, he was thankful.

Being outdoors helped Caleb to clear his head, and keep his mind off of his family’s business. Which was all he thought about, besides Anna Miller. Though Anna had left him six years ago, he still thought about her nearly day and night. Caleb shook his head, feeling very foolish, indeed. What kind of man still pined after his girlfriendthough she’d disappeared into the mountain mist without even leaving a letter as to why?

Caleb sat down his tool bag to clutch Daisy’s reins after Emily tossed them his way. It looked like the kitchen repair would have to wait until the mare was returned to her stall. But really, what were a few more minutes?

“I can hardly wait to see my room! Emily, could you please take me there soon?”

Caleb’s ears perked as he heard the voice of a young child pierce the air from the buggy’s seat. A smile tilted his lips. He most definitely preferred spending time around children rather than grumpy guests, like Mr. Walker.

“Ja dear one, we’ll do that soon. I’ll help Anna grab your bags, and then we’ll be on our way.

Caleb’s smile turned upside down as soon as he heard the word Anna. The name had put a sour taste in his mouth ever since his girlfriend had left. He’d planned to propose marriage to her, and thought they’d have a cozy mountain wedding full of happy friends and family.

Perhaps it was best that she’d left. Since he’d become the family outcast, he had nothing to offer a woman now. Maybe Anna had sensed this would someday come to pass, and had left before he’d been given the chance to make a fool of himself by asking for her hand.

She surely would’ve turned him down anyway.

Curiosity nudged him. The Anna Emily was talking to couldn’t be his Anna. Could it? He squeezed his gaze past the horse and into the buggy.

Heat rose from his stomach and settled into his chest. Caleb’s jaw clenched as his eyes locked with the woman whose face he’d memorized. The curve of her mouth and the tilt of the cheeks remained the same. His eyes moved towards her hair, noticing the way the sun played off its chestnut tint, making it look almost golden. He’d run his fingers through her hair just once, when they’d gotten caught in a tender moment and had taken their relationship too far. His breath caught at the memory.

There was no need to think about that now. He’d already made peace with Gott about the incident, which was all that mattered.

“It’s just not my day, is it?” Caleb muttered.

“What was that, Caleb?” Emily looked at him curiously as she hopped down from the buggy.

“Nothing…nothing.” Caleb stood frozen as he tried to decide what to do next. He didn’t anticipate coming face to face with his old girl today, for sure and for certain.

Realization bloomed inside of him as his gaze darted between Anna and the child snuggled by her side.

This must be Anna’s child. He did a quick calculation in his head while approximating the young girl’s age. Anna didn’t waste any time finding someone else after she’d left him.

Just more proof that he was gut for nothing.

“Caleb, you remember Anna, right? She’ll be working for me over the summer. And oh, meet Lizzie. Anna is her mamm.”

Anna elbowed Emily in the ribs after she’d descended from the buggy herself. “Of course Caleb remembers me…vell, I hope he does at least. And why didn’t you tell me he would be here?” She then turned towards Caleb, her knuckles burning white as she clenched her worn bag. “Why in the world are you at The Magnolia Inn, anyhow? I thought you’d be spending all of your time at the family farm.”

Her words sounded cool, but they cut through him like a knife. Now twenty-five-years old just like himself, Caleb could tell by looking in her eyes that something was deeply bothering her. During their rumspringa Caleb had learned how to read Anna like a book, and he knew that deep down, she was suffering just like he was.

“I’m helping Em out for the summer, too.” His eyes cut towards Emily. He hoped she wouldn’t mention that his employment was actually full time, and that he’d decided to walk away from the farm. He was embarrassed by what his family had come to, and didn’t want her to know about his decision. Plus, after Anna had left him like she did, what right did she have to know the intimate details of his life?

In his opinion, she had none.

Thankfully, Emily’s lips remained sealed as Anna helped her child to the ground. He hoped they would stay that way.

“Ach, I honestly don’t know what to say then…I’m afraid I’ve gotten my dochder and I into a pickle. Staying at The Magnolia might not be the best idea for us, after all. Kumm, Lizzie. Let’s get to our room and ready ourselves for dinner. Then, I have a lot of thinking to do.”

Caleb’s shoulders slumped as he watched Anna and Lizzie head towards the inn, with Emily close on their heels. The kitchen repairs forgotten, he slowly led Daisy into her stall. He didn’t know if he could handle many more days like today, especially if they ended with a horrid blast from the past like this one.

Thanks for reading! If you’d like to pre-order The Amish Mother’s Secret, click here.

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.

The Shopkeeper’s Match Sample

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If you’d like to purchase The Shopkeeper’s Match, you can find it on Amazon here.

Chapter One

Lydia Yoder sighed while straightening a rack of cape dresses in the general store she ran with her parent’s help. She felt like her nerves might run away with her as she ran a finger along the collar of a dress she recently finished. It was a warm tone of orange, which reminded her of fall. Lydia glanced out the window. Peeks of color tinged the leaves on the trees which indicated the season had definitely arrived. Her cheeks felt rosy like the red leaves she spied as her wide chocolate eyes tried to imagine the day away.

“So, it looks like we’re just about ready then.”

Lydia’s lips pursed when she heard her mother’s voice to her side. As the youngest of eight children, she was the only child still living at home. Her mamm and daed were just about ready to leave the Yoder General Store in her care for a month or two. Elma Yoder’s aging parents were in need of a hand in Lancaster County. Which meant Lydia would be in charge of the store. Alone.

As scared as she was, this finally was her chance to prove that she was a gut shopkeeper, and could manage the store all by herself. Lydia tried to remind herself of this as her nerves jumped from here to there.

Lydia forced her brown eyes to smile as she met her mother’s gaze. “Ja, I thought you’d be ready to go soon. Do you have everything you need?”

Her mother eyed her face. A frown tugged the older woman’s lips. “Lydia, are you alright? I know tendin’ to the store might be hard on you. Especially after what happened when we left you last year to visit Pinecraft.”

Lydia bit back the groan attempting to escape her lips. Last fall, her parents had left her in charge of the general store while they vacationed in Pinecraft, Florida. Lydia was an excellent shopkeeper, but had grown distracted while helping her friend Amelia convert to the Amish faith. She had forgotten to place a large wholesale order, and the store was grossly understocked during one of the busiest times of the year. She was afraid that she might never live it down.

“I’m fine. I’ve got this under control, you know. I’m twenty-five-years old now. I know this store like the back of my hand.” Her voice was soft while she rearranged a rack of suspenders. Wiping sweaty palms across her apron, Lydia thought about the store and the legacy she hoped to continue there.

The Yoder General Store had been in the family for generations. It sat in the heart of southern Appalachia in the shadow of Blackberry Mountain, where several rivers met and tourists flocked to apple orchards during the fall. The small town of Clear Creek, Georgia was both picturesque and quaint. Lydia loved living here, and she loved running this store. More than anything, she wanted to prove that she had what it took to be the full owner. Her parents had hinted that they wanted to retire to Pinecraft soon, but they were uncertain if Lydia could handle running the store by herself.

“Well, I still worry about you being here all alone.”

“I’m not alone. John is here to help.”

Lydia’s brother John lived just next door. He helped out at the store from time to time, but his main source of income was the blacksmith shop he ran beside his home. Not only was a blacksmith shop functional in an Amish community, it was also a tourist attraction in itself. John gave demonstrations once or twice a day, and the tourists loved it. Having her brother so close by was a comfort to Lydia, too.

Elma’s feet shuffled while she looked at the floor. “I think you might need more help than John, Lydia. As you know, he’s awfully busy in his blacksmith shop. After asking around, I found the perfect person to help in the store while we’re away.”

Lydia sucked in her breath, while pushing a tendril of brown hair behind her ear. “Mamm, I’m sorry about last year. Forgetting to place an order with the Tanner family was an honest mistake. I was just so caught up in helping Amelia learn our ways that it completely slipped my mind…”

Her voice trailed off while looking away. Lydia wished she had the confidence to properly voice her opinion, but she didn’t know if she would ever reach this elusive goal. As the youngest child, she always had others waiting and willing to take care of her. Her opinion had always been muffled by everyone else’s. Even at age twenty five. She wished she could convince her mother that she was a strong young woman with a head for business.

“I know it was an honest mistake, dear.” Elma patted Lydia’s shoulder. “ But forgetting to place that order caused us to lose a lot of revenue. Running this general store takes a lot of attention to detail. It’s a huge store. One can’t be distracted while doing it.”

Lydia smoothed a wrinkle from her apricot cape dress while biting her inner lip. She wanted to hide under the counter. After all of these years, she’d made one mistake. That was enough for her parents to no longer believe she was capable of tending to shop alone. Why, she’d even learned how to walk on this very floor. She knew she had what it took to fully run this place. But would her parents ever give her the chance?

“Okay, Mamm. Okay.” Lydia ignored the niggles of annoyance rushing down her spine. “I understand. Now who did you ask to help me?”

“Do you remember Matthew Lapp? He’s Kate Tanner’s nephew. He ran a general store in Copperhill, Tennessee for quite some time. I thought he’d be the perfect man to help you.”

Lydia’s eyes grew wide. Kate Tanner’s nephew? He was sure to have heard of her blunder last year. Embarrassment crept through her.

“Mamm…don’t you think someone else might be better for the job?”

“No, dear. Copperhill isn’t too far from Clear Creek, so Matthew didn’t have to travel far. He’ll be staying at John’s while we’re gone. I think it will be the perfect arrangement.

Perfect arrangement? More like a perfect disaster. Lydia didn’t know if she could bear the humiliation. She rubbed her head as a niggling pain ran across her forehead.

“How long do you think you’ll be gone?”

“Hopefully no more than a month or two. Your granddaed took a nasty fall, and your grandmother needs help. We aim to give it to them.” Elma gave her daughter a reassuring smile. “But with Matthew here, you should be just fine. Even with the fall Open House coming up.”

The North Georgia heat had finally broken, and Clear Creek was definitely experiencing the beginning of autumn. The Fall Open House was the biggest shopping day of the year for the Yoder General Store. Tourists usually flocked to the shop after visiting the nearby apple orchards. They loved the warm and homey establishment, framed by rolling hills and a babbling creek.

Elma’s smile didn’t cheer Lydia’s mood even one bit. She felt like her chance to prove once and for all that she could run this store was slowly slipping away.

“I…I guess it’ll work out okay if you insist.”

“Oh Lydia, don’t look so downtrodden. Having Matthew here is for the best. Honestly, you’ll have more time to work on your sewing book with him here. Doesn’t that sound nice?”

Lydia was a master seamstress, and women came from miles around to buy her cape dresses. Over the past couple of months, she’d been putting together a simple sewing instruction book for women to purchase when they visited the store. She felt like it was something else she could contribute to the shop, while being an asset to the community.

 Lydia flashed both hot and cold. “I don’t know, Mamm. I was doing a fine job of writing the book and running the general store without Matthew here.”

Elma pursed her lips. “Our busy season hasn’t started yet, Lydia. Your father and I’ve decided this is for the best. Matthew should be arriving shortly. Leroy left right after breakfast to pick him up at the train station.”

Clear Creek’s passenger train ran from Tennessee into Georgia. Not only did tourists enjoy taking rides, it served as a great way for the Amish community to travel. Lydia had enjoyed taking train rides with her friend Amelia before she got married to her old beau, Abram.

Curiosity nudged her. She wondered what Matthew was like, and she wanted to take a peek at him as soon as he arrived. “It looks like everything is straightened here. I think I’ll make sure the porch is nice and clean before the store opens.”

Elma raised an eyebrow. “Very well, dear.”

Lydia slid out of the door, and grabbed the broom propped up against the log building. While sweeping the porch, her eyes strained towards the road. Sure enough, within a few minutes her father pulled into the drive with a passenger seated next to him. Suddenly timid, Lydia concentrated on the wooden boards lining the wide, rocking chair porch. She’d never been gut at talking to men. She’d rather crawl into a hole than converse with men her age. Her shyness always got the best of her, and she never knew quite what to say.

Once the buggy stopped, Lydia couldn’t help but look again. Her eyes fluttered open as she took him in. A man of average build hopped out of the passenger seat. His arms were tanned, and he looked strong. Brown hair poked out from underneath his straw hat, and his dark eyes bore through hers as he waited for Leroy to exit the buggy.

The screen door creaked open and then slammed shut as Elma scurried outside. “Leroy! Matthew! I’m so glad you two are here! We have a lot of explainin’ to do before we head towards Lancaster. Let’s get to it before the time grows even later.”

A sigh blew through Lydia’s lips as her mother spoke. While Lydia didn’t particularly want to speak to Matthew, did her mamm not even trust Lydia to explain the running of the general store alone? Apparently not. She tried her best to push down the frustration building inside of her.

Lydia forced a tight-lipped smile as her mother put her arm around her waist. While she’d always loved the fall season at the Yoder General Store, it didn’t look too promising this year.

***

Matthew Lapp stretched as he stepped down from Leroy’s buggy. He felt weary from his morning of travel, and nerves ate at his stomach since didn’t know what to expect while working here. Trying to ignore his doubts, Matthew looked at the Yoder General Store in curiosity. The log building was stained a dark brown color, which matched the home behind it. Black eyed susans and coneflowers surrounded the porch, which made it feel cozy and welcoming. The porch itself was filled with wind chimes and whirly-gigs, which blew in the wind.

He felt his chest tighten. This looked just like the store he managed in Tennessee, but even more charming. It was large, and he understood why Lydia Yoder needed help while her parents were away.

But one question loomed in his mind. Why had he been asked to do this after the heap of trouble he got into in Tennessee?

Matthew had run the Copperhill General Store for close to a decade when he’d been asked to step down by the owner. The ledger didn’t balance for two months in a row, and he was accused of stealing from the business. Matthew would never do such a thing, and he’d been shocked that it was even suggested. After leaving management, he decided to take up carpentry, which was a worthwhile skill for an Amish man to have.

But now, his Aenti Kate had asked him to help run the Yoder General Store. She was friends with the Yoders, and he’d listened patiently as she explained their predicament. He felt like he owed it to her, since she helped him back on his feet after he was stripped of his shopkeeper position. But how could she trust him to do this after what had happened in Copperhill? 

While he didn’t think so, Kate thought he was the one for the job. Matthew admitted that he had felt compassion towards Lydia when Kate described how she’d struggled to run the store by herself last fall. He figured he could help her out for a month or two if she really needed it. After all, Matthew was a bachelor. He didn’t have any real responsibilities. He sold his carpentry products online, and could make them anywhere if he found the time.

Matthew heard the gravel underneath his boots crunch as he neared the store. Two women stood on the porch, one older and one younger. The young woman had her arms crossed, and her eyes didn’t look very friendly. She was slender, and her hair was a warm tone of brown accented with flecks of gold. He smiled warily as he approached. Could this be Lydia?

“Well, now. This is my family. Please meet my wife, Elma, and my daughter, Lydia. We are very glad you’re here, Matthew.”

Matthew forced a smile while Leroy spoke.

“I’m happy to help.”

He watched as Lydia’s eyes rolled. Matthew decided to ignore her rudeness, and turned to face Elma instead.

“Come in, come in.” Elma motioned for him to follow her. “We have so much to show you before we leave.”

Matthew followed Elma inside, curiously looking the store over. It was large…larger than he’d expected. The log walls were warm and homey, and there were several different rooms full of items for sale. To the right was a food counter, and his stomach gurgled once he smelled apple cinnamon floating through the room. He was surprised by what he was seeing.

What amazed him the most were the rows and rows of dresses lining an entire room to his left. They were arranged by color, and it looked like a fabric rainbow circled the room. Quilts were hung on the wall overhead, and handmade headcoverings lined the shelves.

“Wow…that’s a lot of dresses. I bet many women contribute to your supply.”

“No. Just me. I make all of the dresses.”

Matthew turned towards Lydia. She looked flustered while staring at the floor. Until now, she’d been as quiet as a mouse. A pulse of surprise shot through him.

“You made all of these?”

“Yes.” She shrugged while looking towards the dresses. “I like to sew, I guess you could say.”

“I think that’s an understatement.”

“Welcome to our store, Matthew. Let me give you the grand tour. Our shop used to be much smaller, but we built a new wing last summer, especially for Lydia. We didn’t have enough space to contain all the dresses she was makin’ before.”

Elma Yoder began on one side of the store, and didn’t stop talking for thirty minutes straight. Matthew’s mind spun as he tried his best to take in all of the information. There was so much to remember, and it had been nearly a year since he’d managed the Copperhill General Store.

“And now, we’ve come to the cash register.”

Matthew’s jaw tightened and he fisted his fingers. He’d always been a good money manager until the strange ledger imbalances that plagued him at the end of his employment. He felt triggered as Elma slipped behind the counter.

“I’ve got it, Mamm.”

He eyed Lydia, who had quietly been following the group around the store.

“I’ve got it. I can explain the cash register to Matthew. You and Daed need to get ready to go. The driver will be arriving soon, ja?”

“Yes, the driver will be arriving soon.” Elma’s shoulders slumped. “Are you sure you’ve got this under control?”

“Absolutely sure.” Matthew watched as Lydia’s brown eyes looked laser focused. Perhaps she wasn’t as timid as he’d originally thought.

“Alright, then.” Elma patted her daughter’s shoulder. “I guess we’re off. Do you have any questions, Matthew? You will be staying with my son, John. He’s a bachelor, and has plenty of room. He lives right next door.”

“No…I don’t think I have any questions. If I do, I’m sure Lydia can answer them.”

He watched as the young woman’s shoulders relaxed in relief. But quickly, she straightened to her full medium-height. He guessed she was around 5’5”.

“That’s right. I can answer them. I know how to run this store.”

Uncertainty laced Elma’s eyes. “Alright, Lydia. Please let me know if you have any problems whatsoever. A phone shanty is right beside your granddaed’s home and you have the number.

“I’ll be sure to call if I need you.”

“Okay. I’ll be checking in periodically, too.” Elma pecked Lydia’s cheek before motioning towards Leroy. “Come, let’s get our suitcases and wait for the driver. He should be here within fifteen minutes.

Lydia’s father nodded as he eyed his daughter. “I’ll miss you, Lydia. I hope you have a gut time managing the store with Matthew.”

Leroy strode over to Lydia and enveloped her in a bear hug before leaving the store with his wife. Matthew felt uncomfortable once the two of them were left alone.

After a beat of silence, Lydia rested her hands on the counter. He could tell they were shaking.

“So…I guess you need to know how to work the cash register. Come behind the counter with me, if you don’t mind.”

Matthew followed Lydia as he slid behind the counter. The cash register sat on a slab of granite dotted in warm brown hues. It matched the rustic wooden cabinet perfectly.

“This is our cash register. It’s really easy to operate. Let me show you.”

“No…there’s no need. This is exactly like the cash register I used at the Copperhill General Store.” Annoyed, he looked at the thing with disgust. He’d always been so good at balancing the books when he managed the shop, and he didn’t know how he’d gone wrong.

Lydia raised an eyebrow. “Okay, then. I guess there’s no need in showing you.” She sighed. “To be honest, there’s no need in showing you any of this. I was raised in this store, and I can definitely handle it on my own.”

He felt her body heat rise as she turned towards him. He took a step back, and then slowly walked away from the cash register. 

“Are you sure about that? This is an awfully big shop for someone to manage by themselves.” He remembered the mishap his Aenti Kate had told him about when Lydia had been left here alone. She’d forgotten to place a large wholesale order of handcrafted items from her just as fall had rolled around last year. The Yoder General Store was woefully undersupplied, and the tourists had been disappointed in the lack of wooden signs, tables, and chairs to purchase.

“Yes, I’m sure.” Her eyes looked uncertain as she spoke. Matthew couldn’t help but think she looked cute, and somewhat appealing as she stood motionless. This store was a lot for one person to handle, and yet she wanted to take on the challenge. She definitely had gumption, even if she’d made a mistake in the past.

“Well, I’ll try to stay out of your way as much as possible, then. I’m definitely here to help, but consider me your employee. You know a lot more than I ever will about this store.”

Her shoulders relaxed as she leaned her side against the counter. “Really? Are you sure about that? I know you used to manage a store of your own. It probably will be hard for you to give up the reins.” She scratched her head. “Speaking of the Copperhill General Store, why aren’t you still there?”

He sighed. “I’d rather not talk about it. If that’s okay with you.”

Shrugging her shoulders, she managed a half smile. “Sure. Fine. Whatever suits you best.” Lydia looked at her watch. “There’s still a few hours until opening time. My friend Amelia Miller just had a boppeli, and I promised to stop by her home to pick up some of the soap she sells at the store this morning. She had a supply built up before she went into labor, thankfully.”

“And I’ll ride along, if you don’t mind. I might have a few more questions for you before the store opens, and I’d like to pick your brain.”

He watched as she bristled. “I’m not sure if that’s necessary Matthew, but as you wish. We’ll leave in a few minutes”

Sighing, he trudged out of the store and back towards the buggy. Hopefully, he could fetch his clothing and bring it to his room in John’s home before Lydia planned to leave. He had a sneaking suspicion that his time at the Yoder General Store would be uncomfortable, in more ways than one.

Thank you so much for reading the first chapter of The Shopkeeper’s Match. If you’d like to read the rest of Lydia and Matthew’s story, it can be purchased on Amazon through this link.