“Oh, sorry. I’m just glad you weren’t hurt.” Leah went on to say that her coming home was possible only because Carolyn’s parents agreed to travel to help with the children in Chambersburg for the week.

“I’m thankful for that,” Ellie said, leading her into the front room, where the heater stove kept the large area warm and cozy.

Mamm looked up from her stitching, and a big smile burst across her face. “Willkumm Heem, Leah,” she said, setting her handiwork aside.

“It’s gut to be back,” Leah said, sitting in a chair near Mamm. She expressed delight in seeing her, and they talked briefly about the pillowcase Mamm was cross-stitching. Then Leah said, “In my happiest dreams, Ellie was always my sister.” She glanced at Ellie. “Sol’s made a wunnerbaar-gut choice in a mate.”

“And Lyle and I are very pleased with our soon-to-be son-in-law,” Mamm said, which made Ellie equally glad. “He saved Ellie’s life in the fire.”

“He’s so humble that he won’t take credit for it,” Leah replied. “Says the Lord led him to find her lyin’ there.”

Mamm nodded. “We believe that wholeheartedly.”

Again, Ellie turned the conversation away from the fire. “Say, do ya need any help with finishing touches on your bridesmaid dress, maybe?”

“It just needs hemming, which I can do after Mamm pins it for me.” She smiled. “You have no idea how eager I was to get here. Had to drop my bags and come right down to see ya, Ellie . . . always the sister of my heart. Now part of our family in just three days.”

Ellie nodded, gazing at her. “How long are ya here for?”

“Thursday mornin’ I head back.”

“Your family must be awful happy to see ya.”

“I’m not so sure they’ll let me leave again. At least, that’s what Dat said first thing he saw me today,” Leah replied with a smile. “Sol was nodding along.”

“Can’t blame them. Wish there was a way for you to work round here instead.”

“That’s up to Reuben. Oh, before I forget, Sol wants ya to show me the set of china he bought for yous.”

“Sure. Come out to the kitchen pantry—the big box is in there. It’s a practical yet lovely engagement gift.”

Leah smiled. “Sol always seems to know what to choose, considering all the nice birthday gifts he’s given me and our Mamm over the years.”

In the walk-in kitchen pantry, Ellie showed Leah the pretty white dinner plates with a raised circular design along the rim. “It’ll be perfect for special occasions.”

Leah ran her finger over the lovely motif. “You’re right. My brother does have gut taste!”

After their short visit, Ellie walked with Leah down to the end of the lane. “I hate to see ya go,” she said.

“Oh, I’ll be down tomorrow if ya need any help.”