“It’s somethin’ I think about a lot. Not that I don’t want to be baptized—I just wish Leah could be there, too.” She could imagine that sacred moment, shared by her family, all the People, and her precious friend. It was a day she’d looked forward to for a while now.

“You know you can share whatever’s on your mind with me, like Leah does.” He paused and glanced at her. “Ach, maybe I shouldn’t’ve said that. You’ve got plenty of other people to talk to.”

There was an awkwardness in their silence, and Ellie wished she’d kept her thoughts to herself. He must think you’re ferhoodled, sayin’ such a thing. After a time, she ventured to say, “I’m glad you and Leah are close siblings, like Evan and I used to be.”

“I suspect any change isn’t your doing. Evan’s nothin’ like he was a few years ago. Back then, he talked with me ’bout joining church early.”

With everything that had transpired, it felt so long ago now. “It’s puzzlin’ what happened to change his mind on that, other than becoming too interested in the world.” She sighed. “I wish Even were like you, following the path of peace.”

Sol took a swig of his pop. “Evan will certainly regret being non-resistant.”

“How could he not?” She stared at her last piece of cookie. “I think my parents are worried ’bout the shame it’ll bring on our family. But even more so ’bout the possibility of losin’ Evan in battle.” Her voice broke.

“I’m so sorry, Ellie. I shouldn’t have brought him up.”

She shook her head, unable to speak.

Sol stood there with her at the refreshment table as Ellie finished eating her cookie. Then he excused himself, still looking concerned as he left for the other side of the haymow to hang out with the fellows. His seeking her out here at Singing was another surprise—the first time they’d talked since their conversation at the volleyball game. But it seemed obvious he wanted to discuss their mutual loss of Leah and the family heartache over Evan’s painful decision.

She could see Yonnie and Katie waiting over near the barn entrance, as Menno walked toward her smiling. We’ll have a nice time, she thought.

The following evening, Ruthann arrived in her father’s gray carriage in time for dessert. Since Evan hadn’t stayed around for dessert, Ellie went into the hallway to the side door to greet her like Evan usually did.

“Hullo there, cousin,” Ruthann said, smiling. “These’ll melt if we don’t eat ’em right away.”

“Kumme en,” Ellie said. “Dawdi will be so happy to see ya . . . and have some of your amazing fudge!”

“He does enjoy sweets,” Ruthann said, heading inside as Ellie held the screen door.