“Could be.” Anna wondered once more why Mammi Eliza had seemed to become more alert at the mention of Strasburg. She must have strong memories of her days here. . . .

“It was a long time ago,” Sadie said. “And it wasn’t talked about.”

Anna perked up at this but didn’t respond, even though she was very curious.

Sadie’s blue-gray eyes twinkled. “Just know that Glen and I are delighted to have you with us for whatever time we have together this summer. And, the Good Lord willin’, things might just work out for that job.”

“Whatever happens will be the right thing.”

“I daresay you’re wise beyond your years.” Sadie folded her hands over her pudgy middle and looked across the table with a sweet expression. “’Tis refreshing.”

Anna felt at ease with Sadie, just as Mamm had assured her she would. In fact, if anything, Sadie was more cheerful and easygoing than Anna had remembered, though one wouldn’t think it to look at her—the simple subdued attire seemed to indicate otherwise.

Chapter 3

The next morning, Anna rose before dawn, reached for a light switch out of habit, and smiled to herself as she went to the oak dresser across the room to turn on the battery-powered lamp. A hand mirror lay beside it, and she used it to look at herself, hoping against hope that this day would be filled with good news. Then, going to kneel at the double bed covered with a handmade summer-weight quilt, she prayed as she always did before beginning her day.

Later, after Anna had also read a chapter from the New Testament, she washed up and dressed for the upcoming interview, then checked her text messages. She was glad to see one from Mamm, who was thankful she had arrived safely. Then, going downstairs, she offered to help Cousin Sadie make breakfast. Anna also greeted Cousin Glen, who had returned from helping his son Luke with the morning chore of feeding and watering seventy-five turkeys. Glen was seated at the table in his black suspenders and a dark blue shirt, his graying beard long and thin. A large leather Bible lay inches from his placemat.

“It’s another beautiful day, ain’t?” Glen said as she brought over a bowl of peach yogurt and a loaf of homemade sweet bread on a small tray. “We pray it’s a gut day for you, Anna.”

“Denki.” She was encouraged by his thoughtfulness.

“The Lord is ever faithful,” Sadie said, carrying a large plateful of scrambled eggs to the table. Then she and Anna sat down to join Glen for the silent blessing.