A Hidden Truth by Judith Miller

Author:Judith Miller
Language: eng
Format: epub, mobi
Tags: FIC042030, FIC042040, FIC042000, Young women—Fiction, Family secrets—Fiction, Amana Society—Fiction
ISBN: 9781441260413
Publisher: Baker Publishing Group

CHAPTER 18

March 1893

Dovie

More than a month had passed since I’d read the letters in Cousin Louise’s room, but my questions still remained unanswered. Berndt had told me where Sister Elsa lived, but finding the time and opportunity to speak to her alone had proved a challenge.

A close watch on Sister Fuch’s Küche finally reaped the benefit I had hoped for. Each afternoon I had waited out of sight as some of the sisters filed out of the Küche to go home for an hour or two after the noonday meal. Unfortunately, Sister Elsa hadn’t been among those who departed to complete personal chores during the afternoon. Not until today.

I smiled at the sight of her, pleased I hadn’t given up my vigil. Once she bid the other sisters good-bye and turned the corner, I hurried along the wooden sidewalk. Taking long strides, I soon closed the gap. “Guten Tag, Sister Elsa.” She stopped short and wheeled around on her heel. “I hope I didn’t startle you.”

She clasped her lightweight cloak against the late March breeze. “Only a little.” She smiled and pointed toward the cloudless blue sky. “Is gut weather we have now. Springtime is my favorite, and it is approaching.”

The warmer weather had been welcomed by most everyone. Everyone except Jakub and his sister, Sophia. Over and over Jakub had lamented the end of ice skating season. I promised we could continue to meet at the pond, but I knew he’d be like the other men—busy preparing and planting the fields. Springtime afternoons would not grant the freedom winter had permitted, and I would see less of him.

“I like this time of year, too.”

Sister Elsa darted a glance to the empty space behind me. “You are alone?” Her voice bore a cautious tone.

“Yes. But just like you, this is my free time away from the Küche.” Hoping to set her at ease, I smiled and drew closer. “I wanted to ask you about something you said when I came to Sister Fuch’s house when we were quilting.”

Her features settled in a deep frown. I didn’t know if she was trying to recall the event or if my question annoyed her. When she didn’t reply, I decided to continue. “You said my mother, Sister Barbara, was very unhappy when she left here. I think you said she was in love with someone named Erich? Is that right?”

“If you have questions about Sister Barbara, you should talk to Sister Louise. She is the best one to tell you anything you want to know.” She stopped in front of a sandstone house—the one I had learned was her residence. Turning toward me, she crossed her index and middle fingers. “Sister Louise and Sister Barbara were as close as blood sisters.” She bobbed her head. “Ja, Sister Louise can answer your questions better than I.”

I thanked her and turned toward home. There was no need to push for anything more. Sister Elsa’s lips were sealed, and I had a strong suspicion Cousin Louise was the one who had sealed them.

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