Amelia's Journey by Martha Rogers

Author:Martha Rogers
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Charisma House
Published: 2011-11-25T05:00:00+00:00

Ben gazed at his grandfather seated in the wingback chair by the fireplace. Although pale and somewhat thinner, he looked much better than he had before Ben had left a few weeks ago. Still, one could tell by the man’s eyes and shaky hands that he was not well. Thankful that Grandpapa could enjoy Christmas with them, Ben bent on one knee to give the man a hug.

“I’m so glad you feel well enough to be downstairs to enjoy Christmas Eve with us. We’ve all been so worried about you.”

A wrinkled, blue-veined hand grasped Ben’s. “I wouldn’t think of missing Christmas with my youngest son and his family here. It’s so rare that you’re home for the holiday, so this is a treat.”

His voice, though low, still had a strong resonance to it that reminded Ben of his younger days when Grandpapa laughed and played with Ben and his cousins. He’d showed them how to whistle through their fingers, much to the chagrin of their mothers, and he’d taught them all to play chess.

Ben stood when his father and Andrew entered the room. They’d been in Grandpapa’s study, and from the smile of joy on Andrew’s face, the meeting had been successful. Pa clapped his hands for attention.

“Everyone, Mary Beth and Andrew have an announcement to make.” He grinned broadly and nodded for Mary Beth to join Andrew.

Andrew grasped her hand in his and swallowed. “I would like to announce that Mary Beth and I plan to marry. Mr. Haynes has given us his blessings, and we pray the rest of you will also.”

Aunt Clara squealed, and Grandmama muttered something about it being time he declared himself. Ben chuckled. Nothing escaped Grandmama’s attention. As busy as she’d been taking care of Grandpapa, she’d still been aware of what was going on in her family. She’d already told him what a wonderful girl she thought Amelia was and wished him success in winning her father’s approval. With Ma, Clara, and Grandmama all praying for him and Amelia, God had to hear and answer with a positive response.

Ma gathered everyone except Grandpapa around the piano. He had a place of honor in a chair nearby. She began playing Christmas songs, and they all joined in the singing. Twice Ben had to retrieve Billy from beneath the tree. The eight-year-old’s enthusiasm for Christmas was difficult to curb, but he’d have to wait like everyone else.

Ben noticed Mary Beth and Andrew slip away. A few minutes later they returned, and his sister wore the happiest expression on her face he’d ever seen on her. When the carol ended, she leaned over and whispered to Ma.

Ma’s eyes lit up bright as the Christmas tree, and her hands flew to her mouth. Mary Beth turned around and held out her hand. “Andrew has given me his grandmother’s ring for Christmas to make our betrothal official.”

Grandmama, Clara, and Grace Ann all gathered around to admire the ring. Ben leaned over his youngest sister and gulped when he saw the dark blue star sapphire.

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