The Courtship Basket by Amy Clipston

Author:Amy Clipston
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Zondervan
Published: 2016-05-01T04:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER 13

“I HAD A REALLY NICE TIME TODAY,” RACHEL TOLD MIKE AS he guided the horse down the main road toward Bird-in-Hand. The light rain sprinkled the windshield as the horse and buggy splashed through the puddles. “Danki for inviting me to stay for supper.”

“I’m froh you could stay.” He flashed a smile before glancing back toward the road ahead.

A smile found Rachel’s lips as she recalled the day they’d spent together. She had enjoyed every moment with Mike and his family, and she was disappointed when it was time to go home. But at least she and Mike had a fairly long buggy ride to continue talking.

“Your dat seemed to be in gut spirits tonight,” she said.

“Ya, he was,” Mike agreed, but his expression collapsed with a frown.

“Was iss letz?”

His scowl deepened. “I can’t help worrying about him. He used to have so much energy. It’s difficult for me to see him so weak.”

“I’m sorry.” She fought the urge to touch his arm and comfort him. Touching him would be wrong, but she felt close to him. It was as if their friendship had deepened after spending so much time together today.

“Thanks.” Mike gave her a bleak smile. “Mei dat really enjoys talking to you. I think your visits help him a lot.”

Rachel’s cheeks warmed. “I appreciate that. I enjoy spending time with him and John, and you too.”

They were silent for a moment, and Rachel wondered if she’d made Mike feel uncomfortable by saying she liked being with him. She hoped she didn’t give him the wrong idea.

“Since you asked me all about my job,” he began with a sideways glance, “it’s my turn to ask you about your work now.”

“All right.” Rachel settled her hands in her lap.

“How do you like teaching?” he asked.

“I enjoy it,” Rachel said, watching raindrops pepper the windshield. “I actually like it better than I thought I would.”

Mike slowed the horse to a stop at a red light. “You didn’t always want to be a teacher?”

Rachel shook her head. “No, I really didn’t. I honestly never considered being a teacher until this year.”

Mike studied her with surprise. “I thought you always wanted to be a teacher. You’re a natural with John.”

“Danki, but teaching was never my goal. I honestly thought I’d be married by now.” She glanced out the side window. “Mei schweschder was married in February, and I was sure I’d be next. I thought I’d be planning my wedding for this fall.”

“Really?” Mike raised an eyebrow.

“Malinda asked me to be her co-teacher after my plans fell apart.” Rachel forced a smile, despite a twinge of disappointment that threatened her happy mood. “It all worked out, and I’m really thankful Malinda asked me to help her. I learned a really important lesson.”

The light turned green, and Mike guided the horse through the intersection.

“What lesson was that?” he asked, keeping his eyes focused on the road.

“I learned that sometimes God’s plan is different from the one you have for yourself,” Rachel said.

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