A Simple Change Read Online Free Page B

trousers, and brown shoes. I pictured him standing beside a leafless tree and suppressed a smile. In that attire, he’d be a perfect match for the dormant elm in our front yard.
    â€œMother is sleeping. The ringing bell might waken her.”
    â€œSorry.” He ducked his head. “I thought maybe you hadn’t heard it.” He stepped inside and I closed the door.
    â€œThe bell is loud enough I can hear it anywhere in the house.” I gestured for him to hang his coat on the hall tree.
    â€œDid you have a bad day?” Using his thumb and forefinger, he reached forward and pretended to push my lips back into a smile. “Any coffee in the kitchen?” He winked. “And a piece of cake or pie?”
    So much had happened since my return home that afternoon that I didn’t wish to act the hostess, but I waved him forward.“There may be a cup left. I don’t think there is any dessert. Mrs. Oelwine left early today.”
    He chuckled. “You’ll have to put a stop to that. I enjoy her desserts.”
    â€œOf late, desserts haven’t been a matter of high priority to Father and me, and Mother can seldom tolerate rich food.”
    My answer had been curt, and I was surprised when he stopped short and stared at me.
    â€œWhat is wrong with you? You’re not yourself this evening.”
    I walked to the cupboard and removed a coffee cup. “I apologize, but there are times when I have more to worry about than coffee and dessert.”
    â€œIf you’d like me to leave, just say so. You did invite me, didn’t you?”
    I sighed. Nathan was right. None of this was his fault. “I’m sorry, Nathan.” I poured coffee into his cup and carried it to the table. “This has been a day filled with unexpected news that will change our lives.”
    His thick eyebrows lifted on his forehead like two brown wiggly caterpillars. “Our lives? Yours and mine?” He pointed first at himself and then at me. “What news? I haven’t heard anything.”
    â€œThe doctor told Mother there is nothing he can do to restore her health and her condition will only worsen.” I couldn’t bring myself to say she was dying. “Father and Mother have decided to move back to the Amana Colonies in Iowa. It’s what Mother wants, and my father has agreed.”
    At first he grinned, but when he realized I was serious, he turned somber. “How can they even think of such a thing? When is this supposed to happen?”
    I explained what my father had told me only a short time ago.With each remark, he interrupted me with a host of questions. Many of which I couldn’t answer. Finally I said, “You’ll need to ask my father to further explain his arrangements concerning the business. I’ve told you everything I know.”
    â€œDid he mention any particular plans for my future at the company? He must have some idea in mind, since we’ll need a reliable income if I’m going to support you.”
    â€œSupport me?” My mind reeled. Did he think that I would remain behind and marry him? We hadn’t discussed marriage. What was he thinking? “Why would you think you would need to support me?”
    He studied me for a moment. “You know I have feelings for you. I’ve hesitated to mention marriage because you told me that you believed couples should know each other for a long period of time before taking their vows.” He wrapped his hands around the coffee cup. “Have you considered the possibility that this is a sign we should move forward with wedding plans?”
    I shook my head. “No, I don’t think it’s a sign we should marry. I promised my parents I would pray about my future, though I believe I know what I should do.”
    His brow creased, and I didn’t miss the concern shadowing his eyes. “You’re not thinking of going with them, are you?” He pushed aside the empty