A Forbidden Romance

Nell Stoltzfus has always valued her independence—but with her father insisting she marry, she’s feeling the pressure to figure out her future. A decision that is further complicated when she falls for English veterinarian James Pierce. Nell knows her romantic feelings for James are forbidden in her Amish community. Yet the connection they share only seems to grow deeper when she starts working at his clinic. As Nell’s father urges her to choose an Amish husband, she finds herself torn between devotion to her family and her heart’s only wish. Can Nell turn her secret love for James into a happy ending?

“Nell, I miss you.” James gazed at her warmly.

“James, we can’t do this. I can’t do this.”

“What exactly is this?” he asked quietly. “The fact that we like each other but shouldn’t?”

“Ja, we shouldn’t,” she said and started to turn away.

He captured her arm. “Nell, I’m sorry. I know I have no right to ask anything of you, but please...consider us being friends if we can’t be anything more.”

“I don’t know if I can,” she whispered.

“Why not?”

She nodded. “’Tis too risky. I want more but it will never happen. So I’m sorry, James, but we can’t be friends. Ever.” Nell turned back to the buggy and climbed in.

Her eyes slid over him as they drove away. She was a fool for loving him, but she couldn’t help herself. Her resolve hardened—she needed to find an Amish husband and soon, so that she could forget that the price to pay for following her heart could be detrimental to her future.

REBECCA KERTZ was first introduced to the Amish when her husband took a job with an Amish construction crew. She enjoyed watching the Amish foreman’s children at play and swapping recipes with his wife. Rebecca resides in Delaware with her husband and dog. She has a strong faith in God and feels blessed to have family nearby. Besides writing, she enjoys reading, doing crafts and visiting Lancaster County.

A Secret Amish Love

Rebecca Kertz

www.millsandboon.co.uk

And now these three remain: faith, hope

and love. But the greatest of these is love.

—1 Corinthians 13:13

For my mother-in-law—my other Mom—with love

Contents

Cover

Back Cover Text

Introduction

About the Author

Title Page

Bible Verse

Dedication

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Epilogue

Dear Reader

Extract

Copyright

Chapter One

Lancaster County, Pennsylvania

Nell Stoltzfus opened the door to Pierce Veterinary Clinic and gaped as she stepped inside. Pandemonium reigned in the crowded waiting room. Dogs growled and barked as they strained at their leashes. Some owners spoke sharply while others murmured soothingly as they struggled to control their pets.

A cat in a carrier situated on a woman’s lap meowed loudly in angry protest of the ear-splitting canine activity. An Amish man sat in the corner of the room with a she-goat. The animal bent her head as she tried to eat a magazine in the rack on the floor near the man’s feet. The goat was haltered, and her owner tugged up on the rope lead to keep her from chewing on the glossy pages. The animal bleated loudly as she stubbornly fought to eat.

The goat’s noisy discontent joined in the cacophony of human and animal sounds as the unfamiliar Amish man glanced at Nell briefly before returning his attention to his goat.

She searched the room and frowned. Every available seat was taken. There was no sign of Michelle, Dr. Pierce’s receptionist, whose job it was to check in patients and, on occasion, bring them into the exam rooms when the veterinary assistant, Janie, was busy.

Nell narrowed her gaze, assessing. On most days, there were usually two or three people in the waiting room. At least, every time she’d brought her dog, Jonas, in, there had been only a few people with their pets waiting.

During her first visit to Pierce Veterinary Clinic, just shy of a month after it opened, she’d sought medical help for Jonas after he was cruelly tossed out of a moving car. The visit had been a memorable one.

She’d met Dr. James Pierce, who’d refused to charge her for taking care of Jonas, requesting instead that she spread word of his clinic to anyone who might benefit from his services. And he’d startled her by offering her a temporary job as his assistant, based on her ability to calm her injured rescue dog who had lain trustingly in her arms.

“You have a natural affinity with animals, Nell,” he’d told her during her first visit. During her second and last visit to the clinic, she’d declined but thanked him for his offer, even though she would have liked nothing more than to have the opportunity to learn more about caring for animals since it was her dream to minister to those within her Amish community. But her strong attraction to Dr. Pierce made it wise to keep her distance from him.

Today, Nell had been on her way home after a morning spent with her aunt Katie when she’d decided to stop at the clinic to purchase heartworm medicine for Jonas. At the veterinarian’s suggestion, she had waited to ensure that her dog was fully healed before introducing the medication.

I should go, she thought as she gazed around the room. Clearly, she’d chosen the worst time to come.

She turned to leave, then glanced back when her attention was drawn toward the sound of a door opening and voices. A woman exited from a back room with a tiny kitten.

Nell waited patiently, expecting to glimpse Janie following closely behind. But it wasn’t the assistant she saw. It was Dr. Pierce who escorted the woman to the front desk.

Nell watched as he sat at the desk and keyed something into the computer. She heard the deep, indecipherable rumble of his voice as he spoke. The woman handed him a credit card, and Nell continued to watch as Dr. Pierce handled the transaction, then gave the woman a receipt stapled to a paper that she knew would be the animal’s health summary.

Nell froze, and her heart beat wildly as Dr. Pierce stood. She sent up a silent prayer that she would remain unnoticed, but she was powerless to move or to keep her gaze from checking for any changes in the man since she last saw him over a month ago.

She released a shuddering breath. The veterinarian was still as handsome as ever, dressed in his white lab coat over a blue shirt and black slacks. His short hair, which was a little longer on the top, was tousled as if he’d recently combed his fingers through the dark brown locks. His features were chiseled, his chin firm. There was sharp intelligence in his dark eyes. She recalled the brightness she’d first noticed in them, and his kindness and compassion when he’d treated Jonas. He had a gentle and sincere smile that warmed her all the way from her head to her toes each time she’d seen him.

A shiver of something pleasurable yet frightening slid down the length of her spine as she realized that she was attracted to him. Dr. Pierce still had the ability to affect her more than any other man since Michael, the man she’d loved and lost.

Nell stiffened and fought to banish the feelings. Dr. Pierce threatened her peace of mind. She drew a steadying breath as she struggled to pull herself together.

James. He’d told her at their first meeting to call him James. She shouldn’t. But since that day, every time she saw him she immediately thought of him as James.

She closed her eyes briefly as she shifted farther into the corner of the room to stay unobtrusive. Nell swallowed hard. She didn’t want the man to catch sight of her. As the eldest of five Stoltzfus sisters, she was expected to be the first to marry a faithful member of their Amish community. The last thing she needed was to fall for the English veterinarian. Being in James’s company was dangerous. Even if he’d had feelings for her, there would have been no way for them to be anything other than polite acquaintances. Not that he felt the same attraction. It was all one-sided—her side.

The woman with the kitten turned to leave. On her way to the door, she walked past Nell, who froze. Nell knew that if she moved even a tiny bit, James might notice her.

Something shifted in his expression, as if alarmed at the number of patients in the waiting room.

Nell waited for him to call back the next patient. As soon as he left, she would go. She’d return when Michelle was in the office. Jonas could wait another week to start his medicine. Or she could play it safe and go somewhere else and escape the frightening, forbidden feelings she felt any time she was near James.

She sighed. She couldn’t go elsewhere. It wouldn’t be right after all James had done for Jonas.

Nell remained still but then released a sharp breath when James suddenly saw her. They locked gazes. Surprise and pleasure flashed in the depths of his dark eyes, and she felt an infusion of warmth.

She recognized the panic in his gaze. She sighed. He was lost without his assistant, and she was the only one available who might be able to help.

She had a moment of revelation. The Lord wants me to stay.

“Dr. Pierce?” She stepped forward with a tentative smile on her face. Her heart beat rapidly as she remained the focus of his dark gaze. “May I have a word with you?”

“Of course, Nell.” He waited for her approach.

“No help today?” she asked softly so that the others within the room couldn’t hear their conversation.

He shook his head. “Unfortunately, I’m alone today.”

“I’ll be happy to help if you’d like.”

His eyes brightened as relief swept across his features. “I’d like that. Thank you.”

* * *

James had never been happier to see Nell Stoltzfus. His receptionist, Michelle, was out sick, and Janie, his assistant, was on vacation, and he was swamped and alone dealing with a crowded waiting room.

As he’d watched Nell push out of the corner and approach, he’d been overcome with an immediate sense of calm. He’d never realized it before, but she had the same effect on him as she’d had on her injured rescue dog when she’d first brought Jonas in.

“Come into the back,” he said, aware of the huskiness of his voice. He felt a jolt in his stomach as she smiled and followed him. Nell, a pretty young Amish woman, wore a spring-green dress with matching cape and apron. Her soft brown hair was covered by her white prayer kapp. Her nose was pert and perfectly formed, and her mouth was pink with a slight bow to her upper lip. He felt something shift inside him as he became the focus of her beautiful, brown gaze.

“Dr. Pierce, your waiting room seems unusually full.” Her softly spoken words jerked him to awareness. She studied him with her head slightly tilted as if she were trying to gauge his thoughts. “I’d like to check your schedule.”

They entered the reception area through a door off the hallway, and he showed her where to find the appointment book. “How long can you stay?”

“Through the afternoon.” Her shy smile warmed him from the inside out. “May I use your phone?”

“Of course.” She would need to get word to her family, he realized, so that they wouldn’t worry about her absence. He waited while she made her phone call, trying not to listen as she explained the situation.

“Ja, Bob,” he heard her say. “Ja, that would be gut. Thank you. Tell them that I shouldn’t be too late.” She glanced up to meet his gaze, and James instantly moved away to give her privacy.

He approached after Nell hung up the phone and stood. “Is everything all right?”

“Ja, ’tis fine.” Her gaze met his, then slid away. He watched her study Michelle’s appointment book. Her eyes narrowed. “You definitely don’t have this many patients expected today,” she murmured with a frown. “I’ll have to do some rescheduling.”

He started to leave, then turned. “Nell?”

She dragged her eyes away from the page to meet his gaze. “Ja?”

“Thank you.” He spoke quietly so that no one would overhear him, but he knew immediately that she’d heard.

“You’re willkomm,” she breathed, and then she waved him away as she went back to studying the appointment book.

With a smile on his face, he opened the door to the back room.

“Dr. Pierce?”

He halted and faced her. “Yes?”

“Which exam rooms are available for patients?”

“One, three and four,” he told her without hesitation. Then he entered the back of the clinic and went on to exam room two where his next patient waited.

James was examining the ear of a golden retriever when Nell knocked softly before opening the door.

“Dr. Pierce?”

“Yes, Nell?” he inquired without looking up.

“I’ve put Mrs. Rogan and Boots in exam room one and Mr. Jones with his dog Betsy in three. Mr. Yoder and his goat are in four. I rescheduled three patients for tomorrow because they didn’t have appointments and your schedule could handle them then. Mrs. Pettyjohn is here with her poodle. She is your last appointment.”

He straightened. “Already?” Amazed, he stared at her.

She gazed at him, her brown eyes filled with uncertainly. “Already?” she echoed.

“Are we really almost finished?” he asked. “Thank you for getting control of the situation so quickly.” He looked sheepish. “I’ve been struggling about how to handle everyone for the last hour and a half.” He rubbed his fingers through the dog’s coat. “Bailey is going to be fine, Mrs. Martin.”

The woman looked relieved as she glanced back and forth between them. “Thank you, Dr. Pierce.”

“You’re welcome.” He turned toward Nell, pleased that she hadn’t moved. “Nell, would you mind checking out Mrs. Martin and Bailey?”

“I’d be happy to,” she said politely. She turned to the dog’s owner. “Mrs. Martin, would you please follow me?”

James caught Nell’s gaze as she waited for the woman and her dog to walk past her. He grinned in approval and was relieved to see her answering smile before she quickly followed Mrs. Martin.

Nell came into the back as he exited exam room two. “I forgot to tell you that Mrs. Rogan in exam room one had the next earliest appointment, then Mr. Jones, then Abraham Yoder.”

He couldn’t keep from studying her face. Nell Stoltzfus was genuinely lovely, with no need for artificial enhancement. He noted her smooth, unblemished skin, her pink lips, the reddish tinge to her cheeks. Since graduating from vet school, he’d had little time for a personal life, especially now that he was working hard to establish his new practice. He didn’t know why, but there was something about her that made him long for something more. “Thank you, Nell.”

“You’re willkomm, Dr. Pierce.”

He briefly met her gaze. “James, please,” he invited. Again.

“James,” she said then she blushed. “It was Mrs. Beggs, Mr. Merritt and Mrs. McDaniel whom I rescheduled.”

“I appreciate your help,” he told her, meaning it. “I didn’t expect Michelle and Janie to both be out today. Janie asked for the week off, and Michelle is home with a stomach bug.” He sighed. “I confess that I’m not good at juggling appointments.”

Nell looked confused. “Juggling?”

He laughed. “Sorry, I’m not laughing at you but at myself. I don’t know how Michelle does her job. She’s good at what she does.” He studied her thoughtfully, liking what he saw. “Apparently, you’re good at it, too.”

“At juggling appointments?” She arched her eyebrows.

“Yes.” He chuckled, and the smile that came to Nell’s pink lips had him mesmerized until he realized that he was staring. He stole one last glance at her as he opened the door to room one.

He heard her “Ja” before he closed the door.

* * *

The day passed quickly, and soon the last patient had been seen. Nell set aside the appointment book along with the checks, money and credit card transactions for the day. Fortunately, she’d quickly figured out how to use the credit card machine. She’d seen Bob Whittier of Whittier’s Store use one often enough to recall how it was done.

She even had the opportunity to assist James with his last patient. Mrs. Pettyjohn’s poodle, Roggs, had a lump above his right hind leg. James had determined it to be an abscess following a small injury. He’d asked for her help as he did minor surgery to open the wound.

“Will he be all right?” Nell asked as she handed him supplies and observed his work.

“He’ll be fine. It looks as if he got into a rosebush. See this thorn?” He held up a tiny dark object that he’d removed with tweezers. “I’ll prescribe an antibiotic for a couple of weeks. He’ll have to wear a cone until his follow-up appointment.”

Nell had enjoyed her afternoon at the clinic being his assistant. Too much. And she knew it had as much to do with the man as working with animals. Thankfully, the day was over, and after she helped to clean up, she’d be able to leave.

She cleaned the exam room floors with disinfectant. She was quiet as she mopped, her thoughts filled with what she’d seen and heard that day. When she was done, she emptied out the wash water and put away the bucket and mop.

“I’m finished with the floors, Doctor—James,” she told him as he came into the reception area where she picked up her purse. “I’ll be heading home now.”

“Thank you so much for your help today,” he said. “I don’t know how I would have managed without you.” He gazed at her a moment, then frowned. “Why did you come into the office today?”

“My dog, Jonas, is well and old enough to start his heartworm medicine.”

“I’ll get it for you.” James retrieved a box from a cabinet and handed it to her. “Take it. No charge. If you come back tomorrow, I’ll have cash for you.”

“For what?” She frowned. “For helping out for a few hours? Nay, I’ll not take your money.”

“Nell...”

“Nay, James.”

“But you’ll take the medicine.”

She opened her mouth to object but relented when she saw his expression. The man wasn’t going to take no for an answer. “Ja. Danki.” She gasped as she saw the time on the office wall clock. “I’ve got to go. Mam will be holding dinner for me.” She hurried toward the door. “Gut night, James.”

“Good night, Nell,” he said softly.

Nell promptly left and ran toward her buggy, which was parked in the back lot several yards away from the building. She unhitched her mare, Daisy, then climbed into her vehicle.

As she reached for the reins, she watched as James headed toward his car. He stood by the driver’s side and lifted a hand to wave. She nodded but didn’t wave back. As she drove out onto the road, her thoughts turned to her family and most particularly her father, who wouldn’t be pleased that she was late for supper.

She spurred Daisy into a quick trot and drove home in record time. As she steered the mare into the barnyard, her sister Leah came out of the house to greet her.

“Dat’s been wondering why you’re late,” Leah said as the two sisters walked toward the house.

“I was helping Dr. Pierce at the veterinary clinic.” Nell stiffened. “Didn’t Bob Whittier get word to you?”

“About a half hour ago.”

“Ach, nay,” Nell said with dismay. “I didn’t know he’d wait until that late. I called him hours ago.”

“He sent word with Joshua Peachy but Joshua got sidetracked when he saw an accident on the stretch of road between Yoder’s General Store and Eli’s carriage shop. A truck hit a car and there were children...”

“I’m sorry to hear that. Is everyone all right?”

“Joshua didn’t know.”

“Is Dat angry with me?”

“Nay, Joshua told him what happened and why he couldn’t get word to us earlier.”

“But?”

“But he expected you sooner, and I don’t think he was too happy that you stayed to help out James Pierce.”

“Leah, you should have seen the waiting room. It was noisy and crowded, and there was no staff to help him. Both Michelle and Janie were out and he was alone. I believe that God wanted me to help him.”

Her sister smiled. “Then that’s what you tell Dat. He can’t argue with the Lord.”

As she entered the kitchen, Nell saw her other sisters seated at the table with her parents. She nodded to each of them then settled her gaze on her father. “Dat,” she said. “I’m sorry I’m late. I didn’t expect to be gone so long.”

To her surprise, her father nodded but didn’t comment.

Nell took her place at the table, and Dat led them as they gave thanks to the Lord for their meal. Nell’s sister Charlie started a conversation, and all of her sisters joined in as food was passed around.

As she reached for the bowl of mashed potatoes, Nell caught her dat studying her with a thoughtful expression. She felt suddenly uneasy. Her father might have seemed unaffected by her lateness, but she could tell that after supper he would want to talk with her, and she had no idea what he was going to say or how she would answer him. The truth was, she had enjoyed her afternoon at Pierce Veterinary Clinic too much to be sorry that she’d decided to stay.

“Tell him what you’ve just told me,” her sister Leah had advised her.

I’ll tell him how I felt...that God had wanted me to stay and help James. Dr. James Pierce. She only hoped that Dat understood and accepted her decision as the right one.

Chapter Two

James admired the beautiful scenery as he drove his silver Lexus deeper into Lancaster County Amish country. Farmhouses surrounded by acres of corn dotted the landscape. Cows and sheep milled in pastures near Amish residences. Flowers bloomed in riotous color in gardens next to white front porches, while lawns were a splash of verdant green from the summer rains that had showered the earth recently. Familiar dark and solid-colored clothing flapped in the breeze, bringing back memories of James’s teenage years living in an Amish community.

Seeing the Amish woman Nell again reminded him that it had been too long since he’d visited his mother and stepfather, so instead of going back to his apartment as he usually did, he turned in the opposite direction, toward the farm where he’d lived from the age of fifteen until he’d left Lancaster County at eighteen to attend college in Ohio.

His stepfather and mother’s farm loomed up ahead. The beauty of it nearly stole his breath even while he felt suddenly nervous.

He didn’t know why. He knew they both would be glad to see him. It wouldn’t matter to them that he’d moved into the area over two months ago and had stopped by only once. He’d set up his practice here because he’d wanted to be closer to his family. Yet, for some reason he’d stayed away.

He drove over the dirt road that led to his stepfather’s farmhouse and pulled into the yard near the barn. He didn’t see the family buggy. He parked out of the way of the barn door, in case whoever had taken out the vehicle returned.

There was no sign of anyone in the front or side yard as James turned off the engine and climbed out of his car. He paused a moment with the door open to stare at the house that had once been his home.

It had been hard moving into this house after his father had died and his mother had married Adam. It wasn’t that he didn’t want his mother to be happy. But he’d missed his dad. Grief-stricken, he’d been a terrible son, bitter and angry and difficult to control. But Adam was a kind man, who seemed to understand what James was going through. Because of Adam’s understanding, patience and love, James had grown to love and respect his stepfather.

James shut the car door. He was here, and he would wait for everyone’s return, not run like the frightened teenage boy he’d been when he’d first moved into Adam Troyer’s house. He wandered toward the backyard and saw a woman taking laundry down from the clothesline.

“Mom?” He hurried in her direction.

She stiffened, then with a garment in her hand turned slowly. She was too young to be his mother although the resemblance to her was striking. His eyes widened. “Maggie?”

“Ja, bruder.” Her mouth firmed. “You finally decided to pay us a visit.”

It had been too long since he’d seen his younger sister. He felt a rush of gladness that quickly turned to hard-hitting guilt.

“You weren’t home when I last visited.” He regarded her with affection. “It’s good to see you, Mags.”

“Nobody calls me that but you.” She dropped a garment into a wicker clothes basket.

He grinned. “Yes, I know.”

Warmth entered her expression. “So you really did move back to Happiness.”

“I did—close to two months ago.” He held up his hand. “I know. I should have come again sooner. I’ve been struggling to grow my veterinary practice but...” He sighed. “It’s no excuse.”

He gazed at his little sister who was now a woman. He regretted missing her teenage years. He hadn’t been here for her while she was growing up. He’d left home, driven to follow in his late father’s footsteps. He’d attended college in Ohio, then went to Penn Vet for veterinary school. “I’m sorry I wasn’t here for you.”

She dismissed it with a wave of her hand. “I have a gut life. Mam and Dat are wonderful and Abby—” Her eyes widened. “Have you seen our little sister yet? You won’t recognize Abigail, James. She’s eighteen now.”

Regret overwhelmed him, and James closed his eyes. “I missed too much.”

“You’re here now,” she reminded him softly. She was quiet a moment as she studied him. “You’ll have time to see her now.”

“And Matt and Rosie?” he asked of his stepsiblings.

Maggie smiled. “They are doing well. You wouldn’t recognize them either.” She studied him silently. “Matt is nineteen and Rosie’s sixteen.” She eyed him with curiosity. “Are you happy, James?”

Was he? No one had thought to ask whether or not he was content with his life—not even himself. He should be more than pleased with what he’d accomplished, but was he? He honestly didn’t know.

“I enjoy helping animals, and my work reminds me of the time I spent with Dad. But happy? I’m working on it. What about you?”

A tiny smile came to her lips, and her green eyes sparkled. “Ja, I’m happy.”

He stared at her, intrigued. He grinned. “You’re being courted!”

She looked surprised and pleased that after all these years he still could read her so well. “Ja,” she confessed. “His name is Joshua Fisher. He’s a kind man.”

“How old is Joshua Fisher?”

His sister narrowed her gaze at him. “Why?”

He didn’t answer her.

She sighed. “He’s twenty-one.”

“I’m pleased for you, Maggie.” Warmth filled him as he studied her. “You like the Amish way of life.” Like him, she was raised English until their father died and their mother had brought them from Ohio to live in his grandparents’ home in Lancaster County.

Her gaze slid over him. “You didn’t seem to mind our Amish life,” she reminded him. “Once you’d adjusted.”

It was true. He had learned to appreciate the life he’d once rebelled against. The quiet peace that came from working on the farm when he was a boy eventually had soothed his inner turmoil over losing the father whom he’d loved, admired and always wanted to emulate.

“Where’s Mam?” he said, slipping easily back into Pennsylvania Deitsch, considering how long he’d been away.

Maggie eyed him shrewdly. “In the haus.” She paused. “Dat’s there, too.”

“He’s done working for the day?” His stepfather was a hardworking man, just like his own father had been. Would Adam scold him for staying away?

James experienced a sudden onset of uneasiness. The man who’d married his mother had been a good father to him, and he’d repaid him by being difficult and mean during those first months...and then he must have hurt Adam, leaving home when he did to follow the path he’d set out for himself away from their Amish village.

“Ja, you came at the right time. Mam and Abigail are making supper. Will you stay?”

He felt his tension leave him as he acknowledged the truth. “Ja.” He knew this was an open invitation. It was the Amish way to be hospitable and never turn a single soul away. “Will they be glad to see me?” he murmured. He studied the house. “I guess I’ll head inside.”

“James!” his sister called as he started toward the house. He stopped and faced her.

Maggie’s gaze was filled with warmth and understanding. “’Tis gut to see you. Our eldre will be happy that you’ve come. Please, James, don’t stay away too long again.” She pretended to scowl. “I’ve missed your ugly face.”

James couldn’t stop the grin that came with the lightening of his spirit. “You’ll be eager to get rid of me now that I’m living close and can visit frequently.”

She shook her head. “Nay, I won’t.” She regarded him with affection. “I’ll always be happy to see you, big bruder.”

They eyed each other with warmth. “I’d better go,” he said. “You’ll be in soon?”

“A few moments more and I’ll be done here.”

“I’ll see you inside then.”

Despite anticipating a warm welcome, James felt his stomach burn as he crossed the yard toward the back door leading into his mother’s kitchen. He drew a deep cleansing breath as he rapped on the wooden door frame.

The door swung open within seconds to reveal his stepfather, who blinked rapidly. “James?” Adam greeted softly as if he couldn’t believe his eyes.

James offered a tentative smile. “Hallo, Dat.” He watched with awe as happiness transformed his stepfather’s expression.

“Come in!” he invited with a grin as he stepped back to allow him entry. “Your mudder will be pleased to see you.” He regarded James with affection. “I’m glad you’ve come back to visit.” His eyes brightened as if Adam fought tears. “You look well, soohn. Your clinic is doing gut?”

James suddenly felt as if a big weight had been lifted off his shoulders as he entered the house. “It’s doing better now, Dat.” He needed this homecoming. Adam was still the warm, patient and kind man he’d always been, and James was so thankful for him. “It was hard to get started at first. I’m getting more patients, though.”

Adam smiled. “I’m happy for you, James. I’m certain that you’ll make a success of it.” He gestured toward the kitchen table. “Sit, sit. I’ll get your mudder.”

James sat, aware that the house held all the wonderful cooking smells reminiscent of those he’d loved and remembered from his childhood.

Before Adam could leave to find her, his mother entered the kitchen from the front of the house. “I thought I heard voices, husband. Who—” Her eyes widened as they filled with tears of joy. “James!” She beamed at him. “You’re back.”

James grinned. “Hallo, Mam. I’m sorry I haven’t been back sooner.”

His mother brushed off his apology. “You’re here now. That’s all that matters.” She met her husband’s gaze with a pleased, loving smile. “He’s come home again,” she whispered huskily.

Adam moved to his wife’s side and placed a loving hand on her shoulder. His smile for her was warm. “Ja, he has.” He captured James’s gaze. “And he is happy to be here.” His stepfather grinned when James nodded. “I know ’tis near suppertime, Ruth, but why don’t we have tea first?”

James watched his mother put on the teakettle. He had to stifle the urge to get up and help, knowing that it would upset her if he tried. In her mind, a woman’s work was in the house while a man’s work was on the farm or at his business. Adam’s farm was small but large enough to provide for his family. His stepfather made quality outdoor furniture for a living, and Adam was good at his work.

The teakettle whistled as Mam got out cups, saucers and tea bags.

“It’s gut to be back,” James said sincerely. It was good to see his family and the farm.

He made a silent vow that he would return more frequently to spend time with the family he loved and missed, he realized, during the years he’d been away from Happiness, Pennsylvania.

* * *

Her father came into the room as Nell was drying the last of the supper dishes. “Dochter, when you’re done, come out onto the porch. I want to talk with you.”

“I’ll be right out, Dat.” She was putting away dishes when her sister pitched in to help. “Danki, Ellie.” Nell hung up her wet tea towel on the rack when they were done.

“He’ll not bite you,” Ellie said softly.

Nell flashed her a look. “I didn’t think he would.”

“Then stop looking scared. Dat loves us.” Her lips twitching, she teased, “Even you.”

“I know, but I’m afraid he’s angry that I didn’t come right home from Aunt Katie’s.”

“He’s not angry,” Ellie assured her.

“Disappointed? Upset?”

“He was worried. Joshua didn’t come until it was too late for him not to worry.”

“I know. I’m sorry. I didn’t know that Bob would send Joshua.”

“Nor could you foresee the accident that would keep Joshua from getting to us sooner.”

“Then why does he want to talk with me?”

Her sister shrugged. “Only one way to find out.”

Nell nodded. “I guess I better go then.”

She couldn’t regret her afternoon at the clinic. She’d had a taste of what it might have been like if she’d accepted James’s job offer as his assistant. She loved animals. She enjoyed spending time with them, caring for them, holding them. After her sister Meg became gravely ill, and Michael—the man she’d loved—had died, her animals had been Nell’s only solace.

Working the afternoon at Pierce’s Veterinary Clinic, she believed, was God’s reward for doing the right thing.

Her father was standing on the front porch gazing at the horizon when Nell joined him.

“Dat?”

“Gut, you’re here.”

“Dat, if this is about today, I’m sorry that you were worried. I called Bob as soon as I knew that I’d be staying. I didn’t know about Joshua and the accident.”

“This isn’t about today,” he said, “although I was worried when you didn’t come home.”

“I’m sorry.”

“You did what you should have. Joshua explained everything.” He turned to stare out over the farm. “’Tis about something else. Something I’ve been meaning to talk with you about.”

“What is it, Dat?”

“You’re twenty-four, Nell. ’Tis time you were thinking of marrying and having a family of your own. Other community women your age are married with children, but you have shown no interest in having a husband. I’m afraid you’re spending too much time with your animals.”

Nell’s heart lurched with fear. He’d talked previously of marriage to her but not negatively about her animals. “Dat, I enjoy them.” She inhaled sharply. “You want me to get rid of them?”

He faced her. “Nay, Dochter, I know you care for those critters, and as unusual as that is, I wouldn’t insist on taking anything away that gives you such joy. But having a husband and children should be more important. You’re getting older, and your chances at marriage are dwindling. You need to find a husband and soon. If not, then I’ll have to find one for you.”

“How am I supposed to get a husband, Dat?” She’d loved Michael and hoped to marry him until he’d died of injuries from an automobile accident.

She knew she was expected to marry. It was the Amish way. But how was she to find a husband?

Chapter Three

Saturday morning found the five Stoltzfus sisters in the kitchen with their mother preparing food for the next day. This Sunday was Visiting Day, and the family would be spending it at the William Mast farm. Nell and her sister Leah were making schnitz pies made from dried apples for the gathering. Mam and Ellie were kneading bread that they would bake today and eat with cold cuts tomorrow evening after they returned home. Meg and their youngest sister, Charlie, were cutting watermelon, honeydew melons and cantaloupe for a fresh fruit salad.

“I’m going to Martha’s on Monday,” Meg announced as she cut fruit and placed it in a ceramic bowl. “We’re planning to work on craft items for the Gordonville Mud Sale and Auction.”

“What’s so special about the Gordonville sale?” Charlie asked.

Ellie smirked. “She’s hoping to see Reuben.”

Meg blushed. “I don’t know that he’ll be there.”

“But that’s your hope,” Nell said.

For as long as Nell could remember, Meg had harbored feelings for Reuben Miller, a young man from another Amish church community. She’d met him two years ago at their youth singing, after their cousin Eli had invited Reuben and his sister Rebecca, whom Eli liked at the time, to attend.

Reuben had struck up a conversation with Meg, and Meg immediately had taken a strong liking to him. Although the young man hadn’t attended another singing, Meg continued to hold on to the hope that one day they’d meet again and he’d realize that she was the perfect girl for him.

Nell eyed her middle sister. “Meg, if you see Reuben and find out that he’s courting someone, what are you going to do?”

Meg’s features contorted. “I don’t know,” she whispered.

“You could be hurt, but still you won’t give up...” Leah added.

Meg nodded. “I can’t. Not if there is the slightest chance that he doesn’t have a sweetheart. I know we spent only a few hours together, but I really liked him,” she admitted quietly. “I still do.”

“If you want a sweetheart, why not consider Peter Zook?” Nell suggested, anticipating Meg’s negative response.

“Peter!” her sister spat. “I don’t want Peter Zook’s attention.”

“Peter’s a nice boy,” Mam said.

“Exactly! He’s a boy.” She sniffed. “Reuben is a man.”

Nell held back a teasing retort. Peter was the same age as Reuben. He was a kind and compassionate young man who’d had the misfortune of falling in love with her sister, who wanted nothing to do with him. In her opinion, Meg could do no better than Peter Zook.

If only she could find someone her age who was kind, like Peter, to marry. An Amish friend she could respect and eventually regard fondly as they built a life together.

“I hope it works out for you, Meg,” she said as she squeezed her sister’s shoulder gently.

Meg smiled at her. “Danki.”

“Would you and Martha like help on Monday? I can make pot holders for the sale,” their youngest sister offered.

“That would be nice, Charlie,” Meg said. “Danki.”

The day passed quickly with the sisters chatting about many topics while they worked, including their Lapp cousins and who they expected to visit tomorrow at the Mast home.

Sunday morning arrived warm and sunny. At nine o’clock, their father brought the buggy close to the back door. The girls filed out of the house with food and into the buggy. Nell handed them the pies she and Leah had baked before climbing inside herself.

“Dat, Onkel Samuel and Endie Katie are coming, ja?” Leah asked as Dat steered the horse away from the house and onto the paved road.

“Ja, so your onkel said,” he replied.

“Endie Katie said the same when I saw her the other day.”

“Will all of our cousins be coming with their kinner? Noah and Rachel, Annie and Jacob, Jedidiah and Sarah?”

“I believe so,” Dat said.

Nell smiled. She enjoyed spending time with her male cousins and their spouses. And she was eager to see Ellen, William and Josie’s daughter, who had come to her aid and taken her and Jonas to the vet the day Nell had rescued him.

Buggies were parked on the lawn to the left in front of the barn when Dat pulled in next to the last vehicle.

Nell got out of the carriage first. Seeing her, Ellen Mast waved and hurried to meet her.

“Hallo, Nell! How’s Jonas?”

“He’s doing wonderfully. His leg is healed, and he’s gained weight. I’m about to start him on heartworm medicine.”

The young blond woman looked pleased. “I’m so glad. I think it was a gut thing that you were the one to rescue him. I’m sure he’s happy and well.”

Nell beamed. “I’d like to think so.” She and Ellen strolled toward the house as the other members of her family slowly followed.

Another gray family carriage parked next to theirs. “Look!” Charlie exclaimed. “’Tis the Adam Troyers!”

“Charlie!” Rosie Troyer called as she exited the vehicle. Abigail climbed out behind her and waved. The eldest sister, Maggie, and their brother Matthew followed and approached Ellen and the Stoltzfus sisters with a smile.

“I didn’t expect to see you here,” Ellie said with a smile. “I’m glad you could come.”

“Ja, we thought our oldest bruder was coming also, but he was called out on an emergency,” Maggie told them.

“Hallo, Ellen.” Matthew turned to Nell next with a smile. “Nell, ’tis gut to see you.”

Nell’s lips curved. “Matthew.”

Adam and Ruth Troyer approached. “Ellen, Nell. ’Tis gut to see you both. Ellen,” Ruth said, “is your mudder inside?”

“Ja, I last saw her in the kitchen.”

Loud, teasing male voices drew their attention. Nell’s Lapp cousins Elijah, Jacob, Noah, Daniel and Joseph hurried out into the yard and gathered on the back lawn. Moments later, they were joined by her friend Ellen’s younger brothers, Will and Elam.

Jedidiah came from the direction of the barn. “Found them!” he said, holding up a baseball bat and ball.

“Matthew! You going to play ball with us?” Isaac called.

“Ja, I’ll play.” With another smile in Nell’s direction, the young man left to have fun with Nell’s cousins.

“Nell, you watch the game and I’ll bring your pies inside.”

She smiled as she gave her pies to her friend. “Danki, Ellen.”

Ellen entered the house, leaving her alone with Maggie.

“I didn’t know you had another bruder, Maggie,” Nell admitted, focusing on Maggie’s revelation, as the baseball game began.

“Ja. He’s a doctor and seven years older than me. He left our community when he was eighteen.” Maggie’s eyes filled with affection. “I’ve missed him so much. I was able to spend time with him yesterday but still...” She grinned. “Fortunately, he’s moved closer to home, and we’ll be able to see him more often. I’m sure you’ll meet him eventually.”

Nell didn’t know why, but she felt an odd anticipation as if she were on the urge of learning something significant. “You said your bruder was called out on an emergency,” she said. “What does he do?”

“He’s a veterinarian. He’s recently opened a clinic here in Happiness.”

The strange sensation settled over Nell. Despite the difference in their last names, could James be Maggie’s brother? If the young woman’s sibling was a veterinarian, then she doubted that the man was a member of the Amish community. “What’s his name?” she asked, although she had a feeling she knew.

“James Pierce.” Maggie smiled. “He owns Pierce Veterinary Clinic. Have you heard of him?”

“Ja. In fact, ’twas your bruder who treated my dog, Jonas, after I found him.”

“Then you’ve met him!” Maggie looked delighted. “Is he a gut veterinarian?”

Startled by this new knowledge of James, Nell could only nod at first. “He was wonderful with Jonas. He’s a kind and compassionate man.” She studied Maggie closely and recognized the family resemblance that she previously hadn’t noticed between her and James. “How is he a Pierce and you a Troyer?”

“I am a Pierce.” Maggie grinned. “Abigail is, too. But we don’t go by the Pierce name. Adam is our stepfather, and he is our dat now. We were young when we lost our vadder. I was six, and Abigail was just a bebe. We lived in Ohio back then. After our vadder died, Mam moved us to Lancaster County where she was raised. She left Pennsylvania to marry Dat and start a life with him in Ohio. Mam was heartbroken when Dat died. She couldn’t stay in Ohio without her husband and decided to return home to Lancaster County.”

Maggie’s eyes filled with sadness. “I didn’t mind. I was too young to care, but James was thirteen and he had a hard time with the move. He loved and admired Dad, and he’d wanted to be a veterinarian like him since he was ten. James used to accompany Dad when he visited farmers to treat their animals. He was devastated by Dad’s death, and he became more determined to follow in Dad’s footsteps.”

Nell felt her heart break for James, who must have suffered greatly after his father’s death. “You chose the Amish life, but James chose a different path.”

“And he’s doing well,” Maggie said. “My family is thrilled that he set up his practice in Happiness, because he wanted to be closer to us.”

“He missed you,” Nell said quietly.

The young woman grinned. “I guess he did. I certainly missed him. I’m glad to have my big bruder back.”

Nell couldn’t get what she’d learned about James and the Troyers out of her mind. It didn’t help her churned-up emotions when, later that afternoon, James arrived to spend time with his family.

She recognized his silver car immediately as he drove into the barnyard and parked. Nell watched as he got out of his vehicle, straightened and closed the door. James stood a moment, his gaze searching, no doubt looking for family members. She couldn’t move as he crossed the yard to where William Mast and others had set up tables and bench seats. They had enjoyed the midday meal, but there was still a table filled with delicious homemade desserts, including the schnitz pies that she and Leah had baked yesterday morning.

She couldn’t tear her gaze away as James headed to the gathering of young people, including his sisters Maggie and Abigail as well as their stepsiblings, Rosie and Matthew.

Nell found it heartwarming to see that all of his siblings regarded him with the same depth of love and affection. She watched as James spoke briefly to Maggie, who grinned as Abigail, Rosie and Matthew approached him, clearly delighted that he’d handled his emergency then decided to come. She heard the siblings teasing and the ensuing laughter. Maggie said something to James as she gestured in Nell’s direction.

James turned and saw her, and Nell froze. Her heart started to beat hard when he broke away from the group to approach her.

* * *

“Nell!” Warmed by the sight of her, James smiled as he reached her. “I didn’t expect to see you here.”

Her lips curved. “I didn’t expect to see you here either.”

“So you know my family.” He didn’t know why the knowledge startled him. Not that he was upset. In fact, it was nice to know that before they’d even met, he and Nell had shared an undiscovered connection.

“I’ve known them a long time. I had no idea that your family is the Troyers.” She shifted her gaze to his sister Maggie. “Then I recognized the resemblance between you and Maggie.” She smiled. “I’ve always liked your sister. She’s a gut friend, and I like her sweetheart, Joshua Fisher, too.”

“Joshua is here?” James attempted to pick him out of the gathering.

“Nay. He couldn’t come today. His grossmudder is ill, and he thought it best to spend time with her and his family.”

He was pleased to hear that Nell thought well of the man his sister loved. “He’s a good man,” he murmured, his gaze on his sister’s smiling face.

“Ja, and he’ll make Maggie a gut husband.”

James settled his gaze on Nell’s pretty, expressive features. “I’m glad you think so. I haven’t met him yet, but I trust your judgment.”

Nell appeared startled. She blushed as if embarrassed by his praise. “I’m sure you’ll meet him soon.”

They stood silently for several seconds. James felt comfortable with Nell, and she seemed to have relaxed around him, too.

“Nell.”

She met his gaze.

“I was going to stop by your house. I received a phone call from Michelle today. Her stomach virus has spread to her husband and children, and she won’t be back for days. Perhaps even a week. Janie isn’t due back from vacation for another week. Would you consider working at the clinic next week? I’ll pay you a good wage.”

She seemed suddenly flustered, but he could tell that she liked the idea. “I’ll have to ask my dat,” she said.

“May I talk with him? I may be able to help ease his mind.”

“I don’t know...” She glanced toward an area under a shade tree where a group of older Amish men were conversing.

“Are you afraid that he won’t like me?”

“Nay!” she gasped, her eyes flashing toward his. She softened her tone. “Nay. It’s not that.”

“Then let me speak with him.” He frowned. “Unless you don’t want the job.”

“I wouldn’t mind working at the clinic again.”

James grinned as he sensed the exact moment when Nell gave him permission to talk with her father.

He immediately knew who her father was when a man looked sharply at Nell and then him. “I’ll be right back,” James told her as he made his way to the man who’d left the group to approach.

“Sir,” James greeted him. “I’m James Pierce. Your daughter helped me last Thursday at my veterinary clinic.”

“Arlin Stoltzfus,” the man said as he narrowed his gaze to take stock of James, “and I wonder how you know that Nell is my dochter.”

“A gut guess?” James said, slipping into Pennsylvania Deitsch and noting the man’s surprise, which was quickly masked by a frown.

“What do you want, James Pierce?”

“A favor,” James said. He softened his expression.

“What kind of favor?” The man eyed him with doubt.

“First, would you feel better knowing that I’ve come to visit my family—the Troyers—and not Nell?”

Something flickered in the man’s expression. “You’re Adam and Ruth’s eldest son.”

“Ja, I have the gut fortune to have their love.”

The concern eased from Arlin’s expression. “I’m sure you are a gut man, James Pierce.”

“James,” James invited, and Arlin smiled. “But now that I’ve seen Nell here today, I’d like to ask your permission for Nell to work in the clinic next week.”

The man lowered his eyebrows. “Why?”

“I have no staff next week. My receptionist is taking care of her sick family as well as recuperating from illness herself. My assistant is away with her husband and not expected back until a week from tomorrow. I would need her to fill in for one week only.”

Arlin glanced toward Nell, who was talking with two young women. “Have you mentioned this to her?”

James shifted uncomfortably. “Ja, I wished to know if she was interested before I came to you.”

“And she is interested,” the man murmured, “which is no surprise, considering how much she loves caring for animals.”

Nell glanced in their direction, then quickly looked away, but not before James recognized longing in her expression. She wanted the opportunity to work in the clinic if only for a short time.

Nell’s father sighed heavily as he studied his daughter. His expression was light, and there was amusement in his brown eyes as he met James’s gaze. “She can work with you. She’ll be disappointed if I refuse permission.”

James smiled. “And above everything, you want your dochter’s happiness.” He watched with stunned surprise as Arlin waved at his daughter to join them. Nell approached, looking fearful as she glimpsed her father’s stern expression.

“You want to work for him?” he asked sharply.

“Ja, Dat, but only if you give permission.”

Arlin’s expression softened. “He belongs to the Troyers. I give permission,” he said, surprising James.

James grinned. “Monday morning, eight o’clock sharp. Can you be there?”

“I can be there,” Nell said. She turned toward her father. “I’ll have my morning chores done before I go.”

“Ja, I have no doubt of that,” Arlin said.

“Do you need a ride?”

Arlin narrowed his gaze. “She will take the family buggy.”

He nodded. “Danki,” he said.

“James!”

He glanced over and beamed as his mother approached. “I’m happy you could make it,” she said.

He regarded her with affection. “I’m happy I’m here.” His gaze flickered over Arlin and Nell who were standing next to him. “My staff is out, and Arlin has agreed to allow Nell to fill in for them next week.”

His mother’s eyes crinkled up at the corners. “You can rest easily with this one,” she told Arlin. “He’s a gut soohn.”

James felt a momentary unease. He didn’t feel like a good son. He’d left his family and his community to attend veterinary school and had little contact in the years that followed.

As if sensing his discomfort, his mother squeezed his arm. “He’s moved back into the area to be closer to us,” she said as she regarded him affectionately.

He did move to Lancaster to be close to his parents for he had missed his family greatly. The tension left him. Despite his past, he was determined that he would be a much better son and brother from this point forward.

Chapter Four

Monday morning, Nell steered her carriage down Old Philadelphia Pike toward Pierce Veterinary Clinic. She viewed the day with excitement. She’d learned a lot from just one day working with James. Imagine what she could learn in the next five!

When the clinic came into view, Nell felt a moment’s dread. Learning from James was a benefit of working with the clinic, but working with the man could cause her complications she didn’t need in her life. He was handsome and kind, but her attraction to him was wrong and forbidden.

Focus on what Dat said. Her father wanted her to marry. He’d find her a husband if she didn’t find one on her own.

Nell knew that she just had to remember that although James had an Amish family, he was an Englisher. She couldn’t allow herself to think of him as anything but her dog’s veterinarian—and this week, as her employer.

When she pulled her buggy up to the hitching post in the back, Nell was surprised to see James’s silver car parked near the back door. She’d arrived early. It was only seven thirty. She was sure she’d arrive before him and that she’d have to wait for him to show up.

She tied up Daisy, then went to ring the doorbell. Within seconds, the back door opened, revealing James Pierce dressed in a white shirt and jeans.

Nell stared and suddenly felt woozy. She swayed forward and put a hand out to catch herself on the door frame, but James reacted first by grabbing her arm to steady her. Seeing James looking so like Michael, her late beau, had stunned her.

“Nell?” he said with concern. “Are you all right?”

She inhaled deeply. “I’m fine.” Like James, Michael, an Englisher, had favored button-down shirts and blue jeans. She’d met him in a grocery store before she’d joined the church and still had the option of choosing an English or Amish life. She’d chosen a life with Michael but she’d never had the chance to tell him before he died.

James still held her arm, and she could feel the warmth of his touch on her skin below the short sleeve of her dress. “Are you sure you’re all right?”

Nell managed to smile. “I’m well. Danki.” She bit her lip. “Thank you,” she corrected.

James let go and gestured for her to come inside. “Is the day getting warm?”

“A little.” But the heat wasn’t to blame for her wooziness.

“Come on in. I’ll turn up the air conditioner so we’ll be comfortable.”

The impact of the man on her senses made her feel off-kilter. Nell blushed at her thoughts as she followed him into the procedure area. Fortunately, by the time James faced her, she had her feelings under control again.

“I’m glad you came,” he said. “We have a serious case today. Mrs. Rogan is on her way in with Boots. Her Lab’s eaten something—she’s not sure what, but she believes he has an intestinal blockage.”

“Ach, nay!” Nell breathed. “What will you do? Surgery?”

His handsome features were filled with concern. “I’ll do X-rays first to see if I can tell where the blockage is.”

“How can I help?”

He studied her intently. “Are you squeamish?”

She shook her head. “I don’t think so. Did I seem squeamish yesterday? If you’re worried that I’ll faint at the sight of Boots’s insides, don’t be. I was in the room when my mam gave birth to Charlie, my youngest sister.” She smiled slightly; the memory wasn’t the most pleasant. “No one else was home.”

He raised his eyebrows. “How old were you?” he asked.

“Nine.”

He jerked in surprise. “You were only nine when you helped your mother deliver?”

“Ja.” Nell’s features softened. “I was scared. I can’t say I wasn’t, but once Charlie was born, I felt as if God had given us this wonderful new life. Charlie doesn’t know that it wasn’t the midwife who helped bring her into the world.”

“Why not?”

“It’s not important. What is important is that she is a healthy, wonderful young woman of fifteen.”

She wondered if James was doing the math to realize that she was twenty-four. She saw him frown. Was he thinking that at the age of twenty-four most Amish women had husbands and at least one child, if not more?

“I’m glad you’re not squeamish,” he said. “Boots will be here any minute, and I’m going to need you by my side.”

Even though she knew she shouldn’t, Nell liked the sound of his words, of her and James working as a team.

* * *

After hearing Nell’s story about delivering her youngest sister, James quickly did the math and was relieved to know her age. Then he frowned. Why did he care how old Nell was? It shouldn’t matter as long as she did her job, which so far she’d been doing well. He wondered why Nell wasn’t married.

Or was she? He’d never thought to ask. To do so now would seem...intrusive. He feared there was a story there, and one he wasn’t about to ask her about.

James found he liked the thought of having her at his side while he did the surgery. And why wouldn’t he, when after only one day she already had proved her worth?

“I’ll be ready,” she said. “I’ll hand you the instruments you’ll need. Maybe you can show me what they are now before Boots arrives? I don’t want to hand you the wrong thing.”

“Certainly.” He moved toward the machine on the counter. There were several packaged sterile instruments in the cabinet above it. “This is an autoclave,” he explained, gesturing toward the machine. “I put certain metal instruments in here to sterilize them.”

She nodded. “What are those?” she asked of the two packets he’d taken from the cabinet shelf.

James proceeded to tell her what they were—a scalpel and clamps. Then he pulled out a tray of other types and sizes of the same instruments as well as others. “You don’t have to be concerned,” he said. “I’ll pull out everything I need, and then I’ll point to the instrument I want on the tray. You don’t have to know all the names, although I imagine you’ll learn a few as we use them.”

He had just finished explaining the tools when he heard a commotion in the front room. “Boots is here,” he announced. He was aware that Nell followed closely behind him as he went to greet the concerned woman and her chocolate Lab.

Nell helped him x-ray Boots while the dog’s nervous owner sat in the waiting room. It turned out that Boots had swallowed a sock. After James relayed his diagnosis to Mrs. Rogan, he and Nell went to work. He encouraged Mrs. Rogan to go home, but the woman refused to leave until she knew that her dog was out of surgery and in recovery.

“Do you have other patients scheduled this morning?” Nell asked as she watched him put Boots under anesthesia.

“Fortunately, no. Not until this afternoon.”

He readied his patient. “May I have a scalpel?” He gestured toward the appropriate instrument. He needn’t have bothered because Nell had already picked it up and handed it to him.

He smiled. “Perfect. Thanks.”

She inclined her head, and they went back to the serious task at hand. It took just under an hour from the time they sedated the Lab until the time he was moved to recovery.

James went out to talk with Mrs. Rogan with Nell following. “Boots made out fine. We removed the sock, and there’s been no permanent injury.”

Edith Rogan shuddered out a sigh. “Thank goodness.” She visibly relaxed as she glanced from him to Nell standing behind him. “Thank you. Thank you both.”

“Boots may have to spend the night here,” he said. “I’ll keep a close eye on him today. If he does well, then you can take him home this evening. I’ll call and let you know.”

At that moment, the door opened and Mr. Rogan rushed in. “How is he?” he asked his wife.

“Fine,” James said. “The surgery went well, but I’m afraid you may be one sock short.”

The man shifted his attention from his wife to James. “You’re Dr. Pierce?”

James nodded.

“Thank you, Dr. Pierce. Edith and I have grown very attached to him.”

“He’s our baby now that our children are married and on their own,” Edith said.

“I understand,” Nell said softly, surprising James. “I have a dog. I have several animals, in fact, and I would feel awful if anything ever happened to them.”

Mr. Rogan studied her with curiosity. “You’re Amish.”

“I am?” Nell’s brown gaze twinkled.

The man laughed. “Sorry. Sometimes I speak before I think.”

“Well, you’re right, Mr. Rogan. I am a member of the Amish church and community, and I had the privilege to work with Dr. Pierce during Boots’s surgery.” She paused. “He’s a beautiful dog.”

The man smiled. “That he is,” he said.

“Edith, it’s time for us to leave and let the doctor and his assistant get back to the business of saving lives and making our pets better.”

“I’ll call you later,” James said as the couple headed to the door.

“I’ll check on him often,” Nell added.

The Rogans left, and suddenly James was alone with Nell. He was proud of the way she’d handled herself with Boots’s owners, and he was pleased with how she’d assisted during Boots’s surgery.

He glanced at his watch to see how much time he had before his first afternoon appointment.

“A successful surgery calls for a special lunch.” He grinned. “Hoagies!”

She laughed. “Hoagies?”

“Sandwiches.”

“Ja, that sounds gut,” she said. “But I’ll be bringing in lunch for us tomorrow.”

“Sounds gut to me.” James smiled. “We should check on Boots again before I order lunch.”

After ensuring that the Lab was doing well, they ate lunch, then went back to work. The rest of the day occurred without any major incidents.

By the end of the afternoon, James was tired. When he glanced at Nell, he saw that she looked exhausted, as well.

“Time to call it quits,” he said.

She nodded and reached for the mop and bucket.

He stayed her hand. “We can clean up in the morning.” He eyed her with concern. “Are you all right?”

She blinked. “Ja, why wouldn’t I be?”

“You’ve been quiet.”

“Just thinking.”

“About?

“Boots.”

James smiled. “He’s doing well. I’m glad I called the Rogans. They’re happy to come for him. He’ll do fine as long as they keep him still, leave his collar on and give him his pain medicine on time.”

“And bring him back to see you on Tuesday,” Nell added.

“Yes.”

“Do you need me to do anything else before I leave?”

James shook his head. “No, go on home.” He paused and couldn’t help saying, “Be careful driving.”

She nodded and left. James was slow to follow, but he watched her through an opening in the window blinds. Once her buggy was no longer visible, he took one last look around the clinic to make sure everything was as it should be, then he left, locking up as he went.

As he slipped onto his car’s leather seats, he thought of Nell on the wooden seats in her buggy. He wondered how she’d react if she had the chance to ride in his car. There might be a time that he’d bring her home. He scowled. Probably not, because her time at the clinic was temporary, until Janie came back from vacation.

Nell was a fine assistant, he thought as he put the car in Reverse. She would manage fine until Janie’s return.

A dangerous thought entered his mind, but he pushed it firmly aside. He quickly buried a sudden longing for something—or someone—else in his life other than his work, which had been the most important thing to him for some time.

* * *

Nell answered the phone when James’s receptionist, Michelle, called into the office the next day. “Pierce Veterinary Clinic,” she greeted. “How may I help you?”

The woman on the other end sounded dismayed. “Hello? This is Michelle. Who is this?”

“Hallo, Michelle. It’s Nell. I’m helping James in the office until you or Janie returns.”

“That’s wonderful, Nell,” the woman said. “I was worried about him managing the office alone.” The two women chatted for several moments more, catching up, before breaking the connection. Nell went back to work, relieved that Michelle was glad to learn that she was filling in.

“Who was on the phone?” James asked as he came out to the front desk.

“It was Michelle. She and her son are feeling better, but now her husband and two daughters are sick.”

“I’m sorry to hear that. Was she surprised that you answered the phone?”

“Surprised but pleased. She’s been worried about you.” She and Michelle had become friendly since Nell’s first visit to the clinic.

James smiled. “I hope you told her to rest, recuperate and take care of her family.”

“I did.”

“Good.”

Nell glanced at the appointment book on the desk. “Boots Rogan is due any minute for his follow-up.”

“I want to check to make sure he hasn’t bled through his dressing,” James said.

Boots’s appointment went well, and the owner took him home to continue the dog’s recovery.

The afternoon went by quickly, and before they knew it, they’d seen the last appointment. But then an emergency call came in from Abram Peachy, a deacon in Nell’s church district. Their mare Buddy had been injured by another horse.

James grabbed his medical bag. “Nell, will you come?”

“Ja, of course I’ll come.” Nell locked the front door and turned off the lights before she hastened through the back door and met James at his car. She hurried toward the passenger side and hesitated, uncomfortable being in such close quarters with James. He was suddenly there by her side, opening the door for her.

Feeling his presence keenly, she quietly thanked him, then slid onto the passenger seat. She ran her fingers over the smooth leather as James turned the ignition. The interior of the car smelled wonderful.

“Which way do I go?” he asked as he glanced her way.

She blushed under his regard and forced her attention ahead. “Take a right out of the parking lot,” she told him.

As he followed her directions, Nell was overly aware how close they were in the confines of James’s car. Did he feel it too? The attraction between them? Charlotte was waiting outside for them as he drove close to the house. She hurried toward the vehicle as Nell and James climbed out of the car.

Her eyes widened and a look of relief passed over her features as she looked from James to Nell.

“What happened?” Nell asked.

“Something frightened Barney,” Charlotte said. “Joshua was getting Buddy out of her stall when Barney reared up and came down hard against her side.” She addressed James directly. “She’s suffered a large gash. Can you help her?”

“I’ll do what I can. Show me where you keep her.”

Charlotte led the way, and Nell followed them to the barn where they found Abram near Buddy’s stall.

Abram looked relieved to see them. “I put her back in her stall.”

James studied the horse. “Good. She’s in closed quarters.” He addressed Abram. “I may need your help to hold her steady as Nell and I ready her to stitch up the wound.”

“She’s a gentle soul, but she’s hurting bad,” Abram said after agreeing to James’s request.

Abram’s son Nate entered the building. “Can you help us for a minute?” James asked after a quick look in the young man’s direction. “Do you have any rope? We’ll need to secure it to the rafters and around Buddy to help keep her steady after I give her a sedative.”

“Ja,” Abram said. “Nate, will you get that length of rope from the tack room?”

Nate immediately obeyed then slipped inside the stall, being careful to skirt the animal until he reached the front right side. “Dat? You oll recht?” he asked.

“I’m fine. Be careful, soohn,” Abram warned as Nate came up on Buddy’s opposite side.

James grabbed the rope and with a toss of his arm, he threw one end over the rafter until it fell in equal lengths to the ground. “Nate, could you wrap this around Buddy? Abram, you don’t have a wench or pulley, do you?”

The man shook his head. “We’ll make do.”

He addressed Nell, “Would you get me a syringe and the bottle of anesthetic?”

Nell handed him the bottle and the needle.

He took it without looking at her. She could feel his concern for the animal. She’d seen different sides to the veterinarian over the past week, each more impressive than what she’d seen before.

His face was full of concentration as he inserted the needle. The animal jerked and kicked out, her hoof making contact with James’s shin. He grimaced, but that was the only sign that he’d been hurt. Nell worried about him when he continued as if the horse hadn’t clipped him.

He stood back. “We’ll have to wait a moment or so until the anesthetic takes effect.”

His eyes met Nell’s. She gazed back at him in sympathy, recognizing pain in his face. She wanted to take a look at his leg and help him, but she remained silent. It was clear that he didn’t want his injury to detract from helping Abram’s horse.

She felt a rush of something she didn’t want to feel. This man clearly loved animals as much as she did.

They waited for tense moments until the horse seemed to quiet. Nell looked at Abram. “It’s oll recht,” she said. She watched as he and Nate released their hold on the horse.

“You might want to leave,” James said. “This won’t be pleasant to watch.”

The two men left, leaving Nell alone with James. He met her gaze. “All set?”

“Ja,” she breathed, ready to do whatever he needed.

“Come around to this side. Bring my bag. I’ll tell you what I need.”

Nell watched while James worked on Buddy. He sutured the mare’s wounds, noting how gentle he was with the animal, soothing her with a soft voice.

After twenty minutes, James seemed satisfied that he’d done all he could for the horse.

“Nell, would you please see if you can find a container of antibiotic? I’d like Abram to give her a dose twice a day. He can sprinkle it on her food.”

Nell understood when she found the bottle and saw that the antibiotic was actually granules instead of pills.

Soon they were driving away from Abram’s farm, heading back toward the clinic. Nell caught James’s wince more than once as he drove, but she kept silent. She couldn’t offer to drive him since she didn’t know how and wouldn’t be allowed anyway because of the rules in the Ordnung.

James pulled into the parking lot and drove around to the back as usual. She saw him grimace as he climbed out, but she didn’t say anything as she followed him inside the building. James went into his office while she went right to work restocking his medical bag with the supplies he’d used at Abram’s. When she was done, she entered his office and confronted him.

“You hurt your leg,” she said. She swallowed hard. “May I see?”

He gazed at her a long moment, and she felt her face heat, but he finally nodded. Fortunately, the legs of his black slacks were loose. James gingerly pulled up his pants leg.

Nell gasped. His shin was swollen and severely bruised. She eyed the black-and-blue area with concern. “You should see a doctor,” she suggested softly.

“I’ll be fine,” he said sharply. She didn’t take offense for she knew he was hurting.

“I’ll get some ice,” she said and went into the kitchen.

When she returned, his head was tilted against the chair back, his eyes closed.

“James,” she whispered. His eyes flashed open. She held up the ice pack. “For your leg.”

“Thank you.” He shifted, straightening. His pants had fallen back to cover his injured leg. He tugged up the fabric again, and Nell bent to place the pack on his bruised skin.

“It looks sore,” she said with sympathy as she knelt to hold it in place.

James gave her a crooked smile. “A bit.”

She shook her head, trying not to be uncomfortable looking up at him from near his feet. “You should go to the emergency room—or a clinic.” She rose, and her gaze traveled around the room.

“What are you looking for?” James asked.

“Something to prop your leg up on so you can ice it properly.”

“No need.” He dropped his pant leg and rose. “It’s time to head out. I can ice it at home.”

Nell saw him wince as he moved, but she held her tongue. “I’ll check the reception area and make sure it’s locked up.”

“Okay.” He waited while she hurried out to the front room to lock up and retrieve her purse from under the desk. She took one last look around, then returned to where James waited near the back door.

“Thanks for your help today.”

Nell shrugged. “That’s what you pay me for.”

A tiny smile formed on his lips. “I guess I do.”

They headed outside together. James pulled the door shut behind them and made sure it was secure.

Nell saw that he held the ice pack and was glad. She became conscious of him beside her as she waited for him to turn. “I will see you on Wednesday?” she asked.

He hesitated. “Yes.”

“Is anything wrong?” she asked, sensing a shift in his mood.

James opened and closed his mouth, as if to answer but thought better of it. “It’s late.”

Nell experienced a burning in her stomach. “Ja. I should head home.” She turned away. Something was definitely bothering the man.

“See you in the morning, Nell.”

She paused but didn’t look back. She was afraid of what she’d see. “Ja, I’ll see you then.”

Then she hurried toward her buggy, feeling edgy and suddenly eager to be away and at home.

* * *

James watched Nell leave, then followed her buggy in his car until their paths split. He continued straight until he reached a small shopping center with a bakery, a candy shop and a small gift shop. He drove around to the back of the building, got out of his car and went in a back entrance that led to his apartment above the bakery.

As he started painfully up the stairs, he caught the scent of rich chocolate. Usually, he’d head into the bakery to buy whatever it was that Mattie Mast was making downstairs. But with his throbbing shin, the only thing he wanted to do right now was put ice on the injury.

The trek up the staircase was slow, and he stopped several times. He breathed a sigh of relief when he finally made it to the top.

His one-bedroom apartment was dark as he entered. He threw his keys onto the kitchen table and went to open a few windows to let in the day’s breeze. The delicious scent of baking was stronger upstairs than down.

He refilled his ice bag, then, ignoring his rumbling stomach, he plopped down onto the sofa in his small living room, turned on the TV and shifted to put his feet onto the couch. He carefully set the ice pack that Nell had made on his swollen leg. He gazed at the television, but his thoughts were elsewhere.

It was Tuesday. There was still the rest of the week to get through. Would the pain in his leg let up enough for him to leave his apartment in the morning?

Nell will be there. He would make sure he got to work. She was helping him out, and he needed to be there.

Stretched out on his sofa, he stared at the ceiling with the sound of the television a dull buzz in his ears.

The ice felt good against his swollen leg. James closed his eyes, and the day played out in his mind. Nell’s calming influence as she worked by his side. Their trip to the Amish farm, treating the mare. Nell’s assistance with Abram Peachy and his son Nate. Her calming way with their mare Buddy. His growing friendship with Nell.

He saw Nell clearly in his mind—her soft brown hair, bright brown eyes and warm smile. She’d worn a green dress with black apron today, with a white kapp, dark stockings and black shoes. He smiled. He wondered how she’d look at home when she was at ease, barefoot and laughing as she chased children about the yard, with sparkling eyes and her mouth curved upward in amusement.

James wondered how it would feel to spend time with her outside of the office.

His eyes flickered open as shock made him sit up. He was more than a little attracted to Nell Stoltzfus!

James shook his head. He had no right to think about Nell in that way. He scowled. She was a member of an Amish community, a community like the one he’d left of his own free will to choose a different path in life.

He forced his attention back to the television. He began to channel surf to find something—anything—that would consume his interest other than thoughts of Nell Stoltzfus.

* * *

Nell’s four sisters were in the yard when she returned home.

“We heard what happened!” Charlie said.

“At Abram’s,” Ellie explained.

“Nate said you were both wonderful. He said you worked efficiently and quietly by the veterinarian’s side,” Charlie added.

“Was it true that James got kicked by Buddy?” Meg asked.

Nell studied her sisters with amusement. “Do you want me to answer any of you, or would you prefer to provide the answers yourself?”

Leah, the only sister who hadn’t spoken yet, laughed. She was the next oldest after Nell. “How did it go?”

“Well,” Nell said. “It went well. James sutured Buddy and left her in Abram’s care.”

“Was it awful?” Charlie asked. “Seeing all that blood?”

“I felt bad for Buddy, but I was oll recht. I didn’t think much about anything but what I could do to help James.”

The sisters walked toward the house as it was nearing suppertime. There would be work in the kitchen as they helped their mother to prepare the meal.

“Only three days more, ja?” Leah asked when their sisters had gone ahead into the house.

Nell faced her sister as they stood on the front porch. “Ja, in a way I’ll be sad to see it end.”

“But ’tis for the better that it will.” Leah watched her carefully.

“Ja.” She leaned against the porch rail. “But until then, I’m learning so much. Things I’ll be able to use in helping our friends and neighbors. I know I can’t take the place of a veterinarian but I’ll be able to handle more than I could before.”

Leah regarded her silently. “What’s he like?”

“James?”

Her sister nodded. Her golden-blond hair, blue eyes and a warm smile made her the prettiest one of all of the sisters, at least in Nell’s eyes. Today, she wore a light blue dress which emphasized her eyes. On her head she wore a matching blue kerchief and she was barefoot. She had come from working in their vegetable garden.

“You saw him at the Masts’,” Nell reminded her.

“But seeing him isn’t working with him.”

For a moment, Nell got lost in her thoughts. “He’s a caring man who’s compassionate with animals. He’s a gut vet. You should have seen him with Buddy. He—” She bit her lip.

“He was injured today,” Leah said. “Nate stopped while you were gone. He said Buddy kicked him while he was trying to sedate her.”

“Ja, but you wouldn’t have known it by looking at him afterward. He worked as if nothing was bothering him when his leg must have hurt terribly.” Nell had been amazed—not only by his skill but by his attention to Abram’s mare.

“You like him.”

“I wouldn’t work for him if I didn’t like and respect him.”

“I know that, but I think you feel more for him.”

“Nay,” she denied quickly. “He’s gut at what he does, and I respect that.”

Leah nodded. As they entered the house, Nell wondered if her sister believed her.

She’d felt awful when she saw the extent of James’s injury. She’d been startlingly aware of him as she’d pressed the ice pack against his shin. The sudden rush of feeling as she’d held the pack against his masculine leg for those brief moments had frightened her. Caring for him in that way had felt too intimate. She’d risen quickly and searched for a chair or stool to prop up his leg. When James had declared that it was time to go home, she’d been relieved.

“Nell,” her mother greeted as she and Leah entered the kitchen. “I heard you had an eventful day.”

Nell nodded. “It was more eventful for Abram’s mare.”

“She’s all right?”

“Buddy’s fine. James stitched her up as gut as new. She’ll be in pain for a while, but he left Abram medication for her.”

“Gut. Gut,” Mam said. “Ellie, would you get the potato salad out of the refrigerator? Meg, you carry in the sweet and sour beans. Leah, would you mind getting your father? Supper is almost ready.”

“What about me?” Charlie said.

Her mother smiled. “You can set the table with Nell.”

Nell went to help her sister. She was home and felt less conflicted in this world she knew so well.

She might have imagined the strange tension between her and James. Tomorrow she’d put things in perspective and realize that the tenseness between them was just a figment of her imagination.

Chapter Five

Wednesday morning, Nell got up extra early to make her favorite contribution of potato salad for Aunt Katie’s quilting bee. By the time her mother and siblings had entered the kitchen, she had finished cleaning the dishes she’d used. She automatically started to pull out the ingredients for the cake and pie that she knew that her mother wanted to bring.

“You’re up early,” Leah said.

“Ja, I thought I’d take a look at Buddy this morning before I head to the clinic.”

“That’s a fine idea,” Mam said as she came into the room. “I’m sure Abram will appreciate it.”

Nell ate breakfast with her family, then stayed long enough to clean up before she got ready to leave. She ran upstairs to get her black shoes. When she was done, she hurried downstairs to the barnyard. She chose to take the family pony cart and hitched up Daisy before she headed toward Abram Peachy’s place.

She wondered what time James would arrive at the office this morning. Would she be able to reach him if Buddy suddenly needed additional medical care?

It was six thirty. She knew that Abram and his family most likely would be up and doing morning chores. No doubt Charlotte was already in the kitchen preparing food for this afternoon’s quilting gathering.

The weather was lovely. Nell appreciated the colors and scents of summer. A bird chirped as it flew across the road and landed in a tree. The trees and lawns were a lush verdant green, moist with the morning’s dew. There was no traffic on the roadway.

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