Chapter 19
1092 Words
EMBER
I savored another bite of the delicious food, grateful for the Troyers' warm hospitality. Mr. Troyer's suggestion to meet with community business owners had sparked excitement within me.
As I chewed, Elijah asked his eldest daughter, "Anne, why aren't you eating your food?"
I looked up to see Anne watching me intently. A pang of guilt struck my stomach. She was copying me.
I didn't want her to feel like she needed to restrict her eating because i was. I grabbed a big spoonful of potatoes and smiled at her.
"These potatoes are so good!" I said cheerfully, taking another big bite.
Anne smiled back and continued eating. I made sure to keep eating, ensuring she saw me enjoying my food.
Before I knew it, I finished the food on my plate. My stomach felt tight and full.
I glanced up to notice Anne had also finished her meal. A sense of relief washed over me, knowing I'd helped her feel more at ease.
Elijah’s eyes met mine for a moment “Good girl” Elijah said directed to Anne but I knew it was meant for my ears as well.
I shifted in my seat as I felt the arousal between my legs.
Mary's concern-filled expression brought me back to the present moment. "Ember, how is your mother doing?" she asked with genuine interest.
I hesitated, unsure how much to share. The Troyers had been incredibly kind, helping with yard work.
"She's...stable," I replied, choosing my words carefully. "But there is not much more they can do. We have a hospice nurse at the house most days"
Mary's expression softened further. "We're so sorry, Ember. We can only imagine how difficult this must be for you and your family."
I nodded, trying to hold back tears. "It's...hard. The doctors say her time is running out."
The room fell silent, with the Troyers offering comforting nods and sympathetic glances.
Mary placed a gentle hand on my shoulder. "We're here for you, Ember. We'll support you through this."
Benjamin added, "We've been praying for your mother's comfort and peace."
I smiled weakly, grateful for their kindness. "Thank you. That means everything."
Elijah's eyes met mine, filled with empathy. I felt a pang of appreciation for his understanding.
Lydia's eyes met mine, and she whispered something to Elijah. I strained to listen, but the words were indistinct. It sounded like she mentioned her mother, but I couldn't be sure.
Elijah nodded thoughtfully, his expression concerned. I wondered if his wife was unwell and Lydia was sharing news about her.
Lydia's whispered words had sparked a new question in my mind: where was Elijah's wife? Was she ill, or was there another reason for her absence?
Sarah, Elijah's sister, efficiently cleared the plates, while Mrs. Troyer headed to the counter, out of my sight.
Just as I was about to stand up, feeling full and satisfied, Mrs. Troyer returned with a slice of sugar cream pie in front of me. My eyes widened, and my heart swelled with gratitude.
"My favorite dessert!" I exclaimed, touched that she remembered.
Mrs. Troyer smiled warmly. "I knew you'd love it."
My mouth watered, but my stomach protested, still feeling tight from the earlier meal. I took a polite bite, and the sweetness exploded on my taste buds.
Almost moaning in delight, I tried to eat a few more bites before excusing myself to the bathroom, hoping to escape the discomfort.
As I stood up, Elijah's concerned eyes met mine. I gave him a little nod and walked away.
As I walked towards the bathroom, the wooden floor creaked beneath my feet. The air was thick with the scent of old wood and the faint hint of soap.
I pushed open the simple door, adorned with a hand-carved wooden doorknob. The bathroom was small, with a single window high above the door, casting a sliver of natural light.
The toilet, an old-fashioned-style commode, sat in the corner, its wooden seat worn smooth. A small sink, with a hand-pumped faucet, stood against one wall.
I approached the sink, running my hands under the cool water. The sound of the pump and the gentle gurgle of the water were soothing. Wondering if I should try to empty my stomach ridding it of its pain. Deciding against it hoping the pain would subside with my movements soon.
As I washed my hands, I gazed out the window, watching the sun set behind the rolling hills. The peaceful atmosphere calmed my mind.
As I re-entered the dining room, I saw that everyone had finished their dessert and was busy clearing the plates. I offered to help, "Would you like some help washing the dishes?"
But Mrs. Troyer gently declined, "No, Ember, you're our guest! Go relax in the sitting room with the others."
I smiled, feeling a bit guilty for not being able to help.
Mrs. Troyer insisted, “take a break and enjoy some company."
I nodded, feeling grateful for their kindness. "Thank you, Mrs. Troyer."
As I made my way to the sitting room, I noticed Elijah watching me with a warm smile. I felt a flutter in my chest, but quickly pushed the feeling aside.
The two little girls, Anne and Lydia , ran up to me, grabbing my hands and pulling me into the sitting room. They laughed and chattered excitedly, their bright eyes shining with anticipation.
"Ember, can you tell us a story?" they pleaded in unison, their small voices filled with longing.
I smiled, feeling my heart warm with affection. "Of course, my little friends," I said, settling into the comfortable armchair.
I smiled, recalling a story Elijah had told me when I was their age. "Let me tell you about the Legend of the Golden Sunflower," I began.
"In a field of tall sunflowers, one stood out. Its petals shone like gold in the sunlight. The farmer who tended the field believed this sunflower held a special secret.
One day, a young girl wandered into the field, searching for adventure. She found the Golden Sunflower and, as she reached out to touch it, she felt a strange sensation.
The sunflower spoke to her, sharing its wisdom: 'In the darkest moments, seek the light within yourself.' The girl returned home, carrying the sunflower's message with her."
The girls listened, entranced, their eyes wide with wonder.
"Did the sunflower really talk?" Lydia asked.
I smiled. "That's the magic of the story, my dear. Sometimes, the greatest wisdom comes from within."
The girls nodded thoughtfully, absorbing the tale.
- Writer
