Rebecca's Bouquet Read Free Page B

Mamma’s. Mary Sommer’s soft voice shook with emotion. “This is the first time you’ve left us. But you’re strong.”
    Rebecca squeezed her eyes closed for several heartbeats.
    As if to reassure herself, her mother went on. “We hope Daniel recovers quickly. William needs you. In the meantime, God will keep both of you in His hands. Don’t forget that. Always pray. And remember what we’ve taught you. Everything you’ve learned in church.”
    â€œJah.”
    â€œIt’s never been a secret that God gave you a special gift for accepting challenges. I’ll never forget the time you jumped into that creek to save your brother. You pulled him to shore.”
    Rebecca grinned. “I remember.”
    â€œRumspringa might be the most important time in your life. But be very careful. There will be temptations in the English world. In fact, the bishop is concerned that you will decide against joining the Amish church.”
    â€œI know who I am.”
    A tear rolled down Mamma’s cheek while she slipped something small and soft between Rebecca’s palms. Rebecca glanced down at the crocheted cover.
    â€œI put together this scripture book to help you while you’re away, Rebecca. When you have doubts or fears, read it. The good words will comfort and give you strength. You can even share them with Beth. She’s going through a difficult time. Your daed and I will pray for you every day.” She paused. “Lend Daniel your support. The bishop wants you to set three additional goals and accomplish them while you’re gone. Give them careful consideration. They must be unselfish and important. Doing this will make your mission even more significant.”
    After a lengthy silence, William addressed the Sommers in a reassuring voice. “I’ll take good care of her. You can be sure of that.”
    Rebecca’s dad raised his chin and directed his attention to William. “We expect nothing less.”
    Long, tense moments passed while her father and William locked gazes. Several heartbeats later, Eli Sommer stepped forward. “I don’t approve of my Becca going so far away. I’m holding you responsible for her, William. If anything happens . . .”
    William darted an unsure glance at Rebecca before responding. “I understand your concern. That’s why I didn’t encourage her to come.”
    Rebecca raised her chin and regarded both of them. “I’ve given this a lot of thought. I’ll go. And I’ll come back, safe and sound.”
    Rebecca listened with dread as her father continued making his case. She knew William wouldn’t talk back. And she wasn’t about to change her mind about going.
    â€œDaed, it’s my decision. Please don’t worry.”
    Before he could argue, she threw her arms around him and gave him a tight, reassuring hug. After she stepped away, William motioned toward the black Cadillac. As Rebecca drew a deep breath, her knees trembled, and her heart pounded like a jackhammer. Finally, she forced her jellylike legs to move. She didn’t turn around as William opened her door.
    Before stepping inside, Rebecca put Mamma’s scripture book inside the hope chest. William took the box from her and placed it in the middle of the backseat. Rebecca brought very little with her. Just one small suitcase that her father placed in the trunk.
    With great hesitation, she waved good-bye. She forced a confident smile, but her entire body shook. She sat very still as Daniel’s second cousin, Ethan, backed the car out of the drive. Gravel crunched under the tires. This wasn’t Rebecca’s first ride in an automobile. Car rides were not uncommon in the Amish community.
    Trying to convince herself she was doing the right thing, she gently pushed the down arrow by her door handle, and the window opened. Rebecca turned in her seat and waved until the sad faces of her family, their