On Her Own by Wanda E. Brunstetter

during one of his drunken stupors, she’d had mixed feelings. Greg had been harsh and abusive with her almost the whole time they were married. He’d gambled and drunk excessively and, as her agent, had forced her to do more performances than she had cared to. But Faith had been in love with Greg when they first got married, and he had been a decent father to Melinda. For that reason, Faith had grieved when he’d been killed. How grateful she was that God had brought Noah into her life and given her a second chance at being a godly wife and a good mother to her two precious children.
    “I spoke with Paul the other day, and he said he’s enjoying the work he does in Barbara’s harness shop,” Margaret said, pulling Faith’s reflections back to the present.
    Faith smiled. “That’s what he told Noah not long ago, too.”
    “Do you think it’ll be long before Barbara takes over the harness shop again?”
    “I don’t know, but I just may ask her.” Faith pointed out the window. “Looks like her daed’s rig pulling into your yard now.”
    “Well, I’ll let you go so you can visit with her before preaching service begins.” Margaret set her glass in the sink. “I should speak with Dan’s mother.”
    Faith gave Margaret’s arm a gentle squeeze. “I’ll see you at the work frolic next week.”
    “You can count on it.”
    Faith scurried out the back door and made it to Samuel’s buggy moments after he halted it near the barn. “It’s good to see you this morning,” she said as she helped Barbara climb down with the baby in her arms. The boys had already run off toward a group of children.
    Barbara smiled. “It feels good to be out again.”
    Faith held out her hands. “Mind if I hold the boppli? It’s been awhile since I had a newborn in my arms.”
    Barbara handed her son over to Faith. “I believe he’s put on a few pounds since you last saw him.”
    “That’s good.” Faith scrutinized Barbara. “Looks like you’ve gained some weight, too.”
    Barbara nodded. “I believe I have. My appetite’s slowly returning.”
    “Glad to hear it. How’s the depression?”
    “It comes and goes. But I’m sure it’ll be gone once I’m able to work in the harness shop again.”
    “How long do you think it will be before that happens?” Faith asked as they walked toward the house.
    “I’m hoping to work a few hours next week.”
    Faith’s eyebrows rose. “So soon?”
    Barbara shrugged. “I get bored sitting around the house.”
    Faith kissed the top of Davey’s head. “But you have this little guy to keep you busy. Not to mention your three active boys.” She motioned to the maple tree where the children awaited their turn on the swing.
    “I love caring for my kinner, but I also like working in the shop. Besides, somebody’s got to earn the money to support my brood.”
    “According to Noah, Paul’s managing the harness shop just fine.”
    “He probably is, but he won’t be here forever. I’m sure he’s anxious to return to Pennsylvania.” Barbara nibbled on her lower lip. “Until I’m working full-time, I doubt he’ll feel free to go.”
    “Shows what kind of man he is, don’t you think?” Faith took a seat in the rocking chair on the porch and rocked the baby.
    Barbara sat in the wicker chair next to her. “Paul seems conscientious and hardworking.”
    “Is that all?”
    “What are you getting at?”
    Faith tipped her head. “I merely wondered what you think of him as a man, that’s all.”
    “I just told you.”
    “Does he appeal to you?”
    Barbara’s mouth dropped open. “It’s not proper for a newly widowed woman to think such things, and you know it.”
    “Barbara, it’s been almost a year since David died. I’ve known several widows and widowers who married within the first year.”
    Barbara’s body stiffened. “I’m not looking for a husband.”
    “Maybe not. But I’m pretty sure there’s one looking for you.” Faith nodded toward Bishop Frey. “I