Sisters by the Sea, page 24
She moved toward the seating area near the concessions but saw no sign of Lucas behind the counter.
Where is he? Lucas should be working here today.
As she turned to face the building where the restrooms were, she felt a tap on her shoulder.
“Boo.”
Francine jolted, and it felt like her stomach did a somersault as she whirled around to face the culprit. Sure enough, it was Lucas, smirking at his success.
“Looks like I got you.”
“Not funny, Lucas.”
“You’re smiling, so it must be funny.”
“I’m smiling out of disgust.” Francine’s snickers gave way to laughter.
He laughed along with her, but when it dwindled, his mouth drew a line. “I guess we should talk. I’ve got time.”
“That’s why I’m here.”
“Well, and to soak up the rest of the daylight.” Lucas looked to where Francine clutched the strap of her tote. “Hey, your nail polish is gone.”
“Yeah, it was not easy to remove. I went back to the nail technician and had my fingers covered in foil. It’s a lengthy process.”
They carried on their small talk as they walked to the beach. People no longer cluttered the sandy terrain, which made sense given that spring break was over. Lucas glanced at his feet, submerged in seafoam, as they stood at the water’s edge. He raised his gaze to meet Francine’s.
“Francine, I should have told you about the bet. I wish I hadn’t agreed to it in the first place. I held back from telling you because I was embarrassed and afraid you wouldn’t want to see me anymore. I reasoned with myself that ending the bet would’ve been enough, but I knew better. I hid it from you to cover my hide. I’m sorry for agreeing to that bet and for not telling you. I’m sorry for everything.”
“I forgive you, Lucas,” Francine replied in a low-pitched voice. “When I was with Matthew, I thought it was good I didn’t venture out before joining the church. While part of me believes that to be true, I’m glad I did. Now that I’m clearheaded, I have no reservations about formally joining my Amish community.”
Along with a stern lip twist, Lucas tousled his hair. “So that means we’re done.”
“I’m sorry. I don’t want you to change for me. That should be on your own accord, and I don’t want to pressure you into becoming Amish because of my decision.” She gulped as the back of her throat began to ache. “And I realized that getting married is not necessary for me to be committed. If marriage is meant for me, it will happen. I’m not sure whether you agree with this, but if you want to stay friends, that’s fine with me. I’ve enjoyed having you in my life, Lucas, even if only for a little while.”
He rubbed his stubble and raised his chin toward the amber hue of the sky above them. “I’m not going to lie. I was worried you’d say that. Although my outlook on religion has shifted, I’m not committed to it yet. So I get your intention of ending things. It’s ironic that I agreed to persuade you to change your ways, but it was my life that changed. You’ve taught me how to value simplicity. And because of your love and dedication to your faith, you paved the way for me to find Christ. I’m not sure I could have done it without you.”
Tears streamed down her cheeks. Francine knew in her heart that his words were sincere, and she couldn’t have been happier for him.
He spread his arms. “No hard feelings, Francine.”
She walked over to Lucas after wiping her cheek with the sleeve of her dress and embraced him. For a split second, she thought how similar it was to ending her relationship with Matthew. Yet this experience was filled with relief rather than sorrow.
Lucas patted her back. “I do kind of wish I could be Amish. I’m sure it’s easier to stay committed with your kind of life.”
With a headshake, Francine pulled away. “It makes no difference where you come from. We all have baggage, and it can influence us to make decisions that affect people for better or worse.”
“You’re right. Thanks, Francine. Would you mind aiding me on my spiritual journey for the remainder of your vacation?”
“I’d be delighted to.”
She and Lucas rested on the sand and watched the horizon. Francine delved inside her tote for some tissues to properly wipe her face.
I now know why I was led to come to Sarasota. I wasn’t drawn to Lucas to be with him, but to point him to You.
“Fran?”
Lucas assumed that one of Francine’s in-laws stood behind them. When Lucas turned to face the voice, he didn’t recognize him. The young man wore a button-up shirt, suspenders, and slacks. It all clicked when Francine said his name.
“Matthew?” She leapt to her feet and wiped the sand off her dress. “What are you doing here?”
“I came to see you. I would’ve called, but I needed to talk with you in person. Leora told me you would be at Lido, so I got a ride over here.” Matthew fixed his eyes on Lucas, his shoulders curving. “I suppose what Allison said was true. You really are seeing someone else.”
“No, no. Matthew, is it? We’re just friends. I mean, we were dating, but it was only on a casual basis,” Lucas spoke up.
“And you are?” Matthew stood up straight and wrapped his thumb around a suspender.
“Lucas. Lucas Hayes.” He gave Matthew a firm handshake. “I’ve been able to improve my life thanks to Francine. She has been sharing things from the Bible with me and helping me give my life to Jesus.” With a wink, Lucas turned to face Francine. “That and sand dollars.”
After breaking off the handshake, Matthew looked at her. “We should talk privately.”
Matthew started to leave, but Francine didn’t budge. Her hazel eyes trailed to Lucas.
“Go on ahead, Francine. It’s okay.”
With a nod, Francine’s lips formed into a “thank you,” and she followed Matthew across the sand.
Because Lucas harbored romantic feelings for Francine, seeing her walk away was bittersweet. Yet he knew those feelings were fleeting. Beyond them, he felt a more profound emotion. He had an actual connection with Francine and didn’t feel the need to suppress his interests in front of her. It made him wonder about Barry and how their disagreement would affect his relations with the rest of the group.
If they all side with Barry, it’ll be okay. I can always find people who will get to know me on a personal level. Just like Francine.
Francine’s light purple dress billowed in the breeze, fading farther from view.
I still need to work through my issues before pursuing another relationship. I’m hoping I can find someone who is as devout as Francine and that I’ll be strong in my faith too.
Francine’s mind raced miles a minute as she and Matthew wandered along the beach. She was at a loss for words, and Matthew was silent as well. Her heartbeat quickened, and she decided to end their awkward silence.
“This place is nice, isn’t it? All this scenery to bask in, and most days sure are comfortable. It’s breathtaking, even on rainy days.” Francine pushed out a laugh, hoping not to sound uncomfortable.
“Jah, it’s schtraahllich, almost out of a dream.” He smiled and stroked his throat. “Fran, I came here to tell you that I’ve been thinking about certain decisions since February. And I wanted you to know that I’m not leaving Middlebury.”
Francine halted, her jaw hanging open. “What about you becoming a missionary?”
“I believed that I had a calling to the ministry. Given that I’d led people before, it felt natural. But it seemed like I drifted further away from what was meant for my life during our time apart. I knew there was a reason our break-up didn’t sit well. Now I regret ever doing it. I haven’t stopped loving you, Francine. Even if you don’t want to get back together, I would still stay in our community. I’ve realized that I belong in the Amish community and want to be a part of it.”
“I never wanted you to feel obligated to stay because of me. If you feel compelled to minister, you should do so.”
He shook his head. “I don’t have to leave our community to minister to people. As long as I’m guiding someone to Christ, I’m doing what’s intended for me.” Matthew brought his hand to her upper arm. “I’m sorry for ruining our relationship by not recognizing all this sooner.”
“Sometimes we have to get off the path to remember why we need to keep following it. Regardless of how hard it was to be apart, I’m grateful we had the chance to figure out exactly where we needed to go.” Francine clasped Matthew’s hand and intertwined her fingers with his. “I don’t think our relationship is ruined, Matthew. It only needs to be stitched together.”
“I’m glad. Very glad.” As he leaned closer, his eyes shimmered.
Francine missed getting lost in his coffee-colored gaze. She felt Matthew’s lips faintly brushing against hers. She closed the gap and instinctively wrapped her arms around him, her eyes closing in the intimacy of the moment.
Likewise, Matthew. That chilly evening, breaking up seemed wrong. But right now, this is everything I’ve ever wanted. Regardless of my decision to join the church without marrying, I have you again and have a greater sense that you are the person I am meant to be with. Tears trickled down, and Francine ran her fingers along the side of Matthew’s face. I’m grateful that God has given me this life. I’ll make an effort to avoid taking it for granted.
Chapter 12
Sarasota
Lucas awoke to his phone’s alarm, realizing he had pressed the snooze button thirty minutes past when he needed to wake up. He sprang out of bed and grabbed his jeans from the floor. He hopped on one leg, attempting to worm his other leg inside the jeans.
Lucas prepared to drive over to the charter bus pickup in Pinecraft. Francine and Matthew were heading back to Indiana in the next hour or so, and he didn’t want to miss saying goodbye.
After getting dressed, Lucas glanced at his brand-new violin, now perched on the violin stand in the bedroom corner. Even if his new instrument wasn’t his ideal violin, he was nevertheless glad to have one. It was an extension of him, and without it he felt as if a piece of himself was missing.
He couldn’t help thinking about the instrument and how he’d used it the previous weekend. Lucas attended a community church near his apartment complex, and after Sunday service, he asked if they needed a violinist on the worship team. They were thrilled to have him on board, and he made his debut with the team at evening practice. Lucas looked forward to playing with the group the upcoming weekend.
As for Francine and Matthew, they had spent the last few days together in Sarasota. During that time, Lucas gave them plenty of space, seeing them once at St. Armand’s Circle. He was delighted to perform for Francine once more and hear her sing one last time.
He put on his sandals and patted his pockets to make sure he had his wallet and key ring. Sure hope I’ll make it to Pinecraft in time. Twisting the doorknob, he hurried out of his apartment.
Francine stood with Matthew at the charter bus pickup spot, located at the Pinecraft Tourist Church parking lot. Their bus had arrived, and other passengers began getting their luggage loaded. Francine had said her goodbyes to her family at Leora and John’s house. After a tearful goodbye, they had been dropped off at the church parking lot by Violet an hour ago.
It wasn’t raining, unlike the day she’d left Middlebury. The temperature was expected to hit eighty degrees, and the humidity swirled along her skin. Francine wished she didn’t have to return home yet. She did, however, anticipate seeing Grace and Allison and getting back to work with Geneva. Francine couldn’t wait to tell her parents that she and Matthew would be taking classes to join the church.
While Francine waited for Lucas to show up, she pressed a hand over her sternum. The bus passengers were already boarding, and it was only a matter of time before the motor coach would depart from the parking lot. Thankfully, she heard a familiar voice shouting her name. She whirled toward the voice. Lucas was sprinting over to them.
“Sorry for getting here at the last minute.” Lucas wiped the sweat from his brow.
“No worries, Lucas.” Francine scuffed her sandal on the pavement as she dug around in her tote. “Before I leave, I made something for you.”
Francine lifted something from her bag with care. It was a sand dollar, but it was strung up like a Christmas ornament. Glued on were six sand dollar doves, and the doves encircled some painted text. Francine had constructed the ornament a few days earlier to show her gratitude for Lucas’ friendship.
“I wrote the ‘Legend of the Sand Dollar’ on it. I am not as good at crafts as my sister Alana, but I gave it my all.”
“It’s wonderful, Francine.” He beamed. “Thank you.”
Francine gave Lucas a big hug. “Goodbye, Lucas. I’m going to miss you. Thank you for making my time here an adventure.”
“Me too. Feel free to visit me the next time you’re in Sarasota.”
“You are also welcome to come and see us.” Before releasing him, she gave him one last squeeze. “I’ll let you know when we arrive in Middlebury, all right?”
As Lucas smirked, his cheeks wrinkled. “Will do. I wish you both well and a safe trip home.”
Francine waved to Lucas and stepped onto the stairs, but she continued to observe Matthew and Lucas at the bottom. She leaned forward a little to hear them.
Matthew cleared his throat. “I appreciate you keeping an eye on Francine during her stay.”
“She may have been the one watching out for me.” Lucas reached out and shook Matthew’s hand. “You’re with someone who is incredibly wonderful, so don’t take it lightly.”
“Bye, Lucas. And thank you.” Matthew tipped his straw hat before removing it.
Francine ascended the stairs of the bus. The toe of her sandal caught on the step and she stumbled, but Matthew propped her up and prevented her from falling. Francine seized the railing and hoisted herself up, thanking Matthew for breaking her fall.
Once seated, Francine buckled her seat belt and placed the tote bag by her feet. She turned her attention to the window. Lucas stood outside, holding up the sand dollar ornament by the string. She offered another wave to Lucas as the bus rolled out of the church parking lot.
So this is it. I’ll begin classes so that I can join the church, and I will be with the love of my life the entire way. Lucas found a church where he can express himself through music and is growing closer to God. Everything fell into place in the end. She leaned closer to Matthew. Do our plans transpire the way we expect them to? Sometimes, but not always. Having things not go according to plan is terrifying. It’s crucial that we put our trust in God to get us through when things don’t go our way. I will keep on praying about what the Lord has given me as He continues to guide me.
Matthew took hold of her hand. “Fran, I’m glad you’re back in my life. I appreciate you giving me another chance.”
She closed her eyes as her heartbeat picked up. Images of their two years together drifted through her mind. She absorbed Matthew’s essence, gentleness, and nurturing temperament and was relieved that there was no longer any uncertainty. What rolled off her tongue came naturally and without hesitation.
“I love you, Matthew. I am fortunate to have you by my side with our future ahead of us.”
Francine’s Avocado Potato Salad
INGREDIENTS
6 potatoes
Sprinkle of salt
4 small avocados
½ cup egg-free mayonnaise
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
6 dill pickles
4 slices diced shallot
2 cloves garlic, minced
Pinch of salt
Pinch of pepper
2 tablespoons dried dill
Pinch of dried basil
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Pinch of Xylitol or other sweetener
Paprika
Chives
Peel potatoes and cut into small pieces. Bring salted water to a boil in large pan. Add potatoes to boiling water and turn burner down to medium heat. Cook potatoes 18 minutes or until soft. Strain potatoes and cool in refrigerator.
Cut avocados into small slices and place in medium bowl. Add mayonnaise and mustard and mix. Slice pickles and shallots and add to bowl. Add garlic, salt, pepper, dill, and basil. Remove potatoes from refrigerator and add to bowl. Add olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and Xylitol, then mix. Garnish with paprika and chives. Serves four to five people.
Richelle Brunstetter lives in the Pacific Northwest and developed a desire to write when she took creative writing in high school. After enrolling in college classes, her overall experience enticed her to become a writer, and she wants to implement what she has learned into her stories. Just starting her writing career, Richelle’s first published story appears in The Beloved Christmas Quilt beside the writings of her grandmother, Wanda E. Brunstetter, and her mother, Jean. Richelle enjoys traveling, her favorite destination being Kauai, Hawaii.
A Sarasota Sunset
LORINE BRUNSTETTER VAN CORBACH
Chapter 1
The bus lurched, and Alana Lambright woke with a start. Her heart pounded from the unexpected jolt. Swiping her hand across her face and adjusting herself in the seat, she struggled to be fully awake. She’d been dreaming again. Taking a few deep breaths, Alana began to ponder. The frustrating thing about the dream was that it dealt with an event that really happened and one she was desperately trying to forget. If she was going to dream, why couldn’t it be about something pleasant? She vividly remembered the details. She could smell the tang of the sweat-soaked horse as she held tightly to his harness. Ben, her boyfriend, had gone around the side of the horse to check for a rock in the back, right hoof…
“Hold him tight,” Ben shouted. “I need to get a better look!”
