Grace's Forgiveness by Molly Jebber Read Free Book Online Page B

favorite color.”
    Grace darted her eyes to Mark. He stood and studied a black and white patchwork quilt. He could hear every word of this conversation. How should she handle this woman? She was certain Sarah wouldn’t approve of her attending Becca’s wedding. Neither would Mark. She had put herself and her parents at great risk. She and her parents would be shamed if the bishop found out. Mrs. Carrington’s blatant rude behavior about the quilt added to her headache. “No, I’m sorry. Are you positive there isn’t another quilt in the shop you’d like? As I said earlier, we could have a quilt like the one you want ready for you in about a week.”
    “My husband and I are passing through town on our way to visit friends. I must purchase a birthday gift for my friend. I need it today, and I want this one. Please do not be stubborn.”
    This woman was merciless. Grace had never met anyone quite like her. “Mrs. Carrington, I won’t change my mind. Please choose another quilt, and we’ll lower the price for your inconvenience.”
    Mrs. Carrington glared at Grace and slid on her gloves. She opened her mouth but shut it, swung open the door, and slammed it shut behind her.
    Mark winked. “You treated her with kindness. I couldn’t keep a straight face. The woman was determined to badger you until you agreed to her demand. You stood your ground and didn’t compromise your principles, which is very commendable. Good for you.”
    His words echoed and warmed her heart. Grace pressed a hand to her neck. “Poor Becca. She’s told me stories about how ruthless Mrs. Carrington’s actions were to separate her from Dr. Matt Carrington before they married. Becca claims she treats her like a dochder now, but she said Mrs. Carrington’s rudeness to folk not in her high society circle of friends embarrasses her when they’re out together. She obviously doesn’t hold us in high regard. Nonetheless, I didn’t like having to disappoint her.”
    Sarah waved a dismissive hand. “Don’t give her another thought.”
    Grace rolled her shoulders back. “You’re both correct. Danki for your support.”
    “Go visit Mark’s shop, and then we need to talk later.” Sarah gave her a stern look.
    “I won’t be long.” She stepped inside his store.
    Dreading her conversation about Becca with Sarah, she wondered if Mark would also want to speak to her about Becca. Maybe she should approach the subject first after perusing his store. She didn’t want any awkwardness to linger between them.
    Mark viewed the wall clock. “It’s time to open my store.” He slipped to the front door, turned the key, and flipped a neatly lettered wooden sign to OPEN and rejoined her.
    The finely crafted oak headboards and bed frames stacked along the wall caught her attention. The light-colored desk and spindle chair in the corner gleamed in the sunlight in front of the window. She studied the rocking horses, bread and potato boxes, cedar chests, and kitchen furniture. “Your work is exquisite. You’re quite talented.”
    The maple potato and bread boxes and pine carved trains, dogs, cats, rabbits, and X ’s and O ’s for tic-tac-toe were all arranged neatly in the store. She reached for a rabbit he’d carved and sat it upright in the palm of her hand. “I’m amazed at the detail you were able to create in the bunny’s big eyes, ears, little nose, and mouth. The Englischers’ kinner will love them. Everything you have is stunning.”
    “You’re too kind, Grace.” He reached for a carved doll the size of her hand, without a face, and pressed it in her palm. “This doll is for you.”
    Her breath caught. His slender fingers and the calloused skin on his hands warmed hers. “Danki, I love it.” No man, other than her daed, had ever given her a present. She would treasure the doll. The toy would remind her of him every time she beheld it.
    He slid his hand off hers. “I’m pleased you like the gift.”
    A tingle rose from her head to