The Quilter's Daughter by Wanda E. Brunstetter Read Free Book Online Page A

who’s not quite eleven, can help with some things when she’s not in school.” Abby frowned, as another thought popped into her head. “It’s the quilt shop Mom needs help with the most.”
    The bell above the door jingled before Deborah could comment. “Guess I’d better see what that customer needs,” she said, motioning toward the front of the store.
    “And I think I’ll take the time to read Mom’s letter. I really want to see how she’s doing.”
    “Good idea.”
    Deborah moved toward the customer, and Abby hurried to her desk. She found the letter from her mother on top of the mail and quickly tore it open.
    Dear Abby,
    I went to the doctor yesterday, and he seemed concerned about the slight swelling I have in my legs.
    He told me to avoid salt and to stay off my feet as much as possible. Nancy’s here to help out, and Cousin Edna offered to come by a few days a week, so I’m sure everything at the house will be cared for. It’s the quilt shop I’m worried about. Since I’m not able to work there right now, I may have to close it down. Sure would hate to do that, though, since it’s doing so well. But I suppose if there’s no other way, I’ll have to accept it.
    I’m doing some better with the nausea now but still feeling drained of energy. Sure will be glad when I’m feeling better. It’s hard to do nothing but rest. You know me—always puttering around, and not happy unless I’ve got something constructive to do.
    Enough about me now. How are things going for you? I hope your quilt shop is doing well, and I’m looking forward to hearing from you soon. Tell that future son-inlaw of mine I said hello.
    Love,
Mom
    Abby dropped the letter to her desk and let her head fall forward. If the doctor had ordered Mom to rest more, and she was having some swelling in her legs, he must be concerned about her losing the baby. Ever since Abby had learned of her mother’s pregnancy, she’d been anxious. Now, she was more worried than ever.
    Am I being selfish staying here in Ohio when my mamm needs my help there? Even if it means closing my own shop, I feel I must go toPennsylvania and keep Mom’s shop open. She gave up one quilt shop when she moved from here; I can’t let her give up another. Abby’s fingers clenched as she thought about Lester, and how much she would miss him. It would be hard to be separated, but their relationship was strong, and she prayed he would understand.
    With her decision made, Abby went to speak with Lester’s mother. The woman she’d been waiting on had left the store, and Deborah now sat at one of the sewing machines, ready to begin a new quilt.
    She glanced up when Abby approached. “Is somethin’ troubling you, Abby? Your serious expression makes me think you have some concerns.”
    Abby swallowed past the lump in her throat. “I just read Mom’s letter, and she’s had some swelling in her legs, so the doctor advised her to get more rest. I fear she might lose the boppli if she doesn’t follow his orders.”
    Deborah shook her head. “Fannie’s no schoolgirl. She’ll be careful to do as the doctor says.”
    “But she might have to close the quilt shop.” Abby pursed her lips and drew in a deep breath. “I really ought to go and keep the place running for her.”
    “To Pennsylvania?”
    “Jah.”
    “What would you do about your shop here?”
    “I—I was hoping you might be able to take over for me. Maybe I could see if one of the ladies who does quilting for us could help you a few days a week.”
    “I could ask my sister, Clara. She still has two children in school, but they’re old enough to fend for themselves when she’s not at home.”
    “That would be wonderful if Clara’s in agreement.”
    “How soon do you plan to leave, and how long will you be gone?”
    “I’ll go as soon as possible and would probably stay until the boppli is born and Mom can manage on her own.”
    “I understand why you feel the need to go.” Deborah’s face