Evie waited until the maids placed the trays of food and drink on the small iron table in front of the bench. “Don’t bother to serve. I’ll take care of it.”
She handed Max a linen napkin and waited for him to arrange it before moving things around so she could place his plate directly in front of him. Beside the plate, she put a glass of iced lemonade before taking up her own glass.
“Mrs. Niedermeier makes the best lemonade I’ve ever tasted.”
Max picked up his glass and held it up. “To being ensnared.”
Evie tilted her head and raised a brow. “Do you really feel that way?”
“Well, I have to say that this falling in love has completely captured me in a way I did not expect, but as I indicated, I really don’t mind.” He smiled. “Not even a little.”
“I’m glad to hear that. Shall I bless the food?”
“By all means.”
Evie bowed her head. “Father, we thank You for this meal and ask Your blessing on the people of this household, my family, and Max. Thank You for bringing him into my life. Amen.”
“Amen. I might also thank God for bringing you into my life. I certainly didn’t anticipate it. My stepmother is always after me to find a wife of wealth and good report, but I refused, mostly because I didn’t want to please her.” He took a long drink of the lemonade. “This really is the best.”
“I told you so.” Evie sampled hers and nodded. “I need to learn how to make it.”
They ate in relative silence, simply enjoying the day and each other’s company. Evie had never known anyone outside of family who made her so comfortable. She felt almost giddy at the thought of him having sought God. His lack of relationship with Jesus had really been the only thing that gave her concern when considering her love for him. Now that wasgone, and she had no doubt Max would grow closer and closer to the Lord as time went on. Especially if she had anything to say about it.
“Max, I wonder if you would do something for me?”
“If I’m able. I am limited somewhat.”
She considered him and smiled. “Knowing you even as little as I do, I doubt you’re all that encumbered. Nevertheless, would you accompany me to our church tomorrow?”
“I’d be quite happy to do so. Your father already mentioned it, offering to have one of your carriages stop by to pick me up. I haven’t had use of my carriage since the fire.”
Evie should have known her father wouldn’t just pray with Max and leave him to wonder about what was next. “I’m glad Father thought of that. I’ll make sure I’m in the carriage that stops by for you.”
“That would please me very much.”
Evie felt as if her spirit soared on wings. Now if she could just get through telling her parents the truth about nursing, she would feel that everything was perfect.
18
Sharing church services with Max was everything Evie had hoped for. With Max sitting beside her in the middle of the pew with her family, there was no doubt that they were letting the world know they were a couple.
This had been even more clearly established after services when some of Evie’s friends had approached to be introduced. Evie had given Max a quick glance and smile, then shared with the others that he was her beau. If Max minded, he didn’t indicate it.
Mother had invited Max to join them for lunch, but he’d declined, explaining that he’d promised his father he would join him for the noon meal. Evie was slightly disappointed, but at the same time she figured perhaps her confession regarding nursing would be easier without Max there.
However, by the time the family sat down at the dining table, Evie was wishing he was there. Max gave her a certain sense of peace that she didn’t have on her own. Perhaps it was God’s way of strengthening their relationship. Whatever it was, it was absent, and Evie desperately needed it.
Dinner was served, and the general chaos that often accompanied family meals ensued. Everyone had something to say, and on Sunday luncheon, Father always encouraged discussion regarding the sermon.
Jared had no trouble getting things started. “So, Papa, the reverend said that God hates lies.”
“That’s right, Jared. He does.”
“Well ...” The boy paused, looking most perplexed. “Is it a lie if you know something, but you don’t tell anybody that you know it?”
“Do you mean like keeping a secret?” Father asked.
Evie felt her conscience pricked at this turn. She couldn’t imagine whatever Jared might be keeping secret, but she knew her own confession was enough to set everyone on their ear.
