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“Hey, there’s electric in this jalopy.” She examined the metal clutch sticking out of the floor.
“Modern law requires us to use battery-operated lights for night travel. The English aren’t very respectful when it comes to sharing the roads and the lights offer protection. Shall we?”
She smiled and her enthusiasm to take a common carriage ride amused him.
He plucked up the worn leather reins. “Hold on.”
The carriage jostled and she swayed into his side. “Whoa.” She gripped his arm. “Don’t you guys believe in seat belts?”
He glanced at her and chuckled, directing the horses toward the back road.
“Right.” She chuckled. “Immortal.”
The steady clip-clop of horse hooves sped up as they got on their way. Fresh air mingled with her scent, creating a nice breeze as they picked up speed. Several horse-drawn vehicles traveled ahead, all moving in the same direction toward the Safe House.
They pulled behind a long line of carriages parked on the grass. “The bishop’s house is the church?”
“Every house is a house of God.” He secured the carriage and helped her down.
“Good day, Bredder Christian,” Elder Thaddeus Christner called.
“Good day to you.”
The first few months after a mating were a delicate time for couples and greatly respected by the members, especially in cases of new transitions. Brother Thaddeus did not greet or acknowledge Delilah’s presence, as the elder understood Christian would make a proper introduction when he was ready for other members of The Order to address her.
“Who was that dude?”
“Elder Thaddeus Christner. He’s the maternal grandfather of your Hartzler friends. Sister Abilene is his daughter.”
“It’s crazy how none of you guys look older than thirty.”
They walked toward the old colonial, following a dawdling line of females who watched them pass.
“Everyone’s staring at us.”
He took Delilah’s hand. “They’re curious and anxious to meet you, that’s all.” A tremor of insecurity rippled from her. “You’ll be fine, pintura. I’ll be by your side for most of the day.”
“Most?”
“During service, I’m required to sit up front with the elders.”
“What?” She stopped walking. “You’re leaving me?”
He urged her to keep moving. “We’ll be in the same room.”
Another wave of insecurity passed, this one spiced with a touch of irritation. He supposed her separation anxiety was a positive sign that their bond was solidifying.
The main room of the house flooded with natural light. Hats covered every free surface as bodies crammed together in long rows of benches, making the air warm and stuffy. He led her to the right where only females sat.
“This is where you will sit.”
She looked out at the sea of bonnets and hesitated. I can’t believe you’re abandoning me.
I’ll be right over there. He pointed toward the front of the room, but she only scowled. Go on. Be brave.
She took a seat on the bench and squirmed, her thoughts cataloging every detail as she mentally complained about the lack of cushions on the backless pews.
He thought to remind her she was projecting her musings but did not wish to add to her stress. Bending to kiss her cheek, he whispered, “I have to meet with the elders in the back. I’ll return soon. I’ll be sitting right over there, in the front.”
She caught his sleeve. “What if they expect me to do something?”
“No one expects you to do anything but listen quietly. The service will be said in mostly High German.”
“Sounds thrilling,” she grumbled, and he hid a smile, coming to enjoy her dry wit.
He glanced at the surrounding females. The female to your right is Magdalene.
She instantly turned with interest. Dane’s Magdalene?
He nodded. “Sister Magdalene, this is my mate, Delilah.”
The young girl smiled. “How lovely. You can call me Maggie.”
He stepped away just as Delilah said, “Hi. I have no idea what I’m doing here.”
Magdalene was a personable female who would put her at ease.
After briefly meeting with the elders in the back, Christian returned to the main room. The Order opened with a hymn, and Delilah’s wide-eyed stare looked from side to side. His mouth pressed tight, hiding a smile. Her thoughts were shooting off like fireflies.
This is what you guys call singing? They sound like the oh-Eee-oh monkey soldiers in the Wizard of Oz.
I do not understand that reference, pintura, but try to quiet your mind and be respectful.
She frowned as some of the females dabbed their eyes with handkerchiefs, the high German hymn carrying much emotion for many of the parishioners.
Opening the book of scriptures, he stood and delivered a reading. When he finished, a traveling creek rolled through the room as everyone kneeled. Delilah did a double take and then moved to her knees. Silence followed.
What are they doing?
Praying.
She watched the others curiously. Don’t you guys believe in cushions? This floor’s killing my knees.
Try to focus, pintura.
On what? Nothing’s happening.
Just be still.
She mentally scoffed. I have the attention span of a fly and the energy of a bunny. I don’t know how to be still.
