Seasons of Sugarcreek 02. Spring's Renewal by Shelley Shepard Gray Page A

should plan to do some things together,” Judith said. “If you’re busy, no one will think you are wasting time.”
    “My mother, she didn’t mean to sound so harsh.”
    “Even if she didn’t, she still probably forgot what it was like to feel young, with the future at her fingertips,” Judith replied. “It’s up to us to make sure we don’t let these days pass us by.”
    Clara didn’t know if she’d ever felt like her future was wide open. Ever since her accident, she’d been so grateful for her blessings that she’d never felt easy about asking for more.
    But that said, she would look forward to deepening her friendship with Judith. “I would like to plan some activities with you, if you can spare the time.”
    “Of course I can.”
    Gretta glanced at the two of them and grinned. “You two have a look about you that I recognize.”
    “And what is that?” Judith asked saucily.
    “Like you’re feeling restless. That’s how I was feeling in January.”
    “And here it is April already.”
    Gretta ignored Judith’s sarcasm. “I know, I know. I sound like I have much to learn. But I also have learned a lot. Joshua and I had quite a time before we reached our agreement.”
    “I’m surprised to hear that,” Clara admitted. “To me, you and Joshua were always so close.”
    “We had some growing pains. But in the end, we worked everything out. I’m sure you both will find your way as well.”
    “If I have a need to find my way,” Judith said sharply.
    Clara busied herself by putting the leftovers neatly away into the crockery sitting on the counter. The chore kept her hands busy while her mind played over Gretta’s statements.
    Judith was as opinionated and confident as ever. Clara had a feeling that nothing Gretta was saying would have much of an effect on her. That, Clara supposed, was the consequence of growing up feeling sure of yourself.
    She, of course, had had just the opposite type of experiences. The idea that her future wasn’t decided was an intriguing one.
    When Tim walked into the kitchen, all three girls stilled. “Tim, did you need something?” Judith asked.
    “Perhaps. I was wondering if Clara would like to go for a short walk.”
    While Gretta simply smiled, Judith looked her way. “Would you?”
    “Sure.”
    Something akin to relief flashed in his eyes. “You’ll probably want your cape or shawl. After you get it, will you meet me on the front porch?”
    Clara nodded. “I’ll hurry.”
    “No need. I’ll wait.”
    When he left them, Judith winked. “I am beginning to think you will not need much of my company after all. You’re going to be plenty busy with my cousin.”
    “I don’t know about that. He’s just being nice.”
    “Nice and friendly,” Gretta agreed, her eyes twinkling. “Well, you better go get your cloak and meet Tim. Even though he says he won’t mind waiting, I have a feeling he just might be anxious for you to join him.”
    Helplessly, Clara looked around the kitchen. The dishes were only half washed and put away. Two pots still needed to be scrubbed. “The kitchen—”
    “I’ll call on Carrie to help,” Judith said. “You’re our guest. Go now.”
    Fearing that any more protestations would only exaggerate the situation, Clara nodded and left.
    Without a word, she crossed through the dining room and right by the front parlor where her mother was looking at quilt designs with Mrs. Graber.
    Her mother looked up. “Clara, what are you doing?”
    She grabbed her cloak and slipped it around her shoulders. “I’m going for a walk.”
    “Right now? Why? And with whom?”
    “I’ll be back soon,” she replied, not answering a single one of the mother’s questions on purpose.
    When she stepped out onto the porch, the cool breeze felt like nature’s welcome. So did Tim’s smile.

Chapter 7
     
    “Is there somewhere you especially like to walk in the evenings after supper?” Tim asked Clara as soon as they started down the