Free A Promise of Hope by Amy Clipston Page B

obvious—he had lived through losing his own life partner, the person who was supposed to grow old with him as Peter was supposed to grow old with her.
    “I’m gut,” she whispered.
    He raised an eyebrow. “Really?”
    “No.” Her voice croaked, and she cleared her throat. “I’m a walking time bomb, and I feel like I’ll blow any moment.”
    He nodded. “I remember feeling that way. If you’re comfortable sharing, I’d be honored to listen without judgment.”
    “Danki.” She bit her lip and studied her glass, silently debating how much to share. Although she hadn’t felt comfortable sharing her feelings in the past, she suddenly felt the strength of his friendship and trusted him. “My situation is a little more complicated than yours. I found out Peter omitted some information about his past.”
    “I’m sorry, but I don’t understand.”
    Sarah explained how Luke had arrived from Ohio, proving that Peter in fact had family.
    Their food arrived, and Sarah continued her story while they ate.
    “Now I’m struggling with the realization that he lied to me,” she said in between bites of ham. “It’s made my grief so much deeper. I feel like my heart has been shredded. I don’t know what to do with the pain.”
    Norman sipped his water and shook his head. “I’m sorry you’re going through this. I don’t know how to help you, except to say Peter did love you. It was obvious just by looking in his eyes.”
    Sarah studied Norman and blinked. “My mamm said the same thing to me.”
    He gave a sad smile. “Knowing and believing that won’t take away the pain or the questions. But it may help you accept he’s gone, and you may never know the answers. Just hold onto the belief and faith in the love you shared, a love that created your zwillingbopplin.”
    Sarah stared into his brown eyes and nodded. Norman was a good friend—a generous Christian man. God had blessed her with so many wonderful people in her life.
    During the ride back to the bakery, Sarah lost herself in thought. Although Mamm and Norman had told her to hold onto the knowledge that her husband had loved her, their words didn’t offer her any comfort. Anger and grief still surged through her. She wanted to speak to Peter face-to-face and tell him how much his lies had hurt her.
    But she couldn’t talk to him ever again.
    Peter was dead. He was gone forever.
    Sarah forced herself to concentrate on the scenery despite the renewed grief soaking through her soul.
    “How was lunch?” Mamm asked as Sarah stepped through the door to the bakery.
    “Gut,” Sarah said, moving past her to the stove. “It was nice to get out of the bakery and talk for a while. Did Beth Anne finish another chocolate cake?”
    “Ya, she did.” Mamm sidled up beside her, her expression expectant. “Did you have a good talk at lunch?”
    “Ya.” Sarah moved to the sink. “He just wanted to see how I was doing. He remembers what it feels like to lose a spouse.” She washed her hands, careful to keep her expression nonchalant. She didn’t want to rehash the whole conversation for fear of crying again. She’d cried enough tears to last a lifetime.
    “I’m glad you have Norman to talk to. He’s the best one to share your feelings with during this difficult time. I’m glad he’s your friend. He’s a gut man and a gut father.” Mamm studied Sarah’s face. “You seem preoccupied, Sarah Rose. What’s on your mind?”
    “Nothing.” Sarah dried her hands and turned toward the counter. “I best get going on the next chocolate cake. I took a long lunch and need to get caught up.”
    “Liewe.” Mamm pulled her into a warm hug, then walked toward the front of the store.
    Sucking in a deep breath, Sarah prayed for strength and answers to the riddle of Peter’s life.

Funny Cake Pie
    Top of cake:
    1 cup sugar
    1/4 cup butter or lard (shortening)
    1/2 cup milk
    1 beaten egg
    1 cup flour
    1 tsp baking powder
    1/2 tsp vanilla
    Pinch of cinnamon
    Cream