Miriam's Secret by Jerry S. Eicher

his farm.”
    â€œThat’s interesting,” he said.
    He didn’t sound too impressed, Shirley thought. But then a “little” farm probably wasn’t much in his world. Shirley went on, “It’s complicated and the family is all talking about it. I slipped out to call you.”
    Jonas didn’t hesitate. “I’m glad you did, but we have to develop a better communication system. In the first place, I’m the one who should be calling you.”
    Shirley heard the pleasure in his voice and forced herself to breathe. “There’s only this phone to call you with. And I can’t stay here very long…much less wait here. In fact, I should already be going back.”
    â€œMaybe we can use carrier pigeons?” he teased.
    Shirley laughed. “We don’t have carrier pigeons. I’m just an Amish girl, you know. Difficult communication is how we live.”
    â€œI was joking,” Jonas said. “You know my parents used to be Amish way back when, even before I was born. I wouldn’t say I’d want to live like that, but you obviously like it.”
    Shirley tried to calm the racing of her heart. She didn’t know what to say so she settled for “It’s okay, I guess—if I can call you once in a while.”
    Jonas laughed. “I have no problem with that. I enjoy your calls. Probably more than you do!”
    On that you’re very wrong , Shirley almost said, but that would be inappropriate. She replied instead, “You’re very kind. Thank you.”
    She could almost feel his smile over the phone.
    â€œYou don’t have to flatter me, Shirley, but you’re welcome. So tell me, what are you doing tonight?”
    Shirley’s mind whirled. At the Yoder house, Saturday night was a time to wind down for the week, clean up, read a book perhaps, and go to bed early. Except when one was on rumspringa , as she was. Was this the opening she was hoping for…to see if he’d come and get her? Shirley gathered her courage. “Not much, really. What are your plans?”
    â€œI have a movie I should watch.” There was a long pause.
    Shirley clutched the receiver. “That’s nice.”
    â€œYou should come watch it with me.”
    Shirley tried to speak but nothing came out.
    â€œOf course, I understand if you won’t. Just sayin’.” His laugh was nervous. “I know you don’t watch movies.”
    â€œI…” Shirley managed. “I’d love to, but…” Here was her chance! Should she accept? Not really—yet, she must! How else would she get to see more of him?
    â€œMaybe some other time?” He sounded hopeful.
    â€œNo!” The word came out a shriek, but Shirley rushed on. “If you’ll pick me up, I’ll come today! I’d love to come.”
    â€œReally?” He sounded skeptical.
    Had she said too much? Her fingers were numb from clinging to the receiver so hard. If Jonas ran fast in the other direction, she wouldn’t blame him in the least. He didn’t need Amish girls who clung to his every word.
    Her silence didn’t seem to bother him. “What if your father chases me off?”
    So that’s what he was worried about. Shirley almost smiled. She managed to answer in a calm voice. “I’ll tell my parents you’re coming, and I’ll meet you at the end of the lane. There won’t be any trouble. I am on rumspringa , after all.” That wasn’t all true, but it was true in part. Mamm and Daett would have to accept her decision, just like they had to accept Miriam’s decision to give them Mr. Bland’s farm.
    â€œSee you at seven then.” His voice sent a thrill through her.
    â€œI have to go now.” Shirley hung up the receiver and turned to race down the road and across the field again. By this time someone would have missed her, and they’d be on the lookout. She’d have to