A Daughter's Quest (22 page)

“They’re tears of joy.” At her words, he knew he still had a lot to learn about her.

Hans picked up the reins and started the horses. They couldn’t get to the house soon enough for him. With one arm, he pulled her back to his side.

“Where are we going, Husband?”

Husband
. He liked the sound of that word. “We’re going home.”

“What do you mean?” Constance snuggled even closer.

“I have a surprise for you.”

She pulled away a little and looked up into his face. “We’re headed in the same direction as the Mitchell farm.”

“None of the family is left, so I bought it for us. You liked the view from the bluff.”

Constance sat up straight and stared at him. “But the house is such a mess.”

“It’s all right. We can fix it however you want.” Hans had to struggle to hide the smile that wanted to burst forth. He could hardly wait to see her reaction to what he and Jackson had accomplished.

When they were close enough to barely see the house, Constance’s gaze searched for it. “You cleaned up around the house, and there are two rocking chairs on the porch.” Her last word was almost a squeal.

Her hand on his arm tightened.
Wait until you see inside
. He stopped the horses and helped her down from the wagon. They hurried up onto the porch. He opened the door and swept her into his arms to carry her across the threshold.

After Hans set her on her feet, Constance turned in a complete circle. He enjoyed watching the play of emotions across her face as she saw the new floor with a braided rug Mary had given them and all the furniture that filled the room.

She turned toward him. “Oh, Hans, everything is beautiful. I can’t believe you did all of this and kept it as a surprise for me. I’ve never had a home this wonderful.”

She stood on tiptoes and pulled his face down toward hers. When their lips met, her kiss swept him away on a rising tide of love.

How thankful he was that Constance had come on her quest. It not only had led her to Iowa, but it had also settled her into his heart and now into the home where they would build a family surrounded by love.

To our wonderful God and to Gateway Church in Southlake, Texas, where He has planted James and me for this season in our life. Lord, You are doing an awesome thing, and Your vision is so far beyond our reach. Thank You for letting us be a part of the miracle You are performing in this place.

Every book I write is also dedicated to my precious husband, James Allen Dooley. You are always there for me. You love me, cherish me, protect me, and make me laugh. These last forty-two years have been an amazing ride. I never want to get off.

A note from the Author:

I love to hear from my readers! You may correspond with me by writing:

Lena Nelson Dooley
Author Relations
PO Box 721

    
Uhrichsville, OH 44683

LENA NELSON DOOLEY
lives in Texas with her husband, James. They are active in several ministries of their church. She speaks at retreats and conferences. Both she and James are interested in missions and have been on several mission trips. A full-time author and editor, Lena holds a BA in Speech and Drama. She has had several novels published by Heartsong Presents and two novella collections. Visit her Web site at
www.LenaNelsonDooley.com
.