The Baker's Tale (21 page)

It is best to have a loving heart, even if at times it is bruised and broken.

Ruby and Edwin are one in heart, one in mind, and one in soul. They are equal in everything that they do within their home. Meeting them for the first time, one might suppose that they are lovers only recently wed, such is the tenderness between them. Edwin's eyes brighten whenever Ruby's name is mentioned. She smiles when she hears his name. Each year that passes seems the happiest of their lives.

Even in the darkest nights of winter, their house is bright and merry. They read aloud to the children, the oldest of whom now reads aloud to his younger brother and sister.

Sometimes in the evening after they have put the children to bed, Ruby sits quietly and simply looks at Edwin. He is even more dear to her now than when she crossed the sea on her lonely
voyage to America. Edwin never lies down in bed at night without giving thanks that she is beside him. Through all of life's emotions, they are each other's most steadfast friend. What a treasure they have in one another.

For so many years, Ruby has filled my heart with happiness. I remember her as she was on the first day that she and Christopher stood outside my bakery. A tiny, hungry, ill-clothed child, shivering in the cold. I remember her as she grew older, learning to read and write, talking and laughing in Marie's home, in love with all about her.

Ruby and Edwin bring their children to the bakery to visit often. They are always welcome. Each time they come, I give the children bread with strawberry jam.