Title: Christy Goes West Author: Jovonna Rose McGuire jorose@ravennaoutpouring.org Part/Chapter: 1 Summery: This starts after ‘The Road Home’ ends. Disclaimer: All rights of Catherine Marshall's "Christy" belong to the Marshall~ LeSourd family. I in no way, want to hurt anyone with this story; this is simply to make people laugh, cry and feel swoony! ;) Christy will live in the hearts and minds of fans forever. Part/chapter 1 Christy is standing between two men, one who her heart yearned for, but she couldn’t have. The other who wanted her, but she didn’t love. She stared at the ring aware of the silence ringing in the air, and everyone waiting for her answer. Tears began streaming down her face, *Oh what do I do?* she thought. She looked up at David, “I…. I… I am…sorry!” Christy stammered as she quickly handed the ring back to David and dashed for the mission house. David watched her stunned and everything else was forgotten as he stared in disbelief at Christy’s retreating back. He didn’t move even after Neil turned Charlie around and left. But only when Creed came up to him did he take his eyes off the mission house. “Don’t worry none, preacher. She’ll be all right, I reckon.” Creed said. David turned and looked at him seeing all the children still standing at the door of the schoolhouse. “Let’s get back to our lessons.” David said pulling himself together and heading to the schoolhouse. But he couldn’t help but glance back at the mission where Christy had run off to crying. *Oh! What a mess I got in myself this time! Why couldn’t she say ‘Yes.’ Why did Neil come?* David thought turning and looking back to where Neil had been only a few moments before. *Funny, I didn’t even hear him leave.* David shrugged his shoulders and headed up the schoolhouse steps. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~ Christy ran into the mission and up to her room where she threw herself on her bed and cried. *What am I going to do now? Why did Neil come? Why didn’t Margaret really die? Why did she even listen to me?* Miss Alice had been sitting at the dinning room table reading her Bible when the door was thrown open and slammed shut, omitting a crying Christy who ran upstairs and also slammed her bedroom door. *I wonder what that was about?* Miss Alice thought as she stood up from the table and proceeded to head up the stairs. *I better see if I can help her.* Miss Alice knocked on the door and when Christy didn’t answer she quietly opened the door. “Oh Miss Alice!” Christy said running into her arms, “I’m glad it’s you!” “What is troubling thee, Child?” Miss Alice asked as she closed the door and brought Christy over to the bed where they sat down. “David asked me to marry him again, and he bought me this beautiful ring and everything!” Christy sobbed, and once again was in Miss Alice’s comforting arms. “David has asked thee before and thee didn’t cry then.” Miss Alice said as she held Christy close. “I know! But I… I…” Christy stopped, *How do I tell Miss Alice that I am in love with Neil when he is married to her daughter?* Christy pulled away from her and wiped her eyes. “Thee what, Child?” Miss Alice said handing Christy a handkerchief. “Oh I don’t know!” Christy said blowing her nose. “Thee does not love him.” Miss Alice said. Christy’s quickly looked up, “How…how did you know?” “I have seen thee struggle with thine feelings for David for a long time.” Miss Alice said. Christy looked at her waiting for her to say more, but when she didn’t Christy said, “I think I would like to alone for a while, Miss Alice. I won’t be coming down for dinner, and I don’t want to see David.” “If that is thee wants.” Miss Alice said standing up and headed out the door. Christy racked her brained once the door was closed. *I can’t stay here any longer. Not with Margaret here. I won’t be able to stand seeing her in Neil’s arms! Well there is only one thing to do.* Christy got up and began packing her trunk and her bags. After she had most of her stuff packed she stopped and looked outside. *It’s dark out. I must have been busy for quiet some time!* She laid down on her bed, *I will only rest for one minute…* Part/Chapter: 2 The next morning Christy awoke with a start. She could hear Miss Alice talking to Ruby Mae, and David pounding on something. So she sat up and stretched. Then the events of the day before hit her and she started to cry. But she quickly pulled herself together and got dressed. *I really don’t want to see anyone this morning, but I haven’t eaten since breakfast yesterday! And I am hungry!* so Christy quietly opened the door and went downstairs. As she looked around she was glad to see there was no one there and quickly grabbed some bread and jam before heading back upstairs to finish packing. *Umm…* Christy thought as she took a bite of the bread and jam, *They sure don’t make stuff like this in Ashville. Oh well I have to go!* So Christy started packing with a determined look on her face. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~ As soon as Christy stuffed the last of her belongings into her valise there was a knock at her door. She quickly stood up, and quietly said, “Who is it?” “It’s only me, Child. I wanted to make sure thee was all right.” Miss Alice answered. “Come in.” Christy said as she bent back down to try to get her bag shut. Miss Alice opened the door and came in, “What are you doing?!” “I’m leaving, Miss Alice. I can’t stay here. I need to get a way from everything. So I am going back to Ashville.” Christy said still struggling to get her bag shut. “Christy, thee can’t just run away from your problems. Besides what about the children?” Christy looked at Miss Alice with sadness in her face, “I love the children, but I have to go. Please try to understand.” Miss Alice watched as Christy again turned her attention back to her bag, “Here let me help thee with that.” Miss Alice said. After a few seconds of struggling they finally got the bag shut, “Thank you, Miss Alice.” Christy said as she hugged her. “Well if thee is going away, I believe we should tell Dr. Ferrand, don’t you?” Miss Alice asked as they pulled away. “Oh! I forgot about that! What will he say?” Christy said exasperated. “Don’t worry Child, we will call him. I am sure it won’t be a problem. Thee has been working her for a while now, and I am sure it will be okay if thee goes home for a vacation.” Miss Alice said heading toward the door. “But Miss Alice,” Christy said looking at her feet, “I am leaving for good.” Miss Alice looked at her surprised, “Are thee sure that is what thee wants?” Christy nodded, “Well then we still must talk to Dr. Ferrand.” Christy nodded again and followed Miss Alice out the door and to the phone. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~ After Miss Alice got Dr. Ferrand’s permission for Christy to leave Christy asked, “How are we going to get my trunks to El Pano today? I’d rather not see David…” “I know, Child. I am sure I can figure something out, but I do think that thee should talk to David before thee leaves.” Miss Alice said. “Oh I know!” Christy began, “But I’d rather not do it right now. And what am I going to tell the children?” “Only thee knows what to say. They should be at the schoolhouse by now and you shouldn’t keep them waiting. I will walk over with you.” “Thank you so much, Miss Alice! I am really going to miss you!” Christy said giving Miss Alice a quick hug before trudging out the door. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~ “Good-morning children!” Christy said nervously. “I have something to announce.” She looked at Miss Alice who nodded her head with encouragement. Christy cleared her throat, “I have decided to leave Cutter Gap and go home.” Christy paused as she seen the looks of sadness in the children’s faces, “I might as well tell you that I may not be coming back at all. I love you all dearly, but I have to go.” Christy hurried behind her desk and said, “Now let’s open our history books to page 62. Bessie will you begin reading?” “Yes, um.” Bessie said ask she stood to her feet and began reading. Only then did Miss Alice take her leave and head to the Spencer’s for Jeb. Hoping he could help take Christy to El Pano. After Miss Alice had left and Bessie stopped reading the children began asking questions, “Why you be leaving teacher? Is it cause the preacher asked you to marry him? When are you leaving?” But the most heart wrenching question was Mountie who went up to her desk during recess and asked, “Don’t you love us no more?” Tears sprang to Christy’s eyes and she quickly wiped them away, “Of course I do Mountie.” She said putting the little girl on her lap, “I just need to get a way for a while. I will miss you very, very much. I love you.” Christy said hugging her, “And I will write to you, will you like that?” Mountie nodded her head. “Go on and go play now, okay?” Mountie scooted off her lap, but not before hugging her teacher one last time. Part/Chapter: 3 Miss Alice came in a few minutes after Mountie left and said, “I have good news! Jeb Spencer is going to take you to El Pano in a couple of hours!” “Good!” Christy said glancing up from grading papers. “I will be ready. I wonder what time the train leaves…?” “I spoke to Mr. Pentland just a few minutes ago and he said there should be a train at the depot at 4:00 o’clock. It will be late before thee gets to Ashville so thee might want to call thy parents.” Miss Alice said. “Yes, I’ll go do that as soon as I am done with this. Is umm… is …is David going to be taking over the rest of the classes today or …?” Christy said looking back at Miss Alice. “No, I will be taking over the classes for now. I can finish that up if thee would like.” Miss Alice said walking towards her. “That would be great! Thank you.” Christy said quickly gathering her things. After she was done she took a step towards the door and stopped. “Oh Miss Alice, how am I ever going to leave these children? They are so heart broken.” “Thee will do fine. Come on I will walk with thee to the mission house.” Miss Alice said tugging at her arm. Reluctantly Christy followed. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~ Hours later after Jeb and John (who was going with to help unload) had gotten all of Christy’s trunks and bags on the wagon she quickly said good-bye to everyone from the Cove and then she left. Knowing deep in her heart that she couldn’t bear to ever come back. As they were bumping along the dirt road Christy thought, *Well I am glad I didn’t see David. I wonder where he was? What is Neil and Margaret going to do now?* Christy shook her and sat up straighter, *No! I must stop this foolishness! Neil is married and that’s that!* David watched as Jeb and John rode off with Christy. Knowing deep in his heart he had caused her to leave, and not knowing how to fix it. He headed to the barn in hopes that Prince would somehow understand. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~ Jeb and John didn’t say much on the ride, but John pulled out his harmonica and played as they headed towards El Pano. Christy just looked around not saying anything, but doing her best not to cry. As they reached El Pano Christy caught a glimpse of the Tea House that was now empty and again her thoughts turned to Margaret. *Oh!* she fumed, *Why in the world did I ever tell her that Neil was worth fighting for?!* “Well we are here Miz Christy.” Jeb said. “Are you sure you want to do this?” “Yes, of course!” Christy said quickly jumping from the wagon without assistance. “I need to get a way…” “Well than…” Jeb said heading to the back of the wagon, “We best be unloading these trunks here. Come on John.” Within a few minutes Christy’s trunks were unloaded and she was on the train. As she looked out the window tears streamed down her face, *Well mother is glad I am coming home.* Christy blew her nose and turned her face from her last view of El Pano as the train pulled away. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~ “Oh darling! I am so glad you are here! I have missed you so much!” Julia said as she embraced her daughter. “Now let me look at you! Why you look tired! We must get you home and into bed at once! Come along!” Christy smiled at her father before giving him a quick hug, “I’m glad to be home, too. Where is George?” She asked as they headed towards the awaiting carriage. “Oh you know your brother. He has been working on this new fangled automobiles and he was so exhausted that when he got ready to go he fell asleep on the davenport waiting for us. I didn’t have the heart to wake him.” William said. “Oh well! I will see him in the morning.” Christy said as they got into the carriage. They talked for a while, but Christy soon fell asleep on her father’s shoulder. “Well she was tired!” Julia said, “Must have been from the lack of sleep she has been getting. I don’t know how she could have slept there with all that noise! I know I had a hard time sleeping when I was there. There was always crickets or some kind of animal making noises…” Part/Chapter: 4 When they got home Williams gently woke Christy and helped her to her room. Julia helped her change and get into bed where Christy promptly fell fast asleep. When Julia went to her room to get ready she found William sitting at the edge of the bed staring at the wall. “What’s that matter, dear?” she asked getting undressed. “Humm??” William said glancing up at his wife and then looking back at the wall, “Oh. I was just thinking about when we went to Cutter Gap. How much Christy liked it there, and how much she didn’t want to leave. I wonder…” “Yes dear?” Julia asked brushing her hair. She loved her husband dearly and she listened attentively as he talked. “Well,” William said looking back at his wife, “I believe there must have been some reason that Christy left Cutter Gap. She doesn’t seem herself. She looks kind of sad…” “Yes, I do believe you’re right, dear. I had seen it too.” Julia said crawling into bed, “I will talk to her about it tomorrow will that be all right?” William looked at her, “I worry about her sometimes, Julia. I think something must have hurt her pretty bad for her to leave so suddenly.” “Yes, I believe you are right, but there is nothing we can do about it now, so why don’t you get ready for bed?” “Okay.” William said, but Christy and Cutter Gap wasn’t far from his thoughts. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~ The next morning as Christy was sleeping her brother George crept into her room with a feather. Quietly going to her side he knelt and taking the feather he brushed it under he nose. She reached up with her finger and brushed it under her nose while George was trying so hard not to laugh out loud. When she settled down again and didn’t wake up George did it to her again. Again she made a swipe for it, but this time she rolled over. So George moved to the other side of the bed and again teased her with the feather. This time however he couldn’t stop himself and laughed out loud when Christy mumbled something and swatted at the feather. When George laughed Christy’s eyes sprang opened and she reached over to smack her brother, but he was to quick and he moved away. Christy then flung the blankets off and jumped out of bed. By this time George had jumped to his feet and ran for the door. “I’m going to get you!” Christy said. But George just laughed and hurried down the stairs calling up to her, “That’s what you always say, and you haven’t gotten me back yet! And don’t you be coming down here like that mother will have a fit!” Christy stopped in her tracks, “I will get you one of these days George you just wait!” And she quickly bounded up the stairs. Christy quickly got dressed and headed downstairs for breakfast. “Why, dear! We didn’t know you would be up so early or otherwise we would have waited for you before beginning breakfast. Come and sit down.” Julia said. “Yes, well I decided it was high time for me to get out of bed.” She said throwing her brother a look as he muffled a chuckle with his napkin. When she sat down she looked at her father who knew what happened and winked at her. “Good morning, girlie. Did you sleep well?” “Yes I did, actually. I slept very well.” Christy said before she began eating. “Good.” William said before taking another bite of his breakfast. “Well Christy,” Julia began “if you feel up to it I would like to take you shopping today. You clothes are really out of style, and I planned to go anyway…” “I would like that, mother.” Christy said. Julia’s eyebrows rose as she glanced at her husband and then back at Christy, “Well then we can leave right after breakfast. Is that alright?” “Yes.” Christy quickly answered. “Well okay then. Daisy will you please tell Jack to hitch up the carriage?” Julia said to the servant. “Yes ma’am.” Daisy said and then left the room. Christy watched her and thought of the time she spent in Kentucky with Miss Alice and sighed. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~ Julia took Christy shopping and they bought lots of clothes and other things. While they were shopping Julia didn’t bring up Cutter Gap, because Christy seemed happier then when she first came and she didn’t want to spoil that. However there was times when Christy would look at something and Julia would see that sadness return and she knew that she was thinking of Cutter Gap and Julia would try to take her mind off it. But usually whatever she had looked at she bought. Some buttons, a pair of shoes (much bigger then her own feet), a raccoon figurine, and some other things. After the day of shopping was over Christy and Julia spent the rest of the day unpacking her things. Only then did Julia bring up Cutter Gap. “Christy, I know that the last time we saw you, you didn’t want to leave the Cutter Gap. Why did you decide to come home?” Julia said hanging up one of Christy’s shirts. Christy’s lip began to tremble and tears began to fall and she sobbed. Julia quickly hurried to her side to comfort her and the whole story poured out. Part/Chapter: 5 Julia took Christy shopping and they bought lots of clothes and other things. While they were shopping Julia didn’t bring up Cutter Gap, because Christy seemed happier then when she first came and she didn’t want to spoil that. However there was times when Christy would look at something and Julia would see that sadness return and she knew that she was thinking of Cutter Gap and Julia would try to take her mind off it. But usually whatever she had looked at she bought. Some buttons, a pair of shoes (much bigger then her own feet), a raccoon figurine, and some other things. After the day of shopping was over Christy and Julia spent the rest of the day unpacking her things. Only then did Julia bring up Cutter Gap. “Christy, I know that the last time we saw you, you didn’t want to leave the Cutter Gap. Why did you decide to come home?” Julia said hanging up one of Christy’s shirts. Christy’s lip began to tremble and tears began to fall and she sobbed. Julia quickly hurried to her side to comfort her and the whole story poured out. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~ “She really loves him, William.” Julia said after she told him what had happened. “I never would have thought my beautiful daughter would fall in love with a mountain man!” “Humm…” Williams said thoughtfully. “Is that all you can say?” Julia teased him. “No, of course not!” he said pulling her close. “I am just worried about Christy. She loves children and it’s going to be hard on her not to be around them.” “Oh I know dear.” Julia said with a smile, “But don’t you remember? Rev. Winslow is preaching tomorrow.” “Is that so?” William said grinning. “I guess God has everything worked out and I should stop worrying.” “Yes, dear you really should.” Julia said with a serious face. William chuckled and pulled her close, “I don’t know what I did to deserve someone like you!” ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ The next morning as the Huddleston’s were in church Christy silently listened as Rev. Winslow told the stories about the west, and how desperate they needed teachers. Immediately Christy knew what she had to do. Right after church was over Rev. Winslow was swarmed with people wanting to talk to him, but Christy was determined that she would have a chance, so she silently waited telling her parents to go home without her and she would walk home. Julia and William exchanged knowing glances. “Of course, dear. George is having so much fun talking with his friends that we will leave him here to walk home with you.” “Thank you mother.” Christy said giving them each a hug before they left. After waiting for another 20 minutes Christy was finally about to talk to him, “Good after-noon, Rev. Winslow. My name is Christy Huddleston. I just came back from teaching in Cutter Gap, Tennessee. I would like very much to go out west and teach.” She said in a rush. Rev. Winslow smiled, “God is so great! You are the 10th person to volunteer. And the last person I need! I was beginning to think I would be one person short. Well let’s see…” he said looking down at his paper, “I need you to go to Spring Water, Texas.How does that sound?” “Wonderful!” Christy exclaimed. “I will need more information about yourself. You are single aren’t you?” Rev. Winslow asked. “Yes, of course! And I will be happy to answer any questions you may have.” Christy said. “Good. How about meeting with the others at the St. James Hotel at 8:00 tomorrow morning?” Rev. Winslow asked. “I’ll be there!” Christy said. “Great! I will see you tomorrow morning then.” Rev. Winslow looked at someone behind her. “Hello! My sister isn’t asking you to go to teach a school somewhere is she?” Christy turned to see her brother George standing there smiling. “As a matter of fact, George I did.” His smile disappeared, “Does mother and father know about this?” Part/Chapter: 6 That night Christy sat down and wrote some letters to Miss Alice, David and the children. She thought about writing Neil but had decided Margaret wouldn’t like that. As she sealed the envelope and packaged a box of presents for the children tears silently streamed down her face. *Oh how I miss them!* Christy thought, *But I mustn’t think of that anymore!* Christy addressed the package and blew out the lantern before crawling into bed and silently crying herself to sleep. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ “We will miss you, dear.” Julia said hugging Christy at the train station. “I will miss you both too, mother.” Christy said hugging her mother back ferociously. “As for you George,” Julia said pulling away from Christy with tears streaming down her face she smiled, “I believe we will miss you just a little bit.” George grinned at her, “I know mother.” He reached over and hugged her. Christy turned toward her father, “Thank you for letting George come with me father. It won’t be quite so lonesome with him with me.” “Oh, I am sure it won’t!” William said winking at her before reaching over to hug her. “I will miss you, little miss. Take good care of yourself, and make sure you wire us as soon as you get there.” Christy smiled as tears streamed silently down her own face, “I will father, I will.” As she pulled away she seen tears not only streaming down her father’s face, but her brothers as well. “Well look at us! We are all crying as if we’d never see each other again!” They all chuckled but immediately sobered when the conductor called out, “ALL ABOARD!” “Take care of her George.” William said giving his son a hug. “And try to stay out of mischief.” George laughed, “I’ll do my best father!” Then Christy and George quickly got on the train and sat down. As they waved to their parents one last time George said, “Texas here we come! Ready or not!” Christy rolled her eyes at her brother and leaned back in the seat flipping open her sketchbook and began to sketch. George who had to sit by the window kept watching, and looking around, but before to long he was bored of it and fell asleep with Christy in tow her sketchbook forgotten. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~ As Christy and George traveled west they had eaten, watched out the window and Christy sketched, but mostly they slept having been up late the night before, packing. They went as far as they could go on the train and then they took a stagecoach the rest of the way. While they traveled in the coached they bounced along not really doing anything except holding on for dear life. They couldn’t fall asleep and Christy couldn’t sketch. They were happy when the coach finally rolled to a stop and the stage driver said, “Sweetwater, Texas! End of the line! Everyone out.” ~*~*~*~*~*~*~ Christy was thrilled to find out her house was right next to the schoolhouse. And she quickly began to unpack. People stopped by with eggs, cornbread, jam and other things. George had left for a few hours and then came running back, “Sis! SIS! I got a job! A real job as a cowboy! They hired me over at Rose Hill Ranch and I am going to be bringing in cattle and doing all that kinds of stuff! They said I can start work right away, and I can sleep in the bunkhouse! It’s not as nice as home, but it’s going to be fun! And I have my own horse….!” Christy smiled at her brother as he talked on and on. Only stopping him when she had questions. Finally he said, “Well I have to get back. I won’t be very far away, and I will come see you as much as I can! C-Ya later sis!” George said quickly giving his sister a hug before running out the door shouting, “Yahoo! I am going to be a REAL cowboy!” When he left Christy sat down and laughed, and laughed, and laughed. Part/Chapter: 7 Over the next few months Christy was busy teaching and George was busy working at the ranch. There was a few barn raisings and they went. George would be working with the men on the barn and Christy was with the women helping with the food. Many times she thought of Cutter Gap and how different the two places where, but mainly she kept busy and tried to stay away from any man who had shown any interest in her. After being there for a few months George came over for supper, bring along with him a couple of ‘guests.’ “Christy.” George said, “This is Miss Rose Dennings and her brother, Mr. Jonathon Dennings.” “Well how do you do?” Christy said smiling. “Why don’t you come in? I was just about ready to set the table.” “Can I help?” Miss Dennings asked. Christy looked at her and smiled, “I could use a little help. I am not use to serving food.” She quietly said. Miss Dennings smiled back, “Well I have to admit I have never served food either! But I would enjoy helping you.” “Well then! Follow me.” ~*~*~*~*~*~*~ After dinner was over everyone went to talk in the living room. “Well I must say, Miss Huddleston, that was superb meal!” Mr. Dennings said. “Why thank you!” Christy said blushing. George looked at his sister, “Yah, sis, that was better then any other meal you have ever cooked! Why Jonathon did you know my sister nearly burned down our house one time…” “George! Don’t you dare!” Christy said giving him a murderous look. “She was suppose to be doing her school work, but she slipped down into the kitchen and tried to make us all supper! Well father and I were in his study when we heard our servant Daisy crying out, ‘Fire! Fire!’ Father and I ran to the kitchen only to find a flour smudged Christy looking at us sheepishly and Daisy trying to shoo smoke from the oven out the kitchen door!” George and Jonathon busted out laughing and Rose avoided my gaze trying to hide her own mirth. “Well I was only trying to help.” Christy said seriously. Rose couldn’t contain herself any longer and started laughing with the guys before too long Christy began laughing too. After George and the Dennings left Christy cleaned up and went to bed with a smile on her face. *I bet by the looks my brother kept giving Miss Dennings, that he likes her. Humm…* ~*~*~*~*~*~*~ A year passed since George and Christy had come to Sweetwater, Texas. When spring break came Mr. & Mrs. Huddleston came to visit them. George of course introduced them to the Dennings and Williams and Julia smiled knowingly at each other. George had informed them of his growing feelings towards Miss Dennings, and when they met William and Julia both liked her immediately. One day the all went on a picnic where Christy grew tired of hearing of George’s upcoming wedding and took a walk. Julia watched her daughter grow with sadness in her eyes, knowing that she was hurting. But she thought it would be best for her to be by herself for a while, before she went after her. Christy walked around a pond and sat down on the bank, silently thinking to herself and unconsciously throwing pebbles into the water. *Oh how I…No I can’t think about him! It will only hurt! I need to get my mind off of him! Oh but!* Christy put her head down and pulled her knees up and silently cried. Julia found her there a few minutes later and comforted her as best as she could. “Why do I love him, mother?! He’s a married man! I shouldn’t feel this way! I keep asking God to forgive me!” Christy sobbed. Julia just held her in her arms and let her cry saying soothingly over and over, “I know. I’m so sorry. It’ll be okay.” “But that’s not all!” Christy spat as she pulled away and blew her nose. “There is a doctor coming to town! And I don’t ever want to met him!” “Oh dear!” Julia said pulling Christy close again. “It will all work out, Christy. It will all work out…” Part/Chapter: 8 Over the next few weeks William and Julia announced they were going to stay until after George’s wedding and so the preparations began. Christy tried to be happy for her brother and her friend, but it was hard. When the new doctor came Christy did her best to stay clear of him, but one day she overheard two women talking. “He is so rugged looking! He sure doesn’t look like any doctor I’ve ever met!” Mrs. Taft the general store manager said. “And those reddish curls and that accent! Why I can understand why that man’s not married!” Ms. Beans the seamstress replied. “Well for one! I told my girls to stay clear of him! But they all took a shinin’ to him.” Mrs Taft said. “You really need to knock some sense into those girls! Why they take a shinin’ to any man around here who is single!” Ms. Beans said. “I know!” Mrs. Taft began, “And I want them to marry well, not to some rugged man who probably doesn’t have a dime to his name!” Just then I felt someone tap on my arm, “Eavesdropping sister?” George said grinning. Christy blushed, “Oh you! I just came in here to look for something, but I can’t find it! Let’s go!” she said hurrying out the door. “Hey sis! SIS! Wait up!” George said running after her. “I came to tell you the Dennings invited us over for dinner. You’re coming right? It’s at 6:00 o’ clock.” “Yes, of course I’ll come! Is mother and father coming?” “Yes, I will be picking you all up around 5:30. Will you be ready by then?” “Of course!” Christy said playfully slapping her brother, but he knew it was coming and dodged it. “Great!” he grinned. “I’ll see you at 5:30 then! Dress up real nice!” George said as he ran down the street. *Humm…* Christy thought, *By the look on his face I wonder if he has something up his sleeve. Oh well!* Christy hurried to her house to get ready. She got dressed as best as she could knowing how much it would mean to her brother. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~ “Good-Evening, Mr. & Mrs. Huddleston, George, and Miss Huddleston! I’m glad you all could make it.” He said giving George a wink. When George had came to pick me up I knew something was up. Because mother and father were grinning along with him I figured they were in on it too. I had asked and asked them but they said it was nothing, but I knew better. So when Mr. Dennings winked at George I knew he was in on it as well. “Okay what’s going on?” I asked him. “Well nothing at all Miss. Huddleston. Why would you think that?” He replied grinning. I sighed. *Men!* I thought. But Rose came in just then with a flurry of hugs for everyone and my suspicions was soon forgotten. That is until we were seated at the table and I seen one extra plate sitting right across from me. “Is there someone else coming?” I asked. Before anyone could answer my question there was the sound of hoof beats and a servant talking to someone outside. I had turned my attention to the door, but everyone else had looked at me, I however didn’t notice a thing. Then a servant came in and announced, “Your last guest, sir. Doctor…” “Yes, please show him in.” Mr. Dennings interrupted. Christy immediately became flustered and threw her mother a ‘help me’ look, but she just sat there smiling at the door. “Good-Evening, Mr. Dennings! Sorry I’m late!” A Scottish brogue interrupted her thoughts of escape. I whirled to the voice and my face went pale, “Neil!” I exclaimed as I started to get up, but I caught myself and quickly settled back down. Blushing I said, “I didn’t know you were in town Doctor MacNeill.” Neil grinned at Christy and she blushed even more and turned to look at her plate. “Well,” he began, “I’m the new doctor of Sweetwater!” Christy gasped and looked at her parents, “And you knew all along! How could…” But Christy stopped herself just in time and didn’t say another word through the rest of the meal. After dinner was over Christy quickly went to her father’s side, “I don’t feel very good. I want to go home.” William grinned down at her, “Very well. Doctor MacNeill? Christy isn’t feeling well…ouch!” Williams looked down and a horrified Christy who had just pinched him. “Is there something wrong with your arm, Mr. Huddleston?” Neil said walking over to them as William rubbed the spot Christy pinched him. “No, not at all. It’s just a little something that bothers me from time to time.” William said looking at Neil. “Yes I see.” Neil said looking at Christy who didn’t look at him but blushed just the same. “You say Miss Huddleston isn’t feeling well? Maybe I should take a look…” “No! I am fine. I just would like to go home and get some rest.” Christy said looking at the floor. “Yah! Well let me take you home then! I will be going that way anyways!” Neil said smiling. Christy’s gaze jerked from the floor to Neil to her father in a horrified expression, “Thank you, Doctor, but I believe I can get home myself.” “No, girly. Let Doctor MacNeill take you home. Your mother and I would like to stay and talk for a while and I’m sure Dr. MacNeill wouldn’t care to hear about all these wedding plans.” William said. “But father!” Christy pleaded. “Come along Miss Huddleston! I don’t bite I promise!” Gently Neil took Christy’s arm and led her to the awaiting carriage. Part/Chapter: 9 As they traveled down the road Christy didn’t say a word, but stared straight ahead it was Neil who broke the silence. “How are you doing really, Christy?” He asked simply. “I’m fine.” Christy said. Neil looked over at her and then turned down the road that took them to a pond. “Where are we going?” Christy asked. Neil pulled the carriage over and went to her side. “Please Christy, we need to talk.” Christy looked at Neil and seen there was something different about him. Something she didn’t see before, and finally she let him help her down. Neil took her arm and they walked to the river where they sat down. “Christy, so much has happened since you left Cutter Gap, and I would like to tell you about it. I won’t take long, I promise.” Neil said looking at her. Christy sighed, “Please do.” Her eyes began sparkling again as she looked at Neil, and he turned to look over the pond. “Well after you left Dr. Ferrand sent a new teacher. She wasn’t like you, but the children liked her just the same. Her and David got married over a month ago. David is still working there, much to my surprise. “Dan Scott learned as much as he could from me and he went back home to help his people. Cecil and Dan have been married for about 4 months now, and they are expecting their first child. “There was a rich fella from New York who came and swept Ruby Mae off her feet. He’s not a bad guy. We all liked him. His name is Locke Milo, and he and Ruby Mae were made for each other.” Neil chuckled a little. “John and Bessie are getting ready for their wedding and everyone in the Cove is excited that they are finally getting together. “Rob Allen left for college not to long after you left. Creed Allen, if you can believe it, decided he wanted to take over the mill, so Rob could go to college. “Miss Alice is engaged to Dr. Ferrand, and they plan on getting married next month. She didn’t want to get married without you being there, Christy, but she was unable to contact you the last few months.” Neil fell silent, and when he said nothing more Christy spoke up, “What about you Neil? Where’s Margaret?” Neil looked over at her and then back toward the pond, “She died. After about a month of staying in the Cove she went crazy, and left. Well she didn’t make it far…some men got a hold of her and well…. she died. “She had been staying at the mission with Miss Alice…” Neil stopped. Christy watched him while he talked and she could see hurt in his eyes, but there was something else too. “Is that all that happened, Neil?” Neil turned and looked at her with fire in his eyes, and grabbed a hold of her arms, “No. You see Christy after you left I cried out to God, and he saved me.” Christy’s eyes sparkled as she smiled, “That’s wonderful, Neil!” “Yes, it is.” He smiled as he slowly released her; “I’m a free man now Christy, and I have a job here... You see what I didn’t mention was…is…” Neil looked down at the ground, “well a younger fella came to the Cove and he liked it there, so he sorta took over my job. I found out where you were from your butler, and so I came here. Neil looked back at Christy, “My heart is always with you, Christy. Where ever you want to be is where I want to be. So if you want to be here, I’ll stay here.” Christy turned away from Neil and looked at the moon. “Every time I look at the moon, I remember that night when we met together at the river. But the moon isn’t the same here as it is in Cutter Gap.” Christy turned back towards Neil, “Cutter Gap was my home, because you where there. I love the children, Miss Alice, and everyone, and I miss them so much.” Tears streamed down Christy’s face, “You are the doctor here now and I… Neil leaned forward and put a finger to her lips, “Don’t say another word, lass.” His eyes twinkled, “There is something else I failed to mention.” Part/Chapter: 10 (Final) “What?” Christy asked. “Well you see…” Neil’s eye twinkled in the moonlight and his smile got bigger, “I’m not the new doctor for Sweetwater, Texas. I came here looking for you.” “But…but… I heard people talking and I…” Christy stammered confused. “Are you admitting listening to gossip, Christy?” Neil laughed. “Oh you!” Christy said as she quickly stood up and rushed back to the carriage. Neil followed her innocently and got into the carriage. He clucked the team and they headed for home. Inwardly Christy fumed on the way home, *Who does he think he is!* But she had a hard time keeping the smile off her face. Neil just sat next to her confidently knowing everything would work out. When Neil pulled up next to the Christy’s house she quickly jumped off the carriage and rushed inside. “Good-night, Christy!” Neil called and chuckled as he headed home. Christy closed the door she leaned against it and smiled dreamily. “Good-Night, Neil.” She whispered. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~ It was before dawn when Christy had woke up and she groaned. *I don’t want to be awake now! It’s to early!* she thought and then she smiled to herself and threw back the covers and quickly got dressed. She quickly walked to the stable and saddled up her horse. When she finished she mounted and galloped towards the west with determined smile on her face. As she got close to her destination she dismounted and ran to a newly built house. Quickly and quietly she opened the door and went in. Smiling at the sound of snoring she walked up to the door and opened it. When she got into the room she let her eyes adjust to the darkness and she pulled out a feather from pocket. Silently she walked over to the still form in the bed and squinting she found her victim’s nose and brushed the feather under it. A hand went out and brushed away the feather and Christy put a hand over her mouth to keep from laughing out loud. *No wonder George enjoys torching me so! It is fun!* Christy thought as she brought the feather back up to his nose. This time the form sat up and grabbed her, “Who are you and what do you think you are you doing?!” A Scottish brogue exclaimed. Christy gasped and fell backwards hitting her head on the dresser. As she began to rub the sore spot Neil had lit the lantern and brought it closer to her. “Christy!” Neil said, “What…?? Why…??” “I thought you were my brother.” Christy said still rubbing the sore spot on her head and biting her lip to keep from crying out loud. Neil looked at her and began laughing and soon Christy was laughing, but it all stopped when an angry voice said, “What is going on in here?” Neil quickly stood up and helped Christy to her feet, “George, it’s not what you think. You see I came in here…” But Christy could say anymore because she started laughing again. Neil quickly explained trying not to laugh and when he finished George began laughing too. “I told you, you’d never get me!” “I almost did though!” Christy said. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~ George, Christy and Neil left the house and George headed to the Dennings while Neil escorted Christy back into town. “I thought you were mad at me.” Neil said. “Well I was.” Christy said and then looked at Neil and smiled, “For about 5 minutes.” Neil chuckled, “What changed your mind?” “Wouldn’t you like to know?” Christy said grinning before she kicked her mount into a gallop. Neil caught up to her at the stable as she was dismounting. He quickly jumped off his horse and hurried to her side. “Christy! I can’t stand it anymore! I came here looking for you for a reason, and I was going to wait, but I just can’t!” Neil said reaching for Christy’s hand as he knelt on one knee. “I believe God meant us to be together, Christy. I want you to know that I love you, and I believe I always have. Will you marry me?” Christy smiled, “Oh yes, Neil!” Neil smiled the biggest, brightest smile Christy had ever seen and he pulled her into his arms and gently, but passionately kissed her. *I knew if I played my cards right he would ask me sooner or later!* Christy thought enjoying Neil’s sweet kiss. The End!