Title: Like a Spider's Web Author: Elena S. DISCLAIMER: Catherine Marshall's beautiful story of Christy is owned by the Marshall/LeSourd families. We are in no way seeking profit or credit for her story. We are continuing the story for our own amusement only. Like a Spider's Web Chapter One The morning sun brought such brightness to the land and to Christy's heart. The air was still cool and she shivered as she gazed at the clouds over the mountains. She hoped it would warm up soon. As she made her way to the schoolhouse, her attention was grasped by a spider's web. Droplets of dew decorated the delicate pattern and she caught her breath at the sight as the sunlight was magnified through them. Christy thought of the strength and fragility of the web and tried to think of how to incorporate the duality into a lesson for the children. "You're up early this morning." David smiled from the schoolhouse steps. "Speak for yourself. Why are you here so early?" "Just admiring the morning. It's so peaceful." "It's one of my favorite times, too. I wish it could be like this all the time." David nodded. "I'm going to ride out and check the telephone lines. The foliage grows so quickly here and I want to make sure that vines and falling trees aren't going to damage the lines." "How can you manage alone? I mean.....what if you have to cut away a lot of vegetation?" "Don't worry. I can always come back to get Jeb or Dan to help me." Christy smiled. "It's too bad that pigs aren't taller." David's eyes grew huge. "That's all we need. Giant pigs running around eating everything in sight." They both laughed heartily, breaking the morning stillness. ****** "John, wait up!" Bessie was running, trying to catch up to him. "John..........please?" John's long legs were covering a lot of ground. "Hurry up. I don't wanna be late." Her foot caught on the uneven ground and she fell. She looked up. John didn't even notice. Bessie picked herself up, gathered her things, and ran after him again. Clang, clang, clang. Christy was ringing the school bell and greeting the children as they filed into the schoolhouse. "Bessie! What happened to your leg?" Christy put the hand bell down and ran down the steps to her student. "I.....fell. It's nothin, teacher." Bessie grew nervous as everyone came out to look at her. "It's not nothing. Bessie, this looks bad." Christy took out her handkerchief and began wiping away the blood. "Ruby Mae, run for Doctor MacNeill." "Yes'm." Ruby Mae started running. "Ruby Mae! Be careful!" Christy called out. She didn't want two injured students on her hands. "Yes'm." Ruby Mae didn't stop running. "Bessie, I'd like to take you to the mission house. Doctor MacNeill may need boiling water and other supplies there. Do you think you can manage?" Christy watched Bessie carefully. Bessie nodded. "John, will you take the children inside the schoolhouse? I'll send Miss Alice out once we get to the mission." Bessie leaned on Christy for support and they slowly made their way to the mission. ****** "Miss Alice! Miss Alice!" Christy called out. "Christy! What is it?" Miss Alice ran out to them. "Bessie has a bad cut on her leg. Ruby Mae has run for Doctor MacNeill. David is checking the telephone lines. John is watching the children......." "Easy now, Bessie." Miss Alice gently guided Bessie into the mission house and into a chair. "Miss Huddleston, we can take it from here. You go on back to school." "If you're sure, Miss Alice." Miss Alice smiled at Christy as she gathered some medical supplies together. ****** Neil entered the mission house and Ruby Mae took Charlie to the barn. "Everything is ready for you, Neil." Miss Alice had an array of medical supples laid out on the table. "Thank you, Alice." Neil knelt down and scrutinized Bessie's wound. "You've had yourself quite a fall, haven't you? Are you hurt anywhere else?" Bessie shook her head. It had been some time since she had mistakenly accused Christy of having a secret midnight meeting with John Spencer during a church meeting. Christy had met Doctor MacNeill that night by accident. Once the truth came out, Bessie felt embarassed and ashamed. She felt especially nervous around Doctor MacNeill. "OK, let me get washed up and we'll fix you up." Neil jumped up and vigorously cleaned his hands and forearms. After several stitches and a bandage, Miss Alice and Doctor MacNeill started putting all the supplies away. Bessie looked down at the bandage. Doctor MacNeill had been so gentle. It didn't hurt as much as she thought it would. She touched her bandage gingerly. "Try not to get the bandage wet. We'll change it tomorrow. I want you to take it easy for a while. I don't want the stitches to be torn." Doctor MacNeill looked her straight in the eyes. "My Pa won't like hit. I have chores to do." Her voice was quiet and shaky. Neil nodded. "I can speak to him if you like." Bessie looked at him in wonder and nodded. "Let's get you back to school." Doctor MacNeill helped her up. His hands were so warm. She leaned against him as he helped support her weight and they started on their way to the schoolhouse. "Thank you for your help, Alice." Neil looked over his shoulder at Miss Alice. "Thee are welcome, Neil." Chapter two to come later. Subject: Fanfiction-Like a Spider's Web, Chapter Two Date: Tue, 03 Oct 2000 15:01:41 -0700 From: Elena Seto To: sonja :-) Subject: [Fwd: Fanfiction-Like a Spider's Web, Chapter Two] Resent-Date: Tue, 26 Sep 2000 02:59:19 +0800 Resent-From: christy@gospel.iinet.net.au Date: Mon, 25 Sep 2000 12:00:25 -0700 From: Elena Seto Reply-To: christy@gospel.iinet.net.au To: christy list Resending since list was down. Elena Subject: Fanfiction-Like a Spider's Web, Chapter Two Date: Fri, 22 Sep 2000 17:25:35 -0700 From: Elena Seto To: christy list DISCLAIMER: Catherine Marshall's beautiful story of Christy is owned by the LeSourd Family. We are in no way seeking profit or credit for her story. We are continuing the story of Christy for our own amusement only. Title: Like A Spider's Web Chapter Two Summary of Chapter One: David is inspecting the telephone lines. Bessie injures her leg and is attended to by Miss Alice and Doctor MacNeill. Doctor MacNeill escorts Bessie back to the schoolhouse. Author: Elena Email: eseto@email.sjsu.edu Neil lifted Bessie into his arms and carried her up the schoolhouse steps into the school. All lessons were forgotten as the children watched Doctor MacNeill set Bessie down into an empty seat. "Did ya put stitches in her, Doc?" Little Burl wanted to know. "There was so much blood." Becky wrinkled her nose. "Ya reckon that lots of them germs got in there, Doc?" Creed Allen thrived on drama and liked getting reactions out of people. "Do ya think that she'll.......die?" Neil looked at Bessie. "Is it all right if I discuss your case with the class?" "I won't die, will I?" Bessie's face became pale. Doctor MacNeill put a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "If we keep the wound clean, you'll heal just fine." Bessie let out a sigh of relief. "It won't hurt me none if ya talk about my leg." "Miss Huddleston, may I interrupt your class to give an impromptu medical lesson?" Neil gave her a big smile. "We would be honored, Doctor." Christy couldn't help but smile back at him. She sometimes felt that she didn't hold a candle to the doctor's presentations. The children took to Neil's intensity and hung on to his every word. Christy wondered if the students would progress further in their Latin, arithmetic, and spelling if Neil had been their teacher. Neil made his way to the front of the class. "When Bessie cut her leg, there was a lot of blood, right? That's how the human body tries to cleanse the wound from the inside......out. Any dirt that was near the area that was hurt could be washed away by the blood flow, just like a river." He paused for effect. "You don't want to lose too much blood, though. That's why Miss Alice applied pressure to the wound to stop the blood from flowing." "Reckon that Bessie would bleed to death if it weren't for Miss Alice," Creed interjected. "No interrupting, Creed," Christy reprimanded. "In time, Bessie's blood may have clotted on its own and that would have stopped the bleeding," Neil explained. Sam Houston raised his hand. Neil signaled permission with a nod. "Like this?" Sam Houston exposed his elbow that showed a previous scrape that was already on the mend. "How did you do that?" Neil came over to examine him. Creed Allen stuck his hand into the air and waved it around like he was going to burst if Neil didn't call on him. "I'm asking Sam Houston the question, Creed. However, I do appreciate your enthusiasm." Neil gently took a hold of Sam Houston's arm. Creed groaned in defeat and collapsed his arms across his desk. "Well.......I just hurt it, that's all. But it don't need no medical tending!" Sam Houston pulled his arm back from Neil. Neil chuckled and walked back to the front of the class. "To prevent any infection from germs, I cleaned the wound. I put in a few stitches so the muscle will mend faster and the bandage will keep the wound clean. Now to keep those stitches from being torn, Bessie will need to take it easy for a little while. I'll need everyone to help her out. Can you do that?" Neil scanned the room to make sure everyone was willing to participate. "Good. Now, if you would all excuse me, I have some patients to see." The class was quiet, disappointed that he wasn't staying longer. "Children, please thank Doctor MacNeill for sharing his knowledge with you," Christy reminded them as she walked up to Neil. "Thank you," the children said as a class. Christy whispered, "Thank you, Neil." "You're welcome," Neil whispered back. He headed down the aisle towards the door and turned around. "Maybe I could give another lesson soon?" The children started rustling and nodding pleadingly at Christy. Christy smiled and said, "Anytime, Doctor." Neil grinned and started for the exit, "Good-bye, boys and girls." He stopped in front of Bessie and placed one of his hands on top of her head. "Don't overdo it. Promise?" Bessie nodded and watched him as he strode out of the school and down the steps. "All right, children. Back to our lessons," Christy instructed. Within the next hour, Christy had everyone involved in their lessons and everything seemed like it was back to normal. "Yoonited States Mail!!" Ben Pentland's voice was heard outside. The children were alert to the sound and were poised to sprint. Christy sighed, took a deep breath, and relented, "All right." They were off like a shot, streaming out of the schoolhouse. Christy gave Bessie her hand and helped her outside. Strangely, all the children were very quiet and standing rather still. Christy was perplexed, until she saw him. "Dr. Ferrand. What a surprise!" "What do you mean 'surprise'? Didn't you get my letter?" Dr. Ferrand's booming voice was so loud that it was hard to tell if he was angry or just loud. Ben Pentland cleared his throat. "Would that be..........this here letter?" Mr. Pentland held up a single letter in the air. Dr. Ferrand took the letter from Mr. Pentland, read the address, and gave the mail courier a stern look. Chapter 3 to come later.... Subject: Fanfiction-Like a Spider's Web, Chapter 3 Date: Tue, 03 Oct 2000 15:02:29 -0700 From: Elena Seto To: sonja :-) Subject: Fanfiction-Like a Spider's Web, Chapter 3 Resent-Date: Sat, 30 Sep 2000 08:49:14 +0800 Resent-From: christy@gospel.iinet.net.au Date: Fri, 29 Sep 2000 17:50:03 -0700 From: Elena Seto Reply-To: christy@gospel.iinet.net.au To: christy list DISCLAIMER: Catherine Marshall's beautiful story of Christy is owned by the Marshall/LeSourd families. We are in no way seeking profit or credit for her story. We are continuing the story of Christy for our own amusement only. Title: Like a Spider's Web Chapter Three Summary of Chapter Two: Neil returns Bessie to school and gives an impromptu medical lesson to the class. Dr. Ferrand makes a surprise visit. Author: Elena Email: eseto@email.sjsu.edu Dr. Ferrand handed the letter to Christy. "Where's David? I need him to help me unload some supplies." "David is out inspecting the telephone lines," Christy walked to John Spencer. "John, could you help Dr. Ferrand with his things?" John nodded and walked towards Dr. Ferrand's horse. He waited for Dr. Ferrand to hand him some parcels. "Are you keeping up with your music, son?" Dr. Ferrand filled John's arms with supplies. "Oh, yes, sir." John strove to balance everything. He did not want to drop anything that was entrusted to him. Mr. Pentland stepped in to assist. Dr. Ferrand entered the mission house and looked around. Miss Alice was sitting at the table, surrounded by paperwork. "Jacob!" Miss Alice greeted him with a hug. "Oh, it is a pleasure to see thee." "I have stayed away too long." Dr. Ferrand smiled at Miss Alice. Miss Alice felt her face grow warm. She smoothed her hair and skirt with her graceful hands. ****** Bessie and Ruby Mae were lying down on the grass, gazing at the clouds in the sky, and trying to relax as the other children were at play around them. "When you were sweet on Rob Allen, what did you like 'bout him best?" Ruby Mae asked Bessie. "The look in his eyes when he's thinkin'. He's smart enough to be writin' his own books." Bessie sat up on her elbows and looked about. Rob Allen would be arriving at any time now. Rob Allen had a passion for writing and loved learning, but was torn between his obligation to helping run the family's mill and attending school. Rob's father allowed Rob to attend school on a half-day basis only. Rob considered himself lucky and did his best to balance both his work and his learning. He was mature for his age and seemed to carry the weight of the world on his shoulders. Bessie admired those qualities in Rob Allen and she had written him a love letter. Bessie's father had found the letter and showed it to John Spencer. John had been very hurt, but later forgave Bessie and continued to court her. Bessie and John seemed to have drifted apart in recent months. John had become very enamoured of Christy, and it made Bessie jealous. By publicly accusing Christy of meeting John Spencer in the moonlight, Bessie had driven John further away. Bessie wasn't sure if John would ever love her again. She trembled as she remembered his words to her, "All we ever had was built on lies.......no stronger than a spider's web." Ruby Mae was sweet on Rob Allen now. It seemed like every conversation started and ended with the topic of Rob Allen. Bessie turned to Ruby Mae. "If Rob did become a writer man and moved to the level lands, would you ever leave the cove?" "Mmmmmmmm, would be right nice to see the rest of the world." Ruby Mae smiled at the possibilities. "David!!" Dr. Ferrand's booming voice made the girls jump. David and Prince made their way to Dr. Ferrand, not knowing what to expect. "I have a list a mile long and not much time to do it." Dr. Ferrand had both of his hands on his hips. "I'll put Prince in the barn and I can meet you in the mission house," David said. "I can do it, Preacher." Sam Houston jumped at any opportunity to care for the magnificent horse. David dismounted and handed the reins to the small boy. "All right. Not too much sweet feed. We don't want Prince to get fat." David smiled at Sam Houston and tousled the boy's hair. "Yes, sir." Sam Houston led Prince away, along with a small crowd of children following close behind. David followed Dr. Ferrand to the mission house. Christy sighed and looked towards the mountains. There was an uneasiness welling up inside her. She took a deep breath of mountain air and tried to ease the worry into peacefulness. ****** "How can you have let all these repairs go unattended?!!" Dr. Ferrand's voice shook the walls. "I have been attending to my congregation during hardships and sickness!" David's voice matched Dr. Ferrand's. "Why are you still fussing over those telephone lines when your attention is needed here?" Dr. Ferrand demanded. "I'm doing my best to safeguard 'everything' that I have built!" David stood his ground. Dr. Ferrand nodded his head in acknowledgement. He looked into David's determined face, turned, and walked away. David leaned against the wall and closed his eyes. ****** "Jacob, may I have an opportunity with thee?" Miss Alice asked quietly, waiting in the doorway. Dr. Ferrand looked up at her. Miss Alice came in and sat down next to him. "I had such high hopes for this mission," Dr. Ferrand sighed. "What is troubling thee, Jacob?" Miss Alice placed her hands over his hands. "Not to worry, Alice." Dr. Ferrand smiled. "Something is very wrong. Jacob, please tell me," Miss Alice pleaded. "Our funds have been severely depleted." Dr. Ferrand looked at Miss Alice with sorrow on his face. "We may have to close this mission." Miss Alice gasped. "No. Surely, Jacob, there must be a way." "We can always hope for a miracle." Dr. Ferrand embraced Miss Alice. ****** As soon as school was out, Christy went looking for David. She found him working at the table outside of his bunkhouse. There were crumpled balls of paper all around him. He seemed frustrated and as Christy approached, he tore up his most recent work. "David, are you all right?" She climbed the steps onto the porch. "It's not good enough." David pushed himself away from the table and started picking up the balls of paper. Christy knelt down and helped him. They deposited all the paper balls onto the table. David looked at the debris. "I know that I shouldn't be wasteful. I have worked so hard and have tried my best. It's not good enough.........not for Dr. Ferrand." Christy took David's hand. "David, don't lose heart. I know that Dr. Ferrand can be harsh and he can be so.......disapproving. Your efforts here have been tremendous. You have served this cove amidst scarlet fever and a bad fall harvest. There is a bell in the church that you built, brought here by the people that you have touched here." She squeezed his hand. "I think that Dr. Ferrand just wants to be personally involved in his mission and he doesn't realize it when he steps on everyone's toes. Please, don't give up." David pulled Christy into his arms and they embraced. Chapter Four When Bessie's leg wound had nearly healed, Doctor MacNeill arrived at the schoolhouse to remove her stitches. As soon as Christy dismissed the class for the day, the children bounded out of the school. Neil waited patiently until the stream of children had lessened before walking up the steps. He smiled at Zady and Bessie and asked them to wait for him outside the school. Neil headed over to Christy, who was erasing the blackboard. "Good afternoon, Miss Huddleston." "Good afternoon, Doctor." She smiled at him. "Some of my patients have paid me in cornbread and preserves. I was going to take some to Hattie after I've finished up at the mission house. I know that she would love to see you. Would you care to join me?" Christy put the eraser down and brushed away a lock of hair that had fallen into her eyes. She moved closer to Neil and whispered, "I'm not sure that I should leave, especially with Dr. Ferrand here." Neil saw that Christy had a streak of chalk residue where she had touched her face. He was tempted to wipe it away, but at the mention of Dr. Ferrand's name he elected not to. "You have some chalk on your face, there," Neil pointed it out to her. "Oh, is that better?" Christy tried to wipe it away, but only managed to get more chalk on her face. Neil tried to stifle the chuckles rising up in his chest, but Christy saw the laughter in his eyes. She looked down at her hands that were covered in chalk dust. "I'm glad that you find me amusing, Neil." Neil pulled out a piece of cloth from his pocket and started wiping her hands with it. Christy felt like a small child that was being cleaned up by an adult. She felt her cheeks become warm and she knew they were turning red. Neil stuffed the cloth back into his pocket and looked about the room to make sure that they were alone. He took Christy's face in his hands and gently wiped away the chalk from her cheeks with his fingers. Christy closed her eyes and felt herself soften into his gentle caresses. When he was finished, Neil still held Christy's face in his hands. Christy's heart began to race as she looked at Neil. Neil bent his head closer to Christy's and he looked into her eyes. Christy had kissed David before, but as the possibility of kissing Neil drew closer, she found it hard to breathe, hard to think.......... Neil brushed his lips against Christy's in a soft kiss. He pulled back to see Christy's reaction. Christy felt faint and unsteady. She reached onto his arms for support. Neil embraced her closer to him. He whispered to her, "If I can get Dr. Ferrand's permission, will you come to Hattie's with me?" Christy didn't know what to say. She was worried that someone might walk in on them, but she couldn't bring herself to move away from Neil. She could feel his heart beating inside his chest and his warmth that encompassed her. She looked up at him and nodded. Neil bent down and kissed her nose. "Bessie and Zady are waiting for me. I'll come and find you when I'm finished." Christy nodded. She couldn't think of words to say. Neil moved away from her and gently clasped her hands inside his own before parting from her. She watched him walk out of the school. ****** Neil found Bessie waiting for him. "Where's Zady?" he asked. Bessie answered, "She went on to the mission house. She said you wouldn't mind none." Neil nodded. "Shall we go now?" Neil walked with Bessie toward the mission house. John Spencer watched them. Ever since he had seen Neil carry Bessie into the schoolhouse the day that she injured her leg, John's emotions were in turmoil. He was fairly certain that he didn't care what happened to Bessie one way or the other, but to see another man pay attention to her was hard to ignore. Doctor MacNeill had been to the school almost every day to care for her. It didn't sit right with John. He slowly headed for home. Chores were waiting. Neil and Bessie entered the mission house. Zady had all the medical equipment ready for Neil on the table. "Thank you, Zady. You've done very well," Neil complimented her. Zady Spencer was one of Christy's best students, excelling especially in science and mathematics. Christy had asked Doctor MacNeill for assistance in providing more challenging lessons for Zady, as Zady's quest for more knowledge seemed insatiable. Doctor MacNeill had been pleased with Zady's progress under his tutorship. Zady began sitting in on medical lessons that Doctor MacNeill gave to Daniel Scott. Zady never interrupted them, but wrote down her questions to ask Doctor MacNeill at a more opportune time. Doctor MacNeill allowed Zady to accompany him and Dan on some simple medical visits, but only if the patients were willing and there was minimal risk involved regarding Zady's health. Neil set out some chairs for Bessie and Zady. He washed up at the basin and got ready to work. Zady and Bessie looked on with avid interest as he removed Bessie's bandage and the stitches. He cleaned the wound and put a new bandage over it. "That's all there is to it," Neil smiled at the two girls. He addressed Bessie, "You should be as good as new in no time. Just be sure to keep changing the bandage like I showed you. In a few days, you shouldn't need to bandage it at all." Neil stood up and started cleaning up. Zady collected the old bandage and the used supplies. She left the room to dispose of the debris. "Doc, kin I ask you a question?" Bessie inquired. "Of course, Bessie," Doctor MacNeill turned to look at her. "Could you learn me some of those science lessons, like the ones ya give to Zady?" Neil was surprised. He didn't say anything at first. He folded his arms across his chest and asked her, "Why do you want to learn?" "I want the chance to be good at something. I want the chance to be something more......" Bessie hesitated. "Well, why don't I give it some thought first." Neil continued to collect the medical supplies. "If you like, you can help me clean these instruments." Bessie nodded and followed his instructions. Fairlight and Zady Spencer came in with some clean sheets and blankets to put away. "Hello, Fairlight. How are you on this beautiful day?" Neil asked. "Just fine, Neil," Fairlight smiled and put the items away. She came over to stand next to her daughter, Zady. "What is it you're learning, now?" Fairlight ran her hands through Zady's hair. "How to take stitches out, Momma," Zady answered. "I thought I would show the girls some of the medical supplies and talk about what each item is used for. Zady already knows quite a few. Perhaps, I'll give her a quiz." Neil smiled mischievously. "It's right nice of you taking the time to teach them. Never know when it might be useful." Fairlight started to leave. "I'm almost finished with the chores here. We can go home whenever you're ready, Zady." "Yes, Momma." "Shall we begin?" Doctor MacNeill asked. The two girls gave Neil their undivided attention. Chapter Five Summary of Chapter Four: Neil and Christy kiss in the schoolhouse. Neil removes Bessie's stitches and spends time tutoring Zady and Bessie. ******* Dr. Ferrand and David were mending the fence of the vegetable garden when Neil found them. "Dr. MacNeill, how is Bessie today?" Dr. Ferrand asked. "I took the stitches out. She should be running around again soon," Dr. MacNeill replied. "I'm going to be taking some supplies to Hattie's. I've asked Miss Huddleston to come with me, if it's all right with you." "David, hold on to the wire tight," Dr. Ferrand commanded as he pulled on the wire and secured it to the wooden post. He stood up straight, arched his back, and looked at Neil. "I miss Hattie's singing. I'd like to arrange a singing at the mission. Will you ask her if she's willing?" Dr. Ferrand wiped the sweat from his brow. "Of course." Neil nodded. "Good." Dr. Ferrand moved to the next fence post and gestured to David, "More wire, David." David picked up the spool and unwound some wire from it. He gave Neil a wary look. Neil watched Dr. Ferrand go back to his work. He glanced at David, put his hands in his pocket, and made his way to the schoolhouse. ****** Christy was trying to organize lessons, but she was having a difficult time concentrating. Her heart hadn't stopped pounding since Neil had kissed her. She couldn't sit still and she looked up at every little noise. Christy took a deep breath. "Why am I so confused about this man?" She heard footsteps. She held her breath as Neil came into the school. She watched him walk up the aisle. Christy asked, "What did Dr. Ferrand say?" "He didn't say, 'No.'" Neil stood next to her. "Did you still want to go?" "Yes. I would love to see Miss Hattie." Christy stood up and walked outside with Neil to his horse, Charlie. Neil untied the reins and gracefully swung himself up onto Charlie's back. Neil reached down and pulled Christy into the saddle behind him. As they rode away, Miss Alice watched them. ****** Christy settled into the rhythm of Charlie's gait and leaned closer against Neil. "Are you all right? You've been very quiet," Neil turned his head to look back at her. Christy smiled at him. "You still baffle me, Doctor." "Doctor, is it?" Neil laughed. "Well, then.....as your doctor, I prescribe many more rides around this beautiful cove with me and perhaps your symptoms will lessen." "Lessen? I would think that would only increase the problem!" Christy answered back. "How so, Miss Huddleston?" Neil tried to get Christy to elaborate. "It would......well, I think.......but you.......why?" Christy hesitated. "Why did you do it?" "Do what?" "Why did you kiss me?" she asked shyly. Neil didn't say anything at first. "Would you rather I had not.......kissed you?" he asked softly. Christy tried to figure out how she felt about that. "I'm not sure. That's why I'm baffled." Neil stopped Charlie and dismounted. He guided Charlie off the path and secured him in a grassy area. He extended his hand to Christy. Christy took it and let Neil help her down from the saddle. Still holding onto her hand, Neil led her up the mountain. "Where are we going?" Christy asked. "You'll see," Neil replied. Neil led her through an opening amongst the shrubbery and trees to a precipice that displayed the neighboring mountains in glorious magnificence. Christy gasped in wonder. Many of the flowering trees were in bloom and a flourish of color decorated the mountainsides. Neil stood close behind her. "It's so beautiful," Christy said in amazement. "It is," Neil acknowledged. "It's a process that can't be rushed. Everything unfolds and develops in its proper time. These trees are blooming now, but it took an incredible amount of energy and effort to reach this point." "Neil, what do you mean?" Christy asked. "It's been a long, hard winter. These trees have been dormant for many months. At the first sign of spring, they set out their leaves and try to get as much nourishment as possible to obtain the energy necessary to flower and bear fruit." Christy looked up at Neil. He was looking at the picturesque view. Christy asked, "Why did you kiss me, Neil?" Neil lowered his gaze to meet hers. "How could I not?" He gently stroked her face. "Christy..........do you want me to stop?" "I'm not sure that I know what I want." Neil dropped his gaze and turned back to look at the mountains. "Neil, I 'do' know that I enjoy your company and I do have special feelings for you. I would like to spend time riding around the cove with you, but I don't want to hurt you.....like I hurt David by turning down his proposal." Christy paused and took a deep breath. She shivered as Neil turned back to look at her. Christy continued, "I came here to teach school, but I couldn't have gotten through the tough times without you." Christy smiled at Neil and playfully added, "Come to think of it, I think maybe you were the instigator of some of those tough times. You're always challenging me." Neil smiled and touched her cheek. "I didn't mean to make things hard for you." "Yes, you did," Christy replied. Neil laughed. He looked towards the descending sun that was heading for the mountains. "We'd better get to Hattie's. I'd like to get you back to the mission before it gets too dark." Christy started walking down the mountain. "Careful!" Neil stopped her and guided her back a step. Christy hadn't seen the large spider's web, but she had almost come close enough to destroy it by accident. She admired it with Neil. "The patterns are so intricate," Christy noted. "Another wonder of nature that took a lot of time and effort to produce," Neil affirmed. "Yes, but I almost destroyed it," Christy pointed out. "Spiders are resilient creatures. It would have started again and spun another web just as beautiful as the first one." Christy smiled and reached for Neil's hand. He intertwined his fingers with hers and they walked back to Charlie. ****** "Hattie! We've come to visit!" Neil called out. Hattie walked out onto the porch. "Neil!" "I've brought Miss Huddleston to see you, too." Neil informed her. Christy ran up to greet Hattie. "Hello, Miss Hattie." Hattie hugged Christy. "Come in, come in. Don't be shy, now." "I've brought some cornbread and preserves." Neil brought his saddlebags inside. "There's more than enough to share with your animal friends, too," Neil laughed lightheartedly as he set them on the table and took some dishes off Hattie's shelf. "They always welcome your visits, as I do," Hattie said as she sat down. "Tell me the latest news." Neil thought for a moment. "Ben Pentland sprained his wrist trying to grab hold of a runaway horse. It hasn't stopped him from his duties, though." Hattie chastised, "Oh, Neil......that's old news. Dan Scott has already told me about Ben Pentland's sprain, Isaac McHone's spider bite, and Smith O'Teales's cough." Neil raised his eyebrows as he handed Hattie some cornbread with preserves. "Well, then it's apparent that you don't need me for your medical news." "Tell me about Bessie Coburn. John Spencer rarely speaks of her anymore. What's happened between them?" Hattie asked. "I don't think John has forgiven Bessie for hurting Christy with that false accusation." Neil passed Christy some cornbread and preserves. Hattie nodded. "Young love is a precious gift. It needn't be thrown away so easily." "I think that Bessie is trying to redefine herself. She's asked me to give her extra science lessons, like the ones I give to Zady," Neil said. Christy was surprised. "Really? When did this happen?" "This afternoon.....after Zady and I removed her stitches. Since Bessie had expressed an interest, she sat in on my medical lesson with Zady," Neil answered. Christy was puzzled. Bessie's attention in class often seemed to alternate from her schoolwork to other things. She certainly hadn't expressed an interest in science before. As if reading her mind, Neil leaned forward and said, "Individual science lessons may provide the direction she needs to move forward." "Neil, you're so busy. Can you take on another student?" Christy asked. "I've been thinking about it. I'm tutoring Zady anyway. What's the harm in allowing Bessie to sit in? If she loses interest, at least we gave her the chance to try something different. If she is able to keep with it, her concentration could improve in other subjects, too." Christy realized that Neil was asking for her approval. "I think it's a wonderful idea. Thank you, Neil." Hattie smiled. Neil looked around. "Hattie, I saw a stack of firewood outside. Did you want me to bring some inside?" Hattie replied, "Yes, that would be nice. Bird's Eye Taylor brought it for me." Christy and Neil said at once, "Bird's Eye Taylor!" "Mmmm, he's been stopping by, every now and then," Hattie said. Christy and Neil exchanged a look of mixed amusement and apprehension. "I'll be back, then." Neil made his way outside. Hattie smiled and said, "Miss Christy, I've been meaning to ask you something. I've been noticin' a change in Neil. Have you noticed it, too?" Hattie turned her face to Christy. "What do you mean, Miss Hattie?" "He's always cared for other folks, bein' the good doctor that he is. He's held back......tried not to get too close to anyone. But now...... with him teachin' those young 'uns and Dan, he's all lit up inside." Hattie reached out her hand and Christy took it into hers. "It's because of you, too, Miss Christy. You're good for him." Christy felt her cheeks start to get warm again. Miss Hattie had given her a compliment. Her stomach started to flutter. Christy confessed, "Miss Hattie, I'm so confused." Chapter Six Summary of Chapter Five: Neil takes Christy to visit Hattie McCabe. Christy is confused about her feelings. Christy moved closer to Hattie and whispered, "David proposed to me. I told him that I wasn't ready to get married. He said he wasn't going to give up." Hattie nodded. Christy was reluctant to say more. Neil was Hattie's nephew and Hattie's only remaining family member in the world. Christy became worried about confessing her confusion, but Hattie might be able to help her. Christy decided to continue. "Neil kissed me today. I don't know what to do." Hattie smiled. "You've got two fellas aimed at courtin' you. Don't you worry none. Your heart will know where it lies." "I don't want to hurt either one of them." "Reckon that it cain't be helped sometimes. The reverend is a good man, a right good man. Neil MacNeill cares for you very much. I can tell. Miss Christy, what's your hurry? Must you choose between them today?" Christy and Hattie started to laugh together. "No, I suppose not," Christy said. "Just enjoy the time you spend with them. You'll know when the time is right." Neil came in with a large load of firewood. It was almost too much for him to carry. The load started to totter. He leaned in one direction and then the other in an attempt to balance the load. Christy leapt up to help him, but Neil warned her, "No! Don't come too close!" Christy stayed back. Neil edged towards the fireplace, bent at the knees, and deposited the load of firewood in a tumble. He smiled sheepishly as he brushed the shavings and bark chips from his clothes. "I hate to cut this short, but I'd like to get Miss Huddleston back to the mission," Neil said. Hattie stood up. Christy embraced her saying, "Thank you, Miss Hattie, for everything." "Ah, I didn't do much. Come back for a visit soon." Neil came over to Hattie and kissed her on the forehead. "Dr. Ferrand would like you to lead a singing at the mission. He wants to know if you're interested." "You tell him that I'd be pleased to do it," Hattie replied. Neil gave Hattie a hug and gave Christy a smile. He walked over to the table and slung his saddlebags over his shoulder. He extended his hand to Christy and she took it. Neil looked at Hattie and said, "Until next time, then." Hattie waved. Neil led Christy outside. The evening air was crisp and getting colder quickly. Christy wrapped her arms around herself as she watched Neil secure the saddlebags. Neil glanced up at her and asked, "Are you cold?" Christy nodded. Neil removed his coat and draped it around her shoulders. It was warm with his body heat. Christy stuck her arms through the sleeves and found that the sleeves were too long. Christy laughed as she flopped the ends of the sleeves about. Neil shook his head and pushed the sleeves up her arms so that Christy's hands were exposed beyond the cuffs. "I'm going to need you to hang on to me. I'd rather not reach the mission only to discover you've tumbled off down the mountain to God knows where when I wasn't looking." Christy reached up and embraced Neil. "Thank you for caring about me." Still holding her tightly in his arms, Neil whispered, "It's my pleasure, Christy." ****** "That's too much! You're gonna make him too fat!" Sam Houston told Little Burl. "Have to. No crow's gonna be scared by a skinny......whad ya call him, Preacher?" Little Burl looked up to David. "A scarecrow, Little Burl." Christy approached them, surveying the cluttered area of straw and clothing. "What are all of you doing?" David smiled at her as both boys began speaking at once. Sam Houston gave Little Burl a stern look until Burl conceded. "Teacher, we're helping Preacher make a scarecrow." Sam Houston had a very serious expression on his face and Christy tried to hide her smile of amusement. "Would you be skeered of him, Teacher?" Burl asked. Sam Houston retorted, "He ain't done yit." Christy moved closer to David with an inquisitive look. David held up a large shirt against himself and asked, "What do you think?" "I don't think it's going to fit you very well," Christy teased. "How about this, then?" David put the shirt down and picked up a top hat. He placed it at a slight angle on his head and slid his fingers along its brim in a quick, suave gesture. David smiled at Christy. The boys stopped their work in stuffing the scarecrow's trousers to gaze in awe at the minister. "Goll...ley," Little Burl said softly. David explained to Christy, "I'm putting the donations from your family's church to good use. Dr. Ferrand and I have managed to keep the pigs out of the garden, but not the crows. They're eating our bounty before it's even ripe. It'll be a miracle if there's going to be anything left for us." "It's nice of you to let Sam Houston and Little Burl to help you," Christy said as she picked a stray strand of straw out of Little Burl's hair. "I couldn't stop them." David smiled as he gracefully knocked the hat from his head and bumped it up into the air. David stepped back with one leg and extended his arm at a downward angle. The hat's brim landed on his forearm and rolled down the length of it. Once it reached his outstretched hand, David grasped it and spun around to bow gallantly in front of Christy. Christy chuckled and curtsied in response. "Wowee, Preacher!" Creed Allen and Zach Holt came running up. "Could we have a try, Preacher?" Creed asked. "Only if you help build the scarecrow. Here you can start stuffing this shirt with straw," David handed them the shirt. Sam Houston eyed the invaders with suspicion and stuffed more straw into the scarecrow's trousers. ****** Bessie started shuffling through her notes from Dr. MacNeill's lessons. She started on her way to his cabin by herself because Zady decided to help her mother bottle honey in lieu of a science lesson. Bessie saw John Spencer just ahead of her and she quickened her pace to catch up to him. Ruby Mae and Lizette Holcomb approached Bessie from behind teasing her, "Where ya runnin' off to in such a hurry?" Bessie replied, "I'm goin' to Doc MacNeill's fer my lesson." Ruby Mae started singing, "Bessie and the Doc were sittin' in a tree, K. I. S. S. I. N. G.!" Lizette and Ruby Mae started laughing. "So when's the weddin', Bessie?" Lizette asked in her husky voice. Bessie stopped and turned to face them, "Stop yer foolishness!" "Might be best if'n you can git the Doc to marry you. Lord knows that John don't love you no more," Lizette said. Bessie was flabbergasted. Tears started to form in her eyes. She said with a sharp tone in her voice, "Don't see no fellers courtin' you, Lizette Holcomb. You best be mindin' yer own business!" "Can't see why you're so sour. You used to be more fun," Ruby Mae said. Lizette taunted, "Go on to the Doc's. Don't matter what he learns ya. Ya'll never be as smart as Zady anyhows." Lizette took Ruby Mae by the arm and they ran off together laughing. Bessie wiped the tears from her eyes and started to run towards Neil's cabin. ****** Whish! Whir! Whish! Whir! Plip. Neil and his fishing pole danced their graceful dance. Bessie quietly approached him. "Doc?" she whispered. "Good afternoon, Bessie," Neil answered without taking his eyes off the stream. "Zady couldn't come today," Bessie said. "Yes, she told me." Bessie leaned against a nearby tree and watched him fish. Neil looked over at her and asked, "Have you ever fished before?" Bessie shook her head. "Fishing is a very valuable skill. Not only will it put food on the table, it will help clear your mind. The whole world quiets down and there's only you and the river. It's not as easy as it looks, however. You have to learn how to read the river. It changes from day to day, from storm to storm. The river is forever carving itself into a new direction." Neil stepped out of the stream and came to stand next to Bessie to continue his lesson, "You see there, behind that log...........the river's force rushes the water around the log to the left, but the water is calm on the protected side. That's where the fish rest, in those small pools of calm water." "What did you mean that it changes....day ta day, storm ta storm? Ain't it goin' ta be the same tomorrow?" Bessie asked. "Maybe, maybe not. A tree branch could fall off that tree, land in the river, and create a bigger pool over there. If it rains tomorrow, there will be more water running into the river, right? The more water that enters the river, the faster the river will flow. If there's a big storm, the water will move fast enough to move this log right out of that spot. Whoosh! The pool will be gone. The river could grow wider and the water could reach to where we're standing right now." "What happens to the fish?" "They move with the flow. They have no choice." Neil looked over at Bessie. "Don't worry. The fish that are swimming here could end up 20 miles downstream, but I'm sure there are some upstream that would find their way here. Are you ready to try?" "Me?" "Of course, you! This is your science lesson. You aren't going to catch anything just standing there gawking. Come on!" Neil pulled her closer to the stream, handed her the fishing rod, and stood behind her to guide her through the motions. ****** John Spencer scowled as he watched them. He couldn't believe his eyes. "Ruby Mae and Lizette were right. Bessie and the Doc were sweet on each other," John thought to himself. "What man teaches a gal to fish? Gals don't fish!" John said under his breath. John couldn't take his eyes off them. He moved closer, but carefully hid himself so he wouldn't be discovered. "How could this have happened?" John had a sinking feeling in the pit of his stomach. Chapter Seven Summary of Chapter Six: Miss Hattie comforts Christy. David and the children build a scarecrow. John Spencer overhears Ruby Mae and Lizette Holcomb teasing Bessie about her meetings with Dr. MacNeill. John concludes that Neil is courting Bessie when he spies Neil giving Bessie a fishing lesson. Bessie felt a tug on the line. "Doc!" she exclaimed in a worried, yet excited voice. Neil encircled his arms around Bessie and placed his hands over hers on the fishing rod. "Careful now.....gently let him take the line out." Bessie watched as the fishing line took on a life of it's own, extending further and further out. Click. Neil adjusted the reel so it stopped releasing fishing line. He whispered sternly, "Now, yank up!" They pulled up on the rod quickly and hooked the fish, which now started to fight with them. "Reel him in!" Neil commanded. Bessie cranked at the reel, but the fish was so strong that it started to pull her into the water. Neil held her firmly against him to keep her from venturing further into the stream. Bessie kept wondering if Neil would take the fishing rod from her and bring the fish in himself. As the rod bent further and further from the weight of the fish, she glanced at Neil questioningly. "Steady.......keep reeling. You're doing fine." Neil was looking with anticipation at the water, waiting for the fish to break the surface. Bessie's hands were starting to hurt and her arms were getting sore from the consistent tension of the line. Neil pointed, "There! I see it!" Bessie looked over in the direction that Neil indicated. She watched with amazement as the fish came flying up out of the water in angry defiance before it dove back to take refuge in the river's water again. Bessie cranked the reel with new enthusiasm and determination. Her first fish! She was so close! She thought the fishing rod might break in half as it bent even further. Bessie found that by moving the fishing rod lower and closer to her body, she had more leverage and could use her strength more effectively. After what seemed like an eternity, Bessie finally won the battle. She pulled the fish out of the water and breathlessly gazed upon it as it struggled in the air, dangling from the clear fishing line. Neil deftly removed it from the line and quickly killed it. "Unless you're going to release them right away, it's best not to let them suffer too long." He handed the fish to Bessie. Bessie held the fish and admired it. The fish's colors were so pretty, gleaming silver and pink. Neil washed his hands in the river water and pointed to the fish. "You've caught yourself a very large rainbow trout. There are brook trout in this stream, too. They're more brown and red in color." Neil smiled at her and shook his head. "You know people could fish for years and not catch something this significant. You are a lucky and talented girl! You've done wonderfully well on your first try!" Bessie's heart swelled with pride. No one ever treated her the way that Neil did. She hadn't ever felt this way. She felt her cheeks get hot. Neil collected his net and fishing basket. "You can take that beauty home to your family for dinner, if you'd like." Bessie thought for a moment. How would she explain to her father that she had been fishing with Doctor MacNeill? Her father knew that Neil tutored her and Zady Spencer for school, but fishing with Neil might not be considered acceptable behavior. "Kin I cook it fer you, instead?" Bessie looked at Neil hopefully. Neil gave her a big smile. "I never turn down a home-cooked meal." ****** John watched Neil and Bessie enter the cabin. He felt sick. His head was spinning. He thought back to earlier days....when Bessie and him were like two peas in a pod. They used to hold hands, make music together, and steal kisses. It had been so long. He missed those special moments. John thought about his romantic feelings for Miss Christy. They seemed so strong. It had flattered him to know that she had so much faith in him and his music. He could see now that Miss Christy was only being a good teacher and had no heart feelings for him. They never held hands, made music, or even kissed once. He had hurt Bessie terribly in pursuing Miss Christy's affection. Bessie had hurt him by spreading a lie throughout the cove that he and Teacher were meeting secretly at night. His own parents doubted him when he told them Bessie was lying. Uncle Bogg closed the school. John couldn't forgive Bessie for what she had done and vowed not to let her forget it. It was Doc MacNeill that stood up for Miss Christy. No one believed John Spencer, but one word from the doc and they believed it as truth. The doc saw how special Bessie was and John feared that he had lost Bessie forever. He felt so defeated. He had forsaken his true love. Nothing would be the same again. He wasn't as smart as the doc or as worldly. The doc saved lives and was a hero to all the cove. How could he ever compete with that? There was no way. He couldn't take it anymore. "No sense sittin' here watching the woman I love start lovin' somebody else." John took off at a run, as fast as he could. Didn't matter where he went.....as long as it wasn't here. ****** Bessie looked over at Neil as he was eagerly devouring his dinner. He had been so thoughtful, making sure that she had everything she could possibly need to make a meal. Neil seemed to have it all. He had a wide assortment of vegetables, fresh and preserved. He also had pans and pans of cornbread and gingerbread, more than just one man could eat. Most likely, Neil received his abundant bounty as payment from his grateful patients. Surely, he was the richest man in the cove. She marveled at how clean his dishes were, and yet, the rest of his cabin was so....cluttered. He could obviously use a woman's help. ****** Christy loved looking in Iris McHone's eyes and wondering what her godchild was thinking. The baby laughed and gurgled happy sounds. Her eyes were so bright and full of hope. She smelled so sweet. Christy held the baby's plump hand in hers. Iris was growing larger every day. Christy remembered how tiny the baby was when the children found her abandoned near the school. She fell in love with Iris the moment she laid eyes on her. She had even considered accepting David's proposal of marriage so that they could raise the baby. Iris started to struggle against Christy and to protest vocally. Christy tried to soothe her by cooing baby sounds. It didn't work. Iris began to wail at the top of her lungs. Christy didn't know what she should do. Opal McHone gently took the baby from Christy and placed Iris on the floor of the cabin. The baby's mood changed instantly and she began to crawl about the floor in earnest. Opal smoothed her hands on her apron. "I've never seen a young 'un move about so much! I swear! Not any of my boys were like her at 'tall. She plumb tires me out!" Christy inwardly cringed to see Iris moving about on the floor. Opal worked so hard for her family, but the cabin floor wasn't as clean as it could be. Christy tried to reassure herself that the mountain families have managed for years without clean floors. When Neil and Fairlight were babies, they must have crawled upon many unkempt cabin floors and they turned out all right. Christy took a deep breath. If she had married David and adopted Iris, they would have raised the baby differently. Christy wondered if that would have been a good thing. How would Iris fit into the cove, then? Would she feel like an outsider, having grown up with different standards than the cove families? The front door flew open and all of the McHone boys came barreling in. Iris squealed in delight. Christy watched as Toot handed his mother a small handful of flowers. "Where did you git these, and so far into the year?" Opal asked her son. Toot just smiled and looked at his feet. "These are for you, Miss Christy." Isaac handed her a small bouquet, as well. Christy smiled and accepted them gratefully. "Thank you, Isaac. They're beautiful." Vincent came over to them, carrying Iris in his arms. "They was supposed to be fer Iris, but she'd just eat them flowers." "Yes, you're probably right," Christy agreed. Isaac started gently tickling Iris. She started to laugh and kick at Vincent. Vincent held her firmly and Toot ran over to join in the fun. Christy thought to herself, "Iris was never meant to be raised by me and David. She belongs here with the McHones. This is what God intended." Chapter Eight Summary of Chapter Seven: Bessie catches her first fish and she cooks it for Neil. John Spencer realizes that Bessie is his true love, but fears that he has lost her to Dr. MacNeill. Christy spends some time with Iris and the McHone family. Author: Elena Email: eseto@email.sjsu.edu After several months of accompanying Neil and Dan as they tended to patients around the cove, Zady and Bessie were gaining valuable experience by becoming more knowledgeable in the medical field. Their excitement for learning only seemed to increase over time. They were beginning to see themselves as possibly being the next Granny Barclay and Miss Alice of their generation. It was no longer unusual to see the foursome traveling together with Bessie riding behind Neil on Charlie and Zady behind Dan on his horse. "How long do ya think it'll be till Will Holt kin walk without them crutches?" Bessie asked over Neil's shoulder. "Possibly a few weeks. Maybe longer," Neil answered. Dan asked, "With the way that boy gets around, do you think he'll rest long enough to give his leg time to heal?" "That's where the 'Maybe longer' comes in," Neil reiterated with a chuckle. "Look there, yonder," Zady pointed to the darkening sky. "That be a storm brewin'." Neil and Dan stopped the horses and scanned the horizon. "Best get you home, then," Dan looked back at Zady. He turned to Neil and said, "I don't like the looks of it. Could be a major storm." Neil nodded in agreement. "We better head back. I don't want to get caught up in it. I'll take Bessie home and we can meet up again after it's blown over." "Doc, I left my schoolbooks in yer cabin," Bessie said. Neil turned Charlie around in the opposite direction and with obvious concern in his voice said, "Dan and Zady, be careful." Dan and Zady nodded solemnly before departing. Neil had Charlie running at a full gallop towards his cabin with Bessie holding onto Neil as tightly as she could. ****** "I'm sorry. I have done all that I can think to do, but there is no other way." Dr. Ferrand looked at Christy and David apologetically. Christy and David stared at him dumbfounded in return. The mission was going to close. Dr. Ferrand could no longer support it with the limited funding he had. Miss Alice placed one of her hands over Christy's. "We can try to place you at another mission, if that is what you desire." "Another mission? Where?" Christy asked. "Possibly Arkansas. Do you think that might be something you would be interested in?" Dr. Ferrand asked. Christy tried to think carefully before answering. The thought of leaving the children here, of starting somewhere new, was that what she wanted? What would happen to the families here? Christy looked at David. She could see from his furrowed brow that he had questions, too. Christy asked, "Would we all be able to move to another mission? Together?" Dr. Ferrand ran his fingers through his hair. "I'm already having to close the missions in Cataleechie and Big Lick Spring. I have a minister in Kentucky that would like to retire and I know of a teaching position that may open up in a few months in Arkansas. You will have to give me your decisions soon. If you don't accept, I will have to offer these positions to the staff at the other missions that are closing." He stopped and took a deep breath before continuing. "The reality is that I cannot close the missions with the largest congregations. I have to maximize the points at which we can make the most difference." Christy looked at Miss Alice. "What will you do?" Miss Alice smiled. "I have for many years always harbored the wish to explore the rest of this country. Perhaps now, I will have that chance. I will be helping Dr. Ferrand's other missions, as I am needed." "Is this effective......immediately?" David asked. "We'll have a month to close down the mission," Dr. Ferrand said sadly. Christy fought the tears that wanted to surface. It was imperative that she remained professional. She didn't want to make it harder for anyone. Miss Alice reached out and took hold of one of David's hands and one of Christy's. "No matter what happens, thee both shall always have a special place in my heart." She smiled warmly, moved towards them, and clasped their hands over her heart. Christy's eyes filled with tears that she couldn't hold back any longer. Her emotions got stuck in her chest and a small noise escaped from her throat before she could stop it. Miss Alice embraced her tightly and rocked her gently. David and Dr. Ferrand regarded each other awkwardly, looking from each other to silently scrutinizing the imperfections in the wooden floor. ****** Christy examined her red eyes in the mirror. She poured some water into the wash basin and splashed some water on her face. She dabbed her face with a towel and looked at her reflection in the mirror again. Christy carefully removed the hairpins and her long hair fell down in cascading waves. She ran a brush through her hair slowly and methodically as she thought about what had just transpired. What would her parents say? Would they try to make her return home? She could hear her mother saying, "Christy, it just wasn't meant to be. You've tried it your way, now it's time for you to come home." What choice did she have? Christy tried to imagine herself at a new mission, working with new people. There would be no Mountie, no Creed, no Sam Houston, no Rob, no Zady, ........... Her heart sank further as she realized there would be no Neil MacNeill. Tears came to her eyes again. She sat up straight and put on a brave face in the mirror. She had come to Cutter Gap to make a positive difference, not knowing what to expect. She had made this place her home and was proud of all that she had accomplished. If it was God's will that she move to another mission, surely it would turn out as wonderful as the life she had made for herself here. It was her work that was important, wasn't it? Christy vowed, "I promise to do my best, wherever that might be." A soft knock at her door woke Christy from her determined resolve. "Come in," she called. The door opened and David peeked in. Christy smiled and opened the door wider to admit him inside. David entered the room. "Are you all right?" David asked quietly. Christy didn't say anything at first. When she did start to speak, her voice was shaky and strained as her repressed frustration started to emerge. "We've worked so hard here. We have made a difference. I've seen it. It doesn't seem fair. How can we leave now?" David picked up her hand and kissed it. He knelt down on the floor in front of Christy and extracted a ring from his pocket. He looked up at her confused face and said, "I want you to reconsider my proposal. It won't matter where we end up, but at least we'd be together." Chapter Nine Summary of Chapter Eight: Zady and Bessie have been accompanying Neil and Dan on medical visits for several months. Dr. Ferrand and Miss Alice told Christy and David that the mission will close in one month's time. David asked Christy to reconsider his marriage proposal. Author: Elena Email: eseto@email.sjsu.edu Christy looked at David in surprise. She had turned him down before. She wasn't ready, then. Was she ready now? Christy shook her head. David's hopeful anticipation quickly changed to disappointment. "David, I'm still not ready. I need time to think. I'm not sure about anything and I'm not ready to make a big decision like considering marriage right now." David stood up and put the ring back into his pocket. "Are you upset with me?" Christy asked. David looked her straight in the eye. "I want to marry you, Christy. There's not a single doubt in my mind. The fact that you don't feel the same way........." David couldn't say the words. Christy could see the anger and frustration on his face and it made her uncomfortable. What could she do to make it better? She placed one of her hands on his forearm. David pulled away from her in aggravation. David raised his voice. "Why is it that you don't know what you want?!!" Christy was taken aback. "I.......I don't know." David turned to leave. Christy grabbed his shirt and said sharply, "Maybe you don't have any doubts, but I do! I want to know that my life counts for something! I want to continue teaching! There's no guarantee if I marry you that I would be able to continue my work. I'm not sure what the responsibilities of a minister's wife include, but I'm fairly certain that I wouldn't be able to teach school in Kentucky." She looked away from him and said softly, "Dr. Ferrand would have mentioned it, if that were a possibility." "So teaching is more important to you than marrying me?" Christy looked at him with tears filling her eyes. "I'm just trying to be honest with you." "Tell me," David said, "If Neil MacNeill had proposed to you, would you consider staying here in Cutter Gap and marrying him? Even if it meant you couldn't teach school?" "What? Doctor MacNeill doesn't have anything to do with this." "Oh? I think he does." David said accusingly as he moved closer to her. Christy stepped backwards until she felt the bedroom wall stop her retreat. David placed his hands on the wall on either side of her and leaned in until their faces were almost touching. "Be honest with me, Christy. Is it that you don't want to get married or is it that you don't want to marry me?" Christy felt trapped. David was looking into her eyes so intently that she was afraid to look away. He was waiting for an answer, but she didn't have one to give him. "It's not that simple, David." David examined her face closely, trying to discern anything he could from her expression. "You can't even give me a straight answer. Is it because you don't want me to know your true feelings or because you don't know how you feel?" "I......" Christy started, but her senses were numb. Christy didn't know how to respond to David. Everything was pressing in on her at once. Her mind and heart were in a panic. They seemed like questions that she should know how to answer. "How do I make you feel, Christy? How does Neil MacNeill make you feel?" "David, please...." "Just give me an answer, Christy!" Christy pushed past David and ran out the open door. "Christy!" She heard David call her name, but it made her run faster down the stairs and out of the mission house. ****** Neil used a towel to dry off Charlie as best as he could. They had tried to beat the rain, but couldn't outrun it. The storm had descended upon them quickly and powerfully. Neil hoped that it would leave as quickly as it arrived. Kyle Coburn would be worried. He barely tolerated his daughter's after-school science lessons. It seemed that every time Neil ran into Kyle, Neil had to justify Bessie's progress and possible future in helping her family with the knowledge she was acquiring. This storm might be the turning point that Kyle was waiting for to pull his daughter out of the extra science lessons. Neil wouldn't be able to get Bessie home until after the storm blew over. Neil opened the barn door and looked out into the rain. It wasn't letting up. This rain was going to last a while. Neil took a last look around to make sure that Charlie had everything he needed before stepping out into the rain. Upon entering the cabin, Neil found that Bessie had started a fire and was stirring the contents of the pot that hung in the fireplace. She looked up and saw him. "Hope you like stew for dinner. Lord! Ain't you a sight! You best git out of those wet clothes afore ya catch yer death of cold!" Bessie helped him out of his coat and hung it next to hers near the fireplace to dry. Neil headed upstairs. Bessie brought out a pan of cornbread and a jug of moonshine. She set them on the table. She adjusted the plates and silverware until she was pleased with their appearance. Bessie went to check on the stew. The warmth of the fire had dried her clothes and hair somewhat, but they were still damp. She smoothed them with her fingers. Bessie sat down by the hearth and enjoyed its warmth. She could hear the storm raging outside. Bessie sighed in contentment. ****** Christy ran until the pain in her sides became unbearable. She leaned against a tree trunk and tried to catch her breath in giant gasps. When had it started raining? Christy was drenched, but her body was so hot that it welcomed the cold rain against her skin. Christy looked around her. It had gotten dark as well. What was she doing? She couldn't go back to the mission. She didn't want to face David and his barrage of questions. Maybe Fairlight could help her. Christy slowly started to make her way through the darkness. Chapter Ten Summary of Chapter Nine: Christy refuses David's proposal. David questions Christy about her feelings for Neil. Christy becomes frustrated and runs out of the mission. A powerful storm has kept Neil from taking Bessie home to her family. She cooks dinner for Neil at his cabin. Christy is caught in the storm. Author: Elena Email: eseto@email.sjsu.edu Christy shivered. She had become quite cold. Christy looked around her, trembling both from the cold rain and from her fear of the dark. The rain had turned the soil to mud. It was slippery and deep in some places. It had slowed Christy's progress considerably and she hated the feel of the sticky mud claiming possession of her feet with every step. The frequent lightning strikes would illuminate everything for an instant, but then she was lost in the dark again. She was so certain that the Spencer's cabin would be right here, but there was nothing that looked familiar anymore. It was too cold to stand still. Christy thought it best to keep moving. Hopefully, she would stumble onto familiar territory or some kind of shelter. Christy thought about David, his questions, and his feelings. He was so intense. If she really loved him, wouldn't she feel the same way? She did love and respect David, but not with the same intensity as he loved her. It wasn't enough for a marriage to succeed. David deserved better than what she could offer him. David was jealous of Neil. David had always felt this way. Christy couldn't recollect a time when Neil was jealous of David. Maybe Neil didn't love her as much as David did. Neil had never told her that he loved her. David seemed to say it all the time. Christy remembered kissing Neil in the schoolhouse. It had shaken Christy to the core of her being, but she wasn't sure if it was because she loved Neil or because it had been so unexpected. Christy thought about all the times she had gone to Neil.....for advice. He had always been there for her. He encouraged her and challenged her at the same time. It felt so contradictory and had always puzzled her. What would Neil say about the mission closing? He had been so busy, lately. Christy hadn't seen much of him at all. Lightning lit up the sky and Christy jumped. During the last thunderstorm, Christy and Becky O'Teale had taken refuge at Neil's cabin. Neil had gently soothed Becky's trachoma-irritated eyes. He also calmed their fears by telling them a beautiful legend about lost love. He made them both feel so safe. What Christy wouldn't give to be in his company, right now. ****** Neil eyed the moonshine jug on the table curiously. "Where did she find that?" he wondered. Bessie was spooning stew onto his plate. She set it down in front of him and cut him a square of cornbread from the pan. Neil asked, "How's school, Bessie?" "It's awright." Bessie placed the cornbread on his plate and sat down in her seat. Neil picked up his fork and sampled the stew. "It's good." Bessie smiled with pride. She took a deep breath. There was a question that she wanted to ask him. She wanted to ask it before she lost her nerve. "Must git awful lonely in this cabin all by yerself. Don't ya want to git married again?" Neil was silent as he pushed his fork through his stew. Bessie was almost sorry that she had asked the question. An uncomfortable silence settled between them. Neil looked up at her and said softly, "I have considered the possibility." "And?" "It's not the right time, just now." "Why? How come?" Neil thought of Christy. He hadn't spent much time with her, but he hadn't avoided her on purpose. "I suppose it's because......I've been too busy." Bessie nodded in understanding. She could see that his loneliness troubled him. She tried to lighten the mood. "Did ya see the look on Creed Allen's face today?" She started to laugh as she remembered Creed's look of horror. "I thought he was gonna faint dead away when ya told him his voice weren't gonna come back if'n he keeps talkin' the way he does." Neil smiled. "Laryngitis can be very serious. He needs to rest his vocal cords or the swelling will never subside." "I'm not sure he kin do it." Neil laughed and put a large forkful of stew into his mouth. Bessie leaned closer towards Neil. She spoke quickly and softly as if she were revealing a secret to Ruby Mae, "Ya needs somebody that understands ya. I kin holp ya, wit yer patients and with all the cookin' and cleanin'. We could git married right away and ya wouldn't be so busy all the time!" Neil started choking on his food. Bessie got up out of her chair and hovered over him in concern. "Keep up with yer coughin'. It'll clear out soon enough." She pushed a glass into his hand. "Here, drink this!" Neil took a big swallow. As his mouth and throat began to burn, he realized it was moonshine in the glass. His coughing became more aggressive. His face and neck turned bright red and he gripped the table's edge tightly with both hands. Bessie began patting him on the back and whispering reassurances to him as she silently willed him to stop coughing. ****** "David! Where is thee going? Can thy not see a major storm has come upon us?" Miss Alice tried to deter the minister from leaving the mission. "Christy's out there!" "Christy? Why would she go out there?" "I can't explain it, now. I have to find her." David ran out into the darkness and the rain. "Jacob!" Miss Alice was worried. "Jacob!" Dr. Ferrand came running into the room. "What is it?" "David's gone out to look for Christy in the storm! We have to go look for her, too!" "Get your coat and pack some supplies. If we are going out into this storm, we should be prepared." Miss Alice nodded and hurried with the preparations. Dr. Ferrand put on his coat and hat. He ran out to the barn to saddle the horses. Within a few minute's time, Miss Alice ran out to meet him. They mounted their horses and started out. "Where would she go?" Dr. Ferrand asked in a loud voice. Miss Alice thought for a moment. "Let's try Doctor MacNeill's" A sharp, loud cracking noise caught their attention and they turned back to look towards the mission. A lightning bolt had hit the telephone pole nearest to the mission house and sparks flew through the air like a dramatic fireworks display. The pole caught fire and burned brightly in spite of the rain. They watched in awe as the telephone pole tottered and fell towards the mission house. The pole crashed through the roof and the side wall, splintering wood and sending bits of fire in every direction. Miss Alice and Dr. Ferrand raced back to the mission as they heard Ruby Mae's screams from inside the house. ****** Christy's limbs were numb with cold. She couldn't feel her legs anymore and yet they still moved forward........one foot in front of the other. Her tears mixed with the rain. She didn't know how much longer she could go on. She was so tired. The lightning and thunder didn't startle her anymore. She prayed for the next lightning strike to show her the way to anything dry or warm. The lightning came and Christy saw a figure walking at quite a distance in front of her. Christy peered through the raindrops. Her heartbeat quickened. "Neil? Neil, is that you? I need you. I need your help!" The lightning had passed and he obviously couldn't hear her above the rain or see her in the dark. Christy started to run as fast as she could. She needed to be as close to him as possible or she'd lose him. She was getting dizzy. Her feet stumbled over obstructions in her path, but she didn't let them slow her down. At the next lightning strike, Christy called out, "Neil! Neil, help me! Please!" Still running, she extended her arms towards him. The figure turned around to look at her. It was Bird's Eye Taylor, carrying his shotgun in his hands. Christy screamed as she lost her footing and slid in the mud. Chapter Eleven Summary of Chapter Ten: Bessie suggests that she and Neil could get married. Neil starts choking on his food in surprise. His coughing worsens as he drinks the moonshine that Bessie hands him. Christy, who is lost in a severe rainstorm, runs into Bird's-Eye Taylor. David goes out to look for Christy. Dr. Ferrand and Miss Alice are about to join in the search for Christy, but are delayed when a telephone pole crashes into the mission house. Author: Elena Email: eseto@email.sjsu.edu "Ruby Mae! Ruby Mae, answer me!" Dr. Ferrand made his way through the mission house and started searching the damaged room. The bouncing light from a lantern caught his attention. He turned toward it. "Alice, I thought I told you to wait outside!" "Ruby Mae is my responsibility, as well. Thee cannot search for her in the dark. Take this." Miss Alice handed him the oil lantern. Dr. Ferrand shook his head at Miss Alice in resignation. He took the lantern from her and held it up high. The telephone pole had crashed into the kitchen area. Its length protruded into the heart of the room and was held up by a splintered portion of the remaining wall. The rains had extinguished the fire. Dr. Ferrand examined the scorched surfaces of the room and the ominous telephone pole that had invaded his mission. "She's not here, Alice." "Let us check upstairs. Perhaps she is hiding in her room." ****** Once the coughing subsided, Neil sat back in his chair, exhausted. Bessie tried to hand him another glass of fluid and he looked at her with suspicion. "It's jist water. Honest." Neil took the glass and drank slowly. "I kin take good care of you. Kin ya give me another chance?" Neil put the glass down on the table. Clearing his throat, he said in a slightly hoarse voice, "Bessie, I'm sure that you'll make somebody a wonderful wife ...... someday." He ran his fingers through his hair as he carefully chose his words. "There's so much more to marriage than just cooking, cleaning, and caring for someone. It takes.....passion and.....ummm......" Neil felt uncomfortable discussing this topic with Bessie. He thought a more direct approach would be best. Neil took Bessie's hand in his. "Bessie, I do care for you a great deal, but I can't marry you." Bessie felt tears come to her eyes. "You don't love me. John Spencer don't love me. Rob Allen don't love me. It weren't ... supposed ... to be this way." A thought came to her. Bessie looked up at him in realization and in a whispered, yet accusatory tone she said, "It's Teacher, ain't it?" Neil took his hand from her and looked down at the floor in admission. He remembered the last time Bessie had gotten jealous of Christy. Bessie saw Neil and Christy together on a moonlit evening, but thought Christy was meeting John Spencer. Bessie bore witness to the entire church congregation that Christy was involved in a sinful relationship with John Spencer. Christy was almost fired from her teaching position. Just as Neil predicted, Bessie's jealousy flared up again. "I don't see what's so special 'bout her! Why's everybody so cow-eyed over her? She don't fit in the Cove. She don't belong here! It ain't fair! It ain't fair!" Bessie angrily grabbed a hold of Neil's shirt, pulled him up out of his chair, and drew him closer to her. Neil's eyes grew large in surprise. Bessie protested, "Weren't as if I could go over Ashville-ways and pick me out a husband! She kin have anybody she wants. Cain't she leave you and John alone?" She drew him to her closer yet and in a softer, sweeter voice she cooed, "We belong together. I'm a good person. Cain't you see? Ain't I pretty enough? Ain't I passionate now?" Bessie put her arms around Neil's neck and pressed her lips to his in a desperate kiss. Neil firmly grabbed a hold of Bessie's arms and pushed her away from him. Still holding onto her arms, he looked her sternly in the face and said, "You are better than this, Bessie Coburn. You deserve better. I cannot be a good husband to you, if I'm in love with Christy Huddleston. There will be someone else who will love you and only you. You cannot settle for less!" Bessie wrenched herself free from Neil's grip. "There ain't nobody else! Don't you know anything?!! I'm going to be an old maid nobody wants!" Bessie turned and ran out of the cabin into the rain. Neil followed her out into the rain. "Bessie, come back!" Neil ran after her, but lost his balance and slipped in the mud. He landed on the ground flat on his back and gasped for breath. The wind got knocked out of him and he found it difficult to breathe. "Take it easy, MacNeill," he thought to himself as he tried filling his lungs by taking small breaths of air. ****** David had Prince traveling at a dogged pace. David wished he had brought a lantern along. After the split-second lightning flashes lit up the mountains, David's eyes took a little longer to adjust to the darkness than he liked. Persistent thoughts ran through David's head. "Where is Christy? Why didn't I start looking for her earlier? What is she thinking staying out in a storm like this?" As Prince came around a bend in the road, he reared up suddenly and nearly threw David out of the saddle as another horse and rider nearly collided into them. David concentrated as he tried to regain control of Prince. Once all of Prince's hooves were on the ground, David addressed the other rider. "Are you all right?" "Just a bit spooked, is all." The rider tipped his hat in David's direction and a stream of rainwater slid down the front of it and poured onto the ground. He extended his hand out to David and introduced himself. "Name's Bradford, Russell Bradford. I'm looking for the mission at Cutter Gap." David shook his hand. "I'm David Grantland, the minister from the mission. I'd take you there, but I'm searching for someone." Mr. Bradford looked around the darkness in puzzlement. "Can I help you search?" David looked at the man cautiously, trying to assess what kind of man he might be. He was a rather large man and definitely not from these mountains. David thought about sending him on towards the mission alone, but another pair of eyes could help find Christy. "Your assistance would be appreciated." Mr. Bradford nodded. "I only hope you and your mission can return the favor, someday." David eyed the man suspiciously. He didn't like the sound of that remark. ****** Christy started to stir. She was in that dreamy phase where she considered waking up, but decided to remain in a sleeping state for just a bit longer. She felt warmth from a fire that was crackling and she could smell its smoky aroma. She could hear the floorboard creak as someone walked about the room. She felt a blanket being draped over her. She snuggled into it, but the musty smell of the blanket awakened her as she crinkled her nose in discomfort. Christy opened her eyes and saw Bird's-Eye Taylor standing over her. Christy sat up with her eyes open wide and tightly held the blanket against her. Bird's-Eye Taylor scowled at her. He said in his gravelly voice with a disparaging tone, "I ain't yer Doc MacNeill, so don't go thinkin' I'm gonna cater to yer ev'ry want." He looked around his cabin and pointed to a pot. "Thar's some grub over yonder if'n yer hongry." Bird's-Eye walked over to a wooden chest, opened it, and rummaged through the items inside. He pulled out some wrinkled articles of clothing and held them out to Christy. "Here! Yall catch yer death of cold in them wet things. Ya ain't got no sense bein' out with no coat. Folks likely to try an' hang me agin if ya die here." Christy reached out with a trembling hand to take the clothing from Bird's-Eye. Bird's-Eye reached for his shotgun and Christy held her breath. He started for the cabin door. "Got things to do. Don't know when I'll be back." He didn't wait for Christy to respond. The door slammed behind him. Christy exhaled in relief. She shivered, both from fear and the cold. She examined the clothes in her hand. How long were they stored in that chest? They smelled musty, like the blanket and the rest of the cabin. Christy sighed in disgust. She pushed the blanket down and uttered a small cry of distress and embarrassment. Her dress was ruined, covered in mud and clinging to her drenched body. She looked down at her shoes, also covered in mud. Tears came to her eyes as she felt the mud in her hair. "Can things get any worse than this?" Christy thought in despair. Title: Like a Spider's Web Chapter Twelve Summary of Chapter Eleven: Dr. Ferrand and Miss Alice cannot locate Ruby Mae after one of the telephone poles crashes into the mission house. Upon discovering that Neil has feelings for Christy and is not interested in marrying her, Bessie becomes upset and runs from Neil's cabin into the storm. While David is looking for Christy, who had become lost in the storm, he encounters a stranger that is looking for the Cutter Gap mission. Christy finds herself in Bird's-Eye Taylor's cabin. "Ruby Mae! Ruby Mae!" Dr. Ferrand entered her bedroom. "There you are! Why didn't you answer us? Couldn't you hear us calling for you?" Ruby Mae was huddled in a corner, shaking with fear. Miss Alice picked up a folded-up blanket from the foot of Ruby Mae's bed. She shook it out and lovingly wrapped it around the frightened Ruby Mae. "Why doesn't thee tell us what happened?" Miss Alice said gently. Ruby Mae shook her head. Miss Alice helped Ruby Mae to stand up and guided her to sit down on the bed. Miss Alice sat beside her and stroked her hair. Dr. Ferrand felt awkward. He started to sit down on the other side of Ruby Mae, but realizing his coat and hat were still wet with rain, he hesitated. He bent down and set the oil lantern on the floor, removed his coat and hat, and looked around for a place to set them down. Noticing Ruby Mae's lack of furniture, he lay them on the floor. As turned around and walked back towards the bed, one of his boots slipped on the small spots of water on the floor he had trailed behind him as he had carried his wet garments about in indecision. Dr. Ferrand flailed about, but recovered his footing without having to endure an embarrassing tumble. He cleared his throat and straightened his tie. He sheepishly looked at Miss Alice and out of the corner of his eye he saw a hint of a smile move across Ruby Mae's lips. "It can't be me that you're laughing at," Dr. Ferrand said. Ruby Mae's smile disappeared as she became worried that she had upset Dr. Ferrand. She looked towards Miss Alice for help. With laughter in her voice, Miss Alice replied, "Oh, no, Jacob. We were only laughing.........at your boots. Isn't that right, Ruby Mae." Ruby Mae relaxed and a small smile returned to her face. Dr. Ferrand sat down beside Ruby Mae. He sighed and turned to her saying, "I'm glad you're all right, Ruby Mae. Miss Alice and I were worried for your safety." Ruby Mae spoke in a timid voice, "I did it to my own self. I didn't have faith.........like the preacher says to have faith when the times are dark and all. I was scared. I just knew somethin' bad was gonna happen......and it did. It came crashin' down through the wall, right near to where I was standin'. I won't ever git to talk on the telephone machine again. I broke it........and the mission." Ruby Mae looked down towards the floor in shame. "No, Ruby Mae. It's not your fault." Dr. Ferrand's voice was sad. "This....accident was meant as a message for me. The time has come for me to let go of this mission. It's time for me to see past these walls that I have built.....to wherever it is I am needed." Miss Alice looked from Dr. Ferrand to Ruby Mae. "Is that all the two of you can see? Canst thou not see anything more than just what thee considers to be thy failures?" Miss Alice asked them. "Some broken pieces of wood and a fallen-down telephone line mean nothing to me, nothing at all. It is the people that I love that matters to me now. Thy presence in my life is a precious gift and I am truly grateful." She clutched both of them in an embrace, squeezing Ruby Mae between herself and Dr. Ferrand. When Miss Alice released them and stood up, she said, "Unfortunately, time is short. We must find Christy." ****** "Jeb! Jeb! Are ya there? It's Neil." He banged on the Spencers' cabin door. The door opened and Jeb admitted Neil into the cabin. "Neil, what's wrong?" Fairlight asked. John, Zady, and the rest of the children gathered around to find out the news. Neil didn't see Bessie among them. "I'm looking for Bessie. We had an argument and she ran out into the storm. I can't find her........" "What do you mean you can't find her?" John asked in alarm. "What did you say to her? Have you hurt her?" "John...." Fairlight was surprised at the tone in her son's voice. "She could be lost. She could be hurt. You don't know her the way that I do! You're not the right man for her!" John was was getting angry. Jeb looked at his son with a puzzled look on his face. "What's this all about?" "He's trying to steal my Bessie!" John angrily pointed a finger at Neil. Neil looked at John in disbelief Zady stepped forward and with her hands on her hips, she exclaimed, "She ain't your Bessie! If you had heart feelin's for Bessie, ya should have told her so! Ya don't pay her no mind no more. Ain't nobody's fault but yer own, John Spencer! " Everyone looked at Zady in shock. It was rather rare for her to speak her mind so forcefully. For a moment, no one said anything. The only sound was the howls of the raging thunderstorm outside. Knock, knock, knock! The smaller children jumped in surprise. Someone was knocking at the cabin door. "Mr. Spencer!" Dr. Ferrand's voice was heard from outside the cabin. "Mr. Spencer, we need your help." Jeb opened the door and found Dr. Ferrand, Ruby Mae, and Miss Alice standing on his porch. Dr. Ferrand removed his hat. "I'm sorry to disturb you, but we need your help to find Christy." "Christy! What's happened to Christy?" Neil demanded. "We're not sure," Miss Alice said. "David said that she was gone. We were hoping she was with you. David's gone ahead of us to search for her." "Best not to waste time, then." Jeb put on his coat and his hat. He grabbed his shotgun. "Come on, now. Got two gals to find." ****** Christy woke up. She didn't know how long she had slept. She looked out the window. It was still dark and raining, but not as hard as before. She looked around the cabin. Bird's-Eye had not returned. She felt somewhat weak and looked towards the pot of food that Bird's-Eye had pointed out to her. She wrinkled her nose. What did Bird's-Eye put in there? Was he a good cook? How hungry was she, really? She walked over to the fire. She wasn't chilled anymore, but she wasn't exactly good and warm either. The clothes that Bird's-Eye had given her were rough and they scratched at her skin. She felt her own clothes that were lying on the floor to see if the heat from the fire had dried them. Not quite...they were still very damp. She looked around the cabin. The conditions were not as bad as the O'Teale cabin, but the place was in need of some cleaning. She wiped away some of the dusty cobwebs that were close to her. Christy wondered how much time Bird's-Eye spent in this cabin, especially with Lundy gone. Christy thought about Lundy. What would become of him? No one had seen him since he shot Bird's-Eye by accident. Christy wondered if he was homesick. Christy sighed. She was homesick. How she longed to be in her own bed, in her own nightgown......she'd even relish Ruby Mae's cooking to be home right now. Christy's thoughts were interrupted as she heard men's voices outside the cabin. She froze in fear. Did Bird's-Eye return with some of the thugs he caused trouble with? What would they do to her? She remembered the night they almost broke down the door to the mission house when they were looking for Tom McHone. Miss Ida had hit them with a dinner platter. Christy picked up a log from a wood pile that Bird's-Eye stored by the fireplace. She moved towards the cabin door and stood ready to strike the intruders with the log raised above her head. "Bird's-Eye! Bird's-Eye Taylor, are ya there?" A masculine voice with a Scottish accent rang out. "Neil! Neil, is that you?" Christy cried out. She swung the cabin door open wide and jumped into Neil's arms with relief and joy. She held him to her tightly. "I can't believe it's you! I can't believe it's you!" Jeb watched the couple and chuckled to himself. He was glad to see that Christy was all right. He mounted his horse and called out to them, "I'll go find the others and let em know Miss Christy's in good hands." Without getting a response from them, Jeb took a last look around and rode off. Still embracing Christy, Neil picked her up and carried her into the cabin with her arms still tightly wrapped around his neck. "Where's Bird's-Eye?" "I don't know," Christy answered with her face buried in his chest. Feeling Neil start to pull away from her, she gripped onto him more tightly. "Christy, you're hurting my neck." Christy loosened her grip and looked at him. Neil smiled at her and reached behind his head to pull the log out of her hand. "What exactly were you planning on doing with this?" Neil brandished the log in front of her. Christy looked at him in surprise. "Well, I....I didn't know it was you." Neil let the log drop to the floor and rubbed the soreness at the back of his neck where the log had been pressing against during Christy's eager embrace. He looked her over. "Are you hurt? Anywhere?" Christy shook her head and embraced him again. "I'm just so glad you found me. I was so lost and I thought I saw you.....in the storm. I called out your name, but you didn't stop for me. I tried to catch up to you, but when you turned around......." "What? When I turned around.....what happened, Christy?" "It....it wasn't you at all." Christy whispered, "It was Bird's-Eye." Neil rocked her in his arms and kissed her hair. "Well, I'm here now and I have no intentions of losing you." Christy caught her breath and felt it flutter about in her chest, tickling her nerves and her senses. She looked up at him with tenderness. Neil bent down and kissed her on the lips. Christy felt overwhelmed by her passionate feelings. She intensified the kiss and pulled Neil closer to her. She felt like she couldn't get enough of him, his curly hair, his broad shoulders.... He made that gnawing emptiness inside her soul disappear. She felt like the world was beginning and ending all at once. She had never felt this way before. She felt Neil's hands in her hair, on her face, and finally around her shoulders to her back holding her more tightly against him. She felt dizzy. But instead of fighting the sensation, she gave herself up to it...deeper and deeper...until Neil suddenly broke away from the kiss and pulled away from her. Christy reached for him in confusion, but then became vaguely aware that other people were in the cabin besides her and Neil. She could hear Ruby Mae chattering in her ear, but her mind wasn't registering anything that Ruby Mae said. There were people bustling all around her, asking her questions, but all she could see was Neil. ****** Bird's-Eye eyed his catch. Six varmints in all. Not bad for a rainy night. He knew he would need additional food with Christy at his cabin. Lucky for him, the rains had flooded the underground dens of many forest animals, which sent the critters running to higher ground. Easy pickin's. The rains had subsided and the morning light had just begun to color the sky. The sun would be up soon. As Bird's-Eye neared his cabin, the morning silence was broken by sounds of people nearby. Bird's-Eye's eyes squinted in suspicion and he brought up his shotgun to his shoulder. He cautiously approached the cabin. He crept up onto the porch, kicked the cabin door open, and aimed his shotgun at the trespassers. Upon seeing Miss Alice among the trespassers, he lowered his gun and looked around at what seemed like the whole cove in his little cabin. "Git out of my cabin! Don't tolerate no trespassers!" When no one moved a muscle or said a word, Bird's-Eye's face turned bright red and he waved his shotgun up in the air as he screamed, "Did ya hear what I said! Are ya'll deaf? This ain't no mission! Git out! Git out! Git out afore I lose my temper!" Chapter 13 to come later.