Title: Once Upon a Lifetime Sequel to "Every Time You Go Away" Author: Kimberly H. **************************** Chapter 1 -------------------------------------- I wonder, by my troth, what thou and I Did, till we loved? --John Donne -------------------------------------- Charlie cantered down the trail to the mission with a contentness evident in his very motion. Spring had finally arrived, and brought with it a sense of excitement that permeated the Cove. Everyone was happy--and much to Neil's joy, apparently healthy. He'd not been called out for sickness or injury for nearly two months. For this he was thankful, especially on this single, particular day. He smiled to himself and spurred Charlie onward down the forested trail. ***** Christy stood on the mission's steps, her shawl draped loosely over her shoulders. Her eyes wandered to the schoolhouse. Classes would begin again in a few weeks, once the Cove's families had gotten finished with spring planting and could spare their children. There was so much to do, so much Christy wanted to share with her students. She laughed softly at her own eagerness. "I think I'm more excited than they are!" "About what, Miss Huddleston?" Christy turned around to catch Miss Alice grinning at her. She had to smile back. "School. I was just thinking about how glad I am that spring has finally arrived." "I must agree with thee, Miss Huddleston. Winter was lovely this year--but spring is my favorite season." She motioned towards the budding trees and grassy meadows. "All of God's creatures come out, the flowers are blooming, the air is warmer and comforts like an old friend. Life is thriving everywhere. Soon there will be little ones--Neil may help you with that." Christy blinked and stared at Miss Alice. "You may show the children baby birds, Miss Huddleston. Neil is an excellent woodsman. I'm certain he knows where the two of thee may take the children to see the animals in their own homes." Christy blushed. "I'm sorry, Miss Alice..." Alice smiled, a twinkle in her eye. "Christy--thee is in love. Thee is happy. Do not let my sense of humor offset thee so easily." She hugged the young schoolteacher and went back into the mission. Christy stared after her, shaking her head. "Must be the time of year..." Her train of thought was suddenly derailed as the thunder of hoofbeats filled the air. Looking over her shoulder, she watched Neil come tearing into the mission yard. His hair was blown wildly out of place, his face rosy from the still-chilled air in the woods. The ruggedness he had lost while in Baltimore returned during the months after his return. He had reverted to his old behavior, and flannel was again a constant in his wardrobe. She looked approvingly at the red-gold curls framing his face. Much to her pleasure, he'd let them grow back, and they were as unruly as ever. Leaning over the rail, Christy held out a hand to her lover. Dismounting, Neil grasped it in his, pressing his lips to it softly. "Come walk with me, Christy--I need to take a turn around the pond with Charlie. Need to cool the poor beast down." "You wouldn't have to worry about that if you wouldn't ride him so hard, Neil. Why did you?" "No good reason--just felt the urge to run him." Charlie whinnied softly as they walked to the pond. "See? Charlie says he liked it." "Oh, really? So now you understand horse-speak. Did they teach you that in Scotland, too, Doctor?" Neil pulled her close. "They taught me a great many things, Miss Huddleston..." Seeing the glimmer of mischief in his eyes, she let the subject drop. ***** "Why did it take us so long to realize how we feel about each other, Neil?" She looked up to him from her seat on the hillside. The robust mountain man was scratching Charlie between the ears as he fed him sweetgrass. He stilled at her question, brows furrowing as he thought. Leaving Charlie to quietly graze, Neil turned to join Christy. Her petite frame seemed swallowed up in the high grass around her. With her luminous blue eyes watching his every move, she reminded him of a curious sprite. He lay back in the grass, squinting in the sun to see her. "I'm not certain, Christy. Probably had something to do with my being a stupid, stubborn Scot. Or maybe my lack of religion." He grinned broadly, showing off his perfect, white teeth. "Or maybe it was your fault." "My fault?! Where on earth did you get that idea, Neil MacNeill?" Her obvious attempt to stifle a giggle betrayed her. Noticing, Neil sat up quickly, heaving her into his lap and clenching her in a tight embrace. "Sweet Christy...how did I ever live without you?" he murmured in her ear. Then their lips met again, and the rest was silence. ************************* Chapter 2 ------------------------- Love is like a rose, The joy of all the earth. --Christina Rossetti ------------------------- As Christy disappeared up the stairs to get her coat, Neil waited in the mission parlor with Alice. Once certain that Christy was safely out of earshot, Alice whispered conspiratorially. "Did thee ask yet, Neil?" He leaned through the doorway, glancing up the stairs to make sure Christy was still in her room. "No, Alice. It didn't seem like the best time." He looked back over his shoulder at her. "Besides, why are you so keen on knowing when I've asked her?" Alice sighed. "Though one of God's helpers, Neil, I am still a woman. I love Miss Huddleston as my own. I want her to be happy." She, too, peered up the stairs. "Though I loved my daughter, Neil, she was not what is best for thee. My heart tells me that Christy is the woman God intended for thee." As Christy finally reappeared at the top of the stairs, the pair retreated to the far end of the parlor. Before she entered the room, Alice whispered a final comment--"As the Bard would say, Neil, 'Who will not change a raven for a dove?'" Christy walked in to find Neil giving Miss Alice a stern look. "What's wrong, Neil?" He didn't respond. "Miss Alice?" "It is nothing of importance, Miss Huddleston. Doctor MacNeill and I were merely having a conversation about--a new procedure--and he disagreed with my eagerness to see it take place." With that enigmatic answer, Miss Alice left for the kitchen. Puzzled, Christy turned back to Neil. "A new procedure, Neil? You didn't mention it earlier." "It's not exactly a procedure, Christy." "Then what is it?" He sighed, muttering something unintelligible under his breath as he stared at the door where Miss Alice had disappeared. "I'll tell you later." "Why not now?" Neil slipped his arms around her waist, holding her close. "Did anyone ever tell you that you ask too many questions, Miss Huddleston?" "Not since anyone ever met Ruby Mae they haven't." Neil chuckled and released her, heading outside. Right on his heels, Christy noted to herself that Neil had never answered her. ***** "Christy, are you happy here?" She glanced up from her darning to see Neil coming up the footpath from the river. He had a few trout on the stringer, evidently that evening's dinner-to-be. "Why do you ask, Neil?" He hesitated on the top step to answer her before continuing on to put away his gear. "Curiosity 's all." "Hmmm. Well--yes. I am." She looked around at the view before her. "I love this place. It's peaceful. Fresh. Not cluttered and busy like Asheville. Every time I go back it feels less and less like home." He leaned against the porch railing. "Would you consider making this place your home?" "Neil, Cutter Gap already is my home." She laughed softly, looking up to meet his eyes. The look on his face--serious, hopeful, apprehensive...her laughter died on her lips as she realized exactly what he was asking. "Neil..." ***** Instantly, he was crouched before her, pulling the half-darned socks out of her hands. "Christy--I have to ask." He dropped her work on the floor beside them, taking her hands in his own. "I love you, Christy Rudd Huddleston. You are the most gentle, sincere, and affectionate human being I've ever had the fortune to meet. You say you love this place," he motioned towards the forest around the cabin, "and you say you love me. If you think that you could tolerate being a doctor's wife, then I ask you to do just that." She made no move to answer as he brushed her hair away from her face. "Christy. I want you to be my wife. I want you to bear my children. Will you have me?" He chuckled. "Do you think you could be happy as the wife of a stubborn old man who's set in his ways?" "Neil--I don't--what..." He kissed her upturned palm. "You don't have to answer right away, Christy. I understand that you need time to think..." "Yes." He rocked back on his heels, moving to stand. "Then it's settled. When you've thought about it, when you're ready to answer--no sooner--you'll tell me." "No, Neil--I mean 'yes'." He paused, half-standing, and looked hard into her eyes. "You're serious?" "Yes, Neil--I'm serious." She matched him stare for stare. "Yes means yes." The next moment found her pulled out of the chair and into Neil's embrace. He let out a sound that reminded her of some kind of war-whoop as he crushed her to his chest. "I love you, Christy...you've made me happier than you know." Resting her head against his shoulder, she smiled. "I think I might have an idea, Doctor." He laughed outright. "Aye, that you may." ************************** Chapter 3 -------------------------------------------------- All her particular worth grows to this sum: She stains the time past, lights the time to come. --John Webster -------------------------------------------------- A few weeks later... "Children, I have a special surprise for you today..." There was a flurry of excitement through the room. It was the first day back after the spring planting, and the children were already excitable. Her announcement was not going to calm them, by any means. "Doctor MacNeil has agreed to take the entire class on a field trip! We're going on a nature walk, and while we're out, Doctor MacNeill will be teaching us about botany." Little Burl's hand immediately shot up. "Yes, Little Burl?" "Miz Christy, what's bot'nee?" "Bot-uh-ny, Little Burl." "Sorry, Miz Christy. Them words tangle m'tongue. What's bot-uh-ny?" "It's the science of plants. How they're grouped, which ones are alike, and how they're different." "Very good, Miss Huddleston! Are you sure you don't want to teach the children instead?" Neil stood in the schoolhouse doorway, hands in his pockets. Christy smiled back at him. "Good morning to you, too, Doctor. And no, I'm sure the children will be pleased to be put into your capable hands for the day. Besides, you're the scientist here, remember?" He joined her at the front of the room, his body lightly brushing hers as he turned to face the class. "Aye. And I hope you children enjoy today as much as I think I will." With a wink at Christy, he lifted his arms. "Everyone outside!" There was a flurry of chairs and small bodies as the room emptied in seconds. As Neil helped Christy into her coat, he whispered to her. "I've missed you, lass." She blushed at his words, then berated him. "Neil, it's the first day of school! You just saw me last night...how can you miss me that much already?" "I spent an entire night without you, Christy." He leaned close, whispering in her ear. "An entire night is far too long a time to go without seeing you, Miss Huddleston." "Neil!" She blushed again as he stepped away from her, well aware that the children were nearby. He flashed her a quick smile and walked out. Christy could only stand at her desk, thankful for the momentary support. Having collected herself (since walking out of the school behind the Doctor while blushing furiously was sure to be noticed), she picked up her gloves and followed him outside. ***** "It's kind of chilly for April, don't you think, Neil?" They were sitting side-by-side on a fallen tree, watching the children eat their lunches and play games. "A bit, but not too unusual for this region. The Cove always takes a little longer to warm up than most places." He bit into his sandwich and looked around. "Another week or two and it'll feel more like a real spring." Christy nodded. "Then it'll skip straight into summer. I wish mountain springs--real springs with warm weather--lasted longer. It stays cold for so long." "Once the last frost is over, it doesn't matter. Planting begins" he took another bite, "and then the families wait for the rain and warm weather." "Neil, don't talk with your mouth full." He looked over at her, one eyebrow arched. He swallowed. "Yes, ma'am. Won't happen again, 'Miz Christy'." "Neil..." He took another bite, smiling as the children continued to play. ***** As the children collected wildflowers and other plants through the day, Neil instructed them to give the "specimens" to their teacher. By the end of the afternoon, Christy had quite the spring bouquet, and realized that that had been Neil's intention all along. Inwardly, she marvelled at his deliberate act of subversion. If he couldn't bring her flowers himself, then he'd twist things around so that he made certain she got flowers somehow. ***** "Thank you for behaving so well today, children. I know Doctor MacNeill appreciates your good behavior as much as I do. And since you were so nice today, and didn't complain about staying later than usual, I'm dismissing you early tomorrow." Again the children burst through the doors at a breakneck speed, cheering as they went. "Well. Now that that's over..." Christy dropped into her seat. "How do they ever find the energy..." Neil was leaning against the door-post, pipe in hand. Christy watched him as he stood in silhouette against the darkening evening sky. Again, she marvelled--but this time at the man, not at his actions. He was so quiet sometimes, so serious. And at other times he was just...Neil. An ordinary man. She pushed herself up from the chair and walked down the aisle to stand at his side. "What are you thinking about?" She spoke softly, almost hating to disturb him. He took another draw off his pipe. Exhaling slowly, he turned his head to look at her. "Your parents." She was visibly taken aback. "Why?" "Christy, we need to tell them. They deserve to know as soon as possible." She nodded. "I know. I just dread telling them." "Why is that?" He hesitated before venturing forth with his next question. "Are you having second thoughts, Christy?" "No!" She rested a hand on his arm. "I just know that Mother will want me to come home and start planning a huge, elaborate wedding. And Daddy will not want to give me up--" "To an old hillbilly?" "No, Neil--he admires you...you know that." "But admiration is a far cry from willingness to hand over his only daughter to a mountain doctor." "Oh, Neil..." She wrapped her arms around him and nuzzled her face against his vest. "We'll get through it...I know it." He squeezed her tightly. "I admire your faith, Christy. And I'll believe you. You know your own parents better than I do." She nodded, murmuring against his chest. "Do you want to call them, write them, or send a telegram?" He thought for a moment, cradling his pipe. "I suppose we should call them. It would be fastest." He took another slow draw off his pipe. "But we'd better announce it to the Cove first, unless we want Ruby Mae to do the honors for us." She giggled against him. "That's true. And I know you won't want her to 'steal your thunder'. So, who do we tell first?" Neil kissed the top of her head. "I'd say Jeb and Fairlight." "What about Miss Alice?" "Christy, lass--she already knows about this 'new procedure'." The phrase rang a bell in her memory and she looked up at him in disbelief. "She knew the whole time?" "Aye--she knew I was going to ask." "And she was eager for you to do it?" "Aye..." he grumbled. "That woman is a regular Harpy when she sets her mind to something." Christy stepped away from him and held out her hand. "Come on, Neil. We have an announcement to make." ***** By nightfall a crowd had formed at the mission. Word of MacNeil's engagement to Christy had spread like wildfire, and it seemed everyone in the Cove wanted to be present when the couple notified Christy's parents. Fairlight stayed close by Christy's side, ready to offer any support. "Fairlight--I can't do this..." "Of course ya kin, Miz Christy...thar ain't nuthin' ta be afeared of...just remember that the Doc loves ya, and he'll be right beside ya...and so will I." With that, Fairlight pulled her into an embrace. "'Sides, me 'n Jeb are happier than pigs in slop to heer 'bout this. We been waitin' a long time." "Thank you, Fairlight. I'm glad someone here has that much faith..." "Miz Christy...look around ya. What do ya see?" Christy did as she was bidden, and her eyes circled the room. There was Jeb with the Spencer children, talking to Neil...Opal McHone stood in the back with her little girl--the foundling child...the Allen's were just inside the door--Rob smiled at her across the room...the O'Teale's were just then arriving in the mission yard...she could hear Little Burl asking "Whar's Teacher?"...Aunt Hattie sat in a chair in the corner of the room, safely out of the way of the rambunctious children...and Dan Scott waited not ten feet from her, talking with Miss Alice. "Everyone's here..." "Aye. They're here cause they keer 'bout you 'n the Doc." Christy felt her eyes filling with tears, and did her best to hold them back. At that instant she met Neil's gaze, a questioning look on his face. She smiled at him reassuringly, wanting him to know she was all right. He winked back at her, then returned to his conversation with Jeb. ***** A few minutes later, Neil was shouting over the noise in order to be heard. "I'd like to thank everyone for coming out here tonight--" The noise died down, and Neil resumed in a normal tone. "I know that I speak for Christy as well when I say that it means a lot to have you all present for this." There were nods and whispers of approval everywhere in the room. "Now I ask that you please remain as quiet as possible so that Christy and I can hear clearly while we speak with her family." Joining Christy at the telephone, he patched the call through from El Pano to Asheville, then to her parents house. As it began to ring, he handed her the earpiece. "Go ahead, Christy--and don't worry. Fairlight and I are right here..." Christy put the receiver to her ear, listening to the rings. Finally, she heard the faint voice of her father. "Daddy?" There was a ripple of noise through the mission--a look from Neil silenced the onlookers. "No Daddy--everything's fine." She was practically shouting. "Daddy, would you go get mother? There's something I have to tell you..." *************************** Chapter 4 --------------------------------------------- The course of true love never did run smooth. --William Shakespeare --------------------------------------------- "William--you must listen!...No...William--" Neil was trying to make clear his intentions to Mr. Huddleston, but the combination of distance, lack of warning, and a bad connection made it near impossible. Christy could see Neil's exasperation. If only her father would listen... "Yes!...Yes, William--that would be acceptable...yes--we'll not do anything til you're both here...Thank you, William...yes, she's here." Neil handed the receiver back to Christy, thankful for escape. "Daddy?...I love you, too...Give Mother my love...yes--we'll see you soon...Goodbye, Daddy." Christy placed the receiver back on its hook, turning to Fairlight and Alice. "They're coming on the next train." Jeb spoke up from the doorway. "What'd they tell ya?" Neil responded first. "William wants to discuss it with me. He said he'd have preferred I'd gone to him first, but what's done is done. He just wants to work out the details now." Jeb nodded. "So's that mean you 'n Miz Christy are gittin' hitched?" Neil glanced over at Christy, then looked back around to grin at Jeb. "Aye, I 'spose it does." Everyone in the mission cheered, Jeb wading through the crowd to shake Neil's hand. "Lemme be the first ta congradulate ya, Doc." He nodded in Christy's direction. "She's a mite purty one--no offense ma'am." Christy blushed, squeezing Fairlight's hand. "None taken, Mr. Spencer." Alice spoke up, shouting to get everyone's attention. "Ladies and gentlemen, I know that Doctor MacNeill and Miss Huddleston appreciate your well-wishes, but it is getting late, and I suggest that thee all go home." She paused, looking around at the faces surrounding her. "I also ask everyone to join us Saturday afternoon for a celebration in honor of Neil and Christy's engagement." Again, the room surged with excitement, and the air was filled with the chattering voices of the women and children as they filed out of the mission behind the menfolk. Fairlight gave Christy a quick hug before lifting the Least'un up to give the schoolteacher a kiss. Balancing the child on her hip, Fairlight shook Neil's hand and left the mission, pulling the door closed behind her. Neil looked over at Christy. "Well. It's official, Miss Huddleston. We're going to be married." ***** "So, William, how was the train?" Mr. Huddleston glanced away from the drawings Christy was sharing with him. "As well as can be expected, Doctor MacNeill. Though I will never grow accustomed to spending quite that much time sitting down." He stretched out his legs. "I don't like being cooped up for so long. You can't imagine how happy I was to reach El Pano." Julia Huddleston looked up from one of Rob Allen's stories, resting a hand on her husband's knee as she spoke to MacNeill. "Ever since his stroke, he gets stiffness in his leg if he doesn't move around a lot." "That's perfectly normal, Mrs. Huddleston." "Call me Julia, Doctor. And yes, I recall you mentioning that possibility the last time we discussed William's condition. You suggested that he maintain a regimen of exercise to prevent any further discomfort." "Which I have adhered to, MacNeill--I promise you that!" William patted his wife's hand. "My lovely wife keeps me on my toes. Uses my prescription as an excuse to make me do things." "William!" "Julia--you know I'm only teasing, darling." The group fell silent again. Taking advantage of the moment, Neil cleared his throat. "William, perhaps this would be a good time to have that discussion." Julia and Christy looked to William for a response. When he nodded, Julia rose from the sofa, taking Christy's hand and leading her out of the room. ***** "So, MacNeill--you've proposed marriage to my Little Miss." "Yes, William. That I have--and she's accepted me." William rose from the sofa. "Have to move around a little..." He crossed the floor, and as he turned to complete the circle, he spoke. "Do you love her?" "Aye, William." "Where do you plan to reside after your marriage?" "In my cabin." "Does this arrangement meet with Christy's approval?" "Yes--it was she who suggested it." "Very well." William said nothing more. After a few minutes of silence, Neil could take no more. Rising from his seat, he broached the unspoken topic. "William. Honestly--do you approve? Christy's wishes aside--do you approve of my wanting to marry her?" "Why wouldn't I, Doctor?" "Because of my age, man! I'm nearly old enough to be her father myself. You can't tell me that doesn't bother you." William smiled, looking at the floor. "Doctor, Christy's mother and I are not the same age. In fact, there's about a dozen years between us." He met Neil's eyes. "So you see, your age is irrelevant to me. My only question is--do you think you're good enough for my Little Miss?" "No, William. I don't think there's a man alive good enough for Christy." He fell silent, thinking a moment before continuing softly, 'Ah, but a man's reach should exceed his grasp--'" "'--or what's a heaven for?' I read Browning, too, Doctor." "Then you'll understand when I say that Christy is my heaven." William crossed the room to where Neil stood. "Doctor--" He extended his hand. "I'd be proud to have you as my son-in-law. Take good care of my girl." Neil clasped William's proffered hand, and the bond was forged. ***** Upstairs, Julia was brushing her daughter's hair as the two conversed. "Do you love Doctor MacNeill, Christy?" She smiled at Julia's reflection in the mirror. "Yes, Mother. I love him very much." "Are you certain you'll be happy with him?" "As certain as I can be sitting here at this moment." Julia put the brush away and began plaiting Christy's hair. Neither spoke for a few minutes, then Julia said softly, "Christy--are you prepared for the--expectations--Neil may have of you as a wife? Besides cooking for him and keeping a tidy home...?" Christy's eyes dropped to the vanity table as a blush crept up into her cheeks. Regaining her composure, she met Julia's gaze again in the mirror. "I'm not afraid, Mother. I know what's expected of me, and I'm ready." "My sweet girl..." Julia hugged her daughter tightly. "If you say you're ready, then I'll agree to this." "What do you mean, Mother?" Julia pulled away and sat beside Christy on the vanity stool. "I came here with every intention of trying to change your mind, Christy, but your father would hear nothing of it. You see, I believed that you were simply misled--that, after you refused the minister, you felt guilty--and after Doctor MacNeill's wife passed away, you fooled yourself into thinking that you cared for him in a way more than friendship." She reached into a drawer for a ribbon to put in Christy's hair. "Your father insisted that I hold my tongue--that I wait to hear what you had to say. Now that I have, I admit that I believe you're making the right choice after all." With the bow in place, she stood, pulling Christy up to stand beside her. "My girl is a grown woman. You know what's best for you now--what you want. I'll not stand in the way of your happiness." Christy squeezed her mother's hand tightly, trying to convey how much she loved her--and how much hearing those words meant. A line from a Shakespearean play she'd been reading to the children popped into her head. *I guess even Shakespeare can make mistakes.* Christy smiled at her own reflection, imagining herself a married woman... **************************** Chapter 5 -------------------------------------------- How do I love thee? Let me count the ways... --Elizabeth Barrett Browning -------------------------------------------- Spring gave way to summer, and life at the mission went on without a hitch. The residents of the Cove looked forward to a good harvest in the fall. Not only that, but a wedding was scheduled for late October... Christy had taken time off from school to visit her parents in Asheville--David had volunteered to teach the children during her absence. Once home, the whirlwind of plans had kicked up and was blowing wildly out of control. Christy wanted nothing more than to flee--to get back to the safety and comfort of Neil's embrace, to put aside the planning and just go be a wife... "Mother--please! I don't need all this..." "Nonsense, Christy--every girl deserves to have the wedding of her dreams." She draped a length of white satin around Christy's waist. "Not to mention the perfect gown..." Christy sighed. "Mother--we've been through this ten times already! I just want a simple dress--nothing fancy and overdone...a plain white lawn would be fine..." Julia Huddleston straightened sharply. "Christy, you're getting married in October--lawn is for summer!" "Oh--Mother, I know...I'm just so tired of trying on dresses and looking at patterns and fabrics--I just want to get married. Why's that so difficult?" She sank into a nearby chair, rubbing her eyes. "Please, Mother--simple. That's all I ask..." Julia knelt by the chair, drawing Christy close. "We'll do this however you'd prefer. It's your day, and I shouldn't be telling you how to do it." She leaned back, looking her daughter in the eye. "Now, let's just pick a nice fabric, and a simple--but elegant--pattern, and we'll be on our way. Agreed?" Christy nodded. "Good. Now get up--" she pulled Christy to her feet, "and pick out something you like." Less than an hour later, the two ladies left the shop with a receipt for their purchase and order, as well as a swatch of fabric and a drawing of what the finished gown would look like--an elegant Edwardian style made of a heavy, smooth satin, with fine lacework and pearl buttons. The dress was slightly old-fashioned, but it's understated regalness appealed to Christy's feminine vanity. It was her only concession. ***** Neil MacNeill was fit to be tied. His plans to call Christy in Asheville were ruined--falling off the roof tended to have that effect. Fortunately, two things were in his favor--Dan Scott had been helping him repair the leaks that day, so he was nearby when the accident occurred, and it had recently stopped raining, so the ground was still very soft. All in all, he came out virtually unscathed, except for a few bruises and his wounded pride. Dan's laughter had not helped matters. Neil's brain had room for only one thought: "I wish Christy would come home!" ***** With the last of the plans finalized (and Miss Alice's letter about Neil's accident safely tucked away), Christy boarded the train for El Pano. Her parents would join her at the beginning of the month, leaving them a few precious weeks to prepare Cutter Gap for the wedding. Waving final goodbyes to her family, she looked down at the ring that Neil had finally managed to get for her. It was a small stone, but pure and flawless. The little diamond sparkled with a white-hot glint in the afternoon sun. She found it difficult to believe that in just over one month's time, there would be next to it a band of gold. Her breath caught in her throat at the mere thought. She tore her eyes away and focused on the scenery outside her window for the remainder of the trip. As the train pulled into the station at El Pano, she thought how it would be the last time she disembarked as Christy Huddleston. The next time she visited Asheville, her baggage ticket would read "Dr. and Mrs. MacNeill." "Christy!" Her thoughts were scattered when she heard David's voice. Her eyes lighting upon him, she smiled broadly. "David! I didn't expect to see you here..." "I know, Christy--I just wanted the chance to extend the hand of friendship. Nothing more." His eyes held something new, she noted. A kind of assurance in his actions, and her heart leaped with the certainty that her friend had indeed not abandoned her. ***** "...mother and father, and a few cousins...the people of the Cove, of course...the cake will be done here...wildflowers and creeping cedar to decorate the church...Aunt Hattie will sing the hymn...the children want to help, but I don't know what to tell them..." Neil smirked as she read out her neat, prim little list. "Why don't you let them seat the guests? or serve? or maybe provide some entertainment at the reception?" "Neil, that's a wonderful idea! The children can sing songs--they love to, and I'm sure they wouldn't pass up the opportunity to show off their talents..." "Oh, so that's what you call their cater-wauling..." "It's not cater-wauling, Neil..." He held her close. "I know, Christy--I just like to get you riled up..." "Neil, that's not very nice--" "Aye--and neither am I!" With that, he hoisted her up and into his arms, carrying her out the mission doors and outside to where Charlie was tethered. Placing her in the saddle, he loosed the horse and mounted up, again holding her against his chest so she wouldn't lose her balance. "Where are we going, Neil?" "Anywhere but here, lass..." ***** "Neil, thank you for getting me away from all that for a little while." "You're welcome, Christy...I thought you might need it." She curled up next to him on the mountaintop, the valleys and ridges spread out before them like a plush carpet. Nestling deeper into his warmth, she drifted off to sleep, her mind filled with visions of white dresses, kilts, and bright-eyed, happy babies.... *************************************** Chapter 6 ----------------------------------------- So quick bright things come to confusion. -William Shakespeare ----------------------------------------- One week before the wedding, Christy truly believed that she was rapidly losing her mind. If chaos sprang up from the earth, then its wellspring was Cutter Gap, Tennessee. Neil had gone into hiding--obviously his love for his young bride did NOT transcend wedding preparations. Anytime someone spotted him, he was either going fishing or coming back from fishing. Then there were her parents and friends... Julia Huddleston, Fairlight Spencer, and Miss Alice had gone rounds with one another so often that the trio had been separated. Christy had to beg them each in turn to be polite and open to suggestions, but to no avail. Not two hours later, the three women had gotten into an argument at the schoolhouse over the decorations. Never in her life, would Christy have imagined the three women she admired most getting into a tiff over how to drape garland. Walking away from the bird-like squawking that poured out of the schoolhouse, she could only hope that things would get better... ***** "Miz Christy--" "Yes, Creed?" "Kin I brang Scally-wag to youns' recepshun?" Christy stiffened, pen poised over a thank-you note for one of the gifts from an Asheville friend. "Creed...I really don't think a wedding reception is a good place for a raccoon." She fumbled, trying not to hurt the little boy's feelings. "Creed--it's just that--well, there'll be a lot of people there, and raccoons don't take well to crowds--" Creed nodded thoughtfully. "I reckon yer right, Miz Christy. I shore don't want Scally-wag gittin tore up at yer weddin' n' all...he might git hurt!" *Not to mention my dress, my cake...* Christy stifled the urge to run. Only two more days. She had canceled Friday's classes--the church/schoolhouse needed a thorough cleaning for Saturday, and then decorations would have to be put up. She sighed. There was still so much to do. ***** The next morning, Christy woke before dawn. In the fading gloom, she lay listening in her bed, trying to determine what had roused her from slumber. She heard nothing. Closing her eyes to drift off again, a thought suddenly occurred to her: the wedding was a day away. She scrambled out of bed, dashing for the wash basin. After collecting herself and regaining some composure, Christy dressed and went quietly down to breakfast. Miss Alice glanced once in her direction, took note of her disheveled appearance, and knew immediately what had happened. "Miss Huddleston--Christy, perhaps thee would like to spend the day alone?" "What makes you ask that, Miss Alice?" "Thou are looking a little pale this morning, Christy. Thee should rest. Leave the cleaning to Mrs. Spencer and myself. Then thy mother may join us in decorating." Alice smiled. "We've reached a compromise..." The thought of time away from all the hustle and bustle appealed to Christy more than she liked to admit. As much as she was anticipating her marriage, the wedding seemed to be more a hindrance than anything else. Time alone would do her good--besides, she and God needed to have a talk. "Thank you, Miss Alice. I think you're right--I need to get away for a little while. Maybe then I can clear my head and pray." Alice nodded. "Then go, Christy. I'll tell Fairlight and thy mother that thee needed an opportunity with God." "Thank you, Miss Alice." She hugged the missionary and rushed out the door. ***** "God--I need your guidance now more than ever. You brought me to this Cove for a reason…I believed it was for the children, but now I see that it was as much for me...I would never have felt love like this had I stayed in Asheville. I would've missed out on so much!...I would never have known Miss Alice...David...Fairlight and Jeb...I would never have been able to help Mountie speak...never known the joy of teaching in these mountains--and I would not be getting married tomorrow." She paused, turning her face heavenward. "I need Your help--I want to be a good wife to Neil...I want to make him happy, to be a helpmate to him as You intended...but I'm frightened...I'm scared I won't be good enough...that I'll make too many mistakes...Father--please show me what I need to do this according to Thy Will...I can't do it without You…" Christy remained in quiet supplication for many hours. As the afternoon sun spread its golden fingers over the rocky outcropping where she prayed, a peace reached into her soul--quelling her fears, silencing her doubts. A confident bride came down the mountain that day, much changed from the nervous young woman that climbed that stony slope in the morning... ***** Sunlight streamed in Christy's window the morning of her wedding. She had been up for nearly an hour, standing in the doorway to her balcony, watching the dawn's light creep over the mountains. This would be the last time she looked out that window, the last time she would stand in the room that had become her home. By nightfall, she would be Mrs. MacNeill, a doctor's wife. She would welcome every morning from a bed in a mountain cabin, would call that place home. She went down to breakfast with a hearty appetite. ***** "Ruby Mae, would you please go get Fairlight and my mother?" "Why, shorely, Miz Christy!" She dropped the hairpins she'd been holding onto the vanity, some of them scattering to the floor. Christy groaned in exasperation at Ruby Mae's excitability. Shortly thereafter, her mother rushed into the room, Fairlight and even Miss Alice on her heels. "Yes, Christy? Ruby Mae said you sent for us...has something happened? Are you feeling well?" "Nothing's happened, Mother--and I feel wonderful. It's just that I'm having trouble with my hair…" Julia turned to Fairlight. "Mrs. Spencer, would you be so kind as to pass me some of those hairpins?...Thank you." She smiled at her daughter. "Now let's see what we can do to get you ready..." ***** "Mother, I can't breathe!" Christy gasped for air. "Nonsense! This corset is NOT too tight, I assure you..." *yank* "...you're going to look wonderful in your dress..." *tug* "...just let me tie it...there! Perfect!" Concern darkened Fairlight's eyes. "Are ye shore Miz Christy's alright? She's lookin' a mite peaked to me, if'n ya don't mind my sayin' so..." Julia turned her attention back to Christy. Her breathing was shallow and her face pale. "I think you might be right, Mrs. Spencer…Christy--let me loosen those stays a little..." ***** Finally in her gown, Christy looked up to see her mother crying--as well as Miss Alice and Fairlight. Ruby Mae was sobbing uncontrollably in the hall. A burgeoning relationship with Rob Allen was making the wedding all the more emotional for her. "Mother--how do I look?" "Christy--you are divine..." "Thy mother speaks truth, Miss Huddleston…thou art the sign and symbol of loveliness." "I ain't never seen nuthin' more beautiful, Miz Christy..." "Nor have I, Mrs. Spencer." The masculine voice coming from the doorway carried a bittersweet note in its words. But the smiling mouth that spoke them refused to betray any sadness. "Daddy..." William Huddleston looked to the women surrounding his daughter. "Ladies--" He met Julia's gaze. "Julia--I'd like to have a few moments with my girl, if I may?" Alice ushered everyone out of the room, squeezing Christy's hand as she passed by. Now alone, William looked Christy over from head to toe, holding her out before him at arm's length. "Oh, my Little Miss...how we used to play pretend together, and you always wanted to act out your wedding day...now that it's here, I can't bear it--I can't bear to see my Little Miss go down that aisle and leave me for good..." Christy began to cry. "Daddy--" "Hush, now..." He pulled her into an embrace. "...don't you cry, Little Miss...this is your wedding day, and I want you to be happy...are you?" "Yes, Daddy…the happiest I've ever been...this is where I'm supposed to be." He held her tightly. "Then I won't worry...you'll always be my girl...even if you have ten girls of your own." He held her out at arm's length again. "I think there's someone waiting at the church for you, Little Miss. I don't think we should keep him waiting." She shook her head. "No--he's waited long enough." William offered her his arm, and together they went down the mission-house steps and out into the October sunshine. As they crossed the yard to the church, Christy laced her fingers through her father's, giving them a final squeeze as they climbed the steps to her waiting life... ******************************* Chapter 7 ------------------------------------------ Forever wilt thou love, and she be fair... --Keats ------------------------------------------ At Christy's appearance with her father in the back of the church, the guests rose to their feet. She motioned for Ruby Mae to go down the aisle, followed by Mountie, scattering flower petals as she went. The Least'un had to be pushed out into the aisle because of his sudden gripping fear to walk down it with the ring pillow. He clung to his mother's skirts, but finally relented and made a dash for the front of the church. The march began, and Christy gave her father one more glance before they stepped out. As she walked slowly to the altar, Christy met Neil's gaze. She'd not seen him in almost a week, and was amazed at his appearance. His hair, though still long, had been neatly trimmed. He was dressed in a new suit--black, with a crisp white shirt and dark tie. His eyes revealed that he was as nervous as she. Reaching the pulpit, David looked at the three and asked, "Who gives this woman to be wed to this man?" Christy felt her father's grip tighten once, then loosened his hold. "Her mother and I do." Then he kissed her softly on the cheek and took a seat beside her mother. Christy turned to Neil, twining her fingers in his as they faced David. "Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to join this woman and this man in holy matrimony..." Christy felt faint--hearing the words spoken struck home--the reality of what was happening hit her full force. "...if there be anyone here that has just cause for why these two should not be wed--" David paused, a tiny smile curling the corners of his mouth as he continued, "--let him speak now or forever hold his peace." There was not even the rustle of the children to reply. Christy was almost certain she heard Neil exhale in relief. The recitation of vows and exchanging of rings went by all too quickly. Next thing she knew, Christy heard David saying, "I now pronounce you man and wife. You may kiss the bride." Neil lifted the veil from over her face, and as he kissed her, she heard applause and the cheers of the children. Releasing her, Neil turned to shake David's hand, then accept the first congratulations from Jeb. Fairlight was instantly at her side, tears in her eyes. Amidst the hugs and laughing, Christy felt Neil take her hand and pull her to the door. They rushed down the aisle and out into the mission-yard, everyone right behind them. The children raced to the mission-house steps, lining up like a chorus, waiting for Fairlight to lead them in their songs. They started first with "Grateful Praise", then moved into some of the highlanders' favorite tunes. Jeb and some of the other menfolk provided music. ***** "Hey, Doc--when you n' the missus gonna cut this heer cake?" Christy looked up to see some of the men standing around the cake. *They're as bad as the children when it comes to sweets...* She tapped Neil's shoulder. "We'd better get to it, Neil--before they do it for us." His eyes sparkled, slipping one arm around her waist and kissing her as he escorted her to the table. The cake was three tiers high, with bright white icing and little roses all over. They cut it, shared a piece, then handed over the serving knife to Miss Alice as Julia Huddleston ushered them over to the gift table, which was laden with a variety of presents--some practical, others distinctly decorative. Of all the gifts, a handful stood out most in the couple's minds: Fairlight gave them a counterpane of moss green and blue fabric, forming a river; Ruby Mae (under the guidance of Miss Alice) had made a sampler, with Neil and Christy's names stitched into the pattern; Christy's parents gave a set of china and silverware, as well as some good linens; and Miss Alice presented them with a large family Bible--their names were already put down at the base of the family tree in the front. David had helped the children make an album for the couple--cloth-covered wood formed the cover, and it was filled with heavy paper the minister had gotten from Asheville. It was bound with leather, tacked on with small silver studs. The first page had in neat, carefully printed handwriting, "The Marriage of Doctor MacNeill and Christy Huddleston", followed by a poem written by Rob Allen. Each page after that had a small illustration on it, one by each child, with their name written below it. Christy only cried. How much she loved this place...these people. ***** "Throw it, Miz Christy!" Ruby Mae was screeching loudly from the yard. Christy could only shake her head and laugh to herself. Turning around on the steps, she tossed the bouquet of crimson roses and goldenrod over her head. She spun around to see the ensuing scuffle. Every girl in the Cove lay in a heap, clamoring to get the fragile bunch of flowers from whoever it was trapped on the bottom. One by one, they stood, and finally Ruby Mae staggered to her feet, grinning broadly as she held the near-crushed bouquet aloft. "I got 'hit, Miz Christy, I got 'hit! That means I get hitched next..." She glanced over her shoulder at Rob, who only blushed and took cover behind some of the other men. ***** "Christy--" Neil was whispering into her ear. "Yes, Neil?" "They're getting ready to shivaree us..." She glanced furtively about the room. Sure enough, the men and women were breaking off into two groups, and the women were headed her way. "Neil--what--they can't! I don't want to...not here!" "Hush, lass. I won't let them..." He smiled down at her, pulling her closer. "...I know you, Christy--and I know how you think. You'd rather not make--a spectacle of yourself--here...not with so many people around to hear it." Opal reached them first. "Doc, yore knowin' what we've come fer, so just let us have at her." "Now, Opal--you're knowing I can't let you." "Doc--it be tradishun." "Sorry, Opal--she's my wife, and I must say she'll not be going with you today." He looked over at the men approaching. "Nor will I be going with you!" He swept Christy up, held her to his chest, and pushed his way through the pressing crowd. Christy clutched at his collar, and he felt her silent laughter coursing through her body. He carried her to the stable, only to find David waiting with Charlie--saddled and ready to go. David shrugged. "She still means a lot to me, Doctor. As her friend, I couldn't let them." Grinning, he glanced over Neil's shoulder. "They're coming, MacNeill. You'd better get going." Neil put her on Charlie's back and shook David's hand, thanking him. Leading Charlie past the porch and waiting people, he stopped long enough to let Christy say goodbye to her parents. Swinging up on Charlie's back, they rode away. ********************** Epilogue --------------------------------------- But that I love thee best, O most best, believe it. --William Shakespeare --------------------------------------- That night, Christy faced a new world. She not once doubted Neil, nor feared him--and her unflagging trust served her well. He was gentler with her than she'd ever known possible. Lying very still in the moonlight, Christy looked on the face of her sleeping husband. This man--he who had caused her such frustration, anger, and guilt. This man--the root of all that she held dear in her life. This man--a living example of love. In the dark, she came to fully realize what it meant. Love is not a emotion...not a tingling...not a silly, sentimental topic of women's romance novels--Love is an action, a thought, an indescribable thing that transforms, recreates, and gives life to all that it touches. Christy leaned over--ever so slowly--and pressed her lips to Neil's. Drawing away, she saw his eyes flutter open, a smile spreading over his features as he reached out for her, pulling her to him. Again, she succumbed to the charms of married life, and dawn found them wrapped close together in a lover's embrace. *************************************** These are the lyrics to the song "Once Upon A Lifetime"...though not all the words apply, I thought the message rang true for the relationship between Neil and Christy...that's why I picked it as my title! *VBG* Anyway, for those that are remotely curious, here goes... "Once upon A Lifetime" (sung by ALABAMA) Once upon a lifetime, I looked in someone's eyes, and felt the fire burning in my heart for the very first time. She was scared and young, and had never tasted love-- so I took her by the hand, and a boy became a man, once upon a lifetime. And once upon a lifetime, you hold the Queen of Hearts, but if you gamble on a diamond when the dealing starts, you stand to lose it all as the cards begin to fall, and the lesson learned is hard--you're only dealt the Queen of Hearts once upon a lifetime. So if you're taking chances know the chance you take-- a broken heart's a high price to pay. Foolish ways will make fools of the wise, and the best things seldom come along twice. Once upon a lifetime, you know that you've been blessed when you hold your firstborn tenderly against your chest. And through the innocence you see the value of the family-- and you feel a special bond, that only comes along once upon a lifetime. So if you're taking chances know the chance you take-- a broken heart's a high price to pay. Foolish ways will make fools of the wise, and the best things seldom come along twice. And people only find a love like yours and mine once upon a lifetime.