Title: The Edge of Dawn Author: Carrie P. Disclamer: The wonderful story of Christy Huddleston and other characters belongs to Catherine Marshall and the LeSourd family. This story is most definately not for profit, just for fun! This takes place The story actually takes place during the series. The Edge of Dawn Chapter 1 I sighed looking out on the dark gray of the morning. The view from the schoolhouse was spectacular as always but today I found it less inspiring. Normally the endless field in front of me would be aglow with morning sunlight, not shadowed as it was now beneath a fine mist. Far in the distance mountains and valleys would be seen, their rising peaks and hollows a continuous sea of green. Today though, their colors were muted and dulled by a dense fog, making them blur into the unending gray of the sky above. The combined effect of fog, mist and clouds created a sense of loneliness, as though the world were closing in and I was the only living creature for miles. No wonder I feel so depressed, I thought to myself. Shaking my head to clear the fog from my mind I pulled myself from the view and entered the warmth of the classroom. Here a fire was burning in the small stove near my desk and several well placed lamps held the darkness outside at bay. David must have been here, I said to myself smiling in the silence. This simple evidence of another person seemed to brighten the day and make it seem less lonely. Thank goodness for David, I thought. The weather lately, was getting harder everyday to overcome. This was the fourth day in a row that had begun like this one and I felt that it was more difficult every morning to remember the sun. Trying to hold onto the comfort of the schoolroom I began to walk slowly to the front of the room, a stack of very wet papers in my hand. The weather had not been the only thing to conspire against me this morning. I had been awake for only a few hours and already I had suffered several embarrassing incidents. All of them I had to admit to were my own fault but that didn’t make my embarrassment any less. Especially when I considered the reason behind them. Last night I had had the strangest dream . It left me unable to concentrate on even the simplest tasks this morning. Every time I began something the dream would creep into my mind and I would forget what I was doing. Even now I could feel myself drawn into the memory, the details enveloping me like the fog outside. The dream had begun very simply. I had been walking through a field enjoying the feel of the warm sun on my face, it was a welcome respite, even in my dreams, from the darkness of the last few days. It seemed to be summer, wildflowers were in bloom all around me. Their petals, in every color imaginable, were open to the sun . At the edge of the field tall trees, bright with brilliant green leaves, were reaching for the sky. As I walked I had suddenly become aware that someone was holding my hand. Their grasp was warm and comforting in my own and strengthened the peace of the day. It must be David, I had thought smiling, who else would I dream of. No matter how hard I tried though, I couldn’t see my companions face. Time passed and I became increasingly frustrated at my inability to determine who I was with. It has to be David, I thought again. Still the face eluded me though. Suddenly my attention had been drawn to a figure in the distance. As I walked closer I had realized with a start that it was David standing on the edge of the field watching me. I was suprised to see how sad he looked. This was the reason the dream had haunted me so, if I had not been holding David’s hand then who had I been walking with, and why did the expression on David’s face hold such sadness? Even more compelled to see my companion, I had forced my dreamself to turn. But just as the face began to focus I was woken with a start. A storm had been raging outside, torrential rains beating at my window and thunder crashing. It had been this torrent of sound that had woken me. Unable to go back to sleep I had risen early and spent the rest of the morning trying not to think about the dream. A lot of good that did, I thought to myself as the schoolroom came back into focus around me. My attempts at forgetting the dream had been so unsuccessful that I had made a complete mess of the morning. Already I had burned breakfast, twisted my ankle and scattered graded exams over the wet shcoolyard. I should have know better that to get out of bed after that dream, I though, even if I couldn’t sleep at least I would be warm and uninjured.” Trying once again to focus myself I continued my way to my desk. My ankle still hurt but it was getting better. Once I reached the desk I did not sit down. Leaving my bag and planner on my chair I turned to face the classroom again. I would have to do something about the exams I had dropped. These were my students midterm examinations and I had been promising them for days that I would have them corrected. I might not survive the rebellion if I don’t give them back today, I laughed to myself. Limping slightly I began to place the papers on the desks nearest the stove. Some of them were stuck together and would need more careful work to pull them apart without damage. I put them aside thinking I might have time to work on them during lunch. Placing the last of the papers on the floor in front of the stove I turned to see the first of the children running up the hill towards the schoolhouse. They look almost too happy, I thought watching their endless energy. Quickly I reprimanded myself . The children of Cutter Gap had far to much to be sad about and I could not begrudge them whatever happiness they could find, no matter how badly my day was going. Truth be told though even with all their sorrows the children's ability to find joy often amazed me. Taking a deep breath I took a moment to ask God for strength and by the time the children reached the door I was prepared to meet them with a smile. Creed Allen was the first to appear which pleased me immensely. There was no one in all of Cutter Gap who could make me smile as fast as Creed. This morning he had a particularly mischievous look on his face though, not at all a good sign. It took me a moment to figure out why. As Creed came racing down the isle I noticed something was struggling in his arms. On closer inspection it revealed itself to be a very large, very frightened turtle. God give me strength, I though to myself. “Teacher, teacher,” Creed said pushing the turtle in front of my face, “ Look what I found in the pond! It be a genuine turtle.” “ I can see that, “ I said smiling and taking a step back from my eye to eye position with the turtle. Looking at it from a more comfortable distance I had to admit it really was beautiful. It’s large very frightened eyes looked out at me from the smooth black shell into which it had retreated. The shell was not completely black I noticed looking more closely, much of it was dotted with bright yellow spots. If I had been in a less practical mood I might have said they looked like stars in the night sky, but I was not very poetic today. Beautiful or not though, the turtle could not stay. I knew my class, and I knew that they would pay no attention when there was something more exciting to watch. Unfortunately I also knew it would be very hard to get Creed to give up his new friend. “ Can we keep it for our own, I rekon I can shelter it, just like Scalawag, “ Creed was saying in his most pleading voice. How will I get out of this one, I thought. If one was not careful Creed could be impossible to reason with. Quickly I tried to remember all the past ways I had convinced Creed to give something up. Before I could come up with anything however, my thoughts were interrupted. “ How is Scalawag going to feel about having to share your attention,” asked a familiar voice from the back of the room. Leaning against the doorframe, silouetted against the dark sky outside, was the tall figure of Dr. Neil McNeil. His hair and jacket were soaked from riding through the wet forest but this did not seem to bother him. In fact he seemed quite amused at my predicament and I was more than a little worried at the mischievous glint in his eye. “Coons are very jealous creates, they don’t like sharing, “he continued. “Ah Doc I’m supposen your right, “ Creed said looking very disappointed. I had a feeling I wasn’t safe yet though. Turning to me again with his head tilted to the side, and his most innocent expression he asked in a pleading voice. “But can’t I just have him for one day? I’ll listen to your teaching I promise.” I knew that had been too easy. I opened my mouth to tell Creed that maybe it would be better to make a clean break before he got too attached, but once again Doctor McNeil spoke first. “You know Creed, your friend might actually be a very good science lesson,” he said the mischievous look still in his eyes. The smile on his face grew larger as Creed turned his hopeful eyes toward me. In an attempt to appear disinterested the Doctor took out his pipe and began filling it with tobacco. Oh, he could be so infuriating! I was well aware that he knew I wanted that turtle out of my classroom. Why was he always teasing me! After the morning I had had I could not let him win that easily. Thinking fast I came upon a memory of something that put a mischievous look in my eyes to match the Doctors. “What a fine idea, “ I said smiling, the Doctor I noticed paused abruptly in lighting his pipe, “And seeing as I need to finish cleaning up your exams I am quite sure Dr. McNeil would not mind spending an hour teaching you all about turtles.” Now the good Doctor was definitely paying attention. Not knowing how long my advantage would last I quickly gathered up the exams that needed to be separated. On my way out the door I paused for only a moment to enjoy the look on Neil's face. The amusement I had seen earlier had been replaced with panic. The last thing I noticed as I walked down the steps was the turtle snapping at Creed’s fingers. Suddenly the day wasn’t so bad after all. The Edge of Dawn Chapter 2 An hour later I made my way through the mist to the schoolhouse. The exams, carefully separated with dry paper, in hand. Now that my initial excitement at having outwitted the Doctor had faded a little I was beginning to wonder if had been a bit too bold. What I had remembered earlier was a story Granny Barclay had told at one of our Sewing Circles about a young Neil McNeill. The sprightly old women had been quite amused to relay the embarrassing tale. Listening to her talk I felt almost as though I had been there myself, and when she finished I rather wished I had. The story she told had happened many years before, on an afternoon when most of the Cove was gathered for a “playparty”. Neil had been exploring a pond with friends in the warm summer air when a rather large snapping turtle had climbed onto a rock in the middle of the water. Eager to display their bravery and strength the boys had begun trying to catch the turtle, awkwardly dancing around it, back and forth, attempting to avoid the powerful jaws. For the most part the turtle had ignored this and continued to enjoy the sun. Soon however, it had grow tired of the game and decided to fight back. At that point the person closest to it happened to be Neil. Surprising everyone the turtle had risen from its restful position and jumped in the water, swimming straight for him. After a moments hesitation Neil had decided on retreat and had quickly begun wading out of the pond. The turtle was not to be deterred though, and it had followed him out of the water, onto the shore and into the middle of the party. Everyone from the Cove had watched as Neil ran in circles, trying frantically to get away. Aunt Polly, who had been there as well, had broken in at this point, her old body shaking with laughter. “Never did see one of them hard shelled critters move so fast,“ she had said catching her breath, “we all gave a good try at holden in our laughen, but weren’t no use. The sight of that young'un runnin from such a critter was about more than most of us could stand. The poor lad, we all must have remembered on that amusement for ten moons after.” I had ended that day with the thought in my mind to never discuss turtles with Doctor McNeill. I had a feeling his reaction would be unpleasant. Now I had not only broken that promise, I might have in fact, gone a bit too far. I couldn’t help laughing though, as I approached the schoolhouse. As I got closer I noted that all seemed quite. This could be a good or bad sign, I thought to myself. Wanting to listen for a few moments I walked to the edge of the stairs and waited. Just then a cry came from the edge of the mission yard. “United Sates Mail,” called Ben Pentland's familiar voice from the woods. Hearing the children's laughter I felt reassured and thought it might be okay if I took a few minutes to see the mail before I rescued Doctor McNeill. Turning from the schoolhouse I began walking back through the field. I saw Ben appear from between the trees and observed that he was not alone. Walking beside him was a man who I did not think I had seen before. I couldn’t see his face yet, they were still too far away, but his clothes did not look like the kind you would find in Cutter Gap. I noticed tailored pants and a well pressed jacket, which I took to be evidence of the city. I was instantly curious, neither Miss Alice nor David had mentioned expecting company. I hoped this was not yet another business man sent to take advantage of the naivety of the mountain people. As they came closer I realized there was something very strange about this man's face, he was still to far for me to discern details but I couldn’t help feeling that something was out of place. Realizing I had been standing there staring I called a hello to Ben and took a step forward. In a few moments I was close enough to understand what was bothering me. The man walking towards me was actually a woman! Startled I stopped walking abruptly and stood staring at her. I was still trying to comprehend the sight before me when I jumped at the sound of Neil's voice and felt the warmth of his words close to my ear. “If you have finally finished tormenting me, I belive these wee creatures belong to you. “ He had come up behind me and was so close that my that I could feel each of the words as he spoke them. The comforting scent of tobacco and fresh pine was overwhelming my senses blurring my thoughts. I felt myself blush fiercely at his proximity; the day was certainly getting warmer. For the second time that morning I thought how infuriating this man could be. Not wanting him to know he had affected me, I used the distraction of the stranger to hide my reaction. It worked, now Neil had noticed her too and a look of amazement crossed his face. While many of the mountain women were forced to wear pants out of necessity neither of us had ever seen such an outfit on a woman from the city. Trying to disguise my surprise I once again began to walk forward stopping when I reached Ben and his companion. Apparently this woman was used to such reactions as she did not seem at all surprised at my behavior. Confidently she took a step forward and held her hand out to me. “It is very nice to meet you,” she said in a strong voice, “you must be the teacher Mr. Pentland told me so much about on our walk.” Taking my hand she smiled brightly, “Please allow me to introduce myself, my name is Dr. Eliza Thomson.” Summary: In the last chapter Ben Pentland arrives with a mysterious stranger who introduces herself as Dr. Eliza Thomson. Chapter 3 Realizing I was most likely expected to respond I tried to think of something, anything to say. When finally I spoke my voice seemed to come from miles away, “Welcome to Cutter Gap, I am Christy Huddleston and this is Doctor McNeill.” I could here myself saying these words, but I was not really conscious of forming them. In reality I was far from the scene before me, my mind racing in a thousand different directions, questions forming faster than I could focus on them. Why was she wearing pants?, How had she, a woman, become a doctor? And most importantly where had she come from and why was she here? When I had recovered a little and I was once again conscious of my actions, I realized that Miss Alice and David had arrived. David was staring as much as I had been but Miss Alice, though obviously amused, was as calm as ever. “Welcome Dr Thomson, “ I heard her say, “you must be tired after your walk, why don’t we go inside for some refreshment and give you a chance to rest. There is plenty of time for explenations later. I’m afraid unexpected visitors are infrequent here, we seem to have a difficult time with such events.“ She said this with an amused look in my direction. I know my face must have turned a brilliant shade of red because I could feel it burning. Why must I always behave in such an imature fashion. Recovering my voice completely I quickly excused myself, explaining that I needed to return to school . As I walked away I heard Miss Alice invite Doctor McNeill and Ben to join them inside. Neither man I noticed, giving into the urge to look back, declined this offer. They were both following Miss Alice and Doctor Thomson toward the mission house. Now that my embarassment had faded I wished I could go with them but I continued walking in the opposite direction, towards the children who had gathered on the schoolhouse stairs to get a peek at the mysterious stranger. Ruby Mae as usual was the first to speak when I reached the stairs “Is she really a Doc, Miz Christy? I reckoned only men could study on healin.” “It is rather difficult for a women to go to medical school, “ I answered her, “in fact she is the first women Doctor I have heard of . If it was allowed however, I am quite sure that many women would make fine Doctors. No one is going to medical school if they don’t study very hard however, which is why it is time to return to your desks so we can begin our own lessons.” ******* Reluctantly the children had followed me inside, the remainder of the day passing uneventfully. After Creed had agreed to release the turtle at lunch, the children had behaved remarkably well. I was surprised especially as I knew they were dying to spread news of the mysterious women and discover what Miss Alice had learned about her . I too wanted to know what had happened in my absence and found it very difficult myself to make it through the day. After dismissing the children and cleaning up a little I walked back to the mission with Ruby Mae who as usual was talking nonstop. “Oh, Mix Christy, she be about the strangest thing I ever seen! Do you reckon she be from the city? She shore did have pretty eyes.” With a start I realized I hadn’t really noticed her appearance at all. Now that I though about it the only thing I could remember was a large amount of dark brown hair piled beneath a men’s hat. I guess I had been so distracted by the men’s close and her name I hadn’t really looked at her. As we reached the porch I realized the mission was very quiet. Where had everyone gone I wondered. I went inside and put my books down while Ruby Mae looked around every corner as though expecting to find everyone hiding. Finally I found Miss Alice in the kitchen drying dishes from this mornings visit. “Good afternoon Miss Huddleston, “she greeted me, “you are wondering no doubt where our guest has gone.” I smiled a little at my inability to hide my curiosity, “I’m afraid I was, “I admitted. “After the way I acted this morning I wanted to apologize and I won’t deny being a little curious as well.” “A little, Miss Huddleston, “ Miss Alice laughed, “then you are better than I. A woman Doctor is something even I have failed to encounter.” I was more than a little relieved that my curiosity was not just an immature desire to stick my nose in everyone's life. Although I knew that was something I was often guilty off. Miss Alice decided to end my suffering. “Our guest has gone with Doctor McNeill to visit Dan Scott. He thought she might enjoy meeting the rest of Cutter Gap’s medical staff.” I was a little upset that Neil had left without saying goodbye but I told myself this was ridiculous, I had been in school when he left. Besides it shouldn’t matter so much if he failed to say goodbye. I realized Miss Alice was still talking and focused once again on her words, “David has gone with the wagon to fetch her trunk. She will be staying here for a few days so there will be plenty of time for an inquisition later.” She smiled at me knowingly and went outside to pour out the dish water. Ruby Mae having heard Dr. Thomson was not here had left to help spread the news of her arrival, so I now found myself alone in the house. With nothing better to do until everyone returned I retreated to my room with the unrealistic plan to work on the next days lessons. ****** It was well past dark when Dr. Thomson returned, still accompanied by Dr. McNeill. I was a little confused to find that this bothered me, why should their being together upset me? Trying to ignore my strange reaction I went downstairs where Ruby Mae was putting dinner on the table. Yet another possum creation I noticed with disappointment. David, who had returned an hour before was already at the table and Miss Alice was in the doorway with a platter of potatoes. “Dr. McNeill, “ she said noticing Neil and Dr Thomson by the front door, “won’t you join us for dinner. We have plenty.” “Don’t mind if I do,” he answered taking off his coat. “The weather outside is more than I can handle right now.” Now that I was over my shock I was able to really look at Eliza. She wasn’t what I would call beautiful but she was very pretty. Her eyes were large and blue. The closest thing I could think of to compare them to was the color of the sky at dusk, just before the stars come out. Without her hat I noticed her hair was very long and had a slight wave. She was tall and thin, almost too thin, beneath the men’s clothes she wore. As I look more closely I also saw that her face was pale and gaunt, and there were dark circle beneath her eyes. In the light of the lanterns she looked very tired. Removing her coat she smiled at me in greeting and took a seat at the table. Neil followed and sat down next to David. I decided I’d better sit down as well or risk making a fool of myself again. I took the seat across from Eliza and returned her smile. Neil turned to look at me then, a sparkle in his eye, “Good evening, Miss Huddleston, “ he said grinning, “I’m glad to see you survived the afternoon. Those children can be a handful, especially when one is unprepared.” I blushed again for what had to be the tenth time that day. Suddenly I wondered how Dr. McNeill’s lesson this morning had gone. I opened my mouth to ask when David rather rudely interrupted our discussion to ask Eliza how their visit went. I noticed he was regarding Dr. McNeill with a openly hostile glare. It had been five months since he had proposed to me in front of the school house. I had told him then that I needed more time to think and since then David’s relationship with Doctor McNeill had gone from bad to worse. I listened as Eliza told us about her impressions of the Cove. She seemed to have enjoyed the visit very much and had already met several of the local people on her way home. No doubt many of Cutter Gap’s residents had stationed themselves along the path, hoping to “accidently” meet her there. Listening to her speak I thought she seemed very intelligent and thoughtful, not at all disturbed by the differences between the mountain people and herself. As dinner went on I became increasingly intrigued and couldn’t wait to sit down alone with her to ask my own questions. ****** The opportunity came sooner than I expected. After dinner I offered to wash the dishes, having realized I hadn’t helped with dinner at all. I very much wanted to join everyone else before the fire but I acknowledged to myself this would not be fair. To my surprise though, Eliza volunteered to help me. For a few minutes there was an awkward silence between us as we cleared the table. Finally Eliza broke the silence. “ I know you must have a thousand questions to ask me, “ she said with a surprisingly shy smile. Before she ahd seemed so confident, now I thought perhaps it had been a defense against the reaction she usually created. “I actually have a few myself” she continued. I smiled at her a little sheepishly. “I do have a lot of questions,” I admitted, “but first I very much want to apologize for the way I reacted to you this afternoon. I know how it feels to be a stranger here and you certainly didn’t need me gaping at you like I had never seen a person before.” She laughed at my description. “Your eyes did grow remarkably large when I said my name, but believe me that is not the worst reaction I have gotten. One man yelled at me for ten minutes. He went on and on about ‘ troublesome females’ wanting women's rights and the indignity of a women claiming to be a doctor.” Hearing that I had to laugh, I felt much better about my own behavior. I walked into the kitchen to put the dishes in water and when I turned around her expression had changed. “I won’t lie to you, “ she said, her voice becoming quiet and sad, alnost a whisper, “It has not been an easy road, and I have made many sacrifices to my profession.” Her eyes were haunted and she seemed a million miles away, lost in another time. Abruptly she turned to me, fixing me with her gaze. When she spoke there was a strange passion in her voice, “You musn’t sacrifice love and a family for a career, Christy. Don’t wait too long or take it for granted, believe me I know.” Once that was said she seemed to realize what she was doing and backed towards the door. “Forgive me” she said in a quiet voice, “I am very tired. Perhaps we could finish our discussion when I am more rested. “ Not waiting for my answer she walked out the door and up the stairs to her room. As I heard a door close above me I wondered what had happened in her life to create such a strong emotional scar that it haunted her even now. Chapter 4 As I awoke I felt the most beautiful sensation, a warmth that spread across my hands and face. It was the sun! The feel of it on my skin brought me out of sleep in an instant and I opened my eyes to find clear blue sky and miles upon miles of green. The valleys and hills were spread out before me without a hint of mist to obscure them and the field, the field was waving golden in the wind, aglow in sunlight . The view had never been more beautiful! Unable to resist the urge to be outside I braved the cold floor to stand on the balcony wrapped tightly in my quilt. The air, though cool, was so fresh and light it seemed as though the endless days of rain had never happened. As I stood there watching the sun rise higher in the blue sky I could feel my spirits lifting, and the feeling of isolation that had been haunting me all week began to drift away. I had an almost irresistible urge to run outside and cartwheel across the field below as I had done on my first day here. That day seemed so long ago now, as though years had passed. So much had happened since then. Standing there, enjoying the warmth of the sun and the comfort of the quilt on my shoulders, I let the memories wash over me. My eventful arrival in the Cove, the fear I felt on my first day as a new teacher, the relationships I had formed and those I was just discovering. It all came to me as I looked out across the mountains. How much my world had changed! The most significant changes had happened in just the last few months. Five months ago my life had seemed to be lost in a sea of confusion. I could not understand how I, someone who had never been the most beautiful or the center of attention in any situation, had managed to be torn between two men. It seemed impossible on that fall day that it was I standing in the field holding David’s ring. All the dreams of my childhood years could not have prepared me for the reality of love. I wasn’t even sure I felt love for either of the man I stood between, at that moment all I had felt was anger. Anger at David for having put me in this situation, forcing me to make such a difficult decision in front of the children and anger at Neil, for I didn’t know what reason. For confusing me. What Fairlight had said to me that morning had changed everything, I no longer knew what I wanted. When I had seen Margaret at the teahouse I was so certain that she was right, I should marry David. He and I were so comfortable together, there was no challenge to our relationship and that was good, right? But then there was still Neil. I told Margaret that he was worth fighting for, but had I been telling her or myself. I had always considered Neil just a friend, my best friend, but always just a friend. Nothing seemed sure anymore. Then when I saw Margaret and Neil together I knew that I was right, Dr. McNeill was just a friend. I had been foolish to consider anything else, even for a moment. Even with these thoughts in my mind I left the scene of their embrace feeling strangely alone. The only comfort I could find was that there was David, I was finally ready to accept his proposal. Months later it frightens me that I might have leapt into that decision in such a reckless manner. Had the way in which David proposed not made me so angry I might have made a decision I would have regretted for the rest of my life. Thinking about it know I realized that if I had been sure of my love for David I would have been happy with his proposal no matter how he had chosen to do it. At the time I was furious. I had given the ring box back to David and told him I was “not ready to do this now”. Then I had turned from both men, ushered the children inside and spent the day teaching as though nothing had happened. I told David later that I needed time to think and spent the next several weeks enduring awkward conversation and hopeful looks. As for Neil it was a month before I saw him again, at Margaret's funeral. From the little I had learned Margaret had been more sick than anyone knew. The lifestyle she had led at the teahouse had helped her little and after her return to Cutter Gap she grew weaker with every day. I did not see her again after I caught she and Neil in their embrace and I found this made me feel strangely cheated. I knew there had been a part of Margaret that was buried far beneath her reckless exterior. It was the part of her that read Pollyanna, that carried the locket with Neil and Miss Alice’s pictures and that had listened to my words that morning at the teahouse. I wished I could have had the chance to find that piece of her. Most of all I wished Miss Alice could have had that chance. I shivered as I remember the first months after Margaret's death, the change in Miss Alice had been frightening. I was honestly unprepared for how withdrawn and aged she became. There seemed to be no way to bring her back, no way to take the haunted look from her eyes. I still did not now what had happened between Margaret and her but it was something she could not forgive herself for. I prayed to God endlessly to bring her some peace but there seemed to be no answer. Then finally two months later a miracle happened. No one had seen Neil for week, he just disappeared one day, no explination. It was lucky we had Dan Scott because even the most aware of the Coves residents could not find him. I was terrified, anything could have happened. Then one day he appeared out of nowhere, asking to see Miss Alice. I pulled the quilt around me as I remember how tortured he had looked, his face was thin and haggard as though he hadn’t slept or eaten in days. He refused to talk to anyone but Miss Alice. They spent six hours in her cabin and when they reappeared at nightfall, they seemed to be different people. The pain of that had been such a part of their faces had disappeared. I knew they were not completely healed but the worst of it was over and they were ready to live again. It had been a long few months but after that everything finally began to return to normal. I had no idea how much I missed normal. Now the events of the past five months had taken on a surreal quality like a dream. It was a dream I was glad was over. With a start I realized the sun had risen much higher in the sky, how long had I been standing there? Though it was Saturday and no one seemed in a particular rush to begin breakfast or chores I knew there was much to be done as always. I took on last lingering look across the mountains and left the view to get dressed. As I brushed my hair I returned to the window and noticed that someone had appeared in the field below while I had been dressing. Looking closer I recognized the figure as Eliza's. I watched as she crossed the meadow and entered the woods, heading in the direction of Dr. McNeill’s cabin. The same direction she went almost every morning. It had been a week since our conversation in the kitchen and I still had no idea what had caused her to behave in such a strange way. The next morning she acted as though the events of the night before had never happened, she was as confident and calm as she had been when we first greeted her. Though I was still very curious, I decided to ignore our conversation as well. I knew she was probably embarrassed and I did not want to make it worse. Even if I did want to question Eliza though, there seemed to be no time when she and I were alone. She was almost always off with Dr. McNeill during the day, meeting families and helping with treatment. Any free time she had she was spending fixing up an abandoned cabin near the McHones. Every night she would return after the sun had gone down, usually well after we had begun dinner, and would retire as soon as she finished eating. If I didn’t see her at this time I might have believed her arrival had been a dream. The others at the mission were little help in my quest for information. Mrs. Alice had told me, as I pestered her with questions one morning, that Eliza was planning to stay in Cutter Gap for at least a year. That had been all I could get out of her though. Everyone at the mission seemed so busy lately. Spring had come to the Cove, and even with the dark weather, the warming temperatures had melted the layers of snow that had made winter travel difficult. Miss Alice had been gone for several days visiting families in Lufty Branch, which she hadn’t been able to reach for a month and David was busy helping with repairs around the Cove. This winter had been particularly harsh, resulting in many fallen trees, damaged cabins and blocked paths. Now that spring was here everyone seemed to need help and no one had time to tell more than passing details about our visitor. I was beginning to get frustrated at being the only one who knew so little about her. Maybe I should ask Neil I though to myself, a little sarcastically. I was surprised at the tone my thoughts took. I hadn’t realized the amount of time they spent together bothered me so much. Now that I thought of it though, I hadn’t seen Neil all week, I was beginning to miss our discussions. Of course that was why I was upset, I missed his friendship and conversation. I had to admit though, I had been rather busy as well. The spring planting season was to begin in two weeks and there was a great deal of planning to be done for the recitation and the end of the term. I had also been working on a new idea, a project the children could work on during the break. I wanted there to be some way for the traditions and knowledge that the people of the Cove had held for generations to be preserved. As more and more of the mountain people left to work in the cities I was afraid their past would become lost in the rush of modern life. I couldn’t imagine a world without the beauty of Fairlight's quilts or the joy of the old folk ballads. There was so much history here and I could almost see it slipping away. Already old arts like weaving were known to only a few of the elder adults. I had been thinking about this problem for many weeks and finally the answer had come to me. My solution was twofold. On one hand I could help the children, the future of the Cove, to understand their heritage, while at the same time preserving this understanding for future generations as well. Over break I was going to ask each child to learn something from their past. Each one would choose something different and it could be anything from a recipe to an ancient remedy for fever. I would also welcome stories and songs, anything that was important to their way of life. When we returned to school each child would write about what they had learned and read it to the class so that everyone could learn these skills. Then I would put together a box of these essays and my own written account of what the younger children had learned for everyone to share. I was so excited to see what they discovered! A loud bang from downstairs interuppted my daydreaming. Turning from the window I decided I had better go downstairs to see what had happened. I put the last pin in my hair and left the solitude of my room. When I reached the bottom of the stairs I saw that Ruby Mae was in the kitchen working on breakfast. She was just taking biscuits from the oven when I walked in, enjoying the delicious smell. “Goodmornin, Miz Christy,” Ruby Mae said smiling dreamily. She had been in a daze the last few days because of something Rob Allen had said to her. I believe it was something about not missing the sun because her hair reminded him of an autumn sunrise. Since then she had been remarkably quite and uncharacteristically fascinated with mirrors. I had never seen her so eager to comb her hair. I was actually beginning to miss her chatter. Looking at the floor I saw that one of our mixing bowls had been the latest victum of her wandering mind. Ruby Mae what happened?, I asked indicating the mess on the floor. Oh, sorry Miz Christy, she said looking at the mess as though she hadn't known it was there. I don't rightly know were I be puttin my thoughts. Ever since Rob Allen and I went walkin I jus start thinkin on how...her voice trailed off here as she fell into daydreams again. Maybe you shouldn't go walking again, I knew she didn't hear me and I couldn't help smiling at her obvious infatuation. Yes, spring had definately come to the Cove. Since no one else seemed to be around and Ruby Mae was otherwise occupied I decided to go for a walk with my breakfast to enjoy the sunlight. I packed my satchel with some biscuits, a jar of preserves and a bit of goats milk and headed across the field. The air had gotten warmer since early morning and for the first time I felt like it was really spring. A feeling of elation swept over me as I admired the rebirth of nature, the Earth could be so beautiful! As I entered the woods I noticed the air was much cooler here and filled with the scents of spring. The trees along the path were still bare but there was the slightest hint of green at their edges, making them appear hazy. On the ground small tufts of green were pushing their way through the brown leaves and flashes of bright color caught my attention where small buds were opening. Insects flew everywhere creating a gentle hum that collided with the songs of the first returning birds. After days of rain it was perfect! I must have walked for an hour when I realized I had ended up near the McHone’s cabin. I wasn’t really in the mood to visit today so I carefully took a path that would take me around the edge of their yard. After a few minutes I noticed another cabin in the distance. Surprised I crept closer. From where I stood it appeared very rundown, as though no one had lived there for many months. I realized this might be the cabin Eliza was working on. I hadn’t seen it before but the forest on these mountains were so large one could probably live here for many years and never see all of it. Walking closer I could hear movement, I paused, if it wasn't Eliza I didn't want to give away my prescence. After a moment I moved foward. I really was enjoying my solitude but overwhelming curiosity drew me closer. As I approached the front of the cabin I could see that this side looked much better than the rest. Many repairs had been made here already. The porch in front had new poles and several areas on the roof were patched. The yard around the cabin had been emptied of the fallen branches, and litter that I knew had most likely covered it before. Off to one side I could even see a small area of cleared ground which I suspected would be a garden. It would not be a terrible place to live I thought to myself, small and isolated as all cabins were in Cutter Gap, but the woods around it had a pleasant feel. Though I thought Eliza slightly crazy for wanting to live out here by herself, I had to admit she was very brave. As I was standing on the edge of the yard admiring the work that had been done I saw Eliza appear in the front door. “Miss Huddleston,” she said smiling delightedly. “I am so glad you came! I have wanted to talk to you all week but we both have been so busy. Please come in.” I hesitated for a moment, I still did not know her very well and our discussion a week ago had bothered me. I consoled myself that it would be impolite not to accept though. Besides I told myself, even if her behavior had been strange that night she still seemed to be a genuinely nice person. I couldn’t help being draw to her. I made my decision and walked forward smiling. “I’ve never seen this cabin before, “ I said in greeting, “it looks like it will be very nice when you’ve finished though.” “I know it won’t be what I’m used to in the City, and it is so far out, but I fell in love with it when I first saw it.” She looked around the yard smiling, I noticed she looked truly happy. The dark circles beneath her eyes were fading and her face held more shape and color. She turned to me grinning, “Follow me, I think what I have to show you will explain.” We walked towards the back of the cabin, which was still in great disrepair, and through a grove of trees on the other side. Just a few feet from the cabin was one of the most beautiful places I had ever seen. How I had not heard about it in the Cove before I could not imagine. There was a clearing here where someone long ago must have farmed. Now years later it was a field of golden grass blowing in the breeze. There were hints of green where the new shoots were growing and in summer I knew it would be ablaze with the colors of wildflowers. On one side the mountain slopped sharply upward from the edge of the grass, tall trees lining its border. Marking the boundary on the other side was a stream that flowed from the end of a cascading waterfall. Hundreds of fiddleheads grew along the edge of the water, waiting to explode into a forest of green. Moss clung to the rocks where water splashed around them, making them appear soft and inviting. I knew the water would be cool to the touch and the sound of it drew me nearer. It was so beautiful! I could see why Eliza had loved this place. The peace in the air was almost palpable, I felt like I could lie in that meadow for hours watching the sunlit sky fade into starry night. I realized with a start that I hadn’t spoken for a few minutes. Eliza smiled as I turned to face her again, “I see I’ve rendered you speechless again. I seem to be making a habit of that” I laughed at her comment, “This really is a beautiful place, but how did you ever find it. I didn’t even know there was a cabin this close to the McHones.” “I’m not really sure I found it, as much as it found me, “ she smiled enigmatically as she fell down into the middle of the grass. “I was on my way to the mission house after helping Dr. McNeill at the McHones, it was dark and I must have been daydreaming because before I knew it I was lost.” “I must admit I was a little frightened, “ she said with a small smile, “I really don’t know my way around here yet. Then suddenly I was in this field. Even in the dark it was beautiful and it calmed my fears. After a few minutes here I could think clearly and I was able to find my way home. The next day I asked Neil ( I cringed slightly at her use of his first name) and he told me this cabin had been abandoned for years. It was then I I knew I had found my temporary home. “ “It really is peaceful, “I said sitting down next to her, “but why don’t you just live at the mission house. I know you would be welcome.” She gazed off into the field as she spoke and I noticed the faraway look was in her eyes again, “Part of the reason I came here was to have some time alone, I need to think and take a step back from my life. One can hardly do that around Ruby Mae, “ she laughed, her eyes returning to the present. I laughed too, normally this was very true. I still had questions I wanted answers to though so I decided to just ask them. I turned to her and blurted out the first one that came to my mind. “How did you, a women I mean, become a Doctor,” I asked her. “Ah, “ she said, “It was not so glamorous as you might think but I suppose it is an interesting story.” “It has been my destiny since childhood to be a doctor. You see, my father is a doctor and I was always fascinated with his stories. He never let me come to the hospital with him for fear I would get sick, but every night instead of tales of rescued Princesses and slain dragons, he would tell me of his day. I know it seems strange to tell a young girl such stories but I would beg him every night and I was an awfully stubborn child!” I laughed at this, I imagined it was true. “Hearing those stories,” she continued, “I knew that someday I too wanted to be a Doctor. You might have thought my mother would have discouraged me, but then you don’t know my mother. She is a leader in feminist ideas, constantly fighting for "our right to work and vote". She was delighted I wanted to be a doctor.” I tried to imagine her mother being that supportive but all I saw was my own trying desperately to talk me out of coming to Cutter Gap. What would she have done if I announced intentions to become a doctor. Probably locked me in my room until I gave up such crazy notions. “After I finished college,” Eliza went on, “my mother tried to convince my father to get me admitted to the medical school he taught at. At first he refused, more out of fear of my feelings at being rejected than anything else. Finally though he allowed me to take the entrance exam. I found out later that he had changed my name on the exam so that several letters were left out and it sounded like a man’s name.” “I passed the exam perfectly and was admitted for the next fall semester. Until that is, my father, in a fit of paternal pride announced that I was a girl. My place in the school was immediately withdrawn. It took all of my fathers efforts and every favor he had earned to get it back. So finally I went to medical school. I endured the scorn and patronization of my fellow classmates and I graduated six long years later. I worked very hard to reach my goal and lost many things...,: her voice trailed off here and her eyes became haunted again. I wanted so much to ask her what made her so sad but I let the moment pass. Soon she was smiling again as she stood up and brushed off her skirt, I was somewhat relieved that she didn’t wear pants everyday. “And here I am today!,” she said. “Why don’t you come inside and see the cabin,” she continued as I rose from the ground, “I have a sweet potatoe pie that Opal gave me and I would love to share.” I suddenly realized how hungry I was, I hadn’t had a chance to eat the breakfast I had brought. As we walked back to the cabin I asked Eliza if the McHones were okay. I knew the people of the Cove often gave food as payment for medical services and I hoped nothing serious had happened to anyone. A brilliant smile lit Eliza's face as she turned to me and there was a strange gleam in her eye. “That’s right , “ she said, “you don’t know. Opal McHone is pregnant!” Part five coming soon..... ny things...,: her voice trailed off here and her eyes became haunted again. I wanted so much to ask her what made her so sad but I let the moment pass. Soon she was smiling again as she stood up and brushed off her skirt, I was somewhat relieved that she didn’t wear pants everyday. “And here I am today!,” she said. “Why don’t you come inside and see the cabin,” she continued as I rose from the ground, “I have a sweet potatoe pie that Opal gave me and I would love to share.” I suddenly realized how hungry I was, I hadn’t had a chance to eat the breakfast I had brought. As we walked back to the cabin I asked Eliza if the McHones were okay. I knew the people of the Cove often gave food as payment for medical services and I hoped nothing serious had happened to anyone. A brilliant smile lit Eliza's face as she turned to me and there was a strange gleam in her eye. “That’s right , “ she said, “you don’t know. Opal McHone is pregnant!” Summary: When last we saw our heros Christy reminiced about the last five months and visited with Eliza who told her Opal was pregnant. The Edge of Dawn Part 5 A brilliant smile lit Eliza's face as she turned to me and there was a strange gleam in her eye. “That’s right, “ she said, “you don’t know. Opal McHone is pregnant!” I was so surprised at Eliza’s words that I failed to see the rock in the path before me. As a result I got a very detailed view of the ground. “Ugh,” I said rubbing my nose. My head was spinning as I tried to sit up. “Christy!,” I heard Eliza exclaim. “Are you all right? I really need to stop making such alarming remarks.” She knelt down beside me as she examined my head. I didn’t feel so light headed anymore but there was a sharp pain above my right eye and I could feel a warm liquid trickling down my cheek. “Ow,” I cried as Elias touched the skin around my cut. I hoped it wasn’t too deep, the thought of stitches made me feel dizzy again. “Sorry,” Eliza said wincing, “I need to get you inside so I can clean this cut, it may need stitches. “Don’t worry I’m not sure yet but I need to look at it,” she reassured me, I imagined I appeared slightly paniced. As she reached down to help me up I heard the sound of an approaching horse. I didn’t want anyone else to see me on the ground like this so I tried to stand up quickly. Unfortunately I realized as I did that the ankle I had twisted a week ago was once again injured. It collapsed immediately beneath my weight, bringing me and Eliza to the ground in a heap. Darn my pride! “Well this certainly is an interesting sight.” The approaching horse had been Doctor McNeill’s and I could already hear the laughter in his voice. “Do you two often sit in the middle of mountain paths.” Let him laugh, I thought to myself, the pain in my ankle was much stronger now and added fuel to my embarrassment. I was suddenly very angry. “If you have finished laughing at us,” I said turning to face Neil with fire in my eyes, “Perhaps you could be helpful rather than your usual irritating self.” All amusement left his face as he saw the blood on my own. In an instant he was off his horse, his concerned eyes inches from my own. “What happened to you," he aked. The concerned look on his face was more than I could bear, he looked so guilty. Suddenly I realized how silly I was being, I looked at Eliza and we both burst out laughing. We laughed until tears were streaming down our faces. Dr. McNeill looked on with a bewildered expression. As we began to calm down I heard him mutter a confused, “Women!,” under his breath which started me off again. It must have been a good three minutes before I was able to speak coherently. “I’m sorry Dr. McNeill, I’m really fine,” I said wiping the tears from my face. The bleeding seemed to have stopped but I knew what I must look like with my face covered in blood and tears. Dr. McNeill gave me one more bewildered looked before helping me to my feet. Once again my ankle gave way when I tried to walk. In an instant he lifted me into his arms and started walking towards Eliza’s cabin. “Neil put me down!,” I cried, embarrassed once again, “I am not a child! I can walk just fine. “ “No you cannot,” he said,” and I wish you weren’t so all fired stubborn!” “I cannot fathom why you women have to be so independant,” he said giving Eliza a glare as well. When we reached the cabin Eliza ran inside to get some water and a cloth while Neil placed me gently in a chair on the porch. Carefully he removed my shoe and began to examine my ankle. I winced as he tried to move it. “Sorry, Christy,” he said softly, “ you’re lucky it seems to be only a sprain. “ Eliza reappeared with a handful of bandages and a bowl of water in hand. “Its just a sprain,” Neil said turning to her, “ but I think her head might need stitches. Do you have any supplies here?” Eliza shook her head, “I didn’t expect to need them today,” she said. “Could you get my bags then, while I clean this cut?” Eliza nodded and gave me a sympathetic glance as she walked toward the path were Neil had left his horse. Turning back to me Neil fixed me with a concerned gaze. “Would you mind telling me what’s going on here. How did you end up on the ground. You’re usually better at walking Miss Huddleston.” As he spoke his hands where gently touching my face examining the cut. It hurt but not as much as before, and I found his presence comforting. “I’m afraid Eliza managed to surprise me once again and I failed to see a stone in the path as I was walking, “ I blushed slightly at my confession. Turning away from him I looked off into the woods.“I didn’t know Opal was pregnant,” I said, surprised at the hurt I heard in my voice. After all I had been through with Opal I thought it was something I should have known. Now that I thought of it though I was curious as to why the news wasn’t spread as far as Asheville by now. “Ah, that,” he said bringing a wet cloth to my face. I drew in a breath as it touched the skin around my cut. “Sorry, lass.” “How long have you known,” I asked hoping conversation would distract me from the pain in my forehead. “For a week,” Neil said dipping the cloth in the bowl of water. I noticed he looked a little guilty as he said this. “I was going to tell you the day I came to the school but I was a bit distracted.” “Oh,” I said looking off into the forest. “What I don’t understand is why it isn’t all over the cove by now, even Ruby Mae doesn’t know,” I smiled a little as I said this. Neil smiled slightly in response and brought the cloth to my face again. The cool water was actually refreshing as he gently washed the blood from my cheek. “No one knows because I told Opal I wanted to watch her a bit before I was sure this baby would be okay. She had a difficult birth last time and I wasn’t sure she could even carry another child.” Poor Opal I thought, I had not known. I long ago forgave Opal for the death of her daughter. Watching her with baby Iris I had begun to see just how wonderful a mother she could be. I was truly happy for her and hoped this baby would survive. “How far along is she,” I asked. I saw Eliza walking back toward us, carrying the doctor’s bag. “Two months,” he said, “but she’s not out of the woods yet so I don’t want you spreading the news.” He gave me a stern look. “Thank you, Eliza,” he said as she came onto the porch. “All right, Christy,” he said taking my face in his hands, they were warm and comforting and his eyes held such compassion. “I’m afraid this is going to hurt a bit.” I felt lightheaded again at his words. Not wanting Neil to worry I smiled at him, “I’ve had worse,” I said. Eliza handed Neil the needle and thread and I concentrated very hard on Neil's eyes. He had beautiful eyes I realized. There was such intensity in them as he worked but behind that I could see pain, as thought this was hurting him as much as me. Seeing this I understood why he was such a gifted doctor. He had compassion and empathy, and though they were carefully hidden I knew he used these traits with every patient he treated. Before I knew it he was done. I hadn’t felt a thing, I had been too busy watching Neil. Looking away I hoped he hadn’t noticed my scrutiny. Eliza touched my arm, “I really am sorry Christy,“ she said. “I never thought of myself as particularly shocking before but lately I seem to have that effect on people.” I smiled at her, “I’m fine and it wasn’t your fault I was the clumsy one, I seem to remember dragging you down with me.” “Quite right,” she laughed. “I still have that pie,” she said, “would anyone like a piece.” Immediately I remembered how hungry I was, no wonder I had been so light headed. “I would love one,” I said. “Neil, “ Eliza asked. Why did they keep using their first names. I felt an irrational wave of jealousy as I remembered how I had been here for several months before he had suggested I call him Neil. “Far be it from me to turn down food,” Dr. McNeill said as he stood. “ I’ll just put my bags away.” I watched as he walked away. When he disappeared around the side of the cabin I closed my eyes and leaned back in the chair. I really liked Eliza but I couldn’t help feeling that she was taking my place as Dr. McNeill’s friend. In the last week I hadn’t seen him at all and when I finally did it was at Eliza’s cabin. These thoughts made me very sad I didn’t know what to do about them. I knew she and Neil had the connection of medicine, something I could never hope to have. I tried to console myself that it had only been a week and everyone was busy. I really was just being silly, but I was still upset. I tried to distract myself by enjoying the feel of the cool breeze on my face and the sounds of spring that surrounded me. “You look troubled Christy,“ I jumped a mile at the sound of Neil's voice. I opened my eyes to see him standing on the porch before me leaning on a post. He was looking at me with a mixture of concern and something I couldn’t read in his eyes. I had the strange impression that he had been there for several minutes watching me. “I’m fine,” I said, “I just have a bit of a headache.” I smiled to reassure him. “I wonder why,” he joked. I could tell that he didn’t believe me but I was thankful that he let it go. He was still watching me intently and I felt my cheeks flush under his gaze. “Christy,” he said all humor gone from his voice as he touched his neck nervously, “I just want you to know....” “Here we go,” Eliza appeared in the doorway, interupting Neil’s words. Three plates were balanced precariously in her hands. “I made some tea too if anyone would like some?” “I would love some,” I said taking the plate she offered me, the pie smelled delicious. I took a bite and sighed happily. They both looked at me strangely. I guess my sigh was a little louder than I thought. “It is good pie,” Neil said with a grin. He was obviously teasing me. “Sorry,” I said smiling, “I haven’t eaten today. And it is good pie,” I emphasized. “That it is,” he said still grinning. His eyes held a gleam as he looked at me. “Yes it is,” I continued before I realized how silly it sounded. “Here’s your tea,” I was surprised to hear Eliza's voice I had forgotten she was here. What was wrong with me today. I took the tea and continued eating. For the next few minutes Neil and Eliza discussed a patient they had seen the day before while I listened in silence. I finished eating and leaned back in my chair.I suddenly realized how tired I was. It was late and I really needed to get home. Particularly since I hadn’t told anyone where I was going. I didn’t want them to send a search party looking for me. But how could I possibly walk home with this ankle? I decided I would just have to try. “Thank you so much for the pie, Eliza,” I said handing her my plate, it was very generous of you to share. Especially with us,” I said this while looking at Dr. McNeill who was on his third piece. How could he eat so much. I smiled a little at the look he gave me. “I really need to get home though,” I continued. “Yes you do,” said Dr. McNeill scraping the last of the pie off his plate, “and I’m going that way so you can ride with me.” “I am perfectly able to walk,” I said trying to stand. For some reason I wasn’t comfortable with the idea of riding back with Neil. “Miss Huddleston!, must everything be a battle,” I was a little alarmed at how exasperated he looked. I was determined not to give in easily though, so I tried to walk. My body had other ideas, my ankle hurt terribly when I tried to stand on it and looking down I saw that it was swollen to twice its normal size. There was no way it would fit in my shoe. Sitting down again I acknowledged that I was not going to win this argument. “No,” I relented, “you are right, this time,“ I emphasized the last part. “Well this is an amazing occurrence, unprecedented in the history of the cove I believe.” He grinned at me with a mischevous look in his eye. “Dr. Thomson,” he said turning to Eliza, “I wanted to tell you that I will be gone to Low Gap tomorrow. I have informed my patients to call for you or Dan Scott in an emergency. I should be back tomorrow night or the next morning.” “That's fine with me,” she said, “I was looking forward to visiting Opal anyway. “ “Just make sure not to be overly optimistic with her, “ Neil said looking off into the distance, “she is still very fragile, I want her to be prepared for what might happen.” “I’ll keep that in mind,” Eliza reassured him, “although I intend to see that nothing happens to this baby.” Dr. McNeill gave her a strange look before turning to me, “Are you ready for your carriage Miss Huddleston,” he teased. I smiled and let him help me up. My ankle hurt much more than a week ago and even the slightest pressure was very painful. I did my best to hobble with Neil's help but it was a slow walk to the horse. When we arrived Charlie was grazing peaceful along the path. Very gently Neil lifted me so that I could place my uninjured leg over the horse. Then he placed his foot in the stirrup and leapt up to join me. Both of us turned to look at Eliza who was standing beside us. “Thank you for all your help,” I said smiling at her, “I really enjoyed our talk earlier. “ “So did I,” she said giving me a warm smile. “I’ll see you back at the mission later.” “Goodbye, Neil,” she said with a shy smile before turning to walk toward the cabin. Watching her walk away I wondered what was so mysterious about her. One minute she was confident and outspoken, the next quiet and reserved. Most of all though I wondered what she thought of Neil, I had been such a focus this afternoon with my injuries that I had been unable to get an accurate impression of their relationship. I found myself wishing I had a better idea of how they usually interacted. “She certainly is an interesting woman,” I heard Neil’s voice from deep in my thoughts. What did he mean by that, I noticed he was watching her too. Suddenly I was very depressed. Turning away Neil pulled on Charlie's reigns and set off in the direction of the mission. Part 6 coming soon......