The Love of My life Chapter 1 By Kellie W. I'm new to the list, so any rule that you know of, please let me know!! is it possible to be a Neil lass and a David dame? Disclaimer: All right of Catherine Marshall's "Christy" belong to the LeSourd family. I'm seeking no profit, this is simply for my enjoyment! Note: I am using some of the book and some of the Pax series. So, bear with me! I'm also using stuff form the CBS series. So if it's confusing! Chapter 1 "Miss Huddleston! May I have word with you about Creed Allen, Burl and Sam Houston?" Neil's thick Scottish accent startled sent me whipping around, almost falling over the desk chair. There he stood in the door way, his curly red hair wind blown and pipe in hand. This man always seemed to be able to fluster me to no end, I had been putting the next day's lesson on the board. "Ah. Sure. I didn't put them up to any schemes. I wouldn't have any idea about your dead old grandfather coming to visit, again." Christy replied. Neil laughed. I loved the sound of it, it was so hearty. "My word, you do have a good memory, I'd forgotten that little scheme. Actually, they have been in a bit of an accident." Neil said casually, as if it were nothing big, but to me, this was big. It was one of my students! "Accident! How? When? How badly hurt are they?" My reel of questions sent Neil into laughter again. "Whoa, let's slow down. Now, how: trying to save Kyle Coburn's soul. Their little "ghost" fell over, and Creed and Sam Houston have broken arms. Little Burl picked some flowers for Mary, and now has a whopping case of poison ivy. They'll be fine, if they stay still and out of trouble." Neil explained, while running his finger through his hair, as I had seen him do over and over. ‘Out of trouble, try mischief! And don't count on it. They never seem to be able to behave for more and two minutes! When will you be going to see them again?" I was hoping Neil would ask me to go with him, our relationship had been a bit strained since the walk back from the cabin, but I wouldn't ask. It wasn't polite. "Tomorrow, I'll stop by for you, if you would like." Neil responded. "That would be wonderful, if it's not to much trouble." I answered. "You're never to much trouble, Christy." I flushed at this comment and played with the chalk in my hands. I wished I could just fling myself in his arms and declare my love, but my upbringing had taught me other wise. "Well, I best be goin'. I'll stop by around nine, seein' as how it's Saturday." Neil said as he walked towards the door. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ I awoke the next morning to the sun light streaming in the window. I loved to wake up like this, it was so pleasant and quiet, unlike when Ruby Mae woke me up. I took my time getting up, I pulled on my robe and walked to the double french doors in my room and opened them to display a beautiful sunrise against the blue mountains. I sighed contentedly. How I loved Cutter Gap, it was so unlike Asheville. Unhurried, beautiful and quiet, well most of the time it was quiet. I was standing there lost in thought when Neil MacNeill rode up. "Beautiful isn't it?" his voice startled me so much that I jumped, "Ah, yes it is. Quite wonderful." I replied, flustered again, not to mention embrassed to be caught in my robe. "Is breakfast ready?' Neil asked. Alice had invited him for breakfast, oh how could I have forgotten! "I don't know. I haven't be down stairs, Ruby Mae usually wakes me up if I'm late." I replied. "Hmm. How....unrestful!" he replied. "Well, I better get presentable." I said. ‘She looks fine, thought Neil, I wonder what it would be like to wake up with her beside me every morning? Control your thoughts, man! Give her time! Inside I was having a crisis. My hair wouldn't do anything! How was I ever going to get it presentable? Thanks to Neil I was so flustered it would probably fall down half way though the ride to the Allen's. When it was finally presentable, I looked over Friday's homework, completely forgetting about Neil. I wandered down stairs, forgetting that Neil was there, when I heard his voice and tripped on the last step. Neil and David, who had been talking about stilling, heard the crash and came investigate, Neil arrived just as I was recovering and trying to get up. Christy! Are you alright?" he asked as he helped me up. My ankle hurt, I wasn't sure I could stand on it. "Sort of. My ankle hurts, I'm not sure I can put it down." I replied. Neil then picked me up and carried me to the couch, slid off my shoe and began his exam. "It's not broken, but you need to stay off it." he concluded. "But, I was....." "I know, going with me to the Allen's, but your ankle is more important." Neil was firm "It truly is, Christy. You need to be able to walk on Monday for school." This was the first David had spoken. I turned my face towards him, his face was set in a firm, almost angry look. David and I had not been getting along to well, but with Miss Alice's help, it was getting better. "Breakfast!" Called Ruby Mae. Neil lifted me into his arms and carried me to the table. "Miss Huddleston! What happened?" Miss Alice asked as Neil set me in my chair. "I fell down the stairs, my ankle's sprained." I replied. "And she needs to stay off it!" Neil told Alice. "She will! I'll make her! I've got plenty of gossip to tell her! Did you hear about Bessie and......" Ruby Mae exclaimed. I rolled my eyes at Neil just before we bowed our heads for prayer. After breakfast, Neil carried me to my room. "Christy, I hate to leave you, but I need to check on some patients." Neil said regretfully. "I know.' I replied, not trusting my voice. Neil turned to go. "Neil....." my voice trailed off. He turned and looked at me, surprised at the sound of his name. "I'll be back before long, lass." With that one ‘lass' word my heart leaped. Maybe there was hope after all! The Love of My Life Chapter 2 After three days of confinement, Neil let me venture forth from my room. The first day I only attended school, and a short visit to Fairlight's on Buttons.. It was the next day, after school that as I was hanging up my laundry, when Ben Pentlend came riding into the mission yard as I was talking to Neil about Bird's Eye Taylor. " I'm really shocked by this change in him! No one ever expected him to stick around, much less take on a nice streak. And David, he doesn't trust him, but I think this change is for the better." I said, Neil sat close by on a tree stump watching me. He looked thoughtful. "It might be, Christy. But I want you to be careful. I need my medical assistant!" He grinned at this comment. "I thought Dan Scott was your medical assistant." It was more of a statement than a question. "He's in training, your my nurse." Neil responded. "Not a very good one. I fainted at Bob Allen's operation and then I sprained my ankle and couldn't go see the Allen boys. I'm not much help" I ended this with a dramatic sigh. Neil chuckled. "You fainted at Bob's operation because you were a pampered city girl, and Heaven knows why you sprained your ankle." If only you knew why I fell, Neil, if only you knew! I thought. I blushed and ducked my head into the laundry basket "Uuuuunited States MAAAAAIL!!" Ben called. Neil rose from the stump and came forward to greet Ben. "Morn' Miz Christy, Doc. I got you a tely gram here Miz Huddleston, from over Asheville way. Said it was urgent.." Ben said as he handed it down. I took the envelope carefully, as though it might bear bad news, I never got telegrams; Daddy always called. Neil said good-by to Ben and resumed his place on the stump, watching me carefully. I opened it and read the first to lines: "Father. Heart attack. Come quick. Not expected to live. George." It sunk in and then the world went black. If Neil hadn't caught me, I would have hit my head on a rock just behind me. When I awoke I lay on the couch in the living room, Neil was leaning over me looking very worried. "Alice, bring me some strong tea, quick!" Neil called. I sat up and then the memory flooded back. Neil must have seen my face crumple, because he pulled me gently into his arms. "It's ok, lass. I called the hospital, he's serious, but he has a good chance." I lifted my head, hope in my big tear filled eyes. "I don't know what I'd do without daddy, if........." My voice trailed off as I burst into fresh tears, I already had a headache, but I couldn't help it. Neil stroked my hair and talked to me softly. I finally got myself under control as Neil gently wiped my tears. I never knew his big, rough hands could be so gentle. I smiled though me tears, glad to have Neil beside me. David came in just as Alice brought the tea I needed. ‘Here, lass, drink this. You'll feel better." Neil handed me the cup of tea, his arm still around my shoulders. David looked from my face to Neil's arm around me. "What happened?" He asked. Alice called him over and explained in quiet tones, while Neil sat and made sure I drank the tea. "I need to call mother." I said. Neil nodded and helped me up. If only he knew what a comfort his presence was to me. "I love you to Mother. Yes, I'm fine. I'll let you know . Bye." After I talked to her I felt a little better, but I emotionally drained, but before I could sleep Neil, Alice and David wanted to know if I was going to Asheville. "Yes, I need to. Mother needs me and I need to try and see Daddy, just incase...." I said. "Well, you need to someone to go with you." Alice said. "I'll go." Neil said quickly. Everyone turned to look at him in surprise. "I might be some help to the doctors," he cleared his throat. I smiled and nodded. David looked upset, his jaw was set and his eyes were hard. "If it's ok, Christy is tomorrow after noon ok with you?" Neil asked. "Yes, it's fine. Thank you." Alice quietly left and David excused himself to write a sermon. There was a silence between Neil and I. "I want to thank you for coming with me Neil. I know you have work to do." "Christy, if there was more I could do, I would. Your very a special person and so is your father." Neil said.. There was a silence, Neil, assuming that I was to tired to answer said goodby and opened the door to leave. As he got to the door, I sprang to life and ran to the door. "Oh. Neil. I love you.". He turned and pulled me gently to him. "Christy, lass, don't say things you don't mean." "I'm not. I've felt like this for a long time. You broke my heart when you left for Baltimore. But I was so stubborn. I wouldn't listen when you tried to tell me two weeks ago." Neil lifted my chin with his hand, he looked deeply into my eyes for a time, and then said gently ."You need to go to bed. I'll be back in the morning to make sure you eat." He kissed the top of my head and then opened the door and left. I gently closed the door behind him and leaned against it, a small smile danced across my lips, and for the moment the crisis was forgotten. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ I slept in fits that night. I woke not much more rested than when I went to bed. I got up and dressed, made my way down the stairs. Neil was seated at the table, talking to Ruby Mae. "I'm sure Bessie will be fine. It's only a sprained finger." His brogue was exasperated. "But, Doc, don't it hurt somethin' awfully?" She asked. " Doesn't it hurt badly, Ruby Mae. That is the correct way to say it." I said. Neil turned, an amused smile played on his lips. "Yes, ma'am." She answered quietly, and left to help Miss Alice. "How did you sleep, lass?" Neil questioned. I sat down and sighed before answering. "Not well. You could have given me some morphine or something." Neil laughed. "It's not funny. I couldn't sleep!" Neil leaned back in his chair, "Morphine eases pain, Laudanum helps you sleep." he said "Oh,." I said. Neil reached over and touched my cheek. "How are you doing emotionally?" he asked. "Ok, I guess. It's still a shock." Neil nodded in understanding, as Alice brought in breakfast. Blueberry muffins. My favorite, but I just played with it. Alice and Neil shared a worried look. "Miz Christy, don't you like ‘em?" Ruby Mae asked. "I'm sure their great, but I'm just not hungry." I said. Neil looked at me for a minute and then said, "Christy, you need to eat it's a long trip and you'll wish you had." "He's right, Christy, it is a long trip." Miss Alice agreed. I ate 1 muffin for that reason only, but I forced down. It was along ride to El Pano. Neil tried to keep a conversation going, but I just wasn't in the mood to talk. On the train, I glanced worriedly from Neil to the window and back again. Neil noticed this and quietly picked up my hand and rubbed hid thumb back and forth across the back of my hand. "Christy,' he said softly, his brogue thick, "You need to relax or your going to be in knots by the time we get Asheville and then you'll be no good to your mother." "I know, but I can't help it what if....." my voice trailed off. "Life is full of what if's, lass. But you have to trust in God, Christy." It was strange, but comforting to hear these words from his mouth. I nodded and leaned my head on his shoulder and soon fell asleep. The Love of My Life Chapter 3 When Neil gently woke me up some hours later, we were almost to Asheville. ‘Neil, what if he's already.... gone?' I asked, fear in my blue eyes. "Then God will help you, as will I." "Next stop: Asheville, North Carolina. Ten minutes. From that point on, I was in a flurry of excitement and worry. Neil sat calmly and watched with an amused look on his face. "What's wrong? You had a wife, I'm sure she fussed." I said a little more gruffly than I wanted to. "Aye, but she wasn't Christy Huddleston!" Neil responded. My face reddened and I turned to look out the window. When we pulled into the Asheville station, I as mess. Thankfully, Neil was thinking straight! He steered me towards the baggage claims, his hand possessively on my elbow. I thrill ran through me from his closeness and his touch. "Christy!" A voice called. I turned to see my brother George. I ran to him, despite my upbringing, which forbade such a thing. "I'm so glad to see you! You've grown." I exclaimed as I wrapped him in a hug, despite him thinking that it wasn't *manly* in public. "That's what happens, sis. You move away and world just keeps on turning!" He responded with his old jolly nature. Neil came up and touched my arm, "Christy, we might want to head over to the hospital, now." "Oh, yes, your right. Oh, George this is Cutter Gaps best doctor, Neil MacNeill." I almost the introductions. "Cutter Gaps only doctor last time I checked. Pleased to meet you." Neil said as he shook George's hand firmly. "The pleasures mine. Christy's told us a lot about you." "Really? I didn't know I was famous here. Did she tell you good things?" Neil teased, his blue eyes bright. "Yes, many good things. Father was hoping you would come visit soon." George replied. "We better go, mother might worry. And I need to see Daddy." I said, trying to change the subject. It was true I had written a lot about Neil, and not just recently, either. George was trying to catch my eye, so busied myself with straighting my clothes and walking towards the family buggy. It was a short ride to the house, I was glad. Even though I had slept, I was tired and longed for my bed. "They moved Daddy home. The doctors thought he would be more comfortable." George offered. "Is there a nurse coming daily?" Neil wanted to know. "No, we're supposed to call if there is an emergency. I'm sure mother will be much more at rest knowing your here in case of trouble, Neil." Neil and I exchanged a glance. After the way she treated him last Thanksgiving when Daddy had his stroke, we weren't to sure. I started worrying again and Neil smiled. After a late dinner and we had spent some time with daddy, I decided to retire while Neil made an exam. It felt wonderful to be back in my own feather bed and I fell asleep quickly and slept until the next morning. I awoke to a Scottish brogue talking to me.... "Christy, you need to wake up." I slowly opened my eyes and focused on Neil's face, he was smiling. "Why?" I asked groggily. "Because it's after nine thirty." I sat up right in bed. " Why didn't anyone wake me before?" I asked. "Everyone knew you were tired, so they let you sleep. And" Neil said, guessing my next question, ‘ your father is fine. He's asking for you." With that, Neil left and closed the door. I jumped up from bed, threw on my blue dress. Instead of pulling my hair up, I just brushed the curls and pulled the sides back with combs, the way daddy liked it best, then I threw open the door and raced down the hall. Only slowing down when I neared his room, I straightened my dress and calmly opened the door. Neil was taking his pulse, looked up and smiled as I came in the room . "Christy, darling, it's so wondehful to see you again." Mother exclaimed in her eastern accent as she hugged me. I rolled my eyes at Daddy and Neil. "I'll go get some tea. Be right back." Mother left the room and daddy laughed. " Still a drama queen, isn't she, Christy?' "Yes, she is." Daddy looked so pale and thin. I needed to ask Neil some questions, but now was not the time. "Tell me all about Cutter Gap." he insisted. It took me the rest of the day to catch daddy up on Cutter Gap's latest news. David, however wasn't mentioned until Neil left to get some coffee later that day. "How did David take your refusal?" daddy asked. I heaved a big sigh. "Not to well. I think he understood, but he's still angry. . I just didn't love him like that. He thinks I turned him down for Neil." "Do you love Neil?" daddy asked. I looked at daddy and nodded, a faint flush on my cheeks. "Any plans?" he asked, Thankfully Neil arrived back with the coffee at that point and I didn't have to explain that Neil didn't know I loved him.. Daddy and I didn't really get to talk about that again, because I retired to bed early, complaining of a headache. The sun shone high in the sky when I awoke the next morning, but as late as it was I couldn't get out of bed. There was a soft knock on my door as I was deciding wether or not to ring for Ella. "Come in." My voice sounded horse and my throat hurt terribly. "Morning lass. Uh, oh. You don't sound to good." Neil said, crossing to room to my bed. "I don't feel good." "Say ahhh." So I did, boy I felt so dumb. Neil examined me some more and stood back and looked at me. "What's wrong?' I didn't like to look in his face. "Strep throat, lass." he declared. "What? Strep throat. I can't be sick! I came to take care of Daddy!' I wailed, my nose wrinkling in disgust. Neil grinned. "Aye, that you did, but it looks I'll be taking care of you. I'll return with some soup." Neil opened the door and exited. ‘Strep throat! Just great.' I thought ‘By the time I get over this, it'll be time to go home. My thoughts were interrupted by Neil returning. He made sure I ate it all, and then tucked me in with a kiss on my forehead. "You sleep now. I'll check on you later." He headed towards the door and started to leave, "Neil," he turned. "Yes, lass?" if only he what that word did to me. My heart soared, he never called anyone else ‘lass'. "How long till I'm better?" I asked. " ‘bout a week. Don't worry. I'll be back." And he softly closed the door. Outside Neil leaned against the wall. ‘If she keeps this up I'll be asking her father for her hand.' he thought. " But, I already planned to do that.' I slept soundly with sweet dreams of Neil. I wondered if I would ever find out what he had in his heart for me! The Love of my life Chapter 4 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ It was several days after my fever was gone, before Neil let me venture from my room. Daddy was doing much better, so it looked as if we would be returning home soon. I was glad, I missed Cutter Gap, teaching school and Mountie, Miss Alice and all the children, I especially missed Aunt Hattie. She was such an inspiration to me. Blind and still living on her own and not a bit bitter or hateful to God, as some people would be. I knew she had been a big help in Neil coming to faith, beside the little scare I gave him. Neil knew he had to talk to Daddy, before we left. It was a sunny day, several days before we left. I was out walking in the garden and talking to Aunt Della, while Neil was attending to Daddy. Neil was looking through his bag for something when Daddy asked Neil, "You have something on your mind, Doctor." Neil looked up, "Aye, you're right I do." Neil walked over to the double french and stared out for some time before speaking, daddy waited patiently. "Mr. Huddleston, Christy is a wonderful young woman. She's truly an inspiration to me and all of Cutter Gap. She's wonderful with children, and...." Neil stopped, ‘I've never done this before, Lord. Please help me and guide my words." He prayed silently. "You needn't sing Christy's praises to me. I'm her father. She has to be great." "May I have her hand in marriage?" This came out in a rush. Daddy smiled and nodded. "Yes, you may, Neil. Take good care of her." Relief flooded Neil's face. "Thank you, sir. I promise to take excellent care of her!" It was several days after this that we traveled home to Cutter Gap. By the time we reached the mission, I was extremely tired. It was hard to leave Daddy, but I missed Cutter Gap. After my bags had been taken inside by David and Neil, Neil decided he had better head for home. I followed him out to Charlie. "Neil, I want to thank you for all you did for Daddy, for taking the time to come along." I heisted, "It meant a lot to me." An odd look crossed Neil face, then he smiled, "My pleasure, Christy. I'd been meaning to go see him." To cover my surprise of this last statement, I resumed talking. "Would you come to the party tomorrow? It's the last day of school, and I always have a party." "But you haven't been here to plan." "I left in good hands, Ruby Mae." "If you want Possum Surprise." Neil and I laughed over this. "Good night, Miss Huddleston. I will most certainly be here tomorrow." As I watched him ride away, the darkness swallowing him up, my heart stirred a little. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Early the next morning, Neil rode over to Fairlight's. "I've got to talk to you." Neil explained, breathless. After putting Zady in charge she and Neil walked over a grove of trees. Neil paced back and forth, while Fairlight sat and watched. "How would you...ask someone to marry you?" Neil asked. "Would you be asking about Miz Christy?" Neil turned. "How did you..." "How did I know? Neil, I've known you since you were in diapers, and I'm over at the mission every day. I see the stars in yours and Miz Christy's eyes." "Fairlight, I really need help. It's been so long since......" Neil let his voice trail off. ‘Take her on a walk and then just ask her." Fairlight said. "It's that simple? You mean all I have to do is ask?' Fairlight laughed. "Fairlight Elizabeth Spencer! Don't you dare laugh at me!" But even Neil had to grin. "I guess I'm being silly, huh?" Fairlight nodded. Neil looked at his watch. "I've gotta go. I promised Christy I'd come early to help her set up. Thank you, Fairlight. I'd be lost without you." "You and Miz Christy both. Good luck!" Back at the mission, I was struggling to hang up streamers, when Neil came riding up. I sighed with relief, maybe he could help. David had disappeared early this morning, and I was doing his job. "Ruby Mae said you needed a knight to rescue you." Neil said as he mounted the school house steps. "Only if my knight can hang streamers, blow up balloons, and have fun" Neil turned around and whistled in awe. "You did all this? It looks great." I blushed, as I climbed down from my chair. "Thanks. I wanted to give them a real party this year. Daddy sent everything. Neil proved to be excellent in hanging streamers and blowing up balloons. After eating, the children started to arrive. Their eyes grew wide and looks on their faces made me smile. There was dancing, eating, and games. I was over talking to Miss Alice, when Neil came over. "...have no idea. Ruby Mae said he only stopped to eat breakfast. If it wasn't for Neil, I's still be decorating." "That you would, Miss Huddleston." A thick Scottish brogue agreed. I whirled around. "I would have managed some how." I retorted. "No doubt. May have this dance?" I smiled. "Of course, doctor." We waltz for several minutes before Neil broke the silence. "Would you care to take a walk with me tomorrow around 11:00. I need to talk with." "Yes, that would be very enjoyable. I'll bring lunch." "Is brunt chicken and blackberry cobbler on the menu, Miss Huddleston?" Neil asked with a grin. "Neil MacNeill! How dare you." ‘And why did the chicken burn?" he asked. "That's a story for much later. Now hush, No more burnt chicken stories." "Yes, ma'am. And if I do?" Neil ventured. "I'll.. I'll...I'll serve you more burnt chicken." Coming up with the best I could think of on the spot. Though who could think when Neil was so close. He smelled of pipe tobacco, soap and the woods. It was quiet comforting in a strange way. The rest of the party was uneventful. I fell into bed completely exhausted. I awoke early to fix the picnic. Neil arrived promptly. We rode a ways before Neil stopped in a pretty grove of trees by the creek. We tethered our horse and walked a little. I hadn't noticed Neil had been holding my left hand, but when he stopped, he took the one in his hand. He looked into my eyes for several seconds before speaking. "Christy, I'm very good with words, so bear with me." I started to worry was he moving to Baltimore? But Neil was speaking again. "Christy, your the most special person I know. Will you marry me?" He pulled out a sapphire ring with a little diamond on each side of the stone. I gasped. I couldn't speak, I had waited so long to hear these words. I had dreamed many times about this moment and all the things I would say, but I couldn't remember any of those things. "Christy, please say something! I love you!" I looked into his eyes. "Yes, Neil! I would be honored to be your wife." Neil whopped and pulled into his strong embrace and kissed me. I don't know who pulled away first, but it wasn't me! "Oh, Neil. I've longed to hear those words forever." He smiled and kissed me again. We walked slowly back to where the horses were waiting. "When should the date be and where?" Neil asked. "Well, it's the end of June now, so how about.... the first of September, the fifth. And how about having the ceremony right here in Cutter Gap." We talked over the many details over lunch, which was unburnt chicken, potato salad and cookies for dessert. We rode back much later. I was behind Neil, on Charlie, ride happily along; thinking back over the day. We arrived at the mission much to soon. Neil helped me off and then took me into his arms. "I didn't tell you about the ring. All the stones came from Scotland. This ring was my great, great grandmothers." I leaned me against hiss chest and listened. "My grandfather brought for their 50th wedding anivesary." I looked up at Neil. "I'm honored to wear it. I hope we're married just as long." Neil leaned down to kiss me. "Only two and half months until I came take you home for good." I smiled. "We'll phone my parents tomorrow." Neil agreed. And with one more kiss he left. Good night, lass. I'll drop by tomorrow." I smiled. As I walked up to my room. The words: "Two and a half months" rang in my head. Tomorrow proved to be a wonderful day!! Chapter 5 I awoke early the next morning, my heart singing. I lifted my left hand stared at the ring, funny how the stone was my birth stone. After laying in bed and daydreaming for several minutes, I dragged myself from bed. It was late when I finally fell asleep, and I normally would have been exhausted, but I walking on clouds. I dressed and pulled my hair back with combs, the Neil liked it best. I walked down stairs and h of happiness. I dress slowly and headed down stairs towards the kitchen. Ruby Mae was making pancakes. "Mornin' Miz Christy. Ain't it a beautiful day?" "Yes, it is wonderful!" "I vow and declare! This whole thing with you and the doc is just sooo romantic! I want you to write down everything you do so my wedding can be just like yours, ‘course, I'll have Rob instead of the doc... Miz Christy? Have you heard a word I said?" "Yes, I heard. Ruby Mae, writing all I do down is going to take a lot of time." I replied as I fried some bacon. Footsteps sounded on the steps and Ruby Mae jerked her head up and smiled. Neil put his fingers to his lips and Ruby Mae nodded. My back being to the door, I didn't see Neil come in and miss toke him for David. "David, Miss Alice wants to see you, something about Opal. And Jeb needs to see you. This is all urgent too." Neil walked over and slipped his arms around my waist and kissed my neck. "Mornin' lass." I dropped my spoon and spun around only to find myself closes to Neil. "Neil! You scared me half to death!" I cried. "Sorry." "You don't sound sorry." I commented. "I'm not!" I gasped at him and his arms tightened around me as Ruby Mae slipped out the door. "Neil, your impossible." He nodded and kissed me sweetly. "Ruby Mae's in here." I whispered. "Nope, she went to feed the chickens." As I leaned my head against him, and sighed. I couldn't wait to be married. Then, as I was thinking these wonderful thoughts, Neil broke in: "Ah, Christy, do I smell something burning? "My cake!!" I leaped for the pot holders and Neil opened the oven door. I pulled out a flaming cake, and set it in the sink and pumped water over it. Alice and David came running into the kitchen. "What happened?" Alice asked. And David wrinkled his nose at the smell. "I burned my cake." I wailed. Neil grinned. "First a chicken and now a cake. Maybe I should say away when you cook." I turned and glared at him. Ruby Mae chose that moment to come back inside. "What happened?" "Christy burned her cake."Neil said. "What kind was it any way?" David asked. "Chocolate. I guess we'll be having cookies for dessert tonight." "Wow, Miz Christy! That thing sure is burnt." "Maybe you could scrape off the burnt stuff and eat the inside." David suggested. "David, don't you have a sermon to write?" I asked. "Nope. It's breakfast time. I never write between 6:30 and 10:30 am. I have to write late at night, like around midnight." I sent him a glare that matched the one I sent to Neil early and moved the help bring the food into the dining room. Neil followed and whispered in my ear as I set down the platter of pancakes, "Was that cake for me?" I nodded. "Don't feel bad, lass, I still love ya." I smiled. "That's good, because you might have some burned food for several weeks after we're married." "That's fine. I can always skip over to Fairlight's." His comment received a swift wack on the arm. We sat down and David asked the blessing. Conversation around the table was lively. Miss Alice volunteered to do the dished, so Neil and I could call my parents. "Maybe you should talk to Daddy first and then I can talk to Mother." I said. "Why?" "Because, you're supposed to ask daddy." "Already did." I stared at him. "When?" "When we were in Asheville." "Oh." I called "home" and listened while it rang. "Hello. Julie Huddleston speaking." "Hi Mama. Will you get Daddy on the other phone. It's important." "Christy, darling, are you hurt? What's wrong?" "Mama, just get Daddy please, I'm fine." "Ok, We're both here, Christy.' "Well, Neil and I are getting married." I smiled at him and he slipped his arm around me. "Oh, Christy! That's wonderful! Now, we'll have to book the church, and contact the baker, and Mrs. Shaw about your dress. Oh, there's so much to do!." "Mama, Neil and I want to get married here. And Fairlight can bake the cake. And I know the exact dress I want." "Christy, darling, you want to get married in Cutter Gap? That God forsaken place? Was this Neil's idea?" I sighed and rolled my eyes at Neil. "Mama, it was my idea. And yes, I want to get married in Cutter Gap. I don't belong in Asheville. I never liked that afternoon teas and now I really don't fell comfortable." "Well, if your sure. I'm going to let you talk to you father now." "Daddy, please talk to her. I can't stand it." Daddy and I talked for several more minutes and then said goodbye. I walked over to the door way and leaned against the door jamb and let out an exasperated sigh. Neil came over and put his arms around me, resting his head on mine. "She doesn't understand. I don't like Asheville. I don't belong, why can't she be like Daddy?" Neil turned me around to face him and gently wiped my tears. "Christy, it's hard for her to understand because she hasn't known any other life. He thinks because she belongs, you should also." I buried my face in Neil's shirt and said something he couldn't understand. "Christy, what? I could understand you." I lifted my face. "I said, she doesn't me to marry you because she's afraid I'll never come back to Asheville and be her little girl again. I've changed and she doesn't like it." I started to cry again and Neil pulled me to him again. His embrace warm and secure. "Lass, no matter what your mother thinks or does, nothing can come between the love we share. Nothing. I promise you." I looked at him and wiped my tears. ‘Really?" I asked. "Really. Far beyond till death do us part." We sealed the promise with kiss. ‘Now, promise me you won't cry anymore today, ‘cause I've got rounds and I can't here 24/7 to hold you." I smiled agreed. "You gonna be ok for a while?' I nodded and he picked up his bag and kissed me again, before leaving. ****************************************************************************** That afternoon, I went to visit Fairlight. It was a beautiful day and I was enjoying the ride, who would I happen to come upon, but Creed, Little Burl and Sam Houston. ‘Burl, will you hush up and listen. Your gonna miss the whole plan. Now, remember preacha said we had to minister to others and get ‘em to God? Well, I here that Birds eye Taylor ain't saved. So we gotta save his poor, old soul." "But, Creed, remember what happened when tried to save the Doc?" Burl asked. "Burl, will you just shut up. That was a mighty stupid plan of mine, so we've got to think up somethin' else. The Doc was not a good one for us to be messin' with." "But, why would God want the likes of Birds Eye. I mean all he does is sit on his back side all day and drink whiskey, or goes and shots at people. Won't Heaven be dangerous if he's up there?" Sam Houston asked. "Your dad sits and drinks." "Yeah does yours, but they don't go shootin' people." "Preacha said that you don't take no earthly stuff to Heaven. And if preacha and Miz Christy said we gotta save people, we gotta, Sam Houston." "Ok, so he won't have gun, but he'll have his fists." Burl reminded them. "Sure, so will we. But, I don't dare disobey Miz Christy, ‘specially since she took my pea shooter away." "But you was talkin' class." Sam Houston replied. They still hadn't seen me, so I was just about to ride away when Creed said, "Ok, fellows, here's the plan........" ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ As we sat around the table for dinner talk was lively, but I heard non of it. Only after Ruby Mae had cleared the dishes, brought out the cookies, did Neil ask me what was wrong. "Christy, Christy!" I jerked my head up. "What?" Neil, and Alice smiled. "What's wrong, you've been extremely quite tonight. Anything wrong?" Neil asked. "You might think so." I replied. Neil's face fell. "You don't want to marry me?" "Neil, of course I do. That's not it at all. This has to do with The Three Musketeers." "Well, do tell us. I'm rather interested, do I need to be worried. It's not like their going to save Cutter Gap, are they?" "Actually, I meant Creed, Little Burl and Sam Houston." Neil raised and eyebrow. "Proceed." "Well, on my way over to Fairlight's today..." I told them the whole story, stopping to catch my breath before telling of their plan. "What do they plan to do?" David asked, entering the conversation for the first time. I grinned at Neil, and he groaned. "The dead grandfather thing is not going to work. Birds Eye's grandfather is still alive and I wouldn't try the seven plaques, either." "That wasn't their plan. Their going to use your burning bush idea, and then pour out all his whiskey and leave little note lying around. Like the "Repent" one. Then they decided to paint his windows black." I sat back in my chair and grinned, Alice, and Neil were having a terrible holding their laughter. David, however, was not laughing. "You know who he's going to blame this on don't you? The mission, all of us. Maybe even you." Me? Your the one who got carried away with the stills." I retorted. "You need better control over your students." "What? I can't run all over the country side chasing after the children, telling them what not to do. It isn't my job and I don't have the time." ‘Maybe if you taught them better in the class room. And hadn't chased after Neil so much." our voices were getting louder, "You will not talk about Neil or I like that. I don't know what business of your it is what I do with my life." David stood up, opened the door and walked out, slamming the door behind him. The three of us sat in stunned silence until I quietly got up and walked out on to the porch. Neil found me in tears. "He never used to be like this. I don't know what happened." I cried as Neil put his arms around me and held me close. "Christy, he's just jealous because you love me and no him. He's bitter. And only God and can help him now." Neil held me for along time and talked softly. I knew this was going to be hard. The Love of My Life Chapter 6 "Disaster Area" ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ Finally, after weeks of waiting in anticipation, sharing long walks with Neil and a lot of planning, it was only four days before the wedding. I rolled over blinking from the bright light pouring in my window. I smiled and laid my hand on the empty space next to me. In just four days and eight hours, I would be Mrs. Neil MacNeill! I was extremely excited. I slowly got out of bed and started to dress. As I fixed my hair I thought of the chore ahead of Fairlight and I. We had to clean Neil's cabin, hang curtains, and moved some of my stuff into his cabin. I finished my hair and bounded down stairs. "Good morning!" I said. Neil looked up from his conversation with David to wink and smile at me. I returned his smile and headed towards the kitchen. Fairlight looked up from her skillet and laughed. "Aren't you in good mood, especially since we have all this work ahead of us. Neil's cabin is awful." "Last time I was in it was only fit for a bear." We all had a good laugh until Neil's voice startled us. "What are you laughing at? Has Christy been criticizing my cabin?" "Oh, yes. She says it's awful." Ruby Mae said. Neil grinned and said. "I guess I need to talk to her then, huh?" Neil took my hand and pulled me towards the door. I set down my knife and followed him out the door. "Neil MacNeill, you need to learn to behave! What's Ruby Mae going to think?" I asked as we walked. Neil stopped in a grove of trees near the school house and took me in his arms and looked deeply into my eyes.. "She'll think I'm and ol' doc head over heels in love in love with a beautiful school teacher." I giggled. "Neil, what did want to talk to me about." "Oh, if you need anything for the house, let me know. I have an account at Fuller's in El Pano. I'll be staying at Fairlight and Jeb's place after today. Fairlight said I would get it too dirty. It's only four days, but still! Dirty!" "You would get it dirty." I replied teasingly. "How dare you, Miss Huddleston! You must pay your fine for saying that." I giggled "What's my fine, doc?" I asked. "This!" Neil started tickling me until I so out of breath I couldn't speak. I caught my breath and Neil kissed me tenderly. "I guess I better get you back to the house, lass. We need to eat." Neil's stomach growled in agreement and I started to giggle again. "Your sure giggling a lot to day." Neil commented. "It's the nerves." I replied as we walked. "Nerves? What nerves?" "Neil," I said slowly. "I've never been married before, so I guess I'm nervous.' "But you still want to marry me?" Neil asked holding his breath. I stopped on the porch and turned to him. "Of course! Nothing could ever change that! I love more than anything!" He took me into his arms again and held me close. "Good, because I couldn't live with out you!!" We kissed again before returning inside for breakfast. ****************************************************************************** If I thought that cleaning Neil's cabin was going to be easy, I was wrong. The place was even worse than when I was here last week. The dishpan was over flowing, there was a huge pile of dirty clothes, and not to mention the inch of dust on every piece of furniture and all the medical books all over the house. This was going to be a big job, so Fairlight and I made a list and looked like this: — wash dishes — dust — scrub floors — wash cloths and linens — put books away — wash windows — hang curtains — clean cabinets and so on. To do this list thoroughly it took us three days. Since the wedding was to be on Friday, Fairlight and Opal insisted that I rest and they would finish the house. By the time Fairlight and I blew out the lamps late Wednesday night and rode home, Neil's place looked much better, even presentable. I had bought some new white curtains edged with lace for the bedrooms and the living room. The kitchen and blue and white checked one, with little yellow flowers in the white squares. The floors were scrubbed and polished, the windows shone and the furniture looked clean enough to sit in. The kitchen looked wonderful! All the dishes were clean and tucked into the cupboard. The linens were dry and folded away in a chest of drawers. I was extremely happy with progress we had made. Fairlight and Opal only had to make the beds, polish the floors and sweep the porch. "How can he stand things so messy?' I asked Fairlight on the ride home. "‘Cause he's a man an' men don't pay attention to details like thet." "But his laboratory is as neat as a pin! I just don't understand him!" I exclaimed. "Men are mysterious, Miz Christy. Don't try to understand ‘em. I've been tryin' for nigh twenty years now, and I still haven't shed any light on how they think." Fairlight had given me a lot to think about, so I bid her good night and turned in. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ The next day I awoke with the jitters. My parents were arriving today and Neil had voluntered to go pick them up. I was bored along mid morning, because I wasn't allowed to lift a finger. I walked over to the piano and worked on scales for awhile before becoming tired of that, so I pulled out a song book and attemped to play "After The ball Is Over" but I was missing several motes and my timing was way off, but I pushed on and slowly got better, until I was startled. "Afternoon, Miss Huddleston. Mighty nice playing." Neil greeted me. I hit a sceeching discord and whirled around. How long had he been there. "But Neil, that was awful! It would sound better if I'd had more practice." I protested. "You have to stop sneaking up on me like that!" "Why?" Neil asked. "Beacuse... it. it isn't nice." I finall y mustered. "Why?" "Because it isn't!" Neil walked over and pulled me up from the piano bench and pulled me into his embrace. "Christy, I'm going to go pick up your parents now. I'll be back later." "Neil, can't I please come with you? I'm bored to tears!" ‘It wouldn't be proper, lass. I'll be back." With a quick kiss Neil left. It was a long boring day. I made an attempt to mess with my hair for tomorrow, but I had no luck. Mother would just have to help me. Neil and my parents arrived late that night. Neil excused himself saying the bride needed her beauty sleep, and then telling me tenderly outside that I didn't need beauty sleep, that I was already stunning. Was it possible that the world held such a wonderful man? I slept restlessly and awoke early, ready to be Mrs. Neil MacNeill! Chapter 7 I awoke just as the morning light was beginning to shine. It's fingers of golden light danced across the floor. I lay in bed dreaming about being married to Neil, when my dream was suddenly broken. "Rise and shine Miz Christy! It's your weddin' day! Aren't you excited? The Doc is just so wonderful! I can't wait until I marry Rob. The doc's real nervous, he's already cut himself three times while shavin', that had to hurt!" With that whirlwind of information and questions, Ruby Mae left my room. What would it like to wake up in peace and quiet? I wondered. I didn't waste anytime get up and dressed, I was too excited, and nervous. As I waltzed down stairs, I hummed something that sounded liked "Here Comes the Bride", but you couldn't be sure. "Morning Miss Alice, and Ruby Mae! It's a perfect day for my wedding." I said smiling, as I picked up a knife to slice bread, "That it is Miss Huddleston, but thee doesn't need to work today." Miss Alice replied kindly. "But, if I don't I'll go crazy! Please, just this once? This my last day here. And besides, I wouldn't feel right not helping." I pleaded. Miss Alice agreed, and I happily set to slicing bread. We worked in silence for several minutes, except for my out of tune humming, before foot steps sounded at the kitchen door. I assumed that David had passed by the house, until strong arms encircled my waist. "Morning lass." Neil thick brogue was close to my ear. "Neil MacNeill! You are not supposed to see me before the wedding, it's bad luck." "Actually, I checked that one out." He said straighting up. "I can see you, just not in your wedding......" "Attire." I supplied " Right, besides, you need to take a walk.." "But, Neil, I'm helping with breakfast." I said. "Alice, I'm surprised at you putting Christy to work on her wedding day." Neil teased, his blue eyes sparkling, and with that little curl, that just wouldn't behave, hanging down over his forehead, he looked incredibly boyish. My heart jumped a little at the sight of him and I remembered for the thousandth time just how much I loved Neil MacNeill. "Miss Huddleston insisted. She said she'd go crazy if she didn't help." Miss Alice said. "Aye. I knew she'd be excited. Come on, I've got something to show you." Neil said pulling on my hand. "I'm excited? What ever gave you that idea? You sure do jump to conclusions easily, Neil." I said as he pulled me out the door. ‘They sure are in love aren't they?" Fairlight asked. "That they are. If I've ever seen true love, that would be it." Alice replied. "I hope it'll last." Fairlight said wistfully. "It will, don't worry. This wedding is not a mistake!" "Miz Christy wrote down every thing she did, so my weddin to Rob can be just like it" Ruby Mae said. "I didn't know thee and Rob were getting married." Alice said, setting down the knife and looking at her. "We are, Rob just don't know it yet! But it'll be just perfect......." Outside Neil I were walking down a trail towards our favorite place. A little cove, set some ways off the trail, next to a brook that sparkled like diamonds in the morning sun. It's little song, that all brooks sing, was quiet and very peaceful. Neil led me over to our favorite log. "I'm not going to waste anytime getting to the point, because breakfast is going to be ready and I'm starving." Neil said. "Is all you think about your stomach?"I asked. "When I'm not thinking about you." he shot back sweetly, as his hand reached into his coat pocket. Even though it was early September, the mornings still carried a slight chill. "Christy, this was also my great, great, grandmother's. My great, great, grandfather gave it to her on their wedding day. And now I give it to you." Neil handed me a small, blue, velvet, box. I held it gently and used the very tips of my fingers to open it. I caught my breath in a little gasp. "Oh Neil! It's beautiful. Thank you." Neil lifted the diamond bracelet out of the box and put it around my wrist, before pulling me into his arms ans kissing me tenderly. I stayed in his arms until Neil broke the silence. "We need to get back, breakfast will be ready soon." This comment received a good wack on the arm. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ After hours of waiting in anticipation, it was only a half an hour until I walked down the aisle. Personally, I wasn't sure I could stand thirty more minutes with my mother, when daddy recused me. "Perhaps Christy would like some time to herself." "But she needs me." my mother insisted. "Mama, I'll be fine. I just need to think ok?" Finally she left. I sank into my chair, grateful to Daddy. I'd have to thank him later. I sat think back over my year and a half in Cutter Gap. FLASHBACK: "It's seven mile to Cutter Gap. And in This snow it ain't fittin' for no woman." "Please, I have to get Cutter Gap." "Welcome to Cutter Gap, Miss Huddleston." "Generally go by Sam Houston." "This be Scalawag." "I love you Christy." " i saw you a kissin' the preacher." "David, I can't marry you. I'm too young" "It's Scarlet Fever." "Marry me Christy, I love you." "I would be honored to be your wife, Neil" "Rob an' I are gettin' hitched!" These thoughts and many others flashed though my mind. So much I had learned, how to cook, well sort of, to wash clothes, to teach and how to be taught. So much these wonderful people had taught me, and now, Lord willing I'd living among them the rest of my life. A knock interrupted my thoughts. "Neil MacNeill, if that is you. Go away. You can't see me, I in my wedding "stuff" as you put it." "Ah, it's David." "Oh, come in. I'm so very sorry! I had no idea." I replied. David came and stood by the window. "I wouldn't be to hard on Neil, he's already cut himself four times while shaving today. And he said for you not to be nervous. And he forget how to tie his tie." I giggled and stopped twisting my hands. "He done all that and he's telling ME not to be nervous?!!" David nodded. There was silence for several minutes as I finished fixing my hair and put on my great grandmother's pearl neckless. "Christy, I want you to know that I'm really sorry about how I've acted over the past few months. There is no excuse for how I've acted and I know that. I want to be friends again. I took advantage of our friendship and I'm ashamed to think that I did that. I'm asking for your forgiveness and friendship." "Well, you did take advantage of our friendship, and there is no excuse for your behavior.." I stopped and grinned. ‘Of course I forgive you , David. And I would be glad to renew your friendship." I reached over and gave him a friendly hug. He stepped back and gave me a good look. He whistled. "The doc's a lucky man. I need to go, he wanted to know exactly what you look like." with that comment he ran out he door. I picked up my skirts and ran to the door, angered. "David Nathaniel Grantland! You come back here this minute! Your in big trouble!" I yelled down the stairs. After waiting a minute, I turned and went back to my room. Mother come running down the hall. "Christy! A lady doesn't yell! What happened?" I looked at mother and burst into nervous giggles. "David...came... and apologized ...and then.. Left to.. Tell Neil...what I look like." I said between giggles. Mother stood in the doorway and looked at me in surprise. "Christy Rudd Huddleston! You surprise me!" "What's wrong, Julia? And Christy, stop laughing, or your mother won't be able to do her job and cry during the wedding." Daddy said gruffly. "How much longer?" I asked, trying to stop. "Two minutes. We got to get down there now." I began to panic "Mama, where's my veil? Is my hair ok? My shoes on the right feet?" "Your veil is on your head and everything is fine. You're about to marry a wonderful man. He loves you with all your heart and you love him. God will be with you all of the days ahead. Don't worry! I need to go take my seat. Remember, Your father and I love you!" "Mama, I'm gonna cry." "No you not. You don't have time." Daddy said as he took my arm and led me down the stairs. ****************************************************************************** Neil stood nervously at the alter, his hands clenched nervously in font to stop him from running his hands through his hair. As Aunt Hattie started to sing "O' Perfect Love", Ruby Mae and Zady started down the aisle When they parted to take their places beside Jeb, Neil finally saw me. He almost gasped out loud, he was at a loss for words. My white satin gown with a square neck that wasn't indecent, but not decent either, by my mother's standards, set off my long neck. The sleeves were slightly puffed and came to a point at my wrist. Little soft ringlets fell softly around my shoulders. Daddy kissed me on the cheek, and mother started to cry. Neil came forward and took my hand, while mouthing, "You look wonderful!" I the service went fast and when Neil and I said "I do" I could hear mother burst into fresh tears. It must be hard to lose your only daughter, but I couldn't think about that or I was going to cry also. David was now saying: "I now pronounce you husband and wife, you may kiss the bride." Neil put his hands on my waist and the people cheered. I never would understand these people! "I now present to you Doctor and Mrs. Neil MacNeill!" Those three little words ‘Mrs. Neil MacNeill" were enough to make my heart soar. ****************************************************************************** The reception was fun, when I was trying to feed Neil his piece of cake, someone made a comment and Neil turned to answer, and my hand just kept going, towards a mouth that wasn't there. He had icing all over his cheek. He then picked up a huge glob of icing and set it on my nose. Mother was not to happy, this was not the Asheville wedding she had wanted. She was trying, though, I'm grateful she didn't talk about all the ‘wonderful men in Asheville'. Neil finally decided we better go talk to some people and so we made our way from behind the cake table. "Christy!" I turned, that voice sounded so familiar. "Angie? What are you doing here? I thought you had exams." "I did, do. I brought them with me, but I haven't had ac chance to work on them. I'm ready to go get some food, how about you?" "Well, it looks like Neil won't be ready for awhile, and I'm really surprised, he's always eating or at least thinking about it. I'm going to let him know where I'll be." After that was taken care of Angie pulled me to the table filled with food. I helped her pick out what to eat. "No, don't get that." I said. "What is it?" Angie asked. "Possum." I watched her nose wrinkle. "My plates to full anyway." "Her nose wrinkles like your, Christy." I turned to see Neil behind me. "I see some burnt chicken, your's, lass?" all he got for an answer was a glare. "May I have my bride back now?' "Of course, but make sure she writes me soon." Angie disappeared into the crowd. "Why did you do that?" I asked. "Because, I want my bride back and it's time to waltz." he answered as he led me over to the area for dancing. "Do you think David would like her?"" he asked. "Like who?" "Angie." "Neil MacNeill, are you trying to play matchmaker?" Neil grinned. "Shame on you. David can find his own wife, without your help." "And he already has. Look." I looked to where Neil was pointing. David was talking to Angie. ‘She's engaged." I said. "No ring. And besides you were engaged to." I gave him a weird look. "In your mother's head." I shuttered. "I'd hate to ever meet him." I said "Why?' "Because, he'd be her dream, not mine." "Am I your dream?" I nodded. Neil grinned and leaned to kiss me. "You're sweet, Christy." I smiled. ****************************************************************************** Everything went perfect, until we were about to leave. "Doc. Wait, Lizzie an' Bessie are sick. You gotta come." so Neil helped me down from Charlie and ran off to see what was wrong, Miss Alice followed. I sat on a stump and thought over the day. But something much more exciting was going to be heard "Creed, is this gonna take long, I want more cake?" "Burl, hush up. Ya had your cake. I heard my daddy say Bird's eye isn't at home right now. This is the perfect time to do our savin'." "Creed, I can't go no where." Anywhere my teachers mind silently corrected. " I wearin' my good clothes. Ma'll kill me if I get these things dirty." "Ah, Sam Houston ya ain't no fun. And why does she care about clean clothes. We're supposed to get dirty, how else can we have fun? "You know Mother's, their real weird." "Anyway, we need to do our plan. Does anyone see a problem?" "Creed, just where in tarnation to ya plan to get tha black paint?" Sam Houston asked. "Ah, I haven't figured that out yet. "Couldn't we use blackberry juice?' "No, little Burl, blackberries have purple juice." ‘Then why are they called blackberries?" Burl wanted to know. "I don't know. Guess it's sorta like when ya ma tells you you'll like something for sure and certain, and then ya don't." "Doc's comin'. Run!" The look out called. There was some scrabbling around and then nothing. I was laughing when Neil arrived. "Christy, what did you not eat? Christy?" "I'm sorry. It's just so funny." "Who's funny?' "Creed, Burl and Sam Houston." Neil's face crinkled into a smile, before he became serious. "Christy, what didn't you, your family and Angie not eat?" I thought for a minute. "Possum. Why, what's wrong?" Neil sat down beside me and sighed. "The possum was spoiled, so we have a case of upset stomaches. Looks like I have to stay and help fpr awhile, sorry ,lass." "Neil, how many people did eat the possum?" "I don't know. But we know it no one from Asheville. Their noses probably wrinkled like your's did." "Neil MacNeill! You are the worst tease." "Hey, sis!" George came running over with something white all over his face. "What happened?" I asked. "Well, ah, I sort of fell into bottom layer of the cake." He said sheepishly. "You did WHAT?!" I said. "Now, Christy, I'm sure it was an honest mistake. We still have the top layer." Neil said soothingly. "Sorry sis. It just sort of happened." "It's okay, but maybe you should stay away from the food tables." George nodded. ‘Guess this means I can't hug you right now, huh?" "No, George Matthew Huddleston, you cannot! Now go clean up, Miss Ida should have a rag." I said. After he left, I dissovled into laughter. Neil watched, amused. "You were just barely holding it weren't you?" he asked. I nodded. "When you're a big sister you have a lot of practice." "It's good see thee in such high spirits, after what happened to the cake." I looked up to see Miss Alice, David and my parents standing in front of Neil and I. I stood up and said, "Well, since I lived with George for seven years, I'm sort of used to it, I guess." Daddy cleared his throat, just as he always does before an important speech. "We have decided that you and Neil should go on home, we are quite capable of taking care of things here." "But.." Neil said, "No buts, it's your wedding day. Go on, we can take care of things." David pressed. "Okay, but here's the number of a doctor in El Pano who owes me a favor. Let me know if you need supplies..."Neil said. "Just go!" Mother said, "You sound like your trying to get rid of us." I said as Neil helped me on to Charlie. They all grinned. The ride to Neil's cabin seemed shorter that usual. I help Neil stable Charlie and then we head towards the house. Neil opened the door, and then scooped me up in his arms and carried me over the thershold. "Welcome home, Mrs. MacNeill! You are the love of my life!" He kissed me and knew, I had the love of a wonderful man!! THE END! Look for my next fanfic sometime in August, which I promise will be longer and hopefully better written. If any of you have any suggest on how to improve my writing, that would be very helpful!! Hope you enjoyed it! Love, kellie