Disclaimer: Catherine Marshall's beautiful story of Christy is owned by the
    LeSourd Family.  We are in no way seeking profit or credit for her story.
We are continuing the story of Christy for our own amusement only.  Any
additions in story line and characters were invented by the writer.




Title:  And They'll Know We Are Christians . . .
Author: Melissa 








Part one

Christy had awakened slowly, a growing consciousness of not being alone. As she felt the
presence near her bed, sereneness spread across her pale face.

She looked down and saw Neil, asleep on his stool. His warm fingers still circling her own.
Silly though she felt, tears of sheer satisfaction filled her eyes as she thought about the
sweet moments of the night before. Neil loved her! That was only surpassed in her heart by the
fact that he had finally turned his life over to the Lord. In the brightness of that morning
after, the power of prayer and goodness of God were brought home to her like no other time in
her life. 

She continued to watch him, taking in every line and contour of his handsome face. The
childlike peace that enveloped him smoothed his countenance. Although Christy had no desire to
wake him from what she knew had to be his first night of rest in ages, she could not resist the
urge to touch that face. It was Neil, but more. She could see, even in his sleeping, that this
was who Neil MacNeill had been created to be. Her tentative finger trailed across his brow,
gone were the creases that so often punctuated his expression. 

Neil awoke to her feathery stroke and a broad smile answered Christy's shy look as raised his
head from her bed, seized her finger and kissed it soundly. A nervous giggle was her only
response as he reached over and absently tucked a wisp of hair behind her ear. She trembled at
his touch, she always had, but there was a new thrill in it now, the knowledge that his heart
belonged to her. 

Here he was with Christy, and just hours before his life had taken a turn that would change him
forever. How could he express the pounding in his heart as he grinned down at her? Neil
resisted the urge to scoop her into his arms and swing her around the room, her condition was
still critical, but the excitement he felt needed a release. 

"How aire we feelin' this fine mornin', Miss Huddleston?" he asked in an attempt at
seriousness, but the answering radiance of her face undid him utterly. Before he could think
better of it he leaned in and kissed her full on the mouth. In response she eagerly wrapped her
arms around his neck and held him close. They sat their a moment, sparkling eyes meeting, noses
rubbing, feeling like the world could end at that moment and they could leave it happy for the
love that they had so recently uncovered. 

David and Miss Alice only caught low murmurs as they crossed the threshold of the room, but
seeing their proximity, David hissed to his companion, "See! This is totally unacceptable." 

Part two

Alice Henderson felt somewhat trapped between David's angry protests and the innocent happiness
she saw on the faces of the couple in the room. They had pulled away from each other and were
looking somewhat puzzled at the reverend and her. Suddenly a shyness overcame them both as they
realized their positions and they quickly parted, a maiden blush darkening Christy's cheek,
Neil still vainly attempting to hide the bliss that just seemed to flow from every pore. The
previous night, they had been alone in their exchanges, an openness both felt insecure with in
the light of the morning and disapproving gaze of the reverend. 

Alice quickly determined that this scene would best be played down for the comfort of all,
except perhaps David, and asked cheerfully, "How is our patient doing this morning, Neil?" 

An exasperated sigh was heard from the frustrated reverend as he realized her tactics, and he
replied sarcastically, "Obviously Miss Huddleston is feeling quite fine this morning, if her
energetic reception of the good doctor is any indication." 

The instant hurt that registered on Christy's face at his tone and comment caused David to
rebuke himself for his lack of both tact and control. His dark eyes pleaded for her forgiveness
and the softening of her look assured him it was given. Neil had also stiffened at the remark,
but David noticed that he did not take issue with it as he had anticipated. He sensed a
momentary struggle on the part of the doctor, and then as if he had consciously removed his
hands from it, he let it go. 

Neil's reaction was not unnoticed by the other occupants of the room as Alice smiled in
satisfaction and Christy squeezed his hand in admiration of his first step toward putting away
his anger. The thing that gnawed at the back of her mind was the fact that David had taken the
part of instigator. Who was to shepherd Neil if the leader of the flock seemed to be on the
side of the wolves? 

Neil proved once again his desire for pleasing his new Master when he broke the silence created
by David's rudeness, "Miss Huddleston, Christy," he deliberately changed his address and the
delight in his familiarity shone on her face, "is doin' very well. In fact, I was just aboot to
get her a wee bit of breakfast. Soo, why don't yu sit haire while Alice an' I head to the
kitchen." With a wink at Christy, Neil left her side and pulled Alice from the room with him.
His diplomacy warmed Christy's heart but only seemed to nettle David more. He reluctantly took
Neil's place at her side, fully aware that it was Neil's place. 

Christy put aside the previous few minutes in her enthusiasm to share with David the recent
developments. She eagerly grabbed his hands, her eyes bright with excitement. "Oh, David," she
exclaimed softly, not wishing her words to be heard in the other room. "It is so wonderful. Our
prayers have finally been answered. Neil became a Christian yesterday!" 

Unfortunately David was too far-in his self-pity and the earlier scene did not deter him from
saying lowly, "Our prayers?" 

Once again his manner put a damper on her spirits, "Why, yes, David, our prayers. Mine, Miss
Alice's," then she paused, "and I thought yours." She continued hesitantly, "David, you are our
pastor. Haven't you been praying for the unsaved? For Neil?"

Part three

David's guilty conscience would not allow him to look directly into those blue eyes that he
felt could see his innermost. No, he had not been praying for Neil MacNeill, and he knew he
should have. He should have been able to put his personal feelings aside to fulfill his
calling, the very reason he was at the mission, the minister to the lost. 

An uncomfortable silence hung between Christy and David, the only sounds in the room were those
filtering in from the breakfast preparations. Christy knew she would have to confront the
reason behind David's animosity. She did not want one thing standing in the way of Neil's
happiness-and success in his new life, their new life. 

"David", she started then paused, sending a plea toward heaven for diplomacy, compassion, and
patience. "David, I think you know that Doctor MacNeill, Neil," following suit and using the
familiar address publicly that they had both seemed to revert to in private for many months
now, "Neil and I, well, first let me talk about you and I." This was so much harder than she
had thought, actually she had not given much thought to it at all her recent recollections were
the oh so precious ones of herself and Neil. 

David, for that matter, was not making this any easier, sitting beside her with a pout that
would have made Creed Allen proud. Thinking of him in that light, the sulking schoolboy, as
opposed to minister of the gospel that he was meant to be, gave Christy the direction she
needed. Perhaps at this point, the Lord would allow her to run solely on the diplomacy and
patience as the compassion, even for her, seemed hard won in this case. She did not want to
believe that personal feelings for her had stood in the way of David's responsibility before
God. In truth, she became quite agitated at his attitude and now found no compunction in
telling him so, rationalizing it in her heart as confronting a brother in the Lord. 

"Right now all I can think to say is 'David Grantland, how dare you!'" Christy punctuated her
statement by pounding her little fist into the mattress, her large eyes sparking blue fire.
"How dare you put something so precious as a human soul in the balance because your romance did
not turn out as you had thought it would-or should. You proposed to me, David, and I was
thrilled, honored, but I told you, 'No'. It wouldn't work for us." Her tone softened and she
reached for the limp hand in his lap. "David," she spoke gently, the pressure she placed on his
hand unreturned. "David," she pleaded now, "Please look at me." 

He turned toward her, in his dark eyes fathoms of pain. She swallowed hard and started again
reminding herself that she had done no wrong; she had not misled him in anyway. "David, I want
you to listen to me. Don't just hear my words, but listen to what my heart is telling your
heart." As she had been speaking, she had traced a path between them with her free hand, from
her heart tucked under the pale muslin gown to his own that he felt must be bleeding on his
shirtsleeve. 

"David, when I first came to Cutter Gap, I don't know what I would have done without you. You
seemed to be the one link between the world I knew and one I never knew existed. You taught me
so much. I admit to you and anyone who would listen that I do love you," she paused for a
moment as he comprehended her words but quickly continued so that too much would not be read,
"But, David, my dear friend, I am not in love with you." Then hearing a sound and the door and
turning to see an awkward doctor attempting to balance the laden breakfast tray while
pretending he had not heard this speech, Christy finished with shining eyes, "I am in love with
Neil." 

She felt the hand in her grasp tense, but she still held it tightly. "David, please realize
that it is not -" 

David never heard her final words. He dropped her hand and walked mechanically to the door.
Christy did not try to call him back. What little strength she had, had been drained by her
petition. David would need to find his own peace with God. She sank wearily back into the bed,
her eyes dull with chagrin. She felt a soft touch on her cheek and instantly knew Neil's
presence. Hot drops fell from beneath her closed lids, as he gently gathered her to him and
held her to his heart. She cried the quiet tears of defeat as Neil stroked her hair. 

"I just want everyone to be as happy as we are," she whispered. As early morning that it was,
Christy was exhausted-physically, mentally, and emotionally. 

As always, Neil instantly knew her mood and slowly pulled away from her dropping a soft kiss on
her worried brow. "Ya ha' not had much uv a rest haire, have ya lass?" He lifted her chin and
looked into her eyes still brimming with tears. "The reverend will ha' to figure this oot in
his oon hairt as the cove's little problem solver needs her rest." 

He tenderly but firmly placed her back on her pillow, tucking the quilt about her, and breathed
a prayer of his own for the young preacher. The only negative feelings that Neil harbored
toward David were due to the burden his emotions had become to Christy. He could understand how
she could motivate such passionate hopes, but Neil knew the effects of bitterness, the gnawing
clutching fingers that choked the life out of your very being, and he had no desire to start
his new life fostering any negativity towards the somewhat immature David. Neil sighed to
himself, his heart softening more as he considered the sad course he would face without Christy
by his side. 

Part four

Alice Henderson was clearing away the breakfast things, a smile on her face as she reflected on
the past 24 hours. Her reverie was pleasantly broken by a low call from the door signaling
Fairlight Spencer's arrival. Alice bustled to the door, uncharacteristically eager to have
another to share with. She so wanted the world to know of the answered prayers that had brought
Neil MacNeill to the throne of grace. The other news would just have to be told by the
contented couple at their leisure. 

"'Mornin', Miss Alice," was Fairlight's simple greeting. Her normally fresh face looking
somewhat drawn. Christy's accident had been a drain on her dear friend. She had added her
watches at the sickbed to her myriad of other responsibilities- not that Fairlight would have
had it any other way. 

"And such a splendid morning that it is, Mrs. Spencer," Alice answered cheerfully, quickly
pinching the rosy cheek of Lulu hiding in her mother's skirts. Alice's manner gave Fairlight
pause to think as she quickly grabbed the newcomers hands and drew her towards the cooking
area. "Oh, Mrs. Spencer," Alice continued, joy radiating from her weathered face, "God is so
good." 

In spite of her fatigue, Fairlight could not help but join in Alice's contagious energy.
Chuckling softly, she stood there with her hands on her hips and teased, "Why, Miss Alice, ifin
I didn't know better, I'da thut you been nippin' from Tom McHone's still. Whut is it thet's
makin' you so powerful happy this mornin'?" 

Alice wanted to shout it from the mountains, but being conscious of Neil's sensitivity and not
knowing his wishes, she quieted herself enough to pull Fairlight into the furthest corner of
the tiny room and in a conspiratory whisper, "Neil MacNeill has joined the fold." 

The bright tears that instantly filled Fairlight's eyes and the angelic smile that flooded her
face, told Alice she had not given her confidence vainly. Fairlight had known Neil MacNeill
since they were both "young'uns". His marriage to Margaret had troubled her, and Fairlight had
breathed a secret prayer of merciful relief at her death. Although Alice had not mentioned it,
Fairlight knew the additional meaning of her revelation. Ever since Christy Huddleston had come
to the cove, Fairlight had seen a subtle changing in the bristled doctor and she heartily
approved. She also knew of Christy's feelings for him- not that the proper little school
teacher had ever mentioned a word of it. Fairlight could just sense the invisible bond that
seemed to attach the two souls, even before either of them knew. 

She squeezed Alice's hand as the two women shed a few more tears of joy. Alice nodded her head
toward the open door of Christy's temporary room, and they both sighed in contentment at the
scene playing out before them.

Part five

As Alice and Fairlight had shared together, little Lulu had wandered away from her mother's
side and found herself at the entrance to Christy's room. The bright eyes spied her beloved
teacher and with the innocence characteristic of childhood she entered, unbidden, and made her
way to the bedside. 

Being so wrapped up in each other, Neil and Christy had not noticed the pudgy body that had
been watching them intently and was now suddenly crawling into Neil's lap. The children of the
cove, especially the younger ones, had a deep affection for the doctor who had at one time or
another fought to keep most of them in this world. 

"Weel, wee one," Neil remarked warmly as Lulu settled herself comfortably, "An' how may we help
yu today?" The sparkle in his eyes as he pulled the girl closer to himself made Christy's heart
flip flop. 

"Ah brung this fer teacher," came the eager reply and with that she produced from her pinafore
pocket a small wooden rabbit. It was one from Dan Scott's collection. A chubby hand extended it
to Christy. 

"But, Lulu honey," Christy answered, her voice a little shaky, tears in her eyes at the great
sacrifice, "Mr. Scott gave that to you when you got stung. I know it's one of your favorite
toys." 

The plump cheeks were quickly dimpled as Lulu answered, "But, Miz Christy, Mama says thet ef
you give way sumthin' ya don't want, it ain't really givin'." 

Christy and Neil exchanged glances over the little head. "Out of the mouths of babes." Christy
graciously accepted the rabbit, but as she was reaching to put it on the stand by the bed, a
searing pain ripped through her. She gasped and the wooden figure toppled to the floor. Neil
was instantly over her, gripping her hand as the spasm passed, Lulu still in his lap. Christy's
eyes opened and she smiled at him weakly. 

"Guess I'm not ready for much yet." She squeezed his hand reassuringly. Neil swallowed slowly
and then realizing he still held the child in his lap, a puzzled look on her little face, he
quickly stood and swooped her above his head, sending her into a fit of giggles. "Miss Christy
is needin' a bit of rest, soo why dun't yu an' me see if we kin. . ." and lowered her so her
ear was even with his mouth and shared his secret plan. Lulu nodded excitedly and raced for the
door while Christy arched her brows in question. 

Neil leaned over Christy's bed, the love and concern etched in lines of worry across his face.
Reading his anxious look, she assured him, "I'm just tired, really, I'm ok, don't 'fret'." 

His lips gently brushed her temple as he whispered, "The day I stop 'frettin' about you,
Christy Huddleston, will be the day I die." 

With that he gently pulled the quilt around her chin, mouthed "I love you" and slipped from the
room. 

A few moments after his footsteps died off the porch, a timid head peered around the door.
Christy immediately motioned for Fairlight to come in. Seeing her still wet cheeks, Christy
somehow knew she had been told the blessed news of Neil's salvation, and the friends silently
embraced. 

"Oh Lord," Fairlight began a prayer of thanksgiving, "Thank Ye fer savin' Doc MacNeill. Lord,
we, all of us is beholdin' tu ya not jest fer him, but fer us all, and fer keepin' Miz Christy
here, with us. She's bin sech a friend to me 'n mine. Thank ye Lord." 

Christy continued where Fairlight had ended, "Father, You are so incredible. I cannot imagine
how much You must love us to have blessed us-me- so much." Her voice broke and she could not
continue, but the prayer was taken up again. 

"Almighty God, we are so humbled by Thee." Miss Alice proceeded. "Thou has done many wonders in
this cove and for the people here. We cannot even imagine what Thou has planned for our
tomorrows." 

The women finished their simple prayer, hands linked, and it would seem that heaven had come
down, so celestial the looks on each face. Alice and Fairlight pulled chairs to the edge of the
bed, both with small handiwork, listening intently, and sometimes tearfully, as Christy related
some-not all- of the words of the night before. The look of contentment on her tired face, told
more than any words she could ever imagine the importance of Neil's decision-for them both. 

Soon the two visitors left her to rest with promises that they would talk more later. Even the
eternally optimistic Christy was pleasantly surprised at the change wrought in Alice Henderson
by her former son-in-law's conversion. Her countenance had softened. It may have been that
Alice was finally able to see some benefit from Margaret's marriage by following the winding
chain of events that had brought herself, Neil MacNeill and Christy Huddleston to Cutter Gap in
God's sovereign timing. 

After her guests left Christy could not deny her fatigue, and although she wanted nothing more
than to concentrate on the earlier picture of Neil beside her, a child-perhaps one day their
own-on his knee, she soon succumbed to the healing power of sleep and did not stir until
several hours later to excited chattering outside the cabin. 

The unmistakable voices of children-her children- outside the cabin drew Christy from her
slumber with a smile. She was about to chance the wrath of her beloved doctor by slipping to
the window, but just as her legs slid over the bed, she heard someone clearing their throat
loudly. She looked over into merry eyes and realized she had been caught. 

"Excuse me, miss, but might I be askin' whet ya think yur doin'?" Neil stood in the doorway, a
boyish grin belying the sternness he was attempting. 

Knowing she had been found out Christy attempted to charm her way out of the scolding she was
about to receive. Putting on her biggest smile and fluttering her eyelashes she cooed, "I was
hoping to catch a glimpse of the man who has captured my heart returning to me after a long day
of . . " The sentence hung momentarily as she searched for a dramatic occupation for her
knight, then noticing he was hiding something behind him, "picking flowers for his beloved?"
The inflection in her voice indicating a question, the glow in her eyes adoration. 

For some reason, the reality of his present situation caught up with him and he suddenly became
tongue-tied. Neil stepped somewhat sheepishly into the room, the fragrance of the bouquet he
carried proceeding him. 

"I, uh, weel, the children, an' yu waire resting, an' it's good weather. They brought tha'
raccoon along an' we waire up late last night an' Alice an' Fairlight waire here, an' you waire
sleepin', an' this blue reminded me of your eye, eyes-uh both of them." His avalanche of words
landing soundly at her feet, the flowers extended in front of him as if a shield. Christy did
her best to suppress her giggles, but the sight of Neil standing stammering the toe of his boot
digging into the plank floor, hiding behind those flowers did her in. 

Christy felt so bad, but could not contain herself, and the more she tried, the harder she
laughed, until the tears streamed, and oh wait, until it hurt. That put an abrupt end to her
near hysteria. She was holding her side and breathing hard as she approached Neil, who by now
was a most cherry shade of red. She took the flowers still held stiffly in his hand and laid
them on a chair. Neil was about to retreat from what he thought to be her mockery when she
turned and slipped her arms around him. At once, his heart melted and he returned her embrace. 

"That, my dear, is the first time I have heard you at a loss for words," she informed him. She
looked up and for the suddenly realized that he had not been laughing with her. 

Instantly contrite, she said, "Oh, Neil, I am so sorry. The flowers are absolutely beautiful
and the fact that you and the children picked them for me is so precious, but Neil, I couldn't
help it. Maybe it's just all the tension that has been building, being in bed for so long, the
situation with David," her eyes clouded momentarily, then sparkled again. "I can't tell you
what it was but when you assured me you were thinking of my eyes 'both of them' I couldn't help
it!" She stood on her tip toes and planted a quick kiss on the end of his nose. "Am I
forgiven?" 

"As ef yu had to ask?" he answered. "Du yu really think that thes wee peck is goin' to satisfy
me, tho'?" He sported a wicked grin and before she knew it, he was kissing her deeply. 

Part six

Christy and Neil parted slowly. So much had happened in the last day, had it been just one day?
He gently guided back to her bed and she reluctantly got in. 

"Ah believe tha' we need tu check tha' wound, Miss Huddleston." Once again his mock serious
tone was belied by the twinkle in his eyes, his gentle fingers examining her wound as he spoke.
Then he stopped suddenly. Until this point, both had felt comfortable in the doctor-patient
relationship, but as recent events had definitely increased their connection, the considerate
doctor stopped his check up and went to the door. 

"Alice." 

Alice Henderson bustled into the room, wiping her wet hands on a towel, smile on her face,
another victim of the contagious twinkling. "Doctor?" 

Neil blushed slightly, searching for the proper words. "I believe tha', uh, perhaps, yu could
continue thu examination. Ah, uh think tha' woud be best." 

He quickly left the room as Alice and Christy exchanged glances. 

"Miss Huddleston," Alice started after she noted that the incision was healing properly, "I
cannot tell thee how my heart warms to see the effect thou, and the Almighty, has had on our
doctor here. While thee was sleeping today, he came to me and asked for appropriate Scriptures
that you could study together. He stated that as the Lord has given him a second chance at
life, and love, he intends to make the absolute best of it." 

Tears shone once again in Christy's eyes as she clutched Alice's hand. She had cried more
tears, of more varied emotion, in the past few days-if she really thought, since she came to
Cutter Gap, than she had to that point in her life. This place, these people had connections to
such strong emotions, whether it be love or hate, joy or anger, peace or bitterness. The
difference here was like that between seeing a lovely picture of a mountain and then going and
actually climbing the real thing, experiencing the wind in your face, the rocks beneath your
feet, and the sweet scent of green in the air. 

After supper that evening, there was a knock on Christy's door. Neil brought a lamp and his
mother's well worn Bible to her bedside with a heart so grateful for his blessings that their
prayers lasted well into the night. They both had no desire but to continue the sweet communion
with each other and their Saviour, but Neil noticed the weary look on her face and reluctantly
said goodnight with a tender kiss on her fingertips. 

But it was not goodnight for Neil, as he sat up for many more hours, searching the Scriptures,
his heart hungry for knowledge of the life he had so recently embarked on. He knew that it was
not going to be a simple road, but the sleep that finally claimed him as he sat at his desk was
that of a contented spirit and in spite of is late hours, he awoke refreshed and eager not long
later. He quietly checked on Christy and finding her still asleep went about the plans that had
been initiated yesterday. 

David had been right. It was time for Christy to return to the mission. Neil had to admit that
he was not happy about the prospect. It wasn't a matter of her health, he believed she could
handle the trip. She did not need the round the clock care she had at first, and he had to
admit it was time for her to go. It was just too much for him to see her there everyday. As
Neil walked out onto the porch he vowed, he would bring her into his home and she would not
have to leave again. 

The children began arriving soon after, their little arms laden with the boughs and blossoms
they had picked the day before. The mission wagon sat in the doctor's yard and as quietly as
possible for the animated group, they began their task. 

By the time Neil emerged from the cabin again some time later with a well- bundled Christy held
tightly to his chest, the children's work was done. At first all Christy saw was the beautiful
faces of her children standing together in the sun dappled grass, but as their group parted,
she was speechless. They had lovingly draped the old wagon with the bluest of laurels and
whitest of honeysuckles. There was columbine woven through the spokes of the wheels and the
splintered bed was lined with fragrant cedar. Neil gave them an all-encompassing wink as
Christy let out a low, "Ohhh". 

The magic of the moment stilled the fidgeting youngsters as Neil made his way down the porch
stairs and through the little throng to Christy's waiting chariot. He had told her earlier over
a light breakfast that she would be returning to the mission that morning. Although happy for
the sign of her increasing health, she was secretly disappointed that her constant contact with
Neil would be over. Yes, there would be walks and talks, rides and picnics, but nothing could
surpass the thrill of waking up in the morning to the sound of his voice. 

The reverie was suddenly broken as Sam Houston belted out, "Well, whatcha think 'bout that,
teacher?" 

Alice and Fairlight had brought quilts to cover the cedar and as Christy was tucked securely
in, she answered, "Sam Houston, it is the most beautiful thing I have ever seen!" 

"Even bettern them owtomobile's in Asheville?" Little Burl asked incredulously. 

Christy flashed him a brilliant smile, "There is absolutely no comparison." 

As the children gathered around the wagon, Christy noticed others coming too. Opal and Tom
McHone, Jeb Spencer, Miss Hattie led by Dan Scott and many other of the cove's residents made
their way into the little clearing where the wagon stood. 

At Christy's questioning glance, David, who had come quietly in from behind the cabin, stated,
"The folks here just wanted to let you know how pleased we all are that you are feeling
better-and coming home." 

Although there was a smile on his lips, it did not reach to his eyes, and Christy knew there
was still a struggle in his heart. But for the sake of those who had so graciously gathered,
she put those thoughts aside and beamed her best smile fashioned by the desire to embrace the
entire company including Scalawag who at that moment was reeking havoc on the flowers tied to
Timothy's harness causing the usually docile mule to become a little skittish. David lifted
himself into the box, settled the mule and the merry procession started toward the mission. It
had somewhat of a carnival atmosphere, the children running to and fro, the adults chatting,
groups forming and dispersing, moving in a gentle tide across the meadow. 

Neil, for purely professional reasons, stuck close to the back of the wagon. He watched as
Mountie O'Teale tried her best to keep up with the other children who raced behind the plodding
cart, but her little legs wouldn't go that fast. He noticed the glint of a tear, and with one
motion picked her up and deposited her gently beside Christy. Her large eyes looking up at him
in awe. 

"Noe, little one, is tha' better?" 

Mountie nodded her head in silence as she realized the position of honor that had been accorded
her. Christy smiled her thanks to Neil and then began to catch up with Mountie on her progress
with Fairlight and their reading. Fairlight had shared with Christy that since the accident,
she and Mountie had been reading together as their teacher had been unavailable. The fact that
Fairlight was passing on her knowledge warmed Christy's heart to the core. Not that it
surprised her, Fairlight was a wonder. 

As the procession neared the mission, it began to slowly disperse. There had been talk of a
homecoming dinner, but it was postponed to a later date for fear of taxing Christy's still
fragile stamina. Christy did promise the children that with permission from the doctor, she
would be at services that Sunday. 

As the wagon crested the hill where the mission was nestled, David and Alice, both sitting in
the wagon box, noticed a strange horse tethered in front of the building. As they got closer,
they could see a tall figure lounging on the porch, long legs encased in expensive leather
riding boots propped on the railing, a felt hat pulled down over his eyes. Being too occupied
in each other, the occupants of the rear of the wagon, had not yet noticed the newcomer. Upon
hearing the approach of the wagon, the stranger unfolded himself from his chair and with a
fluid grace crossed the porch and stood at the top of the stairs. 

Neither David nor Alice knew this man who had made himself comfortably at home in their
absence. 

"Good morning, friend," Alice greeted, hoping in truth that he was a friend. "Might I ask who
we have the privilege of welcoming to our humble mission and how we may assist thee?" 

The young man, hat still in hand, bowed formally as he introduced himself, "My name is Jared
Monroe. I am looking for Miss Christy Huddleston, my fiancée."

Part seven

"Lordy, Lordy," coming from Ruby Mae was the only response for a moment, but at the sound of a
familiar voice speaking her name, Christy turned toward the porch, and then seeing who stood
there, fought the urge to pull the quilt over her head and hide. Of all the people to find
camped out on the mission steps, never in a million lifetimes had she ever expected to see
Jared Monroe. She felt Neil instantly stiffen at her side and give her a searching look with
terrified eyes. She quickly squeezed his hand, shook her head, and whispered, "I'll explain
later." 

The wobbly smile he returned did not reassure her, but she had bigger worries as she felt
herself being lifted away from Neil over the edge of the box. Before the doctor could protest,
the proclaimed fiancé had swept Christy into his arms and was smiling down at her. 

Neil watched as if seeing something in a parallel dimension to him, like he could see what was
happening, but could not interact. A memory suddenly pulled itself from the recesses of his
mind. Christy had just come to Cutter Gap . . .

****************

He was watching Christy stalk away from him, her fist balled at her sides in anger. They were
in the middle of yet another heated discussion. If memory served him correctly it had been
following the reverend's tirade against moonshine. Neil had been attempting to make the
stubborn Miss Huddleston understand that many of the people of the cove depended on the revenue
to feed their families, but his words had come out badly and instead he had infuriated her all
the more. Not a difficult task, the doctor mused, as he watched the sparks in her blue eyes. 

Her seeming self-righteousness, though, blotted out any thought he gave to her beauty as he
yelled after her, "Wha' did yu cum haire Miss Huddleston? Du yu reely thenk tha' yur big city
ways an' manners aire gointa help the people haire feed thur cheeldren? Eever since yuv come
all yuv tried to du es change the lot of us. Well, let me tell yu sumthin', gerl, the people in
this cove ha' been haire a lung time before yu came an' they'll be haire a lung time afta! So
wha' dun't yu just go on back tu Asheville an' yur tea parties an' socials and courters," and
then he added with a snort, "unless yu came haire because the couldn't handle yur meddlin' ways
aither. Oh, now pairhaps tha' is the answer. Did yu cum haire ta soothe yur aching hairt afta
yu broke a betrothal?" 

As Neil spoke he had steadily walked toward the small figure standing at the other end of the
mission porch, and caught up in his tirade he had grasped her shoulders and spun her around to
face him. The tears pooling in her deep eyes took him totally by surprise, but not as much as
her quiet answer, "Actually doctor, if you must know, he broke off the engagement. He did not
approve of my coming to Cutter Gap." 

And with head held high, Christy left the stunned doctor gaping on the porch. Neil had thought
of that conversation after and was puzzled. If Christy was engaged, why did she plan to teach
in the cove? And, knowing her independent ways, how had she gotten involved with a man who
seemed so against what she purposed was right? If he had broken it off, would she be willing to
go back if he changed his mind? But then Neil had to admit as his feelings for her grew as did
the Reverend Grantland's, he became more concerned with the immediate competition than some
vague former love, if he was that.

************

So from then until now, Neil had absolutely forgotten any mention of the broken engagement.
From the shocked looks on the faces of David and Alice, it also appeared that Neil had been the
only it had been mentioned to. 

"Put me down!" Christy told the gallant man firmly as he pulled her to him and started for the
house. 

Ignoring her, Jared began solicitously, "As soon as I heard of your accident, I rushed straight
here. Well, how are. ." 

The dandy's last words were cut off as Neil finally regained himself and bounded to his side.
Every fiber crying out to box the ears of the young lout, but reminding himself with a prayer
that he must control his temper-at least until he heard the whole story. 

"Mr. Monru, is it? MacNeill. Ah am Miss Huddleston's peersonal physician, an' Ah must protest
a' yur handling of her. She has ha' a teerible strain an' we must be veery keerful." With those
words he reached out his arms as if he expected the man to transfer Christy to his care. 

Jared Monroe quickly surveyed the man standing before him and presented a manner that stated
very clearly he had no intention of relinquishing his hold on Christy. There had been something
in the looks exchanged between this backwoods doctor and her that made him uneasy. The two men
stood there in the doorway, facing off, Christy between them in Jared's hold, her arms folded
across her chest, her small feet poking out from under the quilt doing an agitated swing, a
look of exasperation on her face. 

With a smug chuckle, Jared replied, "I appreciate the thought my good man, but Chris and I have
some catching up to do, don't we love? But if you'd like to assist, my bag is by that chair." 

Chris? Neil's face turned an odd shade of purple as the vein in his temple began to throb.
Christy once again, however vainly, entreated, "Jared, please, either put me down or give me to
someone," reaching for Neil, "who will. I am not a rag doll." 

Jared smiled at the angry young woman in his arms. At one time that smile had made Christy's,
and every other girl in Asheville's, heart melt, but soon enough she realized it only masked a
haughty and condescending demeanor. More than anything right now she wanted to get off this
porch in view of the entire cove and explain this insanity to Neil who, bless his heart, had
been very much in control until this point. She also wanted to wipe that smug grin off David's
face as he appeared to be enjoying the tension. 

David had been watching this exchange with not a little amusement, that is until Alice jabbed
him in the ribs, and he sprang from the wagon box to assist her down. 

Alice finally spoke the words that got everyone into the mission to sort it all out. Those
words being, "Let's go into the mission and sort this all out." 

She managed to squeeze between Mr. Monroe and the doctor, both locked in a fierce gaze, open
the door, and indicate them to come in. Neil, with mock civility, motioned for the guest to
enter first and then followed him so closely he scuffed the heel of Jared's costly boots with
the well worn toes of his own. When the threesome-Jared, Neil and Christy-had entered Alice
moved back to the door and addressed David and Ruby Mae, who were close behind. 

To Ruby Mae-"I do believe that we will have an extra guest for dinner." Then with a gulp,
"Perhaps thee will be needing to um, acquire more uh, possum." 

The desire to show a true Asheville gentleman how possum was cooked "proper", was enough to
distract the resident cook from the present parlay. 

To David-"I'm sure thee will see to unhitching the wagon and tending the mule," she stated with
a innocent smile, then under her breath so that only the preacher could hear, "Thee are
enjoying this entirely too much, reverend." 

Then returning to her full voice with a glint in her eye, "And be sure to fetch Mr. Monroe's
bag. It is by that chair" 

After dispatching those two, Alice very deliberately closed the door on the open-mouthed
preacher, took a moment to smooth her hair, and turned to the occupants of the foyer. 

"If you would be so kind as to direct me to your room, Chris, I will see you safely there,"
Jared stated to her sweetly. 

"Mr. Monroe, before you take one further step in this house- and you can put me in the parlor,
not my room,-I do believe that you must admit to the mistruth you spoke a moment ago." Her
stern look was not missed by any. 

"Yes, my dear, I must confess," he paused for a moment with a very humbled look on his face as
Christy shot Neil a this-will-explain-it-all glance, "I did not leave directly upon hearing of
your misfortune. Actually it was after the yearly rout at Pennington. Couldn't miss that you
know. It's quite an institution." He finished with a teasing smile. 

Christy had had more than enough of his coquetry. She was tired and that pain had started in
her side again, but it did nothing to match the look of pain in Neil's eyes. She had worked so
hard to convince him of her love and now in a matter of minutes she had seen the old doubts
creep back in the form of furrowed lines on his brow and tense muscles in his jaw. 

"That is enough, Jared Michael Monroe! You put me down in that chair this instant! You are not
my fiancé and I want to know what in the world you are doing here!" 

Jared unwillingly settled her in the indicated chair and pulling the ottoman to her feet,
established himself there. Alice had unobtrusively made her way to Neil's side and was
attempting to lead the fuming doctor from the room, but seeing her intention Christy stopped
her. 

"Please forgive my lack of manners. Miss Alice Henderson, Doctor Neil MacNeill, this is Jared
Monroe, a childhood friend of my family from Asheville." Mr. Monroe rose quickly, repeated his
stiff bow of earlier to Miss Alice, and offered his hand to Neil, who hesitated for a moment,
then seeing the imploring look in Christy's eye, reluctantly complied. 

Jared, hearing and understanding the emphasis of Christy's words chided her, "Now, sweetheart,
I'm sure there is no need for secrecy around your new friends. I am sure that Miss Henderson
and the good old doctor will be happy to share our joy." 

And with that he leaned down to kiss her cheek, but before his lips reached her, she had
grabbed his face between her hands, and looking directly in the eyes inches from her won she
spoke through clenched teeth. 

"Jared, I have just had the best two days of my life, preceded by the worst week of my life. I
do not have the energy or desire to play your little game. Our engagement, foolishness that it
was, was broken well over a year ago and I have not heard one word from you since then-not that
I am complaining. I did not request you to come here and if you insist on your present course,
I must ask you to leave. Am I clear?" 

Finally realizing her words and actions, Christy blushed deeply and released him. Jared only
smiled in what he thought was an understanding way. 

"Obviously, these mountains, and their people, have had their affect on you. I've always loved
that feisty nature, but dear," he continued in a lower tone, "I'm not sure such antics would be
accepted in an Asheville parlor. Come let us not quarrel. I promise to answer all your
questions as soon as we have a private moment." 

"I am forever grateful that I am not in an Asheville parlor, and could live contented until one
hundred and one should I never see one again. As for my questions, you will answer them here. I
have nothing to hide and no desire to share a private moment with you." 

Neil and Alice were both wide-eyed in astonishment. If only Christy's response had been heard,
her directness would have been just plain rude, but considering the provocation, it was
admirable that she been so kind. 

After a moments pause while the room calmed itself, Christy, emotions in check, began once
again to inquire as to Mr. Monroe's presence in Cutter Gap, deciding direct questions the best.

Christy leaned back into the chair, her eyes drooped wearily, chin resting in her hand, as she
rephrased the questions she had already asked multiple times. "So, Jared, how did you hear of
the accident that so fatefully brought you to my door?" 

If Jared knew anything it was timing, especially where Christy was concerned, so he decided to
placate her with the answers she so desired. "There was a telegram. It was sent to the church
after the uh, shooting." 

Christy's gaze went directly to Miss Alice. 

"We knew that thy parents were abroad, Europe, but we felt that someone, at least thy church
should know," then with a withering look directed straight at the uninvited guest, "so that
they could remember thee in their prayers." 

"Yes, well, uh, someone had to be sure that you were getting the proper attention, medical and
otherwise. Of course that fell naturally to me," this was not going as Jared had invisioned,
"and you'll be, uh, happy to know that Leonard Bigsby will be on the next train from
Asheville." Ignoring the wild look in Christy's eyes, he blundered ahead. "You remember Bigs,
well, he's just finished his medical residency and is more than willing to trek out here to
check on you, as a personal favor of course." 

Christy looked frantically at Neil who she instinctively knew had reached the end of his
endurance and resorted to the tone she used with the boys at school when they had embarked on
yet another prank. It was never disobeyed. "Jared Monroe, you get on that telephone this
instant. Call whomever you must, but you stop him from coming. The attention that I have
received, 'medical and otherwise', has far surpassed anything that you could ever render. Dr.
MacNeill has more experience and education and, and everything than Leonard Bigsby, who if I
remember correctly used to pull the legs off frogs as a child." 

Seeing that he made no move, Christy set her face like flint. "Fine. I'll do it myself." With
much effort she pushed herself up from the chair. She had made it three steps away from the
chair, and Jared, that much closer to the telephone, and Neil, when the strain of the interview
became too much. 

Christy felt the darkness close in, but before it enveloped her totally one name sprang to her
lips. "Neil!" Her eyes locked with his for a moment. Her arms tried to reach for him, but she
couldn't. 

The next instant, Christy knew Neil had caught her, taking her up to her room. 

It was all Alice and David, who has recently returned from the barn, could do to prevent the
young man from bounding up the stairs after Neil. 

"Mr. Monroe," Alice spoke, "I believe thee has a telephone call to make." And she firmly led
the him from the bottom of the stairs where is eyes were glued on Christy's closed door. 

Attempting his charms on the good woman he started, "Miss Henderson, I am sure that you can see
it from my point of view. Hearing that my fiancée was injured in a terrible accident all the
way back in these hills. Not knowing what sort of care she would be given. Obviously, I took
the most natural course." He smiled down with what he thought his most endearing grin, but was
only rewarded by a stern glare from the missionary. 

"Mr. Monroe, I am sure that Miss Huddleston stated you were not currently engaged and although
'back in these hills', she is receiving more uh, attentive medical care than she would anywhere
else." 

With that she handed him the telephone receiver and dialed the station in El Pano for him.
"Just leave a message with Edgar, the station master. He will be sure to inform you friend of
the change in plans." 

Meanwhile, upstairs, Neil was carefully laying Christy on her own bed. As he drew back from
her, she gripped his arms, holding him. "Neil, I-" Christy started, her wide eyes fearful that
his doubts would lead him from her, but she was gently stopped by his finger on her lips. 

He then replaced his finger with his own lips, kissing her tenderly. After a lingering moment,
he broke the contact, but stayed close to her, a twinkle in his eye. "If tha' is how yu welcome
fiances, ex or otherwise, pairhaps we should na allow aire relationship to go tha' far." 

Christy wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled him to her again, tears of relief shining
in her eyes. "Oh, Neil. I am so sorry about all this. Please let me explain. I-" 

He stopped her again with another kiss, a little more intense and when it finally ended Christy
was breathless. 

"Na tonight, sweet." His finger tracing the trail of her tears. "Yu rest tunight. We'll talk of
is in the mornin'." 

"No, Neil, please," she protested, her hands holding his tightly, "There is no way I could rest
without having you understand all this." 

Seeing the resolve in her eyes, he relented, secretly desirous of understanding the
relationship that existed or had existed between Christy and the young whelp below. 

Due to her own fatigue and the strain she was seeing on Neil's face, Christy did her best to
keep the tale brief. She told of the long history between the Huddleston and Monroe families,
their great-grandfathers had been business partners and the families had been close for
generations. She explained how she and Jared had shared a crib in the church and had been
together ever since. It had been the deepest desire of their parents, especially Mrs. Monroe,
for the two to wed. And, Christy had to admit, somewhat ashamedly, that the thought of being
Mrs. Jared Monroe had tickled her fancy as a budding woman. She had thought of the social
circles that would clamor to accept the fashionable couple. She had even gone so far as promise
herself to Jared before he left for the university. But then, after he had gone, when she had
time to herself, she began to doubt. What was there really in the relationship? Jared was
looking for a mantle piece ornament, not the fiery independent woman that Christy had become.
And Christy, she wanted, needed, more from a relationship than being the quite smiling half of
a matched set. 

After she had been awoken to the need for teachers at Cutter Gap, she had determined in her
mind that was where she was meant to be, where God meant her to be. She had made her decision,
informed her parents, even purchased her ticket, before she approached Jared. She had rehearsed
the speech in her mind many times, even practicing it in front of her vanity mirror. She had
planned to lay it all before him very logically, her plans to teach, her desire to go to Cutter
Gap, and finally explain to him that marriage- to him- was not possible. 

Christy had only gotten as far as telling him about her plans regarding Cutter Gap when he
protested her decision violently. "No intended of his would be cavorting around in the
wilderness with a pack of uneducated heathen" being his precise words. Christy was saved the
annoyance of having to back out when he gave her an ultimatum. She would have to choose, Cutter
Gap or him. 

As Christy continued there was a wistful look in her eyes, "In my mind there was no choice, and
with mercy I allowed the spurned 'gentleman' to proponder the story that he had initiated the
break. I left on the train the very next day and it was rumored about town that I was seeking
solitude to ease my broken heart. Those who mattered knew the truth, and it did not matter one
way or the other what "everyone else" thought. The only regret I had, the reason there were
tears in my eyes that day I told you, was the lonliness, not from Jared specifically, but
missing that feeling of being part of a something. But," she looked at Neil shyly, "I don't
miss that anymore." 

Although Neil could see the pure devotion in her eyes, he could not help but ask lowly, "An' if
he changed his mind, an' wanted yu back?"

Part eight

"Neil McNeill!" she exclaimed at his question, a pained expression on her face, "How can you
think I would ever-" 

He cut her short with his upraised hand. "Ah know yu protest noe, love, but yu must consider
tha future." He leaned down and kissed her on the forehead. "We'll talk aboot it later, after
yuv ha' a chance tu rest, an' thenk." He deliberately disentangled himself from her grasp and
started for the door. As much as Neil wanted to leave this decision to Christy, and God, he did
need one thing, "Christy, may Ah hav yu peermission to speak with Mr. Monru regarding his
intentions." 

Her heart aching at his distance, Christy smiled in spite of herself. She would love to be a
fly on the wall for an interview between Jared and Neil. Not trusting herself to speak, she
nodded her consent. Then he was gone. 

Christy was inwardly delighted that Neil was taking her part with Jared. She did not think she
had the stamina to convince him of her level of interest- none. Her front running concern was
Neil's words about the future. Would he think he was doing her a favor by taking Jared's side?
Remembering the smoldering look in his eyes before he exited, she doubted it, but with the
highland doctor, anything was possible. Christy clutched the coverlet with cold fingers. She
was not worried about an encounter between the two men. Jared was a mere child, while Neil was
a man, a newly saved man, who could be easily provoked where she was concerned. OK. She was
worried. Christy knew that Neil would speak with Jared that day. This was not something that he
would allow to simmer for too long. In spite of her fatigue, Christy slid from her bed and
kneeled there beside it. Just knowing that she could put this tangled mess at the feet of Jesus
decimated the burden. 

Neil paused for a moment before descending the stairs. "Lord, Yu kno' tha' Ah am new to all
thes. Please help me talk to tha' fellow downstairs wethout loosin' me temper." He raised his
eyes toward heaven with a look of thanks for the instant calm that filled him, but before going
down he added, "An' Lord, please help me not tu doubt Christy's love. Ah kno' in ma heert when
Ah look at her tha' she feels for me as Ah do for her, but ma head is causing me to doubt. Ah
doon't want to do tha' anymoor." 

And with that, Neil went to have a little chat with Mr. Jared Monroe. He found Alice and David
waiting, in what they thought to be a casual manner, on the landing. Seeing their looks of
concern, he reassured them, "She'll be fine after a few hours rest. Tha' little scene took
quite a bit oot of her. Ah'll check back on her this afternoon." Then scanning the room for the
guest, Neil added, "Whar is the honorable Mr. Monru, anyway?" 

"Now, Neil," Alice started. 

The reverend, looking on with the same wicked grin as earlier, answered simultaneously, "On the
porch." 

Neil put his hands on Alice's shoulder, a merry twinkle in his eye, and replied in a soothing
voice, "Noe, Alice, doon't yu be worrying aboot me," and started for the porch with long
strides. 

With a flustered look on her face, she called after him, "It is not thee that I am worried
about." 

Neil found Jared on the porch, cornered by Ruby Mae, possum in hand. He stopped for a moment,
listening to her expound on her quarry. 

"Us'lly ya don't find 'em durin' the daylight, but I've got me a secret spot whar I jest know
thar gonna be," she smiled proudly, brandishing the dead prize at the gentleman attempting to
politely back away from the swinging carcass. "Thet's how I kin feed the mission folk possum
fer every meal and still be able ta be in 'fore dark. Wanna see whar I git 'em from." 

Neil realized he had better rescue Jared now, or he would not have his chance at him so he
kindly interrupted, "Ruby Mae, if we sho' Mr. Monru all the uh, fine sights of the cove today,
he woold have tu cut his visit weth us short. We wooldn't want tha', noe woold we?" 

The look of disappointment was evident in the young girl's eyes, but she had no intention of
questioning the doctor, so she reluctantly backed away, her possum hanging dejectedly at her
side. But as she made no move to excuse herself, Neil prodded, "If tha' tempting bit o' meat is
goin' tu be ready for our guest's dinner, doon't yu thenk yu should be headin' weth it to the
kitchen?" 

Jared threw the doctor a grateful smile as Ruby Mae with an exclamation of, "Lordy, Lordy!"
scampered off the porch towards the direction of the kitchen. 

"Thank you, doctor," Jared offered, wiping his brow with a silken handkerchief, "Perhaps not
everyone is as uncivilized as I had originally perceived." 

Gritting his teeth momentarily, Neil thought, "Uncivilized? When Ah am feenished with yu, yu'll
be wishin' Ah had left yu to Ruby Mae an' haire possum!" Then with another prayer for patience
he plastered a smile on his face and spoke in a calm voice, "Ah know yu must be concerned for
Miss Huddleston. She is resting comfortably." 

"Chris? She's always been pretty resilient. I remember once, when we were much younger, she
took a tumble down our attic stairs. Just got up and kept on going." Jared's offhand reply
caused Neil's fists to involuntarily clench at his side. He fought to keep his voice level. 

"Mr. Munru, Miss Huddleston's accident was noot a mere 'tumble doon the attic stairs'. She was
shot, weth a gun, at close range. We aire very fortunate tha' she is still alive." 

"Yes, Doctor, MacNeill, was it? Yes, I am planning on discussing that with the reverend and
that missionary woman. A woman of Chris' standing should not be around this sort of . . " his
arms flew out as he searched for a word to describe his impression of Cutter Gap, "lifestyle.
Guns and moonshine and," remembering Ruby Mae with a shudder, "dead animals. She should be in a
drawing room in Asheville surrounded by all the beautiful things that she is accustomed to. It
would be one thing if she wanted to send money to help with the work here, but, as I tried to
convince her when she came up with this scheme, there is no reason for her to be here. But
that's just like Chris, you know, always trying to solve the world's problems. Getting involved
with things, and people, that are far below her station." 

"Like yu?" Neil muttered under his breath, his face white with anger. 

Jared continued with not so much as a glance in his direction, "That is why I decided to come
here finally. She will be coming home with me. A decision I am sure her parents would support
wholeheartedly, and I feel falls to me to make in their absence. Enough is enough and it is
time for her to come home and take her proper place in society, as my wife." 

Neil, in all of his experiences, could not remember ever meeting someone as arrogant as Jared
Monroe. It was the biggest struggle of his new life to prevent himself from throttling the
wretch. Neil took a moment to calm himself before he spoke, choosing his words with what he
hoped was care. 

"Mr. Monru, ferst, Ah woold like to say tha' Christy Huddleston is the finest woman Ah have
eever knoown. Haire love for the cheeldren is a true gift from God. Haire pairents hav' been
haire an seen tha' an' Ah believe they support haire decision. She has made sech an impact on
the people of thes cove, an' myself." 

"And I am grateful for the fatherly interest you have taken in her," Jared interrupted, his
eyes narrowing somewhat, "It is quite comforting to know that in my absence there has been an
older guardian-type person to protect my interests. If I had known about the eligible young
preacher stationed here, I would never have allowed her to come. Oh, I wanted to mention, you
will be thoroughly compensated for your services on my fiancee's behalf." 

Jared, knowing full well the impact of his words, watched Neil closely. He knew there was more
than a paternal relationship between the doctor and Christy, but he wanted to play this game
out and see where it would go. 

David had been listening unashamedly, reasoning he needed to be on hand should trouble erupt.
He had wagered it would take Neil about five minutes before he decided to make short work of
the upstart, but much to David's surprise the doctor was very much in control of his
emotions-at least outwardly. David had to admit, if only to himself, that there had been a
drastic change in Neil MacNeill is the few short days since he kneeled in prayer with Alice on
the cabin porch. 

Neil was doing an admirable job of keeping a calm exterior, but his gut was in turmoil. He was
fighting so hard against the desire to react violently to Christy's would be lover, that his
head pounded. Jared could see the conflict in the eyes of the doctor and decided that he would
call his hand and suffer the consequences, if need be. He had not been the sparring champion
his senior year for naught. Approaching Neil, he put his hand on the doctor's shoulder and
spoke in a confidential manner. 

"I know that you harbor feelings for my fiancee, doctor. I am sure that it is quite common,
especially in an environment such as this, for older men to become, shall we say, enamored with
much younger women. I am sure, too, that given the proximity of your work with Chris, there is
the remote possibility that she could imagine feelings for you as well. But as gentlemen here,
let us be honest with each other. You could never give her what she is wants, what she is
accustomed to, here in these God-forsaken hills. Do you truly think that once she is back in
her element, she will remember you as more than a fond dalliance?" 

Part nine

Jared's words struck Neil flat in the chest with sledgehammer force. He stood there for a
moment, stunned. Neil had no worry about the possibility of a relationship between Christy and
the thoroughly odious man before him, but the picture Jared had painted haunted Neil's heart.
His anger at Jared's audacity was dwarfed by his sudden terror that he could be right. Christy
deserved so much, so much more than the life afforded her in Cutter Gap. 

Neil closed his eyes, the prayers that had been on his lips since this meeting started had
worked so far, "Please God," he whispered, "Doon't fail me noe." Then after a thoughtful pause,
"Or rather, doon't let me fail Yu." 

David, against his inclinations, had been rooting for Neil since the exchange started. Lesser
of two evils is what he told himself. But again David was humbled by the righteous course the
Neil had walked, a very tightrope of a course. 

Jared waited, arms folded smugly across his immaculately tailored coat, waiting for a response
from the momentarily speechless doctor. He had to give the man credit. He had expected, and
evenly secretly wished, the mountain doctor to have resorted to violence by this point. 

"Perhaps his feelings for her are not as strong as I had bargained," he mused to himself. If he
had been outright asked, Jared could not have given a reason for his desire to antagonize this
man. He had never questioned the dissolving of his engagement, had never regretted it, even
now. The timing of Christy's accident had very conveniently coincided with a bit of trouble he
was having at a local gaming house, and a brief absence, he hoped, was all it needed to blow
over. And if that absence could be viewed as a mission of chivalry all the better. More than a
few of the blue haired matriarchs of their fashionable Asheville congregation, believing
Jared's, or rather Jared's mother's, version of the broken engagement thought the sacrifice on
the part of the young paragon extraordinary. They certainly planned to tell William and Julia
Huddleston on their return how unfortunate their daughter was to have been spurned by a man of
such graces. 

But the reason for Jared's abuse of Neil could only be traced back to the fact that as in the
way with spoiled children, he had grown to be a spoiled adult. The thought of someone else,
someone so obviously his inferior, having what he did not-could not have was quite irritating
to say the least. And through the petting of his overindulgent mother and the rest of her
circle, he had come to believe himself the story he had authored of his break-up with the
elusive Miss Huddleston. He had painted himself a picture of her pining away for him in the
mountains surrounded by toothless old men and dirty children. The thought of not one, but two
single men, who though far too rustic to be accepted as gentlemen, might possibly tempt a young
girls fancy when nothing better could be found. And if Christy had anything, Jared thought
morosely, it was fancy. 

Neil, both hands raking through his hair, took a step towards the Jared and stopped. "Mr.
Monru," he began, his voice low and edgy, "If yu an' Ah had ha' thes conversation one week
agoo, Ah woold hav' quickly thrown ma hypocratic oath tu do no herm oot the wendow an' Ah woold
be probably be whackin' yu senseless right noe." 

Jared's earlier hope for a good fisticuff with the old doctor started to slip away as he
nervously caught sight of the strong bronzed hands clenched tightly on the chair Neil had
placed between them, somewhat of a physical barrier to remind himself of the one already
established in his mind. 

"But yu hav noothing ta fear from me noe, " Neil spoke in small clipped phrases. The control he
was portraying was hard won. "Thru tha' enfluence of Miss Huddleston an' Miss Henderson, Ah
hav' become a Christian." 

David, still unnoticed in the background, felt a twinge of something akin to regret that his
name had not been among the influences in Neil's conversion. 

". . .tha' is so impertant, " Neil continued, "because Ah am told by God thet Ah must love yu.
Ah duna thenk yu ca' know how hard tha is for me right noe. Ah am noot 'enamored' weth Christy
as yu say, Ah am veery much in love weth haire. An', " he continued with a hint of a smile in
his eyes, "she tells me she loves me too. As mooch as I consider myself unworthy of tha' love,
Ah believe en haire enoof to let haire make haire oon decisions. She has toold me of haire
brief engagement tu yu, an as a geentlemen, Ah trust tha' yu will respect haire choice." 

Beads of sweat were standing on Neil's forehead as he finished his words. He wished that he
could say more, be eloquent in convincing the startup of the intensity of the relationship that
he and Christy shared, but what mere words could portray that? He decided to finish while he
was ahead and closed the interview with, "Ah have soom patients tha' Ah must attend tu an' Ah
am sure Ruby Mae weel hav' yur dinner soon. Good day, Mr. Monru." 

Neil turned on his heel and almost fled the porch. His only desire to get very far away before
the calm reserve he had cloaked himself in tore to shreds. He was paused in his flight by David
who put his hand on Neil's shoulder, intent on applauding him for his control. But not knowing
the preacher's intention and knowing he did not have the where-with-all to endure another
confrontation, pulled away from his grasp and stated somewhat abruptly, "Please, reverend, Ah
canna' anoother sech attack right noe. Let me regroup an' yu can hav' yur shot a' me later." 

With that he all but ran from the mission house leaving David silently berating himself for his
failure to make amends with the doctor previously and a very shocked Jared staring open mouthed
at the chair, the "old" doctor had just released. David watched Neil's exiting back
momentarily, then his fleshly nature got the better of him once again and resorted to blaming
the doctor for the rift between them. 

David turned to address Jared, and noticed the young man still gaping moments later at the same
chair. David advance further on the porch to get a better look and was met with a sight that
conveyed more than any words, the struggle the doctor had waged to control his furor. The back
of the caned oak rocker, where Neil had "rested" his hands had been torn clean in two, the
spindles loosed from their notches, nothing more now than splinters of wood. 

Part ten

Neil spent the rest of the morning and well into the afternoon catching up with his patients,
and attempting to put the conflicting thoughts of the earlier interview out of his mind. He
would just have to deal with that later. Dan Scott had done a fine job of tending to things
during Christy's recuperation. That was another thing Neil added to his mental list. It was all
so clear to him now, as if a veil had been lifted-or torn in two. His attitude toward the would
be doctor had been unconscionable. He paused for a moment in a rueful thought, he had regarded
Dan as David had regarded him. Neil immediately sought the forgiveness of his heavenly Father
for the prejudice that had clouded his judgement and decided that the rest of the courtesy
calls could wait until he had spoken with Dan. Although Neil was somewhat wary about
approaching him and the reception he would receive, there was a peace that came from knowing
that at that point it was no longer under his control. Neil MacNeill, the man who had to
dominate everything, was finding a simple release in being able to give these burdens to the
nail scarred hands that were so much stronger than his own. 

Neil's time with Dan had been quite satisfactory. Dan had been apprehensive initially. He was
not quite sure of the doctor's motives. But when Neil looked him square in the eye and humbly
asked for his forgiveness, Dan gave it sincerely with a hearty handshake and a slap on the back
to boot. Neil truly regretted the necessity of cutting his time with Dan short that day, but he
knew it was just the first of many such meetings that would be beneficial to them both. 

Meanwhile back at the mission, David was attempting to enter into polite conversation with the
visitor. Jared insisted on flinging veiled insults regarding every aspect of the mission,
school, and general life in Cutter Gap. Even an in tune listener could not pull out any
obviously discourteous words, but his manner remained patronizing and aloof. Not that David
desired an intimate friendship with this, oh what word could be used to describe his arrogance,
but David did feel as the head of the mission that no guest should be treated with contempt,
especially that which he felt towards this "man". Finally, Alice announced that the noon meal
was ready. 

Ruby Mae had more than outdone herself this time. She had been inspired by a picture in one of
Christy's books of a wrack of lamb with the little cloth "booties", so she had artistically
arranged her possum all legs, feet still intact, sticking straight to heaven with four of Miss
Alice's best lace tea doilies wrapped around them with twine. Another picture in the beloved
book had shone a roast pig complete with apple. Finding the possums mouth too small for this
feat, she had struck upon the idea to stuff a persimmon it its pointed muzzle. Unfortunately
when David when to carve the masterpiece, the air trapped inside by the cooking was displaced
by the pressure of the knife and caused that persimmon to discharge from out of the mouth,
strike Mr. Jared Michael Monroe squarely in the forehead, bounce off his starched shirt front
and fall with a splat onto his breeches. 

A dead silence filled the room. David prayed with all his strength that he would not rupture
something holding back the bellowing laugh he felt about to possess him. The look of horror on
Ruby Mae's face as she fled the room, apron over her face, at the ruination of her gourmet
cuisine was only matched by that of Mr. Monroe as he started transfixed at the drizzle of gravy
on his chest. Miss Alice, a slight twitching at the corner of her mouth, still seemed to be the
most composed of the group, and quickly busied herself getting a towel for the unfortunate
gentleman. After waiting several minutes for her return, David gratefully excused himself to
see if she needed any assistance. He found her in the kitchen, leaning heavily on the counter,
tears streaming down her face as she firmly covered her mouth with her hands. 

She looked at the reverend with an unmistakable twinkle in her eye and squeezed out, "Pride
goeth before a fall, and a haughty face before destruction." 

Part eleven

Neil slowly made his way back to the mission. He had been thinking and praying ever since
leaving Dan Scott's cabin. There was a myriad of thoughts competing in his head. More than
anything he wanted to hold Christy. Mawkish as that seemed even to him, it was the primary
desire of his heart to take her into his arms, rest his chin on the top of her head, hide
himself in her hair, and for a sweet moment forget the rest of the world existed. The thought
startled Neil. He knew that he loved her beyond himself, but it was just now revealed to him
how much he needed her. His very soul begged for her presence. This dawning made the task he
had set before himself all that more foreboding. 

After the mealtime fiasco, Christy had requested to speak with Jared in her room. God is
sovereign in all his ways and between the thought provoking scene with the doctor on the porch
and the stomach wrenching escapade at the table, the fine city gentleman was a trifle ruffled
by the time he obtained his "private moment". 

Christy was sitting by the doors to her balcony when he knocked. She bid him enter and as she
sat there, her hair cascading over her shoulders, the Smoky Mountains the perfect backdrop for
her beauty, he momentarily cursed himself the fool for allowing her to slip through his
fingers- but only for a moment and only for her beauty. Jared had not reached the level where
he could appreciate Christy, or any woman, for the workings of her heart more than the workings
on her gowns, and perhaps never would. Christy knew this. She had known this since Asheville,
and was once again strongly reminded of it in the parlor today. Neil had nothing to worry about
from Jared Monroe. 

Jared stood there, debating what course of action to take. Should he continue the concerned
lover charade and risk another encounter with that colossal doctor or worse yet another meal
from that hillbilly redhead, or should he concede and find another out of the way spot to lay
low? They both knew why he was there. 

No, Christy was not aware of Jared's gambling debts, but it would not have surprised her if she
had known. It was a lark to him. A quick diversion from whatever happened to be displeasing him
at the moment in the city. It must not be thought poorly on Christy's behalf because of her
former associate with the wayward youth. She was not much more than a child herself when she
had been wooed by his charms, but as she matured into the responsible and intelligent woman who
had almost single handedly turned Cutter Gap on its ear, she realized that the time spent with
her childhood beau was colored by the gallant man she thought him to be, not the self-indulgent
boy that he truly was. 

Although his pride had a strong pull, Jared's base desire for comfort, both mental and
physical, won out. Before Christy could present him with her carefully rehearsed speech on the
futility of his visit he abruptly announced, "Well, Chris, I'm leaving." 

The shock registered in her eyes prompted him to add, "Not that it hasn't been a 'hoot', as I'm
sure the natives say, but it is obvious that you have no intention of leaving here. And even if
you did, I'm no fool. There's nothing for us. Never really was if we admit it." Then with a
serious look that amazed her he added, "That doctor is a very lucky man." With that he
deposited an awkward but brotherly kiss on her cheek and made his way out. 

Jared Monroe would never cease to amaze her. Christy had heard the interview between him and
Neil on the porch that morning. Her heart swelled as she remembered Neil's restraint. He
certainly showed more than she had, the broken pieces of her water pitcher in the wastebasket
attesting to that fact. But what had caused Jared to give up the fight so easily? Not that she
was at all disappointed. She looked down at the Bible resting in her lap, and a smile slowly
spread across her face. 

"Christy Huddleston," she chided herself, "here you've been all day, praying and worrying about
this. And if you're honest a little more worrying than praying. And now the Lord has worked it
all out with no more damage than a broken water jar and you're surprised. From that encounter
on the porch, it was obvious Neil has been praying too. Lord," she confessed, "forgive me for
doubting-for being surprised that you answer the prayers of your children." 

She rose and looked at the day slowly fading, her thoughts automatically turning to Neil. He
had only been gone from her side for a few short hours, but it felt so much longer. Neil had
just entered the mission yard and instinctively looked up to Christy's window. He was rewarded
by the sight of her standing just inside the doors, her face raised to the mountains, the
evening sun softly glowing on her loosened hair. She noticed him in an instant and with a
delighted look, beckoned him in. Neil's heart pounded as he took the steps three at a time
almost colliding with Jared as he beat his hasty retreat. The two men surveyed each other
momentarily. Jared opened his mouth to speak and then as if thinking better of it quickly
mounted his horse and rode to put as much distance between his impeccable taste and Cutter Gap,
and possum cuisine as he could. Neil did not dwell long on his departure as he saw Christy
making her way down the stairs, supporting herself on the railing. He frowned slightly and
perceiving his concern, she straightened herself to her full height and attempted to take any
trace of discomfort from her face. But as Neil was not only a doctor, but worshiper of that
face, he could easily see the strain there. 

By the time Neil reached the landing, she was to the bottom step, where she was able to look
him squarely in the eye. The warmth she saw there made it impossible for her to resist resting
her arms on his shoulders, a new vantage point, and leaning into his kiss. She pulled away
quickly not sure where the other inhabitants of the mission were and allowed him to lead her to
the settee. Neil held onto her small waist as he lowered her gently, watching for any sign of
pain in her movements. 

"I'm alright, really, Neil," she told him, the thrill of just speaking his name set a sparkle
to her eyes. "Besides, I know of a very capable and handsome doctor, if-" She let her teasing
fall as she saw the tell tale furrow on his brow. 

"Yes, Ah guess tha' culd be another doctor," he answered without a trace of bitterness. 

"Oh, Neil, you know that's not what I meant. I was just-" 

"No, Christy, Tis me, Ah just ha' soomthin' Ah moost say tu yu an' yu havta haire me oot." Neil
pulled away from her and rose. He stood with his back to her, knowing if he caught those eyes
he would not be able to continue on the course he had purposed to follow, where ever it led. He
ran his fingers through his hair, paused for a moment to collect his thoughts, and then began. 

"Ah knoo tha the past few days ha' been . . . " 

"Wonderful," Christy answered softly. She wasn't making this any easier. 

"Yes, they hav been wonderful. Moore tha' Ah cud aver imagine, but Christy hav yu thought aboot
tha' future. Hav yu thought aboot down the rood a bit. Ah dunna thenk tha Ah wud be surprisin'
yu if Ah said Ah hoped to marry yu soomday. But hav yu thought aboot tha'? Yu aire so young,
an' thaire is so mooch in this world beyond Cutter Gap." 

Jared's words of that morning were quietly mocking Neil in his mind. He allowed himself to let
the doubts creep in. "Doon't give tha' all up for yur romantic notions of me. Aire yu sure tha'
yu want to trade those 'fashoonable cercels' in Asheville for the life of a doctor's wife haire
in the mountains? Please thenk aboot it, pray aboot it. It may seem like wha' yu want noe, but
yu may change yur mind." 

"Like Margaret did?" Christy asked softly as she watched his back stiffen at the name. Her
heart ached to reassure him of their newly confessed love, but she knew with a wisdom somewhat
beyond her years that he would need to work out these fears. That he needed to put all these
options before her in his reasonable and scientific manner and be sure for himself that she was
making an "informed decision." 

"Aye, like Margaret did," Neil answered, his voice barely more than a whisper. "Ah, Ah just
wan' yu to be sure. Ah don't wan' tu loose yu, Christy, my life, but I love yu too much tu tie
yu doon." There was silence for a moment, and Neil felt for sure his worst fears were about to
be realized, until he felt a pair of small arms slip around his waist, a soft cheek press
against his back. He looked down at the hands that barely met in front of him and after a half
second of hesitation covered those little hands, the hands that held his whole world, with his
own. 

"I love you, Neil," her words somewhat muffled as she buried her face in his shirt. "I know you
know this in your heart, but it may take a while for me to convince your mind. I'm willing to
spend my lifetime trying." 

A burning in his chest told Neil he had been holding his breath, waiting, and his expiration
had the sound of a sigh of relief. Christy felt a warm wetness on her hands, and with a tug on
her heart knew them to be his tears. She did not relax her embrace until she felt him turning
in her arms. Now facing her, his head dipped, and rested a grateful kiss on her lips. 

*************

The rest of Christy's recovery was uneventful. She was able to convince her parents not to cut
their European tour short, but the moment they returned they were on a train. Their visit
lasted several weeks, and they were treated to the beauty of summer in the cove. When William
and Julia Huddleston returned to Asheville, they left behind in Cutter Gap several momentoes of
their time abroad, but nothing so cherished as their blessing on Neil and Christy's proposed
union. The only thing that disturbed the contented pair, that often time brought tears to
Christy's eyes in her room at night alone, was the still unmended relationship between Neil and
Reverend David Grantland. 

The End!

Go to: ...By Our Love the Sequel