Holiday Happiness
author: Lynda@dcupss.com 
 
Disclaimer:Catherine Marshall's beautiful story of Christy is owned by the Marshall-LeSourd Family, L.L.C.  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 writers of the alt.tv.christy Round Robin and the
Christy Mailing
List. The content of each story is the responsibility of the individual writer. The fanfic here is being posted as a
service to the Christy mailing list, Pax Christy Forum and Alt.tv.christy News Group. 

Time:  takes place a week before Thanksgiving and a few weeks after CotH wedding.  (Which I presume is fall since prior
to the flood Christy mentions a wet summer and the Spencer’s have corn drying)

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Chapter one

The ride to Asheville was a welcome silence.  The wedding had been very stressful.  Everyone in the cove was happy for
the MacNeill’s but there had been some rumblings.  No one would say anything directly but to marry Neil so quickly after
being engaged to David for so long was not what many had expected.  Friends were supportive and loving and they were
a source of strength many times.  Sundays were particularly difficult.  David was wonderful. It must have taken him hours
of meditation and prayer to face the congregation every week.  He was always professional and purposely chose sermons
that would stir the emotions to glorify God.  The MacNeill’s would remain separated during their time at the mission.  Neil
would stay close to Jeb and discuss the latest “cove news” while Christy would lean on Miss Alice or the children.  Alice
Henderson was happy for Christy and Neil.  Christy would find great strength from her support while she resumed her
teaching responsibilities.  She found facing David every day the most difficult.  He continued to teach Mathematics and
Religion of course but for his own self-preservation he had hid himself behind an emotional wall.  Christy so wanted to
help him with the pain she had caused but was lost in how to do so.  Instead she kept their contact only in the
classroom.  At best this was awkward and uncomfortable.  For now, however, Christy was enjoying the rhythmic peace of
the train.

 

Neil, who had been lost in a medical journal when last she noticed, was now sleeping.  His head leaning forward on his
chest, he looked like a little boy after a hard day of play instead of a doctor who had been away from home for 2 days
checking on every family before he made this trip.

 

In so many ways the last few weeks had flown by for Christy.  Neil was great about the new “do dads”.  Many of his
things were relocated to the laboratory or barn.  So far their biggest argument had been about the lace curtains Christy’s
mother had sent.  The dainty lace did not enhance Neil’s rustic cabin windows but it had taken Christy all day to hang
and she wasn’t taking them down that very same evening.  

 

I will remove them within the week she had first thought but when Neil’s response had been a large belly laugh that could
be heard in the garden she changed her mind.

 

“Oh Christy” he said between gasps for air.  Then he would laugh some more.  She had resolved to leave the curtains
where they hung.  A highlander’s pride was a powerful thing and now that she had married a highlander she was learning
to hold a grudge.

 

Christy looked at Neil again and smiled.  She knew she shouldn’t have made a stink again about the curtains and Neil
had learned not to bring up the topic again.  She made a note to herself to pick up some fabric in Asheville.  Perhaps
Mary Allen could teach her to sew curtains in exchange for some fabric.  She would surprise Neil for Christmas.  In the
mean time she thought of Asheville.

 

Thanksgiving was always a special holiday for her mother.  Christy’s parents had made the trip to Cutter Gap last year.  It
had not been a traditional Huddleston thanksgiving but it was a truly thankful one.  Her father’s recovery was miraculous. 
This visit had helped her parents come to understand her love of the cove but some how they hadn’t fully grasped the
different life she had chosen.  She smiled thinking of all the crates and trunks her mother had sent and what a site they
had been on the platform before their departure from El Pano.   She tried to mask her giggle by clearing her throat.

 

Neil stirred slightly.  She was glad he was finally resting.  He had been trying so hard to care for everyone in the cove
while repairing the cabin from the damages caused by the flooding and his 3 months away.  Christy feared he wasn’t
getting enough rest.

 

Christy gazed out the window again.  There were more buildings and she figured they were closer to Asheville.  Oh what a
week mother had in store for them.  As a wedding gift Christy’s aunt had given them these train tickets to return for
thanksgiving.  Everyone in the family would be there to meet the newlyweds.  Everyone would over eat also.  Christy
wondered what her friends in the cove would think of the abundance and waste that always accompanied a Huddleston
event.  She also wondered how Neil would feel about the fall Festival Saturday night.  She had avoided telling him and
wasn’t sure how to bring it up.  Her church had a dance every year at this time because so many members returned
home for the holiday.  It was a formal event and though her mother still had many of Christy’s old ball gowns she knew
Neil had nothing formal enough.  She had packed his best suit but knew people would make him feel out of place. 
Usually when an event was this formal he would wear his grandfather’s kilt.  Mother would be mortified if she had packed
that.  The image of Neil in his kilt caused Christy to sigh aloud.

 

“Penny for your thought” said Neil breaking Christy’s trance.

 

Christy, thinking her husband was sleeping, jumped at the sound of his voice.  His eyes looked as if he could read her
thought and suddenly she was blushing.

 

“ I was remembering our wedding,” answered Christy.

 

“ By the color of you face I’d say you were thinking of our wedding night” he whispered mischievously.  This caused
Christy to turn an even brighter shade of red.  Neil laughed at her reaction and gave her a kiss on the cheek.  “I love to
make you blush,” he whispered.

 

Christy had blushed often since they were wed and never felt uncomfortable about doing so in front of her husband.  He
was tender while they learned to be husband and wife.  He had smiled through each burnt meal and volunteered to cook
occasionally.  He encouraged her to continue teaching when others said married women shouldn’t work.  Most
importantly he knew how to comfort her when she needed it most.  He was her best friend and champion.  She loved him
fully.

 

She was about to tell him so when the train whistles blew signaling their arrival to Asheville.


Chapter two

 

 “I’ll check on our luggage,” said Neil as he helped his wife off the train.  “Maybe I can arrange for storage until we can get
  a wagon to pick it up.”  He gave her a smile and was off.  Christy scanned the platform looking for a familiar face.  The
                 train had arrived unexpectedly early and the station was practically empty.

 

From the doorway of the station she watched Neil carefully check that each crate was accounted for.  A member of the
train crew climbed back into the cargo car apparently amazed by the number of crates two people could have.  While Neil
was speaking with the porter an elegantly dressed woman interrupted.  She must have been wearing an abundance of
perfume because Christy notice her husband step back and rub his nose in an attempt to prevent a sneeze.  She could
tell he was becoming more agitated by this woman by the way he was standing.  This woman then started talking to
Neil.  Well perhaps not with him but more likely at him.  Dumbfounded he nodded politely and tilted a strange trunk.  He
dragged it to the edge of the platform and jumped off into the street.  He then began struggling with the overloaded trunk
while trying to load it into an automobile.

 

“Christy Huddleston!” exclaimed the mystery woman from across the platform.  “It’s me… Martha, Martha Dean!  Well
Martha Middleton now!  Oh Christy how wonderful to see you.  Mother and I were just talking about you the other day. 
Are you back from your visit with the hillbillies?  We must get together and catch up.  You will come for a visit at mothers
won’t you?  I understand you’ve married too!  Isn’t it wonderful?  Marcus is from New York and that’s where we’re living
now.  Of course I come home whenever the mood strikes me.  Mother says I talk like a Yankee now but I don’t believe
her.  Well I must be going.  I noticed that transient finally got my trunk loaded.  It’s so hard to find reliable help these
days.  Oh well, love to your family and do come to visit at mothers.   I know we’d both love to here about your adventures
and meet your husband.  Tah tah.”  And just as suddenly she was gone.  She walked up to Neil and gave him what
appeared to be money and walked to her car.  Neil gave Christy a confusing look and returned to their luggage.  

 

Christy stood in the doorway in shock.  What had just happened?  She knew Martha from school and was aware she was
never to be trusted.  She had never been friendly with her but had witnessed her deceptions first hand as classmate after
classmate was hurt by her.  Now she stood there replaying in her mind what she had just heard.  Did she really think
Christy had spent the last year visiting hillbillies?  Before she could stop herself she said aloud, “did she just call my
husband an unreliable bum?”

 

“Christy?” asked Neil.  “What did you just say?”

 

“Nothing” she replied not wanting him to see how hurt she felt.

 

“Who was that woman and how do you know her?” he asked.

 

“Martha and I went to school together.  We weren’t friendly so I guess I’m a little shocked that she even noticed me. 
What happened with you and her and the porter?” asked Christy looking where Martha had disappeared.  She was still
trying to figure out what had just happened.

 

“Well Martha, interrupted my conversation with the porter by demanding immediate attention to her luggage.  Since we
had so much the porter asked if I would mind if he took care of her first.  Suddenly she was telling me which piece was
hers and where she wanted it loaded.  I was so amazed that all I could do was nod and comply.  She actually gave me
three dollars to do so and even said when she returns on Monday she hoped I’d be working.  She would see to it I’d get
even a bigger tip then if I hurried when she arrived.  I must admit she riled me a little but when I saw she was a friend of
yours I figured I’d just let her be.  I actually had thought of leaving the trunk next the car and let her drive off without it.”

 

Christy laughed a little.  “She invited us to visit at her mother’s while we’re here.”

 

Neil gave his wife a large grin, squeezed her hand and replied, “ That could be interesting.  Perhaps we should take her
up on her offer.  Come.  Let’s wait for your family inside.  The porter assured me our luggage would be safe until they get
here.  Then we can figure out how to get it to your parent’s house.”

 

Christy smiled.  The thought of introducing Martha to her husband the “transient” and the picture of all that luggage
arriving at her parent’s house made her giggle.

 

 

Christy and Neil waited about an hour.  Neil continued to read his journal occasionally point out something of interest to
his wife.  He loved sharing medical information with her and she really seemed to have a practical grasp of medicine.  She
had helped him on medical calls occasionally and was a great assistant.  More and more she was able to anticipate his
needs and she diagnosing simple medical conditions.  He truly loved her for being interested in medicine.  He knew
surgery wasn’t her favorite part but she no longer passed out during procedures.  While the patient recovered she was
terrific at caring for their needs.  Her compassion helped many of his patients heal faster.  Of that he was convinced.  

 

“Mother!” Christy exclaimed interrupting Neil’s thoughts.   Suddenly there were Huddleston’s everywhere.  Neil thought he
had met everyone at the wedding but that now seemed hardly the case.  Everywhere he looked there was an unfamiliar
face.  Everyone wanted to shake his hand and congratulate the newest family member.

 

“Are you taking good care of my girlie, son?” asked Christy’s father.

 

“I’m doing my best sir” a relieved Neil replied.  Finally a familiar face.  “The porter has all of the luggage and crates on the
end of the platform.  Let me show you.”

 

“In a minute first let me get a hello from my favorite daughter.”  And with that Christy’s father gave her a hug.

 

“Welcome.  How was your trip?”  Mrs. Huddleston asked her son-in-law.  She gave him a polite kiss on the check and a
reserve hug.  Neil knew Christy got her zest from her father and her air of dignity from her mother.

 

“The trip was wonderful.  I was amazed how quickly we got here.” He replied.  Neil liked Christy’s mother but was eager
to talk again with her father.  He felt closer to William perhaps because his mother-in-law had initially doubted his care for
her husband.  He also wanted to make sure everything got back to the Huddleston household.  He knew he would never
be able to replace any of the items in the crates if something were to happen to them.

 

“Come Neil.” Said William Huddleston.  “Let’s check on that luggage now.” And out the door they went. 

 

Neil looked back at his wife.  She didn’t even know he had left she was so busy catching up with her family.  For a brief
moment their eyes met and she gave him a glowing smile that melted his heart.  She was happy and nodded as he went
out the door.

 

William had arranged for several wagons to move the trunks and was glad to see that the task was well underway.  Now
he had a moment alone with Neil.

 

“Son,” he started.  “Did Christy ever tell you about the dance this Saturday evening?”

 

“Excuse me.”  Neil had no idea what William was talking about.

 

“In Christy’s last letter home she told her mother that she would pack your best suit and that it would have to fine for the
dance Saturday.  But you know my wife.  I’m sure your suit is fine but Saturday’s dance is very formal.”

 

“I must apologize sir, Christy has mentioned nothing of a dance.”

 

“Oh my.  Let me explain.”  And so William explained to Neil how important the annual dance was to the Huddleston
women, especially Mrs. Huddleston.  It was a very formal occasion and Neil would need a tuxedo.  “Not to worry I have an
old one that will fit you fine.  That is if you’d allow me to have it altered for you.  I thought we could surprise Christy.”

 

“Well,” Neil hesitated.  He didn’t want to embarrass his bride but he didn’t want to be beholding to her father either.  “I’ll
allow it on one condition.  I want to get a special gift for Christy while we’re here and I need your help.”

 

“Certainly.  Tomorrow we’ll leave and get everything done.  I’m sure we can get away for a short time without suspicion.”

 

“What are you two up to?” asked Christy as she slid her hand into Neil’s elbow.

 

Neil smiled down and kissed her forehead.

 

“Let’s get you two home and fed.”  Answered her father.

 

They all headed to the Huddleston household for a hot meal and a considerable amount of unpacking.


Chapter three

Christy woke to the smell of bacon cooking in the kitchen.  How wonderful she thought. Neil must have come home from
Low Gap and was cooking breakfast before going to bed.

 

“Mornin’ sleepy head”, she heard as she woke.  “ Your mother is holding breakfast for you.  Do you think you can get up
so your starving husband can eat?”

 

Suddenly she realized where she was and without so much as a good morning she was at the basin washing up.  “I’m
sorry, I didn’t realize it was so late!  She said as she searched for her hairbrush.

 

“ Whoa, slow down,” said Neil as he grabbed the brush from her hand.  “Now, let’s start over.  Good morning Neil…” he
prompted with a twinkle in his eye.

 

“Good morning Neil.” Christy answered dutifully offering a kiss as an unspoken apology. 

 

“That’s better.  Now pick a dress to wear and put it on.”  To his surprise she did so and when the dress was on she
retrieved her hairbrush and turned her back to him.  He buttoned her up while she quickly brush and twisted up her hair. 
A few hairpins later and she was ready to put on the shoes Neil had found for her.

 

“There, How’s that?” She asked, seeking her husband’s approval.

 

“Just one more thing” he replied as he kissed her lips.  “I don’t think I’ll be getting many of them today.”

 

She smiled and returned the kiss.  Before they could continue she heard her mother at the foot of the stair.  Slightly
embarrassed she left her husband’s embrace and headed for the dining room.

 

“Oh my” Christy thought as she entered.  The volume of food on the table would have been enough to feed everyone in the
cove.  “Everything looks delicious Nancy.” Said Christy as they sat down.

 

Christy hadn’t gotten to know Nancy very well but from her parent’s letters she knew she was an excellent cook.  Mother
had hired her shortly after father and she had returned home last Thanksgiving.  Initially Nancy was to stay until father
returned to work but mother had grown to love her and had come to depend on her companionship.  So she stayed.

 

Neil passed Christy every dish that was on the table and tried to get her to sample everything until she noticed her plate
was overflowing.

 

“Neil, please.  I would like some room for lunch” she said.  

 

“I’m sure after a morning of shopping you’ll be just fine fro lunch.” He replied with a smile.

 

“Actually girlie, I was hoping to spend the morning with my son-in-law.  So why don’t you take your mother and we’ll meet
at the Cargill.” Answered her father before she could refuse.  Christy noticed her father’s odd expression and knew he
was hiding something but when she looked at Neil he was completely focused on his plate.  He seemed oblivious to his
surroundings and was eating as if he hadn’t eaten in months.

 

“Don’t tell me my daughter still hasn’t learned to cook Dr. MacNeill?” asked Julia Huddleston with a little giggle.

 

Neil removed the fork from his mouth and smiled as he chewed.  As he finished he wiped his mouth and winked at his
wife.  “Christy is a fine cook.  I’ve never left the table hungry for more.”  Christy smiled.  She knew there had been a few
times they both left the table hungry and would pop popcorn over the fire.

 

As breakfast ended Christy and Neil got up to help Nancy clear the table.  Nancy sat in the kitchen bewildered.  Often
the Huddleston’s would invite her to share dinner with them but with company she automatically ate in the kitchen. 
When the MacNeills entered with dirty plates she was shocked.  Her surprise didn’t go unnoticed.  “We’re family Nancy,
please don’t treat us differently.  Mother and Father write often about how terrific you are and I’m grateful to you for how
kindly you treat them.”  Christy wanted the young woman to know her position was secure and that they weren’t a
threat.  “I was hoping,” she continued “you would write down some of your recipes.  Mother is right, I’m not a very good
cook but with your help I could be.”

 

Neil smiled at Nancy from behind Christy.  He hoped that she knew Christy meant what she said.  Suddenly Nancy’s
face lit up.  “Certainly ma’m.  Some are my momma’s and some I just make up as I go along.”

 

In no time the dinning room and kitchen were cleaned.  Christy and her mother headed out to purchase some fabric and
last minute items while Nancy wrote out her recipes.  Neil and William went to the tailor.  William was curious as to what
Neil wanted to get Christy but kept quiet knowing he would share that information eventually.  He did notice Neil slipped
into the jewelry store while he spoke with a friend.  Surely Neil knew Christy would love a piece of jewelry but would have
no practical use for it.  Still he smiled.

 

After lunch at the Cargill the two couples and Nancy began unpacking the crates and getting ready for Thanksgiving.  The
women washed all of the china and glasses.  The MacNeills were forced to explain their laughter as the removed each
piece from the crates.  Even William laughed aloud when Neil repeated his comment… “I’ll not keep my emotions packed
away like a crate of your mother’s china.”  Neil never struck any of them as a man capable of hiding his emotion.  It was
only a matter of looking into his eyes to see what he was feeling.  All day, while unpacking, the only emotion any one
saw was his unquestioning love for Christy.

 

 Chapter four



Neil reached across the bed toward his wife.  He loved waking up with her.  It had seemed like forever since he had felt so
safe and peaceful.  Ever since the night he and Christy were stuck in the storm he had been at peace.  There was
something about working with God instead of against him that made each task easier.  It had given him an unexpected
calm.  Even so it seemed that marrying Christy had given him a sense of safeness.  He gave her his heart and she
returned it tenfold.  She had always encouraged him when he doubted his own abilities.  A simple glance from her and he
seemed invincible.

 

As his hand reached the edge of the bed he realized she was already up.  It was Thanksgiving and the thought of Christy
cooking in the kitchen made him smile.  Christy loved cooking unfortunately not all of her meals were as tasty as she
would have liked.  He got out of bed and began dressing.  He remembered his visit to the jewelry store yesterday and
wondered how he would return to pick up his purchase.  As he washed his face he realized how desperate he was for a
hair cut.  He could stop at the jewelry store when he got his hair cut.

 

A few minutes later he was in the kitchen amazed that it was so full of Huddleston women, each making a different dish. 
He searched the room for Christy and found her peeling potatoes for dinner.  She nearly jumped out of her skin when Neil
surprised her from behind.  “For a minute I thought you were Scallywag” she exclaimed trying to recompose herself.  

 

“Thank you?!? I think.” Responded Neil.

 

“How about some breakfast?” Christy asked as she got her husband the plate she had set aside.  “I’ll be back in a minute
Mother, to finish the potatoes.”  She said as she took Neil and the plate into the other room.

 

“Are we having your mashed potatoes today?  They are my favorite.” Said Neil as he sat down and tucked the napkin in
under his chin.  When Christy didn’t answer he looked up at her.  She looked hurt.

 

“Mother insisted on her potatoes.  It didn’t seem worth an argument so I’m peeling potatoes for her.”

 

Neil took his wife’s hand and gave it a squeeze.  “Well, I’m sure that can wait.  Sit with me please.  Good lord woman,
how hungry do you think I am?” he exclaimed finally noticing the amount of food on his plate.

 

Christy finally gave him a smile.  “Well… after yesterday….”

 

She and Neil were chuckling when Julia Huddleston walked in.  “Potatoes, Christy.”

 

“Yes Mother.”

 

Julia left and Neil stopped his wife as she began to get up.  “Christy, We can leave whenever you want.”  As tears came
to her eyes he pulled her to his lap and held her.  “And we can stay as long as you need to.”  Two big tears rolled down
her cheeks and Neil gave her his napkin.  Julia, looking a bit annoyed, entered.  Neil gave her a protective look and she
backed out without saying a word.  When Christy was calm she gave Neil a kiss.  “Stay close, OK?” she asked.  “Do you
think I’d want to be anywhere else?” he answered and suddenly his beautiful wife was smiling.  “I’ll be in regularly to steal
a kiss or two.”

 

“Neil” she said with a warning as he stole his first kiss.  Soon she was back in the kitchen peeling potatoes.  

 

As Neil finished his breakfast he wondered about his mother-in-law.  She loved Christy with all of her heart but often tried
to mold her into someone she wasn’t.  She also seemed determined to keep Christy a child instead of a grown woman. 
Just as he took his last bite Mrs. Huddleston came in.  “May I have a word with you Doctor?”  She asked.  He nodded
knowing she may never feel comfortable enough to call him Neil.  “If its not too personal why was my daughter crying
earlier?”

 

Neil had to choose his words carefully as to not hurt the woman’s feelings.  “She was disappointed she would not be
making her mashed potatoes.  It’s really the only dish she has mastered and she was hoping to show you.”

 

“I see.  Thank you.” And she returned to the kitchen.  A few minutes later he entered the kitchen to return his breakfast
plate.  “…I’ve looked everywhere.  I know the proportions change when you make them for such a large group but I can’t
remember what they are.”  He heard Christy’s mother say to Nancy.  “Well I suppose we can do without potatoes this
year.  I’m sorry you had to peel so many Christy.  Perhaps if we wrap them we can use some of them tomorrow at
breakfast.”

 

“If it’s all the same to you mother, I’d like to try to make the potatoes.  I’d hate to see them go to waste.”

 

“Of course.” And just like that Christy’s spirit lifted. She was searching cabinets for spices and setting the water on to
boil.  Neil had washed and dried his plate unnoticed and as he left his eyes twinkled at Julia’s and hers twinkled back.

 

Dinner itself was uneventful.  Neil was a little disappointed that everyone had loved Christy’s potatoes so much that there
hadn’t been enough for seconds.  Whenever someone complimented them, Christy beamed and Neil gave her a little
squeeze.  When dinner was over another Huddleston tradition occurred… the men cleared and cleaned the table.  This
was something Nancy couldn’t understand.  Christy explained it was the one day each year that the men broke with the
norm. It was their way of showing thanks the women for all the meals they prepared throughout the year. 

 

Neil quite enjoyed this tradition.  It was something he tried to do whenever he and Christy shared a meal.  When all the
work was done Neil found his wife sitting on a blanket under the sycamore tree in the back yard.  There they sat leaning
against the tree and each other.   Comfortable in the quietness.  Neil noticed, before long, that Christy was asleep.  He
wrapped his arms around her and allowed himself to doze off.  

 

Nancy found them just before everyone left.  Christy gave everyone a hug and kiss.  Each hug was tighter than the one
before.  She had no idea how long it would be before she would see them again.  Neil smiled and shook their hands and
made no attempt to remember anyone’s name.  He only had to see Christy’s eyes to know that it would be a long time
before this many family members would be together.  He was sure over time she would tell him stories.  He would
encourage her to sketch their faces.  Which reminded him when he was out next he would pick up a pad and pencils for
her for Christmas.  

 

Before going to bed that evening the Huddlestons and McNeills had pie together.  This time Nancy joined them.

 

The next day was more relaxed and uneventful.  Neil left to get his haircut early and was home before lunch.  His hair
though short seemed as wild as ever.  When he returned he hid his packages at the bottom of their trunk.  He scanned
the room and chose one more item and hid that too.  Later he would find wrapping paper and wrap them just in case
Christy came across them.  After lunch the MacNeills toured Asheville.  They held hands as they looked in the windows
and they enjoyed each other’s company.

 

That evening during dinner Christy’s parents started telling stories about Christy’s childhood.  All evening they laughed
and ate.  Occasionally Christy blushed, and then she would meet Neil’s eyes and blush more.  When she blushed Neil
could see into the very depth of her soul.  And he loved her more.  

Chapter five



Saturday started uneventful.  Neil and Christy woke early but lay in bed whispering things only newlyweds seem to have
time to say.  When they finally joined her parents breakfast was nearly over.  Christy had agreed to help Nancy make
food for the dance that evening.  They would start baking shortly and Neil would be on his own for the morning.  He and
William went for a walk while the ladies baked.  Neil saw his office and met a physician friend of William’s for lunch at the
hospital.  They even had a small tour of the hospital and Neil was quite envious.  He wished they had something as
modern closer to Cutter Gap.  By the time Neil and his father-in-law returned the women were gone.  

 

They had taken their baked goods to the church for the dance and were helping arrange the beverages for later in the
evening.  When they returned home they were surprised to see Neil had fixed leftovers for “dinner”.  Neil apologized for it
was not a proper dinner, but he assured them it would nourish them.  They quickly ate and started to get ready.  

 

Christy had found several of her old gowns while they were there and chose two that weren’t too out of style.  She gave
one to Nancy and she added a ribbon to her own.  The extra ribbon she would use when she fixed her hair.  She was glad
the her girls at school loved that part of her hygiene classes and she fixed her hair into a complicated braid with some of
her hair hanging long and some of it tied up.  She took the extra ribbon and “sewed” it through her hair. 

 

 With all the fussing Christy was doing and the amount of room she was taking up with her gowns and under garments
Neil resigned himself to dress down the hall way.  When he finished he waited with William downstairs for their respective
wives.  Even Nancy had dressed quickly for a woman they commented.  Julia encouraged her daughter to wait and make
an entrance.  Neil had only seen his wife dressed this elegantly on their wedding day and Julia was sure the site of her
would take his breath away.  She wasn’t wrong.  

 

As Christy stepped off the landing Neil beamed.  How did I get so lucky he wondered?  It was then that Christy noticed
he wasn’t wearing his suit but one of her father’s old tuxedos.  She remembered feeling the same excitement the day he
returned to the mission from Baltimore.  Her heart was beating outside her chest and all she could do was run to him,
throw her arms around him and kiss him with all the passion she had been trying for days to suppress.  When she finally
finished kissing him she hugged him more tightly.  Almost afraid to let him go.  Neil laughed at the lack of propriety she
was showing in front of her mother and swung her around like a schoolboy in love.  

 

The Huddlestons just beamed at the love and happiness their daughter had found.  Nancy, feeling a little uncomfortable,
cleared her throat.  Neil put her down and took her hand in his left hand and kissed her fingers.  Christy only saw Neil’s
eyes but her parents and Nancy saw what must have been the piece of jewelry Neil had purchased the other day. 
William thought yes.  He does know what my girlie would want.

 

When they arrived the women went to check on the food while William introduced his son-in-law to his associates.

 

From across the room Neil watched his wife help serve food.  He had seen her do this in the cove but here it seemed
unnatural.  Suddenly he realized that for the first time since they were married he was feeling jealous. Christy knew many
of the men she was serving and no doubt had been courted by several of them.  She was friendly to them and was talking
to them about events and conversations that he would never be a part of.  He never thought to be jealous of David and
Christy perhaps because they both had only known her in the cove.  But here she was in her element, she was one of
them.  Not a highlander or a mountain woman but a member of society expected to perform certain functions and to
marry a certain type of man.  No matter how Neil dressed he would always be a mountain man.  He was beginning to feel
uncomfortable when he saw a familiar face staring at him from across the room.

 

It was Martha Middleton.  The woman from the train station.  From the look on her face she didn’t seem to remember
him.  If he hadn’t known she was married he would have figured she had a “smitten” look on her face.  When their eyes
met she quickly looked away.  He watched her from across the room.  It was far less frustrating than watching his wife
converse with other men.  As Martha approached Christy, Neil refocused his attention to William’s friends.

 

“Well, doesn’t this just beat all?  Christy! I can’t believe I’m seeing you again and so soon!  I had hoped to come visit but
the days have gotten away from me.  I hope your Thanksgiving was terrific.  I’m so sad my Marcus couldn’t make it
down.  He’s been so busy buying and selling land that he doesn’t seem to get a free moment even when I’m home. 
Thank goodness I can come home often or I’d be simply bored in New York.  You can only see so many museums and
go to so many plays in one season.  And there are so many people you can’t keep up with all the commitments.  If I’m
not hosting an event, Marcus is taking me to one.  I can’t believe how much quieter it is here.”

 

“I can imagine.” Answered Christy.  She was a little annoyed at Martha for interrupting her conversation with Patrick. 
Patrick had been a wonderful suitor.  Very attentive and understanding.  They both had known it was expected that they
get married but they had only been friends.  Neither had felt the spark of love that they each had with their spouses and
were both grateful that they were all still friendly.  Martha seemed to have the timing of her students when it came to
interrupting.

 

“Did you notice that handsome fellow over there?  I don’t believe I’ve ever seen him before?  I know I’m married but as my
Marcus says some people just turn your head.” 

 

Christy suddenly felt sorry for Martha.  Could Martha be so blind to not notice her husband was avoiding her and was
probably taking up with other women?

 

“Oh Christy you must know him? He’s talking with your father.  Please introduce us…. I must meet him.”  Begged
Martha.

 

It was than that Christy realized Martha was talking about her beloved Neil.  Of course she thought he was the most
handsome fellow in the room but to know that on that evening, as Martha returned to her mother’s house alone, she
would be sleeping in the safety of his arms brought a smile to her face and warmth to her heart.  “Of course” she
answered.

 

Neil noticed them approaching and was hoping his wife would forgive him for what he was about to do.

 

“Martha Middleton, How do you do? It is truly a wonder to see you again.  I do hope you are well.  Did your belongings
arrive at your mother’s safely?”  He said in his thickest s brogue, kissing her extended hand and giving her his undivided
attention.

 

“Why yes it did.  Thank you for asking.” She replied.  She obviously didn’t remember him and he was enjoying every
moment.

 

“Please introduce me to your friend.” He asked Martha.  

 

Christy’s father stood back, proud of his son-in-law’s approach to the towns most notorious busy body.

 

“Yes of course.  Christy Huddleston.” Forgetting Christy was married.  “Allow me to introduce ummm.  I must apologize,
your name escapes me.”

 

“ Doctor Neil MacNeill.  And no apologies are necessary we were never formally introduced.  You see I was the unreliable
transient that loaded your trunk the other day at the train station.”  Martha’s mouth dropped open.  William smiled proudly
as did Christy.

“I would like to thank you for the money you gave me that day.  It was just enough to by something for my wife that she
has wanted but felt was too frivolous to spend our money on.”  Now Christy was confused.  He continued taking Christy’s
hand “Mrs. MacNeill, May I have the pleasure of this dance?” and he kissed her hand. 

 

“Neil! You are wearing a wedding ring!”  She grabbed her husband and kissed him in a manner inappropriate for a church
social.  Neither she nor Neil cared.

 

Soon they were on the dance floor, whirling and twirling.  They didn’t see Martha the rest of the evening.  Christy did
manage to introduce Neil and Patrick and Neil no longer felt threatened by the memories of former beaus.  He need only
look into his wife’s eyes to see she loved only him. 

 

The only man Neil shared Christy with that evening was her father.  Christy however made sure that for every two dance
she had with Neil he would dance one with Nancy.  Before the evening ended Nancy too had a full dance card.  Christy
had had the most wonderful evening and yet was grateful when it ended.  For she got to fall asleep in the safety of her
husbands arms.

Chapter six


Sunday.

Neil rolled away from the sunlight coming into the bedroom window.  He was grateful to be going home today.  Morning in
the cove seemed less harsh.  The woods filtered the early morning sun easing him out of sleep.  As he faced his wife he
noticed the love she exuded even in her sleep.  She was so beautiful, so peaceful, all he wanted to do was reach out and
touch her face.  Instead he just watched her.  When she finally woke and saw him she curled up into his arms and
snuggled up close remembering how she felt when she saw him all dressed up.  After a few minutes they reluctantly got
up and began packing their trunks.  Neil had wrapped Christy’s Christmas gifts and carefully hidden them at the bottom
under his clothes.  They had also purchased some special gifts for their friends in the cove, which were also carefully
packed away in this trunk.  In Christy’s trunk were yards of cloth, a gift for each child in her class and some special
candy for each of them.

 

As Neil brought the third trunk down the stair he wondered if he was taking more back to Cutter Gap than they had
brought initially.  He asked Christy’s father to help place a call to the mission.  He would need Jeb’s wagon to the three
trunks and medical supplies back from El Pano.

 

“Hello Ruby Mae?  This is Doctor MacNeill.”

 

“Oh Doc. I’m so glad yea called.  Miz Alice ain’t here.  She’s in Low Gap.  People thar have da fever.  She said you gotta
get thar as soon as yea get back and bring medicine.  They got it bad Doc.  She said three people are dead already
Doc.”

 

“OK Ruby Mae, Let me speak with Reverend Grantland if he’s there.”

 

“OK Doc hang on.”

 

“Hello Doctor.  What is it?” Asked David a bit apprehensively.

 

“Ruby Mae says there’s a fever epidemic in Low Gap.  What do you know about it?”

 

“Not much more we got a call from El Pano on Thanksgiving.  Alice left right away.  Ben was by on Saturday and told us
three had died.”

 

“Alright when I get to El Pano I’ll stock my supplies and head out.  I need you to make sure Jeb Spencer can get to the
train station with his wagon and take Christy and our things back to the cabin.  Also I’ll be gone a few days I need to
know Christy can stay at the Mission if she as a need to.”

 

“Of course.  She can stay in her old room.  I’ll ride out to the Spencer’s after we hang up.”  

 

“Thank you Reverend.  We’ll be in El Pano at 3:00 when I see Alice I’ll have her contact you.”

 

“That will be fine.  Is there anything else?”

 

“ No.  I don’t think so.  Thank you again Reverend.  Good bye.”

 

“Good bye.”

 

And with that they hung up.  Neil wondered if he should tell Christy or allow her to remain undistracted until they were on
the train home.

 

“Is everything alright?” asked William.

 

“Yes, fine.  Are we almost ready?” responded Neil, clearly distracted by his call.

 

“Christy is just making one final check of things then we can go”.  Replied Julia.

 

“I’ll go check too.”  Stated Neil flatly as he took the stairs two at a time.  “Christy?” he asked as he entered their room.  “I
need to speak with you before we leave.”

 

“Sure.  What is it?” she answered.

 

“Ruby Mae says there’s an illness in Low Gap and Alice is already there.  Three are dead.  I’ll need to leave immediately
when we get to El Pano.  I’d like you to stay here for a week till I’m sure of what it is then I’ll send for you.”

 

“Absolutely not!”  Replied Christy.  “I’ve got a school to teach and a home to take care of I’m going home.  I’ll be fine and
plenty busy with the school and the holiday coming.”

 

“That’s my girl.  I just wanted you to have the option of saying.  I’m glad you’re heading home” and with that he gave her a
twirl.

 

“Do my parents know?” asked Christy.

 

“No.”

 

“Good.  Let’s not tell them.  They’ll want me to stay and I’m can’t bear not to be home.”

 

“Well we better go before they come looking for us.”

 

“Just one more thing” said Christy as she boldly grabbed her husband and kissed him deeply and just as quickly let him
go.  She giggled at the surprised look on his face.

 

“Oh, Yea think that’s funny?” replied Neil as he took her in his arms and kissed her more intimately and more powerfully
than any wife could have imagined.  When he finally released her from the embrace they both were breathless and
exhausted.

 

“Ready?” asked Neil.

 

“Uh huh.” Replied his wife still in a stupor from the kiss.

 

Neil smiled as he helped his wife down the stairs to her waiting parents.

 

Good byes at the station were quick with promise of a visit soon.  Christy was surprised that she wasn’t sad about
leaving.

 

Once on the train and heading home Neil leaned into the corner against the window.  “Come here” he told his wife with his
arms wide open.

 

“Neil?!? What will people think?”

 

“I don’t care what they think.  When this train stops in El Pano I’ll be gone for God knows how long and will only have my
memories to keep me warm at night.”

 

Christy finally realized Neil would be gone for many days.  The longest he’d been gone since they were married was two
nights and on the third day he was at the table with breakfast ready.  She could feel the tears come to her eyes as she
crawled up his chest and into his arms.  She tried to soak in the touch, his smell, his very being.

 

“Shhhh love.  I’ll be home as soon as I can.  I couldn’t bear to be away a moment longer than absolutely necessary.”

 

All Christy could do was cuddle closer.

 

“I want you to promise me something.”

 

“OK” she said.

 

“I’ve talked with Grantland and you can stay at the mission for as long as you need to whenever you need to.”

 

“But…”

 

“Now listen.  I don’t want to be worrying about you anymore than I need to.  I may be gone a week or more.  So promise
me if the weather is bad or if you’re lonely, or for any reason, you’ll stay at the mission.  The reverend said you can stay
in your old room.  Ruby Mae will be there and I know David is a man of honor.  It’ll be awkward, but I need to have you
safe.  Promise me….”  Neil said with a begging tone to his voice.

 

“Of course.  I promise I’ll manage it somehow.  So you won’t worry a bit?” she said jokingly.

 

“No not a bit.” He laughed.  They both knew rest would be difficult until they returned to each other’s arms.

 

“While we’re still alone” Christy whispered, “I want you to promise me something.  When ever you doubt yourself or are
lonely or start missing me, twist your ring and remember I’m here loving you.  Like this circle of gold… unending.”  She
kissed his ring and finished by saying,” and I promise to do the same.”

 

“I love you and I promise” Neil answered and kissed the top of her head.

 

They lay together wishing the ride would go more slowly but soon they were in El Pano and getting off the train.

 

Neil was the first to notice Jeb had not come alone.  David had come too.  He found this odd but hoped no trouble would
come of it.

 

“Hey Doc!”  Hollered Jeb.  “How was your trip?  I asked the preacher to come along when I heard yea had supplies
waiting.”

 

“Thank you Jeb.  The trip was fine.” Answered Neil.  While shaking his friend’s hand he felt Christy give his arm a
squeeze.  “Reverend, I’m beholding.” And he shook David’s hand too.

 

“Think nothing of it.” He answered “Let’s get to your things so you can make it to Low Gap before dark.”

 

Neil showed the men where the things from Asheville were and while they loaded the wagon he grabbed Christy’s hand
and went looking for his medical supplies.  He never packed his medical “bag”.  Not ever.  This time was no different.  The
saddlebags were not out of place in El Pano but had drawn stares in Asheville.  Especially when they went to the dance
at church just last night.  His thought was broken as Christy squeezed his hand more tightly when they found the crates
at the post office he reluctantly let go of Christy’s hand.  Using the pry bar on the wall he popped open the lids and
searched for the things he thought he’d need.  All the jars had their chemical names on them and Neil pulled out a
pencil.  On one bottle he wrote aspirin. Turning to Christy he said,  “In case any one shows up needing medicine you
know how to mix this and you know not to give them too much.  This is the only one you’ll need.  The rest can stay in the
crates till I get back.  Just hammer them shut after you take it out at home.  Promise me.”

 

Christy was surprised at the look in Neil’s eyes.  It was a cross between confidence and concern.  His request for a
promise was more of an order than anything else.

 

“I promise.”

 

“Good. Come on.” And he grabbed her hand and gave it a squeeze.  As they left the post office area of the depot Neil
hollered to Jeb and David that there were more crates inside.  He turned to his wife and looked deeply into her eyes.  In a
whisper he said, “I love you and I’ll be back as soon as I can.  Don’t you worry about me.  And don’t forget to stay at the
mission ok?”  And then he kissed her forehead.

 

“I’ll be home when you get back.  Don’t forget your promise” as she twisted his ring “I love you.  Stay safe and give Miss
Alice my love.” And she accepted another kiss on her forehead.

 

Soon Neil was on his horse, waving goodbye and hollering thanks to Jeb and David.

 

As the two men struggled with the crates Christy followed slowly behind.  She was deep in thought and unaware of her
surroundings.  Neil’s mind was racing and mile a minute as he swung his horse around and raced back to the platform.
No one seemed to notice him as he took the long strides to reach his wife.  He touched her arm and their eyes met as
she turned around.  He took her face into his two hands and kissed her with as much authority as he had the day he
declared his love for her.  When he finally let her go he noticed her eyes were filled with tears and love.  She in turn
grabbed his face and kissed him back.  This is much better than a slap he thought but soon the kiss ended and
simultaneously they whispered, “I love you.”  And a moment later Neil was off at a full gallop trying his best not to look
back.  Christy watched him with a tear rolling down her cheek.

 

The ride home was quiet.  Jeb hummed to make noise while David mentally reviewed his sermon from earlier in the day.
Christy’s thoughts were with Neil.  Soon they were at her cabin.  Jeb and David unloaded the wagon and Christy noticed
a basket on the table.  “Opal sent that over for you and the Doc.  Should be enough to keep you eating for a week with
out the doc around.”  Offered Jeb as he put down the last crate of supplies.  “We put the trunks up in your room.  If you
need anything else before the doc gets back you just come over or tell one of my children.  I’ll be by every few days to
check on yea otherwise.”

 

“Thank you both.”  Christy said as she extended her hand. “I’m beholdin.”

 

“Not a problem.  I’ll see you tomorrow at school.  Good night Jeb.” And soon David was off toward the mission.

 

Jeb hopped up in the wagon and was off too.  Finally Christy was alone and eager to unpack.  First she unloaded the
aspirin and put it in its place in Neil’s laboratory.  She noticed there was no room to spare for the supplies so she looked
around the cabin and decided it was time to rearrange the furniture.  She thought using the crates, as tables would work
well, so once everything was too her liking she went to the blanket box and removed some old quilts.  She covered each
crate and decorated them with lanterns and books and things around the house.  Suddenly she realized she hadn’t eaten
since breakfast and found a sandwich in the basket.  Sitting in her favorite rocker she began to eat.  Before she knew
what happened the clock was chiming 6 and the sun was peaking out…. Oh no it’s Monday!  School!

Chapter seven


 

The school week passed relatively quietly.  Christy found the peace of being alone wonderful for preparing lessons.  She
had finished redecorating Neil’s cabin and found comfort in having some of her touches around the place.  She cringed
every time she saw the lace curtains.  After school Monday she unpacked their trunks.  When she got to the gifts for
their friends in Neil’s trunk she stopped.  They may as well stay here she until I can wrap them she thought.  So she
unpacked the basket from Opal and noticed Jeb was right. Without Neil to eat some of this it would take her a week or
more to finish the food.  ON Tuesday after school she walked over to the McHones to return the basket and went to the
Allen’s to ask Mary for sewing lessons.  Christy was taken aback by the twinkle in Mary’s eyes.  They arranged to meet
after school at the MacNeil cabin until Neil returned and then finish them at Mary’s after school.  So every day that week
they met and by Friday all of the pieces were cut and pinned and ready for sewing.

 

Even though the week passed rather quickly the evenings were the worse.  Christy ached for her husband to return
home.  She knew that Saturday would be the hardest.  Without school or church to break up the day she was at a loss
as to how to keep her mind off her husband.  As promised each time she thought of him she would twist her ring and say
a prayer.  Soon, she thought he’d be home.

 

Neil himself was busier than he expected.  He wasn’t surprised to find scarlet fever when he arrived in Low Gap.  Dr.
Davis and Alice had quarantined an area around the school.  Desks and chairs were outside and there were nearly twenty
patients on the floor.  Within the week they would have to take over the barn too.  One of Neil’s first tasks was to
organize some of the men to clean out the stables and air out the building. Better to get it ready and not use it then to
use it a mess.

 

The old hay was removed and the ground and stalls were sprayed with a bleaching solution Neil made.  Then they burned
sulfur for a day and aired it out for two.  While this was going on Neil got the men to build low rope beds to keep the
patients off the floor.  Finally on Friday they filled the barn with clean fresh hay, a foot deep all around.  In between all of
the barn preparation Neil rotated with Alice and Dr. Davis in patient care.  It was Alice’s idea to ride into the mountain
looking for patients.  Neil was astonished at the number of people Alice convinced to come out of the mountains.  All
were in various stages of illness.  She then convinced the owner of the closest farm to allow the families of those who
were ill to camp on his property so they could be close to their kin and so that the doctors could catch any new cases
early.  By Saturday evening they had pretty much gotten into a routine.  No one knew how long they’d be needed and all
were lost in thought over dinner that night.

 

Alice for the first time noticed that Neil was wearing a wedding band.  “ Is thy ring so uncomfortable that thee is willing to
loose thy finger over it?” she asked.

 

Neil smiled.  “No.  I was just thinking of home.”

“Ah I am hopeful we will be heading home shortly.”  Alice could see this thought comforted Neil.  “Perhaps thee would find
more comfort in a phone call tomorrow, just after services?”

 

“Yes.” Neil replied.” I suppose that would help.”

 

That evening neither MacNeill slept well.  Christy did find it easier to sleep on Neil’s side of the bed and Neil found
comfort in holding the handkerchief Christy had hidden in his medical bag.  CHM was embroidered in the corner.  His last
thought was how silly this must all seem to anyone looking at him.

 

As everyone filed out the church they heard the phone ring in the mission house.  It was a race to the phone with Ruby
Mae winning.

 

“Hullo! Yes Miz Alice. He’s here.  Boy we miss yea.  When yea comin home… Yes um… Ok I will bye Miz Alice. 
Reverend Miz Alice wants to talk to yea.”

 

“Hello Alice. How are things there?… Oh my, of course we’ll pray…. No, no signs of it here and everyone seems to have
come out for services today…. Yes I’ll check around…. Yes she’s right here hold on.  Christy Miss Alice wants to speak
with you.”

 

“Hello Miss Alice. What’s happening there?”

 

“Christy, it is scarlet fever.” Christy gasped.  “Neil, Dr Davis and I are all fine but we  called to check on things there.  The
fever has spread pretty far and I fear it will hit our mountains soon.”

 

“I haven’t heard anything, should we send some of the men out to the farther cabins?”

 

“Yes, that would be a fine idea.  Someone here is anxious for a word with thee, hold on child.”

 

Neil practically tore the phone from Alice’s hand in his eagerness to talk with his wife.

 

“Christy?  Are you there?  It’s me Neil.”

 

Christy laughed a little thinking to herself, now who else would it be.

 

“I know Neil.  Alice says its scarlet fever.  Please be careful.”

 

“Christy, are you well?  I’ve twisted my finger near off thinking about you.”

 

“I’m fine.  Jeb stops by every night after dinner and checks on things.  How long do you think you and Miss Alice will be
there?”

 

 

Neil’s heart sank.  “At least a week maybe two.”  He could hear Christy’s heart break too.  “Stay at the mission Thursday
night and I’ll call you again.  I miss you love!”

 

Christy swallowed hard, fighting the tears. ”Me too.” She managed to say before the tears started.

 

“Listen love, get the house ready for Christmas.  It will be the best one I’ve had in a long time.  Don’t worry yourself about
us.  We’re fine here.  You just take care of yourself I want nothing to happen to you whilst I’m gone.  I want you to rest
too.”

 

“Ok, I will.  You stay as long as you need to.  I’ve already rearranged the furniture and the longer you’re gone the more of
your things can be moved to the barn.”

 

Neil finally laughed.  “Alright then I’ll call Thursday sometime after school.  Plan to stay at the mission.”

 

“I will I promise. I love you.”

 

“I love you too.  Listen Alice wants to speak with you again.  I’ll be home as soon as I can. I love you.” And he was gone.

 

Christy tried hard to focus on what Miss Alice was saying… “ And when we call Thursday thee can tell us if the fever has
gotten that far.  Pray for us Christy and we’ll be home soon.”

 

“Yes Miss Alice.  Would you like to speak with David?”

 

“Yes Please”

 

“Miss Alice…” said David.  “Yes…  Thursday we’ll have the information for you than … yes I’ll make sure she stays the
night… No it is no trouble… Yes we will keep you in our prayers.  God’s speed Miss Alice.  Goodbye.”

 

Christy sat dazed for a few minutes.  She hadn’t realized Neil wouldn’t be back before Christmas.  No matter how lonely
she was however she resolved that she had it easier than Neil.  She had their home, their friends, routing and life
everyday.  He was facing an uncertain illness and death.  She took a deep breath and blew out all of the self-pity in the
heart.  She was ready to tackle the next few days by focusing on Thursday.

 

Several men volunteered to check the remote cabins and as the week began each man returned a feeling of relief fell over
the community.  There appeared to be no signs of illness.

 

Christy took her husband’s advice and focused on Christmas.  Each day her children made an ornament.  The Holts said
they would donate a tree just before Christmas and set it up so that the children could decorate it for Christmas Eve
services.

 

Jeb stopped by daily even as Christy protested.  She began looking forward to their brief visits and found them refreshing. 
She had finished the curtains and really liked the way the looked.  She wrapped them up and put them in her trunk and
realized she hadn’t begun wrapping her gifts for the children.  She carefully wrapped each gift when she noticed gifts at
the bottom of Neil’s trunk.  “For me?” she thought.  “I’ve only got curtains.”  Suddenly she panicked. “What do I get for
him?  He has so many things for me.”  She tossed most of the evening worrying.  The next morning she packed a valise. 
It was Thursday and Neil would be calling after school.  Concentrating was difficult but soon school was over and she was
in the mission house unpacking her clothes.

 

“Ruby Mae?  May I help you with dinner?”  Asked Christy as she entered the kitchen.

 

“No Miz Christy.  I got everything almost ready.  Maybe yea could set the table.”

 

“Sure.”  Christy said a little nervous as to what dinner might be.  Soon Ruby Mae, David and Christy were eating dinner. 
The meal was quite pleasant.  Ruby Mae made a stuffed chicken and David shared the news from Ida’s latest letter.

 

Christy was washing dishes when the phone rang.

 

“Hello Cutter Gap Mission” Answered David.  “Hello Miss Alice…. Yes she’s here…that’s wonderful…. No.  There are no
signs of illness here… Yes one moment.  Christy…”

 

Christy was eager to take the phone.  “Hello Miss Alice. How are things?”

 

“Better.  We’ve only had three new cases today.  Would thee like to speak with thy husband?”  Miss Alice could feel
Christy blush through the phone.

 

“Hello Christy, love. How are you?”

 

“Fine Neil.  When will you be home?”

 

Neil laughed, “Nothing like getting to the point.  I’ll probably be another week love.  Do you think you can wait that long?”

 

“I suppose.” She answered with tears in her eyes.

 

“What are you doing with yourself?”

 

“We’re decorating the school for Christmas.  I wrapped the things we brought back and I finished redecorating the cabin.”

 

Neil laughed again. ”Do I have anything left in the cabin or will I be living in the barn when I get back?”

 

Christy now laughed “Not hardly”

 

“Alright, well, we’d better let Alice and David talk again.  I promise we’ll call again Sunday.  I love you.

 

“I love you.  Stay well” Christy said with tears in her heart.

 

Alice and David finished the call but Christy didn’t hear anything more.  “I’ll be upstairs correcting papers if you need me
Ruby Mae.”

 

“Yes um miz Christy.”

 

Christy felt a little guilty about not staying and visiting with Ruby Mae and David.  She was suddenly tired and just wanted
to be alone.  Her heart and body ached for her husband.  Talking with him only made the ache more intense.

 

“Christy?” asked David interrupting her thoughts.  “May I come in?”

 

“Certainly” she answered.

 

“Is everything alright?  I know you miss your husband but is there anything else?”  It pained him to refer to the doctor as
her husband but as each day, and encounter, passed the grief was easing.  It was at times like this, however, that broke
his heart.  Had Christy married him she wouldn’t be alone.  He promised to be her friend and right now that was what she
needed.

 

“No.  Really.  I’m fine.  I’ve just got a lot of papers to correct by the end of the year.”

 

“All right then, I’ll see you in the morning.”

 

“David?  Thank you.  You’ve been wonderful.  I don’t know how I would have made it through the last few days without you
and Ruby Mae.”

 

“No problem.  If you need anything just let us know.”

 

“Alright.”

 

Sleep was difficult that evening for Christy and David.  She yearned for her husband and just couldn’t get comfortable in
her old bed.  David on the other hand found it difficult to sleep with Christy so close.

 

After school the next day Christy went home.  She looked forward to sleeping in her own bed.  She hadn’t noticed
anything different until she got to her front door.  It was slightly open.  Was someone ill?  She thought as she
entered.  Suddenly some one hit her in the head and everything went black.

Chapter eight


Jeb thought it odd to see Hiram Taylor in this area.  Usually he kept to the other side of El Pano.  Jeb hadn’t even
recognized Hiram at first.  It had been since before he married Fairlight since he’d seen him.  He was still pondering why
Hiram was around when he got to the MacNeill cabin.  He stood in the doorway shocked at what he saw.

 

David was standing on the porch when Jeb and John Spencer came galloping up with the wagon.  They were flying in
comparison to how they normally would have approached the mission.

 

“What’s wrong?” Hollered David.

 

“It’s Miz Christy.  She’s hurt bad!”  Answered Jeb.  “I sent Zady to get Opal but I’m fearen she needs a doctor.”

 

“What happened?”  Asked David as they carried Christy up to her old room.

 

“I got to the cabin like usual and found her on the floor.  There was a lot of blood.  I think Hiram Taylor did it.  I had seen
him in the cove about a half hour earlier.” Answered Jeb.

 

“Hiram?  I never heard of Hiram.”  Asked David as they settled Christy into bed.

 

“He’s Birds Eye’s cousin.  Not as mean as Birds Eye. Least he didn’t used to be but a moody cuss just the same.”
Answered Jeb.  “Tain’t seen him since before I married Fairlight.”

 

“How is she?” said Opal as she entered the room.  “Zady says she’s bleeding and not awake.”

 

“I think the bleeding stopped but she hasn’t woke up yet”.  Offered Jeb.

 

Opal looked at the back of Christy’s head.  Sure enough she had a cut and pump knot the size of a lemon.  Christy
groaned as they laid her back down.

 

“Reverend you gots to call Low Gap.  I don’t know nothing about how to fix heads.”  Announced Opal.  “I’ll change her
clothes if yea can get one of Miz Alice’s clean nightgowns.  I can tell the doctor or Miz Alice if I find anything else.”

 

Soon everyone was doing something.  David was trying to get the operator in El Pano to get the operator in Low Gap to
get the mission.  Jeb had gotten the gown and Zady and Ruby Mae were helping Opal change Christy’s clothes.  Opal
noticed no other injuries and was careful with her patient.  With each movement Christy groaned some more.

 

“Hello Low Gap Mission, Dr Davis speaking”

 

“Doctor thank goodness.  This is Reverend Grantland in Cutter Gap.  We’ve got a problem here.  Mrs. MacNeill’s been
hurt.  All we have is Opal McHone and her remedies.  Jeb found Mrs. MacNeill unconscious on the floor of her cabin.  He
said there was blood but that’s all we know.

 

“Has anyone found where the blood came from?”

 

“Yes, Opal.  Hold on a moment.”  Answered David frantically.

 

“Hello!  This is Opal McHone!  Miz Christy has large pump knot on the back a head and a cut ‘bout as long as the tip a
my finger.  Tizent bleeden no more.  I tied her hair way from it and it’s all scabby like.”

 

“Opal, this is Dr. Davis.  Has she woke up any since you been with her?”  He asked carefully, trying not to identify the
patient for fear Neil or Alice would hear.

 

“She ain’t woked up but she be groanen whens we moved her to change her clothes.  Tain’t seen no other places bleeden
doc.”

 

“That’s good Opal.  Put the reverend on for me please and thank you.  You did a fine job.”

 

“Yes Doctor.” Said reverend Grantland.

 

The reverend wrote frantically as the doctor told him what to do.  When they were done Dr. Davis promised to call back in
two hours to see how the patient was doing.  He and David agreed to refer to the patient as Bob Allen so as not to
concern the others.  Neither wanted to keep the news of Christy’s injury a secret but there was no use upsetting them
until they knew more.

 

Outside they mixed together the ingredients the doctor suggested.  The smell was horrible but they dipped a rag into the
mixture and put it into a mason jar.  It was this jar they took to Christy’s room.  David volunteered to try to wake Christy
by opening the jar in front of her nose.  Once done Christy’s eyes flew open and she began tearing.  David than closed
the jar and opened the window.  Everyone was eager to enter the room, overwhelming Christy with questions.

 

Christy never saw who hit her.  She had no other pain except her head.  She agreed Neil and Alice needn’t be told of
what happened.  She agreed to let Dr. Davis treat her over the phone as long as he was comfortable with that.  She never
heard of Hiram Taylor and didn’t know any reason why he would come to the cabin.  She agreed to stay at the mission.

 

After two hours the phone rang.  Dr. Davis was relieved that they were able to awaken Christy.  He gave them instructions
on caring for a concussion.  He would call again in the morning after Alice and Neil left.  If anything happened however
they were to call immediately.

 

They took turns that evening checking on Christy, waking her every two hours, making sure she didn’t get sick.  In the
morning when Dr. Davis called he was glad to hear all was better.  Neil and Alice would call Sunday as if nothing
happened and he would leave it to Christy to tell her husband what happened.

 

The only thing Christy had requested was to speak with Birds Eye immediately.  Everyone thought this odd but Jeb
agreed to find him.  It wasn’t difficult either.  Once Birds Eye had heard what had happened from Hiram, he hurried to the
mission.  He was sitting on the steps as Jeb was leaving to look for him.

 

“Mr. Taylor. I’d like a word with you” said Christy as he entered her room.

 

“Yes ma’am. I figured you would.”

 

“Are you and your cousin close?  Do you know why he did this?”

 

“No ma’am.  I can’ts stan em.  I knows wees kin but I’z got no use for em.  He lef the cove years ago for a minen job but
got hurt bad.  Since then he’s been taken medicine regular.  Morphine I’z thinks it’s called.  That’s whys he be at your
cabin.  He heard we had a doctor and thought he’d could take hiz.  Yea scared em when yea came in and he knocked
yea out.  He didn mean ta hurt yea.”

 

“Mr. Taylor.  I trust you to tell me the truth.  We’ve never lied to each other have we?”

 

“No ma’am.”

 

“Then I need you to tell me why I should trust your cousin not to come back to my home and try to steal from me again.”

 

“Miz Christy.  Yea took care a my Lundy better thans his own momma.  I’m beholdin to yea.  I sent my cousin to
Knoxville and told him ifen I’z ever heerd he be closer to the cove thans that I’d track em myself and kills em.  I tain’t got
much use for most folk Miz Christy but you and Miz Alice and even the preacher have dones good by me and my boy.  I
knowd Doc MacNeil all my life and trust hiz word as I trust myz own.  He wouldn like what happen to yea and I don’ts
neither.  I’llz look after yea as if en yea waz a Taylor.  Only better.  Yea have my word.”

 

“Mr. Taylor.  Like I said I trust you.  But I’ll ask you again will my family and I be safe or do I need to move back to
Asheville.”  There thought Christy I can’t be any plainer.

 

“No ma’am.  Yea’ll be safe and the moment yea taint I’ll lets yea know.”

 

“Thank you Mr. Taylor.  David!  Please come in… David please have Mr. Taylor take whatever flour or lard or fixings he
might be needing I’m beholding to you Birds Eye and What is mine is yours.”

 

“Thank yea ma’am.”  And Birds Eye left glaring at the men and refusing to take Miz Christy’s kindness.  He knew no
matter how friendly she was with the Allens, she was a good woman.  He would protector her with his life if need be.  As
if the young girl were his own momma.

 

On Sunday Neil called.  Christy hadn’t gone to services, which had started late, and she was the only one at the mission.

 

“Hello, Cutter Gap Mission. Christy MacNeil speaking.”

 

“Love!”  Neil’s heart flew.  He feared Grantland would answer.  “Oh, I’ve missed you.  How are you?”

 

“Fine.  Please tell me you’ll be home soon.”

 

“We’ve no new cases.  By this time next week we’ll be together as long as things hold out.  How are things there?”

 

“Uneventful I’d say.”  Christy hoped Neil wouldn’t detect the little lie.  “I’ve decided to stay at the mission till you get
home.  I’ve been lonesome for you and hoped Ruby Mae’s chattering would distract me.”  This wasn’t a lie and she knew
Neil would believe it.  “I hope you’re resting Neil, I’ve got many things planned for when you return home.”

 

“I hope my list isn’t too long.”  Answered Neil with a laugh.

 

“No.  There’s really only one thing on it love, to hold me.  I can’t believe how much I ache for you.  Your touch, your smile,
your muddy boots on the porch.”  

 

Neil was surprised by these last comments.  She usually wasn’t so forward on the phone.  “Are you alone Christy?”
asked Neil concerned.

 

“I’ve been listening to David practice his sermon for days.  So I decided to miss services and wait for your call.”  Christy
answered.

 

“All right love.  Alice wants to talk with you.  I love you and I’ll be home soon.  Since you’re staying at the mission I’ll try
to call more often.”

 

“I love you too Neil.  Hurry home.”

 

Soon Miss Alice was talking to Christy.  Neil didn’t pay much attention to their conversation.  He sat wrapped in his own
emptiness.  Without warning Alice said something that sent fear through him.

 

“No.  I don’t know a Hiram Taylor.  Why?”

 

“Hiram Taylor!” Screamed Neil grabbing the phone from Alice.

 

“Christy what happened?  Did you see him?  Did he come by the cabin?  Did he hurt you?  Blast woman tell me.  What
do you know of Hiram Taylor?"

 

Christy was scared.  In all the time she had known Neil she had never heard such anger and fear in his voice.

 

“Answer me woman or so help me I’ll be there so fast your head will spin.”

 

“Neil, please, calm down.  I’ll tell you everything if you promise to keep calm and quiet.”

 

“No Christy.  You know nothing of Hiram.  Now tell me what is going on.”

 

“Not when you’re like this I won’t.  Please calm down.  Take a deep breath and let me speak.”

 

“Alright. I’ll try but make it quick.”

 

“Friday I got to the cabin.  The door was open.  I entered, looking for a patient who didn’t know you were gone, when
suddenly I was hit over the head.  When I came to I was at the mission.  Jeb found me when he came by and brought me
here.  David called Low Gap and spoke with Dr. Davis.  No one has let me sleep more than two hours since Friday.  I
haven’t been sick or dizzy and I’m sitting in a chair next to the phone.  Birds Eye Taylor is sitting on the porch in case I
need anything.  Opal, Tom, Jeb and all of their children have been here taking care of me.  I am fine, really.  I’ve spoken
with Dr. Davis twice yesterday and I suspect I’ll talk to him today too.  Really darling, I’ll be fine until you get home. 
David already promised to take over the classes tomorrow and Tuesday.  Please love, don’t worry.  Don’t be angry.” 
Christy begged Neil, hoping he would truly believe she was alright.

 

“Christy, you just don’t know how dangerous Hiram can be.”

 

“Neil,” Christy interrupted,” I’ve spoken with Birds Eye. He told me all about Hiram.  I know he came looking for
Morphine.  Jeb, Tom and Uncle Bogg went over to our cabin to see what happened.  They found the lock on your
laboratory broken and the morphine missing.  Birds Eye promised I’d be safe and Jeb says he’s made no attempt to
conceal the fact that he’s on mission property to protect me.  I believe he’d kill Hiram before he’d let me be hurt again.  I
don’t know how much morphine you had on your shelf but I know he didn’t get into your crates.”

 

“How do you know that if you weren’t there?”

 

“I’ve been using them as tables.  I covered them with blankets and put lanterns and photos and books on them.  Even Jeb
looked twice.  Honest darling, I’m safe until you get here.  I can see Birds Eye sitting on the porch right now.”

 

“I’m still coming home.”

 

“No.  Not until you’re done there.  I’m fine.  If you’d like I’ll call Birds Eye.  You can talk to him yourself.”

 

“Yes.  I would.  Get him.”  Neil, scared and aggravated with the situation, ordered his wife.

 

“Excuse me?”

 

“I’m sorry love…  Yes, please get Birds Eye so I may have a word with him.”

 

“Certainly.”

 

Christy listened carefully while Birds Eye talked to her husband.  She couldn’t make much out though since it seemed
Neil did all of the talking.  When they were done Birds Eye returned the phone, nodded a good bye and resumed his seat
on the porch.

 

“Neil?”  Christy said hesitantly.

 

“All right Christy, you win.  I’ll be home when this illness will allow.”

 

“And you’ll bring home Miss Alice and Dr. Davis?”

 

“Yes.  I won’t leave them to cover for me.  However, I will be calling you twice a day and you aren’t to go anywhere, not
even the outhouse without a male escort.  Going with Ruby Mae or Opal won’t do.  Do you understand?”

 

“Yes.  But really…”

 

“No.  I’m not joking here Christy.  If I find out you didn’t do this I’ll throttle you myself.  He’s far more dangerous than you
realize. Promise me.”  Neil demanded.

 

“I promise.”

 

“I’ll call again tonight.  I love you and I need you safe.”  Neil emphasized the word need.  She knew he’d never forgive
himself if she were hurt or worse.

 

“I love you and I can’t wait for you to call tonight.  Like I said before, I ache for you Neil.”

 

Neil actually blushed hearing such tenderness from his wife.  “All right, I’ll talk with you tonight.  Be safe.”

 

And with that they hung up.

Chapter nine


True to their promises Neil called twice a day and Christy never left the mission without one of the men.  She felt
self-conscious but was relieved.

 

By Tuesday Neil announced he and Alice would be home Thursday, Friday the latest.

 

Christy feared what her cabin looked like.  She got Birds Eye, Jeb and David to take her there.  Once inside, with
Birdseye on the porch, she and David started cleaning.  Christy cleaned the blood and David straightened the rest. 
Jeb fixed the door to the laboratory and Christy finished up by packing a few things to take back to the mission. 
Fresh clothes would make her feel better.

 

They made it back to the mission before Neil called but Christy still told him what they had done.  Neil insisted on
talking with David and Jeb but again ended his conversation with Christy.  He would be home Thursday, he said,
even if he had to get his friend Harriett to fly him.  Christy laughed.  “Well I don’t know if she’d bring MONK to the
mission.”  For the first time since he had heard about Hiram Taylor Neil laughed.

 

“I suppose you’re right.  Alice and I will be at the mission tomorrow.  I love you.”

 

“And I love you.”

 

Thursday was bright and fresh, there was a crispness that made the day feel new.  Christy stretched out while still
under the covers.  Neil will be home today she thought.  Her heart nearly jumped out of her chest.  She took extra
care dressing and fixing her hair so her wound wouldn’t be noticed.  She also decided to make her husband’s
favorite cookies.  Her mind raced as she busied herself baking.  How she missed her husband.  Without thinking
about it she twisted her wedding ring and continued baking

 

It was nearly noon when the doctors and Miss Alice arrived in El Pano.  

 

“Do stay for lunch, we have plenty.”  Said Mrs. Davis hoping they would not take her up on her offer.  She too
missed her husband and was eager to be alone with him.

 

“Thank you but I think we best get back to the mission.  I’ve got a patient to check on.”  Answered Neil. 

 

Alice and Dr. Davis laughed.  “I’ll explain later dear.”  Dr. Davis said to his wife.  “Thank you both. I don’t think I
could have managed without you.”

 

“Goodbye doctor.”  Said Alice as she looked at Dr MacNeill.

 

“Goodbye Davis” Neil hollered over his shoulder impatiently waiting for Alice.

 

The seven miles to the mission never seemed so long to Neil.  He soon realized that around the next bend was the
open field before the mission church.  He wondered if his horse was up to a full gallop across the field.

 

After Christy took the last batch of cookies out of the oven she decided to take the cooled ones over to the
students.  They should just about be done with lunch and these would be a nice surprise.  As she got to the school
she noticed two mounted figures emerging from the woods.  She handed the plate to John Spencer and headed
toward the figures.  Birds Eye followed her two steps behind.

 

Seeing Christy was more then Neil could bear.  He urged his horse forward.  He didn’t wait for the horse to stop, he
just jumped off it’s back and scooped his wife in his arms.  He took a deep breath smelling everything about her. 
Burying his face into her neck he let his tears flow.  All the emotion of the last few weeks came out. The loneliness
and isolation of the separation. The stress of caring for so many ill and dieing. The fear that Christy was hurt more
than she had said.  All of this energy came out in his embrace.  He vowed not to let her go, not ever.

 

Christy was lost in Neil’s embrace.  She had run about 100 feet before he scooped her up.  Now she was dizzy. 
Not from the head blow, but from her love for her husband.  His powerful arms held her as if he were holding onto
life itself.  She could feel his tears on her neck and her own eyes swelled.  She couldn’t match his bear hug but she
clung to him with more strength than she ever could have imagined.  She was only aware of her husband.  The
tightness of his embrace.  The way his face scratched her cheek.

 

When Neil finally let her go it was only to kiss her and kiss her he did.  Neither realized or remembered the children
in the playground or Alice, David and Birds Eye near by.

 

“Mrs. MacNeill.  It is so good to see thee is feeling better.”  Miss Alice said loudly hoping to break into their reunion
politely.

 

Christy did hear Alice and turned red with embarrassment as she finally broke from Neil’s embrace.  Neither took
their eyes from the other.  Christy’s eyes were tired, Neil thought but so full of desire he wanted to scoop her up
again and race to their home.

 

“Let’s get back to class children and leave the MacNeil’s alone.  It’s good to have you back Miss Alice.”

 

“I have missed thee too Reverend.”  David ushered the children into the school and Alice took both horses into the
stable.  “Good day Mr. Taylor.”

 

“Ma’am.”

 

“Birds Eye.”  Neil finally said taking his wife’s hand tightly and walking toward his wife’s protector.  “I’m beholden. 
If there’s anything, anything at all I can do for you please let me know.”

 

Birds Eye nodded.  As he was about to walk away he turned to Christy. “ I’z didn furget my promise.  You’ll be
safe, all ways.”

 

Christy kissed his cheek and said “Thank you. Mr. Taylor.”

 

Birds Eye didn’t know what to think.  He just nodded and walked away.

 

“Let me see you.”  Said Neil twirling and hugging his wife.  “You are a sight for these tired eyes.”  Christy could only
hug her husband.

 

“I nearly didn’t recognize you.” She said touching her husbands face.

 

Neil laughed.  “Guess I’d better get cleaned up. Huh?”

 

“When we get home.  For now I want to get back to your “to do” list.”  And again she kissed her husband.  This
time there was less urgency and more tenderness.  Neil enjoyed her touch and wished even more than ever that he
were home with her and not on the school grounds.  Suddenly, in the middle of their kiss, Neil’s stomach grumbled
causing both of them to laugh.

 

“I guess even that will have to wait.  Come on I’ve got some food ready and a surprise too.”  Christy replied to his
stomach.

 

“Yum.  I can’t wait.”  Neil replied as he scooped his wife up over his shoulder like a sack of grain and walked to the
mission house.  Both were laughing as they entered the kitchen and he put her down with a plop into a chair.

 

“Boy you’ve been busy today.”  Observed Neil as he scanned the mess in the kitchen.  He gently pushed her back
into the chair  “No lunch until I examine you.  Now show me your head or I’ll mess your hair myself.”

 

“Ok.”  She moved her hair and repined it away from the wound.  She sat and waited impatiently for the doctor to
finish his exam.  He checked the cut and felt her skull.  He then looked into her eyes, with professionalism not love,
causing her to smile.  He then twinkled his eyes and kissed her nose.  

 

“Very good. Had I been here you could have used a stitch or two and you will have a small bald spot but you were
right doctor, you should be fine.

 

“Thank you doctor.  Now let me see your finger.”  Upon close examination Christy noticed the skin surrounding his
wedding band was starting to form a callus from all of the apparent twisting.  She tenderly kissed his ring finger and
said, “I see you’ve been playing with your ring sir.  I hope it has not become too irritate.  Maybe some lunch will
make it feel better.”  Neil laughed at his wife’s silliness.

 

She set out three plates and the food along with some corn bread and apple butter.  She put out a kettle of tea and
several different plates of cookies.  When Alice and Neil saw all of the food they smiled like they shared a great
secret.  They knew it was Christy’s way of expressing her love but Neil couldn’t resist a playful tease.  “I hope
you’re hungry Alice.  I think she’s meaning to fatten us up like the Christmas goose.”

 

All three of them laughed and ate their fill.  Christy had packed her things and so she was able to sit and visit with
Alice for the afternoon.  It had been more than a month since they had visited, before Thanksgiving.  Neil had told
Alice about the trip but she loved to hear Christy’s point of view.  When school ended Neil took the opportunity to
thank David for taking care of Christy.  The conversation was strained but not difficult.  Miss Alice insisted the
MacNeills take a basket of food home with them.  As they left Christy gave David a hug. He told her he’d finish the
week and that he’d see them Sunday.  Neil insisted Christy ride Duke and he walked along side.

 

When they got to the cabin Neil stood at the threshold amazed.  It looked bigger and Christy was right.  You
wouldn’t know the crates weren’t tables.  He started a fire in the stove and fire place.  He then took Duke to the
barn for the night.  Christy, meanwhile, unpacked the basket and set all of the pots to boil water.  She then dragged
the tub to the front of the fireplace and hung a blanket from the ceiling making a private bath area that would be
warm on such a brisk evening.  She quickly ran upstairs and got her mirror and scissors for Neil to shave inside.  She
was setting up his shaving things at the table when he returned from the barn.

 

“Are you saying you don’t like my beard?”

 

“I can do without visions of kissing Birds Eye Taylor tonight.”

 

“And the bath?”

 

“How long has it been darling? Really?”

 

Neil brought in water from outside and Christy added the boiling water.  While the water-cooled Neil shaved. 
Christy put more water on the stove just in case.  Soon Neil was in the tub scrubbing his toes.

 

“Would you like me to do your hair Neil?”

 

“Hmmm a beautiful woman running her fingers through my hair?  Yes that would be wonderful.”

 

Christy stirred the fire to make the “room” warmer.  She grabbed extra towels and put them next to the tub.  She
pulled up a chair and began washing his hair.  Both enjoyed the intimacy. After what seemed like hours Neil finally
said, “The tub water is getting cold love.  Could you rinse me off and warm me up?”

 

“Certainly. This is to rinse you off.” She said as she poured water over his head.  “And this is to warm you up.” She
said handing him a towel and helping him out of the tub.  She lovingly wrapped him in the oversized towel and
encouraged him to sit in her chair.  She rubbed his hair with a towel and combed it out.  She took her scissors and
trimmed his hair.  When she was done she proudly sat on his lap and kissed him on the cheek.

 

“That’s better.”  She proclaimed.

 

“Not quite.”  He answered, lifting her and carrying her to their bed.

 

About an hour later Neil returned to the fireplace.  He added more heavy logs and got Alice’s basket of food.  He
then raced back upstairs to the warmth of his bed and his wife.

 

Hours later they fell asleep in each other’s arms.  Exhausted, neither tossed in their sleep.  In the middle of the night
Neil woke up.  The clock said 2:15 but he wasn’t sure it was accurate.  He was still hungry and went hunting for
some of the cookies and a mason jar of milk.  He was filling a bowl with cookies and lost in the memories of his
reunion with his wife when she let out a yell that went to his soul.

 

“NEIL!!!!!” She screamed as he bounded up the stairs three at a time.  He found her sitting up, shaking and yelling
his name over and over.  He took her by the arms and faced her so closely their noses almost touched.  

 

“I’m right here Christy. I’m right here.  Christy, love, I’m right here! I’m right here.  I’m right her love!”

 

Christy seemed to come out of her daze and see her husband.  Tears filled her eyes and she grabbed him so tightly
around his neck sobbing.

 

“Shhhh I’m here.”  Neil said over and over again.  It was almost 10 minutes before she was calm enough to tell him
about her dream.  It didn’t make sense.  Someone she didn’t know was chasing her and suddenly she was being
held by Birds Eye and felt safe but Neil was hurt and she couldn’t get to him.  She was then still running and
screaming for her husband and when she woke up and he wasn’t there she didn’t know if it were a dream or not. 
Neil held her and reassured her.  He stroked her hair and rubbed her back.  They had some cookies and milk. 
Finally he wrapped his arms around her until she fell asleep.

 

The next morning when they woke up they just stayed in bed.  Neil still didn’t want Christy out of the cabin alone
and he himself only left to take care of his horse.  They cleaned the cabin and decorated for Christmas.  Mostly they
enjoyed each other’s company.

 

That evening Christy’s nightmares returned.  This time it took less time to calm her fears because Neil refused to
leave her for even a moment.

 

All night he held her, sleeping very little himself.  He had no other way of healing this kind of anguish and it broke his
heart to be unable to ease her pain.  He spent much of that evening trying to figure out the meaning of her dream. 

Chapter ten


When dawn broke he went down to the kitchen and made breakfast for them.  Christy was surprised to have
breakfast in bed.  Neil looked very tired.  After breakfast Christy insisted her husband stay in bed.  She tucked him
in and kissed his forehead.  At first Neil felt ridiculous being put to bed like a child but he had to admit he enjoyed
the attention.

 

Christy went downstairs and cleaned the breakfast mess.  She then set water on the stove so she could do laundry. 
Neil wouldn’t want her to be outside but she would do what she could inside and later they could hang the wet
clothes outside.

 

Just as she was about to wring out the clothes there was a knock at the door.  Christy jumped at the break in the
silence.  She looked out the window and saw Zacharias Holt.

 

“Zach?” she asked as she cautiously opened the door.

 

“Miz Christy, is the doc here?”

 

“What is it Zach?” asked Neil pulling on his shirt as he came down the stairs.

 

“They found someone in the river.  Marshall wants yea to tell em ifen it was foul play.  I’m tah bring yea to em.”

 

“I’ll be ready in a minute Zach.  Christy get your coat, you’re coming too.”

 

“Neil?”

 

“It won’t be pretty but I’ll not leave yea here.”  Said Neil throwing on his coat as he left to saddle his horse.

 

Christy grabbed a sack and put some food into it.  She scanned the cabin and quickly separated the logs in the
fireplace.  She decided the clothes in the rinse tub would be fine until she could return and she made sure the pots
were off the stove before putting on her coat and grabbing her scarf.  She was on the porch just as Neil pulled Duke
up to the stair.  Christy road behind her husband and tightly wrapped her arms around his waist.  Neil squeezed her
hand as he urged his horse forward.

 

“It’ll be fine love.”

 

Christy hugged her husband tightly. “I don’t want to be anywhere else.”

 

Soon they were at the Holt farm.  A small crowd had gathered near the river.  Neil stopped the horse a few feet
away.  He helped Christy down and handed her the reigns when he got off.  “No need for you to see this.  Just stay
there with Duke and please don’t look at the remains.  It won’t be a sight I want you to see.”

 

Christy nodded and turned her back to the river.  She looked at the Holt land.  It didn’t look very different from any
of the other farms in the cove.  She noticed a rustling on the edge of the field where the trees started.  She stared at it
a while and noticed Birds Eye Taylor and some other men she didn’t know come from the woods.  Birds Eye
looked straight at her.  She smiled but he didn’t, all he did was nod his head in recognition.  The men followed Birds
Eye as they passed Christy and headed to the river.  It was then that Neil came over to Christy with Zach.

 

“I’d like you to go to the Holt cabin with Zach Christy.  I’m going to be longer then I thought.”  Christy just stared at
her husband.  “I think it’s Hiram Taylor but I can’t be sure.  I don’t want to examine his body with you so close.” 
Neil than whispered “Please go.  I’ll be along, I promise.”

 

Christy nodded and followed Zach to his home.  She arrived in time for lunch.

 

Rebecca Holt was an excellent cook and Christy truly enjoyed the meal.  She offered Rebecca the sack of food she
had brought for her and Neil but it was no use, Christy accepted the meal.  As they were cleaning up, the men
returned.  Christy noticed the sullen look on all of them.  Zach took all of the horses to the barn to take care of them
and the men filed quietly into the house.  Neil went to Christy who was standing in the corner by the sink.  He took
her hands and looked into her eyes.  “It was Hiram.” He whispered.  A tear of relief came to her eye as he hugged
him.

 

The men ate the lunch the women served them.  They discussed Hiram and how no one remembered him.  He’d left
so long ago and had become somewhat of a ghost story.  Neil said it appeared he took too much of the morphine he
had stolen and drowned in the river.  The Marshall accepted that as the cause of death and surrendered Hiram to
Birds Eye for a proper burial.  Neil never took his eyes off Christy.  He was trying to read her mind.

 

Christy busied herself while she listened.  When the men finished eating and everything was clean she walked over to
her husband and touched his shoulder.  She was ready to go home.  They mounted Duke and headed home.  Neil
interlaced the fingers of his free hand with Christy’s.  “We’ll be home soon.”

 

Christy sighed.  “Neil will you do a favor for me?”

 

“Anything.”

 

“Would you help me get the laundry done today?  I’d just started it when we left and if it doesn’t get done we’ll have
nothing to wear.”

 

Neil laughed.  “Of course, love.  I’ve been known to do some laundry in my day.”

 

Christy just rested her head on Neil’s back and closed her eyes.  She didn’t realize the stress she’d been under.

 

Back at the cabin Neil restarted the fires.  Christy started warming water and Neil took the “rinsed” clothes and
started wringing them out.  He strung rope in the house, moved some furniture and hung the clothes.  Christy
continued to wash and by working together the job was done in no time.  After emptying the tubs and moping the
floor Christy looked at her “beautiful home” and sunk into a chair.  Neil noticed her depression and tried to comfort
her.

 

“Had we hung them outside they never would have dried.  I’ll make the cabin warmer and they’ll dry faster.”  She
still looked unhappy.  “How about if I fix dinner and you tell me what you’re thinking.”

 

“Alright.  I was just thinking about how sad it was for Hiram to die.  Did he really die from the morphine?”

 

Neil cautiously looked at his wife.  “You had nothing to do with his death Christy.  You must know that.”

 

“Yes.  But..”

 

“Christy,” he said taking her hand.  “ He came here, he stole the medicine and to the best of my knowledge he took
too much causing disorientation and ultimately his drowning.  You are not responsible for his death Christy.”  Taking
hold of her shoulders he added, “Do you hear me?”

 

“Yes.” She replied fighting the tears.

 

Neil saw it was no use trying to convince her not to mourn Hiram.  He couldn’t fathom what was going on in her
mind.  She mourned him as if he were a dear friend yet Hiram had assaulted her and vandalized their home.  Once
she was allowed to grieve he would have to remember to ask her about the strength of forgiveness she possessed. 
He wrapped his arms around her and held her tightly.  That evening Christy’s nightmares ended.

 

In the morning they went to Sunday services.  Everyone was excited that Christmas was only 4 days away.  Christy
had nearly forgotten about Christmas.  She’d been so entranced by her husband’s return.  She didn’t pay attention
to David’s sermon.  She had spent nearly the entire service pondering what to give Neil for Christmas.  He seemed
to have so many things for her and she had only made the curtains.  And they were really for the cabin.  Neil’s gifts
were all she thought about after she returned to school.  Gifts and the Christmas Eve pageant that would replace
Christmas services. 

Chapter 11



On Christmas Eve all of the people in the cove gathered at the mission for an early afternoon dinner.  Everyone
brought something for sharing.  There was plenty to eat and everyone was enjoying the holiday.  Christy and Neil
had spent the last few days sharing secrets with the parent’s of the cove.  While the children were at school with
Christy, Neil road from house to house delivering their special gifts.  He convinced each family to leave the gift for
their child in a sock hanging by the fireplace to be found Christmas morning.  He assured everyone these gifts were
not from the mission barrels but from a loving teacher.  She even had things for each child not yet attending school,
lest they felt left out.

 

Soon everyone filed into the school for the pageant.  All of the furniture was rearranged and the Christmas tree was
decorated in the corner.  As each child performed their “act” Christy would watch the parents beam with pride. 
When the program was over Christy had a final surprise for everyone.  Their own peppermint sticks.  Not many
highlanders had seen or tasted the sticks before but everyone enjoyed them while they sang Christmas carols.

 

Christy was having a wonderful time and hadn’t noticed Neil whispering with Alice and David until he was finished. 
“What are you up to Doctor?” she said teasingly.

 

“Why nothing Mrs. MacNeill.  Why do you ask?” He answered with a secretive smile.

 

“No reason.”

 

“Well then shall we head home and celebrate our first Christmas?”  Neil asked.  His rough hand softly touched her
cheek then he reached for her left hand, raising it for a kiss he never let his eyes leave hers.  She was astonished how
quickly he could change the mood of the conversation with such small gestures.

 

“And what have you got in mind?” She teased as only a wife had the right to do.

 

“Ah my love.  Gifts come in many forms.”  Her husband responded while helping her on with her coat.  They said
their goodbyes to everyone.  There was still plenty of singing to be done that evening but miss Alice, David and Ruby
Mae were coming to the MacNeill’s for dinner the next day.

 

Christmas morning arrived early at the Macneill household for Christy.  She had decided to pamper her husband as a
gift.  She started with breakfast in bed.  She made fresh biscuits, eggs and bacon.  She added a bowl of canned
peaches.  Neil was surprised when she entered the room.

 

“Everything looks wonderful.  What’s the occasion?”

 

Christy put the tray on the dresser and came over to Neil.  She piled the pillows behind him and then tucked the
blankets tightly around him before bringing the food over.  “This Doctor is your first gift.  Merry Christmas.”

 

As she got up to leave he grabbed her hand.  “Stay” he begged

 

She smiled, “I’ll be back.”

 

Soon she returned with a tray of her own.  She joined him for breakfast.  Neil smiled at his wife as he ate his
breakfast.  When he finished she took their trays to the kitchen and returned to help him dress.

 

“What are you doing?”  He asked.  “I’ve been dressing myself for many years and haven’t messed it up yet.”

 

“My second gift to you is to treat you like a king.  To make your day as pleasant as possible.  Royalty have servants
to wait on them and that is what I intend to do today.”  In her defense she added, “Mind you.  I will only be doing
this today though.”

 

Neil laughed aloud and touched her cheek.  As she began putting on his socks he stopped her.  “The thought is
lovely and I’ll let you care for me but please, I can do for myself.”

 

“Alright then.  Is there anything else I can do for you?”

 

“As a matter of fact…” he answered grabbing his wife intimately.  He took her back to their bed and kissed her
deeply, the breakfast dishes would wait a while longer.

 

Finally they both came to the kitchen.  Christy cleaned up breakfast and Neil began getting the stove ready to cook. 
One of Neil’s favorite things was to help his wife do chores.  He always felt uncomfortable watching her work while
he read in his medical journals.

 

“Come sit with me” said Neil after Christy put the beef in the oven.  “The potatoes can wait a bit while I give you a
gift.”

 

“We can wait till the others get here.” She answered.

 

“Nonsense.” he declared as he crawled under the tree to retrieve a small box he had hidden.  Christy sat in her chair
by the tree while Neil remained sitting at her feet on the floor.  She smiled at him,  “ I’m already married sir, you
needn’t propose again.”  She said with a “Victorian” dignity.

 

Neil smiled back at her.  “I’ve no intentions of giving you the opportunity to say no.”  He handed her the gift, “alright
open it.”

 

Inside Christy found a beautiful necklace with a charm on it.  Engraved on the charm was the phrase  “… A time to
love… Oct. 17,1913”.

 

“I’m not as versed in the bible as most.” Neil explained “ but lately that one passage, you know the one that says a
time to be born, a time to die, … well I’ve been hearing that in my head.  When we were in Asheville I had every
intention of buying my ring but when I got to the jeweler the ring I chose wasn’t as expensive as I had thought.  With
the extra money and the money your “friend” gave me for loading her trunk, I got this.  I told you I used the money
for a gift for you.  Do you like it?”

 

Tears were rolling down Christy’s cheeks as she kissed her husband.  “Of course I love it.”

 

“I put our wedding date on it to mark the beginning of our lives together.”  Neil explained but Christy was too
emotional to hear him.  “Here let me help you with that.”  He said taking the chain from her. After he closed the clasp
around her neck he straightened it out.  “There as beautiful as I had imagined.”

 

“Thank you.”  Christy managed to say wiping her tears.  She again kissed his lips.  Today was a special day she
thought and not just because it was Christmas.

 

“Well.”  Neil said bringing them back to reality.  “Our guests will be here soon and we still have potatoes to peal.”

 

“I’ll start them, I think you’d better check Duke.”  Christy reached into a bucket she had a pulled out a crisp apple
for the horse.  “You can give him his present too.”

 

Neil laughed.  “Always thinking of others.”

 

Neil returned to find the potatoes peeled and ready for cooking and Christy almost done making apple crisp for
dessert.  He was amazed at all she had done while he was gone.  He put the logs he’d brought in on the fire in the
fireplace when there was a knock at the front door.  Neil looked at Christy.  “Your guests are here.  Would you like
to let them in?”

 

Christy glared at her husband.  She knew she had said she would treat him like a king but she was covered in flour
and he could have easily gotten the door.  She was just about to make that very comment when Neil yelled  “Come
in.”

 

The door opened and there stood Christy’s mother and father.

 

“Merry Christmas Girlie” her dad said as he entered their home.  Christy squealed with delight as she ran to hug her
parents, forgetting her apron was full of flour.  Her father hugged her tightly ignoring the mess.  When it was her
mother’s turn she asked her daughter to remove her apron, after which she hugged Christy.  Christy was so excited
to see her parent’s she hadn’t even noticed Alice, David or Ruby Mae.  Neil then walked over to the door to usher
in the rest of their guests.  Even though apologies were made, no one’s feelings were hurt.  They enjoyed watching
Christy light up while she talked with her parents.  David went with Neil to the barn to care for the horses.  Alice had
borrowed the Spencer’s new wagon to bring them all here and the horses were tired.  When they returned, David
and Neil had arms full of gifts from the Huddleston’s.  They included the gift Christy had left in Asheville for her
parents.  All were put under the tree.  Neil smiled joyfully while he watched his wife “visit” with her parents.

 

Soon the women were working at the kitchen table discussing, or shall we say debating the different ways to make
each dish they were serving.  David and Neil however sat listening to William discuss the latest world events.  Local
mountain news was never hard to come by but “real world” news was at best old.

 

As they joined hands around the table for dinner Neil offered a prayer of thanksgiving.  Dinner was delicious and no
one had room fro dessert.  After the table had been cleared and the dishes washed they gathered around the
Christmas tree to exchange gifts.

 

Ruby Mae had been practicing her sewing and made everyone bible covers.  David loved the new tools the
Huddleston’s gave him.  They fit perfectly into the toolbox the MacNeill’s had given him.  Alice had learned Tatting
from a patient in Low Gap and made everyone doilies and bookmarkers.  She objected to the Huddleston’s gift, a
new saddle, but was finally convinced to accept it.  The MacNeill’s gave her a new horse blanket to go with the
saddle.  Ruby Mae was speechless when she opened her gifts.  Christy and Neil gave her a store bought dress with
matching stockings and ribbons.  Her first store bought dress.  The Huddleston’s gave her a brand new, store bought
coat with hat and gloves.  She loved them.

 

Finally the Huddleston’s gave Christy and Neil their gift.  “It’s still in the barn.”  Neil said know what it was.  So
that’s were everyone went and found a horse.  Christy cried.  Now when Neil was gone for longer periods she
would be able to travel farther around the cove.  Back inside Christy felt uneasy about the gift she had for her
parents.  She had written them a book about life in the cove.  It was filled with joy and sorrow.  Most importantly it
was filled with sketches to accompany the story.  Julia cried as she read the inscription, William could only clear his
throat.  “I think you made a wise choice love.”  Whisper Neil to Christy.

 

Christy loved Neil’s gift too.  Not only did he give her a sketchpad but he also gave her colored chalk.  Her pictures
would now be as beautiful as they were in real life.  Finally Christy gave Neil her gift.  At first he didn’t realize that
they were curtains.  And didn’t understand why she was giving him a box of fabric.  Seeing his puzzled look Julia
said to Alice,  “ I think it’s wonderful Mrs. Allen taught Christy how to sew curtains, They will surely keep the cabin
warmer than the lace ones hanging now.”

 

A tear came to Neil’s eye remembering the argument they had had about the curtains.  Over time he had gotten used
to them and had been sorry he had laughed and hurt her feelings.  Now she had purchased a wonderful fabric and
learned to make curtains for him, for them.  He looked at a sad Christy and allowed the tear to roll down his cheek. 
He reached over and kissed her fingers.  Pulling her to him, he sat her on his lap and buried his face into her neck.

 

“Well let’s see how they look Doctor.” Announced William.  As everyone laughed the men started hanging the
curtains and the women got dessert ready.  When all of the curtains were finally hung they sat down to dessert and to
admire them.  Neil sat very close to Christy.

 

“They look terrific.  You out did yourself love.” He said.

 

“They do look nice.” She answered.  “But not as nice as your gifts.” She said absently playing with her necklace.

 

“They’re better.  Your gift took thought, effort and time.  Mine took money.  You took a painful memory and made
it joyful.  I took a joyful moment and made it a memory.”  He said looking a necklace he had given her that morning. 
He leaned his forehead against her head so he could whisper, “ I love them almost as much as I love you.”  Now
tears rolled down Christy’s cheeks. How did Neil know exactly what to say to make her feel better?

 

Knowing there was more room at the mission the Huddleston’s insisted on staying there.  Everyone left promised to
meet for breakfast the next day.

 

Neil sent his wife to bed while he built up the fire for the evening.  When he finally came to bed he was surprised to
find her in bed wearing little more than a ribbon in her hair and holding a small package.  Neil too had a gift in his
hand.

 

Christy unwrapped hers first.  It was her doll from Asheville.  “Perhaps she’ll keep you company while I have to be
gone.”

 

“She’ll do just fine.”  She answered.  Neil then unwrapped his little gift.  There were coupons for future things or for
favors.  Some were practical, some were whimsical and silly and some were intimate.  Neil read each one carefully
and chose one to be redeemed that evening.  Christy read her handwritten note and blushed as Neil “unwrapped”
her hair ribbon.  Yes, she thought, this was the best Christmas ever.

 

The End.