Kolby Creek Angel

© 2013 E.M. Williams. All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted by any means without the written permission of the author.

Jacket design and illustration by Esther Williams.

This is a work of fiction. All of the characters, names, incidents, organizations, and dialogue in this novel are either the products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously.

Published by AuthorHouse 11/25/2013

ISBN: 978-1-4918-3811-2 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-4918-3810-5 (e)

Library of Congress Control Number: 2013921585

Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Thinkstock are models,

and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

Certain stock imagery © Thinkstock.

Because of the dynamic nature of the Internet, any web addresses or links contained in this book may have changed since publication and may no longer be valid. The views expressed in this work are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, and the publisher hereby disclaims any responsibility for them.

Contents

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Nineteen

Chapter Twenty

Chapter Twenty One

Chapter Twenty Two

About the Author

Chapter One

T he old log cabin lay nestled in a hollow at the foot of Kolby Mountain, dozing lazily among blossoming dogwoods and red berried holly bushes. Blue spruce grew farther up the mountain, and a stand of sweet-smelling pine bordered the meadow on the perimeter of the land. Weathered to a mellow brown, the logs of the rustic abode spoke of by-gone days; and things hadn’t changed all that much here on the mountain. Kolby Creek still rushed swiftly over boulders and rocks, a stone’s throw from the cabin. And the air still smelled just as sweet, where twenty year-old Kathrin Kolby Clark sat basking in the warm sunshine, watching the creek fl ow by.

An old pump still stands at the end of the back porch, a reminder of days gone by. And a battered chopping block with an ax stuck in it still held its place of honor out by the wood shed. An old cross-cut saw still hangs in its place on the wall of the wood shed where many a log has been stacked to keep fires burning, on cold winter days.

Kari, as she was known to family and friends had been born and raised here, in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. And the cabin standing in the shadow of Kolby Mountain had been her home for twenty-one years come November. Kari had even gotten her name from the life-sustaining creek, fed by streams flowing down from Kolby Mountain.

Looking around, Kari breathed in the scents of early spring. The chores were finally done, the wash on the line, and a pie cooling for tonight’s dessert. Collecting her sketch pad and charcoal pencils, she had hurried down to the creek to relax for a while before she had to start dinner; work on her sketches, and maybe daydream a little.

She had climbed up on her favorite rock, pushed her long black hair back from her face, and leaned back against a boulder. The day was glorious; and here she sat at last, taking in the glory of nature all around her. Kari sighed, and closed her eyes. She had been thinking of a new design for a ball gown all morning, and was eager to capture it for her portfolio before it got away.

She saw it now in her mind’s eye: soft creamy satin, long, shimmering and flowing. She made a few strokes with her pencil… and there it was!

Kari’s dream was to design evening gowns like the ones pictured in her favorite fashion magazine. She saw them flashing through her mind one by one, in unusual styles and delicate colors; just waiting to be created…gowns that would bring joy to the lives of those they touched; dresses that would make happiness radiate from the faces of those who wore them. With dreams of producing her own creations, Kari had already completed a portfolio of designs. It was her ambition to present them to someone someday; who would appreciate their beauty, someone who could make it all happen. But once again, she was compelled to push her hopes aside. Not yet, she told herself. Gram still needs me, and I will always be here for her, as long as she does.

A green frog suddenly leapt onto the sketch-pad, startling Kari. Hey little one she laughed. How would you like to be my model? You’re a perfect shade of green, that’s for sure. She let it hop onto her finger; and finally, taking a flying leap, it disappeared into the bright waters of the creek.

The sun gently caressed Kari as she leaned back again. Stretching her long brown legs out on the smooth warm rock; she took full advantage of its warmth. It felt wonderful to be outside like this after the long cold winter. She pulled her old dress a little higher, to receive the full benefit of soothing warm rays. It was true the winter had seemed longer than usual, but that was because Kari preferred the warmer months. Actually the winter had not been as harsh as some she remembered. And so spring arrived earlier than usual in Kolby Creek, and was welcomed with delight.

This huge rock by the creek was Kari’s favorite spot, and she often came here, weather permitting, when chores were done, to think about how life would be in faraway places. When she was occupied with drawing or sketching, she was content, but then she was faced with the reality of just another ordinary day, and the futility of her dream.

Kari’s thoughts drifted idly back over her young life, and she wondered what the future held in store for her. There was nothing to be had, in the way of a career here on the mountain. But someday she told herself, things would be different. Perhaps Gram would accompany her; and she would travel. She envisioned her designs becoming well-known and preferred by eminent people. She brushed a strand of hair from her eyes and looked toward the distant sky. I know it’s only a dream, she sighed, but such a lovely one.

"A jay scolded shrilly from a tree overhead, interrupting her solitude. She opened her long-lashed pale green eyes and looked toward the cabin. She could see her brother Kyle moving around the shop out back; where he was busy finishing the chairs he was building for the Bazaar. Kyle was dedicated to his work, and was becoming very successful for one so young.

The Mountain Arts and Crafts Bazaar in the village, displayed local crafts from all over the mountain; and on Friday evening’s folks came from all over to listen to mountain-style music. The Bazaar was the hub of entertainment in the small village of Kolby Creek; and Jerry and his Blue-Ridge Band kept things up-beat and lively. They entertained guests with everything from Country music, to blue-grass. The rustic open warehouse filled up to over-flowing with people, enjoying each other’s company in the friendly mountain setting.

Then on Saturdays it continued on, gathering force, with folks gathering to sell their wares. Long tables were set up to display baked goods: homemade cookies, pies and cakes; home-made jams, preserves and candy. There were sandwiches of all kinds, available for sale; as well as tubs of ice-cold drinks. Urns of hot coffee and tea supplied cups of steaming brew to those in need of warmer sustenance. A festive mood prevailed as couples danced, or just sat around with friends enjoying the day. Visitors came from far and wide to have an ‘off- the- beaten- track’ mountain experience. And they always left smiling; loaded down with Kolby Mountain pottery, or perhaps a handmade quilt. Indian blankets were great collectibles, as well as hand-woven rugs and Indian jewelry. The tourist as well as the locals loved the old-time rustic atmosphere of the place.

Kyle’s chairs were a favorite item among the crafts, along with his unusual tables, and quaint birdhouses. They sold out as fast as he could supply them. In fact he was supposed to deliver a truck load later today. Kari’s brother Kyle was a master wood-craftsman, and the beauty he brought to an ordinary piece of wood was amazing. He would take an old tree, fallen due to wind or some other natural cause, and saw it into parts. When he was finished; it would be a thing of beauty; a shiny table, bench, headboard for a bed, or whatever idea he got into his head for it to be. It was amazing what his imagination could come up with. Kyle had always been interested in making things with his hands. And by the time he was ten years old he could be found at old Mr. Rigby’s after school, watching and learning. Old John had been mighty pleased, and saw to it that Kyle acquired all the hands on training he could obtain; taught by the best master wood- craftsman this side of the Smokies.

Old John Rigby had left his business to Kyle, along with all his tools of the trade when he became unable to carry on. Kyle never took this gift for granted. He cared for his tools meticulously, cleaning them carefully after every use. Kyle knew that tools like those were exceptional: hard to come by, and he could never afford to replace them.

Kari felt a gentle breeze touch her face and lift her hair. She looked up from her sketch pad, her eyes scanning the distance, from the edge of the meadow to the great mountain rising up behind the cabin. She watched the ever present hawk circle slowly overhead, and wispy cirrus clouds drift high over the mountain. This place was home, and she loved it; even though far-away places beckoned, and her heart yearned to explore them. Kari knew that was for another time; if it was meant to be at all. I will follow Grams example and learn somehow to be content. She thought wistfully.

Kyle and Kari had not dared to think of pursuing a career away from the village of Kolby Creek; because of their grandmother, Elizabeth Clark. She had taken on the task of raising them when their mother Kathrin had died giving birth to Kari. Three year old Kyle, and baby Kari had become the focus of their grandmother’s life. And they in turn were dedicated to her, willingly putting their dreams aside.

Kari’s thoughts drifted back over the years. She thought sadly of Grandpa. Times had been tough, since he had died, but they had made ends meet somehow, by pulling together.

Elizabeth Clark, Kari’s grandmother was still a strong attractive woman off fifty-eight. She had a great sense of humor, a twinkle in her eye, and a real happiness that her faith brought to her. Working at the Ashton’s every day was something she enjoyed, especially since her employers were friends as well. Old Gil Ashton and his family lived at Ashton Hall at the top of Kolby Mountain, and had been friends of theirs as long as Kari could remember.

Kari stayed at home and did her part by doing the housework, and most of the cooking; while Kyle sold his crafts and furniture, so they did all right.

Gazing at the rustic logs of the cabin, Kari’s thoughts strayed to her great-grandfather, and marveled at the work he had put into building their cabin. It still stood just as solid and sturdy today as it was then; a testimony to his love for his family. He had been known here on the mountain as the half-breed; Deerhart Clark, and had built their cabin four generations ago, on land given to him by the Ashtons.

Kari’s great-grandfather Deerhart Clark had been half American Indian, from the Cherokee tribe, and half Scottish. His mother had been a full-blooded Cherokee Indian girl from these mountains.

The story is told, that her great-great grandfather, Kyle Clark I, had met beautiful White Fawn Deerhart on one of the mountain trails, where she was gathering berries for making dyes, and the rest is history. Beautiful White Fawn had fallen in love, the first time she looked into the dark-lashed pale- green eyes of Kari’s great-great grandfather, that tall strapping Scotsman, Kyle Clark; just arrived from the Scottish Highlands.

They became man and wife soon after, and had one son, who became her great-grandfather, Kyle Deerhart Clark.

Kari pictured the meeting of her ancestors, and thought how romantic it must have been. Her great-great grandfather had come to America; looking for a place to build a life; Scotland having nothing more to offer. Its green hills had been turned into pasture for grazing sheep. Its people turned out of their homes, and the land turned into sheep-runs. Saying a sad goodbye to his homeland, Kyle Clark embarked on a great ship, along with many others seeking hope for a new life in America. Upon arrival in the new land, he had set out to find a place to call home. Kyle Clark, found the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, a place where he could be content, and so he settled here. And his son Deerhart, her great grandfather built the cabin they called home.

Being part Cherokee, Deerhart knew these mountains like the back of his hand, every tree, stream, and trail.

Kari had heard the story told many times, of how Deerhart was walking the trail leading to Bald Rock pond one day; when he heard a young child screaming for help. Running around the bend, he was just in time to see a small boy of about five years of age going under the slate-gray water for the last time. Deerhart had quickly jumped into the pond; and finding the limp body of young Gil Ashton, pulled him safely to the bank. The boy had run away from his nurse, who had taken him on an outing. Intent on going swimming, Gil had sneaked away and headed for the pond.

The legend of Deerhart Clark, the brave half-breed is recounted to this day on the mountain; and how he preserved the Ashton legacy by saving young Gil; Sam Ashton’s only son.

Samuel Gilford Ashton had owned most of the land on Kolby Mountain; and had only one son, born very late in his life; and Gil was the only one he ever hoped to have. Sam was so grateful, that he insisted on deeding the creek meadow to her great grandfather Deerhart Clark; declaring it was a small price to pay for his son’s life. That was when her great-grandfather had built the cabin they called home, by hard work and sheer perseverance; with logs cleared from the land.

Ever since that time, it seemed the Clark’s lives had intertwined with those of the Ashton’s.

Kari smiled when she thought of Barry Ashton, and her heart beat a little faster. She held those thoughts close; another dream, and only allowed herself to take them out to enjoy when she was alone.

Barry was editor-in-chief of the local newspaper, The Kolby Creek Sentinel. He also happened to be the great-grandson of now very old Gil Ashton; from Ashton Hall, where her grandmother worked.

The local newspaper was the most important thing in Barry’s life. Tall and broad-shouldered with ice-blue eyes and crisp curly black hair. Barry was the serious type. But his sudden smile could warm the depths of his cool-blue eyes, like rays of sunshine. His strong jaw spoke of the unyielding force that emanated from him, and he used it occasionally, when getting tough interviews for the Sentinel.

Lost in thought, Kari was awakened from her reverie by her brother’s voice calling:

Hey, Kari.

I’m here by the creek, Kyle.

Kyle ambled down and sat on a rock in the shade, sipping a cool glass of water and wiping his brow on his shirt-sleeve. I saw you weren’t in the house, I thought you’d be out here. Did you get your sketches finished?

No… I’ve been mostly day-dreaming, about everything. That’s all it is you know: the sketching, drawing and designing. It’s all just a far-fetched dream.

You never know, Kari. Just keep doing what you love. Who can say what will happen in the future. He took a long drink of water.

Whew… it’s warm for this time of year! Usually it’s much cooler here in the higher altitudes.

Yes it is. It’s pleasant here by the creek though. Did you finish up?

Yep, I have it all ready to put on the truck. Kyle glanced in Kari’s direction narrowing his hazel-green eyes against the slant of the sun.

I’ll give you a hand when you’re ready, if you like. she offered.

No need, most of it is loaded, but I had to have a break, I was dying of thirst.

You know Kyle, Kari said, cutting her eyes in his direction. I wish grandpa could be here to see your handiwork. He would be very proud of you. I was just thinking about our great- grandpa. I believe you inherited his gift.

That’s nice of you to say Sis. He said modestly. I miss Grandpa like it was only yesterday, even though he’s been gone a few years now.

I do too. Kari said wistfully. He really lit up a room with his smile and song.

"He certainly did that."

Kari sat up hugging her arms around her knees reminiscing, I was only eleven, but I’ll never forget those wonderful times. She picked up her sketch- pad stood to her full height of five feet eight inches and stretched, smoothing her dress over her lovely willowy figure. And with movements as graceful as a ballet dancer, she stepped from the large flat rock onto the rock-strewn bank of the creek.

I’d better get to the house and get dinner started. It’s almost time for Gram.

Yeah, I have to pick her up shortly. Kyle glanced at his watch and stood, pouring the remaining water in the creek. "I’ll be back in a couple of minutes.

Kari had the chicken fried crisp and golden brown, draining on paper towels. The peas were simmering bright green and appetizing, and the potatoes were mashed and creamy, ready for the table when she heard the truck door slam. Kari heard Gram laugh, as she came up on the porch with Kyle right behind her, and proceeded to set the table with the thick brown stoneware. She placed a cold pitcher of iced tea in the center of the table, and all was ready for the meal. Kari was grateful for the refreshing breeze blowing through the open window that sent the gingham curtains billowing. She had to laugh at Kyle and Grams playful banter as they came through the door.

You’d better stop playing around, get to the table, and eat this food while it’s hot, Kari warned.

Kyle breathed in the aroma and rolled his eyes. You don’t have to call me twice Sis. Gram glanced around the table and nodded. This really looks delicious dear. She slipped into the chair Kyle held for her, bowed her head and said a reverent grace: We thank you Lord, for this food, and all your bountiful blessings.

Amen, Kyle said and began passing the dishes around.

They discussed events of the day and enjoyed their family time together.

The meal finished, and the table cleared, Gram took her crocheting and retired to the front porch rocker. Making sweaters and scarves for Christmas must be started early, and wasn’t easily kept secret. But Kari and Kyle didn’t ask questions, and she didn’t volunteer any information and so all worked out well.

Kari went out back and removed the clothes from the line, folding each piece carefully to eliminate ironing. Seeing movement at the edge of the creek, she looked up to see a doe and her fawn drinking the cool fresh water. Kari watched them for a moment, then picking up the laundry basket, took it into the small room used as the laundry room. The washer stood proudly in its place, a gift from the Ashtons.’ Gil Ashton had also had a small but adequate bathroom installed when the electricity had been put in, determined that Deerhart’s descendants were well provided for.

Kari placed the basket on the laundry table, which was added by Kyle, as well as the ample storage shelves above it.

Kari finished up, and went to join her grandmother on the porch.

It sure is lovely this time of night, Kari said watching the lavender colors of evening descend around them.

Yes it is dear. We really had a lovely day. The warm weather was wonderful.

Barry came home a little early today, Gram continued. He asked about you. I declare that boy lights up all over when your name is mentioned.

What did you tell him? Kari asked.

I told him you were fine… still poring over that magazine and dreaming of the big city.

Gram you didn’t.

Oh we were just making conservation, but he looked just a little too interested, if you ask me. Smiling sweetly, she cast a sly look at Kari.

That may be just your imagination Gram. Kari bit her lip and smiled, knowing very well that Gram was right.

I think I’ll take a warm bath and turn in if you don’t mind, Kari said. I want to look over my sketches a while. I have an idea I want to work on.

Alright, good night dear, sleep well.

Kari kissed her grandmother good night, opened the door; and stood quietly looking out at the mountain peaks, silhouetted against the sky in the after-glow of the setting sun; then went quietly to her room.

She got her nightgown out, and turned down the bed; then hurried to the bathroom, wanting some time to herself before Kyle came in for his shower.

Turning on the water to draw her bath, she stood before the large mirror over the sink, brushing her abundant long black hair. Pinning it up she examined the oval of her face critically; running her fingertips over her high cheekbones, a rosy brown from her Cherokee heritage; and unusual pale-green eyes from her Scottish and Irish side. Long thick lashes, gently arched brows and full lips, were like her tawny-haired mother, Kathrin, who had been an Irish beauty. Her picture stood in a place of honor on Kari’s dresser, alongside her handsome father.

Kyle Deerhart Clark III had died in the service of his country, when her mother was in the early stages of pregnancy before Kari was born. Sadly, Kari had never known him, or her beautiful mother. That fact made Gram even more special to her and to her brother.

Kari stepped into the big claw foot tub and lay back in the warm water closing her eyes. The steamy warmth soothed and relaxed tired muscles. Holding one long brown leg out of the water, she soaped it generously and then the other.

Finishing her bath, she sat up and was reaching for a towel, when she heard Kyle’s footsteps. He would definitely be ready for a shower after working in that dusty workshop all day.

She pulled her thin cotton gown over her head and braided her long glossy hair. Her bed already turned down, she grabbed her favorite magazine, and climbed in. She took her sketch pad and pencil from the bedside table and enjoyed working on her sketches for half an hour; and then surrounded by pillows, she leaned back and opened up the magazine. There on the first page was a model in a long flowing gown, graceful and beautiful. Kari dreamed of designing dresses like that. Just look at that setting, she thought. It is simple, uncluttered, and elegant. Long divans, textured pillows in jewel tones, and sparkling crystal chandeliers graced the glossy page. My design in white satin, against that crimson divan would be breathtaking, she sighed. Kari looked around her own room with an appraising eye. The furnishings were adequate; old but nice pieces, antiques you might say. They were gifts to Gram long ago from the Ashton’s. A simple white ruffled bedspread, with curtains to match, sewn lovingly by Gram adorned her bed and windows. Kari smoothed the spread and smiled, grateful to Gram for all she had done for her, and her brother. She had sacrificed to put them through school, making sure they had everything that was required. Kari wanted to attend college; and major in design, and though it wasn’t possible at this time; she promised herself she would do so, at the first opportunity.

Turning the pages of the magazine slowly, she dreamed of the carefree way of life pictured within its covers. That’s the everyday way of life in New York City. she said softly." Finally she yawned, laid the book aside, and turned off the bedside lamp. She snuggled into her soft goose down pillow, and was soon fast asleep.

Kari awoke early, to hear Gram stirring around getting ready to go up to the Ashton’s, where she fixed old Mrs. Ashton’s breakfast. Gram helped with Mrs. Ashton’s morning routine, after which she did light housework, seeing to the old lady’s needs in between.

Gram saw Kari peek around the door.

Hello sleepy-head, she smiled. Kari brushed sleep from her eyes and smiled.

Can I get you some coffee before you go Gram?

No honey, I’ll have a little something with Mrs. Ashton. She enjoys the company.

Oh, okay. I’ll fix something for Kyle then. I know he wants to get the rest of those crafts delivered early. He didn’t quite finish up yesterday. I thought I’d go with him and get some tomato plants. I think it’s turned warm enough and maybe some flowers for around the front porch too.

Gram rolled her eyes. You’d better make sure their deer resistant, and come to think of it, rabbit resistant too. Well, I’d better go. I’ll see you this afternoon dear, she said, going out the front door where Kyle was waiting to drive her up the mountain.

Kari fixed a hearty breakfast for Kyle, and had a quick cup of coffee and toast. Then she hurriedly tidied the kitchen, and ran to get dressed for the trip into town. Rushing to the bathroom, she splashed her face with water. Quickly brushing her hair she tied it back. She donned a flowered cotton skirt, and one of Grams gifts, a beautifully crocheted sweater in heather purple. She hurriedly slipped her feet into sandals and met Kyle at the truck. They jumped in and were off, the old truck taking to the mountain road like a charm; where laurel, wild azalea and dogwood were bursting into bloom. The rushing creek was visible from the narrow winding road; tumbling over boulders, stones and river rock; with blossoms dotting the bank everywhere. Nature was awakening on Kolby Mountain, and putting on a spectacular show, for those blessed to witness it.

The truck rumbled into town loaded with chairs, tables, birdhouses, and a wealth of other crafts. Kyle backed up to the door of the Mountain Craft Bazaar, and was starting to unload the truck when Harlan Doyle came out to assist him. His carroty beard and mustache were stretched in a merry grin, while his red suspenders worked overtime trying to hold his jeans up over a rotund belly resembling a rolling foothill, if not exactly a mountain.

Well, lookie here at these tables and chairs. He declared in his colorful accent. They’ll go faster’n hot cakes on a cold winter morning. How’re you today Miss Kari?

I’m well, thank you Harlan, and yourself?

If I was any better, I couldn’t stand myself, he exclaimed exuberantly.

Wonderful! Kari grinned.

Need my help, Kyle? Kari glanced at her brother, who moved toward the back of the truck.

No, I’ve got this; you go ahead and get your plants.

I won’t be long, Kari promised. I’ll be back in about fifteen minutes.

Kari strolled down the street toward High Park Garden Center, which took her past the Sentinel newspaper office.

Barry stood looking out the window where he was taking five for a morning coffee break. He could not believe his eyes, and his handsome jaw dropped a notch in surprise when he saw Kari strolling by. His ice-blue eyes narrowed, then warmed, lighting his face with anticipation. The girl was lovely. He watched, entranced by her unconsciously graceful flowing movements as she walked. That’s poetry in motion if I ever saw it. He set his cup down and headed out the door.

Kari was talking to Jim Parker about tomato plants when she glimpsed Barry approaching, tall and slim; his shirt stretched tight across broad shoulders. His waist neat and trim and his long muscular legs encased in well-creased slacks. He was very handsome as he sauntered toward her. Kari’s cheeks grew warm and she bent, pretending to look closer at the labels on the pots, to hide a blush.

Well hello stranger, the day started off nice, but it just seems to get better. Kari straightened up and met his pale-blue eyes, which warmed suddenly, a smile lurking in their depths. His black eyebrows were raised, as if surprised to run into her. A lock of hair brushed his forehead, and lashes that any girl would envy brushed his cheeks as he examined the plants.

I see you’re planning to start a garden. This warm weather is great for it.

Yes, I thought I’d get some tomatoes started, and a few other veggies as well. I’m also looking for some deer resistant flowers. I don’t want to go to all that trouble, just to have a deer eat them for lunch. Barry’s firm lips parted in a smile, making Kari much too aware of his close proximity. She looked away and stepped back, brushing a black wisp of hair from her eyes. Glancing at him she saw him watching her face intently, and decided to change the subject.

Um…How are things at the paper?

You know what they say; no news is good news, and right now good news prevails.

Kari laughed. "Things could be worse."

I suppose. But right now I need to fill that paper with something; any ideas?

Why don’t you fill it with the happenings of the day? We have unseasonably warm weather for the mountains. Get some shots of people doing crazy things; like jumping into Bald Rock pond, or fishing in Kolby Creek, or getting a suntan in a bikini.

Now I could sell some papers with that one, Barry grinned. You may just have something there. Would you be interested in going around with me? We could observe the activities on the mountain, get some interviews and maybe some pictures for the paper. Kari blinked her eyes and pursed her lips, considering his request. That really sounds like fun, but I have too much to do today.

Being persistent, Barry tried again.

How about tomorrow, it’s supposed to be even warmer. I could pick you up say… about nine o’clock in the morning and we could be back around four. Kari thought a moment. That sounds okay. That will give me time to make dinner before Gram gets home.

All right then, we have a plan. I’ll pick you up around nine. I have to leave Bobby in charge of the Sentinel tomorrow. He pressed his lips together thoughtfully. I hope he doesn’t mess things up too badly. I really do need some help around there. See you bright and early tomorrow morning.

Kari smiled and raised her hand in farewell, and her heart skipped a beat, as she turned back to choose her plants. Barry shoved his hands in his pockets and sauntered back nonchalantly, but couldn’t disguise the spring in his step as he whistled an upbeat tune.

Kari chose her tomato plants, and included cucumbers, squash, onion and lettuce. Then she chose the flowers. She liked old favorites such as marigold, colorful petunias; and white daisy’s. Red cannas and blue larkspur and delphinium were chosen for the area at the end of the porch. They should be animal resistant, Jim said, however; if they’re hungry enough, deer and rabbit may eat anything, he said shaking his head.

That’s okay Jim, if we try that’s all we can do. Kari paid for her purchase, lifted the tray of flowers and vegetables and started back to the truck. Barry watched for her through the window, and when he saw her laden with the full tray of vegetables and flowers, he came out, insisting on carrying them for her. Hey let me give you a hand that looks pretty heavy.

Thanks, I didn’t plan to get so many. Kyle could have picked me up, had I told him. Barry placed them in the truck, nodding to Kyle and Harlan. It was my pleasure to be of help; see you in the morning. Kari smiled gratefully. See you then, she smiled as she watched him walk away.

Kyle was propped against the truck talking to Harlan; whose red beard made him look even warmer, as he mopped his brow with a handkerchief.

If it gets any warmer I’m gonna have to bring out the big fans. That’ll take a bite and a half out of the profits.

You’re right there Harlan. Rates have gone sky high. Well, we have to be heading home, there’s work to be done, and there’s no rest for the weary.

Harlan scratched the red bristles under his chin and grinned, Ain’t that the God’s truth.

See you soon. Kyle waved and pulled into the street. Harlan saluted and watched them drive off.

Kyle drove home and pulled the truck around to the back of the house by the screened porch. When are we planting these? He said, lifting the tray of flowers and vegetables. Kari took some of the flowers from the tray and opened the screen door.

She looked up from setting the flowers inside the porch, We don’t have time today. We’ll work on it next week. We have to get the rows tilled and ready first.

Kyle deposited the tray of plants inside the porch, and went to look at the space set aside for the garden; sizing up the situation with a critical eye. I’ll have to build a fence at least six feet high to keep the deer out. I’ll get the stakes ready and we’ll stretch wire around them, leaving a makeshift door to get in and out.

I think you’re right, we really do need something to keep the critters out. Thanks for helping out Kyle.

Hey, don’t thank me; I’ll be eating those veggies too. I don’t mind.

Kari and Kyle had always been that way with each other. Gram had taught them well; that if you want respect, you have to give respect. Gram wouldn’t have it any other way. And Kyle being three years older, learned to have patience with little sister Kari early on. He had always looked out for her, and nothing had changed to this day. Kari in turn admired her big brother and was very proud of him. There was no sibling rivalry between them, thanks to Gram.

Kari had dinner ready once again. It was a time the family looked forward to; a time to be together and share the day’s events with one another.

Kari set the table. Then she grilled chops, made a salad, and Kyle’s favorite, buttered boiled potatoes, along with hot rolls, and leftover pie for dessert. It was ready and waiting when the truck rolled up bringing Gram home. Kari heard her on the porch and started to pour tall glasses of iced tea. Gram opened the door and came in smiling, with Kyle right behind her.

Something smells divine. I declare you get better at cooking all the time my dear. I may never cook again.

I learned from you Gram, and remember what you taught me. We are never, to say never.

Gram laughed and took her seat. Kyle was starving as usual, but he waited for grace, upon which Gram insisted. Grace said, Kyle added his favorite part, Amen, passed the dishes around, and dug in with gusto.

Did you get the plants today dear?

Yes I did. Kyle and I are going to take care of the garden in the next few days. I will be gone most of the day tomorrow, though.

Really? Gram asked, sipping her tea."

I’m going with Barry to do some interviews and get some pictures of the happenings on the mountain for the paper.

That sounds interesting. How did that come about, if you don’t mind my asking?

I asked him how the paper was doing. He implied that, no news is good news for everyone but him, so I playfully suggested the article. He liked the idea, and asked me to come along.

Good for you Sis, show him how it’s done. Kyle laughed putting a forkful of potato in his mouth.

Kari looked at him raising an eyebrow, I just might do that.

I happen to like the idea. Gram said seriously.

"I was being serious Kari, Kyle raised a brow in return; I meant, really show him how to get those interviews, and do that article."

Well okay, thanks for your vote of confidence.

Kyle winked, grinned, and put another forkful of potatoes in his mouth.

That boy really has an appetite. Kari thought, smiling.

Chapter Two

T he morning was bright, and promising to be warmer than yesterday, as Barry had said. But looking out the window Kari could see that mist was still shrouding the mountain. Hopefully the sun would soon disperse it. Deciding to get an early start, she quickly made her bed and put a load of laundry on to wash. She heard Gram up and stirring around, already getting dressed to go to work. My you’re starting the chores early. Gram said when she sa w her.

I have a lot to do if I’m to be gone all day.

It looks like a fine day for your outing.

Yes, it’s supposed to be even nicer today than yesterday.

Well, have a good day dear. You know, you spend entirely too much time alone here. You need to be with friends more, doing things young folk do, more often.

I’m okay Gram. I’m satisfied just the way things are.

Kyle, overhearing went into the kitchen and poured a cup of coffee.

Yeah sis, you’re young… not an old man like me.

Oh you, Kari swatted him with a dish-towel. You’re the one who needs to have some fun. You stay in that dusty old work shop all the time. When are you going to ask Kelly out? She always makes it her business to come over to check out the new items you have for the Bazaar. I know what she’s really doing. I see the way she cuts those blue eyes at you.

Kyle grinned and raised expressive eyebrows. I’ve noticed that too. Um…maybe I will ask her out for a burger one of these days.

Gram chuckled, and picked up her purse.

It’s mighty early to be talking about romance. I need a ride to work if anyone has the time. Gram headed for the door. Kyle ran ahead and opened it for her, following her out.

I’ll see you this afternoon, have a good day. Gram called.

I will Gram, you too.

Kari returned to the kitchen and made an omelet and toast for Kyle, and had a small glass