Love by Whose Definition Cassie

By Ek Cuan

First Cassie had lost the homeland that she loved.
Then her father.
And her brothers.
And her mother.
Now her only childs life was being threatened and his father, her husband was just standing by waiting.
What was a mother to do? One thing she wasnt going to do was stand around and wait. She knew he was alive, but there was no guarantee of how long hed stay that way. She turned to the one other person who loved her son almost as much as she did- the man who had taught her the skills to deal with the kidnappers as soon as they found them and they did.
Kelly McGavin came to Farm Acres as a lowly worker, but gave her son a father figure much the opposite of his real father. More important he showed her how to tap her inner strength. He taught her mediation and how to defend herself. Through Kelly Cassie learned that she had rights and talents. None Farmer, as her husband, may have demanded strict obedience from her, he did not own her mind and spirit.
Once she found she had the power to take care of herself, never again was the man she married going to control her. Evil belonged in its place and some day she would put him in that place before he had the chance to taint their son.

• Language: English
• Publisher: AuthorHouse
• Release date: Sep 14, 2016
• ISBN: 9781524638276

Ek Cuan

E K Cuan grew up during the time when men did the hard physical work and women did the never ending work. Dad’s day ended when he came home oftentimes exhausted from his daily job, but Mom’s was pretty much 24/7 and she was on call for him and the kids until she fell beyond exhausted into her bed knowing that when her alarm sounded signaling the start of a new day, and whether sick, sober or weary, she had to be ready to take on the world one more time. Cuan admired women of strength, those whose quiet courage pulled them through the darkest of days, but if the quiet way didn’t work were willing to become the mama bear and fight. Most of their actions were motivated by love for their family and friends. Love is an interesting word. Much good is done in the name of love. Much harm is done in the name of love. Trying to make sense of what love actually is brought about the creation of Cassie McClerron Farmer and her future generations.

Book preview

1

The Prophecy

Ireland…..summer of 1854

T he summer’s heat tested both thermometers and people’s endurance. It was so hot, Cassandra heard her mother say several weeks earlier to a visitor, that it would melt the blue out of your eyes. Cassie made a dash for the little broken mirror that she kept on her box by her cot to check on the amount of endangered color mixed in hers. Opening her eyes wide as possible, she breathed a sigh of deep relief upon discovering no trace of a meltdown. She searched the colored circle finding green and some small flecks of brown, but no blue. Did she once have some and it had melted, victim of the heat? Ma’s laughing at her for being silly gave her no consolation or answer to her question.

Cassie didn’t consider herself to be a selfish child, but it was her turn. Even Ma had said that. The fair only came once a year and during those days she felt like the forgotten person. All she had was stories from the boys and Dah about what it was like. She, Ma, and little Michael were delegated to stay home and take care of the animals and the house. She witnessed the look in Ma’s eyes as the wagon carrying the men folk rumbled off leaving them standing, waving. Even in her younger years Cassie recognized the disappointment, sadness, and maybe longing that her beloved mother tried to cover as she shooed the two younger children back in the house to get started on the chores.

Ma did get her chance to go when what had been a three-day event dwindled down to one. For the last two years, Ma had accompanied Dah, leaving her and Michael home with Andy. The longing had passed from Ma’s eyes to hers. This year Dah had unexpectedly given in to her pleas—and Ma’s, even though Ma never complained—and he proclaimed they all would go to the fair.

We’ll all go! he shouted as he looked over his family, his focus on his beloved wife of seventeen years. His grin was ear to ear as he tried to gather his family in a giant hug. He thanked God as he held his treasure in his arms, surveying them from oldest to youngest. His wife Beirra, and Shamus, Garrett, Andrew, Evan, Thomas, Cassie, Michael.

Why did he not see it? He could stand to lose the house and all that surrounded it, but the thought of his family vanishing for any reason tore his heart. If the fair was all it took to make them happy, to the fair they would go. The house and animals would have to manage on their own. Not that there was an overabundance of animals anymore. Drought and old age had taken their toll.

The eight-year-old unsuccessfully tried to control her joy and excitement. It tickled Sham and Garrett to see their sister so happy. They picked her up and passed her around like a ball. She laughed and beat on them as they pretended to drop her and then catch her at the last second. The laughter and joking inside the house made the outside problems slip away at least for the moment.

That had been last week. The big day finally arrived, and this morning Cassie had made a big, foolish, irrational mistake that might cost her life.

It had been almost cool when Ma and Dah, taking Michael with them, left in the pony cart. The smaller cart, overflowing with things to sell at the fair, had scant space for one rider, much less two. Ma, unwilling to leave six year old Mic behind, hollowed out a spot for him. Cassie had been furious at first, not that she let Dah see how angry she had been. Dah would have cuffed her on the side of the head, or worse, forbidden her to go.

Erid glanced at the reflection of his daughter shimmering back at him from the surface of the shiny pan she had angrily tossed into the cart as her last defiant act of helping load. The pan had bounced around until it came to rest on the rim of the basket wedged in the small space on the front seat, affording him the perfect rear view mirror. He regretted leaving her here by herself, but there was no room in the overcrowded wagon. He wiped his forehead. The heat, already unbearable, was destined to get worse. All of the family should be hunting for the coolest place down on the creek bank instead of rushing off here and there, but no cool place still existed, the water had long dried up. His frown turned upward into a slight grin. His daughter, so young and full of life and with such a temper. She hadn’t gotten it from him. He slid his hand across the seat to clasp hands with his better half. The temper came from his beloved Bierra. The owner of the same fiery eyes, but much more able to control the volcano that often seethed inside her. Maybe in time Cassie would find that control.

That control had cost Bierra heavily. Now instead of her outburst, she turned the fury inward. If she didn’t talk about it, it didn’t exist, but Erid knew better.

His touch caused her to turn her attention from clearing a little more seating space for herself to her husband. She smiled as she felt the heat from his hand. He was aging right before her eyes and she lacked the power to stop it or even slow it down. Such a good man who wanted to provide a good life for his family. It wasn’t because he hadn’t tried. She kissed her fingers and placed her hand on his cheek.

He quickly turned his face away, not in rebuke, but to hide the tears that formed in his eyes. Her hand slid down to his shoulder before she pulled it back to rest in her lap with her other one.

Sensitive to her daughter’s irritation, Ma hoped to soften the blow by reminding her how much more fun it would be to ride in the big wagon with the other boys. She gave her the last minute instructions before the cart pulled away.

You will just be a little bit behind us. Find our stall as soon as you get there. Your dah will need to be relieved. I will need you to help me.

Cassie’s heart fell just a little. She didn’t want to spend her whole time helping sell what the family brought. She wanted time to look even if she had no money to buy. After all, this was her first time. There were so many pretty things for a young girl to dream about owning.

Michael, with a look, tried to show her that he was sorry she got left behind. He’d gladly let her be the one. He knew how anxious she was. They’d talked about it forever.

Because she did know that Mic would have traded places with her if he could, she bravely waved to them as the cart began its slow, bumpy start. Michael was wedged in the back with the boxes and bags. He certainly didn’t look comfortable. The slow mode of transportation would take hours to get them to their destination.

Erid shook his head slowly from side to side. Why is it, he asked, that she is so stubborn and willful?

Beira patted his hand. "You gave her six brothers. Did you really expect her to be meek and docile?’

Ah, he said with good humor, now you are blaming her temperament on me.

Normally, the cart would be the fastest way to travel. Marigold, their old horse was way past her prime. It was hot. Her feet were sore. The cart was loaded down with people and goods. Marigold would do well to even make it the fifteen miles to the fair.

The boys had the wagon and the younger horse. Sham would fold up some blankets for her to sit on, trying to make her seat more comfortable. She didn’t care about comfort. She’d probably be standing or kneeling anyway. With a little luck they could catch up with the cart, if those boys would hurry and get home.

The wind rippled through Cassie’s long reddish brown hair. Despite being just a little past sun rise, the unusually high morning heat already made beads of sweat collect on her forehead; the damp hair around her face kinked and frizzed. The knoll out past the front gate gave her a little height as she scanned the countryside for any sign of her brothers. Shielding her eyes from the sun with her hand, she checked all directions.

Where are those boys? she asked in childish irritation. At eight, patience was not one of her virtues. They promised to be home hours ago.

A frown etched its way across her tanned face. She fought to keep her skirts from billowing up around her. The frown quickly changed to a smile. She absolutely could not stay mad long. The breeze felt so good. She raised her arms out, threw back her head, and let the swirling air fill the material making her look like a fat old lady. Watching the birds fly above, her arms began to move up and down in sync with the wings of her airborne friends. If only she could fly, she would get herself to the fair and not have to wait for those pokey old boys.

How could they be so mean? She made them promise to get done and hurry home. Sham had ruffled her hair backwards like he enjoyed doing even when she told him that it tangled the strands. He looked her in the eye and said they would be back well before the sun got high. She watched them drive away in the early morning light, willing the time to pass quickly.

Cassie maintained her vigil for what to her seemed like hours before she made her decision. The boys apparently ran into trouble at work that delayed them. The day was spinning on without her. It was not that far. Sham always talked about the short cuts he took to get places faster. With a little thinking and figuring, she could come up with a short cut. Short cuts let you go places that horses and carts couldn’t. That was what made them short. Stopping herself before she ran off helter-skelter, she darted to the house to put on her best apron, paused a half second to take a long drink of water and grabbed her hat as she passed the peg. The thought of taking a flask of water never crossed her mind.

She squinted into the sun. The wind had died suddenly leaving only the still, suffocating heat. She had been to Potsbey several times with her ma and dah, but they were in the wagon following the road. All she had to do was figure out the direction of Potsbey and head straight for it. By her calculations the town was somewhere between due east and due south. She’d just kind of cut the distance in half. It all sounded pretty simple.

That settled, Cassie slapped her hat tight on her head and looked around one last time to make sure there was no dust ball on the horizon that might signal the boys coming. A tingle of excitement ran up her spine as she turned her back on the house and took her first step. She was headed to the fair. She pictured the surprised look that would be on Ma and Dah’s faces when she arrived, by herself, without the boys. A fleeting doubt launched like a sky rocket through her head. She shook it away. They would be proud that she was resourceful enough to get to the fair on her own. They surely would.

She plotted her course by the sun. She jogged the first mile. The second went a little slower. By the end of the third, she wished she had brought the water container. The sun was hot, the terrain rough and her thirst strong. Leaning against a huge rock, she took her hat off and fanned her face. Her stomach growled, reminding her that she had passed up breakfast, planning on eating with her brothers when they got home.

The sun rose higher, making shade harder to find. Her hat provided a circle of shade for her face, but it was not enough. Cassie’s legs were getting tired. Her feet tripped over rocks making her stumble and lose her balance. Thanks to her quick shuffling and doing a little dance, she was able to keep upright most of the time. The scratches and bruises began to hurt and itch in the heat. In the next mile her trips to the ground increased as her legs got more wobbly. Her pretty white apron showed the effects of hitting the dirt once too often.

Cassie had been paying so much attention to going forward that she forgot to give a little attention to where she had been. Her head started feeling a little fuzzy and her vision cloudy. Looking behind her toward what she thought was home didn’t appear familiar. She brushed aside her panic feelings. All she really needed was a drink of water. Ambrose Creek must be close by. Find the water and she’d have all she wanted to drink and plenty to soak her feet and wash the dirt off her legs. The thought of cool water made her feel better. She began her journey walking east toward Potsbey. Ambrose property was south of their place. She needed to angle more to the west. That was easy to do by turning her left shoulder to the sun. The sun was getting higher and she had trouble getting the sun on a specific part of her body.

Confused as to which direction was what, she paused. When in doubt she did what she had seen her father and brothers do. She wet her index finger and held it up in the air. Not sure what this was to accomplish she stood still for a second.

What direction am I suppose to go? she asked.

Responding to her question her finger suddenly bent, twitched, and finally pointed.

Cassie stared at the finger in awe certain she had done nothing to make it move. With the finger still pointing out she flipped her hand over and back several times. The finger only moved when she moved it. She licked the tip and held it above her head. The finger pointed straight up making no other movement.

This episode cleared away some of her heat related confusion, giving her a new burst of energy. She pulled the hand down, curled, and uncurled the finger a couple of times. This wasn’t the first time some quirky thing had happened to her. Ma always told her it was the little people playing their games. This wasn’t the same. She doubted the little people caused her finger action.

Filled with new vigor, she set off in the pointed direction, trusting it was the way to water. Home wasn’t that far away, she reassured herself. She could go back if she wanted. Or she could go ahead and find the fair. Besides, she was probably closer to the fair than home.

Find water… Find water…sounded the cadence of her footsteps. Unfortunately no water appeared. Cassie walked until she couldn’t take one more step. She dropped to the ground and quickly pulled her apron around so it would give added thickness between her skin and the earth. She pulled her knees up close to her chest and wrapped her arms around them. Now that she had a minute to think she began to question the wisdom of taking matters into her own hands. Not a pretty situation. She was hot. She was thirsty. She was hungry. And, she was probably lost. She was so miserable. This was typical Cassie, acting impulsively, always managing to get herself in a pickle. Ma said she was stubborn. Dah said it was just the red hair…always seemed to bring out the worst in girls. He always looked at Ma when he said that. That was the point when Ma would take a swing in his direction. The memory of those times made Cassie smile. Come to think of it, Ma always smiled too.

She closed her eyes and imagined bouncing along in the wagon with the boys, all of them laughing and singing on the way to the fair. Why couldn’t she have waited?

Maybe the boys would be along in the wagon and pick her up. Her heart sank. Not much hope for that. The boys didn’t know where she was. She hadn’t left them a note. Probably she was on the wrong path anyhow.

She pushed away the dejected feeling. Letting go of her knees, she stood up. As long as she had an ounce of strength left, she’d keep moving.

Won’t do any good to sit here and cry, she said, realizing that she couldn’t cry if she wanted because there was no moisture in her eyes for tears. She sniffed a couple of time to test it out.

After Cassie lost her hat to a sticky bush, the sun beat down with more intensity. She put her hands up on her head for a sun shield. She closed her eyes as she walked, depending on her feet to pick the way. She walked around in circles. What she didn’t see, she didn’t know. Even if she had been watching, she was beyond comprehending. Finally, her legs gave way and she crumpled to the ground. Her head grazed a jagged rock. A small pool of blood formed near her cheek. Cassie lingered in the smoky haze between daylight of reality and darkness of her mind. She opened her eyes, but her lids were so heavy. With no energy to move she just lay there. During one of the moments when her eyes opened she caught a glimpse of a bright blob of vivid color in the distance before the eyes closed again.

A short time passed before the partially covered wagon came bumping over the rocky soil. A young couple laughed as they bounced around on the seat. It was the woman who spied Cassie from the distance.

Stop, Romney! she cried. There is a person over there on the ground. A child!

Crazy, woman! he yelled. We are not stopping. Pretend that you see nothing. Whatever it is, it spells trouble for us. We are late already.

Of course we are stopping, you without a heart. If she is hurt, we will help.

Roshia stood up holding onto the back of the seat for balance.

I will not stop, you who have lost you mind! he yelled. I will protect you from yourself.

If you won’t stop, I will jump! she yelled back, poised to jump.

This horse he hissed, "will continue moving.

As she went over the edge he grabbed for her skirt with one hand. With the other he pulled hard on the reins.

By the time the wagon stopped, she had hit the ground, running toward Cassie.

Just remember I warned you. I begged you. As you sit behind those bars, just remember it was you who got us into this.

Romney pulled a blanket out of the back of the wagon and ran to Roshia’s side.

She looked at the blanket in his hand and smiled in approval as she turned Cassie over, grimacing in pain when she saw the cut on Cassie’s head. Bleeding children were always a bad sign. Cassie moaned. That was a good sign. Romney spread the blanket and Roshia moved Cassie over on it. Romney carefully folded the edges over around Cassie. He picked her up and gently carried her to the wagon. Roshia got into the back and he handed his bundle to her. She cradled Cassie on her lap as she rummaged through her bag and found a jar.

Meanwhile Romney filled a small crock with water and handed her a cloth. Roshia tenderly wiped Cassie’s face, being especially careful around her parched lips. She folded the wet cloth and laid it across Cassie’s forehead.

Roshia reached out to Romney and he passed her a cup with a liquid in it. Roshia touched the cup to Cassie’s lips, trickling a few drops of the contents into her mouth.

The dark complexion and rugged features of the man made him appear brooding as he watched in silence. He tended to frighten people easily. Roshia was doing what she did best. He loved her all the more for it, but she refused to understand that certain people were not grateful for her gifts. There was something unnerving in the way she looked at and touched the girl. Roshia had always enjoyed being around children, but this was different. The voice in his head urged them to abandon the girl and escape. He agreed with the advice. How much better it would have been for them if the sun had been glaring in Roshia’s eyes keeping her from seeing the girl Ah, but that would not have worked. Roshia’s feelers were always working. She could sense an emergency miles away.

Aiee! he muttered, slapping his head as he remembered. Not an hour ago, out of the clear blue, she had squeezed his thigh and said to him, Hurry, my driver husband. There is someone waiting for us up ahead.

He had laughed at her. Out here where it was deserted for miles. Surely no one would be out walking.

Roshia glanced at him and smiled. She knew what he was thinking.

Romney wondered if she could read minds… his mind. She never admitted being able to do such things. But that didn’t mean she couldn’t.

The little girl was perhaps six or seven. The risk of having her in their wagon was enormous. If someone came up on them, they would have no time to explain. These people jumped to misguided conclusions rapidly. His people had the reputation of stealing and that included the local inhabitants’ children. The truth was they had plenty of their own. What did they need with the ones they stole? It was just more mouths to feed. Granted, he and Roshia didn’t have any as yet, but sometime in the future they would.

His train of thought was broken by her hushed voice.

Romney, look, she is stirring.

Out of the hot sun, in the cool of the wagon, and with a tiny bit of water, Cassie began to revive. She woke to Roshia rubbing salve on the cuts and bruises on her legs and arms. She languished in the luxury of Roshia stroking her arms and legs. The relaxing feeling was one she seldom experienced. No one in her house had time for such foolishness. She wanted to lie there in the comfortable lap for a little longer, but the overwhelming desire for water drove her to open her eyes.

Come, little one, it is time you opened your eyes and joined us. You must be wanting a cup of water after all this. Roshia moved her arm to support Cassie’s back. Slowly, now, Roshia cautioned her.

Cassie opened her eyes and sat up with a start. Roshia held her back or she would have jumped to her feet. The first thing Cassie saw was Roshia’s bright costume.

Are we at the fair? she asked excitedly. Her head was still fuzzy and she was wobbly, but that was not important. The thought of finally being at the fair pushed everything else out of her head.

Was that where you were headed…to the fair? Roshia asked in return.

Yes, Cassie said as she stared at Roshia, the most beautiful woman Cassie had ever seen. Her dark wavy hair fell on her shoulders and midway down her back. Partially hidden under the hair were tiny bells on her earrings that tinkled each time she moved. Instead of dark brown eyes, she had deep set eyes that were deep green with little gold speckles that sparkled. Perfect white teeth dazzled each time Roshia smiled. Cassie fell under her spell immediately.

Roshia in turn fell under Cassie’s. She smiled as she reached up and brushed Cassie’s hair back from her face.

You were going in the wrong direction for one going to the fair, Chickeea, she said.

Romney, standing at the back of the wagon, stiffened at the sound of the word. He had a bad feeling about this and slapped his head. Aiii. Now my wife is calling this girl her daughter. Is my wife hatching a plan that will get us both hung?

Cassie, listening to Roshia, was confused. But, I was walking toward the sun. That was the way to get to Potsbey. How could I have been going the wrong way?

Romney swung his feet over the side and landed in the uncovered part of the wagon. He smiled at Roshia and then Cassie. I am Romney, and this is my head strong wife, Roshia. You probably started out with the sun over your left shoulder. As the sun rose higher in the sky, you got mixed up and had it on your right side. It is easy to do. He winked at Roshia as if to add, Especially if you have no sense of direction.

Roshia, understanding his meaning, gave him a look of haughty disdain. So, some people just aren’t as good as others when it comes to following the outward signs. So, I have gotten off the track once or twice. We usually got there. Some are truly better at listening to the inner voices. The voices never fail.

He squatted down near Cassie.

What is your name and why are you going to the fair alone? Where is your family?

Cassie frowned. What had seemed like a good idea earlier was not looking so good now. She felt a little foolish trying to explain her actions.

I’m Cassie, Cassandra. Ma, Dah, and Michael are at the fair. I was supposed to go with my brothers when they got home from work. They didn’t come and they didn’t come, so I decided to walk. Potsbey isn’t that far…I think.

Roshia grabbed her hand, not meaning to but appearing to scold. Do you have any idea how far that is for someone your size on foot? Especially on a hot day like this. That could take you a life time to walk. If we hadn’t come along, it could have cost you your life.

Cassie dropped her head, regretting doing anything to make this lady angry.

Roshia had caught Cassie’s hand with her palm resting against the back of Cassie’s. She now rolled her hand over matching her palm against Cassie’s palm and gently squeezed.

The effect of the two hands connecting was anything but gentle. The action set off a bolt of lightning that left both girls staring at each other in awe as an electrical charge flashed through Roshia and into the younger girl.

The surge flashed through Cassie’s hand, up the lower arm, and into her shoulder. At the first jab of pain she yanked her hand back breaking the connection, but not stopping the path of the current. With her unaffected hand she grabbed her shoulder and rubbed it. After shaking her hand first to get rid of the remaining tingle, she stared at it, expecting to see a burned place in the palm. There was no burn or blister. Unable to trust her eyes, she blew on the skin in case it still needed to be cooled. The hand was normal.

A light smile touched Roshia’s lips as she glanced at Cassie. She had experienced similar happenings in her life, but never to this level.

What was THAT? Cassie asked, stunned. Her voice shook. She was still in shock.

That rarely happens and when it does it will only happen once between two people. It shows that we have a connection that most don’t have. Roshia smiled as she handed Cassie the container for a drink.

Romney shook his head and in an exasperated whisper loud enough for Roshia to hear uttered a last ditch prayer. Oh, good and benevolent God, please send some sense to this loving, insane wife of mine, before she does something rash. She won’t listen to me. Please be gentle, if you can.

Roshia shot him a quick look. It said, ‘I know what I am doing. You know I can’t stop.’

Give me your hand, little one. Let me show you where we have been together. Come Chickeea, you can trust me. This won’t hurt at all. She held out her hand to Cassie.

Cassie pushed her hands back behind her.

How can you do that? she asked, her childish curiosity aroused, but still not sure of the trust issue.

It is easy. The lines on your hands tell not only your future, but your past and your present.

Romney climbed over them to get to the front seat. He took the reins. The sooner he got to the fair and unloaded his passenger, the better it would be for all of them.

Roshia acknowledged her awareness of his mood with a soft squeeze of his calf as he passed. Romney reigned as chief of their clan. His responsibilities centered around taking care of all his people. Their differences fell in interpretation of what constituted the clan. For him, it was a small group of family. For her, it was family and anyone she met who needed her help. He tolerated her extremes until it threatened their lives or those of the clan. It was time to leave her be and time for him to plan how they were going to bring this girl to her family without either of them being arrested for kidnapping.

Cassie slowly moved her hand out to inches from Roshia’s outstretched hand. She cautiously tapped the end of her finger against the other hand. When nothing earth shaking happened she reached a little farther. Roshia slid her hand under Cassie’s for support. It pleased her that Cassie had chosen to extend the one that held the past. Roshia always like to see what was, before reading what was to be.

Roshia traced the lines across the small hand. This is the life line, she said and she named off the others as she gingerly touched each small crevice and crack. Some wrinkles were deeper and longer than others. Cassie showed wide-eyed surprise that she had not noiced the criss-crosses and strange patterns before. The lines on one hand were more complex than the other.

The wagon bounced and jostled the two in the back. One bump sent Cassie across the width of the wagon. Roshia caught her and brought her back. She suspected that Romney was emphasizing his disapproval of her going ahead with a reading for Cassie by hitting every rock and hard place he could find.

This wagon is much too bouncy and rough. If the path doesn’t smooth out somewhat, someone will be eating a cold supper and sleeping on a lumpy bed.

That’s the way it is when you are looking out through bars, the gruff voice answered her back.

The ride got smoother regardless, and Roshia went back to her hand analysis.

Chickeea, for both our sakes, you must keep what I tell you to yourself. There are some who do not approve of what I do and say.

Cassie suddenly had a thought. Is this evil? she asked.

It is what you make it to be, Roshia told her. "If you want it to be evil, it is. If you want it to be good and helpful, it is. Do you understand why you must keep it secret?

Cassie nodded. A memory of little Danny Glover had flashed across her mind while Roshia talked. His parents claimed the devil had gotten inside his body and at a public meeting the church leaders tried to beat the bad out of him. She remembered how scared she had felt just watching. She didn’t think of Danny as being possessed by the devil. He was much like her brothers. Nobody claimed they were devil controlled. They were just being boys. He wouldn’t talk about the experience. He was a changed boy, never smiling or laughing again. Everyone blessed the church for saving him.

Roshia slowly began to tell Cassie her past. She pointed out three different places along the line where they had been together. Cassie found the thought of her living before amazing. No one had ever told her anything like that before. She shared several of her strange dreams with Roshia.

You were reliving some of past times. You carry memories in your soul, sort of a journal. At times those come to you in form of dreams. Do not be afraid of them.

Cassie was an apt pupil and pressed Roshia for answers to many questions. In between the questions Roshia told her of the future.

You will grow up to be a beautiful young lady, but not in this land. I see a larger city.

Surely, you are not saying I won’t live here. I like it here. I don’t want to move away from my family.

Don’t worry, she said. Your family will be with you. Roshia saw great family tragedy ahead, but that was not what you told a child. You will marry and become a mother. Your husband will be a handsome man, but he will not be romantic like my Romney. It will be an arranged marriage, but arranged marriages can be satisfactory. You will find love, but not within the bonds of marriage. Be wise with your heart. When pain comes, know that in time it will ease. You are a strong will, nothing will defeat you. Just trust your inner voice.

Cassie laughed. She had no plans for a husband for many years. There was much to do at home before then.

Roshia laughed with her. The years will pass quickly and you will be ready for your own home. She winked at Cassie. "You will see.

Roshia opened her little trunk and rummaged around. She pulled out bright colored clothing and pushed it aside until she found what was needed. Ah Ha! she said, holding up a green stone attached to a narrow black and red ribbon.

Here, Chickeea, wear this around your neck or keep it on your body. Its power of protection is strong. The stone will send your heart beat to me. I will always know when you are troubled and send special thoughts to you.

Cassie examined it. There was nothing magical looking about the dull stone. It was a present from her new friend and because of that, it was beautiful.

Oh! She said remorsefully.

You don’t like it? Roshia asked crestfallen.

Oh, no! Cassie told her. I love it! I’m sad because I don’t have a present for you.

Roshia sighed in relief. Not so. You give me much just letting us find you today.

No, I must give you something.

Cassie twisted the little ring on her finger that had belonged to her Grandmother. She loved this ring. She slipped it off her hand.

Here, she said putting the ring in Roshia’s hand. This was my grandmother’s, but I want you to have it. Maybe I will feel your heart beat, too.

Roshia took the ring with tears in her eyes. She knew this was very special.

"I accept your gift. I will treasure it always. My gift to you was also given to me by someone I loved very much.’

I will be very careful with it, Roshia. I will treasure it, too. She clasped her hand over the stone. Roshia, can I ask you a question?

Sure. That is called bloodstone. I don’t know why because the color is surely not of blood. Cassie was shaking her head. Ah, that is not what you wish to know?

That word you call me…Chickeea…what does it mean?

Roshia closed her eyes and took a deep breath.

In our last life together, you were my child and I often called you Chickeea. That means loved one. Do you remember that? Perhaps you might recall that you called me ‘Me-ma’.

Cassie closed her eyes attempting to think harder as she rolled the words around. Me-ma. Me-ma. Chickeea. There was something familiar about the words. They were not ones that she heard from her family, yet the well known sounds rattled around her brain.

Cassie took a corner of Roshia’s brightly colored skirt and rolled it between her thumb and index finger. That is so soft and pretty, she said with a touch of envy. Her clothes felt rough and the colors were never bright even when less worn.

Roshia scrutinized her dirty tattered dress. You could use some fresh things. Let me see what I have here in my box. Maybe we can find something for you.

Cassie stopped herself from refusing. She really liked the idea. But won’t they be too big? she asked.

Nothing that we can’t fix with a needle and thread, she laughed finding what she hunted.

Cassie saw the material as Roshia pulled the skirt and top from her box. Oh, it’s beautiful! she squealed, but it’s your good one. I can’t take that.

No, Chickeea, I am wearing my goodest one. This is a spare. Just right for my best friend.

She held first the blouse and then the skirt up to Cassie. Then Cassie watched as the nimble fingers flew with the needle and thread. Soon the alterations were done to Roshia’s satisfaction. She motioned for Cassie to remove her dress and wiggle into the new outfit. Roshia gave her a little comb to work out her tangles and then she put the comb in Cassie’s wavy hair.

They rode for awhile with Romney on the driver’s seat and Roshia and Cassie inside the wagon. Roshia answered Cassie’s questions as honestly as she could. Finally Roshia motioned for Cassie to follow her to the front of the wagon. She climbed over the seat and settled in next to Romney. She reached back and helped Cassie to the outside edge of the seat. Her first thoughts were to put Cassie beside Romney. Second thoughts said Romney may get a little difficult as they neared the fair. She needed to be beside him. So Cassie got the outside seat.

Cassie really didn’t care where she sat. This was so exciting…even better than the fair. Sitting there with the wind blowing through her hair, dressed in her fine colorful costume, she felt like a member of the clan.

We are like a family, she said happily snuggling in closer to Roshia.

The horses felt the sting as the whip cracked over their heads. Roshia gave Romney a sharp slap on his leg.

Much was going on in his head but he kept it to himself. Romney saw the wisdom of putting her out of the wagon before people realized she was with them. A feat made more difficult with the new clothes Cassie now wore.

Roshia would not hear of it. We are going to deliver Cassie safely to her parents.

Cassie adamantly proclaimed that she wanted them to meet her parents. Ma and Dah will want to thank you for rescuing me. They will love you as much as I do.

Thanks are not what we’ll be getting, Romney muttered under his breath.

Hush, my love, Roshia whispered, gently pinching his arm. I have to test the curse, you know I do.

I have seen crowds when one of us has had a missing child. It is not pretty. Mob madness knows no reasoning.

She opened up her pinching fingers to flatten her hand. She patted his arm. It will be alright. I feel it in my bones. She will not let me down.

Much as I trust your bones, my stomach is not sure. It is growling like it wants to tear me apart.

Roshia pictured the curse clearly in her mind. Over two hundrend years ago an angry Elena, mother of a disgraced son, jealous of Roshia’s daughter, had flung a curse at her that in the future her child would betray her at the time Roshia needed her most.

Roshia had uttered every curse reversal she knew, calling on all her female ancestors to intercede for her in the hope that together they could undo what Elena had put in motion. Before Roshia had gotten the first counter word out of her mouth Elena had said the one word that made reversing the curse almost impossible. The only way of knowing whether they had been successful or at least lessened the effect would be for her and Cassie to be in the actual situation. If she had to give her life for this child that had once been her child, so be it.

Roshia put her arm around Cassie.

Chickeea, Romney has a growling belly. What do you think we need to do for it?

Cassie bent forward and leaned across Roshia toward Romney.

Oh, he probably just needs a grubic tonic.

Roshia’s jaw dropped. You’re right, she said amazed. How would you know that, Chickeea? That’s not something found around here.

I don’t know, she answered. It just came out. She wrinkled her nose. I don’t even know what it is, but I think it is pretty horrible.

A smile of satisfaction lingered on Roshia’s face for just a second as she gave Romney a jab in the side. She began to hum lowly.

Cassie began to slowly move to the tune.

Do you remember that? Roshia asked.

Roshia sang louder and changed the hum to words.

Cassie concentrated and then shook her head. No, but it sounds nice.

Let it rest, Romney said. Don’t push too hard.

Roshia threw back her head and laughed; then began singing louder. Romney joined in. The song was simple and before long Cassie had caught on to the words and joined in. It was exhilarating for Roshia each time Cassie did something that tied her back to the daughter of years ago. The bond between them was strengthening.

Cassie bounced around on the seat as she sang, her joy radiating. Her sore spots forgotten, her family forgotten, even the fair that had caused her to have such a bad morning was forgotten. Sitting there with Romney and Roshia she felt a happiness like she had never experienced in her short life. Roshia’s arm around her shoulders seemed so familiar and right. The three of them were family. The thought even crossed her mind of wishing this could last forever.

I wish… she started to say, but was stopped when Roshia put her finger across Cassie’s lips.

I know, Chickeea, I know, Roshia said, but always be careful of what you wish. Wishes do come true and not always to our expectations. Learn to enjoy the moments you have. The moments may not last, but memories will. Just remember, too, that it is better to have happiness even for a short time, than for no time at all. Don’t be afraid to love, even if the cost is heavy.

Cassie looked at her friend, puzzled. What do you mean, Roshia? I don’t understand.

Roshia took Cassie’s face between her palms and tilted it upward. Roshia had tears in her eyes that she tried to will away.

It is hard for you to understand at this time of your life. You will love many times, already you have your ma and pa and brothers. There will be friends, and a husband, and children. Love them all. Their time on earth may be long or short. Don’t focus on what they may have or not have, just make your time together count. Don’t fill your life with what you should have done, those regrets only rob you. Look at us. We are here together for a short time in this life. I treasure each moment that we have. I hope you do, too.

Oh, I do! Cassie exclaimed. How could Roshia think otherwise? I’ll always remember you. We’ll be able to spend more time together, won’t we?

Roshia cast a side glance at Romney. Romney was shaking his head, his eyes closed. Roshia got the message. There was no gap in his decision for her to argue or plead.

Oh, Chickeea, Romney and I must keep on traveling. Our life is not one for staying in any one place for a long time. Growing roots is not for us. She laughed. Besides, there is so much of the world that we have not visited yet. Our goal is to see it all.

The laugh didn’t sound like a happy one to Cassie, but she must be wrong. Roshia and Romney seemed extremely happy.

The fairgrounds were now visible. Cassie’s excitement at finally getting here made it difficult for her to sit still on the seat. Roshia tried to control hers. Romney couldn’t say which of the girls was happier. He ran his fingers around the back of his neck loosing his collar trying to settle the tingling muscles. The noose was getting closer and tighter.

Cassandra, now just where do you expect to find your folks in the middle of this big crowd? Romney asked.

Much as she tried to hide it, suddenly, to be this close was scary. Before her were so many people and so many booths. Just this morning she had helped Ma stash in the wagon the curtains to be used around their booth. She tried to remember the cloth color. What was just hours ago seemed like years. The booths she could see were decorated similar to one another. Now she understood what Ma meant when she’d say ‘it was like looking for a needle in a haystack’.

Romney mentioned again the wisdom of putting her out of the wagon before people realized she was with them. Roshia and Cassie had not changed their minds.

Romney muttered a few more of his misgivings under his breath.

Roshia tweeked his nose. You worry too much, my husband.

Romney parked the wagon under a shady tree. The people milling around turned their attention to the newcomers. Romney understood the not-so-friendly looks.

I will stay with the horses, Romney said to Roshia as he smiled at Cassie. You girls can go find the little one’s family.

There was no denying he was on guard. Roshia knew it was impossible to ease his fears. She felt a rush of excitement that was not fear. Something important was about to happen. Something set in motion years ago. Her heart beat rapidly. Very few people were privileged to experience what she was. Very few people got to see the results of a curse and the counter curse from a previous lifetime come to fruit in their current lifetime. Most people repressed memories of the past, so when the accountability happened they only felt the effect without knowing the cause. She was so lucky. She had found her daughter and she prepared herself for consequences of the meeting.

Sham pulled the wagon to a halt near the pump. Andy and Tom jumped down first to get the bucket to water the horse. Puzzled that she was not outside waiting for them, Garrett hopped out to go check inside for her. Evan took a quick turn around the outside of the house while he picked up food for the horse from the shed.

The boys gathered back at the wagon. Cassie’s not here, Sham, Garrett said.

Sham gave a motion of his hand and all five of the boys took off in different directions for the search. It was not the first time they had been called into action to hunt their sister.

Right now each one of them shared a felt, but unspoken concern for Cassie’s safety.

When it was obvious there was no trace to be found, Sham whistled them back to the house. She may have gotten a ride to the fair, he said. Or she may have decided to walk. If she walked, she probably followed the road. That would get her to Staffe, but not Potsby. Let’s head to town and see if anyone has seen her and then we’ll go on to the fair. Only our sister would do something like this. When we catch up to her, she’s going to get a piece of my mind.

Mine too, added Andy, Tom, and Evan. Garrett just wanted to know she was safe.

No one in Staffe had seen her. Quietness hung over the wagon as it rolled on toward Potsbey. Upon their arrival there was no Cassie enjoying the fair to receive their brotherly wrath.

Ma’s first instinct was to drop everything and go look for Cassie. Dah settled them down, sending the boys back home to hunt for her along the way. With heavy heart and promising Ma to find her, the boys climbed back in the wagon. Dah, Ma, and Michael stayed at the fair to finish selling in the hopes that she would show up soon.

Beirra wrung her hands in despair as she watched the cart pull away. Clasped tightly in her right hand was her cross. The Angels were watching over her daughter. She had to believe that. She accepted the blame for Cassie’s rash act. Knowing how much Cassie wanted to get to the fair and knowing what a headstrong daughter she had birthed, Beirra should have made room on the cart. That way she could have supervised. She offered a short prayer up to Saint Anne, Cassie’s personal protector.

The distraught mother looked up to sky with her eyes squeezed shut and whispered, you have been with me through my good times and bad. You gave me hope when the fever took my two babies. You have given me a beautiful daughter. Please keep her safe now when she needs your help. If this is punishment for something I have done or not done, please, she begged, don’t make my baby pay. I promise to do better with her if you will bring her home safe. I will make whatever amends that it takes.

Word spread throughout the fairgrounds that the McClerron child was missing. Volunteers came to offer their services either to launch a search team or to take over the stall so the family could go look themselves. Beirra and Michael worked quickly to pack the last of their wares. Erid managed to work a deal with one of the other vendors to buy the rest of their sale items for a fraction of their value.

Cassie jumped down from the wagon and grabbed Roshia’s hand as soon as she dismounted. She twirled around in her skirt. She did so love the feel of the material as it rippled against her legs. This was the fair. She quietly made the transition from being part of the gypsy family back to her own. Her eyes widened at the gaily decorated stalls and the brightly dressed vendors and customers. It was everything she had dreamed. She wanted to stop and look at all the pretties, but first she must find Ma and Dah. By now they were probably wondering where she was. Cassie searched for the familiar until she finally caught a glimpse of the stall. Ma was packing things.

Ma! Cassie cried at the sight of her mother. She dropped Roshia’s hand and ran with skirt flying toward Beirra.

Beirra heard the cry of her daughter and looked in the direction of the sound. It was not Cassie she saw, but some wild child with flying red hair, dressed in a vivid outfit, running toward her. It took a split second before she realized it was indeed Cassie. She rushed to meet her, a look of joy and relief on her face, her hand pressing her cross into the valley between her breasts. Thank you, St. Anne. Thank you, St. Francis, she breathed as she ran. She grabbed Cassie and held her for just a moment, then pushed her away. The expression had changed.

My ungrateful daughter, do you not realize the anguish you brought to your family by running off? Your brothers are right now out scouring the countryside for you. Your father and I have been frantic.

Cassie’s tears spilled over her cheeks. I’m sorry, she mumbled.

The word spread fast. The little girl is back. Tell her pa. She’s with gypsies. It’s ransom they’ll be wanting.

Beirra hands rubbed over the lump on Cassie’s forehead and the cuts and scrapes on her face. What’s this? she demanded.

Roshia remained a few feet behind Cassie. She had watched Beirra’s face light up with joy and relief, and then go dark with dismay. Her heart jumped a beat. It was the clothing. She should never have dressed Cassie in her clothes. The two of them were having such fun with the dress; she never stopped to think of the consequences.

I fell, Cassie explained, the words tumbling out. I decided to walk to the fair and I got turned around. I kept walking until I couldn’t walk anymore. It was so hot. Then I got dizzy and fell. That’s when Roshia and Romney found me and took care of me.

What’s this I hear? Dah yelled. Cassie is found! She’s okay.

He broke through the crowd to see his daughter dressed in wild colored clothes encircled by her ma and a gypsy lady. The tension surrounding them was strong. He quickly assessed the situation. Crowds had a habit of being unpredictable. He didn’t want his family to be the reason any one got out of line.

Folks, he said addressing the group, my family and I thank you for your support and good wishes. My daughter is back and looks to be in good health. I ask you to go back to your business now. We can take care of things here. There is no need for anything unpleasant to ruin this fine day. He nodded his head in the direction of the people. Thank you. Thank you.

Some moved away, but some did not. Bits of the conversations drifted back to him.

Maybe they got their child back. The next family may not be so lucky.

Erid was more than a little nervous. He knew these people. They got upset quickly and acted foolishly.

Cassie did so want her ma and Roshia to be friends. Dah was taking care of the people, so this seemed like a perfect time for her to make them acquainted.

Ma, this is… Cassie started to introduce Roshia.

I know what she is, Ma cut in, her tone openly hostile.

Roshia tried not to flinch. Poor Cassie. Her two mothers would never be friends. Not in this lifetime.

Roshia smiled and did a little curtsey. I am honored to meet Cassie’s mother. You are very fortunate to be the mother of a wonderful daughter like Cassie. If I had a daughter, I would want her to be just like Cassie.

Beirra bit back the cutting words she had to say. There was sincerity about Roshia that softened her feelings toward the stranger. The change of heart surprised her.

Dah stayed near the stragglers. The twenty or so watching could quickly get ugly. He couldn’t argue with much of what they were saying. The fear of gypsies had been instilled in most of them at a young age. Don’t trust them, the elders taught. They rob, they lie, and worst of all—they will steal your children.

He wasn’t sure yet that they were blameless in Cassie’s disappearance. Knowing his impulsive daughter, she probably left the house on her own, trying to find the fair.

Crazy Lute started the trouble. Hey! he called, I speak for all of us when I say we need to send these people on their way, but not without a lesson they won’t forget. Make them think twice about the next time they see one of our children.

Lute counted on at least four or five others in the mass to agree with him or just want to do some head bashing for the fun of it. He wasn’t disappointed. The agreeing answers came quickly.

Yes, this is our town. Let’s run them out.

Yes! Yes!

Lute grabbed several sturdy walking sticks on display at the stall next to him. The owner had other uses in mind when he carefully whittled them out. It was not his intention to let this mob take his sticks without at least paying for them. He was shoved out of the way when he opened his mouth to protest.

Wait! Dah screamed to make himself heard. This is not the way. Let them leave peacefully.

They can leave after we let them know they aren’t welcome here, Lute yelled, waving his followers on.

Romney had moved the wagon closer when he saw the situation getting more serious.

All eyes turned toward the advancing group. Cassie’s protective instinct kicked in and she stepped closer to Roshia. Ma was trying to get Cassie and Michael to go back to the stall. Both ignored her, Michael moved in beside Cassie. He had sworn to protect his sister, a responsibility he took to heart.

Romney stepped up beside Roshia shielding her other side. She smiled. If she was frightened by the mob attitude she gave no sign.

Silence! he ordered, jumping up on a box to make him taller. His dark eyes grew even darker as he squared himself to face the fairgoers who were no longer in a partying mood, but then, neither was Romney.

In Cassie’s eyes he had grown inches taller and bulked out presenting a very powerful and domineering front. Her eyes nearly popped out of her head when she saw the large, threatening knife that was now tucked in open view in his waist band.

Before you lay a hand on this woman, there are two things you should know. One, I have vowed to protect her even to my death. I must also warn you that she is the daughter of Avid of the North. You do not want to anger her clansmen. Double what you have heard of them and it will be true. Touch one hair on her head and they will descend on your town and take their revenge. Let her leave in peace and they will act in kind. She has rescued this child from what would have been sure death had we not come along and helped her. My wife wants nothing more than to reunite her with her family, which she had done. Now it is time we were on our way.

Dah had claimed his place behind his two children, placing a hand on each of their shoulders. This couple who had rescued his daughter had his support.

Avid’s reputation was wide spread. There was a thunk of sticks as some of the faint of heart lost their taste for battle. Lute stared at Romney, his eyes not missing the knife. It was Romney’s eyes that drove the fear into him. They burned into his eye sockets like a branding iron all the way to his brain. He couldn’t turn away if he wanted. The sound behind him of his army deserting took his desire for fight. The crowd drew back clearing a narrow path for Roshia and Romney to their wagon. Scattered angry murmurs could still be heard.

Cassie wanted to break away from her father’s grasp