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- Herausgeber: Next Chapter
- Kategorie: Gesellschafts- und Liebesromane
- Sprache: Englisch
Books 11-15 in Betty McLain's 'Love's Magic' series of sweet and wholesome romance, now available in one volume!
Love's Obsession: The mirror showed a girl her true love. Girls rushed to check their reflection, hoping to see if the stories were true. Not Doris. She had no interest in finding her true love. Derrick said he loved her, but when she did not return his feelings, his so-called love turned into an obsession that took the lives of her mother and step-father. Mark Black Feather was pleasantly surprised to see the magic mirror reveal the face of his true love. He never expected she’d be unhappy to see him, or that her life would be in danger from a madman. Can true love grow surrounded by tragedy and danger, or will one man’s obsession end their love before it can truly begin?
Love's Memory: Silas watched his family grow larger from all the marriages and children. He wondered when his time would come, but a part of his mind couldn’t let go of a memory from long ago, of a beautiful girl. He called her his woodland sprite, but where had she gone, and would he ever see her again? May struggled against the unwanted advances of the man her mother wanted her to marry. She did not love him. Her memories were full of the vision of a boy she loved from afar, but her family had left that place long ago. She never expected to see him again, especially not in the reflection of the magic mirror.
Love's Gamble: Widowed at a young age and left to raise a baby by herself, Lanie was abandoned by her family when she needed them the most. She worked two full time jobs to make ends meet. But she had her son. For her, that was enough. Then, as her fragile world began to crumble around her, a stranger swept in with the promise of a better life. Marcel knew all about true love. His family was full of stories of how magical the bond could be and how unexpectedly it could appear in one's life, so when he met the young waitress on his way back home, he recognized their connection instantly. Seeing her struggle, he opened his home and heart to Lanie and her son. But can she learn to trust in a future of hope and love, when the past has been so bleak?
Love's Plea: Charise got together with her closest friends to have a good time and prepare for the wedding. But this restaurant was special: it showcased one of the three magic mirrors, capable of showing a girl her true love. All the girls took their turns at the mirror, and then it was Charise’s turn. But what do you do when you are the bride, and the reflection you see in the mirror is not that of your soon to be husband?
Love's Promise: Mona could use a little magic in her life. With a sick mom, younger siblings to look after, and a stepfather who worked hard to make ends meet, her life was far from magical. Those she knew who met their true love through the mirror saw a promise of a brighter future. Mona looked in the mirror time and again, with no luck. She saw a reminder of her own loneliness and dismal life. Then, one day, the image changed.
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Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2023
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LOVE'S MAGIC COLLECTION
BOOKS 11-15
BETTY MCLAIN
CONTENTS
Love’s Obsession
Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6
Chapter 7
Chapter 8
Chapter 9
Chapter 10
Chapter 11
Chapter 12
Chapter 13
Chapter 14
Love’s Memory
Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6
Chapter 7
Chapter 8
Chapter 9
Chapter 10
Chapter 11
Chapter 12
Chapter 13
Chapter 14
Chapter 15
Love’s Gamble
Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6
Chapter 7
Chapter 8
Chapter 9
Chapter 10
Chapter 11
Chapter 12
Chapter 13
Chapter 14
Chapter 15
Love’s Plea
Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6
Chapter 7
Chapter 8
Chapter 9
Chapter 10
Chapter 11
Chapter 12
Chapter 13
Chapter 14
Chapter 15
Love’s Promise
Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6
Chapter 7
Chapter 8
Chapter 9
Chapter 10
Chapter 11
Chapter 12
Chapter 13
Chapter 14
Chapter 15
Chapter 16
Next in the Series
About the Author
Copyright (C) 2023 Betty McLain
Layout design and Copyright (C) 2023 by Next Chapter
Published 2023 by Next Chapter
Cover art by CoverMint
This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, or persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.
All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without the author’s permission.
LOVE’S OBSESSION
LOVE’S MAGIC BOOK 11
This book is dedicated to the unlucky ones who have had to deal with Obsessive love.
Obsession is not love. It is an illness. Being the focus of obsession is frightening.
The ones who break free are lucky. There are many who are not so lucky.
CHAPTER1
Doris Tims was strolling down the sidewalk in Rolling Fork. She was on her lunch break from her job at the coffee shop. The Gallery was next and, on a whim, she decided to go in. She spotted two girls looking in the magic mirror. Doris frowned. The last thing she needed was someone else thinking he was in love with her.
Doris walked around looking at the displays. She was enjoying the quiet. When she turned around, she saw the girls were gone and she was standing by the magic mirror. She looked down at the mirror, and the face of Officer Mark Black Feather appeared in the mirror. He looked back at her and smiled. Doris knew him because she had seen him at the coffee shop. They had never spoken to each other because one of the other waitresses always hurried to take his order.
Mark smiled at the familiar face in the mirror. He had noticed her before, but had not had a chance to get to know her. “Hello,” he said.
Doris stood there, stunned. She did not know what to say. She just stood there looking at Mark.
“Are you alright?” Mark asked with concern.
Doris shook her head and, still without saying anything, hurried out of The Gallery. When she was outside, she hurried along the sidewalk in the direction of the coffee shop. Suddenly she heard the sound of a motorcycle engine racing. She looked up, startled. Derrick Bolin was riding his motorcycle on the sidewalk, and he was headed straight for her. Before she could do anything, she felt herself lifted and carried to the side away from the advancing motorcycle. Derrick drove back onto the road and roared away down the road. Doris had her face buried in the chest of her rescuer.
Mark Black Feather had been in the store next to The Gallery when he had looked into a mirror and saw Doris. When she reacted the way she did, he had hurried outside to see if he could catch her and see what was wrong. When he had seen the motorcycle headed straight for her, his heart was in his throat. He ran to grab her out of the way before she could be hit.
“Are you okay?” asked Mark leaning away and looking down at Doris.
Doris looked up and shivered. She stared into Mark Black Feather’s concerned face and sighed. “Thank you for saving me. Derrick almost got me this time,” she said.
“You know the person on the motorcycle?” asked Mark.
“Yes, it was Derrick Bolin. He saw me and decided he wanted me. I told him no. He would not take no. He started harassing me. I reported him to the police, but they could not do anything without proof. Then my parents were killed in a drive-by shooting. I know his gang was responsible, but I can’t prove it. So again, nothing was done; now, he has decided if he can’t have me, no one else will.”
All the time she had been talking, Mark had held onto her and listened. When she stopped talking, Mark took out his radio and called the police station.
“This is Officer Black Feather. I just witnessed an attempted vehicular homicide. A motorcycle tried to run down a young woman on the sidewalk in front of The Gallery. The rider of the motorcycle was Derrick Bolin.” He went on to describe the motorcycle and give its tag number. “I want an arrest warrant issued for Bolin at once.”
Doris watched in amazement as he returned his radio to his belt and smiled at her. “Do you think they will get him?” asked Doris.
“Yes, they will get him, but you are still in danger, and his gang members may come after you when they find out he has been arrested. You have to be kept somewhere safe until he is taken care of,” said Mark.
“I can’t go to a safehouse,” said Doris scowling. “I have a sister and brother I have to take care of. If I disappear, the CPS will take them away from me. I may not be able to get them back.”
“We will go and pick up your sister and brother, and I know just the place to take you where you all will be safe. We have to go by the police station first and sign the complaint against Derrick. A judge has to sign off on the warrant.”
Mark took her arm and led her to his car. He was not on duty, so he was in his personal car. Doris let him help her into his car and sat quietly while he reached across and fastened her seat belt. Mark smiled at her for reassurance and hurried around and got into the drivers’ seat.
After a quick stop at headquarters, where Mark quickly told his story and signed the proper papers, he led Doris back out to his car and headed for the school.
Doris went in and signed her sister and brother out. She told the school there was a family emergency. She was waiting outside the office when Orin and Sarah appeared. She quickly explained they had to leave for a while and led them out to Mark’s car.
She gave Mark her address, and he drove them by their house so they could pack some clothes and the kids could get their favorite toys. When Orin and Sarah were occupied with their packing, Mark drew Doris aside and told her to be sure and pack all of their important papers.
“If it is alright with you, I am going to have a couple of friends of mine come by and pack up your house and put everything in storage. It will take a while for Derrick to go to trial, and his friends will be looking for ways to intimidate you. They will ransack your house and destroy everything in it, and sometimes they will burn the house. If it is in storage, you will have your things when this is all over.”
Doris looked up at him with tears in her eyes, but with a determined look on her face. “Thank you, Officer Black Feather. I appreciate all you are doing for me. Please have everything stored as soon as possible.”
Mark took out his phone and called his cousins on the reservation. He made arrangements for them to come out at once and pack up the house and store it all in a storage shed at his folks’ house. When he hung up the phone, he found Doris and her siblings finished packing and ready to go. Doris handed him the key to the door, and they started out to Mark’s car.
While they were putting their stuff in the trunk of the car, two trucks stopped and Mark’s cousins arrived. “Doris, this is Jamie Long Feather and his brother Silas. Fellows, this is Doris Tims and Orin and Sarah.”
They all said hello, and Mark gave them the key to the house. The brothers headed for the house, and Mark ushered everyone into his car. Orin and Sarah were in the back seat and Doris was in the front with Mark. Mark smiled at Doris and squeezed her hand before starting the car.
“I haven’t even asked you where we are going,” said Doris.
“Somewhere you will be safe and protected. I’m taking you to my folks on the reservation.”
Doris looked startled. “Are you sure they won’t mind?” she asked.
“They will be pleased to help. Now, why don’t you call the coffee shop and tell them you have to go out of town on a family emergency,” said Mark.
Doris flushed. “I forgot all about the coffee shop. I should have been back from my lunch break an hour ago.” She quickly called the coffee shop and talked to the manager. After she hung up the phone, she leaned her head back against the seat and closed her eyes for a minute.
“Did they give you a hard time?” asked Mark.
“No, he told me they may have to fill my position if I’m away too long. I can understand. I have no idea how long it will take to have Derrick taken care of, and I have to make sure Orin and Sarah are not hurt by him or his friends.”
“They will not hurt any of you,” said Mark determinedly.
Doris smiled. She had hope. The first glimmer of hope she had seen since the death of her parents, and it was all because of Mark Black Feather. According to the magic mirror, he was her true love. So much had happened; she had pushed the magic mirror to the back of her mind. Now, since things had quieted, it popped back up.
She looked over at Mark. She saw him checking his mirrors. “What is it? Is someone following us?”
“I don’t think so. I have been going a roundabout way, so I could check on followers. So far, I have not seen any sign of anyone. I’m hoping we took care of things fast enough to keep the gang from being aware of our plans,” Mark smiled reassuringly.
“Officer Black Feather,” said Doris.
“Mark, please, Officer Black Feather is such a mouthful.” Mark flashed another smile.
Doris smiled. “Mark, I am so glad you were there when Derrick tried to run over me. If not for your quick action, I would not have made it. Thank you.”
“You don’t have to thank me. I hope we have a chance to get to know each other, but I will not put any pressure on you, so relax.”
Doris relaxed for the first time in a while and smiled at Mark. “I would like to get to know you better,” she said.
Mark turned into the reservation and started toward the roads leading to his parents’ home. It took about thirty minutes of driving on the reservation to get to the Black Feather family home. There were several children playing in the yard, and they all called out to Mark when they saw his car. When he got out, they came running, calling out, “Uncle Mark.”
Doris exited the car and smiled to see Mark’s interaction with his nieces and nephews. Orin and Sarah left the car and came to Doris’s side. She put an arm around each of them and hugged them close.
Mark started toward them but stopped when an older lady came out of the house. He turned and hurried up to her, giving her a hug and greeting her. He quickly explained why he was there and how Doris and her siblings needed a safe place to stay.
“Good,” said Daisy Black Feather. “Moon Walking told me to get ready for your lady and her family yesterday.”
Mark shook his head and walked with his mother to where Doris, Orin, and Sarah were standing.
Daisy came right up to Doris and took her hand. “Welcome to our home. I have rooms prepared for you. We will keep you safe. You have nothing to worry about. Come in and I will get you settled.”
Doris was so surprised she followed without question. When Mark started walking beside her, she looked up at him in question. “How did she know to have rooms ready for us?” she asked.
“Moon Walking told her to be ready yesterday,” replied Mark.
“Yesterday, everything only happened today,” said Doris.
Mark shrugged his shoulders. “Moon Walking always knows. We have all learned to pay attention when she tells us something needs to be done.”
“Yeah, I have heard stories about Moon Walking. She is a legend in her own time,” agreed Doris.
They reached the porch, and Doris reached back for Orin and Sarah to usher them inside. Mark entered with his arm around Doris’s shoulder. He was trying to reassure her.
“Mom, this is Doris Tims. The youngsters are Orin and Sarah. Doris, this is my mom, Daisy Black Feather,” said Mark.
“I am pleased to meet you, Miss Tims,” said Daisy.
“Please call me Doris. I am very happy to meet Mark’s mom,” said Doris.
“I have fixed a room for you to share with Sarah. Orin can share with my grandson Joey. He is staying with us while his mother delivers his baby sister.” Daisy led the way to the bedrooms. She left Orin in a room with a boy about his age and continued down the hall to another room with a large bed for Doris and Sarah.
“This is lovely,” said Doris, looking around at the spacious bedroom.
“I am glad you are pleased,” said Daisy looking very satisfied.
“It is a beautiful room. I am sure we will be fine here,” said Doris.
They left their things in the room and went back to the living room.
“I am going to have to get back to town,” said Mark. “I need to check on how things are going. I want to see if they have arrested Derrick yet.”
“I was hoping you would stay for supper,” said Daisy.
“Couldn’t you call and check on how things are going?” asked Doris.
Mark looked down at Doris’s anxious face and took out his phone. He went outside to call. Sometimes they did not get the best phone reception on the reservation. The front desk put him through to the Captain. “Michaels,” James barked into the phone.
Mark smiled. “Black Feather,” he said.
“Mark,” said James in a far more pleasant voice. “What’s going on? I heard you issued an arrest warrant for Derrick Bolin.”
“Yes, I saw him try to run down Doris Tims with his motorcycle. Luckily I was able to get to her in time to stop him from hitting her. Do you know if he has been arrested, yet?’ asked Mark.
“No, his gang is hiding him, but we will get him. Is Doris safe?” asked James.
“Yes, I have her and her brother and sister on the reservation. I don’t want anyone else to know where they are at. I had everything in their house put in storage so the gang can’t get to it.” said Mark.
“I won’t say anything to anyone, and I will make sure it is not in any of our records. Why don’t you take a few days off and keep an eye on the situation. You can set up guards for them,” said James.
“I think I will,” said Mark. “By the way, Doris saw me in the magic mirror.”
“I hope everything works out for the two of you.” Mark could hear the smile in his voice.
“Me, too,” agreed Mark as he hung up the phone.
Mark went back inside and smiled at Doris. “Derrick has not been picked up. His gang is covering for him, but we will get him.”
“I hope so,” replied Doris.
“The captain told me to take a few days off and look after you,” said Mark.
“Good,” said Daisy. “I will go and put supper on the table.”
“Can I help?” asked Doris.
“No,’ said Daisy, waving her hand. “You stay and keep Mark company. I do not want him in the kitchen until supper is ready. He always tries to sneak samples before meals.”
Doris laughed and Mark made a face. “Mothers never let you forget anything,” he replied.
“I know what you mean,” agreed Doris. “My mom was the same way.” She sobered as she thought about never having her mom tease her again.
Mark quickly came to her side and pulled her close for comfort. “How long has it been since the shooting?” he asked.
“It’s been three months. It feels like yesterday. Sarah still has nightmares about it. She was inside the house when they drove by shooting. Mom and Alfred were getting the groceries out of the car. They never had a chance. If we are driving and a car backfires, Sarah will duck down and hide.”
“It is going to take time. We have a very good person here on the reservation she can talk to. She has helped a lot of little ones when they suffer some trauma. Maybe she can help Sarah,” suggested Mark.
“Maybe, we will see,” agreed Doris.
She realized she was still standing with Mark’s arms around her and eased back slightly. It felt so right to be held by him that she hated to move. She looked up into his face and smiled. Mark smiled back and, leaning forward, kissed her lightly on her forehead.
Doris sighed and, pulling away slowly, went over and sat on the sofa. She looked around and then got back up and started going around looking at pictures. Mark started following her explaining who was in the pictures. When they came to a picture of Mark as a little boy holding a large bat trying to play ball with his older brothers, Doris laughed out loud. Mark looked insulted at first, then he smiled at the first real laugh he had heard from Doris.
“You were adorable,” she said.
“Yes, he was,” agreed Daisy, coming into the room. “Call the children in for supper,” she told Mark.
“I had better call Orin and Sarah,” said Doris.
“They are outside playing with the others,” said Daisy.
Doris smiled. She had not even noticed the children going out; she had been so involved with Mark.
Mark called, “Supper is ready,” out the front door, and kids started piling in, bringing Orin and Sarah with them. They all headed for the bathroom to wash their hands without being told.
Mark came over and, putting his arm around Doris, guided her into the supper table. They all took their seats. Some of the kids made room for Orin and Sarah. Mark held his mom’s chair and then seated Doris beside his chair.
All of the children bowed their heads and held hands as Mark said a brief prayer of thanks. They were a happy family enjoying a meal together.
CHAPTER2
The next morning, Daisy was getting Joey ready for the school bus when there was a knock on the door. When Mark opened the door, he found Moon Walking there.
“Good morning, come in,” said Mark with a smile.
Moon Walking graciously came inside and smiled at Doris. “I wanted to catch you early before the bus came. I have made arrangements for the young ones to attend class at the reservation school as observers. It will be good for them to be occupied, and all of the children can learn from each other,” said Moon Walking.
Doris turned to Orin and Sarah. “Would you like to go to class with Joey?” Both children nodded vigorously. “Okay, I don’t see why not, as long as you want to go,” she said to the smiling children. Joey was smiling just as big as Orin and Sarah.
“I have their lunches here,” said Daisy. She brought two more lunch boxes to give to Orin and Sarah. The children accepted them eagerly, and everyone hurried outside as the school bus blew its horn. Doris watched as they loaded onto the bus and waved from a window as the bus pulled away.
“Do not worry about them. I have instructed a counselor to meet the bus and be sure the children are okay. She will keep an eye on them throughout the day,” explained Moon Walking.
“Thank you,” said Doris.
“I want you and your family to have a pleasant time here with us. You are always welcome here with us. It is always a pleasure to have one of our own meet their true love,” said Moon Walking.
“You believe in the magic mirror?” asked Doris.
“Of course, there are many mysteries in the world. We have to accept help when it is offered, even if the help comes in the form of a face in a mirror,” explained Moon Walking.
Moon Walking took Doris’s hand and squeezed it. “You will be alright. You will come out of your troubles stronger than ever. Mark Black Feather is your destiny. He will not let anything happen to you.” Doris flushed slightly and glanced up at Mark, who was smiling at her. “Now I have to go. I want to welcome the newest member to our tribe. Mark, you can drive me to your brother’s house to meet his new daughter,” said Moon Walking.
“Sure,” agreed Mark with a quick smile for Doris and his mother; he followed Moon Walking outside.
“Is she always like that?” asked Doris after Moon Walking and Mark were gone.
“Sometimes it is worse,” said Daisy. “Sometimes she talks in riddles, and it is hard to understand what she is trying to tell us. She was very clear this time.”
“Wow,” said Doris. “I met the famous Moon Walking.”
Daisy laughed and turned toward the kitchen. “I have breakfast on the table. With the kids and Mark gone, we can sit down and enjoy our morning coffee,” she said.
Doris followed her with a laugh. “I guess some things are universal no matter where you live,” she said.
Mark’s brother, Logan, was sitting on the front porch as Mark stopped in front of his house and helped Moon Walking out of his car. Logan rose and came down to meet them with a big smile.
“Hello, Moon Walking,” he said. He gave Mark a big hug,
“Are Willow and the baby okay?” asked Mark.
“Of course,” answered Moon Walking before Logan could say anything.
Both men looked at each other with a smile and shrugged their shoulders.
“Come in and meet my new daughter,” said Logan.
Moon Walking and Mark followed him inside. They quietly made their way to the crib where the baby lay. They did not want to disturb Willow, who was sleeping.
“She’s beautiful,” said Mark.
They all turned and went back out to the porch.
“You will have your hands full with her,” said Moon Walking. “Be prepared to chase the braves away when she reaches her teens. She is not meant for a simple life. She has great things in store for her. Keep our little Camille safe,” said Moon Walking.
“How did you know we were thinking about naming her Camille?” asked Logan. “Silly question, of course you would know.” Mark laughed at Logan’s disgruntled expression. “Just you wait,” said Logan. “Your time is coming.”
“I can’t wait,” said Mark.
Moon Walking smiled at the brothers and looked at Mark.
“You can drop me off at my home. Then, I will let you get back to your future,” said Moon Walking.
Mark obediently held the car door for her and waved his brother goodbye as he drove her to her home. When he dropped her off, Moon Walking turned to him. “Don’t forget to arrange extra security for Doris and her family,” she said.
“Do you think they are in danger here?” he asked.
“Obsession sometimes finds a way. Be careful for all of your loved ones. Make sure they are aware of the danger. Even the little ones need to be aware of the danger. They need to know to ask for help if it is needed.”
“Thank you, Moon Walking. I’ll take care of everyone,” he promised.
Moon Walking patted his shoulder. “I know you will,” she said
Moon Walking went inside, and Mark drove to his parents’ house. Before he went inside, he called the head of security on the reservation and explained the situation to him and asked for extra security for his family. The head of security agreed and Mark went inside feeling much encouraged.
Daisy wanted to go and see Camille, so Mark took her and Doris over to Logan and Willow’s house. Willow was awake when they arrived, so the women were in the bedroom ooohing and aaahing over the baby. Mark and Logan went out and sat on the front porch. Mark explained the situation with Doris and let his brother know Doris was his mate.
“I am happy for you. I hope it all works out for you. She seems like a lovely person, and I think she will fit in well here,” said Logan.
“I think so, too. I just have to get her past the present danger, and then I can court her proper,” said Mark.
“Well, you have Moon Walking on your side. You have a head start on working things out,” laughed Logan.
“Yes, I do,” agreed Mark with satisfaction.
“When will Dad be back from his trip to the capital?” asked Mark.
“He should be back in about a week. He and the elder were meeting with the Indian commission today and tomorrow. I hope they can get some results this time,” said Logan.
“We can only hope,” agreed Mark.
Their dad was a lawyer and represented the Indian nation before the legislative committee. He had made several trips to the capital before without getting satisfaction. The committee would make promises, but not follow through. The Indian nation had a plus on their side this time. They were being backed by the Black Foundation. When the Black Foundation talked, the committee listened. Maybe this time they would get results.
Daisy and Doris came out of the house. Doris wanted to get home before the school bus ran. Daisy and Willow had decided to let Joey stay with his grandma a couple of more days before returning home. Doris was glad Joey was staying. She knew Orin and Sarah would miss him when he returned home.
They arrived home as the bus stopped to unload the children. Orin, Joey, and Sarah left the bus and hurried over to Daisy and Doris. Orin and Sarah looked happier than Doris had seen them in months. They were all talking a mile a minute.
Daisy held up a hand for quiet, and they all stopped talking.
“I have snacks prepared for you. As soon as you have changed clothes and washed your hands, you may come to the kitchen.”
“Yes, Ma’am,” responded the youngsters running for the house.
Doris and Mark followed behind Daisy into the house. Mark laid his arm across Doris’s shoulder as they walked. He waited to see if she objected. When she didn’t, he left it there and guided her inside.
Doris was very aware of Mark’s arm across her shoulder. It felt right being there. She was not going to object. His presence made her feel safe and happy. This was the best she had felt in a long time. She sighed happily.
Mark heard the sigh. He smiled. She would be his. It was meant to be. Moon Walking and the magic mirror said so.
As soon as the children ate their snacks, they went outside to play. They were joined by other boys and girls who lived nearby. Mark’s sister, Dawn, lived about a mile from there and regularly dropped her three, two boys and a girl, off at her mother’s when she went shopping. They loved playing at Grandma’s and it gave their mother a break.
She dropped them off today because she wanted to go by and see the new baby. She waved at Mark as she dropped them off. He was outside keeping an eye on the children. Mark waved back and stayed on the porch, watching the children run around and play hide and seek.
Doris came out and sat on the porch with him. He reached over and put his arm around her and pulled her close. “Is anything wrong?” she asked, seeing his sober expression.
“I don’t want to scare you. I just want to be sure there is no danger. Moon Walking told me to alert security to keep an eye open for any problems,” said Mark.
Doris stiffened. “I don’t want to bring danger to your family. Maybe we should go somewhere else.”
“No,” said Mark. He turned her and looked in her eyes. “You are my family, too. I will keep all of you safe. I have increased security and have alerted family members to keep an eye out. I will not let anything happen to any of you.” He hugged her close and kissed the top of her head. Doris laid her face on his chest and enjoyed the feel of his arms holding her close.
The girls squealed and ran over to the porch, avoiding some boys who were chasing them. Doris looked around at their smiling faces and felt truly blessed to have this man and his family care about her and her family. She looked up at Mark and smiled.
“Thank you,” she said.
Mark smiled back at her. “Thank me for what?” he asked.
“For making me feel safe, for giving me back hope, and for making my sister and brother smile again.”
“You’re welcome,” he said and kissed her lightly.
Doris licked her lips and savored his taste on her lips. Mark’s eyes darkened as he watched her. Before he could kiss her again, his sister drove up and stopped. She was back from seeing the baby and was there to pick up her bunch.
She got out of her car and approached the porch to say hello before she picked the children up.
Daisy, hearing the car, came out to say hello.
“Dawn, this is Doris. Doris, meet my sister Dawn, the mother of the latest three to join our group,” said Mark.
“I’m pleased to meet you, Dawn,” said Doris.
“I’m happy to meet you, too,” said Dawn.
“Are Willow and Camille doing alright?” asked Daisy.
“Yes, they are fine. Sleeping a lot, but they should be up and making a racket in a day or two,” said Dawn.
“Good,” said Daisy with satisfaction.
The phone could be heard ringing inside, and Daisy excused herself to go answer it. “It’s probably your father,” she said as she left.
Dawn looked at Doris sitting with Mark’s arm around her and smiled.
Doris was so comfortable in his arms, she had not even thought about moving. It was okay with Mark. He wanted her to be comfortable in his arms. He wanted to keep her there forever.
“Well,” said Dawn. “I need to round up my bunch and get home so I can have dinner ready when Hank gets home.”
“It was nice to meet you, Doris,” she said.
“It was nice to meet you, too,” said Doris.
Dawn called her children and they came running. They were waving and calling goodbye to all the other children. The other children were waving back and calling goodbye, Orin and Sarah included.
Daisy came back outside to call everyone in to eat. “Your father will be home day after tomorrow,” she told Mark. Her face was glowing.
Doris looked at Mark and wondered if, after years of marriage, they would still have the kind of love his parents had. The kind of love to make the face glow at the thought of seeing the other person. Mark smiled at her. It was as if he was thinking the same thing. Maybe they could have that type of marriage, if they married, she thought.
CHAPTER3
The next day followed the pattern of the first day. The children were all up and ready for school when the bus came for them. Daisy, Mark, and Doris enjoyed a leisurely breakfast after the bus left.
While the women were clearing away after breakfast, Mark went outside to call the station and see if there were any updates about Derrick. The officer in charge said they had not located Derrick. The police had issued a city-wide alert for him and were getting a lot of calls. The calls had not produced any results as of yet.
“We’ll get him. He can’t hide forever. He’ll get cocky and show himself, and then we will grab him,” reassured the officer. Mark hung up the phone very dissatisfied with the lack of results.
One of his mother’s friends came by to visit with her, so after saying hello, Mark decided to take Doris on a ride around the reservation to show her around. He drove her by the school and the sports complex, built by the Black Foundation. He pointed out a line of stores. The grocer was the busiest. It seemed to be shopping day for many of the ladies. They all waved at Mark and looked curiously at Doris.
They passed several security patrols. They also waved at Mark. Mark took her by a plot of land close to his brother, Logan. Another brother, Marcel, lived on the other side of Logan. Mark pointed out the undeveloped land to her; it was two acres. “When I decide to build, this is where I will build a home,” said Mark.
Doris looked around at the vacant land. “It’s a lovely spot,” she said. “It’s nice and close to Logan and Willow.” She turned and smiled at Mark.
“Yes, it will be nice for our children to be close to each other,” agreed Mark.
“How many children are we talking about?” asked Doris.
“I will leave it up to the Holy Spirit to decide,” said Mark seriously.
“Uh-huh,” said Doris. “I think the Holy Spirit can use a little guidance.”
Mark laughed. “I was only teasing. I think three is a nice group, but I will be satisfied with however many I am blessed with.”
“I guess you will,” agreed Doris. “Especially if you are planning on me having anything to do with it.”
“Oh, you are most definitely involved in my plans,” agreed Mark with a smile. “After all, the magic mirror agrees we are each other’s true loves. There will never be another for me.”
Doris leaned over and offered him a kiss. He wasted no time taking her up on her offer. When he finally drew back, they were both breathing hard. Mark rested his forehead on Doris’s forehead while catching his breath.
Mark sighed, “I guess we need to head back to Mom’s and see if she needs anything.”
“Yes,” agreed Doris.
When they stopped in front of the house and got out of the car, Mark’s phone rang. Doris went on inside, and Mark stayed outside to answer his phone. “Hello,” said Mark.
“Hello, this is James Michaels.”
“Hello, Captain, what can I do for you? Do you have any news?” asked Mark.
“Yes, we picked up Derrick Bolin,” said James.
“Great,” said Mark.
“Yes, but Miss Tims is still in danger. Derrick’s gang has been harassing the people at the coffee shop where she worked trying to find her. She and her family need to stay hidden until we can stop them,” James said.
“I will make sure she stays safe,” agreed Mark. “How much time can I take off?”
“You have plenty of vacation time built up. I let it out you are dealing with a family emergency and would be out for awhile. I will let you know when you have to appear at Derrick’s trial. I stood in for you at his arraignment.”
“Thanks, James. I owe you,” said Mark.
“Yes, you do. I’ll blame you when Cindy thinks I need more time off,” James laughed.
“How is Cindy?” Mark asked.
“She’s doing fine. She is just anxious to deliver and hold our daughter,” said James.
“You’re having a daughter,” said Mark. “Congratulations. Give Cindy my love and you take care of her.”
“I will to both suggestions,” agreed James. “Keep in touch and be alert.”
They both hung up, and Mark went inside to let Doris know what was going on. “I just talked to Captain Michaels. He said they picked up Derrick Bolin,” said Mark.
“Great,” said Doris.
“The Captain said he would let me know when I have to testify against him,” said Mark.
“How long before we can go home?” Doris asked.
“I don’t know. The Captain said Derrick’s gang has been harassing the people at the coffee shop trying to find you,” explained Mark.
“Are you going to have to go back to work?” Daisy asked Mark.
“No, the captain told me to stay and take care of Doris and her family. He led the people at the station to believe I was dealing with a family emergency,” said Mark.
“Good,” said Daisy.
“Yes, very good,” agreed Doris.
Mark smiled at her. “I am not going to let anything happen to you or your sister and brother.”
Doris went over and hugged him. “Thank you,” she whispered.
Daisy watched them with satisfaction.
They heard the bus coming outside. They went outside to talk to Orin, Sarah, and Joey.
“Hi, everyone,” said Mark as the children came onto the front porch. “Could we talk for a minute before you get changed?” Mark asked. All three stopped and looked at Mark with smiling faces. “You know why we brought Orin and Sarah here for a while?” he asked.
“So we would be safe from the bad men,” said Sarah.
Mark smiled and hugged Sarah. “Yes, Sarah, so we could keep you, your sister and brother safe from the bad men. We have one of the bad men in jail now, but his partners, other bad men, are still looking for you. We need you to let us know if you see any strangers around. Stay in groups and don’t go off by yourself. If you have any problems, yell and ask for help. The teachers at the school will look after you. If anyone else tries to take you, call for help. We will take care of you. You are safe with us. Can you do this for me?” All three children nodded their heads.
“Okay, go get changed and get your snack so you can play,” said Mark. All three children hurried inside. “I don’t think they really understand,” said Mark with a sigh.
Doris came over and gave him a hug. “Maybe some of it got through. They had to be warned.”
Daisy patted his shoulder. “We will keep a close eye on them,” she promised.
The next morning, Mark received a call about Derrick’s trial. It was set for two weeks. He told Doris about the date, and they were both nervous about the outcome of the coming trial.
Daisy was excited and rushed around cleaning and cooking while she waited for her husband to return home.
Doris and Mark smiled to see her so excited. When they heard a car stop out front, they all went out to see who it was. It turned out to be Jamie and Silas Long Feather. They greeted everyone and then asked to speak to Mark. Doris and Daisy went back inside, leaving Mark to talk to his cousins.
“The head of security has asked us to man the gate and make people we don’t know show ID before they come on the reservation. We have had some motorcyclists trying to enter. They were turned back, but our guards are spread thin, and the head of security is afraid they will try to find another way in,” said Silas.
“Why are they coming here before the trial?” wondered Mark.
“It may be you they are after. You signed the complaint against their friend,” said Jamie.
“You may be right,” said Mark. “They may not know Doris and her family are on the reservation.”
“Just in case you are wrong, the chief of security has sent two men to keep an eye on your home until this matter is settled,” said Jamie.
“Thanks for letting me know. My dad is expected home today. If we have any problems, both he and I are excellent shots. If they come snooping around here, they may cease to be a problem.”
“We will see you later,” said Jamie. “Be safe.” The brothers left, and Mark went inside.
The next car they heard was Mark’s dad, Glen Black Feather. They all stayed inside so Daisy could greet him alone. When they entered after a time, both were slightly flushed. Mark rose and shook his dad’s hand.
“Dad, this is Doris Tims. Doris, my dad Glen Black Feather,” said Mark.
“I’m pleased to meet you, Mr. Black Feather,” said Doris, holding out her hand to shake.
“Call me Glen, please,” said Glen. “Welcome to our home. We are glad you are safe with us, and you are welcome to stay as long as you need to.” He took Doris’s hand and, instead of shaking it, he gave it a squeeze.
“Thank you,” said Doris, flushing slightly and glancing at Mark. Mark smiled at her encouragingly and put his arm around her shoulders. Glen smiled at this obvious sign of affection.
While Daisy and Doris put supper on the table, Mark took his dad out to the porch and filled him in on everything happening. When he finished explaining, Glen patted him on his shoulder.
“Do not worry,” he said. “We will keep your lady and her family safe,” he said.
“Thanks, Dad,” said Mark.
Daisy called, and they went inside to eat. They all joined hands and Glen said a prayer of thanks before eating.
“So, Dad, how did things go in the capital?” asked Mark.
Glen sighed. “I think we may have accomplished some of our goals. Time will tell,” he said.
“Joey, I hear you have a new sister. After supper, you will have to take me to see her,” said Glen.
“Sure, Paw Paw, I want to see her, too,” said Joey.
“You haven’t seen her yet?” Glen asked.
“No, Sir., said Joey shaking his head.
Glen shook his head. “It’s high time you did.”
Joey smiled big and went back to eating. Joey thought for a minute and then looked at Orin and Sarah. “It’s not far to my house,” he said. “We will still be able to play together.”
“Of course you will,” agreed Mark. “You will still see each other in school, too.”
Orin and Sarah looked like they didn’t know whether to believe in the assurances. They had been through so much. They were programmed to expect the worst.
After the meal was finished, Glen looked at the sad faces of Orin and Sarah and sighed. “Would you two like two like to go with us to see the new baby?” Both children brightened and nodded their heads.
Doris took Daisy’s hand and told her to go with Glen. “Mark and I will clear the table and clean up,” she urged.
Daisy smiled and took off her apron. “Thanks,” said Daisy, following Glen and the children out to the car. The children were in awe of the baby. They did not remember being this close to a newborn before.
“She’s beautiful,” said Glen to Willow and Logan.
Logan picked Joey up and held him so he could get a better look.
“You are going to help us look after your sister,” said Logan. “Moon Walking said we were going to have our hands full with her.”
“Oh, my,” said Daisy. Glen started laughing.
“You have a big family to help,” said Glen.
“I know,” agreed Logan.
“Moon Walking always manages to get the last say,” said Glen.
“Well, she may have the last word, but I have found it pays to listen to her,” said Daisy.
Glen put his arm around Daisy’s shoulder. “I know, Love, so have I,” said Glen.
“We have to go. These children have to get to bed. They have school tomorrow. Joey, thank you for visiting with me,” said Daisy.
Joey came over and gave her a hug. “I love visiting with you, Maw Maw,” he said.
Everyone said goodnight, and Glen and Daisy headed home with Orin and Sarah.
When they arrived home, Doris and Mark took the children up to bed and left Daisy and Glen outside to enjoy some quiet time together.
“Doris?” asked Sarah.
“What, dear?” Doris asked.
“Are we going to live here now?” asked Sarah.
“I don’t know. Do you like living on the reservation?’ Doris asked.
“Yes, I do. The boys and girls here are much nicer than the ones at my old school. They used to pick on me and Orin and make fun of us,” said Sarah.
“Why didn’t you tell me?” asked Doris, visibly upset.
“You had so much to do with work and taking care of us, I didn’t want to cause any trouble. Besides, some of the boys and girls said we should be taken away and put in a home. We were afraid to say anything. We thought someone would come and take us away,” said Sarah.
“Oh baby,” said Doris, hugging Sarah tight, “nobody is going to take you away. I won’t let them. Get some sleep. I’ll be up in a little while.”
She tucked Sarah in and kissed her good night.
When she went out of the room, Mark was waiting. She turned into his arm, shedding the tears she had held back in front of Sarah. Mark held her close and made soothing sounds.
When she could control her tears, she looked up at Mark. “Those children got their information from their parents. It makes me furious they were trying to get Orin and Sarah taken away from me. Those meddling busybodies.”
“It’s not going to happen. I won’t let it happen. I will take care of it. I love you, and I love those kids. We are going to raise them together.”
CHAPTER4
Doris and Mark joined his parents in the living room. Daisy noticed Doris had been crying and asked what was wrong. Mark explained about the kids being bullied and how some busybodies were trying to have Orin and Sara taken away from Doris and put in foster care.
“They can’t take those children. Can they?” she asked Glen.
“They might,” said Glen. “If they can slip in and take them, you would have a very hard time getting then back.”
“What can I do?” asked Doris.
“You need to file for custody of them before anything happens. We can make out the papers and have them ready when everything is settled with the trial.” He took out a pad and pencil. “Let me get some information, and I will draw up the papers.”
Glen looked at Mark. “The CPS might try to keep them from being raised on the reservation,” he said. Mark nodded his head.
“Now, last name Tims,” said Glen.
“No, their dad was my stepfather. Their last name is Larks,” said Doris.
“Larks,” repeated Glen. “Alfred Larks?”
“Yes. Did you know him?” asked Doris.
“Yes, he was my cousin on my mother’s side. He was half-white. His dad was white.” Glen smiled with satisfaction. “This will make things easier. They can’t complain about the children being on the reservation if they are part Indian,” he explained. Mark and Doris both looked at each other and smiled.
Daisy chuckled. “You are more part of the family than you knew,” she said.
“Not as much as she is going to be,” replied Mark. Doris looked at Mark and grinned. “I think I may be able to slow the CPS down a bit so we have more time to prepare,” said Mark.
He took out his phone and called James. “Hello, Mark,” said James. “This is becoming a habit,” he laughed.
“I have a problem I thought you might be able to help me with,” said Mark.
“You haven’t seen any of Derrick’s friends, have you?” asked James,
“No, nothing like that, the CPS may be trying to take Orin and Sarah and put them in foster care. Some old biddies in town were pushing for it. I was wondering if you could talk to the Judge and see if he can help,” said Mark.
“Sure, I’ll talk to him and see if he can help. What are their names?”
“Doris’s name is Doris Tims. The children are her half-brother and sister. Their names are Orin and Sarah Larks. Their father was half-Indian and my dad’s cousin. I really appreciate anything you can do,” said Mark.
“I’ll talk to the Judge tomorrow and get back to you. Stay safe,” said James as he hung up.
Mark looked at Doris and smiled. “He’s going to talk to the Judge tomorrow and call me back.”
“Do you think the Judge will help?” asked Doris.
“You could not have a better person on your side,” said Glen.
“I have had some dealings with Judge Hawthorn. He is a really stand-up guy,” agreed Mark. Mark pulled Doris into his arms and gave her a hug. “Everything is going to be alright,” he said.
Doris rested her face on his chest and sighed. She was glad this family was on her side. They were a force to be reckoned with, and they were her family. She smiled.
Mark took Doris’s hand and led her out to the porch. He wanted some semi-alone time with her. Once outside, he settled into a rocking chair and pulled her into his lap. Doris lay back in his arms and snuggled close to him. She took a deep breath. She loved the way he smelled. It was a crisp, manly smell. Mark laughed and then kissed her.
When the kiss ended, Doris became serious. “I’m not going to be able to go back to my job at the coffee shop, am I?”
“No,” replied Mark. “It’s not safe.”
Doris sighed. “I have some life insurance money from Mom and Alfred. I was hoping to be able to save it for Orin and Sarah. I used the last of my dad’s life insurance to take some college classes. I had to drop out when Mom and Alfred were killed. The job at the coffee shop was all I could find. It will be harder to convince the CPS to let me keep Orin and Sarah if I am not working.”
“It will not matter. You are on the reservation now. We have different rules. Since the children are part Indian, we have a better chance of keeping them. Besides, you are going to marry me. I will have our new house built large enough to handle two extra.”
“Who says we are going to marry,” teased Doris. “I haven’t heard a proposal.”
“I didn’t think you were ready for a proposal, yet. Everything has happened so fast, I wanted to give you time to get to know me. I wanted to make sure you did not think I was another stalker.”
Doris put her hand on his face and caressed it slightly. “I could never believe you were a stalker. You are the kindest man I know. I don’t know anyone else who would have dropped everything and worked so hard to keep us safe. I love you,” whispered Doris. She leaned forward and kissed him.
Mark took over the kiss and deepened it. After a few minutes, he drew back slightly. “Doris Tims, will you do me the honor of being my wife and making us a family?” he asked.
“Oh yes,” agreed Doris, joining him in a long and satisfying kiss.
When they came up for air, Doris took his face in her hands and looked into his eyes. “Have I told you what a wonderful man you are? You didn’t even know me and you jumped right in and helped me, and then you gathered up my brother and sister and kept us all safe. You didn’t stop to ask questions. You just forged ahead and made sure we were safe, even bringing us to your own home. There are not many men who would go out of their way to do anything like this,” said Doris.
“From the moment I saw you in the mirror, I knew you were mine to protect, love, and cherish. Your soul spoke to my soul. Whether we knew each other did not matter. Our souls recognized each other. I knew I had to keep you, Sarah and Orin safe. I knew my life would be empty without you,” Mark finished with another kiss.
When they relaxed and sat back quietly in each other's arms, Mark looked down at the woman in his arms. He thanked the Great Spirit for sending her to him. He promised he would protect her with his life.
“What were you studying in college?” he asked.
“I was taking cosmetology classes,” answered Doris.
“After everything is straightened out, you can go back and get your degree. The reservation could use a good hair salon. It would keep our ladies from having to go into Rolling Fork to get their hair done,” said Mark.
“Do you think so?” asked Doris. “It would be great and I could use some of the insurance money to pay for it.”
“No, the insurance money needs to be put into accounts for Sarah and Orin’s future. I will cover the cost of your classes,” said Mark.
“Can you afford to cover my classes? You have a house to build. I don’t want to be a burden,” said Doris.
“You could never be a burden. I have plenty of money and I make a good salary.” Mark smiled. “Building a house on the reservation is a little different than building a house in town. I will have to buy the building materials and have them ready at the site. The men on the reservation will get together and build the house. The ladies will come and bring food and drinks. It will be like a large picnic. Even the older boys will help by bringing materials to the workers. The older girls will help by taking care of the younger children.”
“Wow,” said Doris. “That is amazing. I’m going to love living here.”
Mark laughed. “I am going to love having you live here with me.”
They didn’t talk again for a while.
“We need to go in and get some sleep,” said Doris. “Orin and Sarah will be up early to get ready for school.”
Mark sighed. “I know. I just hate to let you go. My arms will feel so empty without you in them.”
Doris smiled. “I know. I hate to break the moment. It’s not every day a girl gets engaged.”
Mark’s arms tightened around her. “It will be even better when we are married, then I will not have to let you go.”
“I like the sound of that,” agreed Doris.
After a few more minutes of serious kissing, they rose and went inside. The living room was empty. His parents had retired, so they reluctantly said good night and went to their separate rooms.
Orin and Sarah were a little sad the next morning because Joey wasn’t there. Daisy reminded them they would see Joey at school, and they perked up. When the bus blew its horn, they grabbed their lunches and hurried out to catch it.
Doris stood watching them hurry to the bus and waved goodbye to them. Since she now knew they were part Indian, she could see it in their appearances. They both had dark hair and eyes and their skin was darker. It was like they had a permanent tan. They were not as dark as the children on the reservation, but they were darker than the children in Rolling Fork.
Mark joined her on the porch with a cup of coffee. She raised her face to receive his kiss. “Mom’s got breakfast ready,” he said. Doris turned and went inside with him to eat.
They found Daisy and Glen already at the table eating. Glen was glancing at the newspaper while enjoying his coffee. He put the paper down when Doris and Mark sat down.
“Good morning,” said Glen. “I am going to start the papers to have permanent custody of Orin and Sarah approved for you and Mark today. It will take a few days to get it finalized,” said Glen.
“Thank you,” said Doris.
Doris looked at Mark. “Did you tell them we are engaged?” she asked.
“You are, that’s wonderful,” said Daisy coming over and giving Doris a hug. “Welcome to our family. I am so happy.” She wiped her eyes.
“If you are so happy, why are you crying, Mom?” asked Mark as she came to hug him.
“They are happy tears,” she declared.
Glen rose from the table and shook Mark’s hand and gave Doris a hug. “Welcome, we are very pleased,” he said.
There was a knock at the door. Glen went to answer it. When he came back, he had Moon Walking with him. “I came by to wish Mark and Doris congratulations on their engagement,” she said.
“Thank you, Moon Walking,” said Mark and Doris.
“Would you like some breakfast?” asked Daisy. “I have some pancakes and fresh maple syrup.”
“Yes, I believe I will,” agreed Moon Walking.
Mark pulled a chair back for her and seated her at the table. Daisy brought her a stack of pancakes and sat the pitcher of syrup close by. Doris brought her a cup of coffee.
They all sat at the table to continue their interrupted breakfast.
“These are good,” said Moon Walking after eating a few bites. “They are almost as good as the ones Little Flower makes.”
Daisy smiled at the compliment. She knew how much Little Flower meant to Moon Walking. Little Flower, also known as Angelica Steele, was married to Moon Walking’s grandson, Dr. Alex Steele.
“Thank you,” replied Daisy. “How is your great-granddaughter doing?”
Moon Walking smiled. “She is growing fast. Little Flower and Running Wolf are going to provide her with a little brother soon.”
“Wonderful,” said Daisy. “I am happy for you and your family.”
“Thank you. Also, thank you for the pancakes.” She turned to Glen. “If you are headed to your office, I will ride in with you.”
“I was just getting ready to leave. I will be happy to drop you off,” said Glen.
While Moon Walking headed for the porch, Glen grabbed his briefcase and kissed Daisy goodbye. “I’ll call you in a while,” he promised,
Daisy looked at Doris and laughed. “Moon Walking is a large help around the reservation. The information she passes on is a great help. She genuinely cares about the people and she always has our best interest at heart. If we have to put up with a few eccentrics, it’s well worth it to us.”
