A Disenchanted Life

---

http://jsmagic.net/adisenchantedlife.pdf (READ PDF FILE TO SEE PICTURES IN STORY)

"A Disenchanted Life"

By J.B. Pearce

Chapter 1.

In the late 1800’s after the Civil War, Amy Janine Randall was a girl much like any other girl at age 14 who lived on the vast wasteland known as the Texas frontier – except for one thing. Amy had no wish to grow up to become merely a wife and mother. She had an unquenchable thirst for knowledge that seemingly could not be satisfied. She was; however, more fortunate than most girls her age in that her mother was a Northerner who had come from a prominent banking family that understood the significance of a good education regardless of your sex.

Ranch life was difficult at best even when times were good. And Amy was expected to pull her weight regardless of her sex or her proclivity for learning. She’d been told repeatedly, as a child, that her brothers would not be expected to “pull up her slack” so she could dawdle away her time relaxing under a shade tree somewhere with some new book. Learning was secondary to all other things that put food in their bellies and clothes on their backs. Days began early and chores must all be done before she was allowed to mount the old plow horse and make her way to the town school just a few miles away for those few hours a day. And even though she was allowed to go to the school, at her mother’s insistence, it was evident to Amy that it had placed a wedge between her parents since her father did not hold education in the same high regard as her mother.

Amy’s father, John Randall, had once had promise. He had cut a dashing figure in his military uniform and could have swept many a vulnerable maiden off her feet. But it was Amy’s mother, Janine, that he had wanted and none other would do. She was a remarkable young female – an educated, opinionated, striking specimen of womanhood in full bloom with a fiery mane of auburn hair cascading down her back that could blind a man in the afternoon sun. There was only one thing that she wasn’t – and that was any viable competition for John Randall. Having been a veteran of the Indian campaign, he was well aware of how to negotiate a complete surrender.

Their courtship was short lived but the battle for Janine’s hand had been a monumental one in wrestling her away from that of the doting father who had envisioned his darling wedded to someone of more wealth and prominence. However, once Janine had been wedded and bedded, the idyllic couple were on their way to a new life in the upstart Texas with his life savings and her ample dowry.

Having been born to ranch life, John Randall envisioned owning his own profitable ranch in the undulating Texas hill country. He knew the country was just beginning to flourish and his skill as a rancher and as a politician could be vital in bringing the country to full culmination. As for Janine, she had merely an inkling of what would be expected of her in that uncharted wildness, but whatever lay ahead, she felt…up to the task.

They had both come from strong stock. But even a stone can be worn away when Time brushes past it over and over. They hadn’t bargained for the hardships, the hours of endless toil, and the repeated disappointments that dashed their eager hopes again and again. The romance of the relationship had ebbed, but the mutual respect for their resolve had sustained them through the years and had given them the courage to continue the struggle even when the odds lay squarely against them.

The birth of twin boys had given John Randall some encouragement to his plight. That he might ultimately have grown sons, Marcus and Matthew, to help in easing his burdens had given him some renewed hope for their future. When Amy had been born some three years later, John had looked upon her birth more as a comfort to her mother than as a boon for their ranch. Amy proved him wrong at every turn.

As she matured, so did her resolve. And with that determination, she learned to ride better, shoot straighter, and problem solve much more adequately than both of her brothers combined. Unlike her brothers; however, her first love was not their burgeoning ranch. As she grew, so did her quest for knowledge. Her aptitude at ranching was merely to prove to her father that she could do anything that she set her mind to, a feat in which her mother took great delight.

Chapter 2.

Amy had been a mere 14 years old when she and her mother had begun to hammer away at John Randall for the girl to go away for more schooling. Regardless of the enormous amount of books the girl had consumed, it was never enough to quench her thirst for more and more knowledge. John Randall had been no match for the pair of females who had assailed him at every turn with logical reasoning for why the girl needed to further her education. Once again, John Randall had offered futile resistance to the pair and Amy had been permitted to be shipped off to her Northern grandfather in Boston to further her education for four years.

Fitting into a girl’s school was no easy feat for Amy Randall. And though her conduct had been “smoothed over” to some degree, she remained a rancher and a tomboy at heart whose rough edges lay always just beneath the surface. She was sheer gladness to her Northern grandfather’s heart. She was the daughter who had been stolen from him those many years ago, and being the tomboy she was, she was also the son, so to speak, that he’d never had. Every weekend found them spending time together – riding, hunting, fishing, reading and discussing in depth some new writer or concept. She made the old man young again, and in turn, he appreciatively worshipped at her altar.

The grandmother, having died some years earlier, left Amy as the old man’s sole focus in life. He shared all that he knew of the world with the girl - art, politics, history, philosophy, languages, social life and the same ravenous thirst for knowledge. Their philosophical discussions amazed the old man. Almost daily, he was astonished at the girl’s grasp of a world she so eagerly plunged into.

He had lavished the young beauty with what accoutrements that she would allow and proudly escorted her to as many social functions as she would begrudgingly go. She was indifferent to the scores of beaus who sought her favor but would occasionally allow one or two who caught her attention to go riding with her or spend the afternoon discussing a new book she was reading. Riding side saddle, as the women of the day were accustomed to doing, was out of the question for Amy Randall and donning a pair of britches and boots was much more amenable for her afternoon jaunts galloping across the countryside.

She was amused by people, their ideas, their traditional values. She derived great delight in toying with people - listening intently to the occasional antiquated ideas of others, and then shocking them with her own progressive ideas, especially about women, which often stunned an unappreciative audience. She had a tendency to run into the world unbridled and an adoring grandfather had no wish to rein her in.

It hadn’t taken long for the old man to recognize that he needed to take her to Europe – to expand her education, to show her the treasures of history she only been privy to read about –to share in the joy he knew she would derive from seeing the ancient ruins of Rome, the artistic culture of France, and the sophistication of Great Britain. So, after some heated correspondence with the girl’s father, the two of them had set sail.

They journeyed for six months – Italy, Ireland, France, Great Britain, but it was the last stop of their journey that had impressed the girl the most – Spain. It was there they had visited the ranch of a business acquaintance of the grandfather that the girl first saw an Andalusian.

When she first ran her fingers through the lush thick mane of an Andalusian stallion and along the sleek, muscular contours of his torso, the rest of the world fell by the wayside. They had spent a week at the ranch of Senor Gustavo and every morning at the crack of dawn, Amy could be found in the stables brushing the stallion and readying him for their morning ride. Midday she would return to clean up and dress for a sociable luncheon and then unapologetically sneak off again in the afternoons for another run with the stallion.

She cried when it came time to leave - burying her face in the generous mane of the stallion that she had grown to adore. Secret negotiations were made, goodbyes were said, and heartfelt thank you was uttered as they left that day. She felt enriched, but empty, as if some great treasure had been loaned to her and then snatched away. She made every effort to be the gracious guest, but she struggled miserably within. After all she had seen, after all the places she’d been, after all the thrills she had experienced these last few months, she felt like the life she had known was going to be nothing more than a long series of harsh disappointments.

They had been back at the grandfather’s estate for a month and were enjoying breakfast on the veranda when the girl spied a wagon turn into the long driveway. She was only mildly interested until she saw the horse trailer being pulled along the road. Turning to her grandfather across the table to question him, she noticed the roguish gleam in his eye and the broad grin on his face.

“I didn’t think you could live without him,” he smiled.

She glanced back at the road, rising from her chair, and then looking questioningly back at her grandfather. “It’s not!” she said.

The old man rose from his chair and placed an arm lovingly around her shoulder. “It is!” he said. “I just didn’t see any other way to put that light back into your eyes again.”

She sprang from the terrace and began racing toward the stables.

“I’ll never want for another single thing in my life,” she later muttered over her shoulder to her grandfather, as she dotingly brushed and groomed the stallion. “…Not another blessed thing. Not another thing.”

“I doubt that,” the old man whispered under his breath.

“Can I take him back to Texas when it’s time to go? Is he mine to keep forever? Can I give him his very own special name?”

“Yes, yes and yes,” the old man smiled and nodded. “He’s yours 100 percent for all time to do with as you wish.”

“Magnus! – That’s what I’ll call him. I read that name in a book. It’s a name for a king. It means supreme being. Oh, Magnus…” she whispered, throwing her arms around his broad neck, “…we are going to have such a wonderful life together.”

Chapter 3.

The time Amy had spent with her grandfather had changed her. She was no longer a wide-eyed child contemplating the wonders of the world. Her grandfather had seen to that. He had given her the education she had dreamed of, lay bare the historical treasures of Europe, and given her that most prized possession “Magnus.” She was ready to face the world, but still she had no inkling of what she wanted to do with her life. What was next? What could she do or not do that she hadn’t yet done? That summer before returning to Texas she wrote to her mother and asked her to come for a visit at her father’s estate.

Amy was 20 years old now, and she knew it was time to make some hard choices. She had no desire to marry and devote her life to caring for a husband and children. Her life had been enriched by what she had seen and learned and her one wish was to share in that knowledge so that others might benefit from it.

Janine Randall looked forward to the long trek across country and the brief respite from the drudgery of ranch life. The train ride was long but restful and provided her with ample time to contemplate the kind of life she wanted for her daughter – the kind of life that she could have had if she’d not become so enamored of John Randall and chosen to follow him to Texas to endure a life of hardship and indifference.

She knew the girl was her last chance - the chance to see her daughter fulfill those same dreams she might have realized and stand on her own and not be trapped in a life of toil. What could she do now? What would the girl choose? She had no plans to marry. She had no special talents. Would she choose to come back to Texas? Would she choose to live in the North? What would she choose? Janine knew the choices the girl made now would shape the rest of her life.

Janine’s father had written to her and explained that his health was waning and that he planned on leaving his vast estate entirely to Amy to do with as she chose.

“I intend to see that girl do everything in her life that you couldn’t do,” he’d said. “That Texan took you from us and robbed your mother and me of all those years we could have been close. I’ll not see Amy robbed of all the privilege you could have had if you had chosen differently. She will be given a choice. She’s an educated young woman full of promise and an independent spirit and by God I’ll see to it she has choices if it’s the last damned thing I ever do!”

Their visit had been fruitful and satisfying for all concerned. Afternoons had been spent laughing together and riding across the lush countryside. Evenings had been spent in becoming reacquainted with old friends and family and in late night talks that ran into the early morning hours discussing the girl’s thoughts for the future.

“I only know one thing for certain,” Amy had informed them. “Grandfather has told me he is leaving me his estate so that I can do anything I choose to do. There are only two things that I know I really want to do.” The girl paused and stared shyly down at the floor before going on. “I know it won’t sound like much but what I’d like to do most in this world is to inspire people.”

“Inspire people?” her grandfather asked. “Inspire people how? How do you want to go about doing that?”

“I guess by teaching,” she said. “By encouraging less fortunate children to pursue their dreams and not to settle for less than they think they deserve. By sharing all the wonderful things I’ve seen and telling them about all the beautiful places I’ve been, and encouraging them to not give up on their dreams just because they’re a female or because they don’t have the same good fortune I’ve had.” She looked devotedly into the faces of the grandfather who had doted lovingly on her and the mother who had prayed for her personal fulfillment before adding: “But most of all, I want to make you proud of me as a woman and as an individual who ultimately leaves this world somewhat better than I found it.”

The grandfather leaned back in his armchair laughing. “Is that all?” he asked.

The mother rose from her chair and took a seat beside her daughter on the settee putting her arm around her shoulder and pulling her close. “That’s enough, my darling girl. That would be quite enough. And that’s more than most of us could ever hope for.”

They all sat quietly smiling through dinner with very little conversation, as if all of the great problems of the world had been solved in that one brief discussion. Everyone rested easier as if knowing there were no further challenges they could not face and overcome together. The grandfather had broken open a vintage bottle of Brandy he had been saving and Amy had her first sip to celebrate their joint edification.

The who, what, and where the girl wanted to teach was yet to be settled. She said she needed to discuss it further with her father. She didn’t want him to feel left out of the conversation and she wanted to hear his thoughts on the matter. She would go home – to Texas to spend time with him and to talk with him about her future. She needed for him to see how she had changed in those few years. She wanted to get to know him again, as an adult, and not just as his little girl any more. After that, she would know where she wanted to teach and who she wanted to teach - and not before.

Chapter 4.

In anticipation of the trip home, she had spent hours choosing gifts for her father and brothers. A beautiful new Meerschaum Pipe from Germany lay neatly wrapped in a wooden box for her father and matching pearl handled pocket knives were nestled in brightly colored tissue paper inside striped boxes for her brothers.

For the grandfather she had purchased a pictorial anthology on the breeding of the Andalusians in Spain and lovingly signed it “Your Most Ardent Fan and Grateful Admirer, Amy.” And for her mother, she had bought tickets to the ballet and taken her shopping for an elegant gown to wear for the evening.

And dreading the temporary separation from Magnus while she returned to Texas, she had purchased an elegant new saddle made for him in black Corinthian leather with silver buckles and trim.

“It won’t be long,” she whispered in his ear on their last ride before she left for the trip home. “As soon as I get back to Texas and talk to Dad and figure out where I’m going to go and what I’m going to do, I’ll send for you right away. I’ve told Jake to take you for a good run every day and make sure you get plenty of juicy apples and carrots while I’m gone. Why, see there, I’ve even put a picture of me right up there on the wall so you can see me every day.”

She cried when she left the horse looking confused and alone there in the stable. She cried when she kissed and embraced the grandfather whom she had grown to adore. She cried when she hugged all the servants goodbye at the door. She cried all the way to the train station and almost half of the way to Texas.

She had taken photographs all the way back to Texas with the new Eastman Kodak camera her grandfather had given her. “Now, you take plenty of pictures of your trip back home so you can show me all the places you’ve been when I see you again,” he had instructed the girl. She had spent hours learning how to use the camera and develop the film so she could share them with the old man when she saw him again. The first photo she’d snapped had been of the old man standing admiringly beside Magnus and he, in turn, had taken a photograph of her proudly sitting astride the stallion.

When her father and brothers met them at the train station, Amy had insisted that a passing stranger take two photos of them all together so that she could keep one of the pictures and send the other to her grandfather. They stood together, arms wrapped around each other, beaming at the camera, as if their reunion was an everyday occurrence.

So much had transpired since the last time they had all been together. One of her brothers, Marcus, was to be married in June and they were building a new house for him and his future bride not far from the main ranch house. And Matthew had decided to become a Missionary and preach the Word of God after entering a seminary.

As for her father, John, he looked older, his skin more leathery from the years toiling under the Texas sun and his gait was noticeably slower than the last time she’d seen him. But he looked happy and especially overjoyed to see her mother and her.

“I have my two girls back,” he said “at long last. ‘Bout time you two came dragging your carcasses back to Texas. It’s not the same round here when all the womenfolk are out gallivanting around. I hope you two are ready to stay home for a while now!” He babbled cheerfully most of their way home. “Why Marisol even prepared a big ole turkey and dressing dinner for your homecoming with all the fixings. You’d think it was Christmas or something the way she’s been barking orders, and cleaning and cooking for days now. Yep, it’ll be good to have all my little chickens back in the nest for a while,” he grinned broadly, as if it had been years since he had sufficient reason to smile.

All of the ranch hands and neighbors for miles had gathered for a festive evening of good food, music and cheerful banter about old times. The old place looked glorious with lights strung around the place and a fresh coat of paint. They had even planted a few trees and flowers around the place knowing how much her mother loved the greenery. It was a welcome home none of them would soon forget.

In all her years away, Amy had forgotten how beautiful South Texas was – the richness of the land, the lush green hills, and the mighty Guadalupe River winding its way lethargically through the rock encrusted land that surrounded the ranch. The air smelled different here…cleaner…sweeter…safer…she mused to herself. She’d missed it. And now that she was home again, she wasn’t so certain she would ever want to leave.

“There is time,” she had told herself. “Time to decide. Plenty of time…to figure out what I want to do with the rest of my life.” But for then – at that particular moment in her life….surrounded by the smiling faces of the people she had loved all of her life, Amy Janine Randall was content.

Chapter 5.

When she awoke the next morning, her first thought was of heading to the stable to see Magnus. She had forgotten where she was and that the steed was hundreds of miles away…probably also wondering where the girl was and why he hadn’t seen her for days now. The thought of being separated from the horse made the girl anxious to talk to her father and reach some kind of decision regarding what she wanted to do with the rest of her life.

The aroma of frying bacon and percolating coffee filled her nostrils and brought back old memories of all the ranch breakfasts she had enjoyed as a child. She knew by heart what was waiting: cathead biscuits and gravy, bacon, sausage, eggs, pancakes, freshly churned butter and homemade jellies and jams. Hastily, she ran a brush through her hair and wove it into the one long braid before squeezing into her jeans and boots.

“Morning, sleepyhead!” her father greeted. “We’d just about given up on you. Thought that maybe your new Yankee ways were gonna let you start sleeping in now.”

“Not quite,” she smiled. “I’m still just a little behind with all the traveling.”

“Well then, maybe you’d better sleep in today and see what you’re feeling up to doing in a day or two,” her brother Marcus sarcastically suggested.

“You WISH!” she teased. “I can still show you up out there any day of the week!”

They all enjoyed a good laugh and exchanged more teasing barbs about what each of them could do better than the other. Sibling rivalry was still alive and well in the Randall household.

John Randall beamed an admiring glance at his wife at the end of the table. “Yes sir,” he said. “It’s good to have all my babies home again,” and blew Janine a kiss across the way. “Now, off your butts and on your feet, you so-called cowhands. We’ve got some horses to round up and break in and a few steers to brand. It’s gonna be a long day and we’re gonna need all the help available to get through it.”

It had been a long but exhilarating day. Horsing around with her brothers and continuing to try and best them had been somewhat taxing for the girl. She realized she’d softened a little while removed from the life of a ranch hand, but she successfully hid the new blisters on her hands and the sunburn on the back of her neck. It was “good” pain she told herself and she had enjoyed every minute of familiarizing herself with ranch life again.

She had ridden close to her father for most of the day…waiting for the right opportunity to tell him she needed to talk to him until finally the opportunity had presented itself. As they were finishing up for the day, she spotted him sitting on a ridge alone overlooking the small herd of mustangs they had just gathered.

She rode up to join him. As he sat there deep in thought, he almost didn’t hear her approach. “They’re a beautiful sight, aren’t they?” she commented.

“Yes, they are. They really are,” he replied, wiping his brow with a bandana. “All wild and so beautifully free – almost a thing of the past.”

The sun was just beginning to set across the horizon and cast a golden orange glow behind the herd that lent them an almost saint-like halo. Small clouds of dust trailed submissively behind them.

“We only take a few, you know?” he muttered, in deep thought. “And I hate to take even those. Seems almost a sin to take them from the hills where they were born and bred.”

“I know what you mean,” she said. “I’ve always thought the same thing.

“Yes, but the herds do need to be thinned out, you know? Kinda like family,” he said, smiling in her direction.

She laughed. “Yes, I guess they do. I never thought of it that way.”

“Come on, little girl. Time to head in. Your mother will have supper on the table and wondering where in the dickens we are.”

“Dad,” she called after him, as he turned his horse to go.

He paused and looked in her direction.

“I need to talk with you…sometime soon…when you can spare the time - one of those old heartfelt talks like we used to have a long time ago.”

“Sure, little girl! Any time you say. Would tonight after supper be too soon for you?”

“That would be great,” she nodded. “Race you back to the house, old man?” she called out over her shoulder, and took off at breakneck speed.

“Whatever you think you’re up to!” he laughed, and set his horse to a rigorous gallop.

Chapter 6.

Meal times on the ranch were particularly important for bonding with each other and the evening meal was the most noteworthy, as it allowed the most time together at the close of day. After supper, they all adjourned to the large family room where the men usually enjoyed a cigar and whiskey and the women had a sherry or two. Often times, Janine entertained them with a few family favorites on the old Harpsichord she had brought with her all the way from Boston when she had married.

John excitedly brought out the new pipe Amy had gifted him and passed it around for his sons to try. They were all in agreement that it was a worthy purchase before daringly offering it to Amy to try. Reluctantly, she passed.

Finally, John arose from his chair and called to Amy: “Come along, little girl. I think it’s time we had that little talk you were needing. Let’s head out to the porch. Nothing like a rocking chair talk on a beautiful Texas night to clear the air.”

He reached for her hand as he approached her and placed his arm around her shoulder as they went through the front door.

The evening was monumental. An epic sky was infused through and through with a ceiling of gleaming stars and the sweet smell of sassafras that lined the river flooded through the evening breeze. It was invigorating. She closed her eyes and breathed in deeply so as to familiarize herself again with the delightful scent.

“There’s nothing like it, is there?” he whispered. “It cleanses the soul and makes you whole again.”

“Absolutely,” she replied, gazing off into the exceptional brilliance of the night sky. “Nothing like a Texas sky, is there? No where, no time, no place I’ve ever been has there ever been anything more beautiful.”

“Makes you believe in God, doesn’t it?” he sighed. “Not just that,” he went on. “Every living thing I see out here every day…in the hills…on the river….in the miracles of life and death…in the flora and fauna…every single thing that has ever been created for us. I appreciate it all every single day.” He rocked back in his chair and took another draw from the pipe. “How could you not?” he mused, staring off into the night sky.

“I never thought of you as a poet,” she smiled.

He chuckled. “Well, I’m not,” he blushed, “…but I guess that’s what Texas does to you...makes you kinda appreciate what God’s seen fit to gift us with, doesn’t it?”

“You amaze me,” she said. “I’ve never seen this side of you.” She reached over and placed her hand in his. “Now, I can finally see why mother fell in love with you.”

“And I thank God every day that she did!” he said…squeezing her hand.

“So, on a more serious note…” he said, turning toward her. “What’s this God awful burden that’s weighing so heavily on your shoulders at this point in your life?”

She breathed a heavy sigh. “That’s just it! What am I going to do with my life?”

“The question is, my dear - what do you want to do in your life that you haven’t already done?”

“Teach,” she said, without hesitation.

“Interesting,” he said, scratching his stubbled chin.

“The question is, I guess – WHO do you want to teach?”

“Children. Children who are not as fortunate as I’ve been. Children who haven’t much hope for their future. Children who don’t realize there’s a whole world out there waiting for them to explore and learn from. Children who have only known the poverty and toil of life. Children who don’t realize that they can channel their efforts and dreams into something that may make them happier.”

She slipped off her boots before going on. “From what I’ve learned in the short time I’ve lived, the most important things in life are Options! Options to pursue your dreams. Options to change your life. Options to be all that you can be…and I am astonished at the number of less fortunate young people who don’t realize there are other options in life besides blindly following where others lead you.”

“Why, girl, you’re a rebel at heart!” he laughed, “and that makes me pretty proud,” he said patting her hand.

They sat in silence for a while…contemplating all they had recently learned about each other.

“Your mother says that your grandfather has already told you he’s willing to finance whatever you decide to do.”

“Yes, but I want to honor that pledge which makes my decision all the more difficult.”

“So, why don’t you start a small school somewhere for underprivileged children?” he asked.

“But where?” she asked, turning toward him.

“Why not here - in our area?” He rose from the chair and leaned against the porch railing peering into the night. “You know, there are a lot of poor children right here where you grew up who won’t ever have a chance to further their education and realize their dreams like you were lucky enough to do. You could start a boarding school and give out scholarships to the children who need them so they might have as good a chance at realizing their dreams as you did.” He took a deep draw from the pipe before adding: “You know, this area is growing fast and more and more families have moved here in the past few years. And for now, all there is is a one room school that only teaches children the bare essentials of what they need to know through the seventh grade.” He turned toward her – “They need more if they are ever going to make something better of their lives….and you could give them that.”

“But I couldn’t do that by myself,” she said.

“You wouldn’t have to, dearest. Your mother would be glad to help you get started and you’d have the money to hire people to help you and build the school you need. You’ll have the money – all you need is the vision to make it come true. Why, you might even talk that ornery old grandfather of yours into coming out here and overseeing the whole thing. After all, he does know how to handle money and he definitely loves to order people around. It would give the ole coot something to do and might even make him young again. Hell, if I know that old man he’d probably talk some of those rich connections of his into donating money so he wouldn’t have to spend his own!”

“Oh, my God – you’re a genius!” she shouted, jumping from her chair and throwing her arms around his neck.

“I do have an ulterior motive, you know,” he admitted, timidly. “I’m just trying to hang on to you, little girl –for as long as I can.”

“I know,” she said, “I know,” and hugged him closer to her.

Chapter 7.

She’d written to her grandfather late that night to let him know her plans for the future and urging him to join her in her endeavors. She stressed she needed his financial insight as well as his business advice. She also emphasized how much she missed him, how good the climate would be for his health, and how there was plenty of room for him to stay at the ranch until they could get the school and their living quarters built. She also requested if he did decide to move to Texas, would he please, please, please bring Magnus with him.

After that, all she could do was wait.

Within the three weeks that had seemed like a lifetime, a rider came from town with a telegram for her. It was from her grandfather. It read simply: “On our way. Find builder and lodging for 2 more. Bringing help. Arrival date and time to follow shortly...” Amy was ecstatic and immediately began making plans for her grandfather’s room and preparing a stable for Magnus.

“It’s all coming together,” she told her mother, as she handed her the telegram.

“Oh, my!” Janine smiled. “We’d better start making preparations right away. I wonder what your father is going to think about dad staying with us indefinitely,” she smirked.

“He’s fine with it,” the girl replied. “As a matter of fact, he’s the one who suggested that grandfather come and help run the school. Frankly, I think he’s just so glad to have you and I back that he’d be agreeable to anything.” They both giggled at the thought of how much John Randall had mellowed since they’d returned home.

“Well, let’s get busy,” Janine suggested, as she bustled up the stairs. “We’re going to both have our hands full for the next few months, and don’t worry about finding extra lodging. We’ve got plenty of room here for three more guests. We may not have all of the Boston finery that they’re all accustomed to but we’ve built a nice home here and we have plenty of Texas hospitality to offer.”

The next weeks were spent running back and forth to town negotiating with a builder, scouring mail order catalogues for supplies, and ordering ample food for the guests they were to feed for an indefinite period of time. Janine had also taken care to order new linens for the bedroom that was to be her fathers and a supply of his favorite brandy and cigars.

“I won’t have them think we’re primitive out here,” Janine said, when John had raised an eyebrow at the bills she’d presented to him for their recent purchases.

“I didn’t say a word,” he responded. “Here’s a blank check. You’ve been signing those yourself for quite a while now, you know? Just get what you need and don’t give it a second thought,” he smiled. “After all, we have a daughter now who’s independently wealthy!”

She laughed and planted a kiss on his forehead.

Extra help had been hired from town and the place had been cleaned inside and out and from top to bottom. New shrubs had been planted, the barn, the bunkhouse, and the stables had all been given a fresh coat of paint, and three new rocking chairs had been purchased for the front porch. Company was coming and it was going to be memorable.

By the time the rider again came up their road to deliver the next telegram from her grandfather, they were spit shined and ready to enthusiastically greet their guests.

“Friday, 2:00 pm, bring horse trailer and 2 wagons to haul supplies. Eager to see you. Love to all, your Benefactor” the telegram read.

“Horse trailer, my foot,” Amy thought to herself. “We won’t need any horse trailer – I’m riding my boy home!” She didn’t know if she was more excited to see Magnus, or her grandfather, or the guests he was bringing with him. It was a mere two days until their arrival but she knew she would find no rest at all until they were finally there.

Chapter 8.

The day of their arrival, Janine had urged Amy to don one of her prettiest dresses, but knowing she secretly planned on riding Magnus home from the train station, she was having none of it. Everything was ready for their guests. Everything on the place had been polished, shined or painted. All the ranch hands and house staff had been outfitted in new clothes and all of the horses had been groomed to a high sheen. Amy could hardly contain her excitement and had been up since the break of dawn every morning making certain that no detail had been overlooked.

“My God, you’d think the President of the United States was descending upon us today,” John Randall had commented. “Are you ladies about ready to leave for town?” he called up the stairs. “I’d hate for you to be late to this grand arrival after all the time and effort you’ve devoted to this.”

Both females came charging down the stairs simultaneously, hair flying, cheeks flushed, and giggling like schoolgirls primed for their first day of school. Both brothers, coiffed and in their new clothes, new hats, and new boots offered their hand to escort the women to the door.

“I’m certainly a lucky, lucky man,” John Randall proffered following closely behind.

The ride to town had taken less than an hour and the family had chattered all the way there about plans for the new school and suppositions about who the other guests might be that the grandfather was bringing with him.

The train had arrived early and, as the family approached, they spied the grandfather pacing there in all his dignified splendor.

He smiled upon seeing Amy jump from the moving carriage and running toward him. “My girl, my girl,” he said, extending his arms to embrace her. “You’ll kill yourself one of these days with your outlandish behavior!”

The girl smothered the old man in kisses and enthusiastically threw both arms around his neck. “I am so glad you’re finally here, you old scoundrel. So, so glad,” she said, as she clung to him for an inordinate length of time.

Introductions to the grandsons he’d never met were made, a firm handshake was extended from John Randall along with a welcoming word and a pat on the back, and a warm embrace and a kiss on the check were bestowed by his only adoring daughter.

All the while, Amy’s eyes searched the train platform for any sign of her beloved Magnus. Just then, further down the platform she saw a man holding the reins and pulling something toward him from a car on the train. She heard the familiar whinny and snorts as the magnificent Magnus came rushing down the planks and almost dragged the young man off before he managed to seize the stallion under control.

“Alto, alto,” the man called out and holding up his hand to bring the steed under control. Approaching him confidently, he rubbed his hand along the horse’s neck and whispered something in his ear. The horse immediately settled and began surveying his surroundings. When Amy saw the horse, she began running toward him and calling his name “Magnus, Magnus!” The horse whirled around toward the sound of her voice and broke free from his captor running toward the young girl as soon as he heard her calling his name.

They met abruptly in the middle of the train platform scattering the other alighting passengers and their luggage in all directions. It was as if no one else in the world existed but the two of them.

It was a celebrated reunion like one imagined in story books – two old souls who had been apart for far, too, long - who had yearned for, and sorely missed, the company of each other, and who had once again become one spirit then reunited. In spite of the chaos their meeting had created, the people stood by silently smiling at the bond of mutual affection that transpired between the two. The girl grabbed the plentiful mane of the stallion and hoisted herself on to his bare back and began trotting him to her family at the far end of the platform. Waiting passengers cleared a path as if awaiting some visiting royalty.

“This is my Magnus,” she said, turning the horse to the side, so that her family might gain a full view of the steed. “Isn’t he just magnificent?” she asked the admiring audience.

They were all in accord with the girl that there had never been a mount more worthy of such praise when the young Spaniard who had been unloading the horse came running up to them breathlessly.

“Family, meet the grandson of one of my dearest and oldest friends, Santiago Don Phillipe Marquez. This illustrious steed was bred and born on Senor Santiago’s grandfather’s ranch in Spain and he raised him from a colt.

The young man removed his hat and made a sweeping bow in the family’s direction and stated: “I am honored to make your acquaintance,” he said, “…and very pleased to be in this your magnificent and great State of Texas.

Chapter 9.

After all introductions had been made and pleasantries exchanged, Janine quizzed her father: “I thought you said you were bringing two extra guests?”

“Oh yes,” the old man replied. “Here she comes now – my indispensible chief, cook and bottlewasher, Ruby Jane. She’s been with me for 20 years overseeing my household and my cuisine. Here she comes now waddling up the platform while she barks out her orders to the porters about all of our luggage. I couldn’t survive without her and she will make a fine addition to your school, my girl,” he added, turning in Amy’s direction.

“And I had better see to the loading of this stallion,” the young Mexican stated, reaching for the reins of the horse.

“That won’t be necessary,” Amy replied, jerking the reins tighter in her hands. “I’ll be riding him back to the ranch from here and we’ll probably be there long before you are.”

“But wait senorita, and I will bring you your saddle from the train,” Santiago offered, and started for the train.

“That won’t be necessary either,” the girl replied kicking Magnus in the side and urging him into a gallop.

“I’m afraid there’s not much arguing with that girl,” Janine replied. “She’s pretty headstrong like her father.”

“And like her mother,” John Randall replied laughing.

John and his sons helped secure the loading of all of the luggage and supplies their visitors had brought with them and to their surprise found that the travelers had brought another horse with them– an Andalusian filly that belonged to Santiago named “Viento.”

The drive to the ranch was filled with chatter about the trip out west, about what they’d seen, where they’d stopped along the way, and about plans for the future. Amy and Magnus were nowhere to be seen undoubtedly having left the main road in favor of a vigorous run across the countryside.

When they finally reached the ranch, Amy was parading Magnus in front of the ranch hands and babbling about his lineage to anyone who would listen. She only paused when she spied Santiago starting to unload the mare he’d brought with him.

Inquisitively, she led Magnus closer to the horse as the mare was being unloaded and led toward the water trough. Santiago smiled at her curiosity and at Magnus’ willingness to draw closer.

“She is a beauty, is she not?” he asked Amy, shyly. “Her name is Viento – Spanish for ‘The Wind.’”

“Yes, she surely is. And I think Magnus thinks so, too,” she laughed, as the stallion moved closer to the mare and began nuzzling her in between dipping into the water trough.

“Come along,” the girl urged. “I’ll show you to the stable and we’ll get some feed into these two and give them a vigorous rubdown. I’m sure they need it.”

The young man followed the girl all, too, willingly – admiring her as she led the way.

Chapter 10.

Dinner that evening was a lively occasion and the Randall table shone with Janine’s finest china, silver and crystal that had been gifted to her and her husband as wedding gifts so many years ago. The meal included a wide assortment of meats, vegetables, breads and Cherries Jubilee rounded out the evening.

Finally, the grandfather stood up to propose a lavish toast to the future school and elaborate on his plans for the girl’s endeavors.

“First, let me say,” he said. “…that I brought Ruby Jane with me because she has been a vital part of running my household for years and years and I cannot imagine functioning anywhere without her expertise in all things that are entailed in running a happy and successful household.” With much applause, Ruby Jane stood and bowed to the guests, her cheeks blushing in embarrassment at the accolades bestowed on her by her employer.

“Next,” he added, “I have brought this young man with me because…,” he pointed in Santiago’s direction, urging him to rise “first, he is a brilliant horseman with a far superior knowledge of all things equine than most men who are twice his age.” Santiago blushed and started to sit down. “No wait,” the old man went on. “He is also a graduate of one of the finest colleges in Boston, having completed his studies a year earlier than was required, is an accomplished painter, photographer and poet and speaks three languages fluently. He will make an excellent addition to your school, Amy.”

Santiago waved the compliments away and took his seat smiling and bowing.

“I feel sure these two individuals will make a great addition to your faculty, my dear,” the old man added nodding in Amy’s direction, “and they are both eager and willing to participate in helping you make a success of your dream.” “So,” he added, raising his glass, “I propose a toast to the success and establishment of your new endeavor, my dearest Amy, and my continued best wishes for your happiness.”

The guests all stood and raised their glasses in Amy’s direction. Amy sat smiling, while tears welled up in her eyes.

After dinner, the men all adjourned to the porch rockers for cigars and brandy, while the women gathered in the sitting room to listen to Janine churn out some classical selections on the harpsichord.

“It doesn’t get much better than this,” the grandfather said, raising his glass to the night. “Tell me, John Randall, how do you manage to have so many more stars here at night than we do back East?”

“It does seem that way,” John said, chuckling and peering up at the night sky. “You know,” he went on “…when I was just a boy my dad said to me, “’Keep your eyes on the stars and your heart full of hope and you’ll make your way in this old world just fine.’ I’ve never forgotten that and I’ve never stopped doing it, which is, I guess, why we’re doing all right out here these days.”

Amy sauntered out and took a seat on the opposite end of the porch. After a few minutes, Santiago arose and strolled to where the girl sat.

“May I join you, my lady?” he asked, bowing.

“If you wish,” she said, motioning to the rocking chair beside her.

They sat rocking for a long time not speaking.

Finally, Santiago asked the question that had been bothering him since he arrived. “I pray you do not mind that your grandfather took it upon himself to bring me with him and suggest that I might find a place to assist you in your school?”

“It’s HIS money,” the girl answered, nonchalantly.

“But it is YOUR dream!” he added thoughtfully.

“Tell me,” she said, turning in her chair to face him. “Why here? Why now? What do you hope to accomplish?”

He turned to face the girl but then stared off into the night sky as if collecting his thoughts. “It is really very simple and I know it will probably sound somewhat conceited, but I have had one wish all of my life since I was a boy. I wish to inspire people, especially children, to feel like they may rise above their station in life and achieve great things, not only for themselves, but for others, as well.”

Amy sat silently astonished at the young man’s goals which mirrored her own. Finally, she reproached him: “My grandfather told you to say that, didn’t he?”

“Oh no, senorita, I can assure you that he did not,” Santiago was quick to react. “Why should he? I first told him of my feelings when he broached the subject of you starting a school for less fortunate children.” The young man sat back down before going on: “You know when I was a young boy growing up in Spain I saw a good deal of poverty in my country and children running the streets in bare feet with no hope of ever achieving anything better. So, when I graduated from college, my father and I started a school there and I taught languages and art for a few semesters. Now,” he said, “…the school is self supporting and funded to a great degree from the government and wealthy patrons. It was time for me to move on,” he said, pacing back and forth on the porch, “to explore new adventures, to see for myself this vast and wonderful Tejas.”

Chapter 11.

The night had been a restless one for Amy. She had been intrigued by Santiago’s reasoning for coming out West, but she still did not trust his motives – much the same as she had not trusted any young man’s intentions in the past.

The next morning she noticed Santiago’s absence from breakfast and commented: “Where is our conquistador this fine morning? Did he decide to sleep in?”

John Randall was more than pleased to tell her that Santiago had long before had his breakfast and had decided to go for a morning ride.

“And you let him go out there alone?” she asked. “He could get lost out there, dad. You know that. He doesn’t know this country or his way around. You should have insisted that one of the hands go with him.”

John Randall found mild amusement in his daughter’s sudden interest in the young Spaniard’s welfare. “He seems more than adequately prepared to take care of himself,” he called out after the girl as she went stalking out the door.

After quizzing one of the hands about the direction the young Spaniard had headed, Amy and Magnus were quick to be off. She had been riding for almost an hour when she spotted him riding at break neck speed along side of the wild mustangs that roamed the hills. She fired a shot into the air from the Winchester she was carrying and the young man quickly drew up his horse and turned in her direction. She waved her hat at him and proceeded down a narrow trail toward the young man. The Spaniard stopped beside the river to water his horse as he waited for the girl to approach.

“I could not wait to explore,” he said. “And Viento was eager for a good run, as well.”

It’s still dangerous out here, you know,” the girl chided. “Rattlers, a few bobcats, a herd of wild hogs just waiting to gore you. You could have gotten lost or injured out here.”

“You don’t think we have such perils in Spain, my lady? I can assure you we do and that I have a keen sense of direction and always mark my trail when I am in an unknown territory.”

“I see you raced with the mustangs,” she said, as she watched them beginning to gather down by the river.

“Yes, it was exhilarating. Come, let us have a cool drink here,” he said, dismounting from his horse and offering his hand to the girl.”

As she slid from her horse, the young man placed his hands around her waist to lift her gingerly to the ground. It was a new experience for the girl - the sensation of chills that ran through her body as he touched her and gently placed her on the ground. She became flustered, yet lingered in his grasp, for a few more seconds than necessary enjoying this new experience. Finally, he released her, slightly embarrassed and blushing at this momentary intimacy they had just experienced.

“Did you bring a canteen?” he asked, averting his eyes.

“Yes, oh yes,” she stammered.

“Good! Let us fill them with some fresh water from this river and bathe our feet in its’ coolness.”

They sat together on a large rock, pant legs rolled up, dipping and swishing their bare feet in the chill of the river’s current. Neither of them spoke while they shared in the natural beauty of their surroundings.

Yet, even in silence, both of them strongly suspected that they were about to embark on a memorable journey together.

The ride back to the ranch was filled with idle chatter from Amy about how her family had started the ranch, what they had endured during the lean years, and about her plans for the school. Santiago listened intently to the girl understanding for the first time why the girl’s grandfather was so enamored of her.

The couple spent the better part of two hours brushing, grooming and feeding the horses after they returned to the ranch. Amy also laid out her plans to include a stable of horses at the school, as well as other animals, so that the students of the school might develop an appreciation for caring for and tending to them. Santiago listened attentively to the young woman’s plans becoming more captivated by the minute.

Chapter 12.

The next few days were riddled with excitement as all concerned pored over the architectural plans the grandfather brought with him, spent hours thumbing through catalogues to decide on and order furnishings, and met with the local builder Amy had suggested. Each day she felt brought her closer to her goal and matured her more fully in the eyes of all of those who supported her in that dream. She appeared to be metamorphosing from a girl to a responsible young woman before their eyes.

In the days that followed, Amy and Santiago arose shortly after dawn and headed out running their horses across the vast expanse of the ranch. A couple of days they had returned ecstatically with a catch of fresh fish they had extracted from the river and one day with an injured mustang colt that would require both of their undivided medical attention for a few days before it could be safely returned to the herd.

The family watched in mild delight at the bond that was developing between the two.

In spite of the countless hours spent in making plans for the school, Janine stayed occupied making her own plans for a welcoming party for their guests at the ranch that Saturday night. The whole town and all of their neighbors had been invited and Janine planned on making it unforgettable. Lanterns would be strung, music would be played, table after table of foods would be laid out, and she was determined that a memorable time would be had by all.

The afternoon of the party, Janine has insisted that Amy rest and enjoy a long, leisurely bath in preparation for the night’s events. She had carefully unpacked the pale blue dress that her father had insisted on buying for the girl while they were in Paris. “You never know when you may need a beautiful evening dress for a special occasion. I insist that you have it,” he’d said.

The dress looked like a vision in soft blue tulle. Small white satin rosebuds adorned the scoop neckline and delicate white lace scalloped the hemline and sleeves. Janine and Ruby Jane had fussed for two hours on the girl’s hair, brushing, pinning, and cascading a mountain of curls that hung down past her shoulders.

“Why, miss, you look breathtaking!” Ruby Jane exclaimed as she stepped back to admire their handiwork. “Yes, she does,” Janine agreed, “Just like I always pictured you going to a cotillion somewhere. Now, where is that camera your grandfather gave you?” she asked, rushing toward the closet and searching through the shelves. “Oh, here it is! We must have a picture. Here, sit over here on the chaise lounge and fluff the dress out around you. Oh, this will be divine,” she said, excitedly. “I can’t wait for everyone to see it,” she babbled.

Just then, there was a slight tapping at the door and John Randall peered sheepishly into the room. “May I come in?” he asked. Ruby Jane opened the door all the way for him and then quietly crept out into the hall.

Janine complimented him when he came into the room dressed in his vested suit. “You look so handsome,” she said, approaching him and placing a kiss on his cheek. “Almost like the day we married…” she paused, “…but even more handsome.”

It had been a long, long time since Janine had seen John Randall blush.

“All right. Enough of that. Let me look at both of you before I’m forced to share you with the world.” He stood back admiring each of the women separately and complimenting them on how beautiful they looked. Each, in turn, blushed and curtsied as his praises were heaped upon them. “I just have to say,” he beamed, “I must be the luckiest sonofabitch in all of Texas tonight!”

Chapter 13.

The night was ablaze with stars again when John Randall stepped out onto the porch that evening. Fiddle music floated across the plains and the air was rich with the pungent aromas of grilling barbecue, corn on the cob, potato salad, peach cobbler and a spicy array of homemade pickled assortments. People were dancing and laughing on the lawn as more guests proceeded up the road to the festivities.

“You people really know how to throw a party,” the grandfather said, as he sidled up to John Randall. “Where are our ladies?” he asked.

“Waiting to make their grand entrance, of course,” John whispered to him. “Look out,” he said moving to the side of the door. “I think I hear their giggles floating down the stairs right now.”

As the women glided through the front door, each of the men moved in place to take the arm of his own daughter.

“Ladies and gentlemen,” John announced, “May I introduce you to the belles of the ball – Janine and Amy Randall?”

The guests erupted in applause and laughter.

“Come, little girl,” John whispered to Amy, “…you must give your old dad the privilege of the first dance.” As they stepped out onto the lawn, Janine and her father followed suit.

A short while into the dance, a hand tapped John Randall on the shoulder and asked: “May I respectfully ask to cut in, Senor Randall?”

Santiago stood, in all of his finery, waiting for his response with a broad smile on his face.

“By all means,” John answered. “And may I say you have excellent taste in dance partners?”

Taking the girl’s hand, he whispered in her ear: “I have looked forward to this moment all day.” Stepping slightly back for a better look at his partner, he continued…”and may I say it was well worth the wait. You, gracious lady, look sublime.”

“Muchas gracias,” she whispered demurely. “And may I say – you look dangerously handsome in your suit?” she queried. “I’m sure all the young ladies here tonight will be clamoring for your attention.”

Timidly, he responded: “But you know all, too, well senorita, that I have eyes for no one but you.”

At that moment, Amy’s grandfather tapped him on the shoulder and interrupted their conversation. “I think you have monopolized this young lady long enough, Santiago. It’s time to share her attention with her doting grandfather.” Santiago bowed and stepped aside.

An announcement was made about the forthcoming school that was to be built just outside of town amidst the jubilant applause and cheers of the guests. Several local business owners offered not only their support in building the school, but their financial support, as well. The evening was swimming in good will and well wishes for the success of their new venture.

When the evening began to draw to a close, Amy noticed Santiago steal away from the festivities and venture down toward the stables. Shortly thereafter, she followed him. She found him there talking to the Andalusians, both of whose noble heads hung out of the stalls listening to him intently.

“I thought I might find you here,” she said, as she swept into the stables.

“And I am so glad you did,” he said nervously. He moved toward the young woman quickly and took both of her hands in his before adding: “It seems like I have waited my entire life for this.”

Quickly, he placed one arm around her waist and the other behind her head drawing his mouth to her lips in an extended and passionate kiss.

And for the first time in her life, Amy Randall returned the favor.

Chapter 14.

When Janine Randall saw Amy and Santiago walking back from the stables that night arm in arm, she knew the girl’s destiny was sealed, and Janine found contentment in that knowledge. She knew it was the first and only time that Amy had ever taken an interest in any young man and she was elated with her choice. He came from a good family. He was educated. He had wealth of his own. He was gracious and kind, and he most certainly had the charm and good looks to hold a woman’s interest for a lifetime.

From that night on, they had become inseparable. And without any formal announcement, everyone who saw them together knew where their relationship would inevitably lead. They became children together, again, laughing, fussing, toying with each other’s emotions, and constantly exploring each other’s personalities.

In the days that ensued, the family discussed the plans for the school together with Amy, as always, having the final word on any decision. As the building of the school progressed, supplies and furnishings arrived, and adequate staff were interviewed and hired to assist with the school’s daily functions.

John Randall willingly donated the land for the school and stables, as well as the labor of some of his ranch hands, when needed. The construction of the school progressed on schedule with the full cooperation of the often erratic Texas weather. Separate cottages were also constructed for Amy and her grandfather with the old man’s quarters being more elaborate than the rest.

Ultimately, it became apparent that a name for the school must be decided upon. And, after all suggestions had been made and considered “The New Hope School” was so named.

It would appear that God was on their side, as days passed and the progress of the school proceeded in a timely manner. And as the obvious evolution of the school became more apparent, so did the evolving relationship of Amy and Santiago.

They had not only evolved into devoted friends but close confidants, as well. One was not seen without the other to the point that eventually people expected to see them always in each other’s company.

Chapter 15.

After months of discussion, preparation, and effort, the school was nearing completion. The staff had all been hired and trained and all but a few of the last minute preparations had been made. To say it was a relief that things had gone so smoothly would have been an understatement. The school had been announced and publicized in newspapers and periodicals all over the State and notable endorsements, due to the recommendations of family and friends, had ensured a full student body for the school’s opening. Amy felt fortunate about what lay ahead for her future and that of the school she had envisioned so many years ago.

Considering all of their recent good fortune, Janine was surprised to hear sobs coming from Amy’s bedroom, as she passed by her door late one night. Suspiciously, she pushed open the girl’s bedroom door to find her lying on her bed sobbing quietly into her pillow.

“Oh no, we can’t have this, my girl,” she said, quickly entering the room. “There is nothing on God’s green earth that could be worth all this.”

She sat the girl up and gathered her in her arms, stroking her hair, and cradling her to her breast. “No, no, no – we are not having this,” she admonished. “Just tell me what and who it is that has brought you to this state of affairs and I will have your father and brothers deal with them in short order!”

The girl smiled and wiped away the tears from her cheek. “Oh no, it’s not that,” she sat up and said. “I’m not unhappy – It’s just the opposite - I’m ecstatic!” she said.

“Ecstatic?” Janine asked her. “What in heaven’s name do you mean? Please explain yourself, so I know exactly what’s going on with my little girl.”

“That’s just it, mother,” she said. “I’m not your little girl anymore. Finally, I am becoming a woman - making decisions for myself and becoming enchanted by the life that has so generously been placed in my path.

The young woman sat up on her bed dabbing at her eyes with a handkerchief. “I never knew I could really fulfill my dreams and actually see them come true. I mean…” she went on… “make myself believe that they weren’t just dreams. That I could actually participate in and see them come to life. I feel so fortunate to be in this family, to be a woman, to be able to finally give back at least a part of the joy that I’ve been so blessed to receive.”

Janine hugged the girl closer to her. “Is that all?” she laughed.

“No,” the girl smiled timidly - it isn’t. There’s something else – something I never thought I would do in my life. Something else has happened. Santiago has asked me to be his wife, and I have told him ‘Yes.’”

* * * *

To say that everyone in this story lived happily ever after would be unrealistic to say the least. The school was a remarkable success run by Amy and Santiago and the grandfather until the old man died some 10 years or so later. The couple’s wedding had been the event of the year, and years later, two children, a boy and a girl, had brought further joy into their long and full lives. John Randall had died out on the range from a heart attack in his late 60’s and Janine Randall had survived until well in her 80’s still living on and running the ranch that had once been her husband’s dream.

Much had changed through the years. Andalusians were bred and raised on the ranch and became heralded as a remarkable breed soon notable in the Texas hill country.

As for the New Hope School, in the years that ensued, it far surpassed Amy Randall’s dream in becoming a beacon to light the way for underprivileged children. Today, the halls are lined with achievement awards, trophies, old photographs, plaques of honor and the long forgotten dreams of a little girl who once thought herself to be somewhat disenchanted with life…

The End

By: jb pearce

jan@jsmagic.net

05-29-18

1,219 words

Comments