EC28

Emily's Chronicles: Part 28: A New Years Double Wedding
By Trish and Tammy
Disclaimer: The following is a work of fanfiction. Emily of New Moon was created by L.M. Montgomery and is the property of her, her estate, and her heirs, not me. No copyright infringement is intended and no profit was made.


"We wanted to tell all of you before we told the rest of the family."
Malcolm looked around a bit nervously. "That is why we've asked you to come this
afternoon." It was the day after Christmas and he was standing beside the
large Queen Anne chair that graced the corner of the parlor of Isabel and
Francis's cottage. Judith, seated in the chair, looked equally
uncomfortable as she stared around the room at the faces of her family.

"What is it you want to tell us, Father?" Isabel asked, she was reclining
comfortably against the side of the davenport, Byron sleeping against her
shoulder. Francis sat beside her on the arm of the sofa, a very much awake
Lucy in his arms. Closer to the fire Jimmy and Eve sat together on the love
seat, with Gussy Dan sitting cross-legged on the floor in front of them, his
full attention fixed on the his mother and Malcolm.

"Yes, Mum and Malcolm, what is it?" Eve smiled and then looked slyly at
Isabel who returned a knowing glance.

Malcolm, squirmed a bit. He wanted to tug at his collar but his sense of
decorum would not let him. 'Dash it all.' He thought to himself. 'Why does
Isabel have to keep it so hot in here?' He knew she kept the house warm for
the babies, but he was no more comfortable for the knowledge. He thought he
felt a little bead of sweat run down the back of his neck. He could not
admit to himself how truly nervous he was. He wondered what would be the
reaction of Eve and Gussy Dan, and of Jimmy. Most of all he was afraid of
what Isabel's reaction would be upon hearing the news that he and Judith
were planning to be married. She had spent years cursing the name of his
love Megan Moore, and she was so fiercely loyal to her mother. Malcolm hoped
this would be different. The entire circumstance was different. He wasn't
betraying her mother this time, he wasn't even betraying Megan. He knew he
had her blessing. She had made him promise to love again in time as she lay
dying. He didn't think he ever would, ever could, but Judith had brought so
much joy back into his life that to his amazement that is exactly what he
found himself doing, falling in love again.

Isabel was a grown woman now, with a husband and children of her own,
certainly she was capable of understanding the feelings he shared with
Judith. This time she was not a bewildered child unable to comprehend why
her father detested her mother so, and why he took it out on her. Malcolm
felt his throat tighten at that thought, and he silently condemned himself. That
was exactly what he had done for so many years. Taken it all out on Isabel,
the one true helpless victim in all of that mess. Certainly, though now,
after all Isabel had been through, she would understand about love. Their
relationship was so much different now, so much better, he prayed she would
understand, and give her blessing. She had changed so much in the last year.
Still he was glad that Francis and the twins were there with her, this would
help keep her calm if nothing else would. 'Well, might as well have out with
it.' The old man told himself, and cleared his throat.

"As you all know..." Malcolm began. "Judith and I have enjoyed each other's
company on several occasions." He smiled down at Judith who returned the
emotion.

"The truth is." He continued. "We've have very much enjoyed our growing
friendship, and we have both come to realize that it has turned into much
more than that." He reached down and took Judith's hand. "That is why we
have decided to..." He looked almost squeamishly at Isabel, "...to be
married."

It was obvious how happy the old couple was. They beamed at each other.
There was, however, a silence in the room. It was as if everyone was
waiting for an explosion. Francis ran his hand along Isabel's back, trying to brace
her or at least remind her that he supported her whatever her feelings, or
reaction. Isabel did start a bit at the news, but it was more out a surprise
than anger. She did feel a little strange that her father had fallen in love
once again with someone who was not her mother, but she had come to terms
with that a long time ago. She could even now feel some sympathy for Megan
Moore. Isabel knew there was never any love lost between her father and
mother, and maybe they were both equally to blame. Her mother had been a
very hard woman to live with, opinionated, stubborn, and at times vicious.
'I suppose that's the way I used to be.' She thought to herself and looked
at her husband, to whom she gave all the credit for every good change in her.

Suddenly she realized that the reason for the silence in her parlor was that
everyone was waiting to see how she would take the news. She also realized
that she had stayed silent far too long. Her father and Judith, looked as
though the were waiting for the sky to fall. Isabel turned to Francis and
handed Byron to him. They had become masters of unified movement since the
twins were born.

It was then that Isabel rose from the soft cushions of the sofa. She stood
at her full, nearly imposing height. She did not slouch, which had been her
tendancy since she was young in an attempt to disguise her five foot nine
inch frame. Her face conveyed no emotion, and those seated around the room
could garner nothing from her expression. She crossed the room to face
Malcolm and Judith as everyone held their breath.

"Well." Isabel said. "I for one am absolutely..." She could see Judith draw
in her breath, and her father steel his jaw. "...Thrilled." She smiled.
The family visibly relaxed as she took Judith by the hands and wordlessly
bid her to stand. She wrapped her arms around the woman who would soon be her
step-mother and was happy to find her gesture warmly returned. "Welcome to
the family...again." She smiled.

Judith touched her future stepdaughter's cheek, and smiled. "Thank you." Was
all she could say. Malcolm had told her what Isabel's reaction might be, and
she truly heartened that his daughter had accepted her so readily.

Isabel then turned to her father and hugged him warmly. "You certainly are
full of surprises these days, Father." She laughed.

"Aye, I certainly am." Malcolm grinned, choosing not to share just one more
secret quite yet.

Then first Eve, got up from the loveseat, she shared with her husband, and
warmly hugged her step-father-to-be, saying "It's going to be wonderful
having you for our father, Malc...I mean, Father. We've been fatherless
*much* too long, haven't we, little brother?" She said to Gussy Dan, who
was waiting his turn to give his future step-father a hug.

"Yeah Eve," he replied, as he then gave Malcolm a hug. "We have been
without a father *much* too long, I'm gonna love havin' you for a father,
Mal...uh, I mean, Father."

Overcome somewhat with saddness for his future family, Malcolm said, "Aye!
It t'wil be wonderful havin' you children as me own. I never had someone
who I could call me son, and now I'll finally have me own lad t' call me
own." as he lovingly embrassed young Gussy Dan, and running his fingers
through the boy's hair.

Gussy Dan soked up the attention. How strange and wonderful it would be to have a father who would never try to hit him, or berate him, or hurt his mother and sister. He shining eyes said it all as Malcolm hugged him close.

Eve had turned to her mother, and was looking at her silently. She barely knew where to begin. "Oh, Mother. I am so happy for you. You deserve all the best of everything." She embraced her mother for a long time. They both knew what was running through the other's mind. It was as if all the bad memories were being erased.

After a while Gussy Dan threw his arms around both of them and whispered. "I'm so happy Mother." All Judith could manage was a weak," So am I."

Francis stood and handed Lucy to Isabel. He walked over and with his free
hand took Malcolm's hand and shook it hartily. "Congratulations." He smiled.

"Thank you, my boy." Malcolm smiled, as his son-in-law warmly welcomed his
future wife to the family.

Jimmy also stood to congratulate the couple, shaking Malcolm's hand, and warmly hugging Judith. "We were all wondering when you two would get around to this." He smiled. Everyone laughed at the truth in his words.

As everyone's good wishes surrounded the old couple Eve made her way over to
Isabel who was quietly, but happily, watching her father's joyful face. She
could not remember when she had seen him so happy. Eve put her arm around
Isabel's shoulder. They did not realize they had suddenly become the center
of attention.

"Do you know what this means?" Eve asked Isabel.

"What?" Isabel grinned, her mind still spinning.

"We're going to be sisters." Eve smiled and hugged Isabel. "I've never had a
sister before."

Isabel looked down at her daughter who had awakened in her arm to survey the
festivities, and then over at her son who was being fawned over by his soon
to be stepgrandmother as he wriggled in his father's arms. Then she looked
at her father as she addressed Eve. "I did once." Isabel said her voice
faltering a little. "She died when she was very young. I never really knew
her."

Malcolm's heart wanted to burst at the depth of Isabel's gesture, and her
humility. In one quiet comment to Eve she had finally accepted the Wee
Angel, and had faced him as she said it. He quietly brought his hand to his lips
and blew a kiss across the room to his daughter. She understood, and smiled at
him, both trying to fight the tears coming to their eyes.

Eve understood also, Jimmy had told her of the Wee Angel, and of Isabel's
denial even of the child's very exsistence. She was truly touched by what
Isabel had just done for her father. "Maybe we can do all those sister
things that you never got to do with her." She suggested, hoping she has said the
right thing.

"I would like that." Isabel smiled at her as Francis who had watched the
entire scene quietly took her hand and kissed it, amazed once again at the
depth of her soul and spirit.

Then to Gussy Dan, Isabel said, "I never had a brother before. I'm going
to love finally having a little brother of me own t'love." as she lovingly
hugged the boy. "Hope you'll like having me for your second
sister...step-sister, too, Gussy Dan?"

With that revelation, realizing that he would be gaining himself another
sister, Gussy Dan said, as he still was held by Isabel in her arms, smiling
up at her--"Havin' two sisters, is better 'an one sister! Sure, I am!"
Then they all laughed at last statement. At that Eve and Isabel looked playfully at each other. Both taking one side, they bent down and gave Gussy Dan a loud kiss on the cheek from each of them. The boy, realizing he may just be in for more than he bargained for squirmed. "Yeah, but not that." He yelled. "Come on,... Mother."

Judith nearly in tears from laughter chided him as well. "Get used to it dear." Gussy Dan rubbed his cheeks and looked a bit disgusted as he turned to Jimmy to try to find refuge from so much female attention.

Suddenly Jimmy started to laugh to himself. "I know." He nearly yelled.
"Elizabeth and Joe are gettin' married on New Year's Day, you all could have
a double wedding, just like we had a triple wedding last summer."

"That is a wonderful idea., My Dear." Judith said, "But that's their day, I
certainly wouldn't want to intrude. Beside I don't have a thing to wear yet,
and that's only in a few days."

"Oh mother, you have that beautiful purple silk. The one that brings out
your eyes, and you've never worn it." Eve said. "Don't you think that would be
perfect."

"I suppose." Judith looked a little uncomfortable at the thought of imposing
on Elizabeth that way.

"Well." Malcolm pondered. "I don't suppose there would be any harm in just
asking."

"Of course not." Isabel smiled. "I'm sure they would love it."

"Well, lets all go over and tell them the news, and see what they think."
Jimmy said springing into action.

At that coats and shawls were hastily thrown on, babies were quickly bundled
against the cold, and everyone climbed into buggies on their way to New
Moon.
_____________________________________

Elizabeth looked up a bit shocked to see the numerous relatives that were
entering the parlor. She and Joe were sitting with Laura and Allen
discussing last minute preparations for their wedding which would be held in a little
less than a week. Emily and Ilse quickly hustled into the parlor, leaving
the dining room table a shambles of paper and glue. Since it was the middle
of winter, and there was nothing but dried leaves and berries to be found
for miles so they were creating an emmense garden of paper flowers for the happy
occasion.

"Well, what have we here?" Elizabeth smiled as she stood up and took little
Lucy and Byron from Isabel. She had missed the twins being in the house
since their parents had moved to the cottage and was always happy to spend time
with them. Isabel smiled and handed her daughter and son over to her doting
cousin. She was always proud to have her beautiful babies fawned over by
everyone, although she feared they would be hopelessy spoiled. "Father and
Judith have some wonderful news for everyone." She reported, barely able to
control the wide smile on he face.

"Oh, tell us. What is it?" Laura asked excited.

As the others found their usual places in the parlor Malcolm and Judith
remained standing. Judith looked a bit uneasy, and hoped Elizabeth would
feel bombarded into accepting if she did not really want to. Malcolm held her
hand and looked a bit nervous himself as he scuffed the floor a bit with his
boot. Emily and Ilse grinned at each other, ever watchful they had noticed the
gentleness with which the old man held Judith's hand.

"Well, we have decided to be married." He informed Elizabeth.

"Haaa, Oh, that's wonderful." Emily cried, running over to the couple and
throwing her arms around them. "I know you both will be so happy."

"Thank you Emily, dear." They both said together.

A wordless and sly look appeared on Elizabeth's face. The corners of her
mouth turned up as she looked over at Joe, who returned her glance. Judith
was afraid for a moment that the woman would laugh at them, but she calmed
herself by remembering who surprisinly accepting Isabel's reaction had been.
Hopefully Elizabeth would feel the same.

It was then that Elizabeth nodded slightly at Joe, once they were married he
would be the man of house, and it would be his place to give the offer. He
stood and joined his fiance. Putting his arm around her shoulders he made a
most surprising offer.

"We would be honored if the both of you would share our wedding day, on New
Years." He smiled.

Malcolm and Judith beamed with delight. They had not even had to ask, it was
being offered to them. "It would be our most humble pleasure. Thank you."
Malcolm smiled.
_______________________________________

New Year's Eve night of 1898 was not a typical one at New Moon. Usually
there would have a been a quiet dinner, and small very tasteful celebration in the
parlor afterword where in the midnight hour would have been noted with a
cheer, a chorus of "Auld Land Sign", and a prayer for the coming year. This
night however, the house was nearly in chaos. Just as had accompanied the
lavish triple wedding of the last summer the entire family gathered at New
Moon to help the brides and grooms prepare. Elizabeth and Judith were
cloistered upstairs in Elizabeth's bedroom, and once again the men enjoyed a
night of cards and cigars in the barn. The married couples did gather in
the parlor to celebrate the arrival of 1899, however the rest of the night was
spent getting the betrothed couples ready for the day ahead.

To everyone's relief the sun shone brightly on New Year's morning. There had
been fresh layer of snow falling during the night, and landscape was a scene
of crystal, perfect for such a wonderul occasion.

The ladies made everyone a large breakfast and served the men in the barn.
Elizabeth and Judith were so nervous they could barely eat a bite. After
breakfast the men dressed surprisingly quickly and headed off to the small
Blair Water Presbyterian Church were the service was to be held. The women
could prepare for the day in peace.

There they met with the presiding minister, the Reverend Johnson to prepare for their upcoming double wedding plans. With a brief rehearsal before *the* final moment at hand.

As they were discussing the wedding, quite unbeknowst to them, they were
being observed by the nosy Aunt Thom. Seeing Jimmy Murray, Malcolm Murray,
Francis Carpenter, Joe Samuels, and Perry, with the Reverend Johnson, she
wondered to herself, 'What in the Sam hill are Murray, Samuels', the
teacher, and Perry doin' here at the church this time of the day? Ain't them men
gettin'enough religion in thar lives?'

The ladies had finally been able to make their way toward the church as
morning wore on. The Murray's good sized buggy led a small procession and
carried the brides, Isabel, and Eve, and Laura. The second buggy, which
belonged to Dr. Burnley, was driven by Laughing water whose daughters sat in
from beside her. In the back seat Emily and Ilse could barely contain
themselves. The teased at the top of their lungs singing comical love songs,
and cooing. Elizabeth and Judith sat in the back of the first buggy along
with Isabel whose arms were filled with her two wriggling infants as they
approached the church, the elder women were both experiencing a severe case
of uncharateristic nerves. They bothed looked elegant in their well chosen
dresses. Eve had been right, her mother was breathtaking in her purple silk,
which Isabel had enlivened with a few yards of lace from one of her own
dresses. Elizabeth had chosen an understated light gray outfit, which she
allowed Laura to embellish slightly with a few pieces of burgundy velvet
aroung the collar and cuffs. She had even allowed herself the luxury of a
piece of jewelry. The brooch she had given given Laura when the younger
woman had married Allen Burnley, now clasped borrowed at her throat. Elizabeth
and Judith seemed to grow more anxious with each turn of the wheels. Isabel did
her best to calm them, but remembering how emotional she had been at her own
wedding knew her words of comfort would do no good until the ladies finally
saw the smiling faces of their intendeds. She wondered for a moment how her
father was getting on, and would be glad to finally get to the church to
check on both him and her husband. Eve had eagerly grabbed the reigns of the
Murray buggy which had been festively but tastefully decorated with flowers
and crepe paper. Her insistance on driving was a habit that she refused to
give up until she absolutely had to even thought Jimmy constantly begged her
to. Beside her Laura beamed brightly. Her joy was twofold this day, not only
was it her sister's wedding day at last, but she had felt her baby move for
the first time that morning. She had not even had a chance to tell Allen,
and was dreaming about his reaction as they neared the church.

Hearing buggies approaching the church, Aunt Thom ran to hide behind a large
bush. 'I'll be danged!' she thought to herself, as she saw Dr. Burnley and
Gussy Dan Kinch arriving with the women: the stately and proud Elizabeth
Murray, the very expectant Laura Burnley, and Isabel Carpenter; the widowed
Judith Kinch with her daughter; the very expectant Eve; Emily and Ilse all
decked-out in their finest Sunday wear - much to Aunt Thom's
surprise...there were them Injuns she heard so much about. 'How dare them Murrays bring with 'em them Injuns along with 'em to the church!?' Looking closer, she saw
the two little Indian girls; Star Child and Buffalo Child - "Hmmm. Them two Injun
kids look look harmless enough,' she thought herself. 'They are kinda on the cute
side. May be no harm'll come ta' my Perry, afterall'

Aunt Thom's eyes really got wide, as she watched as the men folk helping the
Murray, Burnley, Carpenter and Kinch women down from the buggies - for when
Laughing Water and Silver Fox offered to take Isabel's two children into
their care, for the time being. 'Oh dear!', she thought. 'Those little
ones' 'r' in trouble now!' Only to be more shocked, when Isabel (after
being reassured by Eve, that she had nothing to fear) handed them over to
the Injun couple. Then Aunt Thom watched, as they all entered the front
door of the church, being welcomed by the Reverend Johnson, as they gathered
indoors, he closed the double doors behind them. No sooner had Reverend
Johnson closed the doors - then Aunt Thom ran over to the nearest window to peek in
on the proceedings.

Inside, she saw what looked-liked to be a small wedding party assembling. In
the second row pews on either side of the aisle sat immediate family members
and close friends. Laughing Water, Silver Fox, and their girls had taken a
place on the right side of the church with Byron and Lucy, while John and
Sarah who had stayed the week, and come to the church on their own sat just
across from them. Sarah could not keep herself from looking wistfully over
at her little neice and nephew. She was bursting to tell the family what she
and John had decided, but thought it best to keep it to herself until there was
actually something to tell. Instead she gave up a silent prayer for what the
future might hold. Isabel also could not help looking over at the twins to
check them. She was sure that Eve would never allow anyone near the babies
who was not trustworthy. It was not that disliked or even really mistrusted
the Nez Perce family, but only that she had known them such a short time,
and would have been uneasy about relinquishing her children even for a short
time to any such reletive strangers. She felt Francis loving gaze upon her as she
looked backward to check on the twins. She smiled, and understood that maybe
she was being a bit over protective, 'besides' she thought to herself, 'look
at their two fine little girls, they must good with children.' She looked at
her husband a little apologetically, but his eyes told her there was no
need. He was also concerned for the children but had complete confidence in
Laughing Water and Silver Fox, through his smile he was also remembering the
day Isabel had looked when she became his wife. She had only grown more
beautiful to him since then.

Up front she saw the Reverend Johnson in the center with two Grooms; Malcolm
Murray and Joe Samuels; Best Men: Francis Carpenter and her Perry standing
to the left of him; to the right, she saw Laura Burnley and Eve Murray, the
Matrons of Honor along with the two Flower Girls; Emily and Ilse; next them,
Isabel, their Brides' Matron. Thinking to herself, Aunt Thom remarked,
'Don't those two look a sight standin' there great with children!?', for
which she giggled to herself. Then she saw Jimmy Murray and Gussy Dan
standing infront facing the Reverend ?? - holding the arms of the
Brides-to-Be; Elizabeth Murray and Judith Kinch; and seated on each pew,
she saw Dr. Burnley and the Indian Family with their children and the
Carpenter twins, along with John and Sarah. 'So that's what they're up
to...a Wedding! Miss Murray is marryin' that Samuels charact'r, and the
wid'w is marryin' Mr. Murray, are they!? Hmmm, she grunted. 'They all
deserve one ta nother, if I say so m'self.' She wanted to turn and storm
storm disgustingly off into the woods, however--her curiosity was nearly
eating her alive, and she wouldn't miss this sight for the world.
-----------------

"Dearly Beloved." The revernd began. "We come together today to join these
couples in holy matrimony. It can truly be said that the hand of God had
brought these people together in love and happiness. Is there anyone here
who sees any reason why they should not be joined?" There was of course no
answer.

Turning his attentions first to the younger couple the reverend asked. "Joe
Samuels. Do you take this woman Elizabeth Murray to be you lawful wedded
wife, to have and to hold, and forsaking all others through sickness and
health, in good fortune and bad, until death parts you from her side?"

"You better believe I do." Joe grinned at Elizabeth. At anyone else she
would have steamed for days over such exhuberant behavior in church. At Joe
however, she could never be angry. She mearly smiled widely and stiffled a
laugh. Everyone else did less well at containing their happy laughter.

Then is was Elizabeth's turn. The reverend once again asked, "Do you take
this man Joseph Elias Samuels to be you lawful wedded husband, to have and
to hold, and forsaking all others through sickness and health, in good fortune
and bad, until death parts you from her side?"

Her love and happiness consumed her. She had never felt so truly at peace
and hopeful. She looked at Joe, trying desperately not to cry, but a single tear
found its way down her cheek. "I do." was all she could manage to whisper,
though she wanted to say much more. She would tell Joe that night privately
all that was in her heart.

As the ceremony continued Emily began to feel a presence. It was not
unfamiliar and not uncommon. She had felt it many times before. She knew
that someone was watching, she had seen and even spoken to others. Her memory
quickly recounted the times her gift had allowed her a few moments with
those how had gone on. Mary Shipley, Ilse's mother, even her own dear mother and
father had blessed her life with their presence in the past. Suddenly she
became aware of a bright light, stronger than sunlight filtering across back
wall of the church. Did anyone else see it? No, they must not, they made not
even a reflex reaction to it. Even Uncle Malcolm, with his gift of second sight, said nothing as he stared at Judith. It was then Emily turned to see the door of the church openning. Two figures entered, both dress in the softest shade of yellow. One was a
small child, and the other a beautiful woman. She knew immediately who they
were. The child she had seen before, it was Uncle Malcolm's Wee Angel. The
woman clasped the child's hand so tenderly and looked at her so lovingly
that Emily knew exactly who she was, it was Megan Moore. She had seen her once in
a dream, but somehow this lady seemed younger and more beautiful. She stood
speechless as the two made their way almost effortlessly to the front of the
church to stand with the others.

The little girls went instantly to her father and took him by the hand the
way she had done the first time Emily saw her. Uncle Malcolm did not seem to
notice, but she did see him draw in his breath a bit as if startled by
something. Amazingly the woman went first to Isabel, smiling over the twins
as she passed them. Isabel's expression of happiness for her father did not
change, as the lady stood beside her. The woman dressed in yellow touched
Isabel's cheek, and smiled understandingly at her. She stood beside her for
a few moments, during which time Isabel felt something against her cheek. She
told herself it was only the breeze, and brushed her skin lightly with the
back of her hand. For some reason, she felt strangely at peace just then. It
was then that the little girls joined her mother at Isabel's side, and took
her older sister by the hand for a few moment. She looked up at her and
smiled, it seemed to Emily that Isabel almost smiled back, but she knew her
cousin could not see them. As the Reverend Johnson turned to Malcolm the woman
walked to his side, she first layed her hand lightly on Judith's shoulder for a moment, and then kissed Malcolm gently on the cheek. He did not seem to notice.

"Do you Malcom Murray take this woman Judith Josephine Smith Kinch to be you
lawful wedded wife, to have and to hold, and forsaking all others through
sickness and health, in good fortune and bad, until death parts you from her
side?" The reverend asked. Judith slightly bristled at the sound of her
middle name. It was from which her first husband Abner had gotten his
nickname for her, Josie. She never liked it. It was like being reborn to
use her given name again, and she was so grateful that Malcolm never thought
of calling her anything but Judith. He made her feel so important, like the
lady she had become.

Upon hearing this the woman in yellow turned and walked back toward the
door, the Wee Angel holding her skirt. "I do." Malcom answered. Then Megan turned
and blowing a kiss to her love, picked up her daughter and left the church
closing the door behind her. It seemd to Emily, however, that the light
stayed.

Judith glowed as it came her turn. "Do you take this man Malcolm Murray to
be your lawful wedded husband, to have and to hold, and forsaking all others
through sickness and health, in good fortune and bad, until death parts you
from her side?"

"I do." She smiled. At that moment the two of them seemd decades younger.

"Do you have the rings?" The Reverend asked.

Francis sifted quickly through his pocket and handed a shiny gold band to
his father-in-law. Perry did the same, and retrieved a tiny treasure for Joe's
bride. Both men placed the rings on the fingers of the women they loved.

"Then with the power invested in me, by the God and the province of Prince
Edward Island, Canada. I know pronounce you husbands and wives. You may kiss
you brides." The Reverend announced.

Everyone cheered at Malcolm took a beaming Judith in his arms, bent her over
and kissed her. The person who was most approving and jovial was Isabel. Joe
and Elizabeth were more solemn about their emotions. He took her softly in
his strong arms, and brought his lips to hers. Emily grinned as she watched
her once reserved aunt melt into the arms of her new husband.
_______________

The cold winter day seemed as warm as June when the family brought their buggies up to the front steps of New Moon. The ladies had already begun preparing a wedding feast for the two couples in the early hours of the morning, and it would be nearly ready. Joe was the first one two jumpr down from the buggy in which he road with his new bride, Elizabeth. Since this was the home they would now share together, he scooped her up in his arms and carried her up the porch steps. Everyone watched gleefully. Laura especially was thrilled by the change in her sister.

Joe stopped at the door. "Ready, Mrs. Samuels?" He asked Elizabeth.

"Ready." She smiled back. He openned the door and carried her over the threshold. Everyone cheered loudly as they followed the couple in.

Malcolm caught Judith by the arm."Your turn will come later me dear." He smiled.

Judith gave a confused grin, and asked. "What?"

"You will see." Was all the old man would answer. But his face gave a way the promise of a sly surprise in the offing. Judith could not wait to find out what her new husband had up his sleeve.

Inside, the dining room was already prepared for a celebration. Paper streamers had been hung from the ceiling, a large three tiered cake graced the center of the sideboard, and the table had already been set with the fine china and silver. The flowers Emily and Ilse had made were scattered about the room adding the final touch of granduer. The ladies, along with Emily and Ilse, quickly went to work bringing out a wonderful array from the kitchen, as the men congregated around the happy couples in the parlor.

Among the laughter and jokes Laura made her way back into the parlor for a few seconds and stood beside Allen, her arm around his shoulders . "Can I see you for a few moments?" She asked her husband.

"Of course, dear." Allen said standing. He was a bit concerned but the look on Laura's face showed no worry. She took him by the hand and led into the back hallway. There she turned wordlessly, took his hand and layed it softy across her expanding abdomin. It was then that he felt the tiny flutterings inside that she had revelled in all morning.

"Oh my darling." Allen said watching Laura's face with amazement. She smiled happily up at him.

"It started this morning." She said. "I couldn't wait to tell you." She could barely get the words out as he wrapped his arms around her and kissed her.

There joyful moment was interrupted by a call from the other room. "The Feast is Served." Isabel and Eve laughed exaggeratedly. Everyone followed the newly married couples into the dining room where they toasted them, and gave them blessings and wishes for good fortune. The celebration continued well into the early evening with singing, and laughing, and even a bit of dancing. The occasion was every bit as joyous as last summer's triple wedding had been.

Finally as the family was preparing to leave Malcolm made a special request of his new son. "Well, me lad," asked Malcolm, of his new step-son, Gussy Dan. "Since this
is your mother's and my Wedding Night, would ya' mind spending one more week
at your sister's and Jimmy's home?"

Gussy Dan, may be a 12 year old, but he wasn't exactly born yesterday,
replied--"N...n...no, Father, I don't mind stayin' at Eve's and Jimmy's for
one more week. Just as long as it's OK with Mum."

"Trust me, lad," replied Malcolm. "Your mother won't mind." And then to
his bride, he asked, "You won't mind, darlin', will you - if Gussy Dan stays
one more week with Eve and Jimmy?"

"Oh no, dear," Judith replied. "I won't mind. Just where are we going to
spend our first night together, anyway?"

"We won't be stayin' with Isabel and Francis, that's for sure," answered
Malcolm, cagingly. "That for me to know, and for you to find out tonight."

"But Father," Isabel questioned. "Where will you be staying?"

"Oh, not far away." Malcolm grinned afraid he would give away too much.

"Hmmm, already you're a Mr. Mysterious-So, are you," cooed Judith. "Where
ever we spend the night, atleast we'll be together, won't we??"

Laura also understood and quickly thought of Elizabeth and Joe. "Emily dear why don't you spend a few days with us? You can sleep in Ilse's room." She smiled coying at her sister.

"Oh, yes I'd love to." Emily grinned taking Ilse by the arm. They had so much to talk about.

"...And Perry how about you? Francis asked. "We have an extra room, and we would both just love it if you would stay with us for a while."

Perry was old enough to know exactly why his presence would not be required around New Moon for a few days, and was happy to oblige. "Well, I sure would like that. I s'pose I can be as much help around yer place as I can 'round here." He smiled at Joe, who clapsed him on the back.

"Now none of that Perry. You're family." Isabel assured him as she struggled to arrange the babies in her arms. "We want you as our guest, not a hired hand." She smiled as Francis relieved her of one of their tiny bundles.

Perry was truly and deeply touched and grateful. " I sure do appreciate that missus." He smiled as she patted his arm.

With that everyone made their way out to the porch to bid a temporary farewell to the new Mr. an Mrs. Murray. By this time; Emily, Ilse, and Perry had already put a 'JUST MARRIED' sign on the back of the new Murray's buggy, readying it for Judith and Malcolm to climb into to take off to parts unknown. Little did they suspect that he
would be taking his bride over the next hill between Blair Water, and
another little town called, Avonlea...to their brand new home. Once the
site of the shack she once shared with her late husband, and had her two
children with. The wonderful belated combination Christmas-Wedding Day
present, Malcolm has been itching to show his fiance...now bride, for
several months.
_________________________________

The sun was just falling below the horizon as Malcolm and Judith made their way over the hills between New Moon and their destination. The first stars of the evening were appearing and Judith sat in the buggy her head against Malcolm's shoulder, watching each heavenly eye twinkle at them.

"Quick, make a wish." She said, beginning to feel the activities of the day settling down on her.

"It has already come true my dear." The old man smiled.

"Alright. I'll make one for both of us." Judith laughed. She held her breath for a moment, imagining her thoughts lifting into Heaven. Then she relaxed and smiled. "There." She said.

"Well, surely you're gonna tell me what you wished for." He teased.

Judith not an amatuer at teasing herself simply said. "Yes, I wished you would tell me where you're taking me."

"You'll find out soon enough." He mused. "Now, just relax and enjoy the ride. She tried her best to do just that, but her curiosity was getting the better of her.

Suddenly they turned a bend in the road. The feel of the rocks and the smell of the air made Judith bolt upright. She knew this place, knew it well. This was the drive that led to little run down shack she had called home as Mrs. Kinch. Her heart froze and sunk at once. She never wanted to see this place again.

"No, I don't want to go here. Why? How could you?" She asked Malcolm shocked and hurt.

He tried to calm her, but her mind was racing. "Please, take me away from here." She begged, tears falling from her eyes.

Malcolm nearly froze himself. Had he made a horrible mistake. He should have told her something. How could he not have imagined what a shock it would be to her. He put his arms around her and did his best to quiet her fears. "I would never to anything to hurt you. Just come with me for a few moments, if you don't like it we can leave."

Judith did not want to go near that place, but knew that now she would be safe, so she hestitanly agreed. "Alright, I trust you. I know you wouldn't do anything to cause me pain."

"You're right. I hope what I've done will do just the opposite." He smiled comfortingly at her.

They drove on a few more yards. Judith kept her eyes on the floor of the buggy. She did not want to see the burned out shell of the house that was the scene of so much unhappiness. Suddenly the buggy came to a stop. "There, Look" Malcolm said.

Judith steeled herself, still unable to understand why Malcolm had brought her here. She raised her eyes and prepared for the flow of tears that would come upon seeing the place. However, there was none. In fact there was no run down little shack. In it's place stood an elegant, new home, every bit as nice as New Moon. It almost seemed to glow in the early evening light. It's two story clapboard facade had been painted the palest shade of yellow, and was graced with a wide deep porch. The white trim around the corners and windows accentuated the light gray shutters. Even a picket fence had been built around the yard, and she could see the corner of a brand new barn peering from behind the back of the house.

"Oh Malcolm," Judith smiled "What have you done?" This time there was laughter in her voice.

"Just a little something for my new bride." He laughed.

They walked slowly arm in arm to the porch. Judith looked up, it seemed to her like a castle. Just like the beautiful homes in the rest of Avonlea. The ones she always wished she could see but had never been invited to. As they reached the door, they laughed remembering Malcolm's promise of earlier in the day. He moved toward her, but she stopped him. He wasn't as young or as strong as Joe, and she did not want to think she expected anything. "It's alright, you'll hurt yourself."

"Horse feathers. The day Malcolm Murray cannot lift a wee maiden, is the day they will lay me in my grave." He bent over and easily picked Judith up into his arms.

"Ready?" He asked.

"Ready?" She laughed.

They walked effortlessly across the threshold into their new home. There would be no unhappy times here.