Breaking Up Is Hard To Do

by hctbdreamgirl

Would it be better, for Candy and Jeremy, if they weren't together?

BREAKING UP IS HARD TO DO

Jeremy Bolt sits down in the swing on the dormitory porch. He knows his girlfriend, Candy Pruitt is still at choir practice, but he is willing to wait for her until it is over. Of course, Candy doesn't know Jeremy is in town. He has been at the logging camp for the past few days working on a contract, and being that they are still several days away from being finished, Jeremy thought he would slip into town to see his girl. He can't stand going days without seeing Candy.

As Jeremy sits there next to an open window, he hears some of the brides talking about their beaus and courting. He wasn't intending to eavesdrop, but when he hears Candy's name mentioned, he listens more intently.

"Well I'm going to end things with Jack if he ever gets to come into town. I want to see other men. I for one don't want to be trapped in a relationship like Candy Pruitt. I don't know why Candy settled for Jeremy on that old mule boat. I mean, she could have any man in Seattle, but she took herself off the market before she even got here," one girl said.

"I think it's sweet how her and Jeremy seem to have fallen in love. I only wish he hadn't picked her before any of the rest of us had a chance with him," another replies.

"I hope her and Jeremy don't end up like poor Chips and LuAnn. They didn't test the waters any either and now they're already getting a divorce. Their marriage only lasted a couple of months. I think all of us that settled on one man before finding out who else is out there, well, I think we should all break up and try our luck with other men."

"You'll never get Candy to do that. Why she swears that her and Jeremy are soulmates."

"Don't get me wrong on what I'm going to say. I find Jeremy extremely handsome and he is one of the sweetest men here, and I wouldn't hurt him for the world, but do you think he's being fair to Candy?" a snobby sounding girl states.

"What do you mean?" some girl asks.

The snobby girl explains, "I understand he would fall for Candy and all since she was so willing to talk to him. I mean with his stutter, he probably thought he wouldn't even get one of us to talk to him. So he needed to latch on to her, before she had a chance to see the men here."

"Oh, I don't think it was like that. I heard Candy say that she loves his stutter."

"That may very well be, but thank heavens he finally stopped stuttering. Just think of her life if he still stuttered and they got married," says the snobby girl. "What an embarrassment he would be for her. And what if they have children? Why they might stutter too. That alone could end their marriage. Candy might blame Jeremy for their children stuttering."

"I don't think you're being fair to Jeremy. His stutter isn't that noticeable, only at times like when he gets excited. And I would love to wake up with him by my side for the rest of my life."

"Now Lacy, if I didn't know better, I would think you have a crush on Jeremy."

Lacy giggles, "I guess I do. That's all it will ever be because him and Candy are so wrapped up into each other."

"I don't know about that. I still say they need to break up so they can really find out if they're right for each other. Up to now they have been inseparable. She needs to see other men and Jeremy needs to see other women before they decide to marry. They could always find their way back to each other, but at least they will know they didn't just settle for the first person they met," says the snobby girl.

One girl pipes up and says, "Hey it's time for choir practice to end. We better talk about something else before Candy walks in on us and hears what we're talking about."

Jeremy jumps up and hurries back to camp before anyone sees him. He has a lot on his mind to think about, Candy Pruitt being number one.

After giving his and Candy's relationship a lot of thought, Jeremy decides to go to town the next evening and talk to Candy. When he arrives at the dormitory, the girls get excited thinking that their own beaus will be arriving shortly. Jeremy has to explain that the men won't be allowed to come to town for at least another day. The girls quietly go about their business disappointed.

Candy meets Jeremy at the foot of the stairs and greets him with a quick hug. "Hello, what a wonderful surprise. I wasn't expecting to see you this evening."

"Uh yeah, I needed to see you. Could we go for a walk?"

"Of course," she answers as she takes his arm and then slides her hand down to his hand. Noticing how nervous he seems, she squeezes his hand tighter.

They walk in silence until they reach their favorite spot. Jeremy doesn't want to have this talk at their spot, so he says, "Let's walk just a little farther."

"All right," Candy says. She wonders what he wants to talk to her about. With him being so nervous, she thinks that maybe he wants to propose. Now she is nervous and is about ready to start biting her nails when Jeremy stops.

"This will do. Would you like to sit down?" he motions to a big log in a clearing.

"All right. Would you please sit with me?" she asks.

He nods his head as they sit down. Jeremy wipes his sweaty hands on his corduroy trousers. Not knowing quite how to say what he wants to say he asks, "How are you Candy? Everything o-okay?"

Candy gives a nervous giggle, "I'm fine Jeremy. Especially now that you're finally here." She leans over and gives him a soft kiss on his cheek. "I've missed you. How are you?"

Jeremy answers, "I'm fine too." He gets up and paces in front of Candy.

"Jeremy, you don't seem fine. Are you going to tell me what has you so nervous?"

He stops pacing and wipes his hands on his trousers again. "Candy, how long have we known each other now? A little over a year, right?"

"Well there was the six months on the boat and we've been here in Seattle eight months, so I'd say one year, two months, two weeks and four days."

Jeremy couldn't help but chuckle. "What? You don't have it down to the hours and minutes?"

"I could if you really want to know the hours and minutes."

"No, you don't have to do that," he smiles slightly. "Candy, there's something I need to ask you?"

Candy's heart skips a beat. Here it comes! He's going to ask me to marry him, she thinks to herself. "All right. Jeremy, you can ask me anything."

Jeremy takes a deep breath and says, "I know ever since we met, that we have been together. We haven't seen anyone else. We haven't wanted to. At least I didn't want to. What about you Candy? Haven't there been times that you wish you could go out with one of the other men? Like Harve? I know he wants to court you."

Candy thinks, Where is he going with this? This is not your typical proposal. Oh well, Jeremy has always been one to do things his own way.

"Candy? Candy, did you hear me?"

Shaking her head to clear her thoughts she replies, "No Jeremy. I've never thought about other men. I've been happy being with you. I love spending time with you."

"Why? I mean, Candy you could have any man in Seattle that you wanted. Why would you want to stay with me? You deserve better. Sometimes I can't even talk right."

Candy is really confused now. "Hmm Jeremy, I've already found him, the only man I want to be with and as far as I'm concerned, he talks just fine."

"You know that isn't true. I can't talk right sometimes and you know it."

"Jeremy, what has gotten in to you? Why are you talking like this. You know I don't care if you stutter."

"B-b-but I care Candy. I'm an embarrassment to you. I'm sure of it. Don't deny it."

"Well I am going to deny it. I have never been embarrassed being with you."

This isn't as easy as Jeremy thought it would be. He had himself convinced that Candy would be relieved to hear him say they're through. He knows she cares deeply for him, but she can't really love someone like him. He has to end this no matter what she says.

Jeremy blurts out, "Candy, I think we should go our separate ways. I don't want to hurt you, but I think if we stay together, that's exactly what will happen."

Candy's eyes fill with tears while she bites at her lip. She gets up and stands in front of him. "How could you possibly hurt me any more than what you're hurting me right now?" Wringing her hands she asks, "Jeremy, have I done something to make you think I want this? Have I hurt you somehow?"

"No, you would never do anything to hurt me. You're too nice. It's just that, we don't want to wind up like Chips and LuAnn, now do we? They didn't see anyone else. They settled for each other and now look where that has taken them. Divorce court."

"Settled? You think that's what we did? You think we just settled for each other? Jeremy Bolt, I did not just settle for you. I chose you because I fell in love with you. It hurts to find out that you settled for me. If that's the way you feel, then maybe we should go our separate ways." She chews on her bottom lip with tears ready to spill over.

"Candy, I didn't mean. . ."

"No Jeremy. I know what you meant. But what I'd like to know, is who put these doubts in your head this time. I know it wasn't Lew. Who was it?"

"I-I-I don't know what you're talking about."

"Yes you do! You wouldn't come up with this all by yourself. Jeremy, we were happy. There was no reason for you to think of this. Someone talked to you." Candy wipes her tears away and takes a deep breath while looking up at the sky. Exhaling she continues. "I don't get it. You always seem to believe everyone else when they give you advice on love and marriage. But the one person you should listen to, you ignore. Me!"

"I'm sorry, I know it seems that way. But Candy, I think this is for the best. I have to set you free. You'll thank me someday."

Candy slowly shakes her head no. "I'll never thank you for breaking my heart. But fine, if this is the way you want it, then go. Go find someone that will love you more than I do. I'm not going to beg you to love me. I do have a little bit of pride left."

"Candy, I do love you and I believe you love me. I just want us to be sure of our love. If after we see other people, if we still love each other, then we'll find our way back together. I want you to give yourself a chance to find the man of your dreams, even if it's not me. I want you to be happy."

"Happy? How am I to be happy without you?"

He blinks the tears away and bites at his bottom lip. "I don't want to lose you completely. I'd like for us to stay fr-friends."

Candy looks at him like he just slapped her. Then she turns and runs back towards the dormitory leaving Jeremy alone with his broken heart.

When Sunday comes, Jeremy and Candy both, dread going to church. They haven't seen each other since the breakup and don't look forward to seeing each other today.

"Biddie, I won't be singing in the choir today. Will you tell everyone that I'm sorry, but I just can't do it. Not yet," Candy says sadly.

"Of course I will. But Candy, don't you think singing in the choir will help you forget about your worries."

Candy sighs, "Maybe. But I can't stand up there and every time I look out into the congregation I see Jeremy's face. I can't even think about what him watching me would be like. Oh, Biddie, will I ever get over this?"

"Why sure you will. Someday. It'll take a while. I know how much you care for Jeremy. And I really think he cares for you just as much. I just don't understand him doing something like this. I'd really like to give him a piece of my mind," Biddie rants.

"Don't you dare! I will just have to make myself get over him. Somehow. I can do this. Somehow. I use to be so strong. I didn't let myself get all hung up on anyone or anything. But that was before Jeremy," she laments. "Well let's go out and face the men. Maybe Jeremy won't come today." She holds up her crossed fingers for Biddie to see.

As they step out onto the porch, a display of men stands before them. Candy sees Jeremy standing in the back, not in the front like he usually is. Candy thinks she will slip off the side of the porch, hopefully unnoticed, and find her way to the church alone.

The men and women start pairing off and walk to the church. Before Candy can slip out, she hears a voice. "Miss Pruitt, may I walk you to church?"

She looks up and much to her surprise, Joshua Bolt is holding his hand out to her. She gives him a feeble smile and replies, "Thank you. I'd be delighted." She takes his hand and they slowly walk to the church. "Joshua, did Jeremy tell you to do this?"

"No, this is my own doing. I thought you may need a friend today."

"I do. You don't realize how much this little gesture helps. I'll be forever in your debt."

Joshua laughs. "Forget it. I'm glad I can help." They walk in silence for a few steps. "Candy, I don't know if you care, but Jeremy is in a lot of pain. He doesn't sleep much and eats very little. He hasn't been very productive at work either."

"I will always care about Jeremy's well being, but there's nothing I can do. I have the same problem."

"I don't know what went down between the two of you, he's not saying. But if you would reconsider your decision to break it off with him. . ."

Candy stops. "Me break it off with him! You think our breakup is my fault? Joshua, Jeremy broke up with me."

"What? But Jeremy. . .well, I'll be John Brown." They begin walking again. "Why? Everyone just assumed you were the one. I don't understand."

"I don't either. But this is all his doing. I don't want this." As they have reached the church, they stop at the steps. Candy gives Joshua a little peck on the cheek. "Thank you. I'll see you later."

"The pleasure was all mine." He turns to walk over to where Jason is standing talking to Aaron Stempel, then stops. "Candy, this may be awkward, but would you care to go on a picnic after church? I can get us a basket from Lottie's."

"I don't know Joshua. I mean, Jeremy. . .What am I saying? He obviously doesn't care what I do. Are you sure?"

"Look, Jeremy had his chance. He blew it. Not that I'm trying to take Jeremy's place or anything. We'll go just as friends. I just thought since we both have to eat, we could eat together. Might even be fun. And if you need to talk to someone about Jeremy, I'll be willing to listen."

Candy looks over towards the dormitory and sees Jeremy watching them. He starts heading for the church with a scowl on his face.

"Well, I don't care what Jeremy thinks," she says. "Joshua, I'd love to go on a picnic with you, but I'll fix us a basket. We always have food left over in the dormitory after everyone fixes their baskets.

Thank you friend."

"You're welcome friend." Candy goes inside as Jeremy reaches the steps.

Jeremy grabs Josh's arm. "What the hell, Josh? What are you doing?"

Josh smiles. "Nothing little brother. I'm just standing here."

"You know what I mean. What are you doing with Candy?" Jeremy's face is getting red.

"Oh, Candy. That's what you meant," Josh chuckles. "Well Jeremy, I walked her to church. I thought that was a friendly thing to do. I didn't want her to be embarrassed being left standing there all by herself, because my baby brother broke up with her."

"She told you that?"

"She sure did. But only because I said something about her breaking it off with you. She just corrected my mistake. Why didn't you tell us you were the one to end things?"

"I didn't want everyone to think that she had been dumped. I wanted it to look like she was in charge."

"Oh, so you were covering for her. I see. Why? Why did you end things with her?"

"I had my reasons." Jeremy hangs his head and sulks.

Jason walks up between them and puts his hands on their shoulders. "I don't know what's going on, but can't this wait until after church and after we get back home? I mean we don't need an audience for our disagreements."

"Fine!" Jeremy replies angrily.

"Fine by me," Josh answers. "But it'll have to wait till later this afternoon. I have a picnic to go to with a friend. Hope you don't mind Jeremy. Candy and I are eating lunch together. See you both later," Josh chuckles as he heads inside.

Jeremy is ready to explode, "Why you. . ." is all he gets out before Jason holds him back.

"Take it easy Jeremy. You know Josh is probably just being a friend to Candy right now. She looked awfully unhappy a while ago."

"B-b-but Jason! My own brother! How could she? How could he?"

"I know Jeremy, I know. Let's go in and we'll all talk later today."

As they walk up the steps, Jeremy says, "Fine! But I'm not sitting next to him!"

Jeremy is pacing the floor waiting for Josh to come home. Jason is sitting in his big leather chair trying to read one of his Shakespeare books. Jason sighs and lays his book aside. "Jeremy, do you want to talk about it?"

"What? No, Jason. All I want is for Josh to get here."

"Don't jump onto Josh until you hear his side. Fair enough?" Jason instructs.

Jeremy stops, places his hands on his hips, and glares at Jason. "Do you think it's. . ." the door opening interrupts his question.

Seeing Josh walk in, Jeremy bombards him with questions. "Well it's about time! Where have you been ? What took so long? Where's Candy?"

"Good to see you too little brother," Josh laughs. "Candy and I got to talking and lost track of the time. And I just walked her back to the dormitory. You know, I never really appreciated what a fine girl Candy is. She's a great cook, quite intelligent, and she's beautiful to look at. Why she'll make any man a wonderful wife. Tell me again, why you broke up with her."

"It's none of your business why! I want to know why you're being so nice to her! Before you hardly knew she existed," Jeremy rants.

Jason breaks in. "Jeremy, you were the reason for the breakup? You broke up with Candy? Why?"

Jeremy hangs his head. "I had my reasons." He fights back his tears. "Just because we broke up, doesn't mean you can court her!" He glares at Josh.

"I'm not courting her, Jeremy. We're just friends. She wants to be with you, not me."

"She said that?" Jeremy asks.

"Yes, she did. Jeremy, she is so lonely and miserable. She's like you, not eating or sleeping. Why don't you talk to her? Tell her the reason for the breakup."

"I told her the reason."

"You told her a reason, not the real reason. Breaking up because you stutter is a pretty lame excuse. Don't you think Jason?" Josh asks.

"That's why you broke up? Because you stutter. Jeremy, you hardly ever stutter anymore," Jason states.

"But when I do stutter, I-I-I don't want to be an embarrassment to Candy. I don't want people feeling sorry for her because she's stuck with me."

"Did she ever say or act like she was embarrassed to be with you?" Jason asks.

"Hmm, no. She's too nice. Look, I didn't give her a chance to see what the men in Seattle offered. She needs to go out with other men, men that can talk right. I don't want her to settle for the first man that spoke to her. I just want her to be happy."

Josh replies, "Jeremy, Candy was happy with you. She could care less about seeing anyone else. She had seen a few men when she was in New Bedford, so it isn't like you were the first man she ever went out with. She doesn't feel like she settled for you. She fell for you. She fell hard for you."

"Jeremy," Jason says. "Why all of a sudden do you want Candy to see other men? Did something happen? Did Candy give you the impression that she wants to see other men? Did someone say something?"

The expression on Jeremy's face let Jason know that he ask the correct question. Jeremy turns his back on Jason.

"Who Jeremy? Who said something to put these thoughts in your head? What happened?" Jason persists.

"I don't want to talk about it," Jeremy mumbles.

"Well I know it wasn't Candy," says Josh.

"And how do you know that?" Jeremy snaps.

"Because she's in the dark just as much as we are. Come on Jeremy. Let us in on what happened. Maybe we can help," Josh states.

Shaking his head Jeremy says, "There's nothing you can do. Don't you understand? It's me! I'm the problem. Me and my damn st-stutter. I can't ask Candy to spend the rest of her life with me. I would eventually embarrass her. And kids. If we ever had kids, they might stutter too. I won't do that to her or our kids. I don't want them growing up like I did." Sitting down at the table Jeremy lays his head on his folded arms and lets his tears out..

Jason and Josh sit down on both sides of Jeremy and place their hand on Jeremy's back. "Jeremy, I'm sorry that you had to grow up like you did. You were dealt a rough hand early in life. I did my best raising you. I wish I could have done more," Jason say sympathetically.

Sitting up and using his hands to wipe his eyes he replies, "Jason, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to imply that it was your fault in any way. I know you did your best for me. And you too Josh. You two are the best brothers I could ask for."

Josh pats him on the back. "Jeremy, you're very special to us. You always have been. We're here for you. All you have to do is let us help you."

Nodding his head and blinking more tears away Jeremy responds, "Thanks Josh, but there's really nothing that you can do. I have to come to terms with my breakup with Candy by myself. I feel that she will thank me for doing this someday. I love her so much."

"Jeremy who said something to you?" Jason asks.

"Does it really matter? They spoke the truth."

"Yes, Jeremy I think it does matter," Jason replies. "Whoever said it might not have had your best interest at heart. They may have had an ulterior motive."

"I don't think so Jason. They didn't even know I was around. I overheard them talking privately. I didn't mean to eavesdrop, but when I heard Candy's name mentioned, well I just couldn't help myself."

"I understand. It had to be either some loggers or some brides. Which was it?" asks Jason.

"I can't tell you because you might let it slip to Candy. I don't want to cause her any more problems. I mean she does have to live. . ."

"So it was the brides," Josh guesses.

"Yes, but promise me you won't say anything."

Josh and Jason look at each other, then replies, "We promise."

Jeremy tells them everything he overheard the brides say. When finished he asks, "Don't you see how everything they said is the truth? I can't stand in Candy's way any longer. She needs to find the perfect man that will love her and give her perfect kids, and not be a burden or an embarrassment. That man is not me."

"Oh Jeremy, I think you're being too harsh on yourself. Nobody's life is perfect. You're sacrificing too much to make sure Candy has a perfect life," Jason responds.

"Yeah Jeremy. Even if Candy does marry someone else, there's no guarantee that the man she marries will be perfect. He may drink too much, or eat too much, he may have a bad temper, or a gambling problem. Who knows what you're sending her into," Josh adds.

"That's a chance I'm willing to take. I have to do this for her and the children we'll never have." Rising from his chair he says, "I love her and I don't want to lose her, but I won't stand in her way of finding true happiness. If you'll excuse me I think I'll lay down. I want to be alone."

"Of course, Jeremy. See if you can get some rest," Jason answers.

As Jeremy goes into his room and shuts the door, Jason and Josh just look at each other and shake their heads.

Around midweek, Jeremy comes to the dormitory to talk to Candy. He hopes nobody has already told her the news. He feels like he should be the one to tell her.

Biddie opens the door, when Jeremy knocks. "Why hello there Jeremy. Who are you here to see?" she says rather coldly.

Nervously, Jeremy replies, "Candy. Is she here?"

"Yes she is. And might I say I'm so happy that you're here. I'll go get her," a happy Biddie answers as she takes off running up the stairs.

Jeremy waits outside on the porch with thoughts of how he is going to tell Candy the news. It doesn't take long before Candy appears. She sees him standing at the railing with a far off look on his face and her heart skips a beat. She takes a deep breath and exhales before saying, "Hello."

Jeremy turns towards her and answers, "Hi." There's an awkward pause. "I bet you're surprised to see me."

"Yes, I am. But I'm delighted that you came."

Jeremy bites his bottom lip. "You are? Uh Candy, can we go for a walk?"

"All right," she replies as all sorts of things run through her mind. Does he want to apologize and ask me to forgive him? Does he want me back?

Before they take a step off the porch, Lacy and another bride come out onto the porch on their way to Ben's. "Hi Jeremy," Lacy says cheerfully. She looks from Jeremy to Candy and back to Jeremy. "I'm just on my way over to the store. See you Saturday."

Jeremy slightly nods his head and doesn't say anything. As the girls walk off, Jeremy holds his hand out to Candy to help her from the porch, then squeezes it before releasing her hand immediately. They walk to their spot in silence. "Would you like to sit down?" he asks.

"I think I'll stand for a while, if that's all right with you."

"Sure, I'll stand too." He puts his hands on his hips and asks, "How are you?"

Candy shrugs, "I've been better. How are you?"

"Oh I've been better too. I guess you're wondering what I'm doing here? Before I get to that, I'd like to ask you something."

"All right. What do you want to ask me?"

"Have you been out with any of the men yet?"

Candy shakes her head and replies, "No, I haven't."

"Why?"

"Well to be honest, no one has asked me out. And even if they did, I would say no."

"I don't understand. Why aren't they asking you out? I think everybody knows that we're not together anymore."

"It's okay Jeremy. I don't care."

"But I care. I mean you're the nicest and most beautiful girl here. Why wouldn't they ask you out?"

"Well Corky told Biddie that the men were afraid to ask me out."

"Why?" he asks.

Candy sighs, "Because of you. You are their bossman. They don't want to ask their bossman's ex- girlfriend out, just in case there are still some feelings between us. But it's all right because I don't have any desire to go out with anyone."

"Oh good grief," he mutters. "What about the dance Saturday? You are going, aren't you?"

"I haven't even thought about it. But no, I won't be going."

"Why? Candy, you always loved to go to the dances."

"I know. But things have changed." She sits down on the large boulder. "Jeremy, do you know the real reason I loved going to dances?"

"Sure. Because you love to dance."

"That's not it. I mean I do love to dance, but that's not it. I loved going to the dances because of you. Because you would hold me in your arms. I could be close to you."

Jeremy blushes and hangs his head. "I loved that too."

"Did you really Jeremy? I thought you did, but it was so easy for you to breakup with me, that I wonder if I really meant anything at all to you." She wipes a few stray tears away with her hands.

"Candy, don't think that. It wasn't easy letting you go. Breaking up with you was the hardest thing I've ever done. You meant the world to me, you still do. I promise I. . ."

"Don't Jeremy! Don't promise me anything. You broke your promise to me. You promised me that we would be together always."

"I know and I'm sorry." He comes over and sits down beside her. "I hate myself for hurting you."

"I'll survive, unfortunately. So what is it you want to tell me?"

Jeremy begins to squirm around. "I wanted to tell you about this before you heard it from someone else."

"What? That you're taking Lacy to the dance?"

Jeremy looks startled. "How. .who. . You know? Candy who told you?"

"No one told me. I figured it out. Lacy was mighty friendly to you back there on the porch and she's planning on seeing you Saturday. Then you start talking about the dance on Saturday."

"I'm sorry."

"Don't be. Like I said, I'll survive." She stares at him and he begins to feel uneasy. "Jeremy, I'd like to ask you something now. It's about this embarrassment thing you gave me as a reason for us to break up. Why will you only embarrass me, but not Lacy? I just don't understand." She gets up and walks over to the water, turning so she can face Jeremy.

"I, uh, I care deeply about you Candy. I don't want to embarrass you. I'm not planning on falling in love with Lacy. I'm just taking her to the dance so I really don't care if I embarrass her or not."

"Oh. Um, I'm glad to see that you got your courage up to ask someone out. Was that hard to do or have you been planning this all along?"

Jeremy walks over and stands beside her, "It was not planned and I didn't. I didn't ask her to the dance. She asked me. I didn't want to go."

"Oh I see. If you didn't want to go, then why are you?"

"I told her no at first. Then she said if you saw me out having fun with someone else, that maybe you would go out with other men and have fun too."

"So you're doing this, going out with her I mean, to help me. Don't do me any favors," she snaps.

She turns to leave as she begins to cry.

Jeremy grabs her arm to prevent her from leaving. "Candy, please don't be mad and don't cry. I can't stand it when you cry."

"I'm not mad, Jeremy. Well maybe a little. What I am is hurt and disappointed. I really thought we had something special."

"We do, uh, did."

"I've got to go Jeremy. I hope you and Lacy have a wonderful time at the dance."

"Candy, please come to the dance."

"Why? Why does it matter to you if I'm there or not? I don't want to see you dance the night away with someone else in your arms. I'm not ready for that yet. I don't know if I'll ever be ready."

"I want you to come, so I can dance with you one more time."

Candy softens and puts her hand on his cheek. "Oh Jeremy."

"I mean we are friends, aren't we? And fr-friends can dance with each other."

Shaking her head she says, "You are unbelievable, Jeremy Bolt. I want you to get this in that thick skull of yours. I don't want to be just friends. I want to be your girlfriend. Your wife. And since you don't want me as either, then I think we should just forget that there was ever an us. I don't know you anymore. Goodbye!"

Once again, Jeremy is left alone with his broken heart.

Saturday comes and Jeremy dreadingly goes to the dormitory to pick up his date. He hopes Candy doesn't answer the door. He doesn't want to see the hurt in her eyes.

Lacy hurries out the door and greets Jeremy. "Hello Jeremy. I'm so happy to be going to the dance with you. Thank you for taking me." She is so excited, she's practically floating on air.

"Um, you're welcome. I guess we better go," Jeremy says as he shoves his hands in his pockets and walks off the porch.

Candy is standing at one of the dormer windows watching discreetly. When she sees Jeremy arrive, her heart flutters. He looks so handsome in his gray suit and his hair combed to the side, almost in his eyes. Seeing him put his hands in his pockets instead of taking Lacy's hand, she thinks that is not the Jeremy I know. He has always been so mannerly.

Jeremy opens the door for Lacy and then steps aside so she can go in first to Lottie's. On his way inside, he turns his head towards the dormitory and catches a glimpse of Candy standing at one of the dormer windows. Their eyes make a connection, neither of them being able to look away as Jeremy stops, turns and stands facing Candy. He slightly smiles at her when Lacy comes back outside. She sees them looking at each other, so she takes Jeremy's arm. Jeremy glances over at Lacy and quickly looks back at Candy, but she is walking away from the window. He frowns as his heart sinks. Going inside he thinks to himself, Let's get tonight over with.

The next day being Sunday,Candy decides she will rejoin the choir. She leaves early for church in case Jeremy is standing outside the dormitory waiting for she finds her seat up front where the choir sits, Reverend Adams and a new minister appears.

"Aah, Miss Pruitt," Reverend Adams says. "So glad to see you back in the choir. I hope you're feeling better." He looks at her with his all knowing look and pats her on the shoulder.

"Well, I'm getting there, slowly but surely. I guess it'll take me a while longer to be completely over it." She knows what he was referring to.

"Yes, well if there is anything I can do to help you along, please feel free to call on me."

"Thank you. I will," Candy replies.

"Oh where are my manners," says Reverend Adams. "Miss Pruitt, this is Reverend Young. Reverend Young, Miss Pruitt. Reverend Young is going to be with us for a month or so."

"Nice to meet you Miss Pruitt," Reverend Young says.

"Nice meeting you too, Reverend Young," Candy replies.

Reverend Adams suggests, "Since Reverend Young is new in town, why don't you take him on a picnic after services, Miss Pruitt. Show him around the town. Help him to get acquainted with Seattle."

Candy could wring the good Reverend's neck. She doesn't want to go on a picnic, but how can she refuse. "All right, I guess I can do that. That is if Reverend Young would like to go." She hopes he declines.

"That sounds like a splendid idea. I don't want to put you out any though. You may have other plans," Reverend Young responds.

Candy forces a smile. "No, I don't have any plans. I'd be happy to show you around."

"Great! I'll meet you outside after church," Reverend Young remarks.

Candy smiles as she gently nods her head.

"Fine," Reverend Adams says. "Come along Michael. There's someone I'd like you to meet."

They walk off to greet Lottie.

Candy plops herself down in her chair angrily. Biddie sits down beside her. "Well, what has you in such a foul mood, like I couldn't guess. What has Jeremy done now?"

"Oh Biddie, it's not Jeremy this time. Reverend Adams just set me up on a picnic with the new Reverend." She discreetly points over to him. "I don't want to go."

"What's wrong with you Candy Pruitt? Why he is ever so handsome," giggles Biddie.

"I guess he is, but he's not as handsome as Jeremy. Oh, I need to stop comparing everyone to Jeremy, because nobody can compare to him," Candy sighs. About that time Candy sees Jeremy walk in behind Lacy. She goes to sit with her friends and Jeremy sits down beside his brothers.

Seeing Reverend Young Jeremy asks, "Who's that?"

Josh shrugs his shoulders. "I don't know, but him and Candy were talking when I got here."

"Oh really," Jeremy mumbles.

When services begin, Reverend Adams introduces Reverend Young to the congregation telling them that the new Reverend will be taking over for a month or so while he goes to visit his family in St. Louis. The brides are all excited knowing there is a new single man in town.

After services, the two Reverends stand outside the door to greet people. Jeremy is in line behind some of the brides. A bride named June, introduces herself to Reverend Young. "Reverend Young, I would be more than happy to show you around Seattle. We could take a picnic lunch up to the lake."

"That is very nice of you, June, but I'm afraid I have already made plans to spend the afternoon with Miss Pruitt. Maybe another time."

Jeremy doesn't hear anymore. He starts coughing and hurries down the steps to get himself under control. Lacy rushes up to him. "Are you all right, Jeremy?"

"Yes, I'm fine." He clears his throat as he watches Candy and Reverend Young walk to the dormitory.

"Miss Pruitt, since we're going to spend the afternoon together, do you think we could be on a first name basis?" Reverend Young asks. "I'm Michael."

"All right Michael. I'm Candy. Why don't you go change from your robe into something more casual while I pack us a picnic lunch."

"All right. I'll be back as quickly as I can." He leaves for the church while Candy goes inside the dormitory.

Lacy asks, "Jeremy would you like to go on a picnic with me?"

"Not today Lacy. Maybe another time." Jeremy walks sulking back to the Bolt cabin.

As the month goes by, Candy and Reverend Young have spent almost the whole month seeing each other. Everyone in Seattle think of them as a couple now. Not so much for Jeremy and Lacy. Lacy tries to convince everyone that they are a couple too, but people know just by looking at Jeremy that they are not a couple like she wants them to be.

Candy and Michael have gone on a picnic after church and then decide to take a walk along the water so they can be alone and talk without half of Seattle hearing them. Stopping at a nice clearing, Michael stops and faces Candy. "You know Candy, I'll be leaving in another week or so."

"Yes, I realize that. I've really enjoyed spending time with you, getting to know all about the mysterious Reverend Michael Young," she giggles.

"I'm mysterious?"

"Well, in a way. Or you were before I got to know you. So, what are your plans when you get back to Milwaukee?"

"I guess I'll resume my position at the orphanage. There are so many children there that need my attention. What will you be doing?"

"Oh, not much I guess. There's not much going on in Seattle as you are well aware."

"Candy, come with me. Come with me to Milwaukee," Michael says as he takes her hands in his.

"What?" Candy is startled. "I can't do that."

"Why not? You just said you had nothing to keep you here."

Candy laughs. "How would that look for me to go off with you to Milwaukee. Two young single people traveling together. I can just hear the gossip now. Plus, if I leave, then the Bolt brothers lose their mountain. I just can't do that to them."

"Then marry me," he says excitedly.

Candy's mouth drops open and her eyes almost pop out of her head. "Michael, I wasn't hinting for you to propose."

"I know. So what do you say? Will you marry me?"

"Michael, I do care for you a great deal. I mean you have been a wonderful friend and you've helped me get through a difficult time in my life. But we don't love each other."

"Speak for yourself Miss Pruitt. I have fallen in love with you. I would be honored if you would accept my proposal and become my wife."

"Oh my. I don't know what to say. You know I love Jeremy. I can't marry you as long as I still love him."

"Jeremy Bolt is a fool. I'm sorry, I know that I shouldn't speak like that about another person, but I feel strongly about this. He has the most beautiful, caring, generous woman in Seattle loving him, and he doesn't appreciate what she can give him. Forget about him, Candy. I know right now you think you love him, but after we're married for awhile maybe you can learn to love me instead. I promise to be patient and not force you to do anything that you're not ready for."

"Michael, I. . ."

"No, don't give me your answer yet. Think about it. Think long and hard. Think of the kind of life you will have if you stay here. I can offer you so much, Candy. Please, promise that you'll think about it and let me know before next Sunday. If your answer is yes, I'd like to announce our engagement as I say my goodbyes to the congregation after Sunday services."

Candy's heart begins to beat faster. She thinks of how that would make Jeremy feel, to hear about her engagement and her leaving Seattle. Would he even care? "I'll think about it Michael. I need to get back. There's so much I have to think about."

He leans in and kisses her on the cheek. "I'll be waiting for your answer." Michael takes Candy's hand and tucks it in the fold of his arm. Together they walk quietly back to Seattle.

After a couple of soul searching days and sleepless nights pass, Candy is no closer to an answer. It's mighty tempting, she thinks. To leave Seattle where I wouldn't have to see Jeremy and Lacy together anymore. I don't know if I could love Michael. What if I never fall in love with him? Can I live in a loveless marriage? He says he loves me now, but if I never become his wife like I should, how long would it take before he gets tired of waiting? And children. I've always wanted a houseful of children. Jeremy and I use to talk about having children someday. I guess the children at the orphanage could become my children. Oh, there's so much I'm not sure of.

Candy goes to the Bolt cabin and knocks on the door. Jeremy opens the door and is surprised to see Candy. "Candy, is something wrong?"

"Jeremy, I'm sorry. I thought you would be up at the camp. Lacy said you were going to stay up there for a few nights."

"Hmm, I did let her believe that." He opens the door wider. "Come in. Can I help you with something?"

Stepping into the room she answers, "No, I just need to talk to Jason. Is he here?" she says as her eyes scan the room.

"He'll be back shortly. Would you like to sit and wait for him?"

Nervously, she says, "All right." She sits down as he sits in the chair next to her.

There is an awkward silence. "How are you?" they both ask at the same time. They laugh uneasily.

"So how are you and Reverend Young getting alone. He'll be leaving soon, won't he?" Jeremy asks.

"Uh, yes soon." Not wanting to discuss Michael with Jeremy, she quickly changes the subject. "How are you and Lacy? She says you're very happy together."

Jeremy begins to squirm in his chair. "She does? Uh, well, uh, can we talk about something else?"

"Maybe I should go. I can talk to Jason another time," she begins to rise from her chair.

"Candy, can we not even be in the same room together? I promise I won't bite," he chuckles as he places his hand on her arm to stop her from leaving. "Please stay."

Candy looks into his beautiful blue eyes and slowly sits back down. "All right."

Jeremy says, "You never did tell me how you are. Everything okay?"

Candy gives a little sigh. "I'm all right."

"That's good. You look beautiful, by the way," he blushes.

"Thank you. How are you?" she asks.

"Oh, I'm all right too."

"You look handsome as ever, by the way," she laughs lightly. After some hand wringing, she asks, "Jeremy, are you happy with the way things are? "

Before Jeremy can answer, the door opens and Jason and Josh step inside. They are pleasantly surprised to find Jeremy and Candy sitting at the table together.

"Miss Pruitt, nice to see you. Does this mean what I hope it means?" Jason asks as he waves his hand at the two of them.

Candy jumps up. "Jason it only means that I need to talk to you about something important. Alone, if you don't mind."

"All right Candy. Uh brothers, make yourselves scarce for a while." He holds the door open for them to leave.

Jeremy gets up and touches Candy's arm. "It was good talking to you Candy."

Candy gives him a quivery smile. "You too." She watches him leave before she lets a tear fall.

"All right Candy. What can I do for you?" Jason asks.

Candy clears her throat and raises her head high. "Jason, I need your help."

"With what? Are you in trouble? Are you sick?"

"No, nothing like that." She takes a deep breath and exhales. "Jason, Michael, uh Reverend Young asked me to marry him and move to Milwaukee."

"I see. And your answer is?"

"I haven't given him one."

"Candy, do you love him? Does he love you?"

"He says he loves me."

"And you?" Jason asks.

Candy shakes her head. "No, I don't love him. He says that in time, I may fall in love with him."

"And what do you think? Do you think that you will fall in love with him?"

"I don't know. I just know I don't love him now. But what would I do if I don't ever fall in love with him? He is a good man and he promised me that he would not make any demands from me until I'm ready to be his wife. Oh Jason, I can't stand the thought of another man besides Jeremy, touching me like that." She sits down and cries.

"You just answered my next question. Which was, do you still love Jeremy?"

Nodding her head she continues to cry. "I love Jeremy. I'll always love him."

"I'm sorry Candy."

"Me too." She takes a handkerchief out of her pocket and dabs at her eyes. "Maybe I should marry Michael and move to Milwaukee. Maybe it would help me get over Jeremy. It hurts so much seeing him and Lacy together. She makes a point of telling everyone how happy they are when I'm in her presence. It didn't take him long to find someone new."

"I wouldn't believe everything you hear about that relationship, if I were you. So, what are you going to do?"

"I'm not sure. The only thing I do know is I'm leaving Seattle. If not Milwaukee, then New Bedford."

"Why? Why go back to New Bedford?"

"There's nothing for me here. I mean I do have my closest friends here, but I can't stay here and see Jeremy everyday. Watch some other woman live the life I was to live with him. None of the men here want anything to do with me. Which is fine, because I don't want to spend time with any of them either. I'll just go home and get my old job back."

"Candy, have you told Jeremy that you still love him?"

"No, I do have a little bit of pride left. Not much, but a little. I'm not going to grovel."

"I understand Candy. What do you need me to do?"

"If I decide not to marry Michael, and I go home to New Bedford instead, would you please make the necessary arrangements for me. I'll either be leaving with Michael on Tuesday, or I'll have to wait until our one year is up. I won't leave early and cause you, Joshua, and Jeremy to lose your mountain."

"Well thank you for that. Tuesday? That doesn't give you much time to decide, does it?"

"Michael wants to announce our engagement to the congregation on Sunday. If I say yes, that is."

Jason looks startled. "Oh Candy, you are going to tell Jeremy first, aren't you? You can't surprise him with this news in front of the whole church."

"Jason, I don't think Jeremy will even care. He'll probably be so glad that I'm leaving that he'll offer to help me pack."

"You don't believe that do you Candy?"

She shrugs her shoulders. "Do you really think I should tell Jeremy?"

"Yes I do. I know he still cares for you. I don't want him to be hurt."

Candy raises her voice. "Hurt? You don't want me to hurt Jeremy? What about me? Jason, Jeremy has hurt me more than I ever thought was possible. I know he is your little brother and you want to protect him, but he has to take responsibility for his actions sometime." She jumps up from her chair and heads for the door.

"I'm sorry Candy. I do love my brother and only want the best for him. But at the same time, I also love you and want you to be happy." He puts his arm around her shoulder. "Think about it please. If the positions were reversed and Jeremy was the one getting married, wouldn't you want him to tell you privately instead of hearing it for the first time in front of a lot of people?"

"I'll think about it. Thank you Jason for listening and for helping me leave for New Bedford if that winds up being my choice."

"You're welcome Candy. Either way, Seattle is going to miss you. I do hope you change your mind about leaving."

Candy raises to her tiptoes and gives Jason a kiss on the cheek. She walks out the door having more to think about now than she did before she walked in the door.

For the next couple of days, Candy thinks about telling Jeremy like Jason said. She finally decides that if Jeremy was going to marry or leave Seattle, that she hopes he would come to tell her personally.

Jeremy is home alone. He can't understand why Jason told him to stay home to receive a visitor. Who would be coming to see him? Whoever it is, he wishes they would hurry up and reveal themselves. He needs to get up to the camp. They have a big order they need to get filled.

When Jeremy hears the knock, he mutters, "Finally!" and opens the door. Surprised to see Candy standing there he says, "Hi, Candy. Jason's not here."

"I know. May I come in?" she asks.

"Sure come on in." He holds the door open wider for her. "Jason and Josh left for the camp already. For some reason, they told me to stay here to. . ." It dawns on Jeremy that Candy is the person he was to wait for. "Candy, you? You're the one? Why are you here?"

"I need to talk to you. Is that a problem?"

"No. I hope you know you can always come to me if you need to talk."

Candy stands and wrings her hands. "Jeremy, I don't know if you'll even care, but Jason thought I should tell you personally. Ooh, this is harder than I thought it would be."

Jeremy takes her hand and squeezes it. "Candy, what's wrong? You can tell me anything."

She takes a deep breath. "As you know, I have been seeing Michael, uh Reverend Young for quite a while now."

"Yes I do know that. One month, one week, and five days to be exact. Not that I'm counting or anything." He blushes. "I hope he's being good to you."

Candy laughs shyly. "Yes he is. Well, he's leaving Tuesday to go back to his home in Milwaukee."

"His time's finally up?" Jeremy mumbles.

Candy closes her eyes for a few seconds trying to compose her words. "Jeremy, Michael wants me to go with him to Milwaukee. He. . ."

"What? Candy you can't do that! You haven't been here a year yet! We'll lose our mountain!" Jeremy says in a raised voice.

Tears spring to Candy's eyes. "Is that honestly the first thing you thought of? Your mountain? You didn't think of maybe saying, Candy don't go. I'll miss you."

Jeremy shakes his head to clear his mind. "Of course I'll miss you. That goes without saying."

"Maybe you should have said it because now I know what's most important to you." She heads for the door. "I knew it was a mistake coming here. You don't really care. Sorry to have bothered you, Mr. Bolt!"

Jeremy grabs her by her arm to stop her. "Candy, I'm sorry. Yes our mountain is important, but not as much as you are. Will you stay and let's talk this out calmly? Please forgive me for my stupid remarks."

Candy sighs. "I'm sorry too. I know your mountain means everything to you and your brothers. I guess I was hoping that you would care. . .oh never mind."

"Candy, I do care. I care about you. I care what happens to you. Will you tell me the rest? I can't believe a man of the cloth would ask you to just up and go to Milwaukee with him. What is he thinking?"

Candy bites her lower lip. "Jeremy, Michael didn't just ask me to go to Milwaukee with him. He asked me to marry him first."

Jeremy stands there in shock. He doesn't know what to say. He has all these thoughts running through his mind. He walks over to the window and looks out, not seeing anything. Finally, he turns to Candy and asks, "Marry? He wants to marry you and move you away from Seattle? "

"Yes he does," she answers as she cries silently.

"B-b-but you've only known him for a little over a month. What happened to you believing in a long courtship?"

Candy just stands there crying.

"What was your answer? What did you tell him?" Jeremy asks in almost a whisper.

"I haven't given him a final answer yet."

"How are you going to answer? Are you going to say yes?"

"I don't know what to say."

"You don't know? Do you love him?"

Tears fall freely from her eyes. Shaking her head she answers, "No."

"No? But he does make you happy right?"

"He's a good man and he has helped me regain some of my dignity. I don't feel as worthless now. But no he doesn't make me happy like I once was."

"Worthless? Candy, you aren't worthless. You are worth so much." He pauses for a couple of seconds. "D-did I make you feel worthless?"

Candy turns her back to him and sobs into her hands.

Jeremy stands behind her and puts his hands on her shoulders. "Candy, answer me. Did I make you feel worthless? "

"Yes," Candy replies. "Yes I felt ashamed and worthless."

"Why? I'm sorry. I didn't mean to make you feel that way."

"I know you didn't, but that's the way I felt. Jeremy, I had a good life back in New Bedford, but there was something missing. Love. I wanted to be in love, marry, and raise a family with the love of my life. I knew it was a long shot, but I thought well why not give Seattle a try. And I did find that love I was looking for. I found it in a young, shy, sensitive boy that stuttered. He made me feel so loved and cared for. I was on top of the world. Then my world fell apart when he rejected me. I couldn't believe it. Me! The one person that accepted him with all his flaws without hesitation, and he rejects me. I felt like everyone was laughing at me for being so gullible. That Miss Candy Pruitt could possibly believe that she deserved happiness. I lost everything, Jeremy. I lost my life, my happiness, and my love. I have nothing left here."

"Candy, I'm so sorry. I didn't reject you. I could never do that."

"To me, it was a rejection. Michael helped me see that I am worth something after all. Someone can love me. I owe him."

"You may owe him your gratitude, but to marry him? No Candy, you don't owe him that. Not if there is no love involved."

"But he says he loves me. I need to be loved."

Jeremy pulls her closer to him and rests his head on hers. "And you are loved, Candy. Everyone here in Seattle loves you."

"That's not the kind of love I need. I want the kind of love that we had at one time. Oh I know I'll never find that kind of love again, it was a once in a lifetime kind of love. But I can at least try. Maybe some day I will fall in love with Michael."

"Sounds like you're trying to convince yourself to accept his proposal," he says as he sits down at the table and holds his head in his hands. Tears sting his eyes. "I'm sorry Candy. For treating you like I did. I thought I was helping you. I wanted you to have the perfect husband with perfect children. The perfect life."

"I know Jeremy. I really thought my life was perfect with you. I don't know what happened. Why you started having doubts about us again. Can you tell me, please?" She sits down in the chair next to him. "Did someone talk to you again?"

Jeremy folds his hands on the table and shakes his head. "I might as well tell you since you're leaving anyways. No one talked to me, but I did hear some people talking about us. It made sense at the time."

"Who? Who did you hear talking about us?"

"It doesn't matter who it was. It's more about what they said."

"Well, what did they say?" she asks.

"They said I wasn't being fair to you to keep you all to myself. That you should have had the opportunity to meet some of the men here. And I should have given some of the brides my attention. They said they understood why I grabbed on to you, because of my stuttering and all, but you deserved better than me. You settled for me. Candy, I don't want you to settle. I want you to have everything you've ever wanted."

"Oh Jeremy," Candy says with tears rolling down her cheeks. She places her hands on top of his. "I didn't settle. I fell in love with you. You. You stole my heart."

He glances up at her as tears mist his eyes. "Candy, you stole mine too."

She smiles at him. "I'm glad. I wouldn't have missed getting to know and love you for anything in this world. Did they say anything else? Like something about embarrassment?"

He moves his hands so their fingers are intertwined. "Well they did say it was a good thing that I stopped stuttering because they were sure it was an embarrassment for you. That you wouldn't admit it though. And if we married and had children. That our children might stutter too. Then you would hold it against me. You'd blame me and grow to hate me. Candy, I couldn't risk it. I would never want you or my children to be ashamed of me and blame me for their stuttering. I don't want my children to live the life I did. With people taunting them or feeling sorry for them."

"I'm sorry for the way you grew up Jeremy. I can't imagine anyone being so cruel to a child. If they would have just taken the time to get to know you, they would have found out that there is a remarkable young man in there with a heart of gold."

Jeremy lifts her hand to his lips and kisses her fingertips. "Candy, I'm sorry. Can you. . ." Before they can say anything else, there is a knock at the door. Jeremy and Candy both stand up wiping the tears away from their eyes.

Jeremy opens the door. "Oh good! I'm glad I caught you before you left for camp. I packed you a lunch of some of your favorites. Now you won't have to eat those old beans again. Here, I'll just set it on the. . .table," Lacy says as she barges in without being invited. Seeing Candy with red eyes, she turns towards Jeremy and notices his eyes are red too.

"Hello Candy. What are you doing here?" Lacy asks cautiously. She looks at Jeremy and asks, "Jeremy, what, uh,what's going on?"

"Nothings going on. Jeremy and I were just talking. As a matter of fact, I was just getting ready to leave," Candy states.

As she walks by Jeremy, he stops her by taking her arm. "Candy, I'm sorry. Will I see you again before you leave?"

"I don't know. I've gotta go." She hurries from the cabin as her tears start again.

When Sunday morning arrives, Jeremy and his brothers are getting ready for church.

"Jeremy, you better get a move on. You're going to be late for church," Jason states.

"I-I've been thinking about not going to church today," Jeremy replies sheepishly.

Josh says, "Not go? Jeremy don't you want to hear if there is an announcement about Candy and Reverend Young?"

Shaking his head Jeremy shouts, "No, that is the last thing I want to hear. I can't believe she would marry him and leave Seattle. She doesn't love him."

"Now Jeremy, calm down," Jason tries to reason. "This is what you wanted, remember? You wanted Candy to find a nice man that would love her and be good to her. Well, she did."

"You're right. This is all my fault. I drove her into his arms. Why? Why did I listen to those brides?"

"Maybe for the same reason you listened to Lew," Josh answers. "You're just not ready to get married yet. You have too many doubts."

"B-b-but I love her, Josh. I can't just let her go to Milwaukee. I can't let her leave Seattle," Jeremy says as his eyes fill with tears.

"Don't you mean, you can't let Candy leave you?" Josh asks.

Jason puts his hand on Jeremy's shoulder. "Jeremy, why don't you go right now to the dormitory and talk to Candy. Tell her you love her and don't want her to leave. You two need to talk before there is an announcement."

Jeremy rushes from the cabin and goes to the dormitory. Biddie, Mary Ellen, and Peggy are already on the porch waiting for their escorts. Jeremy takes Biddie's arm and leads her to the side of the porch out of hearing range.

"Jeremy Bolt, what is wrong with you?" Biddie demands.

"Sorry Biddie, but I need to see Candy. Would you go get her for me?"

"Candy's already gone to the church."

"Biddie, do you know what she's planning on doing?" he looks at her pleadingly.

"No, I don't. I don't even know if she knows what she's going to do. Jeremy, I tried talking to her. I don't want to lose my best friend," Biddie says as tears fill her eyes.

"I know Biddie. I know. I don't want to lose her either. Thanks Biddie. Gotta go!" Jeremy says as he runs to the church.

Entering the church, Jeremy sees Candy talking to Reverend Young. He swiftly walks up to her and says, "Sorry for the interruption, but Candy may I talk to you for a moment, please? In private?"

"Jeremy, church is about to begin. Can't this wait?" Candy states.

"I wish it could Candy, but no it can't. I really need to talk to you."

Reverend Young speaks up. "Mr. Bolt, uh, Jeremy, I think Miss Pruitt would prefer not to begin a conversation with you, so close to time for services to begin. Isn't that right, Candy?"

"Well, I, I don't know. Jeremy, what is this about?" Candy replies.

"I don't want to get into this with an audience. Could we step into the other room, please?" Jeremy asks.

The doors open and the parishioners step inside and begin to find their seats.

"I'm afraid it's too late," Reverend Young says. "Candy, you need to take your seat in the choir and Mr. Bolt you need to go find your seat."

Jeremy grabs Candy's arm. "Candy, please don't do anything until we talk."

Reverend Young takes Candy's other arm and leads her to the choir. She turns her head to look at Jeremy and sees he's almost in a panic. She gives him a brief smile. He tries to smile back.

As he turns to go to his seat, he runs into Lacy. "Jeremy, why didn't you wait to walk with me to church? Some of the girls said you were at the dormitory. I'll forgive you this time. Do you want to go on a picnic after church? I made your favorite, fried chicken."

Jeremy is so shaken, he is barely listening to Lacy. "Uh, what? Uh, I can't. Sorry." He stumbles to his seat beside his brothers.

All during service, Jeremy can't take his eyes off of Candy. She keeps glancing over at him in return. Their eyes make a connection and he mouths, "I love you." She quickly turns her head.

As the service comes to a close, Reverend Young begins his farewell speech. "It seems that my time here in Seattle has come to an end. I'll be leaving on the ten o'clock stage Tuesday. I have enjoyed getting to know the good citizens of Seattle. I have been blessed." He turns his head and looks at Candy. "I always thought I would go through life alone and I was all right with that. I realize I just hadn't met the right girl, until now." He holds his hand out to Candy. Candy looks at his hand, then looks at Jeremy. She sees him shaking his head in fear.

"Miss Pruitt," Reverend Young says while he still holds his hand out. She looks up at him.

As she begins to rise, she looks at Jeremy and sees that he is now standing, still shaking his head. "Don't," he says in a low voice. "Don't do it," he says just a little louder.

Jason jerks on Jeremy's arm and tries to pull him back into his seat. "Jeremy, sit down!" he says.

Jeremy tugs his arm out of Jason's grasp and moves to the side aisle still staring at Candy. She nervously whispers to Reverend Young, "Michael, don't. I can't do this. I'm sorry."

Reverend Young tucks her hand into the fold of his arm. "I understand Candy. I'm disappointed, but I do understand. No announcement will be made, but I do need to say something to them, all right?"

Candy nods her head and whispers, "All right."

Reverend Young looks at the congregation and then stares at Jeremy. "I asked the lovely Miss Pruitt to marry me and move to Milwaukee. She didn't say yes, but she didn't say no either. So there is still hope she will leave with me on Tuesday. If not, my proposal still stands. After her year of having to stay in Seattle is over, I hope she will come to Milwaukee to become my bride. Now, I'd just like to say 'Goodbye to everyone here and Peace be with you'."

Candy says, "Thank you, Michael." She then hurries to Lottie's side and asks to speak with her. They leave out the backdoor.

Jeremy sits down and holds his face in his hands. "She didn't do it," he whispers as everyone around him begins to leave the church. He grins, "She didn't do it."

Jason lays his hand on Jeremy's shoulder "Let's go home, Jeremy."

Jeremy looks up at Jason. "She didn't do it, Jason. She didn't do it."

"I know Jeremy." He starts to say more when Lacy walks up. "Uh, we'll see you at home, Jeremy." Jason and Josh leave.

Jeremy looks up at Lacy and sees the hurt and tears.

"Would you tell me what that was all about, Jeremy?" Lacy asks.

"I'm sorry Lacy. I. . ." he begins.

"You're sorry! Jeremy Bolt, I have never been so humiliated in my life! How could you do this to me?"

"Look Lacy. I told you from the very beginning that I still loved Candy and I wasn't wanting to get into another relationship. I never led you on. I was honest with you. Wasn't I?"

Nodding her head, she answers, "Yes, you were. I'm sorry Jeremy. I was just hoping that you were beginning to feel something more than friendship for me." Tears roll down her cheeks.

Jeremy rises and takes his handkerchief from his pocket and starts to wipe her tears away. He remembers what him and Candy went through by Ward Kimberly doing the same thing to Candy. He hands her his handkerchief instead. "May I walk you home, Lacy?"

"I'd like that. Thanks Jeremy. I hope we are still friends," she says.

"Always." Jeremy takes her by the elbow and ushers her to the door. Seeing that Reverend Young is occupied talking to a group of parishioners, Jeremy thankfully slips by him, walks Lacy to the dormitory, and then walks slowly to the cabin.

Candy stays to herself at Lottie's the rest of the day and most of the following day. Jeremy comes to see her, but is turned away at the bottom of the stairs by Lottie.

"I'm sorry Jeremy," Lottie says as she blocks the stairs with her body, "Candy doesn't want to see anyone. You and Reverend Young have that poor girl so confused she doesn't even know what day it is. Give her some time to sort things out."

"But Lottie, time is something we're running out of. I have to talk to her before she makes a decision." Jeremy grabs a pencil and paper from behind the bar and scribbles a note down. Handing the paper to Lottie he says, "Lottie, please give this to Candy. Tell her I'll be waiting."

Lottie takes the note as Jeremy leaves the saloon. She hurries to Candy's room and finds her standing at the window watching Jeremy walk home. "He really wants to talk to you, Candy. He gave me this note to give you."

Candy grabs the note and reads, Candy, we need to talk. I'll be at our spot at seven. Please meet me there. No pressure. Just to talk. Jeremy "Oh Lottie! Should I go? He wants to meet at seven."

"Honey, that's a decision you have to make on your own. But don't you think you should meet with both Jeremy and Reverend Young before you decide anything?"

"I know I should, but I'm too much of a coward. I don't want to hurt either one of them," Candy sighs.

"I know, but like Jeremy just told me, Time is something you're running out of."

"Well I do have to make a decision by ten tomorrow morning. Maybe I'll go over to the church and see if Michael is free to talk. Then I guess I'll meet Jeremy at seven. Wish me luck."

Lottie gives Candy a hug. "That's my girl. Don't let either one of them make you agree to something that you don't want. You stand your ground and do what's right for you."

"I'll try," Candy replies as she returns Lottie's hug.

After spending about an hour with Michael, Candy returns to the saloon to take a short nap before she has to meet Jeremy.

When Candy arrives at the large boulder, her and Jeremy's spot, she watches Jeremy skim rocks on the water. Finally she takes a deep breath and says, "Hello."

Jeremy jerks his head around and says, "Hi. I'm glad you came."

"I'm glad I came too."

Jeremy walks over to her and asks, "How are you?"

"Well, to tell you the truth, I'm really confused. I talked to Michael earlier today and now with you. I hope talking to each of you will help me decide something." She sits down on the boulder.

"Uh, do you mind if I sit next to you?" Jeremy asks.

"No, I don't mind." Jeremy sits down and there is a long awkward silence.

"Candy, I'm sorry. I'm sorry for ending things between us. I wish I could go back in time and I would march in there and tell those gossipers to mind their own business. That you and I are fine. We don't need anyone to tell us what to do."

"Well, you must have needed someone to tell you what to do, because you listened to them."

"And I regret listening to them." He hesitates before asking, "Candy, are you leaving with Reverend Young tomorrow?"

Candy sighs, "I don't know Jeremy. I have doubts about going with him, but I also have doubts about staying here." She laughs, "Listen to me. I'm now the one with doubts." She stands, walks over to the water, and watches the sunset. "Isn't that the most beautiful site you've ever seen?"

Jeremy walks up behind her. "With you standing here, yes it is the most beautiful site I've ever seen."

Candy faces Jeremy, "Thank you," she gives him a faint smile.

Jeremy nods his head. "Candy, would it help if I ask you not to go with Reverend Young. To stay here and give us another chance?"

"Why, Jeremy? What has changed since we broke up to make you think we should try again?"

"Hmm, I know I was wrong to listen to them. I don't believe anything they said. Candy, we both gave seeing others a try. I know now that it doesn't matter if I see one or one hundred other girls, that you're the one I want. That I need."

"Say we do try again. What happens when someone else gives you advice on our relationship? Do I get let go again? Jeremy, I'm strong, but not so strong that I can go through this again. Two times is enough."

"I know Candy. I promise I will never listen to anyone else about us. I love you Candy."

Candy looks deep into his eyes. "Oh Jeremy," she says as she places her hand on the side of his face. "My sweet Jeremy."

As he places his hands on her waist he asks, "So will you give me another chance?"

She closes her eyes and gives a deep sigh. "I don't know, Jeremy. What about Lacy? I thought the two of you were a couple now."

"No, we were never a couple. We're just friends."

"Friends? Not from what she's been telling everyone. She thinks you're more than friends."

"I told her from the beginning that I wasn't interested in a relationship. Yesterday, I reminded her that we were only friends. She understands that I love you and only you."

Candy moves away from Jeremy. "You're getting good at breaking girl's hearts."

Jeremy walks over to Candy and takes her hand, lifts it to his lips, and kisses her fingertips. "I promise I'll never break your heart again, if you'll just forgive me and take me back."

Candy sighs, "Boy, you make this a hard decision to make. Jeremy, I want so much to stay here with you, but I just don't know if I can trust you not to do something like this again. With Michael, well I know I can rely on him to always be there for me, but well, I don't love him. Not yet anyways." She sees Jeremy hang his head and it tugs at her heart. "Jeremy, what about if we marry and have children. Can you accept the fact that they may stutter?"

"I talked to Dr. Wright about that. She says that since my stuttering was brought on by an emotional event, the death of my Mama, that she doesn't think it would be hereditary. Still, she can't rule it out completely. But she thinks the chances are slim. So to answer your question, yes I can accept it. Candy, I want us to have those babies we talked about. What about you? Can you take that chance with me?"

"If or when we marry. I would be willing to take that chance with you. I would love to have those babies we talked about. But there is that big if."

"Candy, here's another if. If you marry Michael, uh Reverend Young, could you have babies with him even though you don't love him? I know that's personal and none of my business, but I just want to remind you that you may not have babies at all with him."

"You're right Jeremy, this is personal and none of your business. But I do understand your concern. No, I could not be intimate with Michael until I loved him. So, there is a chance I may not ever have babies at all. But he wants me to help him in the orphanage so I would have lots of babies to love and care for."

"That's nice Candy, but that's not the same and you know it."

"I need to go, Jeremy. I have a lot of thinking to do. I'll give you and Michael my answer in the morning. You will come to the square when the stage arrives, won't you?"

"Candy, if you get on that stage. . .I don't. . .I can't watch that. I can't watch you ride out of my life forever."

"Jeremy, I want you there. I need you to come. If by chance I do leave, I need to be able to tell you goodbye. I think we both need that."

"Candy, please. . ."

"And if I decide to stay here, then I want you to be the first to know. I do love you Jeremy Bolt, no matter what happens." She leans over and kisses his cheek before she walks off going back to Lottie's.

When Jeremy, Jason, and Josh arrive in the square the next morning, the stage is just pulling up to Ben's. There is a flurry of activity as men start loading the luggage. Jeremy's heart sinks when he sees Candy with a small carpet bag walk out of Lottie's on Reverend Young's arm. They are laughing and Candy seems to be at peace with her decision. Michael opens the stage door and Candy leans in to place the carpetbag on the seat. Her and Michael exchange some words and he kisses her on the cheek.

Candy looks over at Jeremy. "Jason, Josh, she's going to tell us goodbye. She's leaving with Reverend Young, I just know it," Jeremy moans.

"You don't know that for sure, Jeremy," Josh says as he places a hand on Jeremy's shoulder.

"If that's the case, Jeremy, be strong and supportive. Don't let her leave with hard feelings between the two of you," Jason replies.

"I-I-I can't do this," Jeremy says. "I can't watch her leave, knowing I'll never see her again." He closes his eyes and says a prayer asking for strength to face her leaving.

Jeremy feels gentle hands on each side of his face. He opens his eyes and Candy is standing in front of him staring into his beautiful blue eyes. She pulls his face towards her and kisses him on the lips. He places his hands on her waist and responds to her kiss, thinking this is their goodbye kiss. He hears what sounds like the stage pulling away. He steps away from Candy and sees that the stage has indeed left.

"C-Candy? You missed the stage," he says.

"I know. I missed it on purpose."

"You mean you're not planning on leaving?"

"No Jeremy, I decided to stay here with you. But there are conditions. Are you free right now to go for a walk and talk things over?" she asks.

Nodding his head he replies with a big grin on his face, "For you, I'll always be free."

Candy says to Jason, without taking her eyes off Jeremy, "Jason cancel those arrangements you were making for me. I'm not going anywhere. Seattle is my home."

"What arrangements?" Jeremy asks.

"No arrangements, Jeremy," Jason answers. "I didn't even begin making them."

"What arrangements?" Jeremy asks again.

Candy laughs, "Let's go for that walk and I'll tell you all about the arrangements." Holding hands with their fingers intertwined, they walk happily to their spot.

Almost 2 months later, Jeremy and Candy are walking to the dormitory after spending another delightful evening together.

"So, are the girls excited about the one year celebration coming up this Saturday?" Jeremy asks.

Candy laughs. "I don't think excited is quite the word for it. They are deliriously ecstatic," she replies.

"And what about you, Candy? Are you deliriously ecstatic too?" he inquires with a chuckle.

"I am, Jeremy. Oh not just because of the celebration, but because Molly and Christopher should be here by then. You do think Captain Clancy will arrive on time, don't you?"

"If there's something I've learned about Clancy, its that he always keeps his promises," Jeremy answers. "I can't wait to meet your brother and sister. It'll be nice for you to have some of your family here for a visit."

As they walk up on the dormitory porch, Candy replies, "Yes it will. I've really missed those two. Oh they use to get in my hair, but they're really sweet kids. I hope you'll like them."

"Well I'm sure if they're anything like their sister, I'll love them." He wraps his arms around Candy's waist and she places her arms around his neck. They kiss and hold each other tight. "I guess I better go. It's getting late."

"I know it is, but I wish you didn't have to go."

"Me too. It's getting harder and harder saying goodnight to you." He kisses her again. "I'll see you tomorrow, right?"

"You better. You know, we have spent time with each other every day since we got back together. Not a day has gone by that we haven't been together."

"I just can't stay away. I miss you when we're not together. I had enough of the loneliness when we were apart."

"Me too." A quick kiss leads to a deep passionate kiss.

"I better go, or you'll never get rid of me," he laughs.

"All right. I love you. Sweet dreams," Candy coos.

"Pleasant dreams. I love you." Another kiss and Jeremy opens the door for Candy and sees that she's inside before he heads for home.

As he walks into the cabin Jason says, "Another late night?"

"Yeah," Jeremy chuckles. "I can't help it. I want to be with her all the time."

Josh laughs, "Oh Jeremy, you better marry that girl and quick!"

Jeremy chuckles before he says, "As a matter of fact, there's something I need to tell the both of you." He hesitates.

"Go on Jeremy. What is it?" Jason asks.

"Well, Candy's brother and sister isn't the only thing Clancy will be bringing to Seattle. I, uh, I had Ben order Candy an engagement ring and Clancy is going to bring it when he arrives in a few days. Come Saturday at the celebration, I'm going to ask Candy to marry me," Jeremy beams.

"That's wonderful! Best news I've heard in a long time!" Jason shouts.

"It's about time! Congratulations!" Josh laughs.

They both clap Jeremy on the back and give hugs.

"Jeremy, you're sure Candy will say yes? I mean, has she had enough time to get over the breakup?" Jason asks somberly.

"Yes, I'm sure she'll say yes. It's what we both want. I love her and I'm sure of her love for me. There's going to be nothing that stops us from marrying this time," Jeremy exclaims with the biggest grin on his face.

"Well, then, let's have a drink to toast to the happy couple," Jason exclaims as he pours all three of them a shot of whiskey.

Holding his glass up, Josh says, "To the happy couple!"

Jason holds his glass up. "To the happy couple!"

Jeremy holds his up and says, " To Candy!" They clink their glasses and take their drink.

Jeremy sets his glass down. "Now you know this is a secret so you can't tell anyone about this. I want to surprise Candy."

"Mums the word," Jason says.

"Yep, hush, hush!" Josh chuckles.

"Good and thanks for being here for me. Always. I have the best brothers in the world," Jeremy tells them.

"We feel the same way, Jeremy." Jason holds his fist out in front of them. Josh places his hand on Jason's, and Jeremy adds his hand on Josh's. Jason places his other hand on top to close the Bolt brother's handshake.

If everyone remembers the episode A FAR CRY FROM YESTERDAY, then you know the engagement didn't happen. Candy turns down Jeremy's proposal because she gets the news that her Mother has passed away. Now she is responsible for her brother and sister. She wants them to get use to all the changes- Seattle now being their home. And she wants Jeremy to be sure he is ready to take on the added responsibility of raising an extended family.

Jeremy is ready!