Second Harvest

Being around the Johansson family took Roy's mind off the disconcerting events of the day and he quickly forgot about the incident. When everyone sat down for supper, Roy brought up the conversation he had with the minister at the new church.

"I stopped by the brothel-church that's being built on the edge of town and met with the new preacher."

"Oh yes, Maura and Daniel McAllister."

"You've met them already?"

"I met them in town last week when we were shopping. They're a lovely couple. And, Maura is expecting a baby soon."

This information deflated Roy slightly since he had the whole speech worked out in his head. He needed to have a simple conversation about some idle things before getting into a discussion about the marriage ceremony. Now he would have to get straight to the point and this made Roy nervous.

"Did I say something wrong, Roy? You look unhappy."

Looking down at Sara, Roy then hugged his bride to be. Leaning over, he kissed her. "No Sara, just trying to build up some courage."

Looking into Roy's eyes, Sara seemed confused.

"Have a seat Sara. I stopped by the church to talk with the minister."

"He's called Reverend Daniel. That's his title because he is a Lutheran."

Roy became slightly frustrated. "Okay, so I talked with Reverend Daniel and met his wife, Maura."

"Aren't they just the sweetest couple?"

"Sara! Can you let me tell my story, please?"

Sara faked a pouty face and folded her arms. "I'm sorry Roy. Please continue." A small smirk crept in the corner of her mouth, but Sara stifled it.

"Now I've lost my train of thought." Roy sat breathing hard and Sara resisted any further interruptions. "Oh, what the heck, Reverend Daniel will conduct the wedding ceremony once the church is finished."

"That's fantastic news, Roy. Did he give you a date he expects the church to be completed?"

"Maybe a few months; are you okay with this news?"

Sara smiled and hugged Roy's neck. "It's perfect. Thank you. I wasn't sure you would make the arrangements, especially since you've never been married before, but I'm very proud of you Roy Folsom." Sara started kissing Roy, and they embraced each other again.

A month passed and Roy was leaving town and decided to visit the Johansson's place on his way home. It had been several days since Roy's previous visit and he was anxious to be with Sara. When Roy passed the railroad tracks, he turned toward Sara's. Less than a mile after his turn, he spotted an empty buckboard wildly crashing his direction. Dust was flying all around the wagon as it dashed past Roy, startling Sugar-Girl. Turning around, Roy raced Sugar-Girl after the careening buckboard. Riding alongside the racing horse and wagon, Roy leaned over and grabbed the dangling reins.