Author's note: This story is between "Washita" and "Ready or Not"(or somewhere there about.) Michaela may seem to be a little out of character at times, but that is because I think, deep down inside she would be.

The Blind Can See

"Another beautiful day in your arms," Michaela said leaning against Sully.

It was early May in Colorado Springs and Michaela was soon to wed Sully. Often, on days like that day, Michaela and Sully would picnic in their own little area of the woods. Surrounded by nature and absolutely alone, the couple would snuggle close as they ate. Michaela sighed.

"This is so perfect, Sully," she said as she fingered her engagement ring. "It's so beautiful out here."

"Only 'cause you came with me," Sully replied kissing her head. "But it really is gettin' late and we outta get back 'fore the kids worry," he added reluctantly.

"But it's so peaceful here," she protested, not wanting to get back to the town and all the worries it always held.

"And we'll come back out here soon, I promise. But we gotta get back to the kids." Sully stood and offered his hand to her. She clasped it and he pulled her up. "Now, how 'bout we get on back there, pick the kids up and take a walk later? Hm?"

"Sounds wonderful," she said cheerfully.

In no time, the two had the picnic area cleaned up and their horses packed again. Michaela mounted Flash and waited until Sully mounted his own horse. They began to trot away and Michaela glanced back at him.

"Race you!" she exclaimed staring into his eyes. She gave Flash a slight kick in the ribs. The horse took off at top speed.

"Hey, no fair…you got a head start!" Sully exclaimed attempting to catch up. He yelled ahead, "Don't go so fast! Watch for mud!" The rain from two days ago had not completely dried in the wooded areas. The temperature had been high enough to dry all the main roads, but not the small paths.

"Catch me if you can," she yelled in response as both began to laugh. The race was quite enjoyable for both.

Michaela turned to see where Sully was, barely dodging a tree limb. She continued to ride quickly. Just as she heard his voice say again, "Watch for mud!" Michaela felt Flash began to slip. Too late to try to get the horse under control, Michaela was thrown off her faithful steed and flew backwards onto the ground. Michaela screamed just before she hit her head on a tree root.

Sully was not laughing, as he was moments before. Michaela's scream and fall had frightened him. He reined his horse and jumped down directly at her side. "Michaela, oh God please wake up!" he demanded of her still form. "Michaela, please I need you to wake up," he said unsure of what to do. He knew he needed help but leaving her here was not a good idea. What if she woke? What if someone else found her…or something happened while he fetched help? No, he could not leave her now. He knew that he should not move her, but the ground was cold and the children would worry. He remembered when Brian had hit his head. Sully had carried the form into town and nothing horrible had happened…well at least not because he carried him. He sighed. "I don't wanna do this, but I ain't got a choice now do I?" he said to the form of his love. He gently lifted her into his arms and cradled her. "I don't know what to do…would you please wake up?"

When she did not respond, not like he expected her to, Sully attempted to get her on the horse. He placed her on his horse so it looked like she was sleeping, then he climbed on and sat her back against him. Wrapping one arm around her waist and grabbing both horses' reins with the other, he clicked his tongue so the two animals began to trot along. Sully was afraid to go too fast, so the usual fifteen-minute ride took about a half-hour. He finally saw the outskirts of town and sighed.

Michaela began to stir as Sully reached the meadow. For about a minute she say speech less then her brow creased. "Sully? Where are we going and why on earth are we on the same horse? I am more than capable of riding on my own!" She grabbed the reins and stilled the horses. She climbed down from his horse. "Explain yourself," she said a little flustered.

"You fell off Flash and hit your head remember?" Sully said calmly. He certainly had not expected Michaela to wake so suddenly, nor for her to turn on him so.

Michaela squinted against the sun to look at him. She thought a moment and her head began to hurt a little. "I remember racing the horse down the path," Michaela recalled her speed as she rode the mare. "I remember her slipping…losing her footing and then I remember screaming. I don't remember anything after that Sully. But as you can see, I am better now…I'll be fine."

"Maybe you should check for bumps," Sully said remembering Brian's examination. "Better safe then sorry," he said when she opened her mouth in protest.

She sighed and probed around her head for any unusual bumps. Sometimes being the only doctor in town was annoying. It would be very complicated to examine herself right now. "I don't feel any abnormal lumps. Are you content?" she asked mounting Flash.

"S'pose so," Sully replied. He looked at her. "You're sure now?"

She sighed dramatically and said, "Yes, I am most positive. Now, the children are at the clinic waiting…shall we go?"

"Why are they at the clinic?" he asked clicking his tongue. Michaela gave Flash a pat to get her started.

"Because Matthew needed the wagon and would be getting back just as we did. So I told them to wait and not walk home. I do enjoy riding with them you know," Michaela replied with a smile. "It's cozy when we all ride together."

He smiled back. "Yea, but we're gonna have a problem doin' that with two horses." He replied wishing they had taken only one horse this afternoon.

"Well, we can always ride behind the wagon," she said as they crossed the meadow. Ahead, she saw Brian and Colleen standing by the wagon with Matthew. She gave Flash a nudge and continued on a little faster. She arrived at the wagon before Sully and smiled at the children. She was met with disapproval.

"And where have you two been?" Colleen asked tapping her toe. "We've been waitin' nearly an hour."

"Yea Ma, we're real hungry too," Brian said rubbing his stomach. "Not everyone had a late picnic."

Matthew playfully punched Brian's arm. "Is everythin' all right?" he asked.

"Fine, Matthew. I had a little spill thanks to a mud puddle. I'm afraid I'm a little dirty," Michaela replied looking at Sully's shirt. "As is Sully. But we're ready to go home now and I am sure we can buy you some supper at Grace's to take home," Michaela added.

Realizing that Michaela had left out the part that she was unconscious for the better part of an hour and that the dirt on his shirt was from riding with her, Sully glared at her and said, "You should tell them all of it, Michaela."

"All of what?" Colleen asked, concern showing in her face. She had realized that there must have been more to the tale as well.

"It seems," Michaela started glaring at Sully, "that I hit my head on a tree root. It's nothing too serious, I was knocked out briefly, but I am fine. It rather reminds me of Brian when he hit his head…" she faded but quickly added, "but this is different."

"How's it 'different'?" Matthew asked glancing at his adopted mother. "If ya went out at all, that's somethin' serious."

"It was probably just from the impact. I have no marks or cuts. There is no headache or pain at all. I suppose I was stunned. People react to trauma differently, Matthew."

Not really finding this answer acceptable, but too tired to debate it with her longer, Matthew nodded and said, "Let's get home then."

Matthew climbed into the front of the wagon and Colleen climbed into the back with Brian. Matthew snapped the reins and started off followed by Dr. Mike and Sully. After a stop at Grace's for a basket of food, the family continued home in amicable chatter.

After supper, Colleen and Brian finished up some chores and prepared themselves for the weekend. Michaela and Sully sat at the table sipping some coffee and holding hands. He smiled at her.

"Glad you had a good afternoon," he said running his thumb over the back of her hand.

"It was spectacular, Sully, as it always is. You never fail to please me." She smiled and glanced at their connected hands.

"Well, I ain't likely ta turn ya down for any picnics…specially when it includes food," he chuckled and Michaela joined in laughing.

"I've never known you to turn down meals," she said smiling.

"Actually, I remember you more than once suggesting a meal or two." She tilted her head and raised her eyebrows. "And they were always interesting dinners as well."

"Yea well…the one that sticks out most was definitely not my style," he replied remembering the one in Boston. "But anythin' for you."

She smiled and listened as the clock struck seven. "It's rather late. I must be getting to bed. I do have to go into the clinic tomorrow," she reminded him.

He stood. "Yea, I know." He kissed her cheek and looked into her eyes. "Take it easy though, I don't want anythin' ta happen after that fall today."

She heaved a sigh and stared into his eyes. "Byron Sully, I want you to listen to me. I am perfectly fine now and will be in the morning. I do not have a headache nor am I dizzy. My pupils are not dilated and I can see perfectly well. Trust me, I will live."

He smiled and kissed her lightly on the lips. "I know you'll live, but I don't want ya…"

"Taking any chances, I know," she finished for him with a sigh. "Now, I am a little tired and I must get up early tomorrow." She forced a smile, always hating when he left. "I love you," she said quietly.

"Love you too," he said giving her one more kiss and calling Wolf to leave with him. She walked the two to the door and shut it behind them. She leaned against the door with a goofy smile on her face. Colleen could not help but laugh when she walked in and saw Michaela looking like that.

"What's so funny?" Michaela asked slightly started by the child's sudden appearance.

"Dr. Mike, you look like a love struck kid," Colleen replied giggling. "I could hardly believe it was you."

Michaela blushed a little. "He is a wonderful man, isn't he?" she asked her daughter with a smile.

"Sure is. You're real lucky, Ma," Colleen said going over to her adopted mother and hugging her tight. "I'm going to head off to bed, all right?" she asked making sure her mother was fine.

"Of course. Don't worry about me, I'm a big girl," she replied jokingly. "Did Brian head off to bed already?" Michaela asked.

"Yea, he was gonna come in and say goodnight, but got side tracked." Colleen said going into her little section of the homestead. She pulled the sheet closed and began to change.

"Did he say his prayers?" Michaela asked blowing out one of the lamps. "Yea…almost three times since he kept forgettin' somethin'," Colleen replied sticking her head out from behind the sheet. "Night Ma," she added and then climbed into bed.

"Night Colleen," Michaela said changing. She looked out the window and into the sky. She began to think about her relationship with Sully. Washita had been a hard stage in their engagement to overcome, but they had accepted the fact that neither could have controlled it. She sighed and watched the clouds dance around the full moon. She smiled. On nights like tonight, one could walk as if it was daytime and never know the difference. She sighed one last time and climbed into her warm bed. Glancing quickly at the fire, something that was necessary still at night, she settled under the covers and allowed sleep to overcome her.

"Rise and shine sleepy heads," Michaela said walking cheerfully into the barn. "Just because you don't have a schedule to follow, doesn't mean you get to sleep all day," Michaela called up to Brian and Matthew. "Come on you two, Colleen's all ready starting breakfast."

"What are you so bubbly 'bout?" Matthew asked sitting up in his cot. He rubbed the sleep from his eyes and tried to focus.

"It's a beautiful day," Michaela replied. She stood and waited. "Come on, Brian. Time to get up!"

Brian sat up as well and glared at her. Wiping some sleep from his own eyes. He groaned and said, "But Ma, I ain't got school."

"Like I said, just because you don't have plans doesn't mean you get to sleep. Now get moving or else we're eating without you."

Brian was frightened by the thought of food being served without him. He leapt from his bed and began to dress. Both Matthew and Michaela laughed.

"I expect you both inside in ten minutes," she replied heading out of the barn.

"I don't get it," Brian said pulling on his boot, "where does Ma get the energy?"

"Bet she wonders that 'bout you too, little brother," Matthew added attempting to rise.

After breakfast, Michaela and Colleen cleared the table. "Well, what are you all doing today?" Michaela asked drying the last dish.

"Fishin'," Brian replied pleased his older brother was finally taking him to the stream.

"Takin' Brian fishin'," Matthew said in response to the question.

"I'd like to help you at the clinic," Colleen replied, looking at her mother for approval.

"Of course. But I won't have you wasting your entire Saturday indoors." Michaela smiled. "I did that far too much when I was your age and I regret it."

Colleen nodded. "Well, Becky and I were going to go on a picnic later…over by the schoolhouse," Colleen added so her mother would not worry.

"Sounds splendid. Are you getting a basket from Grace's?" Michaela asked wiping down the table.

"Yup," Colleen said going into her little room and getting her money satchel. "I'm ready to go."

"Me too," Brian chimed in.

"Well, why don't you boys just head out to the fishing hole from here?" Michaela asked putting on her hat.

"Yea…Come on, Matthew," Brian said grabbing his arm.

"See ya later, Dr. Mike," Matthew said, leaving with Brian.

She smiled as they left. "Well, the wagon is hitched already. So if you're ready, we can leave." Michaela opened the door for her daughter. Colleen grabbed a bonnet and scampered outside, followed by Michaela.

"Twelve o'clock," Michaela said to herself. Colleen had just left to go on her picnic and the boys were not due back until three. She played with the pencil on her desk, rolling it back and forth. Somehow, she felt different…and tired. But she could not sleep. She had patients to see.

"Knock, knock," chimed a voice from the door. She stood and replied,

"Come inside. How can I help yo…Sully?"

"Brought ya some flowers," he said handing her a bouquet of wild flowers. She sniffed in their fragrance.

"Thank you, Sully. They're beautiful," she kissed him on the cheek and looked about for something to keep them in.

"They ain't half as pretty as you," he replied sitting at her desk.

She finally found a vase to place them in and set it on the desk with some water and the flowers. "Perfect," she said to them. "What brings you to town today?" she asked. "I thought you were going hunting," she amended. She walked over and stood beside him.

"I wanted ta make sure you were ok," he said standing and wrapping his arms around her waist. "I needed to see how that head of yours was doin'."

"I'm fine," she said with a smile. "No pain…just a little tired, but that's because I went to bed late and rose early," she nodded as she spoke. She focused her attention to the button on his shirt she was playing with.

"Didn't sleep much, huh?" he asked watching her face.

"No, I didn't…I was missing you a little. I'm sorry I reacted the way I did in the meadow. I know you were only trying to take care of me."

"I'd do it again if I had ta," he replied pulling her into his embrace. "You scared me there, Michaela. I thought somethin' terrible was gonna happen."

"Well nothing is going to happen to me," she said as reassuringly as she could. "See," she said stepping back and spinning around, "I am perfectly healthy."

He smiled at her. "Perfectly perfect is more like it," he said with a chuckle.

She blushed. "Sully…that isn't funny."

He took her hands into his and raised them to his lips. "It wasn't meant to be."

She looked into his eyes and smiled her special smile. "Well then, thank you."

"Welcome," he replied. "Now, care to join me for some lunch?" he asked offering his arm.

She hooked her arm through his and said, "Actually, I think I would enjoy that." The two walked out arm in arm.

"Thank you for lunch," she said as he followed her into the clinic. "You spoil me, you know?"

He smiled. "Nothin's too good for you," he replied. "You were awfully quiet at lunch. Somethin' the matter?"

"No," she replied. "I was just content to be near you," she replied blushing. She looked into her patient book. "Seems Miss Robinson forgot about her appointment," Dr. Mike said going to the filing cabinet to remove the patient's file.

"Says here her appointment isn't 'til two," Sully looked at the file Michaela removed. "This ain't her file…this is Miss Sherwood's."

"Oh…" Michaela snatched the file from him and returned it to the drawer. "I must have taken the other one out this morning," she said walking over to the desk and searching for the file. "Here it is," she said showing Sully the name on it.

"Yup, that's it," he said worried that she was not reading the names.

She looked at the appointment book again and said, "Well, I still have time before she shows." She yawned and asked, "Care to stay and talk?"

"No, I want ya ta rest a little 'fore she gets here. Can't have ya asleep when she arrives."

Just then there was a knock on the door. "That must be her," Michaela smiled, glad for the interference. She opened the door and led the patient in. "Let me check that burn Miss Robinson," Michaela said motioning to the table. She watched Sully leave.

"Time ta go home, Michaela," Sully said coming inside the clinic. He looked around and sighed. "Where is that woman now?"

"Sully?" he heard the question come from the staircase. "Is that you?"

"Yea, Michaela, where are ya?" He asked opening the door to the upstairs rooms.

"Here," she replied. "Can…can you come here a moment?" She asked, holding tight to the banister. He could see from where he stood that she had been crying.

Worried that something was terribly wrong, Sully climbed the stairs two at a time. He was at her side in mere seconds. "What is it? What's wrong?"

"I…I can't see, Sully," Michaela responded, trying not to cry. She reached out to try to hold onto him. "I was very tired after April Robinson left, so I decided to come up here for a nap. I had lain down and fallen asleep almost immediately. When I awoke, everything was dark and I thought I had overslept, but the town was still too active for night. I rubbed my eyes, blinked a few times, but nothing happened. I still couldn't see. I was afraid to move; unsure of my surroundings…so I just sat there and cried. I finally found the strength to get up and made my way to the stairs. I was about to come down when I heard you come inside."

"You…you can't see anything?" he asked afraid.

"No…not a thing. My sight was blurry when we finished lunch…but it cleared up and blurred again. I assumed it was nothing…maybe just because I was tired. But now I can't see." She began to cry again. "Sully, I want to go home," she begged. She was still moving her arms in the direction of his voice trying to grab onto him.

Sully took her into his arms. "All right…we're goin' home. Where's the kids?"

"Brian and Matthew went fishing. They are going straight home when they finish. Colleen was going to go over Becky's and have Becky's father drive her home."

"You here on Flash?" Sully asked worriedly.

"No, the wagon is at Robert E's," she replied reaching to his face. "I miss your face."

"You'll see it again, soon enough," he promised strongly. "Need help getting downstairs?"

She nodded. "I can't see them remember?"

He chuckled. "Sorry…I…I've never known a blind person."

"I understand," she said. "I just want to go home."

Sully lifted her into his arms. "Well, then that's where we're goin'," he replied carrying her to the main room. There, he put her down and took her hand. "I'm gonna make you wait on the bench outside while I go get your wagon…ok?"

She nodded and held tight to his hand. She felt safe with him around her and she knew why. His love was her security blanket…and indispensable part of her life in this town. She could not wait until…'Oh no,' she thought to herself, 'I cannot let him marry me if I am like this. I…I cannot let him marry a cripple.'

He smiled at her, realizing his mistake. "I love you, Michaela," he said reassuringly squeezing her hand.

She smiled at him, a weak smile at that. "I love you more, Sully," she said quietly.

He led her to the bench outside, placing her medical bag directly beside her. "I'm gonna lock the door, put out the closed sign and leave ya here with your bag. I'll be right back, I promise."

"Why Dr. Mike, sure is nice ta see ya leavin' early for once," a familiar voice said. The accent plainly made it Grace.

"Is that you, Grace?" Michaela asked, her brow creased in consternation.

"Sure is, Dr. Mike. Is somethin' wrong?" she asked moving closer and looking into the doctor's blank eyes.

"I'm afraid I can't see a thing," Michaela said sighing dramatically. "It must be from the injury I sustained yesterday."

"You fell off that horse of yours…right?" Grace remembered Michaela remarking to Sully that she was fine at lunch that day. She knew something seemed different with her friend, but if she insisted she was fine, then she was.

"I guess the fall cause more damage than I thought," she said sighing again. "This is quite frustrating."

"I'm sure it is," Grace remarked. "Can't be easy not seein' things."

"I'm sure it will come back on it's own though…my sight that is." Michaela tried to believe what she just said. However, she was finding it difficult to.

"Well, I best get back to the Café, I'll bring you over a basket for you and the kids," Grace said stepping back.

"That's very kind, Grace, but the boys went fishing and I am sure they caught something. Thank you anyway."

"Perhaps tomorrow night then," Grace said. "See ya, Dr. Mike," Grace said rushing away. She walked into the store and dragged Dorothy out; thankful Michaela could not see that she was talking to their mutual friend.

Michaela was getting edgy waiting for Sully. Every wagon sounded like Sully coming for her. Every voice that said hello made her wish she could see whom she was greeting. The voiced all sounded familiar, but not to the extent that she could name them all.

She finally heard a horse's neigh in front of her and padded feet landing on her wooded clinic porch. "Sully?" she asked trying to hide the excitement in her voice.

"Yup, it's me." He came over and took her arm. "Come on, we're gonna get you home."

She nodded and grabbed onto him. "You won't leave me will you?" she asked, hiding the real worry behind the question.

"I'll stay until you kick me out, how's that?" He asked lifting her into the wagon.

"Sounds wonderful to me," she sighed as she sat against the hard wood. "I never realized this bench and the clinic bench were so hard," she said trying to sit comfortably.

"Well, you once said when someone loses the use of one sense, they make up for it with others. Maybe your senses are…umm," he blanked out on the word he wished to use.

"Compensating for the loss?" she asked.

"Yea," he agreed hopping into the driver's seat. He took hold of the reins and started off towards home.

"Are we there yet?" Michaela asked, feeling the wagon stop. Then she felt it bounce as Sully hopped down. "Sully?"

"Yup, we're home now," Sully said putting his hand on her knee. "I'm already beside you…stand up."

Michaela reached out and touched his broad shoulders first and smiled. "You're strong."

"You just noticed?" he asked a little offended, but she could feel him shake from a chuckle.

"Not just now…but I now know how strong you really are." She stood and felt his hands move to her waist. "You keep those hands where they are, Mr. Sully," she tried to scold, a smile playing around her lips. He lifted her down and stood there, his hands on her waist.

"How are we gonna tell the kids?" he asked trying not to move his hands.

She held onto his shoulders. "Umm, I haven't exactly thought about that," she answered honestly. "Perhaps we can just sit them down and tell them."

"I think they may notice before that, Michaela," he replied moving back and taking her hand. "Remember, I'm gonna have to help you inside."

She sighed. "I may be able to make it, if you help me up the stairs."

He sighed. "Come on," he said pulling her towards the house. "Step."

She counted the number of steps as she went up. When she thought she reached the top, she turned to her left and began to walk. She was right: she had made it up the stairs. Michaela felt along the wall until she found the doorknob. "I did it, Sully," she said excitedly.

"Ya sure did," he said pleased. "Keep goin', I'm right behind ya."

Michaela opened to door and smelled bread in the oven. "Colleen's cooking already," Michaela said with a sigh.

"Sure am, Ma," Colleen said checking the bread. Michaela found her way to her bed and sat on it.

"What's for supper, Colleen?" Sully asked going over to the stove after closing the door behind him.

"The fish Brian caught, yams and bread. I was gonna make corn but we didn't have enough. You're stayin' right?"

"Course, wouldn't miss it," Sully winked at her. "You make the best meals this side of town."

"I'm afraid I don't stand up much to Grace and Colleen," Michaela replied ruefully.

"Don't matter," Sully said with a chuckle. "I ain't marryin' your cookin'."

"You've gotten better," Colleen said trying to make her mother feel better. Both comments received a smile.

"Colleen, would you fetch Matthew and Brian for me. There is something we need to discuss before supper."

"Sure Ma," Colleen said leaving the room. Michaela heard the side door close.

"Is she gone?" Michaela asked trying to find the laces on her boots.

Sully went to the bedside and removed Michaela's boots. Making her sit back against the headboard, he placed her feet on his lap. He began to massage her feet. "Yup. So, what we gonna say?" he asked as he watched her relax.

"The truth…" she said hearing the door open again.

"You wanted us Ma," Brian said as he, Matthew and Colleen came inside.

"They're smilin'," Sully said with a chuckle.

"Probably because my feet are on your lap," Michaela replied blushing.

"Why did you have to tell Ma that we're smilin'?" Colleen asked, panic showing in her eyes.

Michaela could tell by the pitch of the girl's voice that she was worried. "Calm down, Colleen. I want all of you to pull…rather lift a chair over here," Michaela instructed. She put her feet back onto the floor and moved closer to Sully, taking his hand. The children did as told.

"Are all of you over?" she asked when there had been silence for a few moments.

"Yes, Ma," Matthew said in a whisper.

"It seems my fall…when I fell…" she could not find a way to put it.

Sully took over. "You're Ma can't see anythin' because she hit her head yesterday."

Moans and whispers were all they received in response.

Michaela moved uncomfortably on the bed. "Sully, what are they doing?" Michaela asked in a childlike whisper.

"Ma, we're gonna do everythin' we can ta help ya from now on," Matthew said patting her hand. "We're gonna take good care of you."

"I better check on dinner," Colleen said rising and going over to the oven.

"I'm gonna set the table," Brian said putting his chair back and helping his sister.

"I'll go unhitch the wagon." Matthew pushed his chair back under the table and went out the front door.

Michaela put her feet back up on the bed and felt her way as she lay down. She reached out for Sully's hand. She felt him move closer on the bed and take her hand.

"You…you'll spend the night here…won't you?" She pulled his hand atop her stomach and held it in both of hers.

"If that's what you want," Sully replied using his free hand to push some hair from her face. "You're so beautiful."

She smiled at him and closed her eyes. She popped them back open. "Move closer."

"Why?" he asked confused.

"Just move closer. I want to touch your face," she replied reaching for him. She moved over in the bed. "Come on," she patted the spot. "It's not the first time I laid beside you," she stated.

"Won't be the last either," he replied, complying with her wish. He moved beside her and said, "There, better?" He was lying on his side facing her.

"Much." She placed a hand on his cheek and then used her fingertips to trace his face. "There is one blue eye I love so," she said imagining she could see the eye. "And another," she added as she moved her fingers over the other. She moved her hand down and came across his lips. She smiled as she moved in to kiss them.

Sully pulled back a little and whispered against her lips. "I think I like you being blind…you seem more…"

"Amorous?" she asked kissing his lips again lightly.

"Yea, that too," he said stroking her cheek. "I'm gonna be a good husband to you…gonna take care of all your needs."

"I'm not so sure I will be such a good wife if I stay like this…I."

Sully put a finger over her lips. "For better or worse…in sickness and in health," he recited the lines he had often thought about. Even the Cheyenne promised their lives for each other when they married.

"I think this is worse," she mumbled against his finger.

"Naa, makes it easier to surprise you now." He smiled, but his eyes showed pain.

"Supper's ready you two," Colleen chucked from the stove.

"Good, I'm starved," Sully said reluctantly getting up off the bed.

"Me too," Michaela chimed in and got up. Sully took her arm and led her to her usual seat at the head of the table. He pulled out her chair and helped her sit.

He pulled out the seat to her right and sat. "Don't wanna be too far from ya," he explained when she looked at him with a question on her lips. She had felt his knee touch hers.

Brian took a seat beside Sully and Colleen, who had just come in from fetching Matthew, sat across from him. Matthew sat beside her.

Colleen served each person some fish and yams. She then asked, "Are we going to say grace?"

Michaela nodded and they all took hands and prayed.

"Dig in," Sully said to Michaela after they prayed. She felt along the table for her fork.

"I was letting it cool," she mumbled. She sighed. "Sully, could…" she hated asking for help, "could you please cut this for me? It would make it easier for me to eat."

"Of course," he said, blushing. He knew this was not easy on either of them. All of the children watched as Sully reached over and cut Michaela's food into bite-sized pieces.

Michaela waited until she heard him put her knife and fork down.

Then, she fumbled around for the fork and tried to eat. She succeeded in getting the first piece on the fork, but found it difficult to get the food to her mouth.

"You know what," Michaela forced a smile, "I'm not so hungry right now. I think I'm going to eat a little later." She stood and felt her way along the table. She saw the room in her mind and managed to find her way to the door and out onto the porch.

She felt her way along the house and into one of the cushioned chairs that Sully had placed out there for her to have tea during the afternoons. He was kind like that. She sighed.

"I'm gonna go out there," Sully said grabbing a tray Michaela kept on a shelf over the stove. He placed his plate and hers on it as well as a fork, knife and two glasses of lemonade. "You kids eat and clean up…we'll be right outside," Sully added as he carried the tray out the door.

Michaela's head snapped up and towards the sound of the door closing.

"It's only me," Sully said sitting in a small wooden chair beside her. He placed the tray on a little table between them.

"I thought you were hungry," she said turning towards the sound of his breathing.

"I could say the same to you," he replied. He took the fork and put some food on it. "Open up," he commanded gently.

"What?" she asked taken back by his command.

"I'm gonna feed ya whether ya like it or not. I ain't gonna have you starve because you're stubborn."

"I'm not stubborn," she countered.

He chuckled, "Yea and Loren's Santa Claus."

Michaela giggled at the thought of Loren in a red suit with a long gray beard and free presents. "That would be a sight," she giggled.

"Sure would. Now let me treat my lady like a queen and feed her, ok?"

"Sully, this really isn't necessary." Michaela lowered her head. "I don't want to be a burden."

"You ain't a burden, ya hear? You're the woman I love…and I'm gonna love ya forever," he replied. "Now open up 'fore this fish gets cold."

She opened her mouth and felt the warm fish hit her tongue. She chewed her food and smiled. "A woman can get used to this kind of service."

"Good, cause if it means gettin' myself a steady job ta take care o' you…and watchin' that reservation, I'll do it." He fed her some more. "You're worryin' the kids you know?"

She swallowed. "I know. I've never lost something that is absolutely necessary," she said twisting her hands. "You could walk away from me right now and I would never know the difference."

"But I ain't walkin' away…and I won't walk away. I love ya and nothin' or no one can change that." He fed her yet again. "And I don't want ya turnin' into a pile o' bones on me. So eat up."

She giggled and finished the bite in her mouth. "I don't think you've eaten," she replied reaching out for his hand. "I don't want you turning into a pile of bones either."

"I've been eatin'…hard to starve when Colleen cooks so well." Sully tried to feed her again; but when she felt the fork touch her lips, she turned her head away. "What's wrong?"

"I don't need you staying here because you pity me," she said angrily.

Her sudden change in mood made Sully freeze. "What are ya talkin' 'bout?"

She turned the ring on her finger. "I don't need you to sit here and feed me, to make a promise to love and care for me…I don't need sympathy. I can take care of myself."

"Where did all this come from?" Sully asked confused. "Why the sudden change in your mood?"

A tear rolled down her cheek. "I hate sitting here feeling sorry for myself, but what I hate even more is how gentle you are being. Say it Sully…say what you really think of all this. Tell me 'I warned you not to ride so fast'! Do or say something other than this. I don't need your false civility and empty promises. I know you won't stay…why should you? I am useless to you now!"

Sully gasped. "False civility? Empty promises? Is that what you think all this is? Do you think I am sittin' here, carin' for you because I feel the need to? Because I think in some way this is my fault? Do you think I am gonna wake up one mornin' and say, 'Hey, I married a cripple…better get outta this marriage'? I respect you more than that…you know I do. My proposal is good no matter what happens to you…you're my heartsong."

Michaela's tears continued to pour down her cheeks as the new word "heartsong" filled her ears. "You…you truly mean all that?" Michaela asked in a whisper. Her anger calmed by the love he spoke.

Sully chuckled. "Truly," he said kneeling in front of her and taking her hands into his. "I will love you all my days," he said.

Sully chuckled. "Truly," he said kneeling in front of her and taking her hands into his. "I will love you all my days," he said.

She smiled. "I will love you forever," she reached out until she found his face and could run her fingers through his hair. "I wish I could see your eyes…I've always loved blue eyes."

"You'll see them again…soon enough." He looked into the sky and could tell it was getting late. "I better get goin'…it's gettin' late," he said rising.

"No!" Michaela jumped up nearly knocking the tray to the floor. "You promised you would stay," she lowered her voice so as not to sound angered.

"I…you seriously want me ta stay here?" Sully asked in disbelief.

"I wouldn't say it if I didn't mean it," Michaela replied reaching out for his hand. "I'm afraid that not being able to see will make tonight a little complicated for everyone. Matthew is going to want to sleep inside the homestead if you leave…there is really no place for him to sleep."

"So, I can stay 'cause I like the floor?" he asked taking her hand.

"No…" she blushed at what she was going to say, "you can stay because you can sleep beside me."

"In a chair?" Sully asked thinking he would rather sleep on the floor.

She sighed. "We'll talk about this later. Let's go inside." Michaela felt her way around Sully and into the homestead.

Sully lifted the tray and watched her go. What did she mean 'sleep beside me'? He followed her inside.

Michaela made her way over to the bed by running her hand along her night table as she came through the door. "Colleen, could you get me my night shift please?" She assumed the girl was inside preparing for bed. Sully put the dishes on the kitchen table and stepped outside for the time being.

"Sully," Brian said walking over to him with Matthew close behind. "You think Ma's gonna be all right?" The young boy had been through so much already that it was difficult for him to see Michaela the way she was.

"Yea, Brian, I think she'll be fine. I'm gonna see what she thinks 'bout wirin' some doctors to come and fix 'er." Sully knelt to the boy's level. "I ain't gonna let nothin' happen to her."

"Good, cause I don't want nothin' bad to happen to 'er," Brian replied hugging Sully. "We're glad you're gonna be our Pa."

"I'm glad 'bout that too," Sully replied. "Now why don't you go finish up your chores and head to bed. In the mornin' we'll talk 'bout all this, ok?"

"Sure, Sully," Brian said turning on his heels and running into the barn. Matthew stayed behind.

"You gonna be stickin' around, Sully?" Matthew asked putting his hands in his pockets.

"Yea…she wants me to," Sully said shrugging. "Can't exactly leave 'er if she needs me."

"If ya wanna leave, I'll take care of 'em," Matthew said motioning toward the homestead. "I don't mind sleepin' on the floor if I gotta."

"You don't gotta. Your Ma made me promise I wouldn't leave 'er tonight and I ain't plannin' on breakin' that promise. Anyway, I don't mind the floor much either."

"You think she'll be able ta see again, Sully?" Matthew asked with sincerity. "I know how much doctorin' means ta her."

"Yea, I'm sure there's a doctor that can come fix 'er. Even if there ain't, I'm gonna take care of her…'cause I love 'er."

Matthew nodded. "Night, Sully," he said turning and walking to the barn.

"Night, Matthew," Sully said going inside.

"Sully, is that you?" Michaela asked, rising from the bed. Her nightshift moving as she stood.

"Yea, it's me. Now climb on into that bed there and I'll pull a chair over," he turned and reached for the rocking chair.

"No!" she exclaimed hearing the chair move. "That…that's not necessary. Is Colleen in bed?" Michaela asked.

Sully looked over to the little area Colleen called her room. "Yup, and I think she's asleep."

"Good. Sully I was hoping you would lay in bed with me…so I know that you're there." She crawled into the bed and stayed close to the side. "Please…before I change my mind."

"Michaela, you sure that's what ya want?" Sully asked nervously.

"Yes…that is what I want. It won't be the first time you slept near me," Michaela replied. "I really need you here."

He finally gave in and removed his moccasins. He sighed not knowing what to do. "Michaela, I…um…don't usually…well buckskins are uncomfortable in bed."

She blushed and chuckled. "Then sleep in your shirt. Sully, it isn't like I can see anything."

Sully moved to the side of the bed she left for him and removed his buckskins. He climbed under the blankets and the two laid down holding hands. "Good?" he asked starting to feel comfortable and liking the idea that soon they would be like this every night.

"Well…" she blushed. "I'd like you to hold me."

"Michaela, you sure you didn't hurt yourself?" Sully asked confused. "I mean…you want me to hold you in bed?"

"Yes. I slept in your arms the day you saved me from the Dog Soldiers," she reminded him. "I…I feel safe in your arms." 'And I want to make sure you don't leave me,' she thought to herself.

"Oh all right," he said. "Come 'ere."

She crawled over to him and put her head on his chest. He held her close and relished in the feel of her at his side.

"I love you, Michaela," he said kissing the top of her head.

"I love you too, Sully," she replied closing her eyes.

"Sleep…" he gently commanded stroking her cheek.

Sully watched Michaela sleep for nearly an hour. Her hand remained over his heart and her head was tucked under his neck. He smiled. So this is what nighttime with her would be like after their wedding. Waking to that familiar scent of roses used to wash her hair or her little form tucked silently against him. He sighed. It would not, could not, get any better than this. He closed his eyes and let sleep take over his body.

Colleen was up and dressed far before the rooster crowed. The sun was just beginning to rise when she opened her "door" and went into the kitchen. She looked around and noticed Sully's pants on the floor. She stopped dead in her tracks and looked to the bed where her mother slept. She was surprised, yet somewhat happy, at the sight she saw. There on the bed was Michaela wrapped tightly in Sully's arms. The two seemed peaceful enough, so Colleen allowed them to sleep.

She took the egg basket and headed outside. She was surprised to see Matthew awake and getting water for the horses.

"Matthew, you've got to see what Ma and Sully are doin'!" she said excitedly. "It's the sweetest thing."

Matthew nodded and went to the back door. He stepped inside and looked around the room. His eyes finally caught sight of the two adults in the bed. He smiled and returned outside.

"You're right. Dr. Mike needs him right now and I think it's real sweet o' him ta stay with 'er." He dipped the bucket into the barrel of water. "You get breakfast started and try not to make too much noise. Ma needs 'er sleep."

"All right, Matthew," Colleen said going into the chicken coop. She began to feed the chickens and take some eggs at the same time.

Michaela stirred against the strong flesh of someone or something. Wiping the sleep from her sightless eyes, Michaela sighed. "Sully," she said running her hand over his shirt-covered chest. "Is it you?"

Sully moaned and shifted a little, confused by the extra weight. He used his free hand to rub his eyes and then opened them. He smiled. "Mm…mornin'."

"You stayed here!" she exclaimed happily. "I thought I was dreaming but you kept your promise."

"I always keep my promises…especially to you," he kissed the top of her head. "How'd ya sleep?" he asked with a yawn.

"Wonderfully," she replied snuggling closer. "Will…will we sleep like this when we marry?"

"If it's what ya want," Sully replied. "I'd hold you forever if I could."

She sighed. "Sully, we need to do something about my sight. I don't know how long this will last or how long I will be able to bear it."

"I was thinkin' 'bout that last night. I think we should wire some doctors to operate or somethin'…see what they suggest and all." Sully held the hand on his chest in place and relished in her nearness. "I don't think I can stand losin' ya, Michaela. Remember Brian slipped into a coma after a few days…I don't wanna take that chance."

Michaela nodded. "I understand your worry and I think it is a fine idea. We can do it tomorrow. What time is it?"

"Seven…why?" Sully asked.

"I want to go to church. I want to talk to people and pray…I need to pray."

"So do I," Sully said with much faith. "I need to thank the spirits and the Lord for not takin' you away completely."

She smiled. "I think that is very sweet, Sully." She sat up in bed. "If you could get Colleen and ask her to help me, I'd like to get dressed." Sully looked into the opened area. "She's up already…must be outside. I'll go get 'er."

In no time at all, Colleen came bounding through the side door with a smile. "Mornin' Ma," she said cheerily. "Need some help?"

"I need some clothing so that we can get ready for Church," Michaela replied. "You seem very happy today," Michaela added. She stood and tried to make the bed, which Colleen was pleased to see she was able to do.

"I am very happy," Colleen said removing Michaela's green dress and matching hat from the closet. "It's a beautiful day and the birds are singin'…and Sully seems very happy too," Colleen said placing the dress on the bed and retrieving Michaela's unmentionables.

"Does he?" Michaela asked reaching for her pantaloons. "What do you think pleased him so?"

"The fact that you need and love 'im," Colleen said handing her mother the clothing. She then helped her dress.

"It was very nice to have him around last night. I thought if I let him leave he would never come back." She blushed at admitting her feelings.

"Oh, Dr. Mike, Sully ain't like that. He's so in love with you that it's plain to everyone." Colleen laughed. "It's almost like he's never been in love before."

"I sure ain't been in love like this," Sully said coming in through the front. He was immensely pleased that Michaela was already dressed.

Michaela blushed and smiled. "Oh, you haven't? What about Abagail?" Michaela asked reaching to the night table for her brush.

"Abagail and I had a different kind o' relationship. This is more grown up," he said with a chuckle. "Can I help ya do that?" he asked meaning her hair.

"If you would like to," she replied handing him the brush. He sat on the bed beside her and began to brush her tangled locks.

"What should we do to make it look all fancy?" he asked running the brush through her hair very easily.

"Colleen can put it up for me," Michaela said. "I…I mean if she isn't busy already."

"No, it's fine Ma. You gotta look your best," she said moving over and taking Sully's place. She began to put Michaela's hair up.

Brian rushed inside. "Tell him we're goin'," Brian demanded of his mother.

"Tell whom we are going where?" Michaela asked the young man.

"Tell Matthew we're goin' to the picnic this afternoon." Brian sounded like he was pouting.

"Of course we're going. We're even buying a basket from Grace as we do every weekend. Why should today be any different?"

"Because you can't see," Matthew said. "I don't think you should be out at a picnic when you can't feed yourself."

"I will attempt it or else I can eat at home. I will not spoil Sunday for the rest of the family just because I am temporarily blinded," Michaela was offended by her son's tone. "And I will remind you that I am an adult and will not have you dictating what I can and cannot do. I…" she began to break down but tried to control herself. "I am not an invalid…I simply need to get used to what has happened. If you do not like it, then do not eat with us. Sully, will you hitch the wagon so we can leave after breakfast?"

"Course," he said going outside.

"Sorry, Dr. Mike," Matthew said going outside to help Sully.

"Brian, please set the table," Michaela instructed. When she felt Colleen place the last pin in the twist, she thanked her and added, "Please start breakfast."

"Sure, Ma," Colleen said going over to the pan and beginning to cook.

Michaela found her way outside. She stood on the porch and inhaled the scents of nature. She listened and heard Matthew say, "But Sully, she's useless right now. She ain't fit to be nothin'."

"Matthew," Sully defended his finacee, "don't say that. She ain't useless…and I won't have you talkin' about her that way."

"Yea, well what were you doin' with her last night? Takin' advantage of a situation?" Matthew stared Sully down.

"She asked me to stay…she asked me to hold her…that's all I did," Sully said defending his actions.

Michaela found her way around the homestead. "Matthew Cooper that's enough! I demand you take every word you just said to Sully back!"

"Why? Because some of it's true and you can't face it…tell 'im…tell 'im why you wanted him to stay last night."

"Matthew, I said enough!" Michaela exclaimed. Tears of anger and pain rolling down her cheeks. "Just stop it!" She collapsed onto the step.

Matthew froze and looked at Sully. He carefully walked over to his mother. "I…I didn't mean it Ma. I was just angry."

Michaela continued to cry; his soft tone was not easing the pain. "Just finish up and go eat. I'd like to leave in twenty minutes."

Matthew slowly walked back to the wagon and finished hitching it. After one more glance at Michaela, he went inside.

"Michaela?" Sully said slowly nearing her. "Please don't cry. I hate seein' ya like this."

Michaela was twisting her engagement ring in circles. "He's right," she said in a whisper. "I am useless. Sully, I didn't ask you to stay last night because I was afraid of lurkers. I…I was afraid that if you walked out the door, you would never return. I needed to know that you were there even though I could not tell that you were."

"What makes you think I'm willin' ta give you up that easily?" he asked sitting beside her. He put his arm around her. "Have I givin' ya reason to think I'd leave?"

"A man needs a wife that will be of use to him…someone who can care for him and his children. I cannot properly do either, nor can I practice medicine and help with our financial situation."

"In less that a day, you've been able to come up with all that as problems?" Sully asked sighing. "I wish you wouldn't think 'bout bad stuff. I love ya…perfect or not. Remember when Dorothy had the growth?"

"Yes, I was so afraid that if it happened to me you would leave because…I wouldn't..." she faded off.

"Remember what I said to you that day?" he asked.

"Something like, 'I know what you're thinking and the answer is yes. I'll love you no matter what happens. I will always find you as beautiful as the first day I saw you.'"

"I think that's it exactly. What did you memorize it?" he chuckled.

"Of course…you calmed all my fears in one sentence. I'll never forget that."

"If I have to, I'll say it again. I love you and nothin' will ever change that." He kissed her and helped her inside for breakfast.

"This morning I would like to offer a prayer for Dr. Mike," the Reverend Timothy Johnson said to the congregation. "Dr. Mike was injured in an accident and cannot see at the current time. I ask you to bow your heads." Everyone, even Sully, bowed his or her head as the Reverend began. "Dear Lord, please heal Dr. Michaela Quinn so that she may be able to use her hands to heal the bodies of all your children in Colorado Springs. Amen."

"Amen," the congregation resounded.

"May you go in peace," the Reverend said calling mass to a close. The congregation walked outside and set up for their picnics in the meadow.

Sully, Michaela and the children picked their usual spot near an oak tree. Sully and Colleen unpacked the basket Grace had brought them and Brian went to talk to some friends. Matthew had left the second the church doors opened so he could see Ingrid at the Immigrant camp.

Colleen spotted Becky and ran over to her friend leaving Sully and Michaela alone.

Michaela was staring off into the distance. She looked like she was dreaming.

"What are you thinkin' 'bout?" Sully asked looking at her.

"How we'll be married soon," she replied but she was not smiling.

"We can postpone it…if that's what you're thinkin'." Sully took her hand. "I hope it's not though."

She shook her head. "It wasn't what I was thinking at all."

"Dr. Mike, Sully," Horace said coming over with Myra. "You know we're usually closed until 'bout one on Sunday, but Myra and me…we wanna send out some telegrams to doctors for ya."

"We feel real bad that this happened," Myra's sweet voice replied. "We can't let ya be blind on ya weddin' day."

"It's very kind, but you should spend the time together. We can wait until morning," Michaela replied smiling.

"We won't take no for an answer, Dr. Mike," Horace replied. "Lotsa folks in this town woulda died more than once if not for you. We wanna help."

Michaela nodded. "Then let's go send some telegrams," she replied.

When they had finished and been waiting for a reply almost an hour, Michaela said, "Horace, you needn't wait for a…" the tapping of the telegraph cut her off. Horace jotted down the message and smile.

"This one's from Boston. He says he can come but it'll take five days 'fore he can leave. That's gonna be near ten day 'til he arrives," Horace said looking at Dr. Mike anxiously.

"What is the doctor's name, Horace?" Michaela asked wondering if it could be anyone she knew.

"Dr. William Burke," Horace replied looking at the name on the paper.

"Oh no he don't. I ain't havin' that man come here ta convince ya he loves ya more. There's gotta be someone else," Sully said peeved that the man would show up after all this time.

No sooner had Sully uttered the word else then the telegraph started up again. This time a physician in California that recommended she seek the help of an institute for the blind and allow the pressure to subside on its own.

"What can he know?" Sully asked taking the now crying Michaela into his arms. It was starting to seem hopeless. "You know what, I'm gonna take you an' the family home. It's gettin' late. Horace, if any others come, bring them by the homestead please," Sully asked leading Michaela away.

"Sure thing, Sully," Horace called after the couple.

"Poor, Dr. Mike," Myra sighed. "She looks so helpless like that."

"That's why we ain't leavin' this room 'til we get some good answers," Horace replied with a nod. "I ain't gonna let the woman that helped me win ya miss her own weddin'," he promised his wife.

"Catch me if you can," she yelled back riding on.

"Watch for mud!"

"SULLY!" she screamed as she was thrown off her horses back.

"I…I can't see a thing…"

"It's all right, I'll take care of you."

"We'll all help around the house, Ma," Colleen said.

"She's useless…can't take care of herself even!" Matthew exclaimed.

"STOP!" she screamed darting up in the bed. Sully was immediately at her side. It was two AM by the mantle clock and Michaela had been having another nightmare.

"I'm here," Sully said helping Michaela lay back down. "I'm here."

"Make them stop…make them go away," Michaela said grabbing his hand, which was on her cheek.

"I can't make 'em go away…you gotta do that."

"But I can't fight what I can't see," she cried. The words sounding familiar to Sully made him cringe.

"We'll fight it together," he said taking her left hand.

"No," she said removing the engagement ring and placing it in his hand. "We won't. Until I can see…our wedding is…" Michaela looked away and whispered, "off."

"Off?" Sully asked incredulously.

"Postponed to the greatest extent. I will not burden you with me," she said turning onto her side and closing her eyes. "I can't do that," she added willing sleep to come…but it never did.

Tap, tap, tap. "Dr. Mike, Sully, it's me," called a voice through the door.

Sully jumped up from the rocking chair he had been sleeping in and ran to the door. He opened it and saw Horace standing outside.

"Mornin', Horace," Sully said. "What can I do for you?"

"Got three more responses last night," he said handing the letters to Sully. "Only one is any good…but ya ain't gonna like the name," he added. Michaela sat up in the bed when she heard that more telegrams had been received. "Read them, Sully," she instructed.

"One's from a Dr. Beaumont in St. Louis. He says he knows enough to release the pressure but can't leave 'til the twentieth. He's afraid that might not be any good but to let him know. Another's from a Dr. Cook in Boston. Says he's a family friend and hopes all the best for you. He promises to find someone to help. The last is from…o great another one!" Sully sighed.

"Who is it from?" Michaela asked annoyed.

"Dr. David Lewis in Denver. Says he recently finished a one-year course on the brain and can perform the operation. He'll be on the three o'clock stage," Sully sighed again.

"Da…David?" Michaela asked gripping the bed for strength. "Sully, what are we going to do?"

Sully took hold of his medicine pouch, which now held Michaela's engagement ring. "We're gonna let Dr. Lewis fix you up so we can get married."

"If…if he can do it," Michaela replied.

At three, the entire Cooper/Quinn/Sully family stood outside the telegraph office and watched as the stage pulled into town.

"Sully, I haven't seen David in a year…I'm rather afraid."

"No reason to be scared. He's here ta fix your eyes and that's it," Sully said putting his arm around her.

David climbed down from the stage, his medical bag in his hand. There were few difference in his appearance since his arrival the previous year. He had shaven and no longer wore an eye patch. He walked over to Sully and extended his hand.

"Sully," he said shaking his hand. "It is wonderful to see you all again."

"David," Sully said trying not to sound angered.

David did not move to greet Michaela. He merely said, "It is wonderful to see you again, Michaela."

"I don't think I can say the same," she said with a weak smile. "David, I don't wish to be rude, but I would really like to be examined immediately."

"Of course," he said lifting his medical bag and a carpetbag. He followed Michaela and Sully to the clinic.

"It's been almost an hour already," Matthew said to Sully as they sat on the bench outside. "What's takin' so long?"

"Guess he's got a lot to examine 'fore he can do anythin'," Sully said standing and starting to pace.

"At least Colleen's in there helpin' him," Brian added.

"Yea, that's somethin' good," Matthew said afraid of the two ex-flames inside the clinic together.

"I can relieve the pressure," David said laying the piece of equipment on the surgical tray. He looked at the clock. "I can't do it now because it will be too dark to see soon, but I can operate in the morning."

"Really?" Michaela said happily.

"Yes, but you must remember, relieving the pressure may not succeed in curing the blindness. However, it is necessary to relieve it or else you stand a chance of slipping into a coma. Tomorrow, first thing in the morning, I will begin."

"Colleen, please tell Mr. Slicker, Dorothy and the Reverend. You won't be permitted to assist," Michaela said to her daughter.

"Yes, Ma," Colleen said leaving and walking right past Sully and her brothers.

"So?" Sully asked walking to the door, pleased it had finally opened.

"David says he will operate in the morning," Michaela replied with a smile. "I want to spend the night here so we can begin immediately," Michaela insisted.

Sully was not going to argue and said, "I'll send the kids home ta get the things ya need."

"Thank you, Sully," Michaela said as he left.

"I thought you two would be married by now, but I recently spoke with your mother and she said you are engaged," David said cleaning the instruments.

"I don't think this is a proper conversation to have, Dr. Lewis," Michaela said trying to remind him he was here as a professional.

"I only wished to know if you were marrying him, I didn't mean anything by it."

"I am going to marry, Sully," Michaela replied sliding off the examination table.

"Even if your sight doesn't return?" David asked washing the last instrument.

"I'll face that obstacle if we come to it," Michaela replied. "Please, I would like to go outside and wait for my family."

That night was stressful for everyone. Michaela and Sully could barely wait and see if David could skillfully operate on her. Matthew disliked having Michaela's old fiancé in the other room. He was sure David would try something. Colleen was upset that in the morning she would not be allowed to assist David. Brian was excited that soon his mother would be back to normal.

Sully had made sure Michaela was all right in her room and went to a room across the hall. He laid on the bed and stared at the ceiling. For some reason, he could not shake the butterflies in his stomach. He listened to Colleen and Brian finish their goodnights as they settled themselves on the cots in Michaela's room. Matthew had decided to sleep on the floor at the foot of her bed, in case someone needed something. The clinic hushed as the occupants fell asleep.

Sully still could not sleep. The quiet room was cozy enough, but he still could not shake the ominous feelings he had. He stood and walked down the stairs and out onto the porch. The Saloon was the only place in town that had any action right now. He could see the scantly dressed woman flirting provocatively with the inebriated males. He watched as one by one, couples disappeared upstairs and to the rooms above the bar. Sully could never understand why a man would be willing to do such a sacred act with someone they did not love. He was pleased that he had Michaela…would have Michaela, he altered in his mind.

He walked decided to walk in the meadow for a while and see what nature would do to his tormented soul. He crossed the bridge and let the full moon light his way to the cemetery. As he walked, he fingered the medicine pouch around his neck.

"Postponed to the greatest extent. I will not burden you with me. I can't do that."

He still could not understand why Michaela insisted on returning the ring. He had tried a few times to convince her that his love saw past her sightless eyes. However, every time he placed the ring upon her hand, she removed it and handed it back.

"Sully, we will wait and see what David says. If it cannot be cured, then I will force to return to Boston."

"To marry another then?" he asked upset by her nonchalant attitude.

"To spend my life with my mother and my children. I cannot marry anyone if I am useless."

"Why do you think…woman you're gonna be the death of me yet!"

He still could not understand what had gotten into her. One minute the idea of spending her sightless life with him sounded satisfactory, the next it was a dreadful idea. The children had noticed Michaela was not wearing her ring and were afraid that the couple would not marry. To admit it, so was Sully. He was afraid that he was losing her again and could not take that. Matthew was taking the broken off engagement badly. He had pulled Sully aside the second he could and asked if he had cause the separation.

"I shouldn't have said that she was useless," Matthew insisted when Sully said that he was not the cause.

Sully sighed. "She has us all worried and on edge," he said to himself as he headed back to the clinic. "She doesn't know what she wants anymore." He slowly walked back up to his room, pausing to check on Michaela.

From the doorway, he watched her sleep peacefully and then slipped back into his own room, begging sleep to come.

As promised, David began as soon as he could. He ran through his morning routine quickly so as not to waste time. Then he immediately set the operating room up and sought out his three assistants. Michaela was on the table preparing to be put to sleep at nine. She closed her eyes and pictured the people in the room with her. Dorothy took her hand.

"Don't worry, Michaela," Dorothy said squeezing her hand. "We're here with you and prayin' for ya."

Michaela nodded and squeezed Dorothy's hand back.

"Is everyone ready?" David asked.

The three nodded.

"Dorothy, you'll be in charge of handing me instruments and administering chloroform. Jake, I need you to cut some…" David almost couldn't say it. "You'll need to cut some of her hair right here," he said pointing to the area. "Try to leave some hair above it to cover the gap. Reverend, Michaela wishes you here to assist in clamping…but I want you here to pray as well."

"Already covering that," the Reverend replied.

"Michaela, are you ready?"

"As ready as I'll ever be," she said.

Outside the town was silent and waiting. The crowd that had formed held all of Michaela's closest friends. Loren sat beside Brian trying to keep him calm. Grace, Robert E and Colleen had begun to join people together to pray. Matthew silently worried, his hands linked with Ingrid's.

"Dear Lord," Grace's sweet voice rang, "Bless our friend that she make it through this time and bless Dr. Lewis' hands that they remain steady and sure as he tries to cure her." She began to lead the town into a soft song of praise.

"Reverend, I need you to wipe that blood away so I can see," David said. Dorothy noticed he was perspiring and wiped his brow.

The Reverend wiped away the blood near the incision and continued to pray.

"Dorothy, hand me the drill," he said calmly.

Dorothy reached for what he called the drill and she called a monster. She handed it to him.

"Let's just hope I don't go too deep," he said.

The day began to warm as the sun continued to rise. The time was nearing one according to many a pocket watch.

"Sully, it's been four hours," Colleen cried. "Isn't he finished yet?"

"I don't know," he replied. "But it was a long time for Brian's too."

"But Ma ain't as serious," Colleen replied referring to the fact Michaela was not in a coma.

Sully shrugged. "I don't know all this medical stuff…but I sure know I'm worried," he said and hugged the girl.

The door opened and Dorothy rushed out and past the crowd. Sully jumped to his feet. David stepped outside wiping his blood-covered hands on a towel. Sully could feel himself pale and sat back down.

"She is all right, Sully. She's still asleep but survived."

Sully sighed with relief. "Can I see her?" Sully's eyes pleaded for him.

"Go on inside. The Reverend is in there praying," David said making room for Sully to pass.

Sully brushed past, stopped and said, "Thank you…for comin' here and helpin' her."

"It was no trouble," he said going back to the tray and cleaning up. Sully left him to his work.

Sully walked into the room slowly and quietly. Already seated beside the bed was the Reverend Johnson who was praying. The children followed Sully into the room and took seats beside the Reverend. Sully was not sure what to do. He stood between the bed and the door looking at the still body in the bed. His insides quivered with fear and his body begged him to leave quickly. Sully walked over to the bed and then sat on the edge. This was not the way he wanted to ever remember Michaela. Her head was bandaged over the cuts and her face was pale and damp. He wiped her face with a cloth. This was not the woman he loved. She seemed so weak, so fragile. He was afraid to breathe thinking that she would break.

"Michaela," he whispered trying not to wake her, "I just had ta let you know I'm here." He took her hand and held it in his own. It was her left hand. He released it for a second and dug into his medicine pouch. Removing her ring from the pouch, he slid it onto her ring finger. "I'm marryin' ya and that's final," he said to her.

The entire group then fell into a pensive silence: each thinking something different or praying to the Lord. Finally, the Reverend stood, nodded to the children and left the room.

While Sully and the children held a vigil around Michaela's beside, the town held one at the church. Inside, Michaela's patients and friend held hands and prayed that the Lord would help Michaela through the tough time. The crowd poured their hearts and souls into their prayer and some of the women even cried.

The night continued on and occasionally David would come into the room and check on Michaela. He asked Sully to follow him outside. "I don't know if Michaela knew it, but there is a chance that she will wake and not see for a few days." David looked at Sully. "She's going to panic and you know it, but we need to keep her calm. Not all patients see immediately."

"Will she see again?" Sully asked looking past the doctor and into the room.

"More than likely. I haven't heard of too many of these failing. But like I said, it may come back slowly and will take patience. I have sent for another doctor, a neutral one that will be arriving on tomorrow's stage. He's a good doctor and he'll make sure Michaela's incision stays clean and that everything is going well."

Sully nodded. "Thank you for comin'," he said offering his hand to the doctor.

"Thank you for trusting me enough." He shook Sully's hand. "I didn't have a choice," he said walking into the room.

When the stage arrived that morning, David greeted his friend, Dr. Bentley, and then climbed on the stage to leave. Abraham Bentley carried his two bags into the clinic and then went up to check on his patient.

"How long has she been asleep?" the kind old gentleman asked.

"Since the operation yesterday," Brian answered before anyone else could.

"'Bout a day," Sully replied. "Is that normal?"

"The medication would keep her asleep for some time and I assume Dr. Lewis gave her something in case she had pain. I am sure she will wake soon," Dr. Bentley added. "I see Dr. Lewis decided to wrap her eyes."

"He said that the bright light might hurt 'em when she wakes and that for twenty four hours she should wear that."

"We'll see about that," Dr. Bentley replied. "I don't think it will be entirely necessary."

Michaela shifted a little in the bed and tried opening her eyes. "Sully?" she said hoarsely, reaching for him.

"Right here," he replied taking a seat beside her and taking her hand. "How ya feelin'?"

"Thirsty," she said softly.

Colleen poured a glass of water from the pitcher on the nightstand. She handed it to Sully and he helped Michaela sip some from it. "Better?" he asked.

"Mm. I can't open my eyes," she said reaching up and touching the bandages. "What are all these for?" she asked.

"David thought you would need them," Colleen stated.

Michaela nodded. "Where is David?" she asked assuming her doctor would be in the room.

"He left on the mornin' stage, Ma," Brian said cheerily. "Dr. Bentley came to take his place."

Dr. Bentley stepped closer to the bed and asked, "How are you feeling, Dr. Quinn?"

"Fine," she replied smiling. She certainly was feeling better. "Do you think the bandages can be removed. I would like to test my eyes."

Dr. Bentley moved closer and carefully cut the second set of bandages that were covering her eyes. He slowly unraveled the cloth and let it fall. Michaela forced her eyes open and squinted against the light. She blinked rapidly and then everything faded into blurred colors.

"I still can't see," she said as she blinked again and things remained the same. "All I see are blurs of color." Michaela tried to fight the tears that made their way to her eyes, but one still escaped. Sully wiped it away.

"It may take some time, Dr. Quinn. Those blurs may soon take shapes and soon will have great detail."

"But my son could see almost immediately after he woke," she sobbed rubbing her eyes.

"Every case is different…you of all people should know that." He headed to the door. "If you need me I will be downstairs," he stated leaving.

Michaela sighed. "I guess blurred objects are better than nothing," she stated as cheerily as possible.

"Kids, why don't you go get some breakfast and bring us something back?" Sully asked.

The three children, or at least the older two, nodded and dragged the youngest out of the room. When they were gone, Sully sat on the bed beside her and took her hand.

"It'll come back, Michaela. Give it some time. We don't know if Brian could see right away. He woke only a couple o' times and never long enough to say anything…only to drink. And the one time he did wake, he walked all the way to the schoolhouse."

Michaela nodded. "David is gone?" she asked hiding her pleasure.

"Yup, said he thought a 'neutral doctor' would be better."

Michaela watched the blur beside her move and talk. It was frustrating not to see exactly what was going on. She sighed. "Sully, would you mind if I went back to sleep? I'm feeling rather tired."

"Course," he said helping her settle back in the bed. "Rest. I'll be here when I wake."

Michaela closed her eyes and Sully kissed her forehead. He held her hand as she fell back asleep.

Dr. Bentley checked Michaela's stitches a little later and decided they looked clean. Showing Colleen how to check and then how to clean them, he shook Sully's hand and said, "I seem to be of no need here."

"We need a doctor in town 'til she can see again. Can't ya stay around?"

The old doctor looked at Michaela's sleeping form. "I was good friend's with her father until I moved out west. He father made me swear I'd always look after her if anything happened to him. I guess I'll keep my promise and stay and help until she can see."

Sully nodded. "If…doctor, if she can see colors, how long before she sees shapes?"

"Could be later today…could be three weeks from now. Depends on how fast her eyes are capable to adjust to the new pressure."

Sully nodded and thanked the man. He went back into her room and sat beside her bed.

That afternoon, Michaela woke again and sat up in the bed before opening her eyes. She counted to herself and waited to see if she felt dizzy.

"Come on, Michaela," Sully said. "I'm here for you."

She smiled and could smell food in the room, which reminded her just how hungry she was. She counted to three and opened her eyes. They blurred and cleared and blurred again. She rubbed her eyes and then opened them again. Slowly, Sully came into focus.

"I can see you!" she exclaimed. She jumped from the bed and threw her arms around his neck. "I can see!"

He hugged her and tried to calm her down, knowing it would be futile. "I told ya so," he replied kissing her on the lips.

"And you stayed by me, through all of this you stayed by me."

"In a week I'm gonna promise that to ya forever…but there ain't no reason I can't keep that promise now."

She smiled. "You are far too good to me."

"No," he replied with a sly smile. "I love you…blind or not."

"My father once told me a story like this," she said smiling. "It was called 'The Blind Can See'."

He smiled. "And now even my blind love can see...she can see I love her too."

Michaela hugged Sully again and they waited to tell the children the wonderful new. As soon as the children were seated, Michaela and Sully told them the news and then Sully knelt in front of Michaela, took the ring back and said, "Will you marry me?"

"Yes," she sighed. Sully stood and kissed her on the lips.

When they broke apart he smiled and whispered, "I will love you no matter what."

"And it only took my going blind to see that you would love me forever." Michaela held Sully tight. She knew that it was only through her blindness that she could see Sully's love went deeper than any love she ever felt before. In her case, the blind could see that love would last a lifetime.

THE END The Magic of Christmas - Copyright © 1999 - All Rights Reserved - Janine D. Disclaimer:
This story in is in no way meant to infringe upon the rights belonging to Beth Sullivan, CBS, or any entity thereof. All rights to Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman and any related content, including characters used, belong to "Sullivan and Company" and "CBS Entertainment Productions."

This story is the property of the author. Copyright 1999. Nothing may be reprinted in whole or in part without the written permission of the author.