By Alaskastory
Marjorie Lange pulled both her suitcases up to a cab. A driver energetically loaded her bag, then pulled open a passenger door and greeted her in a serious business way.
"Where to, young lady?"
"Wedgewood Apartments, number 230, off College Road...."
"Hank, can I split a ride?" An interruption boomed from a tall, whiskered man in a knitted hat and athletic jacket.
"Sure, we got room. Good to see you, Roger." The driver reached out to shake hands. "You're back from the Slope?"
"Got time off." He nodded while slinging an overnight bag onto the front seat. Then he crawled into the backseat. As he hooked on a seatbelt, his shining blue eyes swept over an attractive woman with long strands of silky hair surrounding a very pretty face. "Wow, what made a fine-looking lady fly here in January? Nothing for you to see in mid-winter. Mostly dark all day and night."
Marjorie nervously tugged on her heavy coat, pushing it over stylish, knee-high leather boots. "There's plenty of snow to see." Puffs of white breath rose above her long, wooly neck scarf.
The driver turned from behind the wheel. "No delay, Mam. I'll drop you off first."
"Yeh, snow," the passenger said as he leaned her way. "Anything else interest you?"
Glancing at the over friendly stranger made her feel slightly tense. She turned away to focus on the street. "I notice many changes along this road, but I see the Fred Meyer store is still here."
"So, you've been in Fairbanks before?"
"Near here. Lived four years at Eielson Airforce Base until I was thirteen."
"So, you are from a military family. Where did you live after that?"
"My father's next assignment took us to Texas, then to Afghanistan. We ended up in California. That's where I eventually mastered a medical degree."
Mention of that accomplishment managed to quiet Roger while they sped through light traffic. The cab turned into a setting with winding access before rows of apartment buildings.
"This looks like your place, building 230," the driver called out as he braked to a stop.
Roger jumped out and rushed to open her car door. "Looks like apartments go up three flights."
"Mine is on the third floor."
She stepped out onto a walkway lined with ice and snow. Roger's strong arm caught her slippery step.
"Oh!" she yelped.
"Fancy looking boots won't work in Alaska. Not in the winter." Roger held onto her tightly. "Hey, Hank, you take a break while I help her get those bags inside."
"Go at it, Rog," said the grinning cab driver.
Roger released her at a railing along the entrance. There she punched in a lock code given by the manager and opened the door. He followed her into the lobby with both her large suitcases.
"Oh, thank you so much...ah, Roger. The driver calls you Roger." She looked directly up to a strong and handsome face standing tall before her.
"Roger Henricks. And your name?"
"I'm Dr. Marjorie Lange."
"A new doctor here." His blue eyes widened more. "Here to stay?"
"I'm in a one-year project. I heard you say you came from a slope. That means you were on a hike or a ski trip?"
"No." He grinned. "I work about five-hundred miles north. By the oil pipeline at Prudhoe Bay."
Marjorie turned toward the elevator. "Again, thank you for not letting me fall, and for help with luggage."
"I can get the up to the third floor."
"Not necessary, the cases roll on wheels." The elevator door opened. "I can manage." She hurriedly tugged the suitcases in.
"Bye, Marj," he called as the elevator door closed.
She wheeled the heavy cases down a hallway until one caught at the apartment entry. As she gave a hard tug, tall, muscular Roger swept through her mind. She nodded her head in disbelief and mumbled, "How could he come in my thoughts when I've come here to escape any man."
Marjorie heaved a sigh and noticed a light flickered on the home phone. She nestled in her coat on a firm sofa and pressed the message key. Her brother's voice called through.
"Hey, Marj. Call the minute you get in!" Her blue-green eyes swelled up and tears trickled down her cheeks. She dialed.
Her brother answered officially. "Lieutenant James Lange."
"Hello, Jimmy. I made it here. Thanks to you."
"I figured a few thousand miles from Henry would change things for you. Working beside your ex in the same hospital was way too much. Glad to get back to Alaska?"
"No, not really. It's a dark and cold in a late afternoon." She looked around the simple living room and adjacent kitchen.
"Oh, yeah. Wish I could have met you. But in a couple weeks I get time for a hundred-mile drive from Ft. Greeley. Sis, I hope you keep really busy until then."
"I see improvement needed in this place before my first Monday at the clinic. Also, I'll get a car rented. Don't worry about me."
"I'm proud of you, Marj. Glad you jumped on a plane." Her brother chuckled as they bid goodbye.
By Alaskastory
Marjorie pushed away from haunting thoughts of her ex-boyfriend's torturing words. Determined, she looked about her new apartment that was far from newly constructed. She knew both parents would expect a much larger and even plush apartment. Big boxes shipped weeks ago were stacked before her. From one box she managed to get bedding out to neatly adorn her simple double bed. Then she tugged suitcases into the bedroom and started unpacking.
Plugging in her alarm clock it showed the hour was past six. Hunger hit her. With kitchen cupboards and the refrigerator totally empty, Marjorie instantly recalled seeing a sign as the cab turned off College Road and thought it perhaps was a restaurant.
She decked herself out in a warm sweater, pants, wool scarf, coat and hiking boots. A temperature sign on a nearby building read, "minus twenty-two degrees". It was a brisk walk for over a couple of blocks. Getting across the highway, she noticed a fully filled parking lot before a sign marking it as Geraldo's.
Just in the front door, a Frank Sinatra sound came beyond walls slightly decorated as Italy. The music made her mind wander to trips she had made in Europe. Marjorie pulled a frost-covered scarf off her long hair. A cheerful waitress welcomed her, then escorted her toward a counter set for singletons. As they passed filled tables, a familiar voice boomed out.
"Hi there, Marj. Have a seat with us." It was the voice she heard in the taxi. It was Roger. He sat with a smiling couple.
The waitress assumed Marjorie would accept. She plopped down silverware and napkin on the table and pulled out a chair for her.
In a jovial way, Roger introduced her to Julie and Leo Granger. He spoke in a tone likely to make them think Marjorie was a longtime friend. Feeling stunned, she managed to return a smile and drape her coat over the chair before sitting.
"Both Julie and Leo have sights you'll love to see. With the artist, Julie, it's sculptures in ice. Leo is a dog musher and has lots of dogs." Roger gave a buddy slap to his friend's shoulder. "Tell her how many, Leo."
Leo was a heavily bearded man who showed strength in his shoulders and a loud voice that seemed to come from an uprisen chest. "Including all the puppies, that makes forty-two dogs. Every one of them is a damn good runner."
Julie was beside her and gave a friendly flare that immediately attracted Marjorie. A warm hand squeezed on hers as she spoke. "I hope you can make it to our place soon to see adorable new puppies."
"I'd love to see them. Never have had a dog of my own," Marjorie managed to say.
"Julie is fantastic at ice carving. True artist." Roger leaned across the table with his full gaze on Marjorie. "At last year's show she created a princess atop a full-size horse raising high on hind legs."
Julie blushed at his comments. "We're working to get all the statues started. It will be two weeks before the Ice Alaska show begins. I'm so glad you're volunteering to help, Roger."
Marjorie was taken aback and again stared at him. "You are a sculptor, too?"
"No way. They need help getting massive twelve-foot blocks of ice onto the fairgrounds. Great show. Real sculpturers fly here from places around the globe."
The waitress appeared with an order book and pen in hand. "Your order, Mam?"
Julie quickly pointed in the menu. "Marj, I've ordered their homemade raviolis. My favorite."
Marjorie agreed to the friendly suggestion and became aware of a relaxed feeling. Here she was about three thousand miles from home, sitting with strangers who seem to accept her as a friend. This couple didn't know she had met Roger only a few hours before and that was only in a cab.
Roger filled everyone's glass with wine and their conversations, mostly on dog races and ice sculptures, continued. Marjorie finished a second glass of wine, then fought back a yawn.
Gazing at her, Roger interrupted Leo's detailed talk about his dog team. "Been a long day after your flight got you here from California. Want to take a second ride with me? Got my pickup warming up now."
"I walked here. I can manage to get back..."
"Yeah, only minus twenty a couple hours ago." Roger held up the image on his watch. "Temp down to minus thirty now."
Julie, with a merry expression, handed her cell to Marjorie. "Give me your number before Roger takes you home. On Saturday I could show you some ice works."
Marjorie entered numbers with very pleased feelings for this new friend, but then felt frustrated as Roger held up her coat.
Leo and Julie walked out the restaurant with them and bid goodbye as they boarded a van lined with windows for dogs. Roger's shiny black pickup had obviously been running. Of course, it was a short warm drive to her apartment.
"Roger, thanks for the ride. A rescue from freezing." Marjorie hesitated to open her door, feeling anxious to adjust her relationship with him.
"I enjoy your company, Miss Marjorie Lange." Back came his attracting expression that again grasped her. His eyes in dark night glowed under reflecting lights.
Marjorie leaned away as she cleared her voice. "I want you to know I very much appreciate all you've done for me. On my first day here, you caught me when I slipped on ice, got my luggage in the door, and even introduced me to Julie and Leo, who are delightful to meet."
"It's my pleasure and my hope to see you again soon."
"Oh, what I need to tell you...."
"Going to tell me another guy has a hold on you?"
"No one does. No longer anyway. For now, I'm not dating anyone. Not during the year I'm living here."
"No dates for a whole year?" His raised brow seemed more covered with amusement than disappointment. "Well, I'll go along with that. But Marj, could we still be friends?" He held out a hand to her.
She extended her gloved hand, then twisted herself out the truck door.
| Author Notes |
CHARACTER LIST
Marjorie Lange is a doctor with Native Corp, came to AK to avoid ex-boyfriend Roger Hendricks is an engineer at oil pipeline job, helps with ice sculptures James Lange is a brother to Marjorie and in Airforce at Ft. Greeley Leo Granger is a dogsled racer and keeper of 40 dogs Julie Granger is an Ice sculpture artist |
By Alaskastory
Marjorie's new friends at the restaurant had noticed she looked sleepy after her long flight. But now, after the pickup ride home with Roger, that changed. She sparked wide awake as her mind heard his masculine voice ring out. Like a joke he had accepted her as a no-date friend.
Pulling into pajamas before the bedroom mirror, her determined voice spouted out, "I may have problems to solve, but Roger, you are not one of them."
Anxiously, she gave attention to her computer screen and fingered the location of a car dealer. Noting numbers to call in the morning, she switched to a grocery list. That immediately brought back a yawn.
Settling into bed, her thoughts dwelled on her arrival in Fairbanks. The first day had been so different than expected. She met a handsome, overly friendly man named Roger Hendricks. She gained friends as he introduced her to Leo and Julie Granger, who told much about their lives. Yet she had learned nothing about him.
Just before sleep came, she murmured questions. "Julie and Leo are married. Is he? They have a lovely home near the Chena River. Does he have a home? Leo is a dog musher and Julie is an artist. What does Roger do?"
The next day, Marjorie concentrated steadily on solving housing problems. She managed to get a car, groceries, a few pots and pans, a TV, plus pretty pillows for the sofa. She ended an exhausting day with a call to her mother.
"My dear, sweet Margie, I remember our long-ago years at Eielson AFB. The month of January was dark. The sun was up only three or so hours a day. Dark and cold. Are you staying warm?"
"Apartment is cozy, and today I got a Subaru with a good heater. Drove it to stores before noon, right when the sun arrayed over snow-covered spruce and frost-covered birches. It was beautiful."
"I suppose. But to keep the car warm when parked, do you have to plug it in? I told Henry about how that has to be done on every car that's parked outside."
"Told Henry? Mom, you've been talking with Henry?" Marjorie sprang up and began pacing. Her voice raised in tension.
"He called. Had to know if you actually left. Losing you has him upset. Surely you know that Margie."
"Mom don't worry about Henry Wilburn. He's in an extended family. I didn't leave him helplessly alone."
"I know, but I wanted you to marry that doctor. He is such a smart, good-looking man. I'm sure he attracts other women who would love to marry him."
"Perhaps a dozen women, or all sorts of nurses!" Marjorie nearly shouted. "Sorry, Mom. I assure you I made the right decision and followed Jimmy's advice to come to Alaska."
"Your sweet brother. Your dad and I want to hear any news from him. I remember that base is way down the road from you."
"Fort Greeley is about a hundred miles. He promises a visit soon." Marjorie continued details about a call with her brother followed by briefly mentioning friends she met.
"Be careful meeting strangers," her mother warned.
After the call, Marjorie's mind fell on Henry. She had not given her mother the details about why she broke up with him. There was a big reason, yet she still had fond thoughts of him.
In a year of working at the same hospital with Dr. Henry Wilburn, she watched him grow to the top. He was brilliant, an exceptional doctor. She was attracted by his friendliness, genius ability to diagnose illnesses, and how gently he dealt with patients. Professionally she had admired him and loved him.
As she snuggled into bed, Henry's soft, gentle voice rang through her. "I want you to be my wife, bear my children."
Marjorie thought how right her mother was that women are attracted to him. But what she didn't know is that it was not just women. Her last sight of Henry was when she stopped by his place after a late evening hospital shift. As her key opened his front door, soft romantic music poured through.
A stunning sight hit her. Her long-time friend, Eddie Frank, well known as gay, had his arms held around Henry. They danced lovingly cuddled together.
| Author Notes |
Character List:
Marjorie Lange, doctor with Native Corp, in AK to avoid past boyfriend Roger Hendricks, engineer at oil pipeline job, helps with ice sculptures James Lange, her brother in Airforce at Ft. Greeley Leo Granger, Dogsled racer and keeper of 40 dogs Julie Granger, Ice sculpture artist Maryann Lange, her mother and retired teacher Kenneth Lange, her father and military retiree Henry Wilburn, an ex-boyfriend Eddie Frank, a long-time friend |
By Alaskastory
While feasting on cereal and coffee, Marjorie gazed out her building. Yard-lights showed the grounds veiled in white and surrounded by snow-covered trees. The deeply dark sky made no indication of nine A.M. as displayed on her jingling phone.
"Hello Marj, this is Julie Granger."
"Oh, it is Saturday. That's when you promised to call. I'm so glad. Now that I have a car, where can we meet?"
"Fairgrounds are a short drive. You'll see its sign just two streetlights from you. Dress warm, but don't worry, the temp is above zero today."
"I'll be right there."
Over her long-johns, Marjorie pulled on new lightweight snow pants. The mirror showed a flattering, slim fit. The black pants were softened with a pale pink high-necked sweater. Her wavy locks of hair took a good twist to fit under a jolly red knitted hat. Then, with coat and boots on, she hurried out to the Subaru.
Standing before her sky-blue car, Marjorie exclaimed, "Ah, the button got it started fine from the third floor."
A warm air greeted her as she slipped behind the steering wheel. The drive was as short as expected. She thought how a drive anywhere in this town would take only a few minutes. Delighted to think that, she entered a nearly empty parking lot and pulled in close to a lighted gate. Walking to the entrance, she spotted blocks of ice stacked in a long line.
"Hi, Marj. Come on in," Julie called loudly. She dropped down a chisel and hurried to meet with a hug.
"I see wonders. Are all those pillars topped with big round balls made of solid ice?"
Julie chuckled. "Oh yes, they are lined up to give a royal welcome when we open ten days from now. Come with me. Lots to show you."
They walked on a snow-covered path to a playground with steep slides being built and ice houses for children to explore.
Marjorie immediately began snapping pictures. In a tree-lined area, they stopped for a friendly visit with artists working hatchets toward amazing creations. Partially sculptured was an athlete's muscular arm stretching high toward a basketball. On another spot, an aurora loomed over angels. Other images began as daring symbols of fairytales or pure imaginations. Very artistic hard work was the beginning of beautiful displays.
Marjorie filled the air with astonishing responses and was full of questions as they casually entered a building set up for gift items and refreshments. "How do those tall blocks of ice get here for carving?"
"They are cut and taken from very clear-water ponds. All done by volunteers. One guy helping is Roger." At a table, they hung their coats over chairs. "I suppose he has told you all about that."
"No, didn't you know I just met him?"
"Really? Leo and I assumed you two were dating."
An astonished grin covered a cold face that turned a bright pink matching her sweater. "I will not date Roger, or any man, during this whole year. Not while I live here." Turning to a surprised face, she added, "Julie, if you want, I'll tell you why."
"Wow, please do Marj." She followed behind her quick step to the counter.
"Coffee or hot chocolate first." They picked up their drinks, returned to the table and seated beside each other.
Julie's comforting hand rested firmly on Marjorie's arm. "I'm dying to know why. But don't let it be upsetting to tell me."
"Telling the whole story to someone is what I need to do. You will be the only one to know all about it. Promise not to share it with anyone?"
"Of course. Don't worry about that."
Marjorie looked into the calmest, most friendly eyes possible, and she began to relax in a soft voice. "I was engaged to a fine man who I loved for almost a year. He is someone everyone loves in more ways than one, even my parents, especially Mom."
"Oh dear. Did he break up with you?"
"No, Henry still wants to marry me."
"So, you broke up with him? Why was that?"
"I caught him making love to a long-time, dear friend of mine. That's when I called to take a position at a clinic here in Fairbanks and got on board a plane."
"You left him to your friend? She sure let you down."
"Not she. It was Eddie Frank who won him over."
Julie stared, blinking as words stumbled out. "This Eddie is your friend? Someone who is gay?"
Tears glossed soft green eyes. "Yes. Always knew that, I guess. He lived next door and we were buddies in second grade, all through childhood. In high school we both were cheerleaders where he would strut for the team. In college I stuck to science and he was off to a music school. Even then, we stayed in touch. He was the first one I told of my engagement."
"And of the breakup?"
"The three of us were there together." Marjorie choked on a breath. "Eddie caught the ring when I threw it their way."
| Author Notes |
CHARACTER LIST
Marjorie Lange, doctor with Native Corp, in AK to avoid past boyfriend Roger Hendricks, engineer at oil pipeline job, helps with ice sculptures James Lange, her brother in Airforce at Ft. Greeley Leo Granger, Dogsled racer and keeper of 40 dogs Julie Granger, Ice sculpture artist Maryann Lange, her mother and retired teacher Kenneth Lange, her father and military retiree Henry Wilburn, an ex-boyfriend Eddie Frank, a long-time friend |
By Alaskastory
On their last sips of hot chocolate, Marjorie uttered more about her split engagement. "It hurts to think I never expected Henry as gay. Also, losing a close friendship with Eddie changes my life."
Julie's eyes closed for a moment. "What happened is shocking." Her arms wrapped into a hug. "Marj, it is brave of you to take a step into a life filled with a new job in a different, far-away place."
"I had let my brother know. He's stationed at Fort Greeley Airforce Base and he encouraged me to move away to avoid explaining the whole story. I don't want questions from my family and so many friends."
"That would be torture. At least you don't have people here expecting details about your love life." She lifted her cup, toasting to a friend.
"Thank you, Julie. You help me feel a lot better." Marjorie's eyes widened with relief. "But you're giving me so much of your time. I'm sure you need to get back to carving ice." They both glanced at workers entering for a lunch break.
"Do need to, but since you did ask where the ice comes from, you should drive there. I'll give you directions to the pond."
Not feeling enthused, Marjorie nodded politely as Julie scribbled on a brochure. As they got back into jackets and gloves, she said, "You'll love seeing it, Marj."
Another hug parted them. At the parking lot, as Marjorie started the car, her thoughts hovered over Julie's odd, but cheerful expression. Her grin looked curious. Could Julie be directing her toward something?
An answer to that came in open sight when a snow-crusted road ended before a frozen lake. Five men were standing on solid ice in the middle of the lake. A man in goggles was operating an electric powered saw. He was a tall, strong man. The noonday rising sun glistened over muscular arms covered in a heavy coat. He worked in a confident manner.
It was him! Roger Hendricks appeared in her life again.
Marjorie resisted an impulse to drive away. Instead, she was parked before a startling sight of the lake being cut in rows of giant blocks of ice. Workers were managing to entwine rope around one block then hooked it onto tongs with dangling cable. All was rigged from a heavy-duty truck. The hunk of ice glistened blue in sunlight as it was lifted to set on a trailer bed next to other blocks.
Shouting voices and more chainsaw noise came from energetic men working to harvest blocks of purely clean ice. The hard workers seemed unaware of the frigid air. With a shiver, Marjorie assumed heat must build up under their heavy clothes. Her car windows began to fog up. Shivering, she restarted the motor. It took minutes before a few rays of heat began to blow onto her chilled legs.
A mitten appeared thumping on her foggy window. A deep voice rang out. "Hey, that you, Marj?"
Startled, she stared at a frosty beard and twinkling, icy-blue eyes. After a deep breath, Marjorie pressed the window down button. "Hello, Roger. Julie gave me directions here. It's amazing to see ice blocks pulled from a lake."
The car door popped open. "Come on out. I'll give you a close-up view."
She hesitated. "Well, that would be great to learn more about it."
Roger reached out, in a gentlemanly way, offering to help her step onto a crusty frozen surface. She paused, then shrugged, rolled up the window, and turned off the ignition. Leaning on his arm she stepped out into a clear view of the frozen pond. "I saw you cut blocks that are so large."
"Twelve-foot pieces. They're about two feet wide. Sculptors like that size."
"I met artists today. Julie introduced me to some from other countries."
"About a hundred sculpturers come from thirty countries. That includes the U.S."
"Really? How surprising!"
"Sure, Marj, a surprise for you in Alaska." Roger led her onto the surface of the pond. Gripping her arm kept her feet from slipping on solid clear frozen water.
"The ice is so deep." Her head was down, focused on each step. "How can you walk so easily and work with that equipment without falling?"
"This is how." He gave her a view of spikes attached to his boots. They stood away from a man noisily cutting into the hard surface. Roger began pointing at equipment lifting ice and the long bed of a van stacked with perfect blocks.
"Very impressive methods used here." Marjorie nodded with a shiver.
"You're getting too cold. Got hot coffee right over there." He pointed at a lighted trailer-house down a snow-covered path.
"A trailer used for warming-up? That's a welcome sight."
Inside, from a backpack on a shelf, Roger grabbed a thermos bottle and set it on a small table next to the furnace.
"My coffee is a strong black. Hope you can stand it." He handed her a paper cup.
"Coffee made by you?"
He nodded and his glance curiously roamed over her. "Great to see you out. I figured you would stay warm in that new apartment."
"Julie offered to show me ice sculptures today. I could not resist. Thank you for introducing her to me. She makes me feel like I have a perfect friend."
He grinned and sparkled in a lively way. "Oh, did you share secrets with her?"
A crimson color flooded her face and heat spun over her as she thought how Julie had heard the whole story of her anguish. As she twisted herself out of her heavy jacket, she lifted her cup and defiantly said, "None I will share with you."
"Oh, too bad. I want to hear more about you. Tell me what kind of life you plan to have in Alaska?"
"I told you about my year starting at the clinic. And, at the restaurant, Julie and Leo told me things about themselves. But not you, Roger. You have any home or a family here? And what sort of job?"
"Well, Marj, I guess I didn't mention much." Roger pulled off his knitted cap, scattering wavey dark brown hair over his forehead, giving him a sports hero look. "You know I just flew down from the North Slope."
"You pump oil out of the ground there?"
"Company I'm running does." He sipped his coffee in a relaxed way. "Almost got my house remodeled."
"A house in Fairbanks?"
"Yeah, live there by myself. Mom and Dad retired. They moved to Hawaii. I got a sister who is off studying at UCLA." He paused letting his gaze sweep over her. "Also, I'm a single man. But one you're not going to date. Right?"
Her cheeks still rosy, brightened.
A man's shout came in as the door opened. "Hey Rog, you and your pretty gal got any coffee left for me?"
Marjorie hurriedly stood up and slipped her jacket on. Before she could jolt away, Roger grabbed her gloves off the table and slowly handing her them, one at a time. Casually, he introduced his friend.
| Author Notes |
CHARACTER LIST
Marjorie Lange, doctor with Native Corp, in AK to avoid past boyfriend Roger Hendricks, engineer at oil pipeline job, helps with ice sculptures James Lange, her brother in Airforce at Ft. Greeley Leo Granger, Dogsled racer and keeper of 40 dogs Julie Granger, Ice sculpture artist Maryann Lange, her mother and retired teacher Kenneth Lange, her father and military retiree Henry Wilburn, an ex-fiance Eddie Frank, a long-time friend Hank, cab driver |
By Alaskastory
Driving away from the ice pond, Marjorie's thoughts gripped on how Roger was completely at ease, even after his tease about dating. How did this man with twinkling eyes stay calm and appear relaxed when he knew he had upset her?
In the apartment, her wondering thoughts continued to center on a man known only three days. Getting out of winter clothes and into comfortable jammies she decided that nothing yet made her dislike him. He was handsome, strongly confident, and friendly with her and others in a warm way. Yet, she strongly felt she must resist being attracted to him.
After betrayal by her fiance Henry, and her best friend Eddie, there was no way she could be wooed by another man. That night she decided to avoid seeing Roger Hendricks again. That would make her no-dating vow easier to keep this year while being in Alaska. Her brother, James, had suggested it as a perfect escape.
Monday morning her full attention centered on the clinic. Mastering a new routine captured all her thoughts and energy. Staff people welcomed her in a friendly way. She felt thrilled to be involved at giving support and treatment to people who mostly lived in far-away villages. Many patients spoke English as a second language and had native accents. All through the week her daily workload was both inspiring and exhausting.
By Friday evening she melted into bed early. Then the phone rang. Instantly she bolted to her feet, hearing a voice that had been close to heart since childhood.
"Hey, Marj. Your mom gave me your number. She knows we're best of friends."
"Eddie Frank! I can't believe you have the nerve to call me after...."
"After I broke your heart? I thought it would be much better for you to know the truth about Henry before you marry him. Not that he doesn't love you."
"It's you he loves, Eddie. You were hug-dancing with him....."
"Yeah. But you know what? Henry loves you too, Marj. You know, he really is bi-sexual."
Marjorie collapsed on the sofa, gripping a pillow. "Eddie, is that why you called?"
"Stay my friend, Marj. I don't want to lose you. Forgive me, Marj. And Henry too. Be our friends."
"Oh, Eddie. How can I do that?"
Shaky fingers clicked the phone off. Feeling stunned, a vision of Eddie's sweet face swept over her. It was a shocking call from her most treasured friend. In her heart she knew he warmly cared for her.
Through a sleepless night, her image vision shifted to Henry Wilburn, a man she had thought was the love of her life. She saw his striking physique as he strolled hospital corridors ordering treatments in ways that made patients lift hands in applause for a doctor trusted and admired. All nurses watched at him with adoring eyes, and so did she. It took almost a year to get him to notice her. Then a marriage proposal came surprisingly soon. Family and friends all knew she was over-joyed, especially Eddie. He had been the first she told.
In the morning, between cups of strong coffee, Marjorie dialed Julie Granger. She gave a full rundown of Eddie's call and pleaded for advice.
"That Eddie seems to know you so well. He figures you will forgive your ex-fiance."
"I know, but how could I ever find the right words. I can't imagine talking to Henry." Marjorie slumped over the kitchen counter.
"Then don't try to talk to him. Write. A thoughtful card may do the trick."
Eyes brightened. "Julie, that's a wonderful idea. I think I might do that."
Julie then offered to pick her up in the next morning for a Sunday service. "I want you to see my church. It's a treasured building, a tourist attraction."
"Sounds appropriate."
After that call, Marjorie anxiously ventured into a plan that may ease her. She needed to settle with Dr. Henry Wilburn and help him not feel guilt.
Saturday morning was as dark as night and way below zero. In haste, she dressed warmly and headed to her car. At the Fred Meyer store, she chose a card and selected groceries. Before returning home, she took a leisure drive through the old downtown area. Bright streetlights and strings of Christmas lights still adorned buildings. A few outside walls were painted with beautiful art scenes. Beside the large, frozen Chena River was a park that held an impressive statue. Marjorie slipped into a street parking spot and got out with her camera. She snapped photos at the large pioneer style statue, the bridge above the ice-covered river, a small church across the way, and then a wall painted with flowers.
Back at the apartment, her determination took over. In haste she settled down with the card and a pen and began to write:
"Dear Henry, please know I appreciate knowing you and our times together. I do care for you, but with all that happened, I need to be away. Please do not try to call me. I assure you Eddie is a longtime friend of mine. A fine man. He is a truly good companion for you, so please don't feel any guilt. I wish you both a joyful life together."
Marjorie hastily sealed the envelope then searched Henry's address in her cellphone. Once it was addressed and stamped, she hurried to the mail drop on the bottom floor. She took in a deep breath. A smile fell across her face as the letter tumbled in. A sense of relief had come.
With energy she avoided the elevator and chose three flights of stairs. From her living room window, she gazed at the early afternoon. The setting sun strongly casted a gold color on snow-covered trees. Her new home with dark days struck her as beginning to brighten.
Sunday morning, Julie picked her up in time for a church service. Inside log-framed St. Matthews Church, Marjorie gazed at impressive colorful glass windows in art that featured leaders in villages. Most people settled in the pews were dressed casually in winter attire and many appeared part of native families. After the service at a coffee get-together, Julie introduced her to several people. They greeted her in the same friendly way as happened at the clinic. She was new in this town yet accepted by all as a friend.
One bearded man asked Julie, "Leo got his dogs ready for the 500-mile Quest race?"
"He sure has," she answered while zipping up her jacket. As she and Marjorie walked to the pickup, she mentioned their lunch plan. "I thought Leo would drive in and join us, but he's wrapped up with dogs. How about driving to our place today? I've got soup ready for warming up?"
"I'll love to see your place. While we drive, I'll tell you how I followed your advice. I wrote a card to Henry and feel much better."
| Author Notes |
CHARACTER LIST
Marjorie Lange, doctor with Native Corp, in AK to avoid past boyfriend Roger Hendricks, engineer at oil pipeline job, helps with ice sculptures James Lange, her brother in Airforce at Ft. Greeley Leo Granger, Dogsled racer and keeper of 40 dogs Julie Granger, Ice sculpture artist Maryann Lange, her mother and retired teacher Kenneth Lange, her father and military retiree Henry Wilburn, an ex-fiance Eddie Frank, a long-time friend Hank, cab driver |
By Alaskastory
A thick forest of spruce trees covered in pure white snow surrounded a home built with logs. As Julie drove the pickup into a widely plowed driveway, bearded Leo appeared coming from a colony of dog houses. A strong arm waved a welcome, then a gloved finger pointed to the front door.
Marjorie raised her voice, "I'm not going in until you show me all those dog houses."
He gave a broad grin. "Okay. Come on."
Julie called out, "I'll get the soup to boil."
Plodding in high-traction boots along a snow-packed trail, Marjorie thought how her mother would be shocked seeing her dressed like this at church in Culver City. Now in cold winter clothes she was stepping behind a new friend in a new world. Dogs were greeting them in high volume barks.
Each dog was leashed next to one of the small dog houses. When Leo's commanding hands raised, excited barks tuned down. Each gave full attention to their boss. Leo walked directly in front of Marjorie to keep dogs from jumping at her. He spouted their names one after another. Each dog responded to his command, silently sitting at attention. Marjorie could not resist putting gloved fingers onto heavily fur-coated huskies. She petted one dog after another.
"Leo, do I count eighteen dogs and that many houses?"
"Little more than that. Older dogs have theirs too."
"Having so many is quite a job. You amaze me."
Leo mentioned the upcoming race and pointed out two dogs who would lead and another to take up the end position. He stopped giving details when he noticed Marjorie shiver. "Come on, Julie's waiting for us."
Indoors there were puppies. A playful pup avoided Leo's attempt to get all half-dozen off to their warm bedroom. The puppy scurried into Marjorie's outstretched arms.
With a laugh, she hugged the soft cuddly pup. "Sweet Cutie, you have to go off to bed too." She handed the pup to Leo.
"He's the most lively one," Julie said, then pointed a swirling hand around the room. "As you can see, our dining and living rooms are in the open together."
"I'm impressed with both how large it is, and how cozy in beautiful decorations." Marjorie moved to a shelf lined with exquisite native art pieces. "These birchbark items are so well done. So is this woven basket. Such fine native art."
During lunch, art hangings on the wall and shelves were discussed. But that subject ended when Leo listed details for an up-coming dog sled race.
Leo's dark eyes widened when he glanced at the wall clock. "Almost two. Time is slipping away. Rog and I are working on dog sled runners. A little filing needed on them. He'll be here any time now."
"Roger Hendricks is coming here?" Marjorie instantly stared at Julie who appeared to hide a grin with fingers brushing past her lips and soft brown eyes.
Leo jumped to his feet. "Yes, and I better get the puppy's settled in for naps. We use cages for that." He promptly left Marjorie and Julie at the table.
"I know, I should have told you. But don't worry, Marj. I'll drive you home as soon as the dishes are cleaned up."
"Oh, that's fine. It has been great fun to see all those dogs and your lovely home. There was no reason for you to tell me Roger might come here."
"Yes, but he is the most attractive man I know in this town. A fine man in so many ways. And he's your friend, right?"
"Julie, you know I plan to stay clear of men for at least a year." She squeezed Julie's hand. "You are the best. Never can I thank you enough for suggesting I write to Henry. Now I feel a lot better about the break-up."
Before Julie could respond, Leo came back into the room with a look of panic. "One of those little guys are missing," he exclaimed.
"Puppy missing?" both women asked.
"He must have slipped out of the house," Julie said. "Remember when ten of them ran out in the dark last fall?"
Leo grabbed his coat off a hook near the door. "Yeah, but now it's winter out there. Don't want him lost all night."
"I'm going out with you," Marjorie said as he went out the door. She slipped into her coat and back into boots.
Julie handed her a small flashlight. "Be careful, Marj. The sun is setting already. Be dark soon."
Leo could be seen under shading trees on his way toward the big dogs. Marjorie pointed her arm to let him know she would walk around the building. Stomping in track-free snow she moved slowly while eyeing for any marks. Beyond the rear of the house, she spied a few dents in snow that were perfect for a squirrel or tiny pup. It didn't really look like tracks. More like smashed snow that flowed down a steep side near the garage. Visualizing an object rolling down toward the driveway, she followed, inching with a downward step. It was steep and it was slippery. Suddenly, her feet took her into a tumble. Instantly she rolled down onto the driveway.
Vehicle lights beamed on her roll to the bottom. Sudden brakes squeaked loud and puppy barking filled the air. A truck door banged shut and the driver grabbed hold of a puppy.
"Hey, what's going on? Wait, is that you, Marj?"
Sprawled in deep snow, she tried to raise up but couldn't, nor could she control herself. Laughing overtook her.
Roger laughed too. He handed the puppy down to her before wrapping strong arms around a fully snow-covered woman.
| Author Notes |
CHARACTER LIST
Marjorie Lange, doctor with Native Corp, in AK to avoid past boyfriend Roger Hendricks, engineer at oil pipeline job, helps with ice sculptures James Lange, her brother in Airforce at Ft. Greeley Leo Granger, Dogsled racer and keeper of 40 dogs Julie Granger, Ice sculpture artist Maryann Lange, her mother and retired teacher Kenneth Lange, her father and military retiree Henry Wilburn, an ex-fiance Eddie Frank, a long-time friend |
By Alaskastory
Roger's arms gripped tightly around Marjorie and gently pulled her up from deep snow. Through shimmering eyes, he stared at her full smile. She paused in his embrace. He was inches from tempting lips. Then the puppy wiggled and stretched high enough to send a licking tongue to Roger's chin.
"Hey, that's an icy kiss, little guy," Roger groaned as a leather glove wiped saliva off his whiskered chin.
Marjorie twisted out of his arms, breathlessly saying, "This sweet little dog is a runaway. Leo is out searching too. He's hunting near the big dogs."
"Well, I'll let him know a beautiful angel rolled after the puppy and saved him." He stepped toward a darkening trail.
Marjorie called after him, "Roger, thanks for helping me."
Hurriedly, she got herself and puppy back into the house. Julie grabbed the naughty dog. "I'll lock him in, then we can drive out of here before Roger arrives."
"Oh, he's here already. I'll tell you about that when we're on the road."
"Hmm, Marj, that makes me doubt it's the puppy who gave that strawberry color to your cheeks."
"Julie! Let's get going."
By the time they climbed into Julie's car and the headlights were on, they could see Leo and Roger moving from the dog houses area. Both men gave them waves.
Marjorie quickly told how she had fallen down the same steep area as did the puppy. "As I rolled down, Roger's pickup lights blasted right onto me. Suddenly, there he was standing over me and shoving the pup into my arms. I tried to get up, but I was solidly sunk down in that bank."
"I'll bet Roger pulled you up. He's so strong!"
"Yes, he did."
"But surely, he didn't take advantage and keep you in a hug. I know he is a gentleman. Right?"
"Well, I guess it was longer than the puppy wanted. And me too."
Julie laughed.
A beep from Marjorie's phone made her hurriedly pull it from her purse. "A text message from my brother, James. He's coming to see me next weekend."
"Driving from Greely Airforce Base?"
"Yes, I want you and Leo to meet him. I'll be sure to take him to the ice sculptures. And we can go to the dog sled race."
Marjorie began to relax and started telling how James had convinced her to move to Alaska. "He agrees I stay for a full year and give all my attention to my new job."
"You mean with no social life at all?"
"Okay, Julie, I'll make sure you get a chance to ask him that."
When the car was stopped at the apartment, they exchanged hugs and made plans to get together the next weekend.
That evening Marjorie put in a call to her brother.
"There will be the Ice Sculpture Show and dog race for us," she said.
"Sounds great. Also, I'd like to meet your friends too. Who is that married couple?"
"Leo is a dog musher and Julie is an artist."
"How about that man you met first in the cab?"
"Roger Hendricks. He's the couple's good friend."
"Seeing him much?"
"A few times. He showed me how they get the huge hunks of ice for sculpturing."
"Well, does he live right there?"
"James, I'll make sure you meet my friends when you get here. Bye for now."
Her brother's habit of asking questions brought an instant memory of how he plunged into getting information from people. In minutes he could get a life story out of anyone. In a conversation with Roger, James could learn all what he has, does, thinks, plans. Her curiosity automatically would vanish with answers to all that. Thoughts of him would vanish. No way then would Roger attract her.
As Marjorie turned over in bed that night, there came a dream of strong arms wrapped around her.
| Author Notes |
CHARACTER LIST
Marjorie Lange, doctor with Native Corp, in AK to avoid past boyfriend Roger Hendricks, engineer at oil pipeline job, helps with ice sculptures James Lange, her brother in Airforce at Ft. Greeley Leo Granger, Dogsled racer and keeper of 40 dogs Julie Granger, Ice sculpture artist Maryann Lange, her mother and retired teacher Kenneth Lange, her father and military retiree Henry Wilburn, an ex-fiance Eddie Frank, a long-time friend Hank, cab driver |
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