Erie Retreat

[Doc Holliday]

He only knew that at some point during the day, Is and Gilbert would show up. As to when was anyone's guess. For the most part, he went about his day as normal except that he put what he had for decorations on the tree and wrapped the two gifts that Gilbert had sent via currier to him. He just wanted something under the tree for Is when she arrived.
His daily chores didn't take long to do. Groom and feed the horses, bring in some wood for the fire and get Gilbert's package of smoked trout ready for him when he arrived. He wasn't much of a cook himself but he baked a few cookies for the occasion. He even laid a couple at the grave of his grandson.

As the day went on, he began getting himself more prepared for her arrival. He dressed rather casual but had a Santa hat that he put on. He had a pair of jeans and a flannel shirt that he wore over a festive t-shirt. He didn't have much else but this was the retreat where formalities never took place. He had a small ham, wild potatoes and greens for a simple dinner with some Gallic wine. The table was set for two with candles and a red cloth. A kettle of hot water was ready for hot chocolate as was a pot of coffee.

Finally, he heard the blast of Gilbert's horn. Doc just smiled at the sound knowing they were here. She was in her long coat when she arrived and went to another room to put it away while Doc gave a handshake and manly hug to Gilbert.
"Thank you, Brother," he told him. "This means a lot."
"Never a problem, Doc," he replied with his big, bearded smile. "I would stay but I really do need to return."
"Any Liberty people follow you?" asked Doc.
"None," answered Gilbert. "I think you have enough people looking after you to where that is not an issue."

As Gilbert readied to leave, Doc handed him a large package. "About thirty pounds of smoked trout will get you some good business."
"That it will," replied Gilbert. "Merry Christmas, Doc."
"Merry Christmas, Brother," replied Doc with a parting handshake. Quickly, Gilbert left. With a smile, Doc secured the door. That is when he heard from behind him,

"Hello John, Merry Christmas, i would like to be your Christmas Elf this year."

He turned around and saw her dressed in green, red and white with a red hat of mistletoe and leaves. The smile on his face turned to one of surprise. He stood in shocked silence as he admired her. His jaw moved a little as he tried to speak but no words left his mouth.
"Is, I just do not know what to say," he said softly. "
He looked at himself and felt underdressed but it seemed not to matter.
"You.....are beautiful," he said softly. He then nodded as he slowly approached her. "Yes, you may be my Christmas elf."
He then noticed he was standing not under her mistletoe but over it as he was taller than her but he was close to it.

"You know what is said about those under mistletoe." He could hold back no more. He kissed her, admiring her beauty, admiring what he had created.

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[MFE]Med Force One | Tales of Recovery|Med Force Enterprises