Nicodemus Snow~ part 1

Amelia Ann and I made the long journey from Missouri in the year 1865.

There were many factors that went into the decision, but mostly it was my adventurous spirit.
Curse that longing for the next adventure.
It killed my wife.
~~~~
"Nicodemus? Have I lost you again?" She asks quietly.
Her question brings me back to the present.
"Yes, I suppose so." I answer her. I smile and look into those gentle blue eyes. "Just thinking about the land again. The weather can't warm up quick enough for me."
She laughs.
"I know. And here I keep praying the next snowfall will stick a little longer."

I can sense the hesitation in her and I want to sooth every worry and put to bed every concern, but I know that nothing I say will help. We've gone over each detail more than once.
"We can stay." I say, knowing it's what she wants to hear.
"No." She whispers. "No, I know you. You'd never be happy here when there's land and adventure calling you. I married you, loving the spirit of adventure you brought into my life and I'll stand by you no matter where we are. You are my life, whether here or in Oregon." She pauses. "For richer or poorer, in sickness or in health, remember?"
"Yes. I remember."
~~~~
The sun warmed the earth enough to melt the snow but not make the ground soggy. It was time to head out. I gave us so many chances to turn back, even up to that first travel day, but it seemed her hesitation was gone. She had as much fire in her eyes as I did that day.
My heart aches with remembering.
We had set out alone, planning to join others at a fort in Independence. We knew the journey would be long and hard, but the payout at the end would be worth the expense. I was sure. I was so sure.

~~~~
"Oh, Nicodemus!" She grins from her seat beside me on the wagon. "It's finally here! The day we've been waiting for." She grabs my arm in her excitement. Her tiny, soft hands reminding me of how delicate she is.
I chuckle because her laugh is contagious.
"Yes, my dearest Amelia Ann. We are at the brink of a grand adventure!"

~~~~

How I wished to go back to the beginning of our journey together. If I could re-write our story's ending, I would. I would do whatever I needed to to save her. My heart, my Amelia Ann.

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