Chapters 111 through 120

It was hard to concentrate on anything that next day. Snow knew that Mai had returned that morning with less than good news…no sign of him at all. Dinger asked Travis to keep an eye on Snow to ensure that she did not try another search on her own. They knew her too well, she winced as she miserably picked apples in the Willows orchard…a task she usually did quite cheerfully. Today, however, she was not in a cheerful mood…and understandably so. Her thoughts drifted to that day ages ago, earlier in her Willows stay, when she and Mike were picking peaches and she fell from the ladder right into his arms…the same ladder that now stood alone in the snow covered ground. Snow still felt the guilt and wondering if the search would have been quite different if she’d gone to Mai or Dinger right away upon discovering Mike missing. Again, she winced. Feeling Travis’ watchful eye upon her, she hid her sorrow as she went on with her chores. Keeping busy was something she desperately needed to do. While she made her best attempt to stay out of Mai’s presence choosing her chores in the orchard…at the same time she prayed that Mai would find something as she went out on another search for Mike. She prayed very hard. Snow then heard footsteps leaving the area and going a short distance into the brush. Obviously, Travis needed a ‘bathroom break’. Snow sat on a tree stump to gather her thoughts. Such a lonely place the orchard was when you’re by yourself, Snow thought as she remembered all the times she and Mike would together pick the fruit for canning. She looked into her basket…there were enough apples for the preserves and applesauce Kahlua was preparing. Snow stood up and reached for the basket when suddenly it went flying across the orchard, apparently kicked out of her reach. She turned around to find herself face to face with an AllDev. Her adrenaline surged and she whirled around to run when she then met up with another of the same species on the opposite side. Two AllDev’s…she was trapped! Her breath stilled. She was helpless to their plans for her. She felt her knees weaken and she knew she would faint. It was just as well, she thought…she didn’t want to see it coming. But she saw the one large scary creature reach up with his claw aiming surely to maul her. As the large claw came down, he missed his target and instead caught Snow across the shoulder and sending her skidding across the ground…while the creature itself was hurling through the air and into a tree. Snow watched the creature fall to the ground from the blow and just before her world went black, she saw the source of the AllDev’s airborne trip across the orchard. Now ripping through the second of the two creatures was the beast from the woods…the same beast that saved her from the AllDev the evening before. She then collapsed to the ground, unconscious. Her shoulder was still bleeding from the AllDev’s missed attack on her. This new beast approached the lifeless girl with caution. Gently it inspected her bleeding shoulder and then looked about. Tenderly, it put Snow over its shoulder and quickly crept away. Travis sprinted back into the orchard still zipping his jeans upon hearing all the commotion. He now watched in horror as this strange creature disappeared into the woods with Snow as its prey.

Snow in WW: Chapter 221 – “The Lurker (part 4)”

Snow stirred, then winced. Even before opening her eyes, she felt the pain of where the AllDev must have clocked her good. Not only did it sting from where the claw ripped her flesh, she also felt stiff and sore as if something was not quite in place where it should be. She opened her eyes slowly. Where she thought to be looking at Karen’s surgery, or at the least a snow covered ground and orchard trees…instead her eyes found the flickering sparkles of what looked like Ophelia’s old cave. But no one inhabited this place at present. She blinked a few times, getting her vision from blurry to clear. Yes, it was Ophelia’s cave…but what was she doing here? Facing the crystalline wall, she rolled over, careful to not re-injure the shoulder that now screamed in pain. She felt of her shoulder with her other hand…it was bandaged with a familiar fabric. What was it? She picked up a piece of the torn material, dangling from her wound dressing. Her eyes grew wider…it was her own petticoat beneath her skirt. With much effort, she rose and checked…indeed her slip under her skirt was torn quite efficiently. But who could have…? With this question in mind, she peered around the cave, “Ophelia? Ophelia is that you?”

No answer. Suddenly, she felt a soft touch on her arm…a familiar touch that reminded her of how Mike would often touch her. She turned…hoping against hope. But the face emerging slowly from the shadowed dark corner sent horror through her veins and she let out a blood curdling scream. She jerked her arm away, not even feeling the pain in her shoulder for the adrenaline now surging through her body. She shrunk back from this beast…the beast that had now saved her life twice. Again the creature with the sad eyes bowed its head in what appeared to be shame and again crept back into the dark corner…his face now hid by shadows again.

“What are you!” she screamed. “Why are we here…in Ophelia’s cave?”

Snow suddenly felt silly in talking to an animal who could not possibly understand her. She panicked and rose quickly…her purpose was for the cave’s main entrance. As she stepped, her head was swimming from a possible concussion and she fell back toward the ground. The creature’s reflexes were lightning fast and he caught the dizzy girl in his arms. Snow gasped…now looking up into the face of this hideous beast. She froze in his grasp. Yet somehow she felt a strange déjà vu just then. She looked into the creature’s eyes and found something familiar there. Her mind took her back years before as she fell from that orchard tree and into Mike’s arms for the first time…a memory she’d just dreamed of earlier. Snow looked deeper into these eyes…these sad eyes that seemed to call to her, seemed to want her to understand. Involuntarily she reached up and touched the creature’s face, studying his eyes…then pulled back quickly.

“Oh God,” she whispered. “Is it you? Oh my God…Mike, is that you?”

Snow in WW: Chapter 222 – “Beauty and the Beast”

Snow stammered knowingly, “It…it is you…isn’t it?” Again she touched the creature’s face.

The beast gently took her hand in his and nodded sadly, lowering his eyes in shame once again. All fear gone, Snow grabbed the creature and hugged him, “Thank God! I thought you were dead!”

Mike didn’t return the hug. Snow pulled back to find him looking away from her…he shook his head.

“What happened to you? Who did this to you?” She gasped in her first realization, “Oh God…Margurite isn’t dead…she did this!”

Gently, he set her back down from when he caught her and again shook his head. He then rose, moving to turn his shame from his beloved. Snow rose and went to him. She wanted to touch him…but hesitated, “Then what is it? You can’t talk can you?”

He shook his head once more.

“We have to return to the village so they can know who you are. They are going to want to kill you when Mai discovers a new creature that can slaughter AllDevs the way you do. Please…let’s go back.” She touched his arm. She wished he could speak. Mike looked at her gentle grasp and pondered her words, then pulled away again shaking his head.

“But why not? Why stay away? Maybe Jennifer can help…” Suddenly, Snow started coughing.

Mike turned to her quickly, realizing he could not keep her here in this damp and cold cave, even with a fire blazing. He pulled her shivering frame into him gently. Snow’s emotions were muddled. She wanted to be held by her husband…but now he was this “beast”, she was confused. Her soul was willing, but her body was reluctant. Mike then grabbed the fur rug that lined the floor that he and Snow once made love upon in the cave. He wrapped it around her to keep her warm. He then swooped her into his arms and headed out of the cave toward the village.

They were able to sneak into their own cabin unnoticed. Mai must have been on a search, or else she certainly would have spotted them. Since Dinger had been sick, Mai had to take up the majority of the security of the Willows as of late. Mike set Snow down slowly and went to build a fire in the fireplace. Snow watched him, the rug still wrapped about her. She thought it odd that he could not speak, but yet he could do all these other “human” type things…why? She tried to think. She would have to go to Jennifer in the morning…maybe she’d know what to do. Then Snow spotted the Mistress’ sword leaning in the corner. Where usually, the object would bring fond memories and an anticipation of what was to come…now it lit a different spark in Snow…a spark of hope, of freedom. She grabbed the sword, her face filled with that excitement and hope, “Look! The Mistress! She could help us! We could take the sword as a guide and ask the Mistress for help again. She helped us before.”

Mike turned to see the sword in Snow’s hands and he became enraged. With a loud roar he ripped the sword from her grasp and flung it across the room…its handle and blade wiggled as it now jutted from the wall, embedded in the wood. Snow was mortified to see such rage in this beast whom for a second she forgot was her husband…or was it? Maybe it tricked her. But why would it be so angry with the sword? Snow’s face, that for a moment shown horror from the beast’s outrage, now showed a different kind of horror. And she knew.

“Oh no…it was the Mistress, wasn’t it! She did this to you!”

Mike’s sadness visibly returned to him and he dropped his head in shame and nodded.

“But why!” Suddenly visions of slaughtered AllDev’s entered her mind along with the memory of the decaying corpse of the witch. She then looked at the sword jutting from the wall and thought of its powers…those unmentionable powers that she and Mike so dearly enjoyed. Snow shuddered and sighed. She went to him and touched his arm, “It’s payment isn’t it…for helping us…for the sword?”

With an even greater sadness and without looking at her, Mike nodded.

Snow rested her cheek on his arm, “Then we will go to Jennifer in the morning. Maybe she can help us.” Then she looked up into his eyes, “Stay here…it’s too cold outside. We will go and see her first thing in the morning.”

Mike looked at her…her warm smile, inviting eyes, soft hair…he couldn’t stay there, he knew that. He wanted to be her husband…not this “beast” of a creature…not with such a beauty as her. He looked down at her and smiled, as much as the mongrel face the Mistress had given him could smile, and he shook his head. With a large paw, he patted her cheek and then ominously crept out the door and into the night. As Snow had predicted earlier, she indeed cried herself to sleep.

Snow in WW: Chapter 223 – “Gazebo Chat”

Snow gulped as she gathered the thoughts in her head as to how to tell Mai the truth of what had ensued as of late. It didn’t help matters much to watch the woman disinterestedly cleaning her nails with a knife.
”Mike is a beast, Mai,” she blurted.
Mai looked up at her unwaived. Then with a grin as though the most perfect sarcastic comment had popped into her dark head, she cooed, “Aw, Snow. That’s no way to speak about Mike. And here I thought you two had been getting on so well…what with that wonderfully entertaining sword of yours?”
Snow shook her head in frustration, “No no…that’s not what I meant.”
Mai gloated in her successful sarcastic attempt. Then she sighed as she lowered her knife, “I know what you meant Snow…and I know about Mike. I think I’ve mentioned before about what the Mistress can be like…I’ve dealt with her enough. But you refused to acknowledge what I said, as usual.” Mai then tossed her dark hair back as she gave Snow a look of pity along with a tone that screamed ‘I told you so’. ”This is exactly how she works, Snow. She might SAY she will help you, or whatever…but at a hefty price. Unfortunately, that is the part she neglects to mention…in true Mistress style. Her stunts never surprise me…this one included.”
Snow was almost in tears as she thought back to her original instinct…to tell Mai everything from the beginning. But she hadn’t. Their friendship had grown so far apart, she didn’t see the point…until now. She lowered her head ashamedly, “Mike was able to tell me…not in words…but he did let me know that is was indeed the Mistress who did this…and it was because of the sword.”
”Smart man your hubby…but then I’m curious to hear any conversation that might have passed between he and the Mistress…oh to be a fly on the wall for that one…’Why don’t I just give you your sword back?’ ‘Why don’t I just turn you into the ugliest creature that ever lived?’ Yeah…that’s about her style. Quite sadistic that woman…or creature, rather.”
Snow then burst into tears, fearing there was no hope. Mai rolled her eyes as if some two year-old had started bawling and she didn’t want to have to mess with the kid. It was a miracle this child had any tears left, “OK…that’s enough. This ain’t gonna bring him back Snow, alright? Now, let’s suck it up and discuss this as adults, OK?”
Snow sniffed and nodded.
”That’s better. OK…here’s the first thing we have to do. You and I have to go and get Mike in his current form…whatever that may be…and pay the Mistress a little visit. To be honest Snow, I wouldn’t take you, but I doubt that Mike will come to me seeing as that he probably knows I would something that looks like him. So therefore I will have to request the…pleasure…of your company,” she stressed wryly.
”You can add one more to that party!”
Mai closed her eyes in annoyance without even having to turn to see Ophelia standing there, hands on hips.
Mai then gave a fake yet cheeky grin, “How lovely of you to eavesdrop, Ophelia. Won’t you join us? May I offer you some veggie dip to go with your nose, seeing as how you have the most uncanny way of sticking it where it doesn’t belong?”
”You can insult me all you want, but I’m still coming with you. I refuse to let you go and accuse the Mistress of something so unjust, so horrible as turning Mike into a beast!”
Mai counted on her fingers as she gave a thoughtful look, “OK...so you’re saying either (a) Mike is lying or (b) that Snow can’t read her husband. So which is it?”
”What are you talking about? What I mean is how you just assumed the Mistress is behind this if Mike is indeed this beast everyone has been talking about.”
”So you don’t believe me?” Snow asked softly.
From Ophelia’s clueless look, Mai gathered the woman must have missed part of the conversation. “OK look Ophelia…the next time you decide to eavesdrop, be sure and manage to get in on the conversation from the beginning so that the conversing parties don’t have to waste their time catching you up!”
”Ophelia, Mike told me that it was the Mistress who did this…and that it was because of the sword,” Snow explained…again.
”He was able to speak to you?”
”Well, no…but he told me without words.”
Ophelia reached for any explanation that would bypass the Mistress being responsible, “Well, perhaps you misunderstood him. The Mistress wouldn’t do something like this!”
With this Mai stood, “Oh yeah, which Mistress are YOU talking about?”
”The real one... or at least the one any decent person knows!" Ophelia said scathingly at Mai.
"Oh...right" Mai chuckled "That’s where I must be going wrong…seeing as I am neither decent…or a person." Mai said looking from Ophelia to Snow "Let me know any time you disagree dear friends.” She sheathed her knife and gave a half sigh. “Nothing like walking into the jaws of danger, with close allies watching your back,” she mused. Mai directed her next statement at Snow, “Let’s be off Snow. I am sure you don't want Mike in this state any longer than you have to…and I don't relish the wait either. Lets get this over with.” She then gave a side glare to Ophelia and headed away from the gazebo.

Snow in WW: Chapter 224 – “Return from Transformation”

Mike wanted nothing more to cradle his Snow in his arms…but for now he knew he must get both Snow and Ophelia away from the Mistress, as well as away from Mai’s fate as soon as possible. He could see that Snow was beside herself with worry. Just because the two women’s friendship had been damaged severely as of late, his wife was still the caring and empathetic type…to anyone. It was Ophelia’s attitude that concerned him. She seemed to be reveling in Mai’s torture. Why? Was this the proper attitude of their ‘wonderfully giving’ so called “Willows fairy”? Strange indeed, he thought. As they returned to the village, Ophelia sighed as though just returning from a brisk morning run, “Well, I think I’ll go get freshened up for dinner. See you at the hut!”
As she trotted…or rather skipped…off, Snow also noticed her beaming satisfaction at the pain of another person…one that despite anyone’s belief’s, Snow cared deeply for. So how could Ophelia be so happy at Mai’s demise? Snow’s brow furrowed at the thought of the circumstances as Mike dragged her away. She turned to Mike with tears in her eyes, “What’s going to happen to Mai?”
Mike gently took her in his arms and told her the truth, “I don’t know, sweetheart. I don’t know.”

It wasn’t the time for ‘reunions’ per se, as Mike and Snow solemnly dressed to go to dinner. Perhaps the mood would change later. Right now there were too many unanswered questions…like what indeed happened to Mai. When the couple entered the hut, Ophelia seemed even more boisterous and happy than usual. Snow frowned at this and went straight to the kitchen with Mike. She wanted no part of this woman right now. Ophelia had not even believed Snow’s words regarding Mike being a beast or the Mistress being behind it. What was that all about? Snow’s thoughts were interrupted as Duncan and Nigel came into the kitchen all smiles, “Glad to see you back to normal, Mike. Ophelia told us everything.”
Snow scowled to herself. She was sure that Ophelia did not tell them everything indeed. ‘How did it come to this?’ Snow thought as she quietly helped Mike prepare the meal, lost in her thoughts. Mike didn’t say much either. Snow wondered how it all started. She and Mai had been so close just before that horrid witch took her off the cliff what seemed now like ages ago. Ophelia was the one who saved her, yet now she seemed to gloat at someone’s demise…why? Why save Snow yet be happy at another’s possible death? Snow fought back her tears as her mind raced with memories of how she and Mai used to be. What happened? What started it all? Snow thought hard. It seemed to begin with her sister Lily. Mai never did approve of Snow’s forgiving attitude of the events that occurred between Mike and Lily. That was explained…a misunderstanding. Snow knew that…she knew them both enough to believe it. But Mai was not so trusting…deeming Lily a liar, even calling her the town whore in front of the whole village…never set well with Snow. Then Snow’s distrust of Ritch didn’t help matters either. The role was reversed here which confused Snow as well. Mai was so quick to judge Lily, but then forgave Ritch for what he did to Kahlua without even batting an eye? Mai had an explanation for his actions, yet she didn’t believe Lily and Mike’s explanation for theirs. Then there was she and Dinger. Mai stole Dinger right from under Karen’s nose, or so it seemed. True, Karen didn’t seem too beat up about it and of course it takes two to tango as they say…meaning Dinger was no innocent bystander. But then it was no secret how Snow felt about ol’ “barbarian” Dinger anyway. But perhaps the thing that contributed most to this decayed friendship was Ophelia. Mai didn’t like her from the beginning…nor did Ophelia like her. Snow understood now that there was some kind of “sibling rivalry” or whatever between them...but that did not explain why Ophelia was so enthralled to see Mai suffer. This bothered Snow to no end and she wanted desperately to end this “feud” between them and get back to the way they were over a year ago…best of friends practically. Funny pair they were…as different as night and day, yet as close as any two friends could have been. Both would have given their life for the other…something that still hasn’t changed. So why then can’t the other facet return as well…their friendship? ‘What is sacrifice without friendship anyway?’ Snow thought as a tear finally escaped her eye.

Snow in WW: Chapter 225 – “Passing of Friends”

Snow felt numb as she walked the cold walk back to her cabin. She’d left the hut early. ‘What was the use?’ she thought as she remembered back to Mai’s apparent immediate desire to retreat from Snow’s welcome hug. She wanted to show her gratitude to Mai for what she’d done for she and Mike, yet Mai wanted no ‘thanks’, apparently…stating it was simply ‘her job’. Snow’s hopes that one day their friendship could be mended were quickly fading. Especially after the look Mai gave her in the hut tonight…like she had the plague or something. And then there was Ophelia. How wrong Snow had been about this woman, or creature, or whatever she was. She’d saved Snow many times, yet all but wanted to kill Mai herself. Why? Snow was very confused…but she knew now that she couldn’t trust Ophelia like she had in the past. So now her two best friends were not such good friends anymore and her sister and mother were gone…she felt so alone. She thought back to earlier that evening, playing with the twins and now the new addition to the Willows, Connie, and she realized how badly she wanted a baby. She had for a long time. Everything had been so crazy ever since she and Mike had been married. Last year she was pregnant but didn’t know if it was Mike’s or Edward’s after he tricked her into thinking he was Mike with the morphing ring and seduced her. Then after she lost the baby, she and Mike didn’t have another chance to try before she went over the cliff after the witch. Maybe now…now that things were somewhat back to normal…they could try again. Of course, it wasn’t like they hadn’t been trying really. But now that the stress was over, maybe things would be better. She was saddened that Mai didn’t wish to continue their previous friendship, but she knew she couldn’t force it. A baby would be wonderful…but then Snow smiled as she heard the doorknob turn gently…for she knew what she really needed was her Prince.

Harvest time was upon the Willows as all prepared for the big ‘Harvest Feast’…some villagers called it ‘Thanksgiving’. It was Thomas who suggested they go round the table and state something they were thankful for. It was obvious what Snow was thankful for as she squeezed Mike’s hand. She then looked over to Mai and smiled in appreciation…an act that Mai seemed oblivious to as she rose to get more coffee. That evening, Snow still found contentment as she played with the twins by the fire. The children were quickly learning how to tell between different shapes, as they put round, square, and triangular blocks into a wooden toy box with exact holes cut into it for the shapes to go in…compliments of Ritch for their last birthday. Mike watched his Princess with the toddlers as he engaged in casual conversation with Nigel and Travis…speaking of old world history and possible new ‘technologies’ in the Willows, like the solar powered gadgets Travis started working on last year. The feast was over, and pie and coffee had been served. The effects of wild turkey had a mysterious calming effect on folks and many of the villagers decided to turn in early. Snow kissed the babies goodbye and she and Mike retired to their cabin. As Mike closed the door slowly, his eyes never left Snow…a subject heavy in his thoughts. As she went and sat in their small loveseat couch by the fire that was once their friend Rebecca’s, a heavy sigh escaped her lips. She seemed a million miles away…yet he could read her thoughts. “We can keep trying, sweetheart.”

Snow shook her head slightly as if coming back to reality and looked at Mike thoughtfully. It was only a second before she realized he could read what was on her mind. “So you do want a baby?”
He smiled and brushed his hand through her hair, “Of course I do. I was so happy last year when we were going to have a child…I haven’t stopped thinking about it since. And with everything that’s happened…I think now is the time. Things are calm and back to the way they should be here in the village. I can’t think of a more perfect time. Watching you tonight with the twins…you looked so happy, like you were born to be a mother. And I know you’d be the best mother in the world.” He looked at the dancing flames, “I just hope that I would make a good father.”
Snow grasped his chin and brought his face to look at her, “I think you will make the most wonderful daddy in the world, too.” He smiled at her as she kissed his cheek, “And your right you know…” He looked at her inquisitively and she winked, “Now would be a perfect time.” She then pulled him into a passionate kiss.

Snow in WW: Chapter 226 – “Suspicion”

Christmas was soon approaching in the Willows…Snow’s favorite time of year of course. For this New Year’s will mark she and Mike’s third wedding anniversary. Has it been that long? With all that had been going on in their lives and the lives of their friends, the time has passed quickly. Snow smiled as she watched the men prepare the sleigh for the twins to take a ride upon. She couldn’t help but envision her own children in the future taking a ride with she and their father in the very same sleigh…she hoped upon hope. Just then she spotted Ophelia strolling casually up to her in her familiar carefree way.
”So, we finally get a decent clear day for sleigh riding this week…eh Snow?” She lightly punched Snow on the arm and laughed at her own “pun”. Snow only slightly smiled…more out of courtesy. She didn’t share the same feelings for Ophelia as she used to. True, the woman had saved her life…but then it seemed as though Ophelia was “selective” about whom she helped…why? Why would she delight in seeing Mai harmed, yet save Snow’s life? It bothered her…she couldn’t shake it.
Ophelia read Snow’s disproval and her smile faded, “Snow what is it? You’ve been pretty distant as of late?”
”Yes, I know. I have had a lot to think about.”
Ophelia sussed it was most obviously her failed attempts to be friends with Mai again, “I wouldn’t waste another minute on that Mai woman…she isn’t worth your time.”
”Obviously, she isn’t worth yours either.”
Ophelia sensed the resentment in Snow’s voice, “Well, no she isn’t. What’s wrong Snow?”
”Do you care about me, Ophelia?”
”You know I do.”
Ophelia’s tone seemed almost too matter-of-fact to be sincere, but Snow ignored it as her point was elsewhere. “I know you don’t care for Mai…even though you two have some kind of connection. But I can’t get past your attitude towards her in the woods…with the Mistress. You were delighting in her demise…even encouraging it. I’m troubled by someone’s ability to save an innocent life on one hand, and then on the other be involved in taking one, Ophelia. It really bothers me…like you have an alternate agenda. Do you?”
”Do I what?” She folded her arms, hardly showing any concern at Snow’s comments.
”Do you have an alternate agenda for me? Meaning…did you save me because you’re a good person…or because I serve your purpose in some way?”
”Don’t be ridiculous Snow. What’s come over you? What possible agenda would I have?”
Her words were again not quite sincere, and this time ladled with some arrogance. Snow’s tone quieted in her disappointment. She was too tired to argue a losing battle. Still, she was convinced that Ophelia was not being sincere in their friendship, “I don’t know Ophelia. It’s been a long day…maybe I’m just tired. Forget I said anything.”
With that, Snow sadly headed towards her cabin, leaving Ophelia to ponder Snow’s words. She was particularly suspicious of Snow’s recent behavior towards her…and now this. She didn’t know what to think of it…but she knew it couldn’t be good.

Snow in WW: Chapter 227 – “The Little Black Dress”

“Done!” Snow said triumphantly. So loud in fact that it made she and Mike’s now full grown wolf cub Maxwell jump from a slumber by the fire. Snow proudly held the sexy black dress up to her and pretended to model it for Maxwell. It was short, tight, black and off-the-shoulder…perfect for Mai in Snow’s eyes, “So what do you think?”
Maxwell whined in disapproval and then laid his head down, returning to his nap.
”Oh, silly. I know it isn’t my style…but it isn’t for me. It’s a Christmas present for Mai. Since she and Ritch are now ‘officially’ together, I thought it might be nice if she had a new dress to go on a date with Ritch in. And a dress like this seems like her style. I just hope she likes it…and I hope it fits. It’s made of a stretchy material, but I had to go off guess work to get the size right.”
The front door opened softly and Mike poked his head in, “You about ready? Folks are starting to head to the hut for breakfast. It’s about done.”
”Luckily, so am I,” she said happily as she held the dress up for Mike to see.
He smiled approvingly, “Ritch will be a happy man. Too bad we can’t keep it for a night.” He winked and pulled Snow into an embrace.
She giggled, “Ah, ah, ah! She gently pushed him back. Like you said…folks are heading that way.” Then she stopped and leaned in to kiss him, “Merry Christmas, darling.”

The hut was buzzing. Christmas breakfast had been scarfed down and it was now gift time! The kids were all playing with their new toys and all the gifts had been passed out…well almost all of them. Snow looked around, baffled when she couldn’t see Mai, “I thought I just saw her a minute ago.”
”She’s over there with Ville,” Ritch said with a hint of contempt, masked by the joy of playing with the twins.
Sure enough, Snow then spotted Mai over in a corner drinking with Ville and laughing. She set aside her confusion that Mai wasn’t with her ‘new beau’ and cheerfully walked over to the pair.
”Merry Christmas Mai!” she proudly handed Mai the bundle wrapped in paper and tied with an extravagant bow. Mai took the gift as if she didn’t know what to do with it. “You got something for me? I’m sorry Snow…but I don’t have anything for…”
”That’s OK. I just wanted to do this. Go ahead…open it!”
With a regretful sigh, Mai opened the gift. She was halfway thankful it didn’t come from Ophelia, lest she be afraid it would blow up in her face. However, the look on Mai’s face when she held up the gift suggested it might as well have been a bomb.
”It’s a dress!” Snow stated the obvious.
Mai looked at Snow and resisted the temptation to say something sarcastic in reply to Snow’s obvious statement. It was after all, Christmas. “Gee…a dress from a princess…just what I always wanted.” She looked at Snow who smiling, obviously missed her meaning. “Right. Well, thank you Snow. It’s was very nice of you…but are you sure it wasn’t meant for say, Ophelia?” Her eyes darted the room for the creature.
Snow’s smiled faded slightly in confusion. ”No, I made it for you…for perhaps when you and Ritch go out on a date.” Snow inadvertently looked at Ville who grinned. “I thought it was your style. I hope it fits.”
Mai began with uncertainty, trying to be nice in a most un-Mai like way, ”I’m sure it will Snow…thank you.”
”If you tried it on now, I could see if it needs some altering? I could do it for you right now.”
Ville masked a chuckle, and instead grinned like mad, “Yes Mai…why don’t you go and try it on now?”
Mai glared at Ville, then softened her gaze, “Well, then it wouldn’t be a surprise for anyone…now would it? I’ll try it on later and let you know. Thank you again, Snow.” She then wrapped the gift back in the paper and set it aside.
”Whad’ya get Mai?”
Mai looked up to see Ritch smiling at her and curiously looking toward the direction of the package.
Mai cleared her throat, “Oh nothing.”
Snow smirked, “You’ll find out later Ritch.”
Ritch wouldn’t take no for an answer, “No really…what is it? He lunged for the package and pulled out the dress. Mai moaned heavily.
”Hey, this is nice Snow.” Ritch inspected the garment approvingly.
”Thanks. I thought it might be nice for a date for you two.”
Ritch looked at Snow appreciatively, sensing the friction between them was now hopefully long gone. He then turned to Mai, ”You’re gonna wear this for me soon, right?”
”I…I don’t think so Ritch.”
Snow pouted, “You’re not?”
Ritch tutted, “Why not?”
Snow may have been naïve, but she wasn’t stupid, ”You don’t like it, do you Mai?”
Mai was annoyed at Snow’s sad face. Why did the child insist on being ‘best buddies’ again? It just wasn’t possible…not now, maybe not ever…not with the Mistress the way she was. “Look Snow…I’m sorry, but it just isn’t my style OK? Maybe you can wear it as lingerie…or something.”
”But it’s not my size…and I thought it looked like your style?”
”Well, you thought wrong.”
Ritch couldn’t stand it, ”Geeez, Mai. Have some tact. She just tried to make you a Christmas present for Christ’s sake! It’s Christmas! What’s wrong with you?”
Mai gave a fake smile and attempted to keep her voice at a minimum, “Nothing…Merry Christmas Ritch! And be sure and give my best wishes to your rugrats there, too.”
”You could do it yourself ya know.” Ritch said under his breath.
Mai gave him a ‘don’t start’ glare before tossing the dress onto the paper below, “Sorry for the scene Snow…” as she noticed all eyes in the room peering at her, “…seems it’s a habit of mine to make one. But I’m sure you can find a better use for your hard work than being ‘moth food’ in the bottom of my chest of drawers.” With that Mai walked out of the room.

Snow in WW: Chapter 229 -- The Gift

Snow tried not to be melancholy for the remainder of Christmas Day, despite how Mai s words had cut her. Her other Willows friends had showered she and Mike with gifts. Even Ophelia it appeared was trying to turn over a new leaf, being immensely kind, especially to Snow. Perhaps it was because she was realizing what the Mistress was truly capable of, after what happened to Mike and even Mai. Ophelia s gift to Snow was one of the most beautiful. She made Snow a straw sun hat, the brim covered in her own white horse wing feathers.

I fished them out of my old cave, she smiled as Snow looked amazed at the beautiful hat.

It s absolutely breathtaking Ophelia thank you. It will be perfect to keep the sun off my face while picking fruit in the orchard.

Ophelia nodded, That s what I was thinking. You have such fair skin I would hate to see it burned by the sun.

When Snow was out of earshot, Ophelia leaned over to Mike, It s good to see that SOME people still appreciate hand-made gifts. She then scowled as she looked in Mai s direction after the fuss the woman made about not wanting the dress Snow had made her.

Mike sadly nodded in approval, It s OK. We ll try and make the day up to her and I have yet to give her my gift. Mike then looked over at Ritch who winked back at him, knowing what was to come.

Hat! Little Anna had taken a big interest in the feather covered hat Snow had just opened.

Yes! It is! Snow took little Anna in her lap and let the toddler feel the soft feathers, And it s got feathers on it!

Fedas! the toddler tried to imitate the word. Snow giggled and kissed the little girl on the head. Mike looked on smiling as he pondered what Snow s reaction would be to his Christmas present to her later.

After the pumpkin pie and coffee had been served, some of the villagers ended the holiday with some carols, led by Snow. She missed her sister Lily not being there accompanying them with her gypsy instruments, but all in all, it had been a nice Christmas, despite the events earlier that day.

She and Mike gathered their Christmas gifts and headed back to their cabin. Mike was amused that they had no sooner had closed the door behind them than Snow was beaming like a schoolgirl, OK .I m ready for my present!

He chuckled. He d promised to give it to her later, whereas he had already opened his gift from her a hand-knitted blue sweater, which looked rather nice on him if he did say so himself.

Smirking, he went to the closet, OK but first you have to close your eyes.

Looking still like a little girl, Snow tightly shut her eyes. Mike pulled the gift from the closet as quietly as he could.

OK you can open them.

When Snow opened her eyes, she was in awe of the present before her. Mike was standing proudly over his latest creation a hand made cradle. It was of dark cherry wood and had very elaborate and detailed carvings of castles and coaches, of birds and trees and all of Snow s favorite things.

Ritch taught me how to carve the designs he s quite good at it, and a great teacher.

Oh Mike! Tears welled up in her eyes, It s the most beautiful thing ever!

Mike smiled and had to correct her there, No that would be you.

Snow smiled, still in awe of the baby cradle, It s even lovelier than the ones Ritch made for the twins.

Well, I don t know about that.

Well, I do! She ran her hand across the smooth detailed pictures, The pictures are just wonderful! It s so perfect! She threw her arms around him and kissed him, Thank you!

He hugged her tightly, Merry Christmas, Snow.

Merry Christmas, my Prince. So shall we have a try at filling this beautiful cradle? I couldn t bear to see it go to waste?

Snow in WW: Chapter 228 – “A New Year Coming”

The Christmas season was a jovial holiday season for the Willows, now that the poisoning was finally over and the village could get back to normal. It was traditional of course for the Willows to have a New Year’s Eve party. So for the last week, folks helped Mike with making the mead and the wine for the party, as well as hunting up a deer and gathering extra produce from their winter storage area. Snow had worn her new feather hat anytime it was sunny, and even when it wasn’t…which made Ophelia giggle, and Snow would simply throw her a cheeky, giddy smile. Snow didn’t have much contact with Mai after Christmas. She didn’t want to give up on her, really. Maybe New Year’s would be better…a social party was more Mai’s speed rather than wrapped gifts and decorated trees.
Snow gathered some decorations for New Year’s from her closet. As she did, she smiled at their newest piece of furniture that now lay in the corner handcrafted by her own beloved…a reminder to them how much they wanted a child in their future.

The night was fun and full of life and laughter. The music was lively and the conversation was flowing almost as much as the wine and ale. Mike took Snow onto the dance floor once he got a break from serving. The “master” of the boombox for the night was Travis. He knew Snow too well. To her delight a lovely waltz began to play and she and Mike tiptoed lightly around the floor.
”This melody must be quite old…they used it when my father taught me to dance in the castle. How did you learn to dance, darling?”
”My older sister taught me when I was sixteen. She thought it was time…I think she just wanted to practice. But it wasn’t too hard. We got on pretty well, my sis and I.”
Snow couldn’t help but catch glimpses of Mai and Ville laughing and drinking together as Mike whirled her round. She was concerned at how flirtatious Mai was with Ville, especially as they were both so liberal with their drink.
”Hey Mike! Are you cooking something? I smell something burning?”
”Oh crap! Sorry sweetie!” Immediately Mike released Snow and ran to rescue his burning finger foods. Snow slowly moved to a large chair by the wilting Christmas tree where she could see the whole room. She couldn’t help but her eyes darting over to Mai and Ville every once in a while…the two of them still chugging it down. She sighed. Snow felt sorry for Ritch most of all, something at one time she never thought she would do. With everything he had been through and then to finally be able to call Mai his own, and she’s no sooner appearing in another man’s company…and quite often at that. A “few too many” is just how Lily got into the mess she did. ‘You have to be careful with the stuff,’ thought Snow. She knew she and Mai hadn’t been on good terms as of late, which would prove that she had nothing to lose really by mentioning it, right? After all, at least Ritch was nice to her, and she didn’t want to see him get hurt…again. As Snow watched Ville walk away to no doubt fetch them another round, she took a deep breath…then headed over to talk to Mai.

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