Maggie sat in her third row center seat, hardly containing herself.  She had gone to lots of concerts, but when she went to see John Denver, she always felt special inside.

        She had rushed out to get tickets when she first heard he was going to perform at Market Square Arena in Indianapolis. Her secret dream was to perhaps meet him someday. She had no idea she would be sitting this close to him. Every time she went to his concerts, she had a funny feeling in the pit of her stomach.

       Maggie wished she had brought her many letters she had written, but was too shy to send. She always made sure she dressed her best, just in case by some miracle he may spot her in the audience. Tonight she chose a pair of jeans, a dark blue shirt and a light blue sweater.

        "Ladies & Gentlemen, John Denver!" a voice from a loudspeaker boomed. The fans roared as they jumped to their feet. She saw his shadowy form appear from the left side of the stage.

        Maggie couldn't believe she was actually sitting there. She wanted to pinch herself to make sure this wasn't some wonderful dream, but if it was, she never wanted to wake up. The lights flashed on and she could see how wonderful he looked.

        "Good evening, Hoosiers!"  He shouted as he reached for his guitar, his all to familiar grin grabbing at her heart. He wore a Hawaiian shirt with white slacks, and she noticed how well rested and tanned he looked.

        "Tonight I would like to do something a bit different, if you'll follow me. Do you guys remember old fashion hootenannies? They were real popular back in the late '60's, early '70's? Well by now, most of you know I do that on Fly Away* and some other songs of mine, but tonight, I want to do something a bit different, as I said before. Now don't get me wrong, I still want you guys to sing!" He said teasingly, "But I would like someone from the audience to come up on stage with me!"

        The response was overwhelming, the crowd loved it! Quickly hands were raised around the arena.

        "Although I would love it if all of you guys could come up, I can't because of time. Do I see any volunteers?" He asked laughing and grinning as he walked across the stage looking out at the sea of faces.

        Maggie's heart was pounding so hard she could feel it as she put one hand on her chest and raised the other, but quickly lowered it, thinking, even if he did call on her, she would be too embarrassed to go up.

        "How about you, Darlin'? The girl with the long brown hair sitting in the third row center, in the light blue sweater? Didn't I see your hand up?" John asked looking directly at her.

        Maggie looked around to see who he was speaking to and the girl beside her said, "He's talking to you!" She melted when she realized he had called her darlin'.

        Two security guards walked up and stood waiting by her seat. Maggie couldn't believe it, he was speaking to her!
"Come on up!" John beckoned with a wave of his hand, "Maybe she needs some encouragement, how about giving this pretty little lady a hand!"

        The audience stood up and applauded as she was escorted onto the stage. She was afraid her unsteady legs would buckle under her as she tried to steady herself.

        "What's your name? Are you from Indianapolis? Is anyone with you?" He asked as he winked at the audience and flashed hid famous grin. They responded with laughter and more applause.

        "My name is...Maggie Evan's....I'm from Nashville, Ind...," she began shyly.

        "Wait a minute, do you guys hear her way up there?" He asked the crowd pointing to the top bleachers, "Can you please speak a little louder, darlin', so the rest can hear you? Just calm down and take a deep breath, now isn't that better?" He asked, putting his arm around her waist. She did as he instructed, and repeated her name and where she was from. She also told him she was alone.

        "Are you ready to sing with me? Usually I have my band and three great backup singers, but on this tour I wanted to do solo performances. I can hear all you guys better! Ha! Ha! The first song I'd like to sing is Take Me Home, Country Roads*", he told the arena as he pulled two bars stools from the back of the stage, placed them in front, side by side and adjusted his microphone. The audience applauded once more as John seated Maggie and then himself. He began to play softly on his guitar, the music sounded so beautiful.

        "Almost Heaven, West Virginia.." John began to sing and then stopped, looked over at Maggie and said, "Do you people hear her? I don't and she's sitting right next to me! Just close your eyes tonight, hey nice title for a song, don't you think?" He kidded her trying to put her more at ease. "Anyway, just pretend you're back in Nashville and you're listening to this song on a tape or c.d. Can you do that for me?" He gently reached over and gave her a hug, she nodded.

        "I'll try," she replied nervously as she felt his arm around her. She could smell his masculine cologne filling the air with his essence. He released her and started playing again. She took a deep breath and closed her eyes. His voice was right next to her ear, almost encouraging her to sing along, and sing she did but all to soon her song was over.

        "You sing real good, doesn't she?!" John asked the audience and then turned to Maggie, who had opened her eyes. Again there were cheers and thunderous applause. He bent over and kissed her cheek and squeezed her hand, as she blushed. She got up to leave, but he asked her to sit back down.

        "Before you rush off, I would like to sing a favorite song of mine to you, it's called My Sweet Lady*," he said as he started strumming his guitar.

        She couldn't believe it, although the song was somewhat older than his newest releases it was the one she loved the must..
John's voice sounded so sweet to her ears, that she had tears in her eyes. For nineteen years she had only dared to dream this would happen, now her dream had come true. She savored every note, wishing this night would never end.

        "Thank you so much for sharing this song with me, Maggie. Maybe we can meet again someday," he bent over whispering to her like a soft breeze as he gently kissed her cheek and brushed away a tear that had formed.

        "John," she began, trying to find enough courage to tell him how she felt, "I want to thank you for all of the beautiful music you have written and sung throughout the years. I have loved your music for nineteen years and each song you write gets better. I also wanted to tell you I believe in your causes such as banning nuclear weapons, helping the environment and helping the hungry. I'm sure I'm speaking for a lot of people when I say this. Again, we all thank you." She leaned over and kissed him on the cheek. She blushed as her face turned a deep shade of crimson. The fans went wild as they stood and applauded. John was the one who became speechless this time. Maggie had moved him deeply. He felt differently about this lady, differently in a way he hadn't felt in a long time. He wanted to gaze into her beautiful green eyes and spend time with her, but of course, knew this to be an impossible dream. He longed to keep her on stage, but knew he couldn't.

        "Thank you," was all he could manage to say as he helped her to the edge of the stage, the audience still applauding.
The rest of the concert consisted of old favorites like Grandma's Feather Bed*, Annie's Song*, Fly Away* and Don't Close Your Eyes Tonight * (with a beautifully done video and soundtrack). There was a fifteen minute intermission, but Maggie decided to remain in her seat. there would be time for buying merchandise later.

        After John returned, she noticed he had changed into different clothes, this time he wore a short sleeved, multicolored silk shirt and black slacks. He played lighter music like Forest Lawn* and Saturday Night In Toledo Ohio*. All the time trying to put Maggie out of his mind. She felt it too, trying not to meet his gaze, but finding it extremely difficult as the night wore on.
"Before I go, I would like to change to more serious music, but first, I would ask that you all give a moment of silence, whether it be prayer or thought, for the seven brave men and woman who gave up their lives in the Challenger disaster," John asked bowing his head as a silence fell across the huge sold out arena of 2,200 people. After a few moments, he continued, "I feel theses are two songs are the best I've ever written, they are Flying For Me*, as you all may know, I love flying. It is one of my few passions, right up there with my music, fishing and golf. I watched all the launches & even was slated to ride in a shuttle, the Challenger. But the President decided to send a teacher instead. The second song is called Let Us Begin (What Are We Making Weapons For?*. This song is about two things, one being against nuclear weapons and also the struggles that our farmers are facing by big corporate American industries stomping the small farmers out of their land by foreclosure. I'm telling you people these things must be stopped! We can't continue this way!" John spoke with so much conviction. The audience roared with applause and a standing ovation. After a few moments they all sat back down and John continued. " I met a singer named Alexander Gradsky in Moscow the last time I went to the Soviet Union, he spoke no English. Through an interrupter I asked him to do this video with me and this is how it turned out. I would like to sing both songs with videos and soundtracks , to do them justice."

        John sang with so much compassion, Maggie wept openly as she watched the videos, seeing the crew of Challenger smiling and waving as they boarded their ill fated spacecraft. She saw the horrors of war, literally ripping families apart and of the American farmer who struggles everyday to keep his land. John notice her tears and sang his finest.

        Of course, no John Denver concert would be complete without a last standing ovation, which never failed to 'bring the house down'. He thanked the audience, said good night and exited the right side of the stage, only to reappear a few seconds later. The audience exploded with even still louder applause, by now most of his fans knew the familiar routine of his running backstage, touching the wall and coming back out before the applause died down. He picked up his guitar and sang It's About Time*, Amazon* and ended the show with The Peace Poem*. He bowed and with a wave shouted, "God Bless everybody and good night!"

        After he left the stage the lights came on and the all so familiar song, Take Me Home, Country Roads*, came softly playing over the loudspeakers. Maggie felt sad because the almost three and a half hour concert was over. She suddenly remembered something as she reached in her coat pocket to get her car keys and felt a small autograph book. A friend of hers wanted to come but a case of the flu prevented her. She had pleaded with Maggie to try and get John's autograph. She knew he hated giving them, but she couldn't tell her friend no.

        She remembered how to get to the dressing rooms, but she had no idea how to get passed the guards. When she arrived, there was already a crowd forming around John's dressing room. she almost turned around to walk away, when suddenly the door opened. She had been shoved by someone and found herself in front of a burly guard that had just came out of John's room. She had to think fast.

        "I'm sorry sir, I must had tripped or something, please excuse me. My name is Maggie Evans," she started, hoping he hadn't noticed the tremble in her voice as she spoke, continuing she said, "I'm a close friend of Henry John and his family, as a matter of fact, his mother, Erma, and my mother went to school, tenth grade, I believe. They were very close, when they grew up and got married, they lived next door to each other. Henry John, his brother, Ron Lee and I used to play together, I must have lost my pass. If you don't believe me ask Henry John yourself."

        Maggie wasn't in the habit of lying ,but she couldn't help herself. She hoped beyond hope that he would see her. But she knew that there was not much chance. She had no idea how much, if anything this guard knew about John and that his family moved a lot because of his dad having been in the Air Force.

        "Huh!" was all the guard said as he turned around and went back into the room. It seemed like hours as she waited. A few people who had backstage passes were allowed to see John but the others were told to leave. Her heart fell as she turned to go. She started to walk slowly down the hallway towards the entrance. She jumped as she felt a hand on her shoulder. She turned around and saw the same guard that had watched John's door.

        "Follow me," again was all the guard said, and Maggie did as she was told, not daring to believe her good fortune. The guard towered over her, hiding easily behind him. Her heart started to race at the aspect of seeing John again. He had believed her corny story, but why? As she entered the room she saw him seated on a pale brown sofa. He had showered and changed into a light blue T-shirt that said, 'Love Your Mother', with a picture of the Earth, he has also put on jeans. She noticed the fans were gone and there were only a few men and women with tape recorders who she imagined were from the Press. They were seated on folding chairs surrounding John. He grinned when he saw her, bringing to mind a mischievous little boy.

        "Ladies and Gentlemen, I want to introduce you all to a dear family friend. We used to play together when we were kids," he said as he watched Maggie blush. He got up and walked over to her, putting his arm around her waist.

        "Very original!" He whispered into her ear, she could feel herself getting warmer as her face turned an even darker shade of crimson. He lead her over to the sofa, helping her remove her sweater making sure she was comfortable, sitting down beside her.

        "I'm sorry you had to wait, but with these fans and such.... I hope you'll forgive me, these reporters want to do a story on me for their newspapers. As soon as that's done we can talk," he apologized bending over, whispering in her ear. "We're almost finished. Sometimes I wish I wasn't so well known. I also must confess, I wasn't sure you were the same lady who was up on stage with me, but when Mike described you and he told me your story, I must say, I was a bit curious. You wouldn't believe the people who try to get passed my bodyguards! I realized my fans like my music, but since John Lennon's death, you have to be real careful. I really don't want to hurt anyone, but I need space for myself sometimes too".

        "I really should leave, you look tired. I didn't mean to disturb you." She said starting to stand.

        "No, I don't want you to leave, please stay. I'll only be a few minutes with these guys and then we can talk." He motioned for her to sit back down. Then he turned his attention back to the reporters.

        The interview continued with the usual questions about his divorce from Annie, his breakup with R.C.A., where his next concert was going to be, etc. She looked around the room as the reporters conducted the informal questions and answer period. Besides the sofa and folding chairs, she noticed two pale brown big overstuffed chairs with low backs, a coffee table and a stereo with a c.d. player.

        Then someone asked about the trips to China and the Soviet Union. How were the people over there, when was he planning a return visit? Did he think both countries really want peace? She grew interested in this line of questioning, but kept silent, she knew how John felt about these subjects. She also knew how some newspapers twisted things around to make more money. He also realized this and before the interview was finished, he cautioned the reporters to print exactly what he said. After the interview was finished and the reporters were gone, he felt more at ease, but she could feel some tenseness in him.

        "Wait a minute, John. Please come over here and sit in this chair." She said getting up and walking over to one of the low back chairs. He started to protest, but thought better of it. He did as she instructed, wondering what she was up to. She told him to sit back and relax.

        "Close your eyes," Maggie instructed massaging his temples. Usually she was painfully shy and she couldn't believe she was actually doing this, but somehow she felt it was right.

        "It's about time someone did something for you. I do this for my father, don't you feel better?" She asked as she felt the tension leave his body.

        "Yes, this feels fantastic! I haven't has someone do this since Annie and I ...". his voice trailed off, "thank you."

        He got up and went over to the c.d. player, put on some soft rock music of various artists, mostly early Beatles and Paul McCartney, but none of his own. Maggie felt sad about bringing memories of his marriage back.

        "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to upset you," she said softly.

        "That's all right, it's just little things like that... forget it. I have to be going to my hotel in a few minutes, would you like to join me? We could talk some more there," John asked as he picked up the phone and dialed his limo driver to pull the limo around, trying to change the subject. Although Annie and he remained friends after their divorce, sometimes he would think of little things she would do and feel melancholy.

        "I don't know, it's getting late and I don't like to drive too late at night. I hadn't planned on staying overnight anywhere, I don't know if I can find a room this late." She said, wishing again this night would never end.

        "No problem, you can stay with me. there's plenty of room in my hotel suite. I'd really like to be with you, just to talk. I mean." he said cupping his hand over the mouthpiece, waiting for Maggie's answer.

        "I'd like that, but are you sure? I would like to get to know you better also, not as a star, but as a person," Maggie said, her nervousness almost completely gone. John had a way of putting people at ease, but Maggie had heard rumors about his playboy image and she didn't want any part of that, but something told her she would be all right. "I'll have to call my parents, they will be worried if I don't."

        "It's settled then, George are there any fans still around," he asked someone on the other end of the line, "a few? That's O.K., all right, thanks. There will be a young lady joining me." He hung up and told Maggie that she could use the phone while he took care of some business in another room. Maggie called her parents and told them she had decided to stay in town with a friend. She thought it best not to go into details, afraid they would be upset although she was sure John would be a perfect gentleman. A few minutes later he joined her.

        "Do you mind if I talk with some of my fans? There are a few waiting around the car. I usually don't do this, give out autographs. I mean, how much do you know a person just from his signature? I really want to get to know that person. I don't mind tonight though because I'll have a chance to talk with them, there's only about a dozen or so," he said picking up some papers and escorting her out the door and down the hallway, his bodyguard falling in step behind them, just in case there happened to be an obsessed fan. The hallway was empty.

        When they reached the 'car', Maggie discovered it was a white limousine complete with chauffeur! This was all so new to her and John noticed the look of surprise on her face, again he grinned.

        There were about between twelve to fifteen fans, she estimated with pens and something to write on. When they saw John, they all started cheering. The security guards did their best to try to control the crowd but because there were only two guards that had remained, their efforts were of little use. John asked the crowd to quite down and he would talk to them and sign a few autographs. The fans cooperated and he answered as many questions as he could. Maggie noticed how friendly he was with the fans and how he had them 'eating out of his hand', so to speak. Soon he was signing autographs and laughing with the group, but soon he waved and wished everyone a good night. He went around the limousine and opened the door for her, even before the driver could reach it. She got inside and John followed. She hoped she wouldn't fall asleep on the way to the
hotel, she was exhausted but happy. She felt like a princess and he was her prince.

        "Would you like a signed photograph, darlin', I just happen to have a couple left?" He asked, breaking into her thoughts. She noticed that he was holding them out to her. She wanted one but she was afraid he might think she was like all the rest, wanting something from him.

        "I don't want you to think I'm here because I want anything," Maggie said , shifting uneasily in her seat, she had remember the autograph book of her friend's but decided not to ask him to sign it. She hoped the darkness hid her embarrassment. John insisted, so she agreed. He put them in her lap and switched on a small side light.

        "I'll write a special message on this one for a friend, if you like, but first I'll write on this one for you," he said thoughtfully as he took out a pen and began to write. She was curious as to see what he was writing, but didn't lean over to watch.
After he had finished with hers, he placed the photograph on her lap, and then asked her what friend she wanted to have the picture. She told him that her friend had wanted to come to the concert but had came down with the flu. So she would like to have one for her friend Susan. After he had written a short message, he laid the picture on her lap on top of hers.

      "I feel comfortable around you, I feel you're special, darlin'. I know this may sound like a line, but I haven't felt this way in a long time. I don't think you want anything from me. I know you've probably heard about my drinking a little too much, or my eye for the ladies, I don't know why I do that, maybe it's because I want to escape or something. I don't think you want anything from me. I knew that the moment I saw you. I can't explain why, I just knew." John said putting his hand over hers. She felt as if she were beginning to understand. The reason she was nervous at first was because she, herself, had thought, like a lot of other fans, he was a star. He's not human, he has no weakness, but the short time they had been together, she had begun to see how real John really was. She nodded understanding and he put his arm around her, Maggie responded by resting her head on his shoulder.

        The limo pulled quietly up to the Hyatt Regency, one of Indianapolis most elegant hotels. She had closed her eyes and John gently whispered her name. She had never been inside a big hotel, the biggest one she had ever been in was a hotel with four floors. This was huge! She wasn't sure what to expect. The chauffeur got out and opened her door. Maggie got out and waited for John to join her. He got out and escorted her through the lobby.

        She couldn't get over how grand everything was, there was a huge chandelier that graced the foyer and the carpets were a rich burgundy velvet, she almost forgot this wasn't a dream. Even though it was late she could see a few people scurrying around that she assumed were employees.

        "You haven't said much since we arrived, are you all right?" John asked as they entered a elevator, putting his arm protectively around her. She nodded and leaned against his chest.

        "I'm just so overwhelmed by all this. I've never been in such a grand hotel before!" She said looking up at him. He smiled at her and thought to himself, how much she was like a small child, discovering the World for the first time.

        "Would you like something from room service?" He asked as the elevator stopped at the penthouse and the doors opened to reveal the must beautiful room she could ever have imagined. There was a huge living room complete with a fireplace, a mauve sofa and matching chair. Shag mauve carpeting, so plush she almost wanted to take off her shoes and running her toes deep into it, a coffee table with a stack of papers neatly stacked on top, a dinning room table and chairs with a huge basket of daisies and a kitchen complete with wet bar. She also noticed two doors down a corridor that she assumed were bedrooms. she walked over to the huge picture window displaying the city lights below. There was a full moon and it shone down illuminating everything it touched. If she could have one wish, it would never to leave.

        "Maggie? Maggie?" John asked, interrupting her thoughts.

        "What? Oh, I'm sorry, this is just so beautiful. I feel like I'm dreaming!" She said, almost giggling. John gave her a bear hug and laughed at her.

        "Well tonight can be our special dream," he said releasing her and grabbing her hand, leading her to the sofa.

        "Now how about a late supper, do you want anything?" He asked picking up the phone.

        "Whatever you order is fine with me," she said seating herself on the sofa while he spoke on the phone. She knew he was into macrobiotics, and had no idea what he would order, only hoping it wouldn't be too strange.

        "Room service? Yes, would you please bring up a couple of orders of tacos, some guacamole salad and some chocolate ice cream for later, enough for two?" John put his hand over the mouthpiece and winked at Maggie. "Did you know I love chocolate? It's one of my vises, so are homemade chocolate chip cookies. I guess perhaps, you might call me the original Cookie Monster!" He grinned, as he turned his attention back to the phone, "We just got here, are there any sodas in the fridge? Great, then you can bring up the ice cream later. I'll let you know when, thank you."

        She couldn't believe what he had just ordered! She loved Mexican food also, but didn't get to eat much of it because most of her friends didn't like it, they preferred burgers & fries. She never had to worry about her weight, petite women ran in her family.

        Maggie had always considered herself plain, not pretty at all. She had always been shy and when she became old enough to date and she was asked out, she always politely declined, soon the guys stopped asking her. The few friends she had, consisted of people she worked with. She seemed to get along well with children. She couldn't believe she was doing the things she was tonight. She still couldn't understand the attraction John had towards her.

        "By the way, may I show you something?" He asked almost startling her. He stood up took her hand in his, then led her down a corridor she had seen earlier. They stopped at a door. He instructed her to close her eyes as he opened it. He told her after they entered the room, she could open them. She was breathless, just as she thought she had seen enough wonderful things tonight, she was wrong. She saw a bedroom filled with flowers! All varieties, some blue daisies sat on the night stand beside a white four poster bed with a blue satin comforter on it, the covers turned down to reveal a matching blue silk sheet. There were blue roses sitting on another table and some mums had been placed on stands surrounding the room. They were arranged so not to crowd the beauty of the room, but instead to enhance it.

        "I hope I didn't over do the flowers. This is where you'll be spending the night, my room is just down the hall, if you need anything. I hope you don't mind but I thought one of my T-shirts would do for a nightshirt. The hotel gift shop was closed so I couldn't get you anything to sleep in. I'll be right back," he said and before she could turn around and thank him, he had disappeared.

        Maggie noticed that even the lights cast a soft blue hue around the room. It was the most beautiful room she had ever seen and she started to cry, she couldn't believe all this was happening to her.

        She was so engrossed in the room, she didn't hear John come in and jumped when he touched her gently on the shoulder. She quickly wiped the tears away.

        "What's the matter darlin'? You don't like it?' He asked, wiping away more tears from her eyes, " I'm sorry, it's just my favorite color is blue and you look like you should be surrounded by beautiful flowers . Here is the T-shirt I promised you," John said, handing her the shirt.

        "Thank you. Please don't apologize, I love the room and my favorite color is blue. I'm just so touch by your thoughtfulness. No one has ever given me flowers before, let alone a whole roomful! When did you do all of these?" She asked as John helped her dry more tears from her eyes, " I doubt, however, even though, I'm exhausted, I could sleep on that bed. I've never been to a place like this! I don't think I could sleep a wink!"

        John just laughed and put his arms around her, he liked her a lot, she reminded him of Annie when they were young. She was like a breath of fresh air. The night was ebbing away and soon he would have to be leaving, if only they had more time! He wanted to get to know this lovely woman better.

        A buzzer sounded to disturb his thoughts and told Maggie it must be room service, and he went to answer it. Maggie followed him out of the room, after she laid the T-shirt on the bed, but stood in the hallway. A waiter pushed a cart into the room. John gave the man a huge tip and thanked him.

        "Please Mr. Denver, I don't want your tip. If you could please give my son an autograph, he would be thrilled," the waiter said looking away, slightly embarrassed.

        "All right, just for you and your son, I'll be glad to. How old is your son?" John asked reaching for a pen on the coffee table.

        "He'll be seven his next birthday... He sure loves your music, his favorite song is Grandma's Feather Bed*. He told me he wants to be just like you when he grows up. My wife and I like your music as well and the causes that you support. We want to raise our son in a clean, safe world, free from hunger," the waiter said handing John a scrap piece of paper, "I'm afraid this is all I could find to write on. His name is Jeremy."

        "Do you think Jeremy would mind if I gave him a picture of me, instead?" John asked as he searched on the table for one, the pile of neatly stacked papers became scattered. He spotted a photograph and quickly wrote a message on it. The waiter was grinning broadly as John handed it to him. He wrote, 'To Jeremy, a far away friend of mine. May you always follow your dreams and your heart no matter where they take you. Perhaps some day I'll be able to come to one of YOUR concerts. Peace, John" As he wrote, he couldn't help but remember his own children.

        John reached into his pocket and handed the man the hundred dollar bill he had offered earlier. The waiter had tears of gratitude as he thanked him over and over again. He had moved his family to Indiana a few weeks ago and this was his first night working at the hotel. Before that he couldn't find work and they had been forced to live off of the small savings they had managed to put aside. He wasn't suppose to disturb the guests, but he just had to do this for his son. His luck was finally turning good for him and his loved ones.

        Maggie had overheard the conversation between the two men and she was touched by John's kindness. After the waiter had left, she joined John who escorted her to the dining room table and seated her. He told her how pleased he was she was with him and that he wished they had more time together. They ate and laughed at each other as they tried to be careful eating their tacos. The guacamole salad with chips, was the best she had ever tasted. John went to the kitchen and poured two glasses of sodas and asked if she was ready for desert. Maggie declined saying she couldn't eat another bite. He decided to call room service and canceled the ice cream, whispering to her he thought it was a good idea at the time.

        After they finished, he asked her to come over to the sofa, that he wanted to show her something. They sat down and he picked up what appeared to be a remote control. He aimed it at the fireplace and within seconds the fire was lit.

        "Oh, the wonders of modern technology! We never started a fire like this back home!" He exclaimed with a wink and a laugh. Maggie loved to hear him laugh, she felt so good being here with him.

        They sat down and John put his arm around her shoulder. He played with strands of long golden brown hair absent-mindedly. She leaned her head against his shoulder, watching the flames leap and pop from the fireplace. It was only a few hours ago that she was so timid and shy around him, but now she felt as if they'd known each other forever.

        "You know, I'm not so different from any other guy," he began, "I have my hopes and dreams for the future. I may have a little more money, but that's all. I was very insecure when I was younger, I recently have overcome it, to some degree. But sure, I worry about things, maybe not about where my next meal is coming from, but rather., my neighbor, where his and his family's meals are coming from. Or, if indeed, they are coming at all. I worry about the environment and how our children are going to take care of it.... Sometimes I feel like nothing is going right in my life, but tonight, here with you, I have a positive outlook....

        Enough about me, how 'bout you? Tell me all there is to know about Maggie Evans. Do you have a boyfriend, who, if he found out about this, would just love to strangle me? Where did you grow up? How old are you? Where on earth did you get this marvelous hair and those beautiful green eyes??!" He smiled as he ran his hand through her hair.

        "There's really nothing to tell. I was born in Nashville, Indiana. I went to Brown County High School and graduated in 1971. I am an only child and live with my parents. I'm thirty two and never been married and no, I don't have a boyfriend, you're safe! The hair & eyes I inherited from my mother's side of the family. I love the outdoors, taking photographs of sunrises and sunsets. I've never been anywhere, but someday I would love to visit Colorado. Through your music, I can almost imagine the Rockies and their splendor. I have been a fan of your since the late sixties. I don't know what I would have done if it hadn't been your music to get me through some hard times. Your words spoke to me, to my heart, and into my soul. I don't know what else there is to say, that's 'bout it," Maggie said, closing her eyes, feeling warm and peaceful inside.

        John leaned over and softly kissed her. She jumped in surprise as his lips touched hers. He quickly explained, "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to startle you, please forgive me. You looked so beautiful, I couldn't resist," he blushed. Maggie's face was burning with embarrassment too. They started laughing until they had tears in their eyes.

        Suddenly John stopped laughing and looked deep into her eyes. She returned his gaze. He kissed her again, this time gently but firmly that shocked both of them.

        Maggie trembled as she felt his strong arms encircling her. She had never felt this way and it frightened her. She was afraid that she may have fallen in love for the first time. This couldn't happen, they were worlds apart, sure they shared the same ideas, but they were still different. She also didn't know how he felt. She pulled away and John looked at her, not knowing what to say. He searched her eyes, wondering if she felt the same. He saw it and was an unspoken bond between them.

        "We'd better turn in, it's getting late and soon it will be morning," he said, pulling her to her feet, his eyes never leaving hers.

        "Yes, you're right," Maggie agreed, following him down the hall. They stopped outside her room.

        "Good night, Maggie . If you need anything, just call me. I can hear you," John said, afraid to kiss her again, for fear if he did, where that might lead. He wanted to treat her like a lady.

        "Good night, John," she said softly, opening her door, stepping inside and closing it. Maggie leaned against her door for a few seconds and closed her eyes. She was happy, but sad at the same time, happy because she knew from his eyes, he cared for her, but also sad, because he was leaving in a few short hours. She picked up the T-shirt he had given her to wear, she could almost smell his cologne as she quickly changed into it. At least she would treasure this special night forever. She slid into bed and drifted off to sleep with the sweet taste of his kiss still on her lips. She dreamed of the two of them making love.
John found it more difficult to fall asleep. He tossed and turned thinking of Maggie and how he could possibly leave her. He dreamt of holding her in his arms and tenderly make love with her. He knew he had fallen in love again. Finally, exhausted he fell asleep.

        As the sun rose and the day began to turn a beautiful Spring day, Maggie woke up and walked into the living room, first throwing a bathrobe around her. She rubbed her tired eyes and didn't notice John until she heard him talking on the phone to someone. He was sitting with his back towards her, he had already showered and shaved. He was dressed in a light beige shirt with gray slacks.

        "I don't care what it takes Ron, I've found this wonderful lady that I have fallen in love with," she heard John say to someone, "Yes, I'm sure damn it! I didn't think it would happen again, but it has......Thanks Ron." Maggie realized it was John's brother who he had been talking with. As he replaced the receiver on the phone, John turned around and saw her. He noticed she had found his bathrobe and put it on. She had no shoes or makeup and a few strands of stray hair strung loosely across her forehead. She reminded him of a little girl and his heart melted.

        "Good mornin' sleepy head," John said, getting up and crossing the room to take her hands. He laughed, "I'm sorry, but my bathrobe never looked so good! Seriously, I couldn't sleep at all last night, because," he began, looking into her eyes, " I was thinking of you and what happened between us, Maggie, I love you," He said, embracing her and kissing her gently. She swung her arms up around his neck, stood on her tip toes and returned his kiss.

        "I love you too," she said as tears sprang into her eyes, she looked at him. He brushed the strands of loose hair away from her face as he kissed her again.

        "I've just been on the phone with my brother Ron. I asked him to set up an arrangement so you could travel with me on the rest of my tour, or, if you like, you could wait until I'm done with my tour. I just don't want to lose you," he said gazing into her eyes.

        Maggie felt as if she were in a dream. John had actually declared his love for her! Her head was reeling with excitement. She loved him too, but she didn't know what to do. Her family was here and she knew they wouldn't approve of her traveling around the world with a man she hardly knew, but he needed an answer and he needed it now!

        "John, although I love you, I need more time. I have never done anything like this before and I'm scared. Let me go home and talk with my parents and I'll join you later. Where is your next concert? And when?" She asked him, hoping he would understand.

        "All right, I understand , but I don't ever want to leave you again. My next stop is Dayton tomorrow night. I'll send my private jet to pick you up. Is there an airport near Nashville, big enough to land a lear jet?" John asked her, not really wanting to let her go.

        "Yes, the Monroe County Airport is in Bloomington," she told him as he released her.

        "I'll have someone take you to your car, so you can go home and think about what I said. Maggie, I really want you with me," he said, hoping she would change her mind and follow him. I'll also have someone meet you tomorrow morning and take you to the airport, all right?

        I realize you didn't intend to spend the night last night, so I found these for you to wear. As I said before, my bathrobe never looked so good!" John told her, grinning broadly. She could feel herself blushing and wished she could stop. She quickly took the bundle of clothing he handed her and ran to her room to get showered and dressed. For the first time she noticed the sweatsuit. It was a deep rich green with the words "mother" on the shirt with a picture of the earth. She hurried to shower and dress. She found a brush and ribbons on the dresser. John had thought of everything.

        In a few minutes she returned. Her hair was pulled back and she wore little makeup, just enough to add color to her cheeks and lips.

        John's eyes lit up when he saw her, "Wow! My old sweats look fantastic on you!"

        Maggie blushed, making her cheeks even brighter, he laughed as he hugged and kissed her.

        "Perhaps that's the reason I fell in love with you. You don't find many girls that blush anymore." She could feel the redness creep up the back of her neck. She wished again she wouldn't blush so easily.

        "John," she said, trying to change the subject, "I would like to go to the airport with you, if that's all right. May I? Could someone drive me back to my car after you leave?" She asked as she began gathering up her belongings.

        "Here's your shirt," She said handing it to him without looking as she made sure she had everything.

        "Keep it. I'm sure you'll be wearing more of my T-shirts once we're married," he said looking at her with a twinkle in his eyes.

        Maggie almost dropped everything she had gathered. She couldn't believe her ears.

        "Wha...what did you say?" She asked spinning around and looking at him to see if he was kidding her.

        "Maybe I should do this right. Maggie Evans, I love you. God has sent you to me so that I wouldn't ever be lonely again. When I asked you to go with me, I meant as my wife. Will you marry me?" He took her things out of her arms, threw them on the sofa and embraced her. Maggie had tears of joy running down her cheeks.

        "Yes, oh yes! I'll marry you!" She exclaimed, melting into his arms. John wiped away her tears and kissed her as if he would never see her again. She responded as well.

        John found an overnight case and gave it to Maggie to put her things in, then he carried it to the waiting limo. He instructed his chauffeur to go to a private airport about five miles away from Indianapolis International. On the way, he told her he would like to be married on a mountaintop near his Aspen home. He told her that, if she agreed, they would only invite their closest friends and family, because of publicity. She nodded understanding. He told his chauffeur to take her back to her car after he left.

        They arrived at a private airport. John explained, as they pulled onto the field, he usually used such airports because there was much less chance of crowds. The limo stopped and the driver got out to open Maggie's door. Then opened the trunk to get John's luggage. The rest was already loaded on board the jet.

        "This is my private jet, it's called Windstar. I'll pick you up tomorrow and take you to Dayton," John told Maggie, standing beside her, holding her hand as they walked over to the plane. They kissed and she saw him climb the steps and disappear into the aircraft.

        Maggie walked towards the terminal, and turned to wave at John as the engines revved up. Sunddenly a car came out of nowhere, veered wildly and headed straight towards her. Before she could move, it struck her, flinging her into the air like a limp rag doll. The car never stopped.

        John observed what had just happened from his window and phoned his pilot, instructing him to shut down immediately.
As the pilot cut the engines and the hatch opened, John almost leaped out before the ladder could be lowered. He was blinded by tears as he ran towards Maggie. She was lying in her own pool of blood that was beginning to form. He knelt and gently cradled her and shouted for someone to call an ambulance as people came rushing to help. "They had already been called and on their way," someone shouted.

        Maggie opened her eyes a little and tried to speak. Her face was bruised and one arm appeared to be broken. She coughed and some blood trickled down her chin. The ambulance arrived and John let them take her from him.

        As they prepared to take her to a nearby hospital, John found Maggie's purse. He searched for her wallet, trying to find an emergency number. He found it and saw her parents names and numbers listed.

        "We're ready to leave Mr. Denver. Would you like to ride with us? She keeps calling out your name," one of the paramedics asked.

        "Yes, I would....thank you...Oh God, why?" was all he could manage to say. John rode in back with Maggie, holding her hand and stroking her hair. She had been given oxygen to help her breath. John had overheard one of the paramedics say that they thought she was bleeding internally.

        After they arrived at the hospital, as they were rushing Maggie to an examing room, John found a phone and called her parents. He informed them who he was and a brief description of the accident. He explained what hospital they were at. Maggie's father told him they were on their way. John sat in the emergency waiting room, thankful no one recognized him, or if they did, that they knew he wanted to be in solitude.

        Minutes seemed like hours in that little hospital. Doctors came and went from the room they had taken Maggie. As he was waiting, he roamed the halls finding the hospital chapel and went in to pray. He sat down on a pew and asked God to spare his beloved Maggie, tears streaming down his face, trying to reason why this terrible thing had to happen. He grew up having been taught that God did things for a reason but this horrible thing he couldn't understand. Why had God sent Maggie to him and then cruelly let this accident happen?

        A nurse found him and told him the doctors who examined Maggie were through and her doctor wanted to see him. He regained his composer and followed her to where a woman in a white lab coat stood.

        "Mr. Denver, my name is Debbie Nate, I'm the doctor in charge of Maggie. My colleges and I examined her and I'm afraid it doesn't look good. First of all, the car that hit her caused severe damage. She's lost alot of blood, which we're replacing, she has internal bleeding. She has a broken arm and some broken ribs, one which has punctured a small hole in her spleen, causing it to tear. We are getting ready to take her to surgery, but with her weaken condition, there's little chance she will survive. You may go in and see her but only for a few minutes." She said patting his arm and giving him a sympathetic look.

        A nurse took him to Maggie room. He quietly slipped into it. There was a soft light above her bed. He stepped closer and almost didn't recognize her. She looked so small and frail. All the color had been drained from her face. She had tubes and needles extending from one of her arms and a cast on the other. John heard the low din of the machines as they pumped the precious fluids into her body to help her live. Her beautiful hair was all matted from the accident. He wished it was him lying there instead of her. He walked over and stood beside her bed.

        She called out to him in almost a whisper, "John...is that you? I don't want to be here, I want to be with you." She started crying. John's heart was breaking, he held back tears that threatened to make their way into his eyes. In a trembling voice said, "Maggie, darlin', it's me, John. I'm here beside you, don't worry I will never leave you."

        He reached out and stroked her hair, brushing it away from her face. He found a chair and moved it beside her bed.
They hadn't been together for long, but he would move mountains for his lady. It just wasn't fair that she should be taken from him.

        There was a soft knock at the door and two people walked in. John could tell right away that they were Maggie's parents. He stood and led them down a hallway, away from her. He explained about the accident and her condition. They hadn't talked to her doctor yet. John told them if there was anything he could do, all they had to do was ask. They thanked him for his kindness.

        Suddenly there was screams coming from Maggie's room. They quickly ran back and opened the door and saw her fighting with a nurse. She had somehow managed to pull her mask off and was vainly trying to pull out her I.V.

        "What's going on in here?" John demanded to know.

        "She keeps trying to pull out her I.V. I came back in here to see how she was doing and caught her doing this," the nurse said, still struggling with her.

        "It all right nurse, I'll handle it from here. Maggie...Maggie listen to me, it's John. Stop this, you're going to hurt yourself. Your mom and dad came to see you," John said walking over to her and gently quieted her down. He was amazed she had the strength to fight.

        "Hi Baby...it's me...Daddy. Looks like you got all banged up. We'll get you fixed up in no time. Right, Mom?" Mr. Evans said, trying not to show his true emotions.

        "Hi, darling...it's me, Mom. Mr. Denver called us and we came just as soon as we could...we love you," Mrs. Evans said, turning away from Maggie hoping she didn't see the tears that were clouding her eyes.

        "Hi...Mom..Dad...I'm sorry you had..to see me..like this..I ..love..you both.....John,..would you.... sing to me...a...song...please?" Maggie managed to say nearly exhausted from her ordeal.

        He looked at the nurse, who started to protest saying that they would be in to get Maggie ready any minute. She looked at John, Maggie and her parents. She finally said she would see what she could do about getting it cleared by Maggie's doctor. She left the room and returned a few minutes later with a guitar. One glance at Maggie, told her that she was slipping fast.

        "I found this in the Children's wings, Mr. Denver. Hope it's tuned." The nurse handed the guitar to John, as she too had tears in her eyes.

        "I'm going to die...aren't I...John?" Maggie's eyes searching his for the truth. He couldn't answer her, instead he looked away. Her parents wept as they held each other. John felt the pain they were experiencing, he too was in pain. Pain for
something that was never to be.

        The nurse was right, the guitar did need tuning, but with John's capable hands, it was ready in no time and he began softly playing, he sat down beside Maggie's bed and asked her as he whispered in her ear, "What do you want me to play, darlin'?"
She grew weaker by the minute, each breath labored. She coughed and then spoke softly," The one...you sang..last night...to me..My..Sweet..Lady..."

        John sang so tenderly that it brought tears to all who listened. Tears began to fall and his voice cracked with emotion as he watched her close her beautiful eyes, her long lashes resting upon her cheeks.

        When he finished his song, he bent down and kissed her, telling her he loved her. She whispered, "Remember...that ...will...be ...our...song...forever,...I...love...you.."

        The machine she had been hooked up to sounded a deathly beep, and a solid line appeared across the screen, The nurse paged Maggie's doctor who ran into the room and tried to perform C.P.R., to no avail. She injected a needle into her arm to try to start her heart. She even tried to use 'paddles', still no response.

        "Let the time of death...." began the doctor. John ran out of the room and banged his fists against the walls. His anger and grief engulfed him like a raging blaze. He was angry with God for not listening to his prayers, he silently wailed, "Why God, why Maggie? Why now, jusy as we were beginning?" Yet he still refused to let anyone see him fall apart. Mr. and Mrs. Evan's came out and both put their hands on his shoulders. He turned and hugged both of them. They had all loved Maggie and now she was gone. The Evan's knew now how much John had loved their daughter. He pulled himself together and asked if he could do anything. They thanked him , but shook their heads.

        A hospital chaplain had been notified by someone and he entered the room, telling them how sorry he was to hear about the death of their loved one. He told them how it was in God's hands, then left them to deal with their loss in private. He glazed at him with contempt. How dare he say she was God's hands when He had so cruelly ended something just starting?

        John told them he wanted to help with the funeral arrangements. Sam Evans started to protest, but Sara, his wife, put her arm on his.

        "Sam, Mr. Denver is grieving over Maggie too. Perhaps this is a way to deal with his pain," she turned towards John, "Yes, Mr. Denver, you can help if you wish. Any help would be appreciated. Thank you, if you would sing that song you just sang, I know Maggie would have loved it. Do you have a place to stay? If you don't, you're more than welcome to stay with Sam and me. Just for a couple of days until..." she said, her eyes filled with tears.

        "Thank you, Mr. Evans. I have to make some phone calls first, but I would like very much to stay with you," John said, excusing himself. He went to call his brother Ron and tell him what had happened and also to ask him if he would have all of his engagements postponed for a few days, stating a death in the family.

        Sam and Sara were waiting for him by the entranceway of the hospital. They led him to their car and drove back towards Nashville, about an hours drive.

        "How well did you know our daughter, Mr. Denver? We didn't know she knew you personally. . She was always playing your tapes all the time. You're all she ever talked about," Sara said trying to break the silence.

        "Please call me John. Actually, I had never met Maggie until last night. She was a very special lady. Someone who doesn't come along but once in a lifetime. Do you believe in love at first sight? Well, that's what happened. It was truly magical from the very start. I loved your daughter with all that I have. I even asked her to marry me. That's why she was at the airport. She was saying good-bye and was to meet me in Dayton tomorrow night. She wanted to share that with you, to get your approval, if you will," John said sadly.

        "Please call us Sam and Sara. Maggie was special. She didn't have many friends, but she was always friendly, although quiet. She kept to herself mainly. She loved to take long walks in the woods behind our house. She loved animals and at one time, our house became a haven for almost a dozen wild animals. She would tend to them, and then set them free. She loved children. Our house became the neighborhood get together for all the mothers to drop off their children to let them spend afternoons playing make believe. Maggie was so patient with them all. She would have made a wonderful mother...." Sam told John as he drove, "Sara and I could tell you loved our daughter, those last minutes in the hospital..., I'm sorry...it's not fair....!" Sam said pulling over to the side of the road, his body racked with uncontrollable crying.

        "Sam, why don't you let me drive? You've been through enough. Driving helps me sort things out," John asked, leaning from the back to touch Sam's shoulder.

        "Maybe that's a good idea. I can't seem to concentrate on the road," Sam said, opening up his door. As they traded places, John hugged Sam and held him for a few seconds before he took over driving, making sure Sam was all right.
The rest of the ride back to the Evan's was in silence, each lost in their own private thoughts.

        Sara instructed John to pull into a driveway in front of a beautiful white house. They all got out and went inside. John called to make arrangements for Maggie and to have her remains sent to Nashville. The town only had one funeral home. He wanted to make her arrangements as painless as possible for Sara and Sam. He did have to ask them where they wanted her buried, Sara told him that they had a family cemetery and would like her buried there.

        After everything had been arranged, that could be over the phone, John asked if they would like him to pick out the casket. They both agreed it would be better. Sam drove him, but stayed in the car, the memory of his daughter's death was too painful.

        When they returned, Sara showed John to a bedroom that he would be using. It was right next to Maggie's old room. He asked if it wouldn't be imposing, if he might stay in the room that had been hers. Sara told him that it would be perfectly all right with them. She felt perhaps, he could be closer to her there. Her room was filled with posters and photographs of him. One shelf contained a stereo and all of his albums, tapes and c.d.'s. Another contained books about him, including one he had written called , Alfie, The Christmas Tree. He felt a little embarrassed by it. He felt he had invaded Maggie's private world, but he was also honored.

        As he glanced around the room, he noticed pictures of children of various ages, he also noticed some articles about nuclear disarmament, hunger and the environment.

        He noticed a guitar standing in a corner, he went over to it, picked it up and automatically tuned it.

        "It belonged to my grandmother, she gave it to Maggie before she died." Sara spoke softly as she entered the room. "I didn't mean to interrupt you. I just came in to see if you needed anything. Sam had some clothes that might fit you. If you don't mind worn in sports."

        "No, I don't mind at all," John said, managing a smile, "I hope you don't mind me tuning the guitar. Who are those children? Did Maggie know them?" He indicated by looking at the wall. Sara came over and stood beside him, staring at the photos her daughter had taken.

        "No, I don't mind at all about you tuning the guitar. To answer your second question, yes, Maggie knew them, most lived around here. Some were latch key kids that parents worked all the time. She would spend hours singing and playing for them, they knew all your songs. She loved taking pictures of them."

        John's mind flashed back at the night before when Maggie sat on stage with him. Had it only been a day ago? It seemed like a life time.

        Sara fixed supper, grateful to be doing something normal. After the dishes were done, she and Sam took John down to a small pond. They explained that this had been Maggie's secret place. They had known about it, but no one else had.

        He could feel her presence there, he could almost smell the light scent of her perfume. Sara and Sam left him alone to deal with his grief. He was appreciative for their consideration. He found a spot and sat down. He began to let go of some of his built up emotions. He wept openly for the first time since the accident.

        The sun was setting slowly in the western sky, turning it into a bright orange and pale pink. He hated to leave this enchanted place, but he knew he would return.

        John joined Sara and Sam back at the house. They were looking through old photographs of Maggie when she was a little girl. When he sat down they handed him a scrapbook. Over the years she really hadn't changed much. Sara handed him a picture of Maggie that somehow captured she beauty and innocence, even though she held a fish that was almost as big as she was!

        "You may have this picture, we had extras made, it was taken when Maggie was about seven, I believe. She was so proud of that fish, she made us take that picture and have several copies made! She was such a tomboy at that age! Whenever Sam would get his fishing gear, Maggie would be ready with a pole in one hand and a tackle box in the other."

       "Thank you I will treasure it always," John told her, looking at the picture. He remembered how she had looked in his bathrobe and sweatsuit. He had to smile in spite of himself. He tucked the picture safely away in his shirt pocket.

        Sara and Sam were becoming like family to him even though he had only known them a brief time. They couldn't have been any better if they had been his own. The next few days were like a nightmare, without their strength and support, John didn't know how he would have gotten threw it. They all went to the funeral home and greeted mourners, he staying away from the people that came, but not meaning to be rude. This was for them and their daughter. Afterwards they would go home to a void, a house where Maggie had grown up and that she had loved.

        The dreadful day came. The day of the funeral. John walked down by the pond, he sat thinking about his beloved lady that had come into his life for such a short time. He remembered Sara had told him how her daughter had taken a portable tape player and spent countless hours in solitude, listening to his tapes. If only he had known her sooner, but now it was too late.
Sara called from the house, breaking into his thoughts. She told him it was time to get ready to go. He got up and walked slowly towards the house. Sara and Sam liked John, they didn't care that he was rich or famous, that didn't matter to them. They discovered he was a warm caring man. They never doubted that he would help Sara in the kitchen or Sam chop wood for the fireplace, all they had to do was ask.

        John quickly showered and changed into a dark blue suit and white shirt that Sara had laid out for him. He noticed Sam was shaking as they walked out to the car. John asked him if he wanted him to drive. Sam nodded his head and began to sob uncontrollably. John held him, the reality of Maggie's death hitting him in waves. Sara came around the car to help Sam, John saw that she too, had been crying. John felt as if a part of his heart was missing. He also felt sorry for Sara and Sam, he had lost someone he had loved, but so did they. Their only child, their beloved daughter. He vowed that whoever drove the car that murdered Maggie would pay dearly.

        When they arrived at the funeral home, there were some friends of Sara's and Sam's filing in. It seemed like the whole town was there, Maggie didn't realize how many people did care about her. Person after person came up and shared how Maggie had touched their lives in some small way.

        The service began with a few soft ballads. Sara had told John Maggie loved them. She said Maggie had once told her that although organ music was nice, it was too depressing.

        The minister was an old family friend, he began the service by talking about what a beautiful woman Maggie had been, inside as well as out. About what a loving daughter to her parents she had been and also about the love she had shared with the children who had befriended her. He told everyone what a tragedy that she should be taken from her loved ones at such an early age and that she was in God's hands now. However unjust it was, God has called her home.

        After the minister had finished, it was time to pay last respects. John helped Sara and Sam up to the casket and they took their last look at their only child.

        Some children came up and placed some daisies near the coffin. John found out they were her favorite flowers. He thanked the children and told them Maggie's spirit would live on in their hearts.

        He looked down at her, even in death, she looked peaceful and beautiful. She was dressed in a light blue dress with a lace collar and lace trim around the sleeves, he remembered blue had been her favorite color as it was his, and someone had placed a daisy in her hair. He bent down and kissed her for the last time.

        He joined Sara and Sam as he helped them out, into the waiting limousine for the short ride to the cemetery. They rode in silence.

        The cars pulled slowly into the graveyard. Everyone got out and walked to the burial site. John had noticed someone had placed Maggie's guitar near the grave. It took a few minutes for everyone to arrive and be seated. He helped the Evans to their chairs and then seated himself.

        When Maggie's casket was placed on it's stand and flowers put on it, the minister began speaking, "Today we have a very distinguished guest with us. He was a special friend to Maggie and has helped her parents deal with their loss. He was asked to sing a song requested by Maggie's mother, Sara. John, when you are ready."

        John nodded as he rose and thanked the minister. He went over to Maggie's guitar, picked it up and facing Maggie, began singing. He started playing My Sweet Lady*. He sang as if she were still here with him. He closed his eyes and envisioned her standing beside him. He also sang with so much emotion there was not one dry eye in the assembly.

        When the song ended, John asked if he may say something. The minister nodded.

        "You all know who I am, but that's not important, it's who Maggie was. I only knew her a short while, but she changed my life. Her spirit lives on in all of us who's lives she touched. Her family has been just simply wonderful to me. They took a stranger into their home and made him feel welcome. I know Maggie is in Heaven and that she will be with us forever in our hearts. Thank you," John said putting Maggie's guitar back on it's stand and sat down.

        After a short prayer, everyone began to leave, but not without first offering their condolences. John walked back over to the casket and said his own special good-bye, "Farewell, my lovely lady. I swear to you I'll never forget you. I will find the person responsible for taking you away from me, I promise."

        John felt a hand on his shoulder, he turned to see Sam.

        "There's no more we can do. Come on son, it's time to go home," he said, walking John back to the car. Sara was waiting for them, tears fresh in her eyes.

        On the way back to the funeral home, Sam asked John what he was going to do now. He told them he had a couple of commitments to get out of the way and then he wanted to go home for awhile, to sort things out. Sam told him he was always welcome to stay as long as he wished and in the future he could come back to get away and visit, if he wished.

        As they drove home, John told them he needed a ride to the Monroe County Airport in the morning. Sam said he would be happy to drive him.

        When they returned to the Evans, John told them he wanted to be alone for awhile and walked towards the pond. He sat down by the edge of the water and watched as minnows played in the shallows.

        He could almost hear Maggie's voice whispering in the breeze. He again let his emotions run freely, swearing that he would never forget her.

        The sky turned a bright orange as the sun set in the western sky, it being similar to the one he had seen when he first came to that place. He could hear her telling him she loved sunsets.

        Sara came looking for him and found him setting, leaning his back against a tree, throwing rocks into the water. He stood as she approached.

        "Are you all right? Maggie used to lean her back against that same tree," Sara said as he helped her sit down. John joining her," she said she felt closer to God in a place like this. Guess it's kind of like when you go to the mountains. I realize today has been tough on all of us. I made some supper hours ago, but Sam insisted I let you be, for awhile. I brought you something," she said, reaching behind the tree and grabbing the old guitar that had belonged to Maggie. John stood and thanked her as he helped her stand and watched as she headed for the house.

        He sat back down and leaned against the tree. He started playing softly, humming to himself. He again remembered how frightened Maggie had looked up on stage, again that night seemed ages ago, her long golden brown hair, her beautiful green eyes and her warm smile that could melt even the coldest of hearts. He recalled how she looked in his bathrobe, almost comical. He again could smell her sweet perfume. This truly had been her secret place and he felt her presence all around him.
He never wanted to leave this beautiful place, just as he didn't want to leave when the Evans first brought him here, but he knew he must. Just a few more minutes, he said to himself.

        Night had fallen and the sky was alive with brilliant stars, each twinkling in unison. John couldn't tear himself away. He realized then he had been playing My Sweet Lady*.

        He had never thought about the words anymore, but as he sat playing, he carefully searched each line, word by word. He knew why this song had been Maggie's favorite song.

        He closed his eyes and dreamt of her and how happy their lives would have been. Again he asked himself, why? Why had she been taken away from him?

        Before he knew it, he had fallen asleep. He awoke with the warm sun shining brightly on his face. It promised a beautiful Spring day. Someone, he suspected Sara, had placed a blanket over him during the night. He sat up and looked around. He found his glasses, which he had worn since the funeral, wiped the dew from them and put them on. He noticed the guitar was missing and then saw it leaning against the tree. He knew it was time to leave.

        He got up and brushed himself off, picked up the blanket, shook it and fold it neatly. He then picked up the guitar and headed back to the house.

        Sara was cooking breakfast as he walked in the back door. Sam was seated at his customary spot at the table, morning paper in hand. She instructed John to put the blanket and guitar down and sit at the table.

        "What time does your plane leave, John?" Sara asked, offering him a plate full of food. He looked at her worn face and saw that her eyes were red and swollen from crying. He knew that they were both still in a great deal of pain, but decided it would make things worse if he said anything.

        "Not until noon. I'll phone my pilot and instruct him to fly to Bloomington. I'm sorry for staying away all night, I just couldn't leave. Thank you for the blanket and guitar," he said trying as best he could to eat, but only picked at his food.
"We both understand," was all Sam said, putting down his paper, reaching out and patting his hand. John looked at Sam's graying hair, funny, it seemed to have gotten grayer overnight.

        "Sam and I decided you should keep the guitar, it won't do us any good sitting here and getting dusty," Sara said putting
some orange juice in front of him.

        "I want to thank you for sharing your home with me. I'll never forget your hospitality. You're both like family to me. I would like, if you don't mind, to return here someday, and you can visit me in Aspen," John said, picking up his juice.

        "Your more than welcome, my son. Perhaps Sara and I will take you up on your offer someday," Sam smiled wearily at him, "You know, I have to confess, we didn't understand why Maggie was so won over by you, but now that we have gotten to know you, we do."

        "Thank you both again," he said finishing his juice, never touching his food, and getting up. Sara gave him a motherly stern look.

        "Mr. Denver! If you think for one minute that I'm going to let you get by with just juice, you're sadly mistaken! Now sit yourself down and at least eat part of that plate of food!"

        John did as he was told and the food tasted fantastic. After he was finished, he excused himself and went to Maggie's room to get his things to shower and change. He noticed Sara had washed and pressed his own clothes which were laid out on the bed. He grinned at her thoughtfulness again. He also saw a small blue shoe box tied with a matching ribbon. He imagined Sara had put it there as well.

        He picked it up and untied the ribbon. Inside he found pictures of Maggie at different ages, he also found a note, it read:

Dear John,

    You don't know me, but I'm a fan of yours. I have been to some of your concerts and I just wanted to tell you how much you have touched my life.
    I love all your songs, but my favorite is My Sweet Lady*. Someday, I hope with all my heart , to meet you in person and get to know the person you are, not just the star as everyone else knows.
    May you continue to play your beautiful music for people to hear and enjoy and also to strive for a better world for all of us.

Your friend, Maggie Evans

        "John, you had better get ready, we have to leave soon," Sara called from the living room.

        "I'll be right there," he called as he cleared his throat and placed the box on the bed. He quickly showered and got dressed. He looked in the mirror and saw that he was beginning to show a day beard, but decided to shave later. His blond hair still damp as he combed it.

        When he was ready, he picked up the box and noticed for the first time, something written on the top: My favorite Things- Maggie Evans. He had almost missed it because the lettering had faded so much. He tucked the box under his arm and walked out to the living room. He saw that Sara had put Maggie's guitar in a battered old case. She and Sam were putting on their jackets. She had spotted the box under John's arm and smiled to herself, it was their gift to him from Maggie. He followed them out to their car, picking the instrument up on his way out.

        The ride to the airport took about forty five minutes from their home. Sam asked him what he was going to do after his Dayton concert. John told them he was going home to Aspen after he finished the rest of his tour. He then invited them again to visit him. He told them he would personally fly them there and back. He bragged he was the best guide of fishing holes in the west. Sara and Sam looked at one another and smiled.

        The little airport was busy, but Sam managed to find a parking place and pulled into it. They all got out, John carrying the guitar over his shoulder and the shoe box tucked safely under his arm. They shared one last good-bye and hugged. John headed out to the tar mat to his private jet that was waiting, fueled and ready.

        "We're ready Mr. Denver, whenever you are," said a ground attendant coming towards him, "May I take your things?"

        "No Ed, thanks, I'll carry them myself." John said clutching his new belongings tightly. He turned and waved when he reached the bottom of the ladder leading into the jet. He climbed it and was gone only to emerge a few seconds later, seated by a window.

        He watched as the Evans waved to him. The hatch closed and the jet taxied down the runway as it's engines began to roar. A light trail of smoke followed the jet as it lifted and headed towards Dayton. The Evans held hands as they watched the aircraft disappear out of sight.

        John watched as the ground grew smaller and smaller. He reached over in the empty seat next to him where he had placed the box and touched it, slowly running his fingers over her handwriting. He untied the ribbon and looked at her pictures, each special in it's own way. He reread the note she had written, almost etching it in his mind, his eyes brimming with tears.

        "Mr. Denver, we're about ready to land. Would you mind fastening your seatbelt?" he pilot asked over the intercom, interrupting his thoughts.

        He quickly cleared his throat and answered with an affirmative. He put the box away and looked down at his seatbelt. He had forgotten to fasten it after he boarded. He hurriedly fastened it. John took off his glasses and rubbed his eyes. He watched as the jet prepared to land. He saw his brother Ron and some crew members that he recognized on the field, waiting for him.
As the jet came to a stop, he unfastened his seatbelt and stood up. He picked up his guitar and shoe box and headed towards the hatch. As he walked down the ladder, he noticed a sign some girls were holding up that read, "We love you John!" He grinned and waved, shaking his head, it seemed almost everywhere he went, at least a few fans would manage to find him.
A limousine was waiting for him on the field, ready to take him to his hotel. As he headed for it, Ron met him.

        "I'm truly sorry to hear what happened. Don't worry about a thing. I called everyone and explained what had happened, they all understood. I also called the guys to help you finish out the tour, they were more than willing to help. One more thing, the newspapers got hold of what happened," Ron informed John, putting his hand on his shoulder. Sometimes they didn't agree on things, but John was grateful to have Ron for a brother.

        "It's all right, thanks for everything," was all he could manage to say.

        Ron rode back to the hotel with John, knowing his brother didn't want to talk, they sat in silence. He knew that it was healing time he needed.

        When the limo pulled up outside the hotel, there were fans waiting for John. He flinched, dreading to talk with anyone. Ron had once told him that if it weren't for his fans, he would be a nobody. After all, hadn't Maggie been a fan?

        He braced himself as he got out of the car, expecting to be engulfed by the crowd. But instead, they all parted and made a path leading to the hotel. John was touched by this display and realized these people, his fans, were aware he was hurting deep inside and this was their way of showing him how much they cared. A girl came up to him and handed him a bunch of daises tied with a blue ribbon

        "We're all so sorry about your loss," was all the girl said as she walked away. John thanked them and headed into the hotel. Perhaps Ron was right, these people cared and gave him the space he needed.

        Ron rode the elevator with his brother to the penthouse, both were silent as they lost in their own private thoughts. When the elevator reached the penthouse, they both walked out and spied the beautiful basket of fruit setting on a coffee table, John searched for a card and found it. He recognized the handwriting to be Sara's.

"Son,

We hope this basket of fruit arrives on time. Sam and I wish you luck on the rest of the tour. Remember, Maggie wouldn't want you to grieve over her. She would want you to continue to share your music with everyone, as you have so many times before. Please try to continue on with your life, playing, singing, working for the worth while causes that so desperately need you. Our daughter would have wanted it that way. You're in our thoughts and prayers."

Love, Sara and Sam

        The afternoon passed quickly. John told his brother about Maggie's parents and finally about the guitar Sara had given him. Soon it was time to get ready for the show. Ron left and John went into the bathroom to shower and shave. He looked at the reflection in the mirror, the person staring back at him looked much older than he did a few days ago.

        Before he got ready, he decided to go into his bedroom and meditate. A friend of his had shown him how to do this. He sat on his bed and closed his eyes, practicing deep breathing. He found his 'center' and focused on it. He cleared his mind of all thoughts. Soon he felt better and refreshed.

        He found the shoe box and opened it. He read Maggie's note over and over again. He wanted to memorize every i doted and t crossed. He put the note back, replaced the lid and put it on the nightstand beside his bed.
He showered, shaved and dressed. This time deciding to put in his contacts. He hadn't worn them since the funeral, but now, he felt for some strange reason he should.

        The crowd cheered as John was introduced at the concert hall. Ron had called his band and told them what had happened, they were more than willing to finish out the tour with him, he was not only the leader of their band and boss, bit also their friend. John greeted each of them with a bear hug and thank you. He was grateful for his brother and his friends.
He opened the show with Welcome To My Morning (Farewell Andromeda)*.

        The hall shook with thunderous applause. He sang a few more songs which the audience responded to.
Then John spoke to the crowd about his next song. He dedicated it to Maggie. It was called My Sweet Lady*. He could feel her presence strongly around him. He could hear her telling him that she was with him and always would be. He sang it with heartfelt emotions. He could hear whispering that this was their song. The audience stood and applauded for more than ten minutes. Wave after wave, it humbled John to see how much these people cared.

        After he finished his tour, John went home to Aspen for a well deserved rest. He wrote songs and went back on tour after a few months. But whenever he played in Indianapolis or surrounding areas, he made sure that Sara and Sam had front row center seats. He would always put aside time to spend with them, and never forgot to visit Maggie's grave and her special place by the pond. Sam finally even convinced Sara to take John up on his offer of a jet ride to Colorado and his Aspen home.
When he sang My Sweet Lady*, which he always did, he would play the guitar that once belonged to her, Maggie's spirit always within him.
 
 

Lady , are you crying, do the tears belong to me
Did you think our time together was all gone?
Lady, you've been dreaming, I'm as close as I can be
I swear to you our time has just begun.
Close your eyes and your weary mind
I promise I will stay right here beside you
Today our lives were joined, became entwined
I wish you could know how much I love you
Lady, are you happy, do you feel the way I do?
Are there meanings that you've never seen before
Lady, my sweet lady, I just can't believe it's true
And it's like I've never ever loved before.
Close your eyes and rest your weary mind
I promise I will stay right here beside you
Today our lives were joined, became entwined
I wish you could know how much I love you
Lady, are you crying, do the tears belong to me
Did you think our time together was all gone?
Lady, my sweet lady, I'm as close as I can be
I swear to you our time has just begun.

*Take Me Home, Country Roads written byDanoff/Nivert/Denver
*My Sweet Lady written by John Denver
*Fly Away written by John Denver
*Grandma's Feather Bed written by Kris Connor
*Annie's Song written by John Denver
*Don't Close Your Eyes Tonight written by Richard Kerr/ Frank Musker
*Amazon written by John Denver
*Welcome To My Morning (Farewell Andromeda) written by John Denver
*Flying For Me written by John Denver
*Let Us Begin (What are we making weapons for?) written by John Denver
*Saturday Night In Toledo Ohio written by Randy Sparks
* Forest Lawn written by Tom Paxton
*It's About Time written by John Denver
*The Peace Poem written by John Denver

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