New Year’s Eve, Heath fidgeted nervously on the platform of the depot as he waited. His heart pounding, his palms sweaty and his eyes lighting up at the sight of the train approaching.

Scanning the crowd, his breath caught in his throat as she stepped out on the platform of the car. Stepping over, he grabbed her by the waist and swung her to the ground.

“Heath!” cried Sonja as she hugged her handsome cowboy.

Returning her hug, he held onto her tightly and whispered in her ear, “I missed ya’ honey.”

“I missed you two, cowboy.” smiled Sonja. “Are you giving me a ride home?”

Taking her bags, Heath nodded, “Your carriage awaits my lady.”

Helping her into the surrey, Heath climbed in, “How was the visit with your family?”

“It was very nice. Does Hannah like her new home?” asked Sonja.

Pulling up in front of the house she rented, Heath smiled, “She has settled in like a trooper. I’m so happy we could convince her to move here.”

Unlocking the door, Sonja held the door for him and shut it behind her. Taking off her hat, she put it on the table beside the door and asked, “How are Nick and Sue doing?”

Hearing the back door close and puzzled when her question didn’t receive an answer, she walked into the living room and gasped.

The room was set up with candles flickering and sending their glow throughout the darkened room. On the table, a bottle of champagne was chilling with two crystal glasses beside it.

Taking her hand, Heath pulled her to a chair and placed her in it. Kneeling down, he took both her hands and smiled warmly.

“Sonja, the first day you came into my life, was the day my life truly began. I love your smile, your sense of humor and the way you giggle. The warmth, kindness and generosity in you shines true for all to see. Every night, I dream of your beautiful face. Every morning, I long to wake up with you beside me.”

The tears welled in his eyes and Heath felt her hands squeeze his.

“You bring out the best in all those whose lives you touch and especially in me. I love you more than I could have ever imagined loving another human being.”

With tears streaming down her face, Sonja watched as her cowboy pulled a box from his pocket. Opening it, her eyes widened at the diamond stone.

“Sonja Sorenson, may I have the honor of becoming your husband?”

Weeping openly, Sonja stared into the sky blue eyes and whispered, “Yes! Yes!”

Taking the solitaire from the box, Heath’s shaky fingers slid it on her left hand. Lifting her hand, he kissed it and pulled her out of the chair onto him.

“I love you, Heath Barkley!” whispered Sonja as she straddled his lap and kissed him deeply.

Kissing the tears from her cheeks, he brushed his lips against hers. “You’ve made me the happiest man in the world, darling.”

Holding her tightly against him, their mouths met and the kisses lengthened as their love swept them on a wild ride. Her head tilted back, he explored the length of her neck with his mouth and groaned as she arched against him from the surge of desire.

Staring deeply into her brown eyes, he whispered huskily, “I’ve missed you terribly, honey.”

Moving against him, her heart pounded at his sharp intake of breath and moan of hunger. Brushing her lips against his, she smiled at the fire in his eyes and whispered quietly, “Show me how much, Heath.”

Two months later, the three women were about to embark on the shopping trip to San Francisco. Nick, Jack and Heath watched, hiding their smiles, as Charity rolled her eyes in exasperation at her friend, “Suzanne, you don’t need your gun!”

Glaring at the men, Sue took off her gun and hung it on a hook by the door.

“Okay, just wait and I’ll get my knife.” replied Sue as she headed to the bedroom.

Charity stopped her and shook her head, “You don’t need that either, Suzanne.”

Shaking her finger at Charity and Sonja, she retorted, “Fine, but if we get robbed in San Francisco, don’t look at me when we come home penniless.”

“We’re only going to be gone three days, Sue.” smiled Sonja sweetly. “If we need any protection, you can flatten them with a right hook.”

No longer able to contain themselves, the three men laughed outloud as Sue turned crimson and said brusquely “Let’s go.”

The laughter following her outside as the others hurried to catch up to her. Putting their bags in the back of the surrey, Nick climbed on the seat and picked up the reins. Sue sat beside him and the other two women sat in the back talking excitedly about their upcoming adventure.

Nick smiled at the green eyed beauty beside him and slapped the reins to move the horses. Jack and Heath followed on their horses discussing the spring branding that was coming up.

“I feel naked without my gun.” mumbled Sue. “I’ll probably need it when we see that dang opera.”

Nick chuckled, “Relax and enjoy this break, honey.”

Sighing, Sue whispered, “Yeah, but you guys get to go fishing. How fair is that!”

“If it’s any consolation, we’re not going until all the branding is done, my chameleon.” replied Nick seriously.

“Gee, that makes me feel better. Thanks.” retorted Sue sarcastically as Nick chuckled.

Reaching the depot, the men carried their bags for them and set them by the bench. Nick and Sue waited by the surrey for the train to arrive.

“Try not to have too much fun when you’re there.” grinned Nick.

“If it wasn’t for Charity, I’d stay home.” mumbled Sue.

Pulling her close, Nick nuzzled her neck and whispered, “I’ll miss you.”

“I’ll miss you, too.” whispered Sue before his lips met hers.

The train ride to San Francisco was long, though in reality, it was only a few hours long. But to Sue Weston, it had seemed like an eternity.

Taking seats in the rapidly filling passenger car, Charity and Sonja sat beside each other facing Sue. Her mood which had improved, helped along by the passionate goodbye kisses from Nick, took a spiral downwards as a portly gentleman occupied the empty seat next to her. The cars rocked as the train headed out towards their destination.

“Good morning, Ladies.” bellowed the man. “Purcival McMann at your service.”

Sue rolled her eyes and looked out the window while Charity and Sonja exchanged greetings with the friendly man.

“Are you traveling to San Francisco?” asked Purcival noting the rings on the fingers of the ladies across form him.

“Yes, we are Mr. McMann.” replied Charity politely.

Glancing at the woman beside him, Purcival smiled at the ringless left hand. “San Francisco has some wonderful restaurants and cultural exhibits. I’m traveling there for business myself, however, I always try to take in the sights as much as I can when I’m there. Miss Weston, are you planning on taking in the sights when you are there?” asked Purcival with a hopeful smile.

Watching the amusement light up her friends’ eyes, Sue glared at them and replied smartly, “I’m not planning on leaving the house.”

“That would be a shame, Miss Weston. You really must take in some of the exhibits.” stated Purcival. “I could tell you some of the ones to visit if you would like.”

Realizing the gentleman was not going to let her ignore him, Sue sighed and asked. “What type of business are you in, Mr. McMann?”

Excited at the woman’s interest, he replied, “I sell only the finest men’s cologne.”

‘That’s what I smell’ thought Sue.

Opening his case, Purcival brought out a medium sized bottle. Holding it gently in his hand, he carefully took off the cap. Reaching over, he held it out to Sonja and Charity.

“This is our new aroma. We always like to know what ladies think of our products. Take a whiff of that!”

Sonja took the bottle and caught the scent. Grimacing, she held it close to Charity, who politely took a smell and shook her head, “Interesting.”

Taking the bottle back, Purcival handed it to Sue for her opinion when the car lurched and a man fell into him. The cologne spilled onto the front of Sue’s shirt and she jumped out of her seat.

“JUST GREAT!” she yelled as she brushed the offending cologne off the front of her shirt.

Purcival stammered, “I am so sorry Miss Weston. Let me get that for you.”

Taking out his handkerchief, he reached towards the angry woman’s chest. Grabbing the wrist of his hand, Sue growled, “Don’t even think about it!”

“Sorry, Miss Weston.” blushed Purcival.

Wrinkling her nose, Sue muttered, “This stuff smells like sh..”

“Suzanne!” exclaimed Charity cutting off her friend’s words as Sonja dabbed at the shirt.

“It was an accident, Miss Weston. Please let me make it up to you. I really must do something.”

“You’ve done quite enough, Mr. McMann.” stated Sue sitting back down. Turning her head to the window and trying to ignore the smell coming from her shirt, she mumbled, “I knew I should’ve brought my gun. Maybe I can buy one when I get there.”

Hearing the mumbled words, Purcival busied himself with a book the rest of the trip.

Jarrod watched in puzzlement at the people disembarking from the train. Waving their hands in front of their faces and making comments regarding ‘fresh air at last’. Seeing Sonja and Charity, Jarrod waved and headed over.

“Hi there!” smiled Jarrod as he kissed the cheek of each woman. Looking around, he smiled at Charity, “Where’s Sue?”

Giggling, Charity pointed towards the car as an obnoxious order reached them. Jumping down from the stairs, Sue glared when Jarrod grimaced and held her at arm’s length.

“Nice to see you again, Sue.” replied Jarrod as he quickly gave her a kiss on the cheek and stepped back. “What happened?”

“Miss Weston, I must say again how truly sorry I am.” blustered Purcival as he hurried away.

Pointing at the back of the retreating man, Sue groaned, “He spilled his men’s finest cologne stuff all over me! I would’ve shot him but Charity wouldn’t let me bring my gun!”

Jarrod laughed, “I’ll take you over to the house and you can get cleaned up. Dinner is my treat tonight and we are going to the finest restaurant in San Francisco, ladies!”

Walking to the carriages, Jarrod winked at Charity and Sonja. “Sue, could you walk downwind?”

“Very funny, Jarrod!” smirked Sue at the twinkling blue eyes. “Maybe I’ll get you some of this stuff for your birthday!”

Chuckling, Jarrod helped the ladies in and drove them to the house.

After a full day of sightseeing and shopping, they arrived back at Jarrod’s home to change for dinner. The women headed to the parlor while Jarrod poured drinks and listened to them approaching.

“Really, Suzanne! I can’t believe you did that!” sighed Charity.

“Officer O’Malley didn’t have a problem with it.” smiled Sue.

Handing them each a sherry, Jarrod asked curiously, “Do you need a lawyer, Sue?”

Sue rolled her eyes, “I do not need the services of an attorney. It was no big deal!”

Sonja shook her head and explained, “There was this man who grabbed a woman’s handbag. She was screaming and he was running down the street towards us.”

“You tripped him as he went by?” suggested Jarrod.

Sue started laughing and Charity stomped her foot. “It is not funny, Suzanne!”

“Well, I know you didn’t shoot him cause you left your gun in Stockton.” surmised Jarrod aloud making Sue laugh harder. “So, what did you do?”

Sonja grinned at Sue who was wiping the tears from her eyes, “Jarrod, she grabbed this rope off a street vendor, lassoed and hog-tied him! The man was cursing at her, so Sue sat on him. It’s hard to curse at someone when you’re trying to breathe. Then the police came.”

“He shouldn’t be stealing like that!” said Sue with a smile as she smoothed the skirt of her dress. "He should get a real job!”

“Suzanne, that was the policemen’s job. They could have caught him.” groaned Charity.

Jarrod winked at Sue, “It doesn’t sound like anyone got hurt. What did the police say?”

“O’Malley said ‘Since you hog-tied this critter, do you wanna brand him too?’ Boy howdy, I was real tempted Jarrod.” replied Sue seriously as the other two women shook their heads.

Jarrod smiled at the merriment flashing in the green eyes, “And you thought you weren’t going to have any fun in the big city!”

The next morning, Sue sat on the porch steps, watching the sunrise and drinking coffee when Jarrod sat down beside her.

“You do realize the other ladies are not planning to rise until eight, don’t you?” asked Jarrod.

Chuckling, Sue nodded, “Sorry if I woke you, Jarrod.”

“You didn’t wake me. Contrary to what Nick may think, I have been known to get up early.” teased Jarrod.

“I’ve been getting up early all my life and can’t seem to sleep late. Unless I’m unconscious or on laudanum. That was a nice dinner last night, Jarrod. Well, except for those snails and our neighbor at the next table.” shivered Sue.

“Escargot is an acquired taste and I noticed your salesman was enjoying them.”

“I must have the worst luck! There must be a hundred, maybe a thousand restaurants in a city this size and he had to choose that one to dine in.” groaned Sue.

“He did turn a little green around the gills when he saw you.” smirked Jarrod.

Shaking her head, she smiled, “I have that effect on people. It’s a gift.”

Laughing, Jarrod rose and came back with the coffee pot. As he poured a refill, he asked, “What are your plans today?”

“Charity and Sonja are going to look at some more women’s clothing stores. I get to escape and check out the leather and gun shops. Officer O’Malley told me of a couple of good ones yesterday.”

“I’m sure you’ll have a good time doing that and be all ready for the opera tonight.”

Rolling her eyes, Sue frowned, “Jarrod, do you like the opera, honestly?”

“Yes, I do like the opera. I think you either like it or you don’t.” smiled Jarrod. “Why?”

Looking around to ensure they were alone, Sue whispered, “I’ve been to one and I hated it! I think those things are an acquired taste just like snails.”

“Then why are you going?” whispered Jarrod.

“Because Charity’s heart is set on it and I couldn’t do that to her. This is a special trip for her and I wouldn’t want to ruin it.” sighed Sue. “Besides, her and Sonja are just chomping at the bit for me to wear another dress.”

“I guess you’re stuck then.” snickered Jarrod.

“Hey, maybe my luck will turn! I could get run over by a horse, break a leg or fall down and hurt myself.” replied Sue with a hopeful look that made Jarrod chuckle.

Sitting at a table in the outside café, Sue watched the people walk by as she enjoyed her coffee and waited for Jarrod to arrive.

“Tis you again, lass.” stated Officer O’Malley as he approached the table.

Standing, Sue shook hands with the officer. “Officer O’Malley, nice to see you. Care to join me for a coffee? I’m just waiting on someone.”

“Don’t mind if I do.” replied O’Malley as he sat across from Sue who had signaled the waiter.

“Did you hog-tie anyone today?” teased Sue.

“No, that tis your job, not mine.” laughed O’Malley as he sipped his coffee. “Lass, did you check out the shops I spoke about yesterday?”

“I did that this morning. You were right about them. They had some quality merchandise and pretty reasonable, too.” smiled Sue. “Thanks for letting me know. I’m having some things sent to the ranch.”

“Did you be saying your ranch was in Stockton?”

“It is. Do you know anyone from there? Other than me?”

Chuckling, O’Malley nodded, “I know Danny Baldwin. He’s a lawyer, I hear now.”

“I know Dan. He’s a fine lawyer and a good friend.” smiled Sue. “So, tell me O’Malley, how was Danny when he was growing up?”

“Lass, he was not bad, but not good either.”

Green eyes lighting up in anticipation, Sue leaned forward and whispered, “O’Malley, you gotta tell me about my attorney’s misspent youth.”

Jarrod hurried to the café, his meeting running late caused him to be forty minutes behind in schedule. Seeing Sue at a table, he heard her laughter as he walked up.

“Sue, sorry I’m late.” smiled Jarrod turning to the man and shaking his hand. “Officer O’Malley, nice to see you again.”

“Mr. Barkley, tis good to see you. I’d best be getting back to me beat. Lass, if you ever come back, you be sure to stop over to the station and say hi.” smiled O’Malley.

“I will and thanks again.” grinned Sue as she winked. Laughing, O’Malley walked down the street.

“I’m glad to see you had someone to keep you company.” smiled Jarrod as they walked down the street.

“He was just telling me how he knew Dan Baldwin.”

Watching the laughter in the green eyes, Jarrod smirked, “Whatever it was, I don’t think Dan’s gonna like you knowing from that look in your eyes.”

“Nope, I don’t think so!” laughed Sue as she climbed in the carriage. “It does make up for having to go to the Opera tonight, though.”

Picking up Charity and Sonja, the four made their way back to the home of Jarrod to have dinner and ready themselves for the opera. Pouring himself a drink, Jarrod heard a knock at the door.

“Telegram for Miss Suzanne Weston.” stated the boy as the door opened.

“I’ll give it to her. Thank you.” said Jarrod handing him a tip.

Walking into the kitchen, he handed Sue the telegram and watched the green eyes well with tears.

“Sue?” asked Jarrod softly.

Wiping her eyes, she whispered, “I, uh, I gotta get to Texas, Jarrod.”

Holding her by the shoulders, Jarrod asked quietly “What’s happened, Sue?”

“An old friend was murdered. I gotta pack and catch the next train.”

“I’m sorry, Sue.” said Jarrod as he gave her a hug. “I’ll hitch up the carriage and drive you to the depot.”

A hand on his sleeve stopped him as he turned to leave.

“Jarrod. I’m gonna need a gun.”

Jarrod said quietly, “I’ve an extra gun and belt.”

“I bought a new belt today. I only need the gun.” said Sue walking beside him into the living room. “Thanks, Jarrod.”

“You can borrow anything you want, but, do you wanna tell me why?”

“Self protection.” replied Sue climbing the stairs to the guest room.

Pausing outside the room she was sharing with Charity, Sue took a deep breath and opened the door.

“Charity, I have to go to Texas. Nathan’s been murdered.” explained Sue softly handing her the telegram and began quickly packing her bag.

“Suzanne, I’m so sorry. Do you want me to go with you?” asked Charity wiping the tears that had begun to fall after reading the wire.

“No. You and Sonja stay here. Jarrod’s gonna drive me to the train station.”

Opening a package, Sue took out the new gunbelt and strapped it on. Sonja came in as she was finishing.

“Where are you going, Sue? Why’s Charity crying?”

Charity shook her head, “Sue’s gotta go to Texas. Her uncle’s been murdered.”

“Oh, I’m so sorry!”

“Thanks!” replied Sue softly as she put the last of the items in her bag.

“I thought you didn’t have any relatives, Sue?” puzzled Sonja.

“He’s my adopted uncle. Nathan is, uh, was a very good friend of my father’s.” replied Sue softly taking a deep breath to squelch the tears that were threatening to spill over.

Closing the bag, she hugged each of the women. “If I have time, I’ll wire the ranch before I get on the train. I’m sorry for running out on you.”

Hugging Sue again, Charity whispered, “Be careful.”

Putting on her hat, Sue smiled and squeezed her hand, “I’ll be fine.”

The women followed her out of the room and down the stairs where Jarrod handed Sue a gun and a box of shells. Checking the loads, Sue put the pistol in her belt and filled up the loops with bullets.

Taking her bag, Jarrod carried it out and put it in the carriage with Charity and Sonja watching as they drove away.

“Charity, why is she taking a gun?” asked Sonja.

Closing the door and locking it, Charity poured them a sherry. “Here’s the wire.”

Suzanne Weston
140 Nob Hill
San Francisco, CA

Wire received from Dan Freely
Nathan Mathis murdered
Varner escaped may be responsible
Will send Jack to Texas upon return

Bill

Reading the wire, Sonja looked at Charity, “Who’s Varner?”

Handing Sonja the drink, Charity sat in a chair. “I don’t know the whole story. Suzanne wrote me a few years back and said Varner had shot Heath. Suzanne tracked him down for the rangers and with her help, they were able to send him to prison.”

“What? Sue could be in serious trouble if he’s the one responsible!” exclaimed Sonja.

Charity nodded and smiled slightly, “She’ll be fine and Jack’s gonna be there to make sure of it.”

Jack, Heath and Nick bypassed the ranches and rode straight to the train station to meet the ladies that would be arriving in a few minutes.

Their return from the fishing trip had been delayed when Jack’s horse had panicked crossing a rushing river. Jack had fallen off into the river and hit his head on a rock. Racing down the banks of the river, Nick and Heath got ahead of him and were able to pull the unconscious man out. Stopping the bleeding, they were relieved when he opened his eyes a short while later.

“I must be in hell.” groaned Jack holding his head with his hands as Heath and Nick looked at each other concerned that Jack may have a serious head wound.

“Why do you say that?” asked Heath softly.

Jack replied, “Only in hell would I wake up to nurses that look like you two.”

Heath grinned while Nick bellowed, “THAT’S WHAT WE GET FOR PULLING YOUR SORRY ASS OUT OF THE WATER!”

“Ouch, Nick!” moaned Jack. “I already got a headache!”

“Sorry.” said Nick sheepishly. “Let’s see if you can stand.”

Holding onto him, the brothers helped Jack to his feet. Walking on wobbly legs, they helped him to a tree and leaned him up against it. Closing his eyes to fight the dizziness, Jack mumbled, “We better get going if we want to get back tonight.”

Heath snorted, “I don’t think you can ride, Jack. We could wait til the morning and still get there in time for the train.”

“I think Heath’s right, Jack.” agreed Nick. “Not that I wanted to spend another night eating my little brother’s sorry excuse for food, mind you.”

Heath sported a wounded look and growled, “Thanks for volunteering to cook tonight, big brother.”

“I DIDN’T VOLUNTEER..”

“Nick!” snarled Jack as the pounding increased.

“Sorry. I’ll just go see about the horses.” stated Nick jumping up and walking away with spurs jingling.

Tying up the horses, they waited for the train that was coming up the tracks. Sonja stepped off the train followed by Charity and were greeted warmed by Jack and Heath.

Looking around, Nick frowned and asked, “Where’s Sue? Did she miss the train?”

“Suzanne’s on her way to Texas, Nick. Jack, you better read this.” stated Charity as she handed him the wire.

“Damn!” growled Jack handing the wire to the brothers.

“Who’s this Varner?” inquired Nick watching the clenching of Heath’s jaw.

Heath said quietly, “Nick, I’m catching the next train to Texas.”

“Me, too” replied Jack as he turned too quickly and held onto Heath when the world started spinning.

“You’re not going anywhere but Dr. Merar’s.” stated Nick holding his other arm. “Let’s get him down there.”

Heath and Nick helped Jack onto his horse. Looking down, a pale Jack smiled at Charity, “Honey, you better go with Sonja.”

“I will. We’ll drop off the bags and see you at the doctors.” stated Charity as she and Sonja left.

Dropping Jack off at Dr. Merar’s house, Nick followed Heath outside.

“Heath, wait a minute!”

“Nick!” stated Heath brusquely.

“I’m trying to tell you that I’m going with you, little brother.” snapped Nick. “First, let’s tell Mother and Duke what’s going on. Then let Sue’s crew know about Jack. The train’s not leaving until six. We got plenty of time to do all that and for you to say goodbye to Sonja.”

“Okay.” smiled Heath gratefully.

“On the train you can tell me all about this Varner guy.”

“He’s a bad one, Nick. Nathan Mathis was a good friend of Sue’s and like an uncle to her. I don’t like Sue being there with Varner on the loose.” sighed Heath.

“She won’t be alone for long. We’ll be there soon.” stated Nick firmly mounting Coco and riding down the street with Heath beside him.

....Continued