The ferocity of the slamming front door startled Victoria in the parlor. Jumping up, she caught sight of owner of the tan vest stomping up the stairs and into his room.

Hiking up her skirts, she ran up the stairs and stood in the doorway. Heath was mumbling to himself, shoving things into his saddlebags, his bedroll lay open on the bed.

“Heath?”

Looking up, Heath shook his head negatively, needing time to fight the emotions running wild in him. Taking a breath, he gruffed, “I’m sorry I have to leave today.”

Walking to the end of the bed, she held onto the brass foot board, knuckles white from the grip. “Are you coming back?”

Rolling up the bedroll, Heath’s shaky fingers tied the rawhide strings around it, his voice quiet and quivering. “I don’t know.”

Stopping in front of her, Heath smiled tenderly at the familiar touch when she caressed his cheek. “Heath, I know you’re hurting right now. Please remember this will always be your home where your family lives. A family who loves you, including me. I do love you, Heath, as much as any mother could love her child.”

Leaning down, he placed a gentle kiss on her cheek and drew the tiny lady into his arms. “I’ll write to let you know where I am.”

Wiping her tears, she nodded, “I’ll always be here for you.”

“I know, thank you. Please tell the others goodbye for me.” Kissing the top of her silver hair, Heath’s voice was thick with emotion, his throat strained. “I love you, too.”

Grabbing up his saddlebags and bedroll, he left the room and the mansion, her sobs ringing in his ears. Duke McCall left the bunkhouse and stopped in his tracks at the sight of the man, the signs of departure clearly displayed on Charger, from the rifle in the scabbard to the saddlebags and bedroll.

“Heath!” he shouted rushing up when the rider halted his horse.

His breath caught in his throat when he looked up into the owner’s emotional face. “Heath, where are you going?”

“I’m leaving, Duke. Take care of yourself.” stated Heath extending his hand down to the older man.

“I’ll miss you, Heath.” Taking his hand, Duke asked quietly, “Does Nick know you’re leaving?”

“I’m leaving sooner than I told him I’d be.” admitted Heath with a shaky sigh. “Nick won’t have a problem getting another hand to replace me on the drive. It was nice working with ya’ again, Duke.”

Nudging Charger forward, Heath galloped out of the yard and headed towards the east. Staring after Heath in the yard of the ranch he had called home for over twenty years, Duke McCall wondered if he’d ever see Tom’s blonde son again.

Two weeks had passed since Heath’s departure from the ranch when Jarrod arrived in Strawberry. Rachel Martin’s wire directed Jarrod to the place Heath had gone a week before. Riding through the desolate town, he stopped at the cabin and dismounted.

Knocking on the door, he looked through the window at the lack of response from inside. Sitting on a chair, he waited in the cool air of the morning for his brother to appear.

Whistling reached his ears from the back of the cabin and he walked around the corner. Startled, Heath’s hand flashed down and brought up his gun.

“Don’t ever do that again!” snapped Heath at his shaken brother, reholstering his colt. “People are not exactly friendly in this town, Jarrod.”

“I’m sorry, Heath. I didn’t mean to startle you.” stated Jarrod following Heath to the front the cabin. “You’re looking well, Heath.”

Not responding, Heath gestured for Jarrod to sit at the table after they entered. Walking over to the stove, he grabbed the coffee pot and two mugs. Pouring coffee for both of them, Heath took a seat at the table across from his older brother.

Taking a sip of coffee, he sat back in his chair and pushed his hat back, “How’s Audra, Gene and Moth, uh, Mrs. Barkley?”

“They’re fine, Heath. I have some letters from them in my saddlebags for you.” smiled Jarrod slightly noticing Heath’s slip of Mother and the lack of Nick’s name in his question.

“Ya’ could’ve mailed them. I hear tell they’ve a postal service nowadays.” drawled Heath sarcastically.

Turning crimson at the wince on Jarrod’s face from his tone, Heath sighed and looked into his cup, “Why are ya’ here, Jarrod?”

“I’m here to ask you to take command of the trail drive.” stated Jarrod watching surprise flaring in the blue eyes before suspicion set in.

“Ya’ don’t need me for that. You got Nick.” stated Heath calmly. “It was a long ride for nothing, Jarrod.”

“Heath, Nick can’t make it.”

“What do you mean he can’t make it?” asked Heath. “Did he fall off the face of the earth or something?”

Chuckling, Jarrod shook his head. “No, little brother, he fell through some rotten boards in the loft of the barn all the way to the floor.”

“WHAT?” exclaimed Heath, pictures of a crumpled, broken Nick flashed through his mind. “IS HE ALRIGHT?”

“He’s got a broken leg, two broken ribs, mild concussion and a grouchy grizzly bear disposition.” informed Jarrod hope rising within him from Heath’s concerned eyes.

“Other than that, he’s okay, but unable to head the trail drive.”

Heath stood up and leaned against the kitchen counter, staring intently at his boots for several minutes. “You can lead the drive, Jarrod.”

“I can’t. I have a trial starting next week that will last for at least a month.”

“How about Eugene?” asked Heath looking up.

Staring into the blue eyes, Jarrod inquired firmly, “Do you honestly feel this is a responsibility Gene can handle, Heath?”

Taking a deep breath, Heath shook his head, “No, I guess not.”

Jarrod took a paper from his pocket and laid it on the table. “This is an agreement I’ve drawn up, Heath.”

Puzzled, Heath asked, “Agreement for what?”

“An agreement that states your payment for heading the trail drive. It lists your responsibility as boss on the trail drive, how to handle disbursement of the funds and other things.” explained Jarrod smiling inwardly at the fury forming in the blue eyes.

“YOU WANT ME TO SIGN THAT!”

“I thought you would be more comfortable if everything was drawn up.” said Jarrod innocently in response to the anger.

“WE’RE FAMILY! YOU DON’T HAVE DRAWN AGREEMENTS BETWEEN FAMILY!” snapped Heath offended and insulted at the idea.

“I’LL LEAD THE TRAIL DRIVE BECAUSE I’M A MEMBER OF THE FAMILY, NOT CAUSE OF SOME PAPER!”

Heath shook the small cabin when he slammed the door behind him, not seeing the wide satisfied grin on the face of his lawyer brother when he picked up the paper and put it back in his pocket.

Jarrod held his coffee cup up in a toast.

“Mother, you are a wise and wily woman. I thank you for it.”

Gathering his horses, Heath and Jarrod headed to Stockton. The ride back and the night spent under the stars quiet and unobtrusive. Jarrod took his clue from his younger brother’s lack of response, allowing Heath sanctity from questions, allowing him a blanket of peace.

Heath rode behind his brother, leading his new string of horses, his mind going nonstop. At night, he lay on the bedroll after a quick dinner, his thoughts mirrored the ones he had on the ride, provoking anger and anxiety, calm and nervousness.

Arriving the next morning, Duke McCall loudly greeted the returning man. Pounding enthusiastically on his back, Duke grinned widely, “Great to see you, Heath! Welcome back!”

Returning the foreman’s greeting, Heath smiled back, “I’ve only been gone two weeks, Duke.”

Winking, Duke leaned in and whispered, “With Nick’s attitude these past weeks, I thought you’d been gone a whole year! That fall certainly didn’t help any either.”

Chuckling, Heath lead the new horses to the corral with the foreman bending his ear, discussing everything left to do in preparation for the upcoming drive.

Shutting the gate, Heath looked over at Duke and stated, “I’d better get the howdies over with. I’ll be out in a few minutes, Duke.”

“Okay, boss.” grinned Duke heading into the barn.

Stopping in front of the door with Jarrod, Heath brushed the dust from his clothes and put his saddlebags over his shoulder. The door flew open and Audra shrieked loudly, “HEATH!”

Flying into his arms, Heath felt Jarrod’s hand on his back steadying him from his little sister’s welcome. Kissing her cheek, he gave her a strong hug lifting her off her feet, beaming happily into her eyes.

“Boy howdy, Audra. You’re even prettier than when I left, sis.”

Blushing, she smiled widely, “You’re such a tease, Heath. I’ve missed you terribly.”

Taking his arm, she lead him into the house. Jarrod followed behind his two blonde siblings, smiling at Audra’s excited chattering about the latest fund raiser for the orphanage.

“Sorry, I wasn’t there Audra. Did you get my donation?” asked Heath.

“I did, Heath, but that’s an awful lot of money. Are you sure you don’t need it?”

“The orphans need it more than I do.” assured Heath, his eyes seeing the mistress of the house entering the foyer, the sight of her warming his heart.

“Heath, welcome back.”

Taking her outstretched hands, Heath kissed her cheeks and smiled warmly. “Morning, Mrs. Barkley. Thank ya’ for your letter.”

Caressing his cheek, she smiled, “It’s good to see you. Nick’s resting in the parlor.”

“Duke and I have to run into Stockton to take care of a couple details for the trail drive.” replied Heath quietly placing his saddlebags on the table. “I’ll see Nick later.”

Nodding, Victoria walked him to the door. Smiling, she whispered, “I’ve missed you, son.”

Blushing from the term of endearment, Heath flashed a lop-sided grin before leaving the mansion and riding out with the foreman, leaving a dejected brother behind.

Hearing the southern drawl in the foyer caused Nick’s heart to pump furiously, the sound of the voice vibrated softly in his ears. His bruised face scrunched up in pain as he slowly made his way to his feet, standing on his crutches.

Turning to greet his returning brother, the disappointment and loss clearly showed for all to see at the lack of the appearance by Heath. Hanging his head, he fought the despair which shadowed him since his little brother’s departure.

“Nick, he can’t avoid you forever.” said Jarrod quietly. “He’ll be back later.”

“I know, pappy.” sighed Nick sitting on the couch, propping his leg on the table.

Squeezing his shoulder, Audra asked, “Do you want some more coffee, Nick?”

Patting her hand, he shook his head. “Not right now, Audra. Thanks.”

Shooing the other two children out of the parlor, Victoria took Nick’s chin and lifted his pale face upwards. “Heath is still hurt and confused, Nick. He’ll need some time to get over that. His agreeing to handle the drive is a good sign.”

“Mother, I didn’t realize I was hurting him. He trusted me and I let him down. I just want to talk to Heath and explain it. I need him here with me.” whispered Nick, a gasp of pain leaving his lips unwillingly.

Nick shook his head in refusal at the dose of laudanum his mother held out for his pain.

“Nick, you need to get some rest.” stated Victoria firmly. “When Heath comes back, you can talk to him then.”

Relenting and taking the pain medicine, Nick lay on the couch and felt it working its way through his tired and sore body. His eyes drifted shut of their own accord, his breathing steady and even.

Covering him with a blanket, Victoria leaned down and kissed his forehead.

Brushing his hair back, she whispered, “Nick, his eyes are haunted just like yours. Heath’s hurting, too.”

Heath arrived back at the ranch after lunch. Sending Duke out to check on the cattle, he tied Charger to the hitching rail and entered the house. Putting his hat and gun belt on the round table, hearing sounds in the parlor, he entered the room and walked around to the side of the couch.

Heath’s breath inhaled sharply at the bruises on the face of his brother, his head wrapped in a white bandage, the plastered leg sticking out from the blanket, the wrappings around his ribs could be seen through the half-buttoned shirt.

Nick’s face was covered in a sheen of sweat, his head moving back and forth, mumbled words leaving the thin lips, his mind locked somewhere in his dreams.

“Heath..”

Sitting down on the table beside the couch, Heath was drawn by the unconscious words Nick spoke, parts of phrases clear, others garbled.

“I won’t leave you…in dark”

Heath’s eyes never left his brother’s face, his heart pounding as he eavesdropped, entranced by the memories the words were invoking. Knowing his brother was reliving the terror Heath shared with him in the tunnel.

“Don’t go Heath!”

“HEATH!” shouted Nick flinging his body off the couch, his arm outstretched.

Jumping, Heath grabbed him before he could hit the floor, the extra weight pushing him into a sitting position on the hardwood floor.

“Nick, wake up!” called Heath holding the larger man in his arms. “NICK!”

Opening his eyes slowly, Nick stared at the face peering down at him.

“Heath, you okay?” asked Nick, drugged hazel eyes filled with concern.

Heath nodded, “Fine. You’re the one banged up.”

Confusion showed in Nick’s eyes as he tenderly rubbed his face, “Damn medicine. Makes me fuzzy. I dreamt you were hurt.”

“Ya’ were having a nightmare.” stated Heath helping him off the floor back onto the couch.

“Thanks.” gasped Nick slightly grabbing the blue clothed arm. “Heath, I’m sorry for everything.”

“I’m sure you are, Nick.” gruffed Heath stepping away from the reach of his brother. The remorse in the hazel eyes clear for Heath to see. Staring into Heath’s face, Nick’s stomach lurched from the shutters that were pulled over the pools of blue.

“Did you rebreak anything when you fell off the couch?”

“Don’t think so.” replied Nick.

“Good.”

“Heath, we have..”

“Nick, I came back to head the trail drive. That’s all.” informed Heath firmly. “I got work to do.”

Nick’s calls to his brother were answered by the closing of the front door. Closing his eyes, his body shook with emotion, hands trembling as he raised them to wipe the tears from his cheeks.

Standing in the doorway of the bunkhouse Duke listened to Heath’s interactions with the ranch crew, explaining the route they were taking on the drive, assigning their responsibilities for the start of the drive the next day. Heath announced he was giving them a night of freedom for the work they’d done over the past week.

“Have a good time tonight, but I expect ya’ at the herd before first light in the morning.” stated Heath.

“If’n we’re late, what are you gonna do? Drive the herd without us?” sneered Barrett.

The men looked from Heath to Barrett waiting for the explosion. Over the past week, Barrett made it clear he preferred Nick to Heath as a boss, his snide remarks about the blonde’s parentage causing the others to start avoiding him. Of all the men in the crew, Barrett was the only one who couldn’t find anything to respect in the new boss.

“If I have to, I will Barrett. But if you want to stay behind, just say the word. Ain’t nobody stopping you from not playing with the big boys.” retorted Heath sarcastically, the crew laughing loudly at the red on the hand’s face.

Nodding to the men, Heath grinned at Duke as he left the bunkhouse. Duke smiled, listening to the others telling Barrett to stop his whining or leave cause they were all sick of him and his mouth.

Heath’s style of leadership was a direct contrast to his brother’s. He posted the duties each day and expected all the men to work as hard as he did. If they did, he’d thank them. If they didn’t, he’d explain the benefits of putting more effort into their work.

Testing the new boss, a few of the men had experienced the benefit talk. It only took one talk before they realized this was not a man who’d take any back sliding, this man could back up his words with fists when necessary. Being a recipient of a ‘benefit talk’ became an inside joke to the crew.

Passing each test the crew put him through earned Heath their respect. When he was at the ranch before, he worked side by side with Nick, Duke or mostly alone. Most of the men hadn’t worked with Heath and were unsure of the newest family member when he stepped in to fill the vacancy created by Nick’s accident.

Throughout the week, a few silently wondered why Heath hadn’t been put in charge of some of the crews when he lived at the ranch before. His obvious knowledge of ranching, the skills he displayed everyday had not gone unseen by the hands. His dedication and foresight shone through in the planning and preparations for the drive.

The crew liked and respected Nick, but found in their new boss another person they could count on and trust. He wouldn’t ask them to do anything he wouldn’t do himself. He’d handle any of the dirtiest jobs without shirking and without complaining.

Long after they were in the bunkhouse for the night, he’d be returning to the ranch late, Heath would finish one of the jobs he wanted done before the two month long drive, knowing Nick would be out of commission and unable to perform the work.

Before anyone else on the ranch had risen to greet the morning, Heath was awake and working for a few hours before breakfast. His self-imposed schedule keeping himself out of the house for most of the past week.

After leaving the bunkhouse, Heath climbed into the loft, grabbed the hammer and completed replacing the last section of the rotten flooring. His movements sure and steady, the rhythmic banging of the hammer reaching Nick’s ears as he made his way to the barn in search of his elusive little brother.

Coming down the ladder, Heath put the hammer and nails away, glancing at Nick leaning on his crutches.

“Evening, Nick.”

“Little brother, everything ready for the drive?” asked Nick.

“Yep.” replied Heath quietly, “Dinner ready?”

“No, not yet. Since I’m able to get around, I was hoping you’d show me the new horses you brought with you.” stated Nick bracing himself for a denial.

“Sure, Nick.” shrugged Heath leading the way outside to the corral.

Hazel eyes gleamed with happiness as Nick hobbled along after Heath. His breathing coming in pants, sweat rolled down his face by the time he stopped beside Heath at the corral bars.

Watching the horses, Heath glanced at Nick out of the corner of his eye. The strain on the tanned face from the exertion causing his heart to twist with worry. Fighting the urge to put a steadying arm around his brother’s shoulders, Heath talked quietly, pointing out the good lines he saw in the horses.

Hearing the familiar voice, a mare walked over to the corral and whinnied. Climbing over the bars, Heath stood talking and petting the animal. The other horses watched from across the corral at the strange interaction between their peer and the human. Giving her a final pat on the neck, Heath climbed out of the corral and jumped down beside Nick.

Nick couldn’t keep his eyes off the horses running and cavorting in the corral. His trained eye knew quality when he saw it.

“Heath, you found all these horses wild behind Strawberry?” asked Nick incredulously. “I’ve never known a herd of wild horses to have so many with good lines in them.”

Heath replied, “Only the mare came from behind Strawberry, Nick. I bought the others last week.”

“You bought them?” inquired Nick staring at the man beside him. “Why?”

Looking up at the sky, Heath debated whether to answer the question. This was not the time or place he’d have chosen, but decided it’d be best to get it out in the open. Now or later, either way his brother wouldn’t like his answer.

“I was leaving to look at a ranch the morning Jarrod came to Strawberry.” admitted Heath, the crestfallen face of his brother looking at him in disbelief.

Finding his voice, Nick stammered, “What ranch? Where were you going?”

“New Pine Creek.”

“OREGON!” exclaimed Nick grabbing the corral bars swaying slightly from the shock.

“Nice country up that way. A man I used to work with wired me about a ranch for sale.”

“You were gonna move to Oregon?” exclaimed Nick. “What about us?”

“I told you before I was only here to handle the trail drive. After it’s done, I’m leaving.”

“Heath, I’d been running the ranch alone without a partner for so long, well, there’s just no excuse for my behavior. I know you tried to tell me and I didn’t listen. Don’t leave without giving us another try, little brother.” pleaded Nick, desperation quivering his voice.

“Nick, it doesn’t matter..”

“Yes, it does matter, Heath! Promise me you’ll come back here after the drive, we’ll talk and work things out.” urged Nick. “Promise me you won’t buy another ranch.”

Heath stated quietly, “No, I can’t promise that.”

“CAN’T OR WON’T?” yelled Nick anger deepening his voice, the impending loss sending his emotions reeling in a downward spiral.

Staring into the flaring hazel eyes, Heath took a breath to calm the fury he felt building inside. His hands clenched, his back rigid, the words low and cold, ice hanging from them when they left his mouth.

“It took me a long time to trust you, Nick. But it sure as hell didn’t take long for you to destroy it. You broke your promise and went back on your word. If you think I’m gonna let you do that to me again, YOU’RE LOCO!”

Turning on his heel, Heath walked to the house without a backwards glance.

Jarrod stood at the french doors, watching Nick looking up into the cloudy, starless night sky. Pouring two drinks, he walked out and handed one to his brother.

“Thanks.”

“You waiting for rain, Nick?” teased Jarrod.

“No, just thinking.” replied Nick sipping on the brandy.

Turning his eyes to the sky, Jarrod smiled slightly, “Do you suppose Heath’s looking up at the stars tonight?”

Sighing deeply, Nick looked over, “Remember when we went to the lodge that weekend?”

Nodding, Jarrod smiled, “Like it was yesterday, Nick. We sure had a good time.”

Chuckling, Nick grinned “Yeah, we did.”

Walking over and sitting on the bench under the gazebo, Nick waited until Jarrod sat across from him. Leaning his elbows on his knees and holding the glass in his hands, Nick smiled.

“Heath was sure excited about that trip. Hell, he strung more words together on the ride up there than I’d ever heard him say before.”

“He sure talked our ears off.” smiled Jarrod tenderly. “Remember when he saw the lodge for the first time?”

“I thought he was gonna fall off his horse!” Laughing and leaning back, Nick wiped at his eyes, “He was so shocked at the size of it. He kept calling it the Barkley Hotel, so Gene pretended to be the desk clerk and bell hop! Making this big production out of showing him to his room and carrying in his luggage. His saddlebags!”

Jarrod stammered through his laughter, “When we went fishing, Gene took out the newest rod and reel, bragging about all the fish he was gonna catch. Heath laughed til he fell on the ground and couldn’t catch his breath when Gene got all tangled up in the line. Tears ran down Heath’s face when you and I had to cut Gene loose.”

“Then Heath pulls out a string and a hook, catches all these fish and drawls ‘I think these fish like the old way, college boy.’ Gene was so mad he pushed Heath in the lake, fish and all.” grinned Nick.

“Then Heath gets this innocent boy look on his face, water dripping off him, soaked to the skin and suggests Gene fish with dynamite the next day instead of his fancy rod and reel.” chuckled Jarrod. “Poor Gene! Now he has three older brothers to torture him.”

“We had a great time up there, talking and laughing. Just being basically lazy.” admitted Nick with a wide smile.

“After you and Gene would go to sleep, Heath and I’d sit on the steps of the porch. He’d roll a cigarette and stare at the sky while he smoked it, sometimes pointing out certain stars to me.”

“You didn’t tell me that.” smiled Jarrod taking in the hazel eyes looking back in fond remembrance.

“He knows all the constellations, Jarrod. Imagine that! A kid who wasn’t allowed to stay in school past the second grade knows the constellations of the stars. I don’t know the constellations and I graduated high school!” snorted Nick. “Heath sure is full of surprises, ain’t he?”

Both brothers sat lost in their own thoughts of time spent with their unique blonde brother. Good times and bad times. The journey from it’s explosive starting point to their current haphazard position.

“Two more weeks left on the drive, Jarrod.” stated Nick quietly breaking the silence around them. “Two more weeks, then we’ll know if we’re gonna lose our little brother because of me.”

“Nick, stop beating yourself up.” admonished Jarrod. “You’re not the only brother who could have done a better job.”

“What are you talking about?”

“I was there too. I saw what was happening but thought you needed to work it out between yourselves. I should have taken you aside, but I didn’t and now look where we are.” stated Jarrod bitterly, angry at himself for the misdirection he had taken in his role as older brother.

“Should have, could have, would have.” smiled Nick looking up into Jarrod’s puzzled expression. “Heath told me once at the lodge..

‘Nick, wishes are for those who want the world handed to them on a silver platter. You can’t change things with wishes. You can’t go back in time. I don’t want the world or anything else handed to me. I’m a working man who’ll work and be satisfied with a small piece of land, a good horse and a full belly as I sit in front of the fire.’

“Jarrod, I offered him the world of the Barkley ranch. When I sit here and remember him saying, ‘Okay, Nick’, I can feel the same excitement and feelings, I had the day he agreed to come back to the ranch. I offered him hope and a future, then when he got here I took it all away and left him with nothing.”

The silence gathered around the two saddened brothers in the velvety darkness of the night.

Frowning, Jarrod sipped his brandy, his thoughts nagging at him. “Nick, do you recall when during those two months things between you two got rocky?

“Yeah.”

“Remember all the shouting, the heated words and the fights you two had? During this time, did Heath have any nightmares?” asked Jarrod quietly.

Thinking back, Nick shook his head and stated firmly, “No, none. I would’ve heard them.”

Leaning forward, Jarrod smiled widely. “Interesting, isn’t it Nick?”

Sitting up suddenly, Nick grinned and exclaimed, “It sure is, Pappy!”

The dust from the hooves of the large herd rose in the air and settled down on everything in its wake. The walking beeves kept on track by the persistent cowboys, riding their steeds, capturing those looking for freedom and directing them back to the safety of the group. This simple play being shown on all sides of the herd, each day, every hour.

Following a mossy horned bull, the protest from playing pied piper rose up from the beasts of many colors, filling the air with their sounds. The two legged upright beasts responded back with shouts and curses, a taste of ropes across their backs and rumps, encouraging a forward movement.

Onward they marched, unheeding of the day of the week, unheeding of the week of the month, forging their way to the unknown destination. Stopping at night, having their fill of cool stream water, milling around in a large mass. Singing voices could be heard in the night air, soothing in their ears as the humans circled the mass of horns and hooves, keeping them calm, safe and together.

The crew of men and their leader knew how lucky they had been so far. The weather had been cooperative, the streams full of water, the grass plentiful on their trail. The answer to the wires sent by Heath before leaving Stockton had proved to hold truth so far. Sending telegraphs to people he had met or worked for over the years, to inquire about the trail conditions was one step in his preparation, he felt was a wise move.

One could use the knowledge gained for their benefit, experience the environment when they arrived in it and adjust their plans accordingly to what was found. Knowing when you could reach a dry spot was helpful. Knowing if a stream was lower than normal for the time of year was helpful. Knowing if rivers were higher than normal was helpful.

Of course, a trail drive itself held a varying degree of risk. No one could fully prepare for every contingency. A trail drive was unsure as life, there was nothing set in stone. A trail drive could be as unforgiving as a scorned woman and dangerous as a poised rattler. You could only push on and keep alert to everything around you, changing and adapting when necessary.

The cattle, crew and the ranch were dependent on the leader of the drive for the tenacity, guts, motivation, will and strength to see it through to the very end. The leader was the glue that held the crew together under the strenuous, dangerous and tiresome conditions. Loss of respect for the leader would bring the drive to a halt, the men to leave and all to be lost.

Duke rode beside Heath and rode proudly. Heath earned the respect of the crew and worked hard to keep it that way. He conversed with the crew, ate with them, slept with them, disciplined the crew and worked the dreaded drag with them. He took a night watch shift, scouted trails, chased down strays and kept an eye on all his crew members.

Sitting and drinking his coffee, Duke wondered where Barrett was since Heath fired him on the spot for drinking four days before. Glancing at Heath across the fire, the bruises still reflected on the blonde’s face from the brawl with the bigger man.

Barrett stumbled slightly on his way to the fire after his watch, Heath’s face turned to stone from the smell of whiskey on the man. The crew watched intently when Heath stood before Barrett, his cold words ringing through the silence for all to hear.

“Barrett, drinking on the drive is not allowed. Pack your gear and get out or I’ll do it for you.”

Sneering, Barrett laughed, “You and what army, bastard.”

“I don’t need any help, Barrett. You’ve been wanting a piece of me for some time now, well, here I am.” stated Heath calmly.

Looking in the icy blue eyes, Barrett felt a shiver run down his spine while the anger in him rose, his thoughts careless. ‘This bastard actually thinks he can take me. I’ll show him.’

Nodding in agreement, Barrett swung his arm slicing the air where the blonde’s head was. Seeing the punch coming, Heath ducked and connected with Barrett’s stomach, taking the air out of the other man. Growling with fury, Barrett jumped and pushed Heath back onto the hard packed ground.

Rolling over, the crew scrambled out of the way forming a circle around the two combatants. Fists and feet flew, sounds of flesh hitting flesh rang through the camp, blood poured off each man, bruises forming, breaths were coming in ragged gasps from fury being unleashed.

Barrett was losing and that knowledge had him drawing his gun. Shouting a warning, Duke reached for his pistol, his hand stopping when a knife entered Barrett’s gun arm. Screaming in pain, the gun dropped from Barrett’s hand, his other trying to close over the bloody wound around the knife projecting from it.

Wiping his face with his sleeve, Heath picked up the dropped gun and pulled his knife out of Barrett’s arm, eliciting a string of curses from the pale man that could curdle milk.

“Bandage him up Duke, then, see that he rides out.” stated Heath coldly.

Duke shouted out the orders, a couple men gathered Barrett’s gear and put it on his horse. Escorting the terminated hand to his horse, Duke and two others mounted and lead Barrett away into the night.

Jacob grabbed a canteen and a towel. Gesturing for Heath to sit, he cleaned his face and bandaged what he could. “All done, boss. Not as good as a fancy doctor, but it’ll do.”

“Thanks, Jacob. You men best get some sleep.” ordered Heath quietly, the pain from the fight already starting to reveal themselves.

“It was a good fight, boss.” admitted Jacob putting away the items.

“Barrett don’t hit nearly as hard as Nick.” admitts Heath with a slight grin, receiving nods of agreement from several crew members.

Laughing amongst themselves, the crew settled down on their bedrolls, admiration and respect for the boss, fully intact. Heath’s handling of the situation was exactly how their other boss, Nick, would have handled it.

Two weeks were left in the drive and Heath put in extra time to alleviate the burden on the crew caused by his firing of Barrett. Duke watched Heath say some last words to the men before making his way out of camp on his nightly ritual.

Each night, Heath walked away from the firelight, into the shadows, after the guards had been dispersed to the herd for the first watch.

Each night, Heath sat away from the rest of the crew, alone with his thoughts for a brief period of time.

Each night, Heath went over the upcoming trail in his mind for the next day’s progress.

Each night, Heath thought of each of the family back in Stockton, wondering how they had spent their day, what were they doing at that moment in time.

Each night, Heath’s guilt grew thinking of leaving behind the family he realized was firmly encased in his heart.

Each night, Heath looked within himself to find the answers, frustrated when he only found uncertainty and doubt.

Each night, Heath would look to the stars, smoke a cigarette and wait for the answer to make itself known.

Each night, no answers were forthcoming.

Until tonight. Tonight, the answer found him.

It was if the darkness he had blanketed around himself was lifted and replaced with a kaleidoscope of colors. Brilliant, shimmering and blinding. Bursting in the darkened sky like a fireworks display on independence day. A multitude of colors abound, brightening everything in the area.

A feeling of lightness filled him, uncertainty replaced with sureness, doubt replaced with hope, a frown replaced with a smile.

Grinding the stub of cigarette into the ground, Heath walked back into camp and took out a pad of paper from his saddlebags. Leaning against his saddle, he wrote with a pencil in the flickering firelight. Finishing, he put the papers in an envelope and addressed it. Tucking the letter in his shirt pocket, he lay down and fell asleep looking at the stars.

Nick stared at the envelope addressed to him, turning it over in his hands, afraid of the contents housed inside. The name of his little brother written in the corner. Looking at the expectant faces of his family, Nick turned and walked up the grand staircase to his room, steps slow and methodical.

Closing the door, he set the letter carefully on his table and sat on the side of his bed. His hazel eyes burned with trepidation, staring at the envelope as if afraid it were about to bite like a rattlesnake or sting like a scorpion. Standing, he paced the length of his room, his hands stuffed in the back pockets of his jeans, his eyes unwillingly drawn to the rectangle of white beckoning him.

Suddenly Nick’s pacing stopped and he chuckled to himself, shaking his head at his hesitancy and lack of courage to open an ordinary white envelope.

“You’ll never know if you don’t read it.” his baritone voice whispering the words in the quiet room.

Tentatively picking up the letter, he carefully opened the envelope and pulled out the papers. Sitting on the bed, he took a great breath of air and slowly exhaled. With shaky fingers, he unfolded the sheets and stared at the words on the first page.

Nick,

Okay.

Heath.

His heart pounded, his stomach jumped into his throat, his mind set for denial slowly comprehended the one word answer, his vision reduced down to the one word leaping out from the page.

“YES!!” shouted Nick throwing open his door and flying down the stairs to the parlor. “YES! JARROD!!”

“HE SAID OKAY!” yelled Nick to his startled family as he slid to a stop on the hardwood floor. Jarrod whooped loudly for joy, jumped up and grabbed his brother in a gigantic hug.

Both brothers were talking at once, the excitement permeating the air of the gigantic house, their words tumbled out, their smiles lighting up the room taking away the darkness surrounding them.

Audra and Victoria looked at each other puzzled.

“What are you talking about, Nick?” inquired Victoria. “Who said okay?”

“Heath said okay, Mother! He’s coming back after the drive so we can talk and work things out.” exclaimed Nick.

Handing the top page to her, Victoria shared it with Audra, neither fully understanding how Nick and Jarrod knew what Heath was relaying based on the single word ‘okay’.

“That’s wonderful news!” smiled Victoria, deciding to not dwell on the how or why of the one word message, letting the news warm her heart and further brightened her gray eyes.

“What’s that other page, Nick?” asked Audra smiling widely at the happiness overtaking the recent sadness reflecting in Nick and Jarrod’s faces.

“I didn’t read it yet. Guess I’m a little excited.” grinned Nick reading the words on the paper outloud to his grinning family.

Nick,

Had to fire Barrett for drinking on the job. We’re one hand short, but making good time. By the time you read this we should be headed back.

Give my best to the family.

Heath

P.S. Remember when we fought over stacking the feedbags? Can you guess now why I moved them to the other side of the loft? Just realized I forgot to tell you. Sorry for the broke leg you got cause of it.

“When did you fight about that, Nick?” asked Audra searching her memory for the specific incident, saddened at how many she could bring to mind.

“That’s the last argument we had when Heath left the first time. I thought he was just ignoring my orders. I didn’t give him a chance to explain, as usual, I jumped all over him.” frowned Nick, remembering the scene angry word for angry word, fist for fist.

Victoria nodded and sighed, “I remember. It seems like such a long time ago.”

Clapping Nick on the back, Jarrod grinned, “This is great news, Nick.”

“It’s the best news I’ve ever received, pappy.” smiled Nick widely.

Nodding in agreement, Jarrod looked into the hazel eyes intensely, “What are we gonna do to ensure our little brother stays with us for the rest of our lives brother Nick?”

....Continued