On the Other Foot

by Arkangel

Disclaimer: The characters and situations of the TV program "Big Valley" are the creations of Four Star/Republic Pictures and have been used without permission. No copyright infringement is intended by the author. The ideas expressed in this story are copyrighted to the author.

Note: This is an AU story. Jarrod is 30, Nick is 26 and Heath is 22. Audra is 19 and Eugene is 17. Thank you MrsNickB for graciously offering to beta read for me and also offering to help me with ideas and plots as well as the title for this story and also thanks to Tamsin for your help later in the story. You are both angel's.

"Boy howdy, it's hot." Heath Barkley said as he wiped a dusty sleeve across his brow.

"Sure is boss." Duke McCall answered doing the same.

"Reckon now would be as good a time as any to take a break. Why don't we go and see what Silas packed for us." Heath threw down the shovel and, with Duke following behind, went to his saddle bag to find the goodies.

Cloth bag in hand, Heath and Duke walked to the nearest shade tree and sat down tiredly next to it.

"Ham sandwiches, boy those look good enough to eat." Duke grabbed one and did just that.

"Yep, reckon Silas packed enough for a whole crew. We'll have plenty for later." Heath grinned taking a large bite.

Glancing up, Heath noticed a lone rider heading there way. "Rider comin." He said getting up to greet the man.

Duke stood behind him ready to help, or protect the young man in front of him.

"Help ya, stranger?" Heath asked.

"Yep, looking for work, could ya tell me who does the hiring for the Barkley ranch?" The stranger asked.

"That'd be me." Heath answered.

"Need any help?"

"What can ya do?"

"Anything, I've done it all. You just tell me what ya need done." The stranger looked at Heath and raised an eyebrow, "You're kinda young to be doing the hiring, aren't ya?"

"I'm old enough."

"This here's the boss, stranger."

"Really?"

"Yep, names Heath Barkley."

"Oh, well … " The stranger scratched his head, "Just how old are ya, boy?"

"Twenty-two, what difference does that make?" Heath asked getting a little angry at the personal intrusion.

"None, sorry … so are ya hiring?"

"Guess so, if you can do all you say you can?"

"I can."

"Good … good … we'll give ya a try."

The stranger grinned widely, "Thank you Mr. Barkley."

Heath nodded his head, he liked this stranger, seemed to know what he wanted. "You can start now. Grab a shovel and help us finish up replacing these here fence posts. Then well take ya and show ya were the bunk house is. This here's Duke McCall, he's my foreman and friend. If you have any problems or questions, he'll help ya."

"You won't regret it, Mr. Barkley."

"Call me Heath or Boss if you'd rather. I don't much like being called mister." Heath smiled.

"Alright Boss."

The stranger shook first Heath's hand then Dukes. "Nice to meet ya, son." Duke said, "Don't reckon you have a name?"

"Yep."

"Care to share it with us?" Duke grinned.

"Nick … Nick Thomson."

"Well Nick, let's finish up lunch and get to work. Don't guess you've eaten?" Heath asked waving a hand towards the large tree they'd been setting at.

"Nope, I am kinda hungry. Sure you got enough?"

"Plenty, let's eat." Heath said leading the way to the large shade tree.

They all sat down and devoured the rest of the sandwiches. Nick ate four. "Boy howdy, I've never seen anyone eat four sandwiches that quick." Heath stated with a grin.

Nick shrugged, "They're good, and I was hungry."

Heath gave the older man a contemplative look, "You kinda look familiar. Have we met?"

"Don't think so. Ever been to Modesto?"

"Not recently, that where you're from?" Heath said offering his new employee a canteen. "Nope."

"Oh, I guess you worked there then?" Heath said smiling at the game they were playing.

"Yep." Nick said smiling back. He liked this kid. He knew the moment he set eyes on him that he was a fair man and would be a good person to work for, he only hoped that he would be equally as good at being a brother.

"Not much on conversation, are ya?" Duke laughed.

"Well, I can yak as good as the next man as long as I got something to say."

Heath couldn't help but laugh, he felt that this man was a force to be reckoned with if he were to get started, just the way he held himself told him that he was a proud and honest man. He liked that. First impressions were key in finding a good hand and Heath's first impression of this stranger gave him a sense of ease. He really couldn't put his finger on it, but he felt a connection with this person. One he had never felt with any other hand, save for Duke. He was both bothered and excited at the prospects of finding a friend in this man. "Well, I guess we should get back to work. That is if you're through yakkin?"

Nick promptly laughed at the slight jab. "I'm done, told ya not ta get me started."

Heath slapped the new man on the back and guided him over to the wagon, "Just pick your weapon and start diggin."

Nick nodded and chose a shovel.

As the afternoon sun silently began it's descent into evening, the last post was placed and the wire tightly stretched. Admiring a job well done, Heath placed his tools in the wagon bed and waited for the others to do the same. Nick waited for a moment while Duke discarded his shovel then ambled over and did the same.

"You do good work, Nick. I'm impressed." Heath said leaning on the sideboard of the wagon.

"Thanks."

"You ready to get settled?"

"Sure … mind if I ask you a question?"

"Go ahead, you can ask me anything." Heath said with a friendly smile.

"Where's your father?" Nick asked wondering what kind of answer Heath would provide. He knew about the death of Tom Barkley, he had read about it like everyone else, but to hear it first hand was different. Nick braced himself for an answer, it was hard to fain ignorance, but he held fast.

Heath was taken back by the question, "Why are ya asking?"

"Well, it's just that, you seem awfully young to be running a ranch this size ... no offense." Nick said holding up a hand.

"None taken," taking a deep breath, Heath continued, " my father's dead. He died five years ago. Murdered." Heath said the sadness evident.

Nick bowed his head, "Sorry to hear that."

"Thanks. When he died, I was the one that had to take over. I was seventeen and had absolutely no idea what I was doing. If it wasn't for Duke here, I would have fallen on my face. Not many men want to take orders from a kid."

"Don't suspect they would." Nick looked up, "You don't have anyone to help ya ... family-wise I mean?"

"I have an older brother, Jarrod, he's a lawyer. He's not much into the working part of the ranch. He takes care of the legal part of it though. I also have a little sister, Audra and a younger brother, Gene. Gene's starting college this year but he's been a big help."

"What about your Mother?" Nick asked trying to keep the sadness from his voice.

"She's great, she kept the family going after father died. She's one of the strongest women I know. I'll introduce you to her this evening."

"I'd like that."

"Better yet, why don't you join us for dinner? The whole family will be there." Heath didn't know why he invited the stranger, something just told him he needed to do it.

"I don't know." Nick shook his head, he wasn't ready for this … not yet.

"Come on Nick, they don't bite." Duke added with a knowing smile. His feeling for this young man were the same as his young boss. Something was strikingly familiar but he just couldn't quit put his finger on it.

"If you're sure?"

"I'm sure." Heath smiled, "Now let's head back, Silas is making fried chicken and I sure don't want to miss it."

"Silas?" Nick asked hearing a new name.

"Yeah, he's our houseman, more like a member of the family. I don't know what we'd do without him. One of the best cooks this side of the divide." Heath boasted as he mounted Charger.

"This side of the divide huh? Well then, we better get going, I sure don't want ta miss such a treat." Nick smiled as he went to mount his own horse.

"It surely will be a treat. You ain't had nothing compared to Silas' fried chicken." Duke added. Nick noticed Heath staring at him. "Hey Boss?"

"Yeah?"

"I appreciate your giving me a chance." Nick said honestly.

"Your welcome, but I kinda feel I should be the one thanking you." Heath answered with a quick shake of his head.

"For what?" Nick asked feeling a strange sensation in his heart.

"I'm not sure, but, well I guess I'll figure it out." Heath smiled and scratched his head. "Race ya to the house."

"What! Hey, wait … that's not fair … I don't know where the house is … " Nick chuckled as he heard the laughter coming from the boy … his boss … his brother.

"You better get going … you don't want ta lose him." Duke said having come to a conclusion regarding this young man.

"I'm not planning on it." Nick said smiling at the foreman, "I came too far to lose him now … " Nick then kicked his horse and took off in the same direction Heath had went.

Watching Nick gallop away, Duke smiled, "No, I reckon that would be a shame … Mr. Barkley."

* * * * * * * *

Nick rode hard trying to catch the young whirlwind in front of him. It seemed to him that, at times, Heath would slow his steed down just enough to let him catch up a little then take off again. "Why you little … " Nick yelled and gave a chuckle, as he was left in a small cloud of dust once again.

"Come on Nick … surely that fine peace of horse flesh can catch this little ol' cowpony." Heath tossed over his shoulder.

"Cowpony my … that ain't no cowpony … "

"Sure he is … "

Nick stopped Coco and admired the horse and rider. Seeing that Nick had stopped, Heath slowed and turned fearing that Nick or his fine looking horse had been injured.

"You okay Nick?" Heath yelled as he drew nearer.

"Fine, just admiring your horse." Nick said matter of factly.

"Charger, he's a fine horse, father gave him to me before … I got him on my seventeenth birthday." Heath answered.

"He's sure a beauty."

"Yours is a fine looking horse to. What's his name?"

"Coco."

Reaching down and giving the majestic animal a pat Heath continued, "Well Coco, I'm sure you and your master will be mighty happy here in the Valley."

Coco snorted and gave his head a shake, "See, he likes me already." Heath laughed.

"He's a good judge of character." Nick answered.

Heath looked up and grinned, "I reckon that's a good quality in a horse, from where I stand, he's done pretty good so far."

Nick took the quiet statement as it was intended, a compliment, and gave a nod of thanks.

"Let get going, we're barely gonna have enough time to get cleaned up as it is."

"You're the boss." Nick grinned.

This time they made there way to the house at a more leisurely gate. Heath showing Nick different areas of interest as they went. "This is 'The Meadow'. I love it here. Over there is the lake, you won't find a better place to fish. Maybe you'd like to come with me one day?"

"Sure, I like fishin'. What's that over there?" Nick asked pointing to a small, white picket fenced area in the meadow.

"Father's buried there. He use to love to fish, some of my best memories were of him and me going fishin'. I sure do miss it."

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean … "

"It's alright. I like talking about him. Helps me remember things … remember him." Heath paused for a moment, "What about you, what did you and your father like to do?"

"Well, I never knew my father, so I can't really answer that question now can I?" Nick said a little too harshly. Softening his words he continued, "Sorry, I didn't mean to snap, I just wish I'd known him. He sounds like a … I mean, I bet he was a real fine fellow. At least that's what my mother told me."

"What's his name?"

"Does it matter?"

"I suppose it doesn't, sorry." Heath gave a small chuckle, "Seems we're always apologizing to each other."

Nick returned the chuckle, "Yeah, 'suspect we'll have to change that."

"Let's start now, no more apologizing unless it's absolutely necessary. Deal?" Heath offered.

"Deal." Nick gave his companion a smirk, "Now, how bout we finish that race … heyaaaa!!"

"Hey! I'm the only one that can do that … "

"Sooorrrrrryyyyyy!" Nick laughed heartily as he galloped out of sight.

"Come on boy, let's go get 'em!" Heath said as he kicked Charger in the sides.

The ride was refreshing and the country side breath taking, it was all Nick could do to keep his eyes forward and his mind set on the race at hand. It felt good to have such freedom, to let loose and run. As he topped the hill a large gate, with the name 'Barkley' stretched across the top, came into view. Reining in his horse, he rested Coco and stared at the entrance to his father's empire. Through that gate was his family, even though they had no idea what lay ahead, he did. He had planned to come to the Valley and meet them, get to know them. Then when the time was right, introduce himself and explain the circumstances of his birth. He had vowed to himself that he would not come to them in anger, he had already worked through most of that when first told of his parentage. At his mother's dying confession, she told him of his father, of his father's family, what she knew about them anyways, and directed him to a box carefully hidden in a small cedar chest. In it was a photo, old and worn, of his mother and a gentleman, on the back was written the name Thomas Barkley. Also present was a letter written to his Mother from Mr. Barkley and a clean, white handkerchief with the initials TJB embroiders in blue in one corner. Other small mementos littered the bottom of the box, most had no meaning for him and other were, what he assumed to be, memories his mother held dear from her time with his father. A pressed flower, a beautifully crafted silver hair comb, a gold tie pin … it was too much. She had obviously been keeping these things for him so that he would know, would understand who his father was and what she felt for him. Hearing Heath stop behind him, he pulled himself from his thoughts and turned. "Impressive." Nick stated.

Heath grinned proudly, "Thanks, come on, we still have a little ways to go before we get to the house."

All thoughts of racing forgotten, they rode together down the hill and through the gate. Some time later, they entered the yard of a large, brick home with white pillars. It was grand.

"Senor Barkley." Ciego said as he exited the barn.

"Hello Ciego, this is Nick Thomson, he started today." Heath said as he dismounted.

"Hola, Nick. Welcome." Ciego smiled as he took the reins of both horses.

"Hi … um I can do that if you show me were to bed him down." Nick said, as he retrieved the reins of his mount from Ciego.

"You come, I'll show you." Ciego agreed. "Senor Barkley, Senora Barkley has been asking for you."

"Thank you Ciego. Nick, when you're finished, come to the house and I'll introduce you to the family."

"Sure Boss." Nick said as he followed Ciego to the corral.

"You can bed your horse here tonight." Ciego said pointing to the corral. "Tomorrow we will take him to the trap."

Nick gave Ciego a nod of thanks as he led Coco to the corral gate. "You stay here, boy." Nick said as he unhooked and removed the saddle. "Look, you got a friend already." Nick laughed as another horse in the corral made it's way towards them. "Play nice."

Turning, he noticed Duke entering the yard, pulling the wagon to a halt he greeted Nick. "Nick! Who won?" Duke yelled as he climbed down.

"No one." Nick laughed, "Could ya show me where to stow my gear?"

"Sure, follow me." Duke said walking towards the bunk house. Opening the door, Duke motioned him to a pair of beds in the far corner, "Both are empty, take your pick. There's a foot locker there to stow your stuff in."

"Appreciate it." Nick replied.

"I reckon you'd best get cleaned up, the Barkley's serve dinner promptly at seven. I sure wouldn't want ya to be late." Duke grinned. "You're gonna like them, Nick … they're real nice folk."

"Duke, don't take this the wrong way, but do they always invite there hands for dinner?"

"It's happened a time or two. Like I said, they're real nice folk, they like to get to know there hands. Heath's taken a liking to ya, this is his way of showing ya."

"He seems like a real good kid." Nick answered.

"Don't let him hear ya call him kid. He don't like it none. He fought long and hard to shed that when he took over this ranch and I reckon he's earned the right to be called a man."

"Understood." Nick returned, "You been with them long?"

"Close to twenty-five years now." Duke said fondly, "I've seen them folks go through some really rough times, sickness, injury … death. They always come through. They're real good to have on your side." Duke waited a moment then continued, "Nick, I have a feeling that … if you play your cards right, you'll have yourself a home here."

"Really?" Nick said a little confused.

"Yep … seems to me you may be looking for something more than a job."

"You don't say." Nick turned away from the older man.

"I may be gettin' old, but I see things … Heath … he don't know a lot of things that happened before he was born … to him, you look familiar … because he's seen someone that looks like you in a picture his father kept on his desk … he may figure it out on his own, but not knowing the whys or the how comes, he won't put two and two together."

Nick narrowed his eyes, "What are you saying?"

"Nick, I'm saying that … you bare a striking resemblance to Tom's brother Jonathan when he was younger. I figure you're about, oh … 26 and, if I'm guessin' correctly, you're from Strawberry."

Nick stood quiet for a moment, "How ... "

"Like I said Nick, I see things … I didn't figure it out right away. I knew you looked familiar, I had seen the picture many times myself, but when I heard you laugh, it dawned on me, the rest just came together."

"My laugh?"

"Tom's laugh. You're a dead ringer with his laugh."

"Oh … listen Duke … don't say anything just yet. I wanna meet them for now, nothing else … okay?"

"So I'm right." Duke smiled brightly, "If you need anything or if there's anything you want ta know, you come find me. Ya hear?"

"I'll remember that." Nick tried to return the smile, " Now, where do I wash up?"

"Over here … good luck, Nick." Duke said with a smile then turned to leave. Shaking his head in disbelief, Nick proceeded to clean up and change into his only clean white shirt.

Once done, he left the bunk house and began his trek to the Barkley family home. Standing on the porch, he knocked. Soon a kindly looking man in a white jacket opened the front door, "Silas" he thought as the older gentleman smiled at him.

"May I help you?" Silas asked.

"Yes, I'm Nick Thomson, Mr. Barkley invited me to dinner this evening." Nick answered, stepping confidently into the foyer.

"Yes sir, Mr. Thomson, Mr. Heath told me you was coming. Let me take your hat and gun belt and I'll get Mr. Heath for you."

"Oh good, you're here." Heath said as he bounded down the staircase.

"Boy, you sure do know how to make an entrance." Nick laughed as he handed Silas the items he requested.

"Heath Morgan Barkley, I've told you a hundred times to walk down those stairs." Victoria said as she entered from the family room.

"Sorry Mother." Heath grinned, "Mother, I'd like you to meet our new hand, this is Nick Thomson … Nick, this is my Mother, Victoria Barkley."

Victoria turned and, for a brief moment froze, shaking the strange feelings that assaulted her, she smiled at Nick, "Mr. Thomson, it's very nice to meet you. Please forgive my harshness at calling down my son, he sometimes forgets that a gentleman does not run down the stairs." She said as she gave Heath another scolding glare.

Nick took Victoria's offered hand and gave it a gentle shake, "Nice to meet you Ma'am."

"Please, do come into the parlor, dinner will be ready shortly."

"Yes Ma'am." Nick answered as he followed her and Heath into a beautifully decorated but surprisingly comfortable room.

"Would you like a drink, Nick … Mother?" Heath asked as he walked to the sideboard.

"Sounds good." Nick answered walking over next to Heath.

"Yes Dear, that does sound good, thank you." Victoria stated as she studied the guest. She watched Nick as he strode toward the sideboard, took both his drink and the one Heath made for her, then, just as confidently strode back to hand her the drink. "Thank you Mr. Thomson."

"You're welcome, Ma'am." Nick smiled.

'That smile.' Victoria thought as she took the drink. "Please sit, the other's will be down shortly."

"So Nick, what do you think?" Heath said taking his seat.

"You have a real nice place." Nick nodded as he downed the drink.

Victoria chuckled, "Thank you, Mr. Thomson. I assume that you're new to the area, have you been here long?"

"Came from Modesto. I've been kinda driftin' for a while."

"Where are you from originally?" Victoria pushed gently.

Nick hesitated, giving his ear a tug, he contemplated answering that question. Deciding that telling the truth was better than skirting around it, he replied, "I'm originally from Strawberry, it's a little mining town … "

"Hey, didn't we own mines once in Strawberry, Mother?" Heath interrupted.

Victoria pushed the shock from her fine features and smiled, "Yes Dear, we did … and it's impolite to interrupt."

"Sorry Mother, Nick."

"It's okay, there's not much there anymore, it's pretty much a ghost town, only a few people remain." Nick continued.

"Do you … still have family there?"

"An uncle and aunt, they run a hotel. Then there's Aunt Rachel and Aunt Hannah. I've been trying to get them to move, but they're kind of set in their ways." Nick was somewhat taken back by the direction the questions were going, he wondered if she suspected, piecing together what she knew with what she had seen … much like Duke did. He was beginning to realize that, though his looks and his laugh were something he couldn't and wouldn't change, they would be the key to unlocking and opening this door. It may be easier than he thought to come forward and tell all.

Victoria nodded, she had so many more questions, but she felt that it improper to push their guest. The name 'Thomson' was not lost on her, she remembered full well the name of the women her husband had broken their marriage vows with … Leah Thomson … this was more than a coincidence, this was something much … much more. She had worried, when her husband had bore his soul of his indiscretions, that a child may have come of the union, but Tom, gently pushed it aside, stating that Leah would contact him if it were true. They had received no such contact and assumed a child had not been conceived. Could this be Leah and Tom's son? Victoria felt anger and pity, hurt and joy … the feelings were overwhelming … She hoped in her heart, that is wasn't true, but her eyes told her otherwise. The moment she saw Nick, an inexcusable feeling pushed itself forward, the hazel eyes, that black hair, the smile … all told her that this young man was something more than a simple cow hand.

"Ma'am?"

Victoria looked up and felt a flush of embarrassment, "I'm sorry Mr. Thomson, what did you say?"

"I asked if you were alright?" Nick asked feeling some what uncomfortable.

"I'm fine, thank you." Hearing the sounds of her other three children as they descended the staircase, she smiled and rose from her seat. Nick, rising as a sign of respect, showed her that he, was a well mannered and respectful young man.

"Mother? Oh I'm sorry, I didn't realize we had a guest." Audra said as she entered the parlor.

"Jarrod ... Audra ... Eugene ... please come in and meet ... our new hand, Heath hired him today."

Jarrod walked across the room and held out his hand, "Nice to meet you, I'm Jarrod."

Victoria watch Jarrod with amazed interest as he introduced himself. She saw the transformation … first the smile, then the wrinkled brow, 'He's thinking' she gathered, the light tilt of the head then the wide eyed realization that this young man looked familiar.

Nick nodded and took the hand, "Nick … Nick Thomson."

Jarrod released the hand and took a step back, a bewildered look on his face.

Eugene came forward, "I'm Eugene, nice to meet ya."

"Same here, Eugene." Nick gave a wide smile to his 'baby brother'.

Jarrod turned around and held out his hand to Audra, "And this pretty lady is our sister, Audra."

Audra stepped forward and held out her hand smiling brightly, "Very nice to meet you … Mr. Thomson."

Nick returned the smile and took the delicate hand in his large calloused one, "Nice to meet you … and it's Nick ... please."

Audra blushed a little and released her hand, "Alright Nick."

"Audra, please check and see if Silas is just about ready for dinner." Victoria asked gently.

"Yes, Mother." Audra gave a polite nod to their guest as she left.

Victoria and Jarrod shared a quick glance, she knew he would have questions and mentally prepared herself for the onslaught that would surely come once dinner was over and there dinner guest had left.

"I'm told you're a lawyer." Nick asked Jarrod to break the uncomfortable silence.

"Yes, I have a practice in both Stockton and San Francisco."

"Must be hard to travel between the two." Nick surmised.

"Sometimes. I try to spend as much time here as I can." Jarrod answered, his blue eyes were locked into the familiar hazel eyes.

"Hey Nick, you ever been to San Francisco?" Gene blurted.

"Yeah, couple of times. Didn't much care for it though. Too many people."

Heath made a face, "Yeah, I don't like it either. You can't walk around without bumping into someone."

"Well if you'd watch were you're going instead of looking at the girls … " Gene added with a snicker.

"I do not!" Heath answered steeling an embarrassed glance at his mother.

"Now Heath, having cross examined some of the best liars in the state of California, I'd have to say that … " Jarrod decided to join in the banter to relieve some of the stress he was feeling.

"Just never you mind, lawyer man."

Nick laughed at the bantering. He would have loved to get in the big middle of it, but felt he needed to keep some form of control before he was forced to reveal who and what he really was.

"Boys!" Victoria scolded, "My goodness, is that any way to act when we have a guest?"

Nick leaned over towards Heath, "I've bumped into quit a few people their myself." He finished with a sly wink.

Victoria caught the wink and sighed, 'He sure acts like a Barkley' she thought to herself. To Nick, she said, with a barely contained smile, "Please don't encourage them."

Jarrod and Gene, who had heard the whispered comment made to Heath, fought hard to control their own laughter.

"Sorry, Mrs. Barkley." Nick answered with a sheepish grin.

"Mother, dinner is ready." Audra said from the doorway. Seeing everyone fighting laughter she asked, "Did I miss something?"

Of course that's all it took to send the family into peals of laughter. One in particular rising from the rest. The deep joyous sound of a man long gone. Victoria fought tears through laughter, she had missed that laugh … Tom's laugh. To hear it again was like being blessed with a miracle. She prayed as they filed into the dinning room, that God and Tom would lead them to do the right thing. If this young man was who she thought he was, then she would do right by him, she would show him what this family was capable of. All that needs to happen now was for Nick to come forward and say what needed to be said. Victoria knew it wasn't going to be easy for them to hear, probably even harder for Nick to say, but it would all be out in the open. She would speak with Jarrod once everyone else was in bed, they would form a plan as to what to do once the information was given, then she would wait.

The waiting was going to be the hardest part.

Nick took the seat offered him and marveled at the amount of food before him. "Boy Mr. Silas, this sure looks good." He couldn't remember ever seeing so much food for only one family. Too often he went to bed hungry, even now, as a grown man, he seldom satisfied his hunger. Nick closed his eyes, remembering his Mama's words, 'be grateful for what God has put before you son, there are others who have even less.'

Silas grinned proudly, "Thank you, Mr. Thomson."

"Jarrod, would you please say grace?" Victoria requested. She reached across, to first grasp Audra's hand, then, held her hand out expectantly for Nick's.

Nick looked at her hand for a moment, then obediently took it. He felt Gene tap him on the arm, turning, he realized that he needed to take his hand too as well. Nick watched as everyone bowed their heads, he gave himself a moment to take in the family. They were fine people, good, God fearing people. 'Mama would've approved of them,' he thought. The family he had always wanted, but never in a million years thought he would have. Hearing Jarrod begin, he bowed and listened.

"Our Blessed God in Heaven, thank you for this bounty … thank you for Your continued grace and guidance and for the good health of those present here today. Thank you for the blessings that have taken place and for those that have not yet happened … " Jarrod looked up momentarily and smiled at Nick's bowed head then continued, "We will strive to do Your will … in Your holy name we pray. Amen."

"That was lovely, Dear." Victoria smiled.

Heath gave a quick 'Amen' then began filling his plate.

"Heath, your lack of manners is wearing thin … we … have … a … guest." Victoria scolded once again.

"I'm hungry." Heath defended himself, as he placed the bowl filled to overflowing with mashed potatoes back on the table. "Gene was doing it too." He added.

Gene guiltily place the bowl he had acquired back in it's place. "Sorry Mother. I guess I'm hungry too."

Victoria smiled fondly at her two youngest sons. So much alike but yet so different … turning to Nick, she saw him quickly remove a smile, "Mr. Thomson, please … help yourself."

Nick took the closest bowl, dipped a good portion on his plate, he hoped it wasn't too much, then passed it to Gene. Seeing that he had chosen the right direction in which to pass the food, he kept the routine until his plate could hold no more. "You eat like this every night?" Nick asked directing the question to Heath.

"Pretty much." Heath answered between chews.

Nick shook his head and smiled, "I reckon I won't be able to move much once I'm done with all this."

"Audra baked an apple pie for dessert … you better save room." Gene added.

Nick groaned as did Heath and Jarrod … though theirs was for a different reason. Gene looked up at the sounds and declared, "Hey, I like Audra's cooking."

"Gene, you like anything that doesn't bite back." Heath laughed.

Jarrod laughed at Nick's confused stare, "Audra's learning to cook and we ... " Jarrod motioned around the table, "are her victims."

"Victims!" Audra huffed, "I'll have you know that you … all … have only gotten sick once from something I've cooked."

Nick scratched his chin and looked down at his plate, "You didn't … uh … help with any of this, did you?"

Victoria watched Nick's mouth twitch … he was beginning to feel somewhat comfortable with them … enough to join in on the teasing.

Audra paused a moment then smiled, "Why yes I did."

Nick looked at Jarrod who pointed slyly to the small portion of potatoes and gravy on his own plate, darting his eyes around the table, he realized that everyone had small portions of the same item. Looking back down at the enormous mound of potatoes and gravy in front of him, he took an audible gulp. "Well, better to live dangerously than not to live at all I guess."

"Don't worry Nick, we keep a healthy supply of bicarbonate of soda on hand … just in case." Jarrod answered with a wink in Audra's direction to show he was, indeed, teasing.

"Boys, I fear Audra will never learn to cook with you as her … " She wanted to say victim's again but refrained, "with you teasing her so." Victoria hid a slight smile behind her napkin.

"Thank you, Mother." Seeing that Nick had taken a bite of the dish she had prepared, Audra waited for his reaction. "Well?"

Nick chewed, then swallowed … washing it down with a large drink of water from the glass in front of him. Seeing that he was being watched, he placed a smile on his face and said, "It's good … really."

Audra beamed at the compliment, "Well I'm glad someone appreciates my efforts."

"We all appreciate your effort, Audra … it's what happens afterward that I don't appreciate." Heath said feeling a kick under the table from his sister's direction, "Ow!"

"That's enough of that … please let's eat before our dinner gets cold." Victoria admonished.

The rest of the meal was spent with light conversation, quiet laughter, and silent contemplation. Finally, the last fork was put down and sighs of contentment's made their way around the table. "Let's retire to the family room for coffee and pie. Shall we?" Victoria offered as she pushed her chair back to rise. The rest followed suit, with Nick rushing to move the chair for Victoria as she rose. "Thank you kind sir." Victoria smiled.

Heath did the same for Audra as she stood. "Heath? Why thank you."

"You're welcome, Sis."

They followed the matriarch to the parlor and took a seat. Soon, Silas appeared with a tray bearing a silver pot, six cups and saucers, a bowl of sugar cubes and a small pitcher of cream. "Thank you, Silas." Victoria said.

"Yes Ma'am, I'll bring the pie in right away." Silas said as he placed the heavily ladened tray on the small table and disappeared, once again, through the door.

Victoria poured the coffee and handed the offerings to her family and guest. "Cream and sugar, Nick?"

"No thank you Ma'am, black is fine." He said taking the steaming cup. Nick watched Silas return with another tray, this one held the before promised apple pie cut neatly into six equal section and placed on dessert dishes. Silas walked toward him and lowered the tray. "Thank you." Nick said taking one of the small plates and a fork.

Nick knew that Audra was watching him … he knew that she expected him to say something about the pie since he had complemented her on the potatoes and gravy. Cutting into his piece of pie with his fork, he brought the bite to his mouth and ate. His eyes widened and he smiled, "This is delicious."

"Really?" Jarrod and Heath said in unison. Gene gave a muffled, MMmmmm Hmmmm as he put the last bite into his mouth.

"Gene, must you eat so fast? You're going to make yourself sick." Victoria grinned.

Nick smiled, so this is what his family was like, a fun, loving family … never a harsh word, none that were meant to hurt anyway. Not like Aunt Martha and Uncle Matt. 'You shiftless no good little bastard!' If Nick heard those words once, he heard them a thousand times, he pushed the thought from his mind. How was he going to go about telling them that he was Tom Barkley's illegitimate son? How was he going to say he was a Barkley without hurting them? These were the questions that weighed heavily on his mind and heart. He didn't want to tear this family apart, he just wanted them to know that he existed, to be given a chance to become one of them. He missed his other family terribly and longed to be a part of a family again. It had been too long, but the desire to reach out and grasp the brass ring was overshadowed by the desire to keep this family whole. He almost wished that they would have been crude, snobbish people who could care less about others … maybe that would have made it a little easier to tell them … a little less painful for him. If he would have come to them shortly after finding out, he would have entered the house an angry and bitter young man. He would have demanded his rightful place among them and damned the consequences, but life is never easy, he knew the right thing to do was to work through his feelings before confronting them. Which he did.

The conversation continued, small talk concerning the ranch glided from one person to the other. Nick listened intently to the information … the size of the ranch was staggering … the Barkley holding impressive. This was an empire among the wilderness and it made him proud that he could be a part of it.

Hearing the clock chime ten bells, Nick rose to his feet, "It's getting late," Turning to Victoria he continued, "Ma'am, I appreciate the meal and the chance to meet you." He said smiling.

"It was our pleasure, Mr. Thomson." Victoria smiled back.

Turning to Jarrod, Audra and Gene, Nick added, "It was very nice to meet you all … " then turning to Heath, "Boss, I reckon I'll be seeing you in the morning."

"Sure thing, Nick."

"Bye Nick." Audra waved.

"It was nice to meet you, Nick." Gene added.

Jarrod walked Nick to the door, "You come back and visit anytime, you're always welcome here." Jarrod said slapping Nick on the back.

Nick nodded and walked out the door. 'Always welcomed.' Nick smiled to himself … sounds like that lawyer man had an idea about something. Walking to the bunk house, Nick's step was light and full of hope.

Duke meet Nick at the door, "How did it go?" Duke asked.

"You were right, Duke. They are good people." With a face splitting grin, Nick patted Duke on the shoulder and went inside.

"So are you, Nick ... so are you."

* * * * * * * *

Back at the main house, the three youngest Barkleys were bidding goodnight to Victoria and Jarrod. Watching them ascend the grand staircase, Jarrod walked casually to the sideboard and, without asking, poured himself and Victoria a drink. "Mother, it seems that you have something on your mind."

"Yes Jarrod," She started as she accepted the drink, "Thank you, dear … " Pausing to gather her thoughts, Jarrod was always her closest confident, and could almost always read his mother, she continued, "Let me ask you a question first."

"Yes Mother?"

"What was your first impression of Mr. Thomson?"

"My first impression?" Jarrod sat down to ponder the thought for a moment, "He seems very nice … a bit quiet maybe … rather uncomfortable at first, I thought. I guess meeting your employers would be rather … nerve wracking … "

"Jarrod, I think you know what I mean." Victoria gently chided.

Sighing, Jarrod knew there wasn't much, even he could hide, from this formidable lady, he continued, "I was rather shocked at first … his looks … well, he reminds me of Uncle Jonathan … "

Victoria nodded her head, "What else?"

"His smile … the photo that Father kept on his desk of Uncle Jonathan … he has … his … smile." Jarrod frowned a little deep in thought, "And Nick's laugh … for a moment I thought Father was in the room." He said wistfully.

Victoria smiled sadly, "Yes it was quit startling for me too."

"Mother, I'm not going to pretend I know what's happening, other than it appears that, Nick Thomson, could very well be a Barkley, in some way. Am I right?"

"Yes." Victoria answered, with a trace of sadness in her voice.

"And, would I assume, that he's not Uncle Jon's son?" Jarrod said with a tilt of his head.

"You would assume right."

Placing his glass on the side table, Jarrod went on, "Mother, are you telling me that Nick is Father's son?"

"Yes, Jarrod … that is exactly what I'm saying."

"You can't possibly believe that. How do you know for sure?"

"I don't … for sure … but I do have some information to tell you, that would explain my suspicions … if you would indulge me a moment."

"I'm listening, Mother," he said resignly.

"Jarrod, 27 years ago, your father and I had lost a child, your brother, to the fever. It was a terrible experience … Tom and I had difficulty getting past the tragedy … I was mournful and distant, and your father, was angry at the world. He left soon after, because we were having problems with one of the Barkley mines, I think he welcomed the distraction … he was gone close to three months. When he returned he was troubled … I knew something had happened so I pushed him to tell me. He did." Victoria took a deep breath, then continued, "Jarrod, please understand that I forgave him many years ago. He explained to me what had happened, and, even though it hurt, I was not about to lose the man I loved. We would sit up nights and talk about it. I had problems about trusting, and he understood that. He had broken that trust, and he had to work very hard to gain my trust back."

"Mother, what are you trying to avoid telling me?"

"Tom had an affair."

"What did you say? An affair? That's preposterous!"

"Jarrod … please." Victoria pleaded.

"I'm sorry, Mother. Please continue."

"The mine he went to check out was located in Strawberry … the women he had the affair with … her name was Leah Thomson."

Jarrod stood and began to pace, "Nick's mother?"

"Yes … I believe so."

"But why did he … Father would never do that to you." Jarrod reasoned.

"He did son; but he told me what happened and I believed him."

"What did happen?"

"He had been mugged, and left for dead. Leah Thomson found him, and nursed him back to health. Jarrod, he didn't know who he was … he couldn't remember anything … not even his name."

"Amnesia?"

"Yes. His memory eventually returned, but Leah had already fallen in love with him … they had shared a bed, but once his memory returned, he told me that he immediately told her that he had a wife and a child he loved dearly and that he was very sorry. Your father was an honorable man, he felt true remorse for what he had done, to me, as well as to Leah. We discussed the possibility of a child, but Tom felt that Leah would've contacted him if … " Victoria absently swiped a tear from her cheek, "We heard nothing. Jarrod, we should have made sure … should have at least tried to find out … but we didn't, and a young man suffered for it. Can you imagine what his life was like growing up?"

"I would assume it would have been difficult, but Mother, we don't know for sure."

"No son, we don't … we'll have to wait for Mr. Thomson to come forward with the information. I don't want to push him, Jarrod. If he is, in fact Tom's son, I want him to feel comfortable here. I want him to find what he's looking for."

"A home." Jarrod said sadly.

"Yes, but more than that … A family; he deserves a family."

"I would have thought he would be bitter … angry … but, he didn't seem that way to me."

"Dear, we don't know what his life was truly like. Something like this can either turn a man into a bitter, angry person, or it could make a confident and proud man, who had to fight for his place in this world. Mr. Thomson seems like the confident and proud type to me."

"You think he was just testing the waters, so to speak?"

"That's it, exactly."

"What are you going to do if or when he tells us he's father's son?"

"Listen."

"It could get ugly."

"I'm prepared for that. I don't doubt that he may carry some anger about the situation … but I don't think he came here to hurt us."

"No, I don't think so either. However, there's still Heath, Audra and Gene to consider. When are you going to tell them?"

"I would like to wait, and see what Mr. Thomson's intentions are, before I bring them into this."

"Understood." Jarrod agreed, frowning.

"Jarrod please don't harbor any ill will towards your father. He loved you and he loved his family. Let's honor that memory by doing the right thing."

Jarrod smiled slightly, "You're right, Mother. With your permission, however, I would like to do a little investigating. Possibly hire the Pinkerton Agency."

"That's fine. I think the more we know about Mister Nick Thomson, the better."

"I'll leave first thing in the morning for Stockton. I'll have the inquiries sent before I get home."

Jarrod said, giving his mother a light kiss on the cheek.

"Thank you, dear." Victoria said as she turned to leave.

"Mother?"

"Yes?" Victoria asked as she turned back to face Jarrod.

"I love you." Jarrod said as he stepped forward and gave his mother a loving hug. "We'll get through this."

"I know we will … I love you, too." Victoria cried as she held her son tight.

* * * * * * * *

After bidding Duke a goodnight, Nick walked into the bunkhouse, seeing that most of the hands were already asleep and snoring … loudly … he made his way to the bunk in the far corner. He wasn't one for sharing rooms, he didn't like having so many people around him … he would have been happier with a bedroll to sleep on and the moon and stars for company. 'At least they don't snore.' He thought as he readied for bed.

Nick settled himself into the bunk. Sometimes the night was the best and worst of times; because, he tended to do his best thinking at night, but in exchange, he would lose sleep. Those were the nights his mind would grasp something and gnaw on it like a dog with a bone. Nick took a deep breath. It was a hard working day, but a good day all the same, one thing his Mama taught her little boy was to never be afraid of hard work, 'Hark work make's a man out of you, son.' Once Nick got settled, his mind began to take stock of the events of the evening … thoughts and feelings began to make themselves known, especially thoughts he didn't want to have; pushed themselves forward.

'Just who are you, boy?' the voice in his head sneered.

Nick thought long and hard about it but didn't answer.

'You actually think these fine folks are going to accept what you say at face value?'

Nick inwardly flinch at the question, "Why wouldn't they?" He asked himself quietly.

'You think they're going to accept a bastard … a mistake?'

Nick grew angry at the voice, "I'm not a mistake!"

The voice in his head laughed evilly, 'Then what are you?'

Nick's rage was building, "I'm not a mistake!"

'They're going to turn their backs on you … they're going to pretend you don't exist … shun you.' The tormenting voice warned.

"No they won't." Nick answered, closing his eyes.

'They're going to think you're only here for the money, for part of the empire the old man built, for them, not you!" The voice spat.

"I'm not."

'They'll call you a liar.'

"Stop it!" Nick mentally yelled.

'Stop what? Stop telling the truth?!"

"They wouldn't … "

'They will? You lying bastard!'

"I'm not lying!" Nick defended himself from the sharp words that cut into his heart.

'Tom Barkley never wanted you! He never gave you a thought!'

"He didn't know about me!"

'He didn't care to know about you! No one in that fine house is going to care about Tom Barkley's mistake.'

"What should I do?"

'You should leave … leave before they find out the truth.'

"I can't leave."

'Yes … you can.'

"I won't leave."

'You've been leaving things behind your whole worthless life … what makes this any different?'

"I'm not going to leave this … "

'Just who the hell are you, boy?!' The voice screamed at him again.

"I'm Tom Barkley's bastard son!" Nick raged inwardly.

The voice laughed victorious.

Nick rose to sit on the edge of his bunk, putting his head in his hands he fought the inner demon that was his conscience. He forced his hands to push the demon's sinister cackling out of his head. 'Get out! get out of my head! I don't want to hear you no more! I have to think! Let me think!' The walls of the bunkhouse began to close in. Nick needed to breathe the fresh air. He couldn't stand to be inside any longer. He had to get out, he had to think, he had to leave. Nick stood, got dressed, and quickly made his way to the door. He walked to the corral were Coco was held and paused at the gate, unsure of himself, of his next move. Coco ambled over and hung his head over the rail. Nick patted his long time friend, "What do I do, Coco, old boy? Ya got any ideas pal?" He whispered.

Coco snorted and nuzzled the hand. "Yeah … you're right, boy."

Nick waited for the voice to return and was amazed at its silence. The beating he had received at his own hands was merciless, one of many he had inflicted on himself since finding out he had a name … a real name. Nick had always been his worse critic … he remembered the voice as a child, though not as forceful, and later as a young adult in the war. The voice helped him to survive one of the worst hells imaginable, gave him the strength to fight for his life and come out a stronger man for it. Now, however, it seems that the ever present little voice had turned to doubt, it had become an opponent instead of an ally. Nick hated doubt, hated the direction the voice took him when it was in full swing. He knew he didn't come here for money, or power or revenge … but they didn't. They may very well think those things once he revealed his secret. Did he want to take that chance … but he knew he wouldn't be able to sleep nights not knowing.

"Damn the voice!" Nick cursed. "Why can't you just leave me alone!" Finally he made a decision, Nick squared his shoulders, now he knew what he had to do. Walking briskly to were Coco's blanket and saddle hung, he took the items and quickly saddled his faithful companion. Coco felt the urgency and stood still as his master readied his escaped from the damnable doubt that lingered through his tired mind. Tightening the cinch, Nick mounted. Throwing a sad smile over his shoulder, he gently urged Coco forward and disappeared down the moon lit road possibly leaving behind the future that could have been, would have been his if only. "If only." Nick thought to himself.

The moonlight ride somewhat eased Nick's troubled thoughts. As he ambled on, the feeling that he was doing the right thing gently slipped from his mind and was soon replaced by the ever present voice. So wrapped up with his inner thoughts, he neither saw or heard the person leave the yard moments after he left.

'I thought you were going to fight this?' The voiced asked.

"I thought you wanted me to leave?"

Nick stopped his horse and climbed down. Walking to a small clearing, he loosely tied Coco's reins to a branch and sat down beside him. "I don't know what's expected of me, part of me wants to stay but then part of me want to go." Nick looked up at the stars as if they could give him direction, "I want to get to know them, but I can't cause them any pain. Hell, I've only known them less than a day and I can already feel a … " Nick furrowed his brow in thought, "a connection, I feel complete. I've met the family I've always longed to be a part of … it's not fair."

The stalker stepped into the shadows and waited. Listening intently to the one sided conversation.

'You've come a long way.' the voice continued.

"You sound like you want me to go back."

'I'm your conscience, I'm suppose to be the voice of reason.'

Nick snorted, "You're a pain in my backside."

'Still, I had to show you what could happen … show you that you hadn't worked through all of your anger. You're still very angry.'

"I wasn't till I started thinking … "

'About them?" The voice finished.

"Yeah." Nick ran a hand through his hair, "I must be going crazy … sittin' here talkin' to myself."

'Who else is there to talk to?'

"Heath … Jarrod … Mrs. Barkley … Duke. I can talk to any or all of them if I need to."

'Then why don't you? Are you afraid?'

Nick gave a louder snort, "No."

'Then what?'

"I'm … "

'Afraid. Ask yourself this question.'

"What?"

'Would your life be better off without them?'

Nick thought about how to answer that question. It was one that he had asked himself many times since finding out the truth. Would he be better off without them. He'd done pretty well on his own, he'd survived working in the mines, the war, a prison … did he need the Barkleys in his life? Or would they simply slow him down or turn him in a direction he didn't want to go. Nick felt free, he could choose when to leave a place and never look back … at the Barkley's ranch, he would have no such a luxury. If he told them … if they accepted what he said, he would feel the need to explain himself even if it wasn't necessary. He would not have the freedom to come and go as he pleased, to go where ever the wind leads him. Still, Nick knew that what he could gain would be so much more. A family to care about him, to help him when he needed it, to fight the demons that haunted his dreams. To give him love and respect … a home and a name. Finally, a real name. After several long minutes, he answered, "No … it wouldn't!"

The voice laughed softly, 'No … your right.'

"Where were you earlier this evening?" Nick asked smiling.

'I've been right here … inside you. You needed to see both sides of the coin. It's not going to be easy … but it won't be as hard as you think either. You're Nick Barkley and nothing anyone can say will change that.'

"I'm Tom Barkley's son." Nick corrected.

"Who are you?'

Nick smiled, realizing what his inner voice was trying to get him to say, "I'm Nick Barkley!" Nick yelled with a laugh.

The visitor straightened at the declaration. Taking soft steps, he walked closer.

'Then what are you doing sittin' here? Get back to bed and tomorrow, you'll tell them.'

Nick stood and brushed at his pant legs, "Now that's good advice."

"Who ya talking to, Nick?" Heath asked as he came out of the shadows, a look of betrayal on his face.

Nick startled at the intrusion, "Boss, I didn't … " Nick narrowed his eyes, "How long you been standing there?"

"Long enough."

Nick frown, "I reckon you got some questions then." Nick felt his body tense, his fists tightened automatically.

"You could say that." Heath said, as he curled his right fist and let it fly, catching Nick in the jaw.

Nick laid in the soft grass, "I don't want to fight you, boy." He wiped the trickle of blood from the corner of his mouth.

"Get up!"

"How did you find me?" Nick grumbled as he stood up.

I thought I heard someone with the horses, I went down the backstairs and through the kitchen. Saw you out there saddling your horse, so I followed you."

"Why?"

"I … I don't know. Figured you was leaving, thought I could change your mind."

"You know?"

"I heard you. Don't much believe it though."

"It's the truth. I'm a … "

"Barkley … " Heath finished, "Just cause you say it, doesn't mean it the truth."

Nick had been more concerned about telling Heath more than anyone else. In the one day they had spent together, Nick felt a friendship with the young man. He didn't want it to be like this. "I have proof."

"You need to leave."

"Look, I've already been through this, in a matter of speakin', and I think it needs to be told." Nick said.

"I don't want to hear your proof, I don't want hear anything … You came in here knowing the truth and said nothing to nobody!"

"I wanted to get to know you … all of you, first."

"Does my mother know?"

"I think she suspects. I haven't said anything to her yet."

Heath sat down with a heavy sigh.

"Heath, I didn't come here to hurt you … any of you, I just wanted to meet you and get to know you. I wanted to meet the family I never had a chance to know."

Heath looked up with pain filled eyes, "Why now?"

"I've only known a few months. I needed time to … I don't know … work through it."

"Who else knows?"

"Duke, he recognized me from a picture he saw once. Said I looked like someone named Jonathan."

Heath nodded his head, "Uncle Jon, that's Father's brother."

"Said something about I laughed like your father, too."

Heath looked at Nick closely, he could tell that this man didn't come here to hurt any of them. He saw the truth in Nick's eyes as he spoke. Though his mind screamed that this wasn't true, his heart told him otherwise. He felt something when Nick rode up to them while working on the fence line. It was an instant liking of the man that had caused him to want to forge a friendship. Heath remembered, clearly, his father's words, 'don't do anything that goes against your heart, son. You'll always regret it.' Well his heart told him to believe this man's story. He, too, had heard the laugh, but quickly dismissed it as missing his father and wishing he were there. "You won't hurt them?"

"I didn't come here to hurt anybody."

Heath stood slowly, "I guess you better come back with me … "

"You believe me?" Nick asked grabbing Coco's reins.

"Some, I s'pose. I want to hear what mother has to say." Heath answered as he mounted Charger. Nick nodded and climbed into the saddle, the weight of worry no longer heavy in his heart. He was going back to face his family. Nick hoped that the connection was strong, that they would see him as he saw them. They were kind gentle people with a fierce sense of loyalty and love. They were held together with a bond so strong, nothing on this earth could break it. He wanted to be a part of that bond, to feel the strength the bond supplied. As Nick and Heath rode closer to the house, the soft welcoming glow of the lamps out front filled his heart with an unexpected warmth. Soon, he would be in that house, sharing stories and drinking brandy with his brothers, sister and step-mother in his father's home.

Once the chore of tending their horses was finished, Heath led Nick into the house. "Wait here." Heath ordered as he climbed the stairs.

"Whoa, hold on there!" Seeing Heath turn he went on, "You're gonna wake 'em all up? It's almost midnight!"

Heath was so shaken about the turn of events that evening, that he failed to notice how late it really was, "No … I don't guess that would be a good idea. I know Mother and Jarrod got to bed late … but if she suspects … like you say … I doubt she's getting much sleep."

"You would be right, son." Victoria spoke softly from the top of the stairs.

"Mother, I'm sorry to wake you." Heath said with a small frown.

"You didn't wake me, dear." Victoria looked at Nick and smiled, "Mr. Thomson."

"Ma'am." Nick nodded respectfully.

"Mother … I don't know how to say this … "

"No need, I know, dear. Please, let's go into the parlor and talk, shall we?" Victoria said calmly as she descended the stairs.

"Do you want me to wake the others?" Heath asked as he took his mother's hand.

"No, Heath. I would like to hear what Mr. Thomson has to say … but I think I know what it's about. Why don't you go on up to bed … I would like to have a word with Mr. Thomson, in private."

"Mother, I don't think it's a good idea for you … "

"Heath, please dear. Do as you're told, I'll be fine, I promise."

"Yes mother." Heath answered, shooting Nick a look that spoke of pain should he hurt his mother. The warning glare did not go unnoticed by the tall, dark cowboy.

After seating themselves in the parlor, sharing the settee, Victoria began, "Mr. Thomson … "

"The name's Nick … please … Ma'am."

Victoria gave Nick a sad smile, "Very well, Nick then. Please tell me what you know to be true." Nick was somewhat startled by her directness. No beating around the bush with this lady, she got straight to the point, he liked that. Trying to form his words, Nick began, "Well Ma'am, it seems that … your husband and … and my mother, well, ah, I don't how to put this, without hurting you, but … "

"I understand, you may find this troubling, but I knew that my Tom and your mother, Leah, had an affair. I've known it for many years now." Victoria's voice caught in a breath.

"You know my mother's name? You knew what happen, all this time?" Nick could feel his anger rising again.

"Yes. Tom told me everything, when he returned from Strawberry."

"Forgive me, Ma'am … but you seem awfully calm about the whole thing." Nick said with a hint of suspicion.

"Believe me, Nick … I was not calm 27 years ago, but I forgave Tom, he's only human and, as much as we hate to admit it, humans do make mistakes."

Nick cringed at the word mistake. He was always referred to as a mistake by Uncle Matt, Aunt Martha and the righteous citizens of Strawberry.

Victoria became aware of her voiced error and immediately regretted her words, "Oh Nick, I wasn't referring to you as the mistake, I'm only saying that my husband was not perfect man, he had his weaknesses. You can't fault a man for being human." Victoria laid a gentle hand on Nick's, "I forgave him a long time ago … I loved him … I still do and I will never think ill of him for something I forgave him for. We can only go forward."

Nick marveled at the gentle ways of this woman. She was a strong willed woman with a sense of decency that was rare in this day and age. "I was angry when my mama first told me who he was, I guess I still am a little. He was a powerful man, with a nice house, fine family and money. I grew up with nothing, Mrs. Barkley. I wanted to come here and demand what was rightfully mine!"

"But you don't seem that way now, what changed your mind?"

"I read the letter your husband had written my mama, it was dated after I was born. He didn't know about me. At least I don't think he did, unless he found out later."

"He didn't know, Nick. I can assure you of that."

"I grew up thinking my father didn't want me, I didn't know who he was, but I hated him for leaving us alone. When I found out who he was and what he was … well, let's just say it wasn't pretty and leave it at that. I guess, growing up without a father, I started realizing that I had made it this far; hell, I mean, heck, sorry ma'am, I didn't know why I was getting angry. There was nothing I could do to change it, so I started asking questions, did some checking and found out what I could about his family."

"Your family." Victoria added.

Nick gave Victoria a genuine smile, "Yes ma'am, my family. I wanted to meet you. I wasn't gonna stay. I just wanted to see what you all were like and let you know that I existed. I never meant to come here and cause anyone trouble."

"You mean you hadn't any intention of staying?" Victoria asked with a hint of surprise.

"No Ma'am, I hadn't planned on it." Nick said with a shrug. "Nick, I know that this may all be rather … overwhelming, but you've impressed me … you spoke of me being calm, but you also have a kind and forgiving nature. You're mother must have been a wonderful woman to have taken such care in raising a son like you."

"I appreciate that, Ma'am. She did her best. God knows I didn't always make it easy for her, I just wish … "

"You wish you could have shared your life with your father and his family."

"No … yes … I don't know." Nick gave his head a small shake, "I wish I could have known about you and you about me. I would have liked to have met my father and got to know him like you all do, is all"

"You're here now, and that's what's important."

"I don't think Heath would agree with that. I think he's gonna buck."

"Nick, Heath is young, he idolized his father, but he also inherited much of his father's common sense and decency. He understands more than you think, give him and this family more credit than that. We're not so high and mighty that we cannot except something of this nature. Heath is a very hard worker, but he's young, and the responsibilities of running a ranch this size weighs heavy on him. You may very well be a Godsend to him."

"You mean a partner to work beside him?" Nick said quietly.

"No, dear … a brother, to be there for him."

"You really believe that?" Nick said amazed.

"Yes, I do. Please don't take anything Heath may say in anger as truth. My children will be shocked, and yes, hurt and angry, but not at you. They will see it in time and change their way of thinking."

"I'm not so sure I want to hang around and wait for those changes." Nick said with a chuckle.

"Jarrod knows, in fact we spoke of it just this night. He was shocked, but he knows what needs to be done, and he will do it."

"Mrs. Barkley, I don't want to seem ungrateful to you, but I still don't see this being all that easy. One family member on my side … "

"Two." Victoria interrupted.

"All right, two, that's still odds I wouldn't bet on, and there's still Heath, Audra and Gene."

"You're already thinking like a brother. You're worried about their feelings, but missing the big picture. They will gain something from this and so will you, that is, if you have Tom Barkley's guts," the matriarch challenged.

Nick thought about what was said, "You are something lady," he smiled and shook his head. "I best be going, it's gettin' late."

"Perhaps you would like to stay in one of the guest rooms."

"No Ma'am, I think I'll get back to the bunkhouse."

"Very well, but I do expect you here tomorrow evening, after work, so that we can discuss this as a family, together."

"Yes Ma'am." Nick walked to the door, Victoria stood right behind him. Turning he said, "I do appreciate it … I wasn't expectin' this."

"I guess I could say the same about you." Victoria laughed.

Nick tilted his head and grinned, "Yes Ma'am, I guess you could."

"Goodnight, Nick."

"Night, Ma'am." Nick left, looking forward to finally getting his say with the Barkley family and dreading the reaction he would receive once it was in the open. Would Heath and he be able to work together tomorrow before the meeting. Would Heath be able to put aside his differences and get along? Question after question ran through Nick's tired mind, as he laid in his bunk. He would make it a point to get along, and not cause any friction during the work day … the family meeting would be bad enough. Nick decided; then, Victoria's words began to filter through his thoughts, "Did she say discuss it together as a family? Did she mean me too?" He would just have to wait and see.

* * * * * * * *

Dread hung heavily around Nick as he left the bunkhouse the next morning. He spied Heath speaking to Duke and stopped, not wanting to interrupt. Soon, Duke nodded his head and turned to round up the hands for their daily work assignments. "Okay men, gather round." Duke ordered. Nick stood where he was and watched Heath, his little brother. Still, it was hard to believe that it wasn't a dream. Heath turned and for a moment their eyes locked. A silent battle waged between the two, neither knowing what to say. Nick could tell that Heath was leery, sizing up the man before him, he also noticed a hint of … fear? No, not fear … more like unease … suspicion … anger … maybe hope? … But never fear. Realizing that Heath wasn't going to make a move, Nick sighed and joined the group surrounding Duke.

"Nick, Barrett, Mitch, you'll go with me today. We're gonna check out the north pasture."

"More fences?" Barrett complained.

"Yep, more fences. Heath is gonna take a crew and get them started on the line shack in the south pasture. It's needin' a lot of work."

So the day started. Nick worked well with Duke, but he was not impressed with Barrett or Mitch. They seemed to do more jawin' than workin. Nick had not missed the fact that Heath was avoiding contact with him, he came once to check on their progress but spoke only to Duke then left. 'I wish he'd just slug me and get it over with'." Nick though wearily to himself. Nicks thoughts were interrupted, again, by Barrett's voice.

"Hey Nick, you coming to the get together Friday night?" Barrett asked.

"Get together?"

Duke smiled, "Yeah, the boys are gonna take the Boss to the saloon for his birthday."

"Friday's payday, Nick … we each chip in a little and tie one on." Mitch added.

"Well, reckon I could. Don't much think I'll get paid Friday, only been here a couple of days."

"Don't matter. You can drink with me." Duke winked. Nick nodded appreciatively.

"Great, now get to work and quit your yakkin." Duke admonished jovially.

All too soon, the fence was mended and the wagon loaded. Duke noticed Nick had been distant throughout the day and ventured to ask him, "Nick, something botherin' ya?" He asked.

"Nope, just thinkin' is all"

"Seems you been thinkin' most of the day." Duke scratched at his stubbly chin, "Today the big day?"

Nick gave Duke a look of amazement, then nodded, "Yeah, 'spose ta have a meeting with the family after Dinner."

"That a good thing, Nick. Isn't that what ya wanted?"

Nick nodded slowly, "Yes, it is … I had a talk with Mrs. Barkley last night."

"How'd she take it?"

"Fine … fine … the meetin' was her idea." Nick pondered whether or not to tell Duke the rest. He decided that he would keep nothing from his friend, he continued, "Heath knows. Found out last night."

"Figured he did. He seemed a little … tense today."

"Duke, I just don't want ta cause any trouble … maybe … "

"If'n your gonna say you should leave, then you've done all this for nothing. You've found your family, boy. Ain't nothin' wrong with wantin' a family." Duke thought a moment, "Seems ta me half the battle is won."

"How so?"

"If Mrs. Barkley knows and is 'fine with it' as you say, then the rest will come in due time. Don't rush it, Nick."

"How'd you get so blame smart, old man?" Nick said with a grin.

"Comes with age, boy … now come on, we need ta get you cleaned up and fed so's we can get ya to your comin' out party."

Nick shook his head and chuckled, "You are something, you know that?"

"Yep, but don't reckon anyone's gonna tell me what that something is. Hope it's good." Duke gave Nick's shoulder a slap, "Now let's get."

The ride back to the bunkhouse was done in silence. Nick's mind whirled with questions he thought his new siblings would ask and answers he could give them that would be acceptable. Though he had no idea what they might ask, he placed himself in their position. He imagined how angry he would be at finding out what his father had done, lashing out at the only person left to receive the feelings. Nick knew he would have to defend himself and stand his ground or all could be lost. "Show some of Tom Barkley's guts" Nick thought, remembering Mrs. Barkley's challenge of the night before, 'I can do that.' He decided.

Finally, they entered the yard. Duke pulled the wagon to the barn to be unloaded and they made quick work of it. Taking care of their mounts, they walked inside and cleaned up, ate and cleared the table. Nick hovered at the door, in his hand he clutched the box that held his proof, and stared at the main house. Smoothing his white shirt, he looked over his shoulder at Duke, who gave him a smile and a wink.

Nick pulled the old, worn watch from his pocket to check the time. "7:45, they should be ready for me … I hope."

Stretching himself up to his full height, he walked confidently to the front door, knocked and waited for the kindly houseman to answer. The door open and a bright, friendly smile greeted him, "Mr. Thomson, please come in, they're expecting you."

"Mr. Silas." Nick nodded as he handed him his hat.

"This way, Mr. Thomson."

Nick entered the parlor and noticed the family was all there. Victoria stood and greeted him with a smile of encouragement. "Nick, do come in please."

"Mrs. Barkley." Nick greeted.

Jarrod walked over and shook his hand, a sad, knowing smile on his face. "Nick, glad you could come."

"Thank ya Mr. Barkley."

Audra and Eugene each greeted Nick but both clearly didn't know what the meeting was about. Nick looked at Victoria. "I didn't tell them anything, Nick, only that we were having a family meeting and that you would be included."

Nick heard a snort from Heath, who was standing by the fire place. "Yes Ma'am."

"Have a seat, Nick. Would you like a drink?" Jarrod asked, handing him a brandy.

"Sure, thanks." Nick stated, taking the drink. He prayed he didn't look as nervous as he felt. He wanted to gulp the hot liquid down in one swallow to calm his nerves, but took a polite sip instead.

"Children, I called this meeting because I … we, Nick, Jarrod and I, need to explain something to you. I will tell you that the news you are about to hear is going to be unsettling, but please do not interrupt us. Once we are done, you may ask questions, or voice your opinion … but you will hear us out. Understood?" Victoria stated giving each of her children a look that broached no argument.

"Yes, Mother." They agreed.

"Good. I will begin by telling you that, 27 years ago … your father and I suffered through a great tragedy. Our son, at six months old, died of the fever. We were devastated."

"Oh Mother." Audra gasped.

Victoria gave Audra a sad smile, "Your father and I had … difficulties at that time, I found it hard to get over such a loss. I dealt with it by closing myself in my room for some time. Your father chose to bury himself in his work. A problem came up with one of your father's mine holdings and he had to go on a trip … to Strawberry. He was gone for three months."

Heath's eyes narrowed.

"During Tom's time in Strawberry, he was robbed, beaten and left for dead. A young woman found him and nursed him back to health. He had no memory of who he was, he stayed with this young woman and developed … feelings for her. Later, Tom began to regain his memory and realized that he had a wife and family, whom he loved dearly." Victoria looked to Jarrod, tears brimming her expressive eyes.

Jarrod walked over and gave his mother's shoulder a gentle squeeze. Victoria patted Jarrod's hand, "When your father came home, he was troubled, when I pressed him … he told me that he had been with another woman."

Audra's quiet sobs floated across the room. Eugene sat ramrod straight in his chair and stared, dumbfounded at his mother. Heath growled and turned away.

"Let me continue for you, Mother." Jarrod stated.

Seeing his mother's nod, Jarrod took up where she left off, "Mother forgave father his indiscretions many years ago."

"You knew about this?" Heath growled.

"Not until last night." Jarrod answered, "Now, if I may … "

"Jarrod, I'm fine now. I'll continue."

"Yes, Mother."

"I forgave your father. He did not do it intentionally. I believe that with all my heart. Once he found out what he was doing, he told the young woman who he was and why they couldn't … continue their relationship. Tom said she understood, not wanting to come between our family." Victoria was interrupted by Nick.

"Her name was Leah Thomson, my mother." Nick stated flatly.

"Yes, I'm sorry Nick. I didn't mean … "

"I know Ma'am. I just don't want anyone to think … She was a fine, God fearing woman." Nick didn't want any of them to think she was some mining camp whore who took in stray men for food and money.

"I'm sure she was Nick, I didn't mean to imply differently." Victoria continued. "Your father and I discussed the possibility of a child, but we heard nothing from … Leah and assumed that none had been conceived." Victoria noticed Audra and Eugene blush at the comment.

Gene looked to Nick, "You're … you're father's son?"

"Yes."

"Our brother?" Audra added.

"Half-brother, yes." Nick answered.

"It's a damn lie!" Heath stormed, "Your lying, father would never … "

"Heath Morgan Barkley, you will hold your tongue!" Victoria scolded.

Nick stood his ground as Heath walked towards him, "What do you want? Money? Here take this and get the hell out of my house!" Heath threw a wad of money at Nick and watched as it hit the floor.

"I don't want money!" Nick said, trying to curb his rising anger.

Heath narrowed his eyes, "Then what!"

Nick's own eyes narrowed, "Now boy, if you don't know that!"

Jarrod caught Heath's arm as it raised to strike the first blow, "None of that! Heath calm down!"

Heath jerked his arm free, "You believe him?" Seeing Jarrod nod he turned to Victoria, "And you? Why? He's nothing but a lying..."

"Heath please! If you would calm down, I will explain it to you." Victoria said quietly to ease the moment.

Heath huffed and turned to take his place back at the mantle.

"Mother?" Gene started.

"Dear please, let me finish."

"Sorry."

"I'm sure you all remember the photograph your father kept on his desk?"

"The one of father and his brother, Jonathan?" Audra asked.

"Yes, that's the one." Victoria answered.

Jarrod stepped up, "Did you notice that Nick bears a striking resemblance to our uncle Jon?"

Nick shuffled uncomfortably as Audra and Gene inspected him. After a moment, Gene spoke up. "He looks a little like uncle Jon. That don't mean nothing." Eugene loved his brother, Heath and wanted to show his loyalty.

"It's more than that … Gene. He looks alot like uncle Jon … you just don't want to see it." Audra stated coldly.

"And you do!"

"No … " Audra's voice rose, "but I do see it!"

"Children, please." Victoria pleaded.

Jarrod's eyebrows rose as he shot his younger siblings a scolding look, "Did you not hear Nick's laughter the other night he was here? Didn't any of you notice at all?" Jarrod looked Gene right in the eye, "Gene?"

"Yes, I heard it."

"Audra?

"Yes. It sounded like … " Realization dawn at that moment and her small hand flew to her mouth, "Father." She whispered behind the delicate fingers.

"That don't mean nothing." Heath said bitterly.

"It means everything, Heath and you know it."

"Do I? Tell me Jarrod, why are you so quick to accept this drifter as our blood!?"

"Because Mother believes him and I believe in Mother. She was there when father came home and confessed to being unfaithful. She was the one that had to live with the heartache of knowing that her husband had been with another woman. And now she has to live with the fact that a child was born and left behind, with no father … no name, living, only God knows what kind of life … "

"I know the answer to that." Nick interrupted sullenly.

Jarrod turned, seeing the pain in Nick's eyes, he nodded. "Yes, could you please tell us?"

Nick looked to Victoria for guidance, "Nick, if you would rather not … "

"No Ma'am." Nick cleared his throat and gave his ear a thoughtful tug, "We were poor. Plain and simple. I had to work in the mines as a youngun'. My mother worked hard trying to provide for both of us."

"Exactly what kind of work did your Mama do to provide for you cowboy? Or do any of us really have to ask?" Nick gritted his teeth and his fists balled up as he began to move toward Heath.

"Heath! I'm sorry Nick, please continue. I promise you won't be interrupted again." Victoria shot a warning look to her blond son.

Nick took a cleansing breath before he continued again. "It wasn't easy … far from it." Before she died," Nick swallowed the lump in his throat, "she told me who my father was. She gave me this box." Nick placed the box on the table, "It's all I have of hers."

"May I?" Victoria asked as she reached for the box.

Nick nodded his approval.

Victoria leaned forward and gently opened the box. The first thing she saw was the photograph. Smiling sweetly, she asked, "This is your mother?"

"Yes, Ma'am."

"She was very beautiful."

"Thank you, Ma'am."

Jarrod looked over her shoulder, "And father," he said surprised.

Victoria swiped at a tear and nodded, "Yes dear, and your father."

Audra and Gene both got up and knelt next to Victoria, "Oh Mother." Audra spoke in a soothing tone.

"I'm fine dear." Victoria gave the photograph one last, long look and placed it gently on the table. She then took out the handkerchief, clearly remembering the time she had made the monogrammed cloth for Tom as a Christmas gift. She noticed a folded letter, but didn't pull it out, instead, she reverently picked up a tie pin and cradled it in the palm of her hand. "This was your Father's." She smiled fondly remembering the day he rushed her into the small shop in San Francisco to buy Victoria her first pearl necklace. She had seen the tie pin and told her husband how smart he would look in something so elegant, but yet so simple. Victoria remember the sweet kiss on the cheek he had given her as he purchased the necklace along with the gold tie pin. Victoria's hand went to her cheek, in remembrance of that kiss long ago. Still smiling, she laid it atop the handkerchief and and scanned the rest of the contents.

"The rest, I think, were just things he gave my mother during their time together. She didn't get a chance to explain them to me." Nick told Victoria.

"Tom was a very giving man, he enjoyed buying gifts … he would often come home with a flower, just one, and a note." She replied as she picked up the dried rose she found pressed lovingly inside the box, "Your father had a soft heart, he wouldn't often admit it, but he loved flowers. That's why I have my rose garden, he urged me to plant them and he would sit for hours enjoying their beauty."

"My mother had a small rose garden in the front of her house. It seemed so out of place in a town like Strawberry, but she loved it. She would tell me it was to help her remember a love she lost." Nick replied almost apologetically.

Victoria held out her hand, inviting Nick to sit beside her. She placed a hand quietly on Nick's knee, she continued, "These memories are precious … only one who felt true love would keep something as simple as a flower. Her feelings for Tom were not wrong, Nick. You can't help who you love."

"I know. I just wish she could have been happy."

"She had you, dear. A child can bring more happiness than any object can. You were her final gift from the man she loved and I know she cherished you with all her heart."

"That man was my father!" Heath raged, "You're talking like he loved her! How could he and still love his family?"

"Heath … " Victoria pleaded.

"No, I won't listen to anymore lies! If you want to believe him, fine! I'm leaving … " Heath stomped away from the mantle and was soon out the door. Nick rose to follow.

"No dear, he needs to think. He'll be back." Victoria said sadly. Nick wanted to finally have it out with his brother but he acquiesced to the grand lady beside him.

"Mother, what are we going to do?" Audra asked as she rose and took her seat.

"We're going to do what should have been done years ago. We are going to offer Nick a place with his family. He deserves to be here, and to share in what his father fought so hard to build. Tom would have wanted that and so do I."

Jarrod spoke up next, "I agree. Nick, I think … if you'll have us … you should stay here."

Audra thought for a moment, the information swirling in her mind. Finally, with a determined smile, she gave her head a firm nod, "Yes Nick, you should be with your family."

Nick was taken back by the conviction his young sister showed at her statement.

"Gene?" Jarrod asked waiting.

Eugene looked at Nick then at the door Heath had just walked out of, "You should stay. It would be wrong to say otherwise. I'm not happy about what's happened, but father would want you here and I can't go against his wishes … or Mother's."

Victoria looked to Nick, "Nick, what do you want?"

Nick thought a moment, getting up to put some distance between he and his family, he spoke, "I would like a family."

Audra walked to Nick and, ever so lightly, gave him a sisterly kiss on the check, "Then you have one … big brother."

Nick's hand went to his check and he smiled sweetly at her.

"Then it's settled." Jarrod said, clearing his throat, "If you like, you can get your gear and I'll show you to your room."

"Jarrod, wait a moment." Victoria said, Jarrod turned to face her, "We need to tell Nick what we did earlier today. It's only right."

"Yes Mother. Of course you're correct." Jarrod walked to where Nick was standing, "Mother and I talked about what to do, last night. I decided to ... well there's no easy way to say this, but I've put out some inquiries about you."

"Inquiries?"

"Yes, I've asked the Pinkerton Agency to compile a report. Please understand that all it will do is confirm your claims should any legal problems arise from this. Even though we believe you, there will be those that don't."

Nick nodded his understanding, though anger brewed just below the surface, "I'd told you all you wanted ta know. I'm not hiding anything and I don't lie."

"We know, Nick, but you must have realized that we would need something beside your word and a few mementos. I don't mean to sound harsh, it's just the prudent thing to do."

"Okay, lawyer man, but I'd like ta read it when it gets here."

Jarrod chuckled, "That won't be a problem." Thinking, Jarrod added, "Is there something you'd like us to know before we receive the report?"

Nick gave Jarrod a narrow eyed look, "Just don't be surprised if it's not one of those fairy tale novels, some things are gonna be ... tough to read. I'll explain when the report gets here."

Victoria rose and placed a hand on Nick's arm, "Nick, your life before you came to us is important. We want to know everything, but if there is anything in the report you don't wish us to read, you may say so. It is your life. We don't mean to pry."

"It's not that I don't want you to know, it just that it may sound better if I explained it to you instead of readin' some fancy report."

"I can except that." Victoria smiled. "Thank you Nick."

"Nick, if you want, I'll help you get your belongings." Gene said trying to get use to the thought of having another big brother.

"Appreciate it, Gene." Nick said with a nod.

Nick and Gene then walked to the foyer and out the door. Hearing the door close, Jarrod turned to Victoria. "I'm going after Heath. I think I know were he might have gone."

"Okay dear. Bring him home."

"I will mother." Jarrod gave his mothers a light kiss on the check, "Don't worry, he'll be fine."

"I hope so, Jarrod. For all our sakes."

* * * * * * * *

Heath kept the horse at a slow pace, he didn't want Charger to stumble in the darkness. Though the moon shown bright, the danger of hitting a hole and Charger breaking a leg was ever present. Slowly, he made his way to the meadow. He often found himself there when he was troubled. Stopping his fine horse, he climbed down, and looped the reins around a tree limb and gave his faithful horse a gentle, reassuring pat. "I won't be long, boy. You rest," he whispered.

Heath turned, and for a moment, stared at the white picket fence enclosing of his father's grave. The moonlight bathed the area in gentle streams of light. It was as if his father were calling him to sit and talk. Making his way over to the grave, he remembered conversations from long ago. His father had never shut him out, but rather had encouraged him to speak his mind and voice his opinions. And so it was, that even after his father's death, Heath would come to this spot, seeking solace, to talk to his father. Running his hand reverently across the smooth face of the stone, he said a silent prayer. Swiping an errant tear, he sat down next to the grave of the man that he had loved, admired and looked up to as the driving force of the place Heath so loved to call his home.

"Father, I know you were probably expectin' me, but I guess you thought I'd have enough sense to come in the light of day," Heath began with a sad smile. "I just ... I don't know what to do. There's a stranger here ... he says, ... he says he's your son ... my brother. Mother and Jarrod believe him ... I think Audra and Gene do too, but ... Am I wrong for the way I feel? I know you would have given him a chance to speak his mind, and if you knew what he was saying to be was true, you would have welcomed him, too. But as for me..." Heath shook his head, stood and began to pace. A cooling breeze wisped its way across the meadow. Heath took it as a sign from his father. "You want me to give him a chance ... don't you?"

From a distance, Heath heard the mournful cry of a coyote. "I can’t! He came here to claim a birthright, a heritage…to claim what’s MINE! I can’t accept that!" Heath’s voice rose as he continued. "You can’t expect me to just give up everything I’ve … WE’VE worked so hard to build and hand it over to some no account drifter! It’s not that easy. It has taken me five long years, working myself near to death every day, to build up trust and earn the respect of the men, MY men!" Heath spat the words as if they were venom. "He comes here and in two days, he’s taken over. He’s strong and confident. The men like him. Why, even Duke is eating out of his hand! He said that Nick would make a great ranch foreman. Said it gave him peace of mind to think of handing his job over to such a capable and likeable young man! As if Nick could run this ranch better than I could!" Heath slammed his fist into his hand. "It has taken Nick two days to do what I’ve been struggling five years to do!"

Heath stared down at the grave marker, his anger and frustration showing in every line of his tense body. "Where are you?! Why aren’t you here!? I wasn’t ready to take over! Why did you die, Tom Barkley! You died to soon, too damn soon!" Heath sagged to the ground, drawing his knees up and burying his face in his arms. "I can’t give him a chance, Father. I can’t. I’m afraid…" His voice dropped to a whisper, as if saying the words aloud would make them true. "I’m afraid that if I give him what he wants…what he would deserve if he was your son…then he will take it all! And I’ll have…nothing." His body shook with sobs as he poured out his heart to the silent grove. He hadn’t heard the soft footfalls of his oldest brother, but he felt the warm hand on his shoulder. Turning he looked up into Jarrod’s piercing blue eyes, now dark in the shadows of the trees.

"Heath, none of us were ready to lose father. You're right. It was too soon, but there's no need to be jealous. You have the respect of every man on this ranch. That's something to be proud of. You worked hard for that. I know it wasn't easy for one so young."

"Pappy, I am proud of that. I'm proud of this ranch and my family ... I know I've worked hard to fill Father's boots, but sometimes, it feels like they'll never fit ... like they'd fit someone else better."

"You mean like Nick? Heath, he's not here to take anything from you. If anything, he'll be a great help. You won't have to keep doing everything yourself. You're young, Heath. You were too young to have such a heavy burden dropped on your shoulders. I suppose that's my fault too. You've barely had time to enjoy life because the needs of the ranch come first." Jarrod put out a hand to stop Heath's protest before he could speak. "I know our family comes first ... but, you know what I mean."

Heath thought a moment, "I know ... but it still bothers me that you and Mother are so quick to accept him."

"Actually, Mother presented me with a good argument last night. She, more than anyone, knows what happened. Nick had no say so as to who his parents were. You shouldn't blame Nick. It's not easy for him either ... He came here a stranger ... looking for his long, lost family ... He's laying all his cards on the table here, Heath. The least we can do is hear him out. It takes a certain amount of courage to do what Nick's done. That right there shows me that he is an honorable man. Many people in his situation would be bitter and angry ... wanting to hurt anyone who tried to stand between him and what he felt to be rightfully his. Instead, he's come here, not to hurt us, but to get to know us ... and give us a chance to get to know him."

"What if I don't want to know him?" He spoke out defiantly.

"That's your decision, Heath. No one can force you to accept Nick. I'm afraid that, if you choose to disregard his claims, you may lose something far more important than your pride."

"I don't need another brother. I have two. That's plenty."

"With Nick here, maybe he'll even up the odds some." Jarrod chuckled.

"For who?"

"Me, that's who! I have all I can do to deal with the pranks that you and Gene pull. Maybe now I'll have someone to help me get you two back!"

Heath laughed a little at that. "I'm not gonna promise anything ... I suppose I could try it."

"That's the spirit ... " Jarrod stopped and motioned toward their father's grave. "You know, I think father would have been very proud of you ... " Turning Heath to face him he added, "I'm proud of you too, little brother. Mighty proud."

Heath grinned widely, "Thanks, Pappy ... that means a lot. Hope you still are once this is all said and done."

"No matter what, Heath ... never doubt our pride in you. Anger is just a feeling ... don't let it rule your thoughts ... Nick is the brother you've always wished for, someone to share your the love of the land, someone to watch it grow and prosper. I think Gene's decision to go to college will be a lot easier on him knowing that you have someone here to help you."

"We'll see ... that's all I can promise." Heath stated sadly.

"That's all we want ... now let's get home. Mother's worried."

"Is he staying in the house?" Heath asked, frowning.

"Yes. Will that bother you?" Jarrod answered with a tilt of his head.

"I'd be lying if I said no, but since I lit out before the final decision was made, it's not my place to argue about it now, is it?"

"Good, cause we gave him the room right next to yours," Jarrod said as he mounted Jingo and rode away.

You ... you what?!" Heath sputtered. He narrowed his eyes as he watched Jarrod throw an arm up and wave." Jarrod! You no good lawyer ... I'm gonna get ya for that one ... you just wait ... you ain't seen a prank yet!" Heath mumbled to himself as he mounted Charger and followed his brother back home.

* * * * * * * *

Heath was surrounded by his men as they all rode into town, laughing and joking, anticipating the fun that lay before them. It was just coming on to dusk, the air cooling a bit from the fierce heat of the day. This was Heath’s 23rd birthday. The men were taking him into town to celebrate.

To the rear of the cavalcade of riders came Nick, flanked by Jarrod and Duke. To say that things had been strained between Nick and Heath would be putting it mildly. This evening was no exception. Heath had barely been civil to Nick during supper and the birthday cake that followed, and had only grudgingly consented to Nick’s coming with the men into town. Jarrod had been running interference between the two and was feeling a mite on edge as a result. Duke, with all of his experience working with men through the years, and working for Barkleys for years, could see the storm brewing in Heath.

They pulled up in front of the Empire Saloon just as the streetlamps were being lit. Light poured from every window and the sound of the piano reached them as they dismounted. Heath was slapped on the back and teased, the center of attention. They moved as a group toward the swinging doors. Nick, watching the revelry, stood by his horse with his hands on his hips, his mouth drawn down in a wry scowl. After the hands had disappeared through the doorway to the saloon, Jarrod watched Nick as he seemed to gather himself. Nick strode toward the door, confident and proud.

Jarrod looked at Duke. Duke shrugged and allowed the lawyer to precede him into the raucous bar. The Barkley hands had surrounded Heath at the bar, plying him with drinks. Nick got a beer from the harried bartender and made his way to a table off to the side. Jarrod and Duke joined him with drinks of their own.

The dance hall girls eased into the group, and the piano player struck up a tune. In a space barely large enough for it, couples were soon whirling about and feet were stomping and hands clapping. Heath had been singled out by a pretty brunette and he danced with her eagerly.

The drinks flowed and the men began to get a little tipsy. Blackie Wilmont, having no head for even the mildest of beers, was sprawled in a corner, out cold. Heath, himself, was feeling the effects of a few beers and all that whirling on the dance floor. Flanked at the bar by his men, he turned his back to the counter top, leaning back on his elbows, hooking one booted foot over the brass foot rail. He surveyed the room, his gaze finally alighting on Jarrod, Duke and Nick. He took a couple of swallows of his beer. Then he leaned over and whispered in a conspiratorial manner to the hand on his right. “You wanna know sump in?” His words were a bit slurred. “That Nick Thomson, he says…” Heath stopped for a moment and gave Nick a hard look. Then he raised his voice so that all could hear. “Nick Thomson says he’s my father’s bastard son! He says he’s my brother.”

The news went through the men like an electric shock. They looked at one another and then all gazes flew to Nick. The dark haired man had been leaning on his elbows on the table, listening to a story that Duke was telling. As the silence following that statement lengthened, he put down his glass and slowly rose to his full height. His eyes were wary, but unafraid.

Jarrod made a move to intervene, but a Duke’s hand on his arm stopped him. “This has been long enough in coming,” Duke said softly. “Let ‘em have it out.”

One man, Barrett, stepped forward. “I’ll shove that claim right back down his throat!” He was cheered by the Barkley hands. Heath stepped in front of Barrett.

“You boys just watch. We’ll see who’s a Barkley and who ain’t!” Heath advanced on Nick, who stood his ground.

“I stand behind my claim, Heath. Your father was my father!” His hazel eyes flashed. Nick hadn’t been drinking as heavily as Heath had and was not as unsteady on his feet. But Heath had righteous indignation and family honor on his side and that served to even things up between the two antagonists. Heath landed the first punch and it snapped Nick’s head back sharply. There was a shout of approval from the ranch hands.

Nick staggered backwards, tripping over his chair and going down in a heap. Heath was fast after him, grabbing him by the shirtfront and hauling him, scrambling to his feet. Nick allowed the force of Heath hauling him upwards to propel him. His big fist met Heath’s stomach with a hollow sounding punch. Heath doubled over with a grunt and bulled forward catching Nick around the middle with his arms and sending them both crashing into a table.

Patrons of the bar picked up their drinks and made for the outside walls, cheering and watching the melee unfold before them. Jarrod and Duke tried to escaped the fray just as a punch from Heath sent Nick backwards into their laps. The stomping and whistling from the Barkley hands grew louder and louder as Heath seemed to be gaining the upper hand.

But eventually, Nick’s longer reach and Heath’s inebriation began to turn the tide the other direction. Both men were panting, shirts torn, faces and knuckles bleeding. Jarrod stepped forward to put a halt to the fight. Neither combatant saw him coming and in a furious flurry of blows aimed at each other, Nick and Heath managed together to knock Jarrod flying backwards. Jarrod hit the heavy edge of the oak bar with a crack. He crumpled to the floor in an awkward heap, groaning heavily as he fell.

Jarrod lay at an unnatural angle half propped up and half on his side across the brass foot rail that enclosed the bar. His out flung hand had knocked over a spittoon and it rocked gently in the aftermath of silence.

For a horrified moment, Nick and Heath stared at each other. What had they done? They rushed together to Jarrod’s side. “Jarrod! Jarrod!” Heath called. “He’s hurt bad! We gotta get him to Doc Merar’s!”

Nick put out a hand to stop Heath from moving Jarrod. “Heath! He may have broken his back. We can’t move him. We need the doc to come here!” Nick turned on one knee to look up at the ranch hands that surrounded them.

“Barrett, go get the doctor!” Nick ordered tersely.

Barrett snarled back, “I don’t take no orders from no Barkley bastard!” There was a grunt of approval from the hands.

In a split second Heath was up from his crouching position, his big fists buried in Barrett’s shirt. In a low guttural voice, Heath snarled out, “My brother gave you an order! Now DO IT!”

A look of stunned amazement settled on Nick’s features as he heard the command from his younger brother. There was no doubt but that he meant what he’d said. Heath gave Barrett a shove toward the door and turned back to where Jarrod lay.

Even though he was worried about Jarrod, Duke couldn’t keep a small smile from his lips as he took in the look exchanged between Nick and Heath. It was a look of apology and acceptance and understanding. That was enough to be going on with.

The next two days were painful ones, both physically and emotionally. Jarrod had a severely strained and bruised back. He spent the first 24 hrs face down on a bed at the doctor’s house, being fussed over by his mother and sister. Heath and Nick maintained a wary truce, each mindful of his part in how Jarrod wound up injured.

The second 24 hrs of Jarrod’s convalescence found him ensconced in a wheelchair in the parlor of the Barkley Mansion, presiding, along with Victoria, over many long family discussions.

Three days after the fight in the Empire Saloon, Jarrod allowed Silas to wheel him to his place at the foot of the breakfast table. Audra scurried in, placing a kiss on Jarrod’s cheek and another on Victoria’s. There was no sign of Heath or Nick.

“Mother, do you know where our errant brothers are?” Jarrod asked, pouring himself some coffee, trying not to wince as he leaned forward to set the pot down.

“No, dear. I haven’t seen them this morning. Perhaps Silas knows.”

“Mista Heath and Mista Nick went out real early dis mornin’, Miz Barkley. Dey said dey’d be back fo’ breakfast.”

At that moment, Nick’s laughter rang out through the foyer. He and Heath came into the dining room together. “You know,” Heath said. “If we could just put one more section of that flood plain into barley, we could almost double our yield. That’s the most fertile section we own, down by Green Creek.” Absorbed in his talk, he aimed an absent minded kiss at Victoria’s cheek, “Morning, Mother” and continued his discussion with Nick. “We’d have a lot of trees to take down, but I’m sure that it would be worth it. What do you think?”

“Sounds like a lot of work,” was Nick’s casual reply.

“Well, this is a working ranch, you know, Nick. That means WORK!” Heath took his seat opposite Nick’s with a grin.

Nick grinned back and each man reached out with his fork and simultaneously stabbed the same steak on the platter. Jarrod sighed and leaned forward, using his knife to separate the meat down the middle.

Nick nodded his head in agreement. “This IS a working ranch. We’ll do whatever you decide is best.”

Heath shook his head slowly. “Nick, we’re brothers. We’ll do whatever WE decide is best.”

THE END