Family Connections

Chapters 1-20

by catgirl63

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.

Chapter 1

The waiting room of the office was stylish, decorated in the latest furniture, brightened with plants and works of art. Behind the small desk, a lady approximately thirty years of age, full figured with lips of red and eyes of brown was busy updating a ledger. Every few minutes, she looked up and smiled at the middle aged man dressed in a suit sitting in a leather chair.

The man smiled back nervously, the woman’s face could have decorated the most famous of paintings. Her features perfect as a porcelain china doll’s face. Her skin perfect, her hair shined in the rays of the sun flowing through the window.

Hearing a voice call from behind the door, she entered and reappeared within a minute. Gesturing with her hand, her voice was lilting, “Mr. Thomson will see you now, Mr. Stevens.”

Nodding, the man entered the office and shook the hand of the elderly gentleman standing behind the desk, the nameplate read, Hiriam Thomson. “It’s nice to see you again, sir.”

“You, also Mr. Stevens.” replied the man. “Now, what have the Pinkertons found out.”

Sitting at a table, Mr. Stevens opened a file and cleared his throat, “Your son, Matt Simmons resides in Strawberry, California with his wife, Martha. Currently, they run a hotel there. The town is all but deserted since the mines played out several years back. We were not able to determine why your son changed his name. We can only assume it is to keep hidden from the law or someone else who may be searching for him. Your daughter, Leah, resided in Strawberry. She died six years ago and was buried in a field outside of town.”

Hiriam Thomson sighed deeply, “Dammit! How did she die?”

Leaning forward, Mr. Stevens stared into the brown eyes, “Mr. Thomson, your daughter was killed by a man who was seeking revenge on your grandson.”

“GRANDSON?” shouted Hiriam his voice questioning what he had heard. “I have a grandson?”

“His name is Heath Thomson. I’ve enclosed a dossier on his life. It is quite graphic and unsettling for someone of his age of twenty five. Unfortunately, when he was growing up in Strawberry, his father was unknown. As you can imagine, this made him and his mother outcasts of the town. He was in the war and a prisoner in Carterson Prison at the age of 15.”

“15?” whispered Hiriam familiar with the horror stories of the prison. “What else?”

“Two years after Carterson, he became a deputy in Spanish Creek, Montana. One year later he became a United States Marshal based out of Ely, Nevada. He held that position for eight years. He resigned ten months ago and is residing in Stockton, California.”

“Why’d he resign?”

“He resigned to take his place on his father’s ranch. His father was Thomas Barkley, a man who built an empire in California. Thomas Barkley, left a wife, three other sons and a daughter upon his death.”

“A grandson. I had no idea my daughter had a child. Why didn’t she contact me? Did you find out that answer?”

“No, I am afraid not, sir. Perhaps your son will be able to provide that information.” suggested Stevens.

Sitting back in the chair, Hiriam Thomson’s sixty year old mind was running wild with thoughts. When his wife died unexpectedly, Hiriam had sent his children to live with his sister and husband in Missouri. He was unable to take care of the young children at the time. He didn’t have the finances and the grief over his wife’s death had crippled him emotionally. When he was able he sent his sister money over the years and had written letters to his children. His children had written back to their father, each letter pleading to come home to Virginia. Then one year, the letters stopped coming.

He traveled to Missouri himself and found himself looking at a deserted house. The people in the town told him stories of the cruel treatment the children received at the hands of their uncle after his sister had passed on. They didn’t know what happened to the children, one day the family was gone in the middle of the night.

He had the Pinkertons searching for the children for years, but it was if they had fallen off the face of the earth. A lucky break came in the form of a newspaper report on the death of his brother-in-law. Claiming the personal effects of the man, the Pinkertons located a letter written to his brother-in-law from his son. The letter was from Matt asking for money to help keep his hotel going dated fifteen years prior. It had been a starting point.

His son and grandson were the heirs to his fortune.

“Mr. Stevens, I’d like you to leave your file here so I may read it completely.” stated Hiriam standing and walking the Pinkerton to the door. “Thank you for your thoroughness.”

“Our pleasure, Mr. Thomson.” stated Stevens leaving and passing the secretary entering the office.

Closing the door behind her, she smiled, “Mr. Thomson, do you want some coffee?”

Shaking his head, Hiriam picked up the file and walked back to his desk. “No, thank you Sheila. I’ll be taking a trip to Stockton, California. Please make the arrangements.”

“Certainly, Mr. Thomson.” nodded Sheila Waters. “May I inquire as to why, sir?”

Looking up, Hiriam smiled, “I found my son and a grandson. I’m traveling out there to see them.”

“How wonderful for you, Mr. Thomson.” smiled Sheila “I’ll make the necessary travel arrangements.”

“Also, send word to my attorney that I’d like to see him.” stated Hiriam opening the file on his grandson.

“Yes, sir.” whispered Sheila leaving the office and closing the door behind her. If someone had been watching they would’ve seen the cracks appear in the porcelain china doll face knowing her dreams of wealth were moving further away from her fingertips.

Chapter 2

The horizon was shimmering and the sun beating down on the earth, baking the cowboy walking on the land. Toting his saddle over his left shoulder, a rifle in his right hand. Three days spent scouting a herd of wild horses resulted in a horse with a broken leg and a sore back from a spill.

He had to put the horse down. Heath had been thankful it wasn’t his bay stallion, Charger, who was in his stall at home resting a lame leg. Now he was a day behind in getting home and could just imagine Nick’s anger at his lateness.

Stopping, Heath set his saddle on the ground and leaned his rifle against it. Taking off his hat, he wiped the sweatband and retightened the leather strap holding his blonde hair in a pony tail. Taking a swig of water from his almost empty canteen, he picked up his belongings and started walking again. Smirking to himself, his blue eyes lit up with deviltry, his mind seeing Nick rolling his eyes at his little brother’s hair.

Nick’s comments on the length of his hair went against the grain and stubbornness set in. Heath decided to forego the visit to the barber he had planned upon their return from Strawberry. Jarrod and Victoria saw what Heath was doing and hid their smiles. They enjoyed the tormenting the two men handed each other, a reminder to the bond the two brothers held between them.

Over the months working beside Nick, Heath learned what buttons to push to get a rise out of his big brother. Chuckling to himself, Heath knew the length of his hair was a point of irritation and contention for Nick. If Nick hadn’t made such a big deal of its length, he’d have a little brother with short hair now.

Heath couldn’t wait to get back to the ranch. He missed his family terribly when he was gone. Each morning when he woke, he found it hard to believe his good fortune of living and working with his father’s family, his family.

It had been nine months since he resigned from the marshal service not including the time he’d been reinstated looking for the proof on Marshal Nichols. Dan Nichols was a full time guest in the Nevada State Correctional Facility. A lawman in a prison was a fate worse than death, even if the lawman had been dirty on the outside. It didn’t matter, the convicts didn’t care about those details. The trial had lasted two long weeks.

Two long weeks in which his Mother was by his side each day sharing her strength and giving him comfort with her presence. The time spent in Nevada with his Mother further strengthened the love and respect he held in his heart.

Victoria Barkley was truly a remarkable woman, one of a kind in his estimation. She loved him as one of her own and treated him as such always. Even in the face of scandal and adversity, she held true to her feelings regarding her new son.

The sun was falling in the sky and Heath was still five miles from home. The long walk carting the heavy saddle was playing havoc with his back. Chasing the wild horses up a washed out hill, his horse lost its footing and fell backwards. He’d thrown himself out of the saddle, fear of being crushed beneath the massive animal, caused the split second decision. Landing hard on the ground and rolling until he stopped, thrust pain throughout his lower back and took his breath away.

Dropping the saddle under a tree, Heath leaned against the trunk and finished the water in his canteen. Resting for a few minutes, he groaned and started walking leaving his saddle behind, feet and back keeping in tune with each other.

As the day progressed and his little brother didn’t appear, Nick’s anxiety grew. Heath was nothing if not punctual. Over the months, Nick learned some things about his little brother. He didn’t lie. He did his share and more of the work. He rooted for the underdog and he kept his deadlines. If he said he was going to be somewhere, he was there unless something happened to prevent it.

In the early evening, Nick had enough of waiting. Saddling Coco, he headed towards the direction Heath left to scout the wild horses. Smiling, Nick remembered the surprise on his face when Nick suggested the three day trip.

In the past months, Nick hadn’t let Heath out of his sight until his little brother had sarcastically suggested they get married since Nick wanted to keep tabs on him all the time. It had been extremely hard on Nick when Heath was off with Frank Sawyer gathering the evidence against Dan Nichols. During that time, his greatest fear was getting a telegram stating Heath’d been killed in the line of duty.

Nick’d been honored when Heath requested he join him on his trip to Strawberry. The time on the trail provided the brothers with plenty of time to talk and cement their relationship. It took a while for Nick to release the tight rope he had around his little brother.

Smirking at the face conjured up in his mind, Nick knew his little brother was leaving his hair long because of his comments. At first, Nick thought Heath was angry until one day he caught the smirk Heath couldn’t hide fast enough from big brother.

Nick decided the little contest of wills between them would be fun. Mentally, he bet himself Heath would give up in a month. He’d grow tired of Nick’s poking fun and comments about the hair so much like Audra’s, yet shorter by several inches.

At first, Heath would go up to his room and find a hair ribbon on the knob to his room. Then Nick put them in other places where Heath was sure to find them. Heath never let on about the ribbons, never giving Nick the satisfaction of a growl, snarl or shout of indignation. Nothing. Not a remark out of the blonde man.

Shaking his head, Nick wondered what happened to all the brightly colored ribbons. One week to go in his self bet and it sure didn’t appear Heath was any closer to giving in. Heath sure had a wide streak of Barkley stubbornness.

Squinting in the fading light, Nick nudged Coco into a gallop at the sight of his brother walking or rather limping. Heath waved away the dust Coco kicked up when Nick rode by him and then came back to walk his horse beside him.

“Hey, little brother.” smirked Nick looking down from atop Coco. “Having a nice walk?”

“Sure am.” drawled Heath, exhaustion and pain thickening his words. “Fancy meeting you out here.”

“Well, I was worried you couldn’t find your way home in the dark, you being younger and all.” teased Nick. “Say what happened to your horse? He throw you?”

Heath snapped, “No, he didn’t throw me!”

Holding up his hands, Nick said quietly, “Whoa there! Just a honest question considering you left with a horse and now you don’t have one, Mr. Cantankerous!”

Heath smiled at the name and stopped walking. Leaning against Coco, he looked up, “Got any water, Nick?”

Unwrapping the canteen, Nick’s eyebrows raised as Heath drank the water down. Sighing in relief, he put the cap on and handed it back.

“Heath, why are you limping?” asked Nick, all funning aside and concern taking over. When Heath stopped, the exhaustion could clearly be seen in the lines on his face.

Heath told Nick the events of the day before and waved off his concern.

“I’m okay, Nick. It’s sore but I’ll live.” said Heath.

“Climb on up, we’ll get your saddle tomorrow.” ordered Nick taking his left foot out of the stirrup and holding out his arm. Putting his foot in the stirrup and grabbing hold of the offered limb, Heath’s breath caught from the strain the movement put on his back.

Nick noticed and shook his head, “Boy, you are a mess.”

Laughing, Heath agreed, “Can ya’ think of a better way to test your brotherly skills, Nick?”

“I have the best brotherly skills already! I don’t need to test them.” boasted Nick nudging Coco to a trot.

“Whatever you say, brother Nick.” drawled Heath his grin changing to a grimace and whispered to himself. “Damn Freemont.”

Nick closed his eyes at the whispered phrase he knew had not been meant for his ears. The day his marshal brother was beaten severely and thrown out the window, lingered fresh in his mind. He didn’t think he’d ever lose that image of him lying in the street, not ever.

Heath could work all day with no problems and then one little movement would send a shock of pain through his back. Dr. Merar surmised the traumatized muscles in his back were still healing and gave Heath a list of exercises to perform. Heath hadn’t fully understood how they were to help. He got a lot of exercise working around the ranch, but performed them as requested.

Jarrod opened the door and walked over to the horse surprised at the two riding double. “Heath, you okay?”

“He’s fine, Jarrod. Just tired from the walk. His horse broke a leg.” stated Nick quickly, hoping his words would soothe his older brother and mother, preventing a visit from Dr. Merar.

Squeezing Nick’s shoulder gratefully, Heath slowly slid off Coco and put both feet on the ground. His hands gripped the saddle until he knew his legs wouldn’t fail him. Nick jumped down and called for Ciego to take care of Coco.

“Heath, after you get cleaned up and eat dinner, we have to talk.” said Jarrod quietly deciding to ignore the flash of pain he saw on Heath’s face when he dismounted rather ungraciously from the horse.

Wiping his face, Heath sighed, “Jarrod, I’m beat. Can’t it wait til morning?”

“Com’on Jarrod, he just walked over twenty miles! Give the boy a break!” growled Nick.

“Okay, first thing in the morning then.”

Nodding in agreement, Heath was pulled into the house and up the stairs by Nick. Reaching his bedroom, he entered and moved to close the door. The large hand of his big brother stopped the door.

“Nick, move your hand.” ordered Heath firmly.

Smirking, Nick shoved the door open surprised at how little strength Heath was using to keep him out. Entering, he closed it behind him and crossed his arms across his chest.

“Take off your shirt.”

“I’m not taking off my shirt, now get out!” snapped Heath. “I just wanna clean up and get to sleep.”

Grinning, Nick replied, “Would you like me to let Mother know your back hurts again?”

Opening his mouth and then shutting it, Heath’s face turned red from the anger of the situation. Snorting, he mumbled under his breath loudly for Nick to hear.

“Damn nursemaids.”

Nick’s chuckle at Heath’s anger turned to cursing at the sight of the large bruise on Heath’s lower back. “Holy!”

“You happy!” growled Heath. “Now, get out!”

“Heath, if Mother finds out you won’t be able to leave this bed for a week.” stated Nick. “Go clean up and I’ll bring in the liniment bottle.”

Heath’s face turned to a look of resignation at the thought of being penned in for a week. “That bad, huh?”

“Fraid so.” admitted Nick. “It looks real bad.”

Sighing loudly, Heath nodded, “Okay, but just cause I don’t wanna stay in bed for a week.”

Nick turned, his hand on the doorknob, stopping at the growl, “Don’t even think about putting on a nurse’s uniform either!”

Nick winked “You’re the one with the hair for that!”

Thirty minutes later, Heath lay in a deep sleep of exhaustion while Nick rubbed the offensive smelling liniment on his little brother. The large muscular hands soft as a feather, spreading the medicine over the bruised back.

Nick struggled to keep his eyes on the bruise and off the scars from Heath’s past. Each time he saw the scars, he was reminded of how much this special man had gone through before he finally reached the family and was enfolded in their love.

Nick wiped his hands and pulled the blanket up, covering the bruised area. Reaching out, he let his hand brush across the blonde hair and rolled his eyes.

Chapter 3

The next morning, Victoria raised her eyebrow at the sight of Heath walking stiffly into the room. Bending slightly, he quickly kissed her on the cheek, “Morning, Mother.”

A faint aroma caught her nose, puzzled she tried to place the smell as she watched him greet his sister in the same manner. Jarrod shrugged at her inquiring glance and Nick jumped up to pour a cup of coffee for his little brother.

Placing it in front of him, Nick smiled, “So, Audra, how’s the planning for the fall festival coming?”

In the middle of a drink, Audra coughed slightly from Nick’s sudden interest, her blue eyes confused. “It’s going fine, Nick. Why?”

“Just wondering is all. I know how much planning you put into those things.” stated Nick.

Nick kept up a steady stream of conversation while piling his plate with food and making a production of handing Heath the platters. His nervous chattering caused Victoria to raise her eyebrows at his nonstop moving mouth. Heath rolled his eyes at Nick’s obvious ploy, which unfortunately was not working from the looks of everyone else at the table.

“Heath, how was your trip?” asked Victoria with a smile. “Anything exciting happen?”

Heath fidgeted slightly in his seat, “Well, Mother…”

“It was fine, Mother. Jarrod, didn’t you need to speak with Heath about something?” suggested Nick.

“Nicholas, I do believe I was speaking with your brother before you interrupted.” Victoria firmly informed her now crimson faced son.

“Yes, Mother. Sorry.” mumbled Nick.

Putting her elbows on the table, Victoria waited for Heath to speak, “Did you find any horses?”

“Yes, Mother. I did.” answered Heath offhandedly. Hoping to put off the inevitable, wanting to escape the intense knowing gray eyes.

Audra turned sideways, “Heath, is that liniment I smell?”

“Audra, what are you planning for the festival?” inquired Nick.

Heath mumbled, “Yes, Audra. So, Jarrod what did you want to speak to me about?”

“For heaven’s sake you two!” exclaimed Victoria in frustration. “Nick, stop talking and Heath, why do you smell like liniment?”

“My horse fell goin’ up a hill and broke its leg. I jumped off and landed on the ground. I had to walk home and course, the only time I’d like to see another rider and there was none around.” replied Heath simply. “So, Jarrod what did ya’ need?”

Looking at his mother, Jarrod smiled slightly at the frustration in her eyes. She had two middle sons, born of different mothers, but both the same in their stubbornness. “I thought we’d talk in private, Heath.”

Pushing himself up from the table, Heath smiled, “No time like the present. Care to join me, Jarrod?”

“My pleasure, Heath.” grinned Jarrod following the younger man out of the room. The voice of his Mother following Jarrod out the door.

“Don’t even think about it Nicholas.”

Jarrod closed the door of the study behind him and sat on the edge of the desk. “Heath, I received word from a friend of mine at the war department, the Pinkerton’s are investigating a Heath Thomson.”

Frowning, Heath asked “The Pinkerton’s? What’d they want with me?”

“I don’t know. Not everyone can afford to pay for a Pinkerton investigation. Do you have any enemies in the past who could raise that kind of money?”

Heath winked, “Jarrod, I got so many people in my past, it’s hard to keep them all straight sometimes.”

Smiling slightly, Jarrod squeezed his shoulder, “I just wanted to warn you. Maybe you should stay around the ranch instead of going to town until we know what’s going on.”

“It’s not in me to hide from trouble of any kind. I’d rather meet it head on.” replied Heath, then remembering the gray eyes of their mother smirked, “Somehow I don’t think I’m gonna have a choice on whether I stay around the ranch for a few days or not.”

“No, unfortunately, I don’t think so either.” agreed Jarrod with a chuckle. Putting his arm over his younger brother’s shoulders, walked him out of the study and relinquished his place at Heath’s side to their waiting Mother.

One month later, the morning train arrived in Stockton two hours behind schedule. From a private car, three people, two men and a woman climbed down, their eyes taking in the town they would be staying in until the family connection was made and their business concluded.

Chapter 4

At the age of sixty, Hiriam Thomson could pass for a younger fifty year old. His frame was lean with a muscular build, his black hair streaked with white creating an air of genteelism about him, his eyes brown and quick. He kept in shape riding horses, playing squash, walking and boxing in a gym. These things he did to stove off the effects of running his business from a desk, to clean the clutter from his mind.

His manners and people skills improved over the years as his social standing improved.

He could still get back to basics when he desired on his farm in the country, down at the waterfront or he could hold his own among the richest people in Richmond, Virginia. His mind was as sharp as when he was twenty, perhaps even sharper from the constant use it was subjected to in the forms of business deals and opportunities.

His father had been a mariner as his father before him. He remembered when he was growing how often his father was home. He could count the times his father was there on both hands and still have two fingers left over.

While Hiriam held a love of the sea in his heart, it was the love of his wife that kept him on solid ground. When he met Leanne, one look into her ocean blue eyes was all it took. His feet never left dry land after that, vowing to be by her side always.

The birth of his two children had been a highlight in the young couple’s lives. A son born with his father’s black hair, the daughter with her mother’s fair hair. When their mother, his wife was stolen away by illness, his heart was shattered. The children sent off to live with his sister while he worked to pick himself up from the deep depression he had sunk into.

It was the love of the sea which brought him back from the dank hole. Jumping on a ship, the battle with the waves, the backbreaking work and the spray of sea water helped to wash the depression away. His children were often on his mind, the letters which were too far in between, could not compensate for their smiles and love he was missing.

When he had gone to Liberty, Missouri after the letters stopped, he’d almost fallen back into the dankness again. In hindsight, he wished he’d never let the children leave his side, but in grief even the strongest person will act out of character, not seeing what’s in front of them.

By this time, he had the financial means to search and each night prayed he would be reunited with his offspring. He had built his business from the ground up, starting with one ship and then expanding when it was warranted and demands for goods increased.

His contacts made over the years in the seediest ports of the world and his knowledge of what the people were demanding, equaled the beginning of his empire. Transportation, import and exports were the lifeblood of Thomson Transports.

In the time Hiriam spent finalizing details for his trip to Stockton, he memorized every detail, every sentence of the Pinkerton reports.

Hiriam knew the Pinkertons were correct in the assumption of why Matthew changed his name. There’s only a few reasons why a person went to that extreme to remain hidden. Matthew was hiding from the law or running from someone.

The reports from two of Strawberry’s oldest citizens were disheartening to Hiriam. The apparent treatment of Leah and her son by Matthew and his wife was nothing short of horrendous. How could a brother do that to his only sibling, his sister and her child?

His grandson was named after his own father, his daughter had paid respect to him and her grandfather when Heath was born. An indication to him, she had thought of him over the years and this warmed his heart immensely for she had never been far from his.

Hiriam found particularly disturbing the file on his grandson, Heath’s life. Forced to work in the mines, forced to work in his relatives’ hotel, forced to endure the cruel treatment of people because of his circumstances of birth.

How does one survive such an upbringing? How did his grandson survive the brutality of prison when so many men died and he was just a boy? How did he at the young age of seventeen take up the fight for justice and peace? How did he overcome his mother’s murder? How had Heath survived all those things at such a young age?

Hiriam had a lot of questions for his grandson and son. He was anxious to reach California to put an end to the questions, put an end to the search and perhaps start anew with his reconnected family.

Hiriam’s fatherly and familial desires did not overrule his common sense. He had not gotten where he was by acting impulsively.

He’d seen what greed did to people, what the promise of riches could do to even those who seemed above corruption. He was wealthy with property and money. His son would assume he’d inherit should Hiriam die, his son would be wrong.

Following his attorney’s advice, Hiriam had left his will in place except for the addition of two provisions to ensure his grandson and son a part of the money from the sale of his business upon his death. He was not about to leave his whole fortune to people who may not be worthy of such a gesture.

Relatives or not, he knew what type of person could be counted on and unfortunately, it didn’t appear that Matthew was that type. Heath, well, he could be. Only time would tell.

Stepping off the private car, Hiriam, his attorney’s junior partner and his secretary made their way to the house on the edge of town which had been rented. Hiriam knew Sheila and Ted were puzzled by the arrangements, his plans were in his head and he was not sharing them with anyone.

Settling in, Hiriam left the two in the house to unpack while he made his way to the livery to rent a carriage for the afternoon drive and walk around the town.

Chapter 5

“Marshal!” called a young red headed boy around age eight waving his arm frantically.

Hiriam’s heart beat faster and his eyes followed the young boy as he ran over to the blonde man dismounting from a bay stallion in front of the general store, only a few feet away. Sitting down in a vacant chair, Hiriam pulled out a cigar and lit it with shaky fingers.

“Hi ya’, Timmy.” greeted the man kneeling in front of the boy. “I told ya’ I’m not a marshal anymore, remember.”

The boy’s face became crestfallen as he looked down at the ground. “Sorry, Marshal. I forgot.”

Chuckling and ruffling the head of red, Heath drawled, “Well, I forget sometimes too.”

“You do, Mr. Thomson?” asked Timmy looking into Heath’s face.

“Yep, sure do.” nodded Heath. “How’s your little sister and mama?”

“Mama got a new job at the dressmakers!” exclaimed Timmy happy to share his news with his idol.

Pushing his hat back, Hiriam saw the smile spread across his grandson’s face, “Well, I think we got a reason to celebrate Timmy! How bout you come with me and we’ll get you and your little sister a peppermint stick?”

“Really? Can mama have one too?”

“I don’t see why not, let’s go.” grinned Heath, nodding to the stranger in the chair, taking the boy’s hand and walking into the store.

Sitting up against the building, Hiriam had to fight the tears from springing into his eyes. His heart was palpitating in his chest, his mouth dry and his thoughts running wild.

“Heath!” called a dark haired man aboard a chestnut horse. “Come on!”

Walking out of the general store with Timmy, Heath replied, “Boy howdy, Nick. Just a minute! There’s plenty of daylight left.”

“Hi Timmy.” greeted Nick with a smile.

Nick Barkley always scared him for some reason, so Timmy swallowed the lump in his throat and moved closer to Heath, “Hi, Mr. Barkley.”

Nick sighed at the boy’s gesture and asked, “Heath, did you get those needles for Mother?”

Looking down at Timmy, Heath winked, “No, Nick. Guess I forgot.”

“You forgot! Boy, I think that long hair is taking over your brains.” smirked Nick. “Say goodbye to your friend, we got work waiting for us.”

“Timmy, tell your mama hello for me and don’t spoil your supper.”

“Okay! Thanks Marshal.” grinned Timmy running down the boardwalk, candy in hand.

Walking back into the store, Heath returned and opened his saddlebags, “Nick, do ya’ have to scare the kid?”

“Scare the kid! I didn’t do anything to him.” growled Nick. “I’m surprised he even notices me from the way his eyes are always glued on you, big as saucers. Marshal this. Marshal that.”

Climbing on Charger, Heath asked, “Jealous?”

Laughing, Nick shook his head, “Not hardly. You can have the hero worship of Timmy Rankin. I got little ones that think I’m a hero.”

With an innocent look, Heath stated, “Nick, calves don’t count.”

Nick snorted at Heath’s back and grinned before nudging Coco to his brother’s side. The brown eyes followed until the two riders disappeared from view. Hiriam finished smoking his cigar and decided his original plan of action was the correct way. Standing, he headed to the livery to obtain the carriage.

Chapter 6

The early afternoon weather was beautiful as the rented carriage made it’s way out of Stockton towards the Barkley ranch. Directions provided to the three passengers courtesy of the hostler.

Hiriam handled the team and discussed the finer points of law with his attorney’s junior partner, Ted Folcom. Hiriam’s long time friend and attorney unable to make the journey due to his wife being ill, sent Ted in his place to protect their client’s interests and assist in any and every way.

Sheila Pierson sat in the back seat of the carriage, not listening to the conversation between the two men. Her mind was on other details, details important to her future.

She’d worked for Hiriam Thomson since the age of seventeen. Her parents had perished in a house fire and she’d been left homeless. Her father had worked in Hiriam’s warehouse and he’d taken her in, given her a place to stay, a job to earn her keep.

Away from the office, Hiriam treated her like a daughter. Unfortunately for Hiriam, Sheila saw a lonely old man with no heirs and the financial wealth to propel her into the social circles of her dreams.

For thirteen years she had worked for Hiriam, thirteen years of learning his business. He was a physically fit man, his life span could last another thirty years. She knew from Ted, Hiriam had a provision in his will for her, that was not enough. She wanted it all.

Ted Folcom had no idea what hit him when he met her. She was everything he desired, he’d do anything for her. Sheila hid a smile behind her hand, he was wrapped around her finger. The only problem was he’d do anything short of murdering someone. He already forged a will, but bodily harm was out of his league.

The man who would do that for her was to arrive in two days. Blake Benton would be the one to clear the way for taking over Thomson Transport and all the property, money and assets the business entailed. Blake was the one who suggested to his lady, Sheila, the idea of winning Ted Folcom’s affections and using it to their advantage.

To Sheila, the trip to California was the golden opportunity. Away from his friends, acquaintances and the watchful eye of his attorney, Hiriam Thomson would meet his death in a tragic accident.

In California, there would be no one to question what happened to the elderly gentleman. His relatives may question, but they could easily be taken care of and further questions would be silenced. When they arrived back in Virginia, if his attorney raised any flags, he’d meet a similar fate. The dead don’t talk and they don’t question.

Life was rough, people got hurt everyday and when you don’t know your enemies are close, your odds of survival are decreased significantly.

Pulling up in front of the mansion, Hiriam helped Sheila down and the trio walked up to the front door. His stomach was twisted in knots, the anticipation flew through his veins at the upcoming meeting with his grandson. He’d decided to be forthright and introduce himself up front. Hiriam’s own dislike for games and procrastinators fueling his decision.

Inhaling a deep breath, Hiriam knocked on the wooden door. The door opened slightly and they were greeted by a small elderly black man who directed them to wait in the foyer.

“Good afternoon.” smiled Victoria floating into the foyer. “I’m Victoria Barkley.”

“Pleasure to meet you, Mrs. Barkley.” replied Hiriam, bowing slightly. “I am here to speak to Heath Thomson, if I may.”

“Mother..” stated Jarrod walking into the foyer and stopping at the sight of the unexpected guests. “I’m sorry, I didn’t realize you had company, Mother.”

Holding onto her handsome son’s arm, Victoria smiled, “This is my oldest son, Jarrod. Jarrod, these people are looking for Heath.”

“I’m afraid Heath is not here at the moment. He’s out with the hands.” informed Jarrod. “May I help you, Mr..?”

“I’m terribly sorry, Mr. Barkley. Allow me to introduce us.” sighed Hiriam. “This is Ted Folcom, my attorney. My secretary, Miss Sheila Pierson. I am Hiriam Thomson.”

Both sets of eyes looking at Hiriam could not keep the surprise out of them at the mentioned of his last name. Victoria glanced at Jarrod, her eyes sending a question to his and cleared her throat, “Your last name is Thomson?”

“Yes, Mrs. Barkley. It is of utmost importance that I speak with Heath.” stated Hiriam. “It does appear our unexpected visit is ill timed.”

“Nonsense, Mr. Thomson. Jarrod, please send Ciego to bring Heath in.”

“Yes, Mother. Excuse me.” whispered Jarrod heading around the group and departing through the front door. The last name though not common could just be a coincidence, the instincts of Jarrod’s shouted it wasn’t. His thoughts hastened his steps to find Ciego and return to the house.

“Please come into the parlor. Silas, would you bring some tea and cookies, please.” asked Victoria directing the guests to the sitting room.

“Yes’m Mrs. Barkley.” nodded Silas, his eyes held the same questioning look as Victoria and Jarrod’s at the mention of the last name.

Chapter 7

Leaving Duke with the men to finish the last bit of work, the brothers rode to the house together with Ciego following. Entering, they started for the voices floating from the parlor.

“Heath, maybe it’s an old girlfriend?” teased Nick with a wink. “Or a new admirer?”

Rolling his eyes, Heath clapped Nick on the back and shot back, “At least I don’t have to twist their arm til they agree to go out with me, big brother.”

Laughing together, the two brothers entered the parlor.

“I’m Heath Thomson.” drawled the blonde, his eyes raking over the three newcomers intently, recognition flaring at the sight of the older man. “If you were looking for me, why didn’t you say so this morning outside the store.”

“That was not the opportune time.” admitted Hiriam. “Perhaps we could speak somewhere in private.”

Heath smiled slightly, “I reckon anything you want to speak to me about can be said in front of my family.”

Nick watched closely noticing Heath’s right hand was by his gun. Looking into his brother’s face, he could see the intensity in the blue eyes. ‘Boy’s on edge’ thought Nick before moving to stand behind the trio, prepared if their intentions were not friendly towards his little brother.

Heath’s eyes caught Nick’s movement and shifted his eyes to Jarrod and Mother, standing off to the side in front of the fireplace. If anything happened, they’d be out of the line of fire. The two men wore suits, however, their attire didn’t mean their intentions were honorable.

Hiriam had known dangerous and intense men in his time, the readiness and coiled responsiveness of his grandson brought a ghost of a smile to his lips. This young’n was someone he wouldn’t have wanted to meet in a dark alley. Such a difference from the marshal hero he had seen in the morning with the young red-headed boy.

“Heath, I am not here to cause you any harm. Your brother has placed himself behind us, so please don’t feel you must watch our every move.” informed Hiriam, brown eyes glittering with admiration.

The others of the room stood silent while a puzzled look flew into the blue eyes. Nodding, Heath looked to Nick and flashed a quick lop-sided grin to his big brother.

Pushing his hat back from his forehead, Heath crossed his arms, “Well, ya’ have me at a disadvantage, mister. Why don’t you just tell me who you are and why you’re here?”

Stepping a foot closer, Hiriam’s deep voice stated quietly, “My name is Hiriam Thomson. Your mother, Leah, was my daughter. I am your grandfather.”

The reaction from her blonde son was one Victoria was not expecting. She had expected shock, surprise, wonder or disbelief.

“Get out.” stated Heath, anger interwoven in his voice, hands dropping to his side.

Hiriam straightened and titled his head slightly, “I have come a long ways to see you, Heath. I’ve been searching for your mother and my son for many years.”

Taking a step, Heath glared into the hazel eyes. “You’re alive so that means ya’ deserted my mother as a child! I want nothing to do with a man who’d do that.”

“Things in the past are not as they may seem. Perhaps you are comparing what you believe to be my actions with your own father’s?” asked Hiriam curiously when Heath turned to leave the room.

The sudden move of his grandson startled all in the room. Hiriam stood calmly looking into the barrel of the drawn pistol. The only indication of Hiriam’s tenseness was a clenching of his jaw.

“You’d best leave.” ordered Heath coldly. “Don’t come back here.”

Hiriam reached up and pushed the pistol to the side, the nonchalant and bravado of the action earning him a quick spark of light in the cold eyes and the eyes of those silently watching.

Hiriam smiled, “You are my grandson. Nothing will change that. Yes, I sent my children away when my wife died suddenly. My mind was overcome with grief. I should have kept them by my side. Heath, I can’t change the past, but I’d like to change the future.”

“I am renting the Miller house on the edge of town. Please come for dinner tonight and we can question each other fully about the past. Heath, I will not go away until I’m satisfied and I will not desert you or leave you with more questions.”

“Thank you for your hospitality, Mrs. Barkley.” nodded Hiriam walking to the door with the others following.

Long after the closing of the oak door, Heath stood planted in his spot, pistol hanging down by his side. His eyes far away, his mind quickly searching through past conversations with his mama.

“Heath?” whispered Victoria quietly, the ruffling of her dress reaching his ears and he came back to the present.

“Mother, sorry for drawing a gun in the house.” apologized Heath sliding his hogleg back into it’s holster, placing a gentle kiss on her cheek.

“Com’n, Nick. This is a working ranch.”

Heath turned on his heel and walked to the door. Nick stared after the retreating back, then hurried off on the same trail with a mumbled ‘I’ll keep an eye on him, Mother’.

Jarrod squeezed his mother’s shoulders, “What do you think, Mother?”

Sighing, Victoria patted his hands, grateful for their strength. “I think Heath’s in shock as much as he is angry. I also think he won’t be home for dinner tonight.”

Chapter 8

By the time Nick exited the front door, Heath was galloping away from the mansion on Charger. Jumping on Coco, he followed the man in the distance who was pushing the stallion hard.

‘Damn fool’s gonna break his neck’ growled Nick urging Coco forward in the same direction. Reaching the fence line, Charger was standing nearby, reins trailing on the ground.

Heath was pounding a fence post furiously into the ground when Nick rode up and dismounted. Walking over, Nick grabbed the shovel and dug the next hole. In the beginning, Nick was hard pressed to keep ahead of his little brother’s frantic and angered pace. Eventually, Heath’s pace slowed and Nick could sense the release of anger from within him being replaced with thoughtfulness.

Stopping suddenly, Heath dropped the fence post, grabbed his canteen and sat down in the shade of a tree. Nick finished the hole he was digging and sat down beside him. Heath’s head lay back against the tree, his eyes closed.

“Nick, what would you do?” asked Heath quietly after several minutes passed.

Startled, Nick glanced over at Heath whose eyes were still closed. Taking a swig from the canteen, he placed the cap back on and said, “I can’t answer that Heath. Only you can.”

Looking over, Heath snorted “Sure ya’ can, Nick. Just put yourself in my boots. What would ya’ do?”

Nick smiled slightly, “It’s not that easy. No matter what people think, it’s never easy to live another person’s life.”

“There was a time even I didn’t want to live my life.” admitted Heath softly. “An invitation to dinner? Just like we’re old acquaintances.”

“Heath, you should be asking yourself if it’s worth the regret of not knowing. Can you live with more questions if you don’t go?” queried Nick. “If you can, then have dinner at the ranch. If you can’t, well, then you know what you need to do.”

Sighing, Heath rubbed his temples, “Just what I need another thought provoking brother in the family. Are you sure ya’ don’t wanna be an attorney, Nick?”

“Quite sure.” chuckled Nick, then adding with a smirk, “Course, maybe it’s best if you stay angry with him.”

“Why?” inquired Heath with a suspicious look at the tanned face beside him.

“Well, you’ve done more work this afternoon than you’ve done all week!” stated Nick.

Rolling his eyes, Heath couldn’t hide his amusement at his brother’s teasing.

“Heath, you better hightail it to town.” growled Nick standing and pulling the smaller man to his feet.

“There’s still time, Nick.” drawled Heath. “Still got about three hours til dinner time.”

Putting an arm over Heath’s shoulders, Nick shook his head, “The barber shop closes in an hour. You don’t wanna see your granddaddy with long hair now, do you?”

Pushing Nick away from him, Heath shook his head at his brother’s laughter and mumbled loudly, “Twit brain.”

The comment only caused Nick to laugh louder.

“Hey Heath? Did you see how he pushed your gun away? For a minute, I thought he was gonna take it out of your hand and spank you with it!”

Heath’s face broke out into a grin and a chuckle escaped his lips, “That did surprise me. He didn’t even flinch Nick. I have a feeling that old man is full of tricks.”

Climbing up on their horses, the two brothers rode back to the ranch. Ciego took the horses and they walked up to the house. Heath put a hand on Nick’s arm when they reached the door.

“Nick, you are planning to come to dinner with me, right?” asked Heath hesitantly.

Smiling, Nick nodded, “Be right with you, little brother.”

“Like my shadow, Nick.” whispered Heath with a quick grin.

Winking, Nick smirked, “I’ll keep that pretty lady company while you two talk.”

Opening the door, Heath said soberly, “She looked a little narrow in the eyes to me.”

“NARROW IN THE EYES!” stammered Nick in disbelief. “Boy, you better get that hair cut soon, it’s taking over your brain and your eyes!”

Chapter 9

Victoria smiled and kissed Heath’s cheek when he entered the parlor, freshly bathed and dressed.

“Mother, I’m sorry for earlier today. I shouldn’t have drawn my gun like that.” apologized Heath quietly.

“You have nothing to apologize for.” chastised Victoria squeezing his arm, “How do you feel about this dinner with your grandfather?”

Taking time to gather his thoughts, Heath handed her a sherry and sat on the table in front of her, “I’m not sure, Mother. Part of me wants to know and part wants to leave it in the past.”

Nodding, she sighed, “I can understand that, Heath.”

“Well, I guess that’s impossible now cause he’s here. In my head, I keep going over what my mama told me when I’d ask her questions.”

“What type of questions?” asked Victoria curiously. Heath still had a penchant for not explaining his past or providing details. She never pushed him to talk about his mama. She knew if he wanted to share his memories, he would in his own time.

“When I was small and wanted to know who my father was, uh, she’d say he couldn’t be with us like a regular daddy. It was the same explanation over and over. It always ended with mama saying her daddy was in heaven and Uncle Matt was the only relative I had. Some comfort that was.” growled Heath flooded by painful memories.

Feeling a hand on his cheek, he looked up and smiled slightly.

“She thought he was dead, I don’t understand it. I just know I won’t rest easy til the questions aren’t stampeding in my mind.”

Leaning forward, her gray eyes smoldered with love, “I wish I could make it easy for you, sweetheart.”

“I do believe someone told me once, nothing is ever easy.” winked Heath flashing a lop-sided grin.

“Whoever told you such a thing must be a wise person.” admitted Victoria.

Pulling her into his arms, Heath kissed her cheek, “She was my Mother and I love her dearly. I’m a lucky man to be surrounded by this wonderful family.”

“Heath, we are the lucky ones. We’re the ones who were blessed abundantly the day you rode into Stockton.” stated Victoria firmly.

“I love you, sweetheart. We would be lost without you. Don’t feel you need to rush to get your answers. Hiriam Thomson is your grandfather. He’s your family and you need to get to know him as you have gotten to know us. Just remember you are and always will be in our hearts.”

“HEATH!” shouted Nick from the foyer causing Victoria to shake her head.

Wiping his eyes, Heath smiled, “Mother, if Nick didn’t announce his arrival that way, we’d all think he had laryngitis.”

Chuckling, Victoria hugged him again and Nick stopped his progress in the entry of the parlor. Blushing slightly from intruding on the mother-son moment.

“Ready to go, Nick?” inquired Heath smiling tenderly at his mother.

“I’ll get the horses. Don’t wait up for us, Mother.” grinned Nick leaving the room.

Walking Heath to the door, Victoria kissed his cheek again, “Please, Heath, do try to keep Nick out of trouble.”

“Now, Mother. Do you think that’s a fair thing to ask? After all, he’s the older brother.” chided Heath grabbing his hat off the table and winking, “I’ll see what I can do about your request though.”

Victoria’s laughter followed him until he closed the door and walked over to Nick. Taking the reins of Charger, Heath and Nick rode off the ranch. The brothers talked sporadically on the trip to town and dismounted in front of the house at the edge of town.

Standing before the door, Heath took a deep breath and smiled when Nick whispered.

“I’m right here, little brother.”

Chapter 10

Opening the door and extending his hand, Hiriam smiled when each man returned his greeting, “Welcome! Come in.”

Nodding, both brothers stepped in and took off their hats, placing them on the table Hiriam directed them to. Leading the way to the living room, he poured drinks for all three. Nick glanced around while sipping his drink.

“I’ve never been in this house when the Millers were here. It’s bigger than I thought it be.” stated Nick breaking the silence. “Many rooms?”

“A few. It has three bedrooms upstairs. I am not fond of hotels unless I only plan on being there a day or two. If I stay for any extended period of time, I prefer to rent a house if I can.” admitted Hiriam.

Heath drawled, “I’m not much on hotels either, especially rooms on the second floor.”

Choking on his whiskey, Nick felt Heath slapping him on the back and squeaked out. “Excuse me.”

“Are you okay, Mr. Barkley?” asked Hiriam.

Waving off the host’s concerns, Nick nodded and turned to glare at Heath.

“I’m fine, Mr. Thomson.” smiled Nick. “I hope you don’t mind my joining everyone for dinner.”

“Nonsense. The more the merrier!” grinned Hiriam. “Why don’t we go into the kitchen, I have to keep an eye on dinner.”

Surprised, Heath and Nick looked at each other. Following the elderly man into the next room, they sat at the small table while he finished the preparations.

“Mr. Thomson, where are the two people who were with you this afternoon?” inquired Heath, unsure of what to call the older man. “I didn’t get their names.”

“Ted Folcom, my attorney’s junior partner and my secretary, Sheila Pierson. They will not be joining us for dinner.” smiled Hiriam. “This is family business, not legal business. You may either call me Hiriam or grandfather, whichever you feel more comfortable with.”

“Hiriam.” said Heath quietly. “If you don’t mind, I’d like Nick to stay.”

“I wouldn’t have it any other way. He’s your brother after all.” replied Hiriam setting platters on the table. “Plenty of food for all. Nick, you may call me Hiriam also. I am not much on formality unless it’s necessary.”

As the dinner progressed, Heath and Nick were given the history of the Thomson family and Thomson Transport by their host. The tension vibrating throughout the house was thick and throat tightening.

“Your grandfather was a pirate, Hiriam?” queried Heath.

Nodding, Hiriam smiled, “From what I understand he was a bit of a scoundrel. Unfortunately, he chose the wrong profession and was run up the mast when it caught up with him leaving my grandmother to raise two boys.”

“More coffee?” asked Nick refilling the cups. “What about your father, Hiriam?”

“Nick, he also took to the sea. Father always said sea water ran through Thomson veins instead of blood. He was lost at sea during a hurricane. The sea can be very unforgiving. My mother raised me by herself in Virginia.” informed Hiriam.

“So, what you’re saying is the Thomson men have a history of deserting children.” snapped Heath, turning crimson at the harsh words.

“Heath!” growled Nick shocked at his little brother’s vicious statement.

“That was uncalled for, Hiriam. I’m sorry.” apologized Heath, his voice relaying his sincerity.

Hiriam’s brown eyes stared into the blue eyes of his grandson for several minutes.

Clearing his throat, he sighed, “Heath, you must be honest in your feelings. While I did not like your statement, I admit I like the tone even less. Please feel free to ask any questions you want. I may get angry, however, I will try to answer them as truthfully as I can. I expect no less from you.”

Nodding, Heath smiled slightly, “I agree.”

Nick let out a sigh of relief at the understanding reached between the two male relatives. He was a little putout himself over Heath’s snapping comment. Heath took out his tobacco sack and rolled a cigarette after receiving the okay from the others.

“Why did you think I was dead?” puzzled Hiriam. “Is that what your mother said?”

Nodding, Heath replied, “Yes, she thought you were. If she’d known you were alive, she’d have gone home to Virginia and everything would’ve been different.”

“You mean she wouldn’t have been in Strawberry and wouldn’t have met our Father, right?” suggested Nick.

Heath twirled his coffee in the cup, “That’s right, Nick. She could’ve had a decent life if she’d known there was family back east. I don’t know why she thought you were dead, Hiriam.”

“I don’t know either, Heath. I guess the only person who could provide the answer is your uncle, Matt.”

Jumping up, Heath blurted, “You’re not thinking of going there!”

“He is my son and your uncle, Heath. I need to see him.”

Leaning his hands on the table, the blue eyes were intense and the agitation clearly reflected in the blonde, “Have him come here, Hiriam. It’s not safe there, especially if he knows you’re wealthy. This is not the east where there’s a policeman on every corner. This can be a dangerous place. Meet Matt on your ground not on his.”

“I’ll be perfectly fine, Heath.” smiled Hiriam. “Thank you for your concern.”

Nick watched the astonishment and anger fly across Heath’s face. “You can’t be serious. You haven’t seen him in what, thirty years or more?”

Getting up, Hiriam walked to the living room and pulled some papers out of a leather satchel. Taking the papers, he laid them on the table that was cleared earlier. A tanned index finger tapped the pile of papers.

“Heath, this is a report from the Pinkerton’s. They are quite thorough in the background searches they performed for me. I know all about my son’s business and his conduct. I am quite prepared for traveling to meet him.”

Nick’s face showed his puzzlement, his lack of knowledge about what the two other men appeared to be talking about. “What are you talking about? What’s wrong with Heath’s uncle?”

Shaking his head, Heath walked over to the window and looked at the stars, “He’s very dangerous, Nick. I think she’s worse, though. Aunt Martha is crazy and there’s no telling what crazy people will do.”

“When did you see them last?” asked Nick curiously.

“When mama was murdered.”

Hiriam sat back in his chair and stared at his grandson’s back. His voice was soothing and quiet, “Heath, I know how your mama was murdered. I know you shot the man responsible and were wounded yourself. My report doesn’t say something happened that day with your uncle. What was it?”

“He walked in, looked into my eyes, looked at mama, then turned around and walked out.” answered Heath through his clenched jaw. “The sonofabitch didn’t even have a shred of humanity in him to bury mama, his own sister. I didn’t care if he helped me or not, but his own little sister! He left her to lay there and rot til I was well enough to bury her.”

Turning abruptly, Heath glared into his grandfather’s eyes, “I’m warning you now, Hiriam. That man won’t care you’re his father. All he’ll see is money and that’s it. If you go there, you’re a fool! You’d be better off to leave him in the past where he’s none the wiser.”

Putting on his hat, Heath walked out and left Nick behind at the table. Hiriam knew Heath’s warning were not unwarranted but he needed to see his son. He needed to lay some questions to rest himself.

“Thank you for dinner, Hiriam.” said Nick quietly rising and putting on his hat. “Tomorrow is Sunday and we were planning on going fishing. Say around one?”

Smiling, Hiriam chuckled, “You do realize your brother will not be happy about your invitation, don’t you?”

Shrugging, Nick grinned, “You let me worry about that.”

Chapter 11

“YOU DID WHAT?” shouted Heath his voice ringing throughout the foyer, hands gripping the front of Nick’s shirt.

“I invited Hiriam to go fishing with us.” restated Nick simply.

Heath stared at Nick as if he’d lost his mind. He was trying to comprehend the reason for his big brother’s unexpected gesture. Heath had a restless night compounded by dreams of the past. His face showed his missed sleep, his temper sharper and edgier than normal. His blue eyes reflected his confusion, the memories of the past were things he’d rather not have dredged up. You can’t change the past and thinking of it only haunted a person.

Nick wasn’t sure what time Heath had gotten home the night before. When he came out of the Miller house, Charger wasn’t tied beside Coco. Nick had returned to the ranch, falling asleep while he waited for the blonde to show. His last look at the clock in his room at been at one thirty in the morning.

“Heath, you’re wrinkling my shirt.” teased Nick quietly holding Heath’s wrists.

Pushing Nick away, Heath released his hold, glaring into the hazel eyes, “Ya’ had no right, Nick. No right at all.”

Shrugging slightly, Nick sighed, “Maybe I was a little hasty in my invitation. Heath, I thought from the way you talked about your uncle, we’d better do our best to convince Hiriam to not go to Strawberry.”

“So, you thought we’d be able to talk him out of it?” inquired Heath coldly.

“It’s worth a shot.” admitted Nick. “Somebody has to help him keep out of trouble.”

“Nick, ain’t nobody gonna be able to talk that old man out of nothing. He’s hard as iron, didn’t you see it in his eyes?” snapped Heath. “He’ll go no matter what anyone thinks.”

“I’d think you’d be more concerned about his welfare, Heath. He’s your grandfather!” snorted Nick in disbelief.

“MY GRANDFATHER?” yelled Heath. “NICK, I DON’T KNOW HIM. TO ME HE’S A PERFECT STRANGER!”

Jarrod and Victoria entered the front door, the loud voices reaching through the oak before they’d even opened it.

“WE WERE STRANGERS AT ONE TIME. NOW WE’RE BROTHERS!” retorted Nick. “WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?”

“WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE? HOW LONG, NICK? HOW LONG HAS IT BEEN SINCE WE BECAME BROTHERS? I’LL TELL YOU HOW LONG IT’S BEEN – ELEVEN MONTHS, TWO WEEKS AND THREE DAYS. WAS IT AN OVERNIGHT WELCOMING? NO!”

“WE’RE BROTHERS AND I’D LAY MY LIFE DOWN FOR YOU, NICK. YOU’RE ASKING ME TO LAY MY LIFE DOWN FOR HIM – A PERSON WHO WON’T EVEN LISTEN TO MY EXPERIENCE WITH A MAN HE HASN’T SEEN IN OVER THIRTY OR FORTY YEARS. I KNOW WHAT MATT IS LIKE, CAUSE I WAS THERE! I REMEMBER, NICK!”

“HEATH, YOU HAVE TO GET TO KNOW HIRIAM. YOU HAVEN’T EVEN GIVEN HIM A FAIR SHAKE. STOP BEING SO DAMN STUBBORN AND THINKING OF YOURSELF!”

Heath flinched physically at the insult and clenched his hands into fists. Nick’s hazel eyes reflected regret from his harsh words. “Heath, I.”

“Fine, Nick. Since you appear to think I’m unable to make a decision for myself. I’ll protect Hiriam like I would’ve done if ordered as a marshal. I’ll do my civic duty like I used to do.” replied Heath, his voice dripping with sarcasm and anger, “Mark my words, Nick Barkley. When we go to Strawberry to take care of FAMILY BUSINESS, don’t be surprised if we don’t come back! If we do get back from that hell hole, then I’ll decide if staying on this ranch is in my best interest.”

“HEATH!” called Nick after the blonde strode past the stunned Jarrod and Victoria, outside away from the heated words.

“Nick, what is going on?” asked Jarrod grabbing Nick’s arm as he followed Heath.

Victoria looked at the wounded look in her middle son’s eyes and felt her heart tighten from the pain. “Nick, what happened last night at the dinner? Is that why you’re fighting with your brother?”

Nick let out a deep shaky breath, “Heath left and I invited his grandfather to go fishing today.”

“Nick, did you ask Heath first?” inquired Jarrod firmly.

“No, I thought if Heath got to know him some more, he’d be able to talk Hiriam out of going to Strawberry. Heath’s concerned about his safety there.” admitted Nick. “Things didn’t go like I’d hoped.”

Shaking her head, Victoria admonished, “Nick, you can’t force Heath to accept a grandfather he’s never known. You should have asked Heath before inviting Mr. Thomson. I can see why he’s angry.”

“I know, Mother. I’m sorry. I gotta find Heath and talk to him.” said Nick leaving his mother and brother wondering if the damage from the heated words could be undone.

Climbing up on Charger, Heath headed towards Stockton and dismounted at the Miller house. Knocking on the door, the surprise showed in Hiriam’s face. “Heath, come in!”

“We’ll leave for Strawberry in three days, Hiriam. I’ve some things to take care of, then we’ll go.” stated Heath firmly turning and climbing on Charger. Nudging the stallion, he rode down the street away from his stunned grandfather.

Overhearing the conversation, Sheila Pierson smiled. Blake Benton was due in tomorrow.

Chapter 12

“Hi Marshal.” shouted Timmy.

Heath looked over and smiled at the red-headed boy holding onto his mother’s hand. Taking off his hat, he nodded, “Good morning, Timmy. Mrs. Rankin.”

“Morning, Mr. Thomson.” smiled Melinda Rankin holding a child of two on her left hip. “The barbershop is closed on Sunday.”

Heath put on his hat, “Yeah, reckon I forgot it was Sunday.”

“Thank you for the peppermint stick. That was very kind of you.” said Melinda quietly watching the blush form on Heath’s cheeks.

“Candy.” shouted Megan, her green eyes wide in her small chubby face.

Grinning, Heath tweaked her nose and drawled, “I ain’t been called that before, Miss Megan.”

Laughing, Melinda shook her head, “I don’t suppose so, Mr. Thomson.”

“May I?” asked Heath

“You may.” stated Melinda handing Megan to his waiting hands. She watched the wonder appear in his eyes as the little girl kissed his cheek and said, “Shal”

Timmy chuckled, “She said Marshal, mama!”

Squeezing her son’s hand, Melinda smiled, “I hear that, Timmy. I wonder where she could have heard that word.”

“From me, mama!” informed Timmy proudly, pointing to his chest. Heath flashed a lop-sided grin and tousled the boy’s hair.

“Marshal, mama can cut your hair. She used to cut daddy’s all the time.” boasted Timmy.

“Well, now Timmy, I couldn’t impose on your mama like that.” replied Heath quietly.

“Really, it’d be no problem, Mr. Thomson. I never cut Mike’s ears, not once.” teased Melinda. “After all, you’ve done for us, it’s the least I could do.”

“If you allow me to pay you like I’d pay the barber, Mrs. Rankin.” stated Heath.

Nodding, her agreement, Heath held Megan with one arm and led Charger down the street with Melinda and Timmy beside him. Entering the small house, he sat at the table while the children played in the living room. Melinda wrapped a towel around his shoulders.

“How is the new job, Mrs. Rankin?” inquired Heath quietly.

“I really like it.” stated Melinda. “Mr. Thomson, we’ve known each other for over five months now and I was wondering if we could call each other by our given names, if that’s okay.”

“Sure, Mrs. Rankin.” drawled Heath with a wink, receiving a giggle from her in response. “Sorry, I meant Melinda.”

“Very funny, Marshal.” teased Melinda receiving a grin. “Oh, I meant Heath.”

As the locks of blonde fell to the floor, Melinda described the work she was doing at the dressmakers. The excitement in her voice relaying how much she enjoyed the work of creating dresses and other garments. Completing his hair cut, she stood back and admired the new man in front of her.

“A good job if I do say so myself, Heath.” smiled Melinda handing him a mirror.

“Sure is! Thanks, Melinda.” drawled Heath placing some bills on the table. “Maybe you should open a barber shop.”

“Not enough time in the day for anything else.” sighed Melinda surprised when Heath took the broom out of her hand. “I can do that.”

“Nah, this is part of my payment for taking up your morning. I’m sure ya’ had better things planned than cutting hair off a broken up marshal.” chided Heath.

“I was going to take the children on a picnic.” stated Melinda. “The weather is perfect for one. I’d enjoy an adult’s conversation if you’d care to join us?”

Surprised, Heath sighed, “I don’t know, Melinda. Some folks may take it the wrong way, uh, well you know.”

“Heath, are we friends?” asked Melinda intently, staring into the ocean eyes.

“Yes, we are.” replied Heath curiously.

“Two friends can do whatever they want and all others be hanged.” said Melinda firmly with her chin raised. “I expect a picnic and some adult conversation, that’s all.”

The ocean eyes glittered with admiration and a wide smile lit up the handsome face. “I don’t know how much adult conversation I’ll be able to provide, but I’d be honored to attend the Rankin family picnic.”

Laughing, Melinda rushed to put the food and items in a basket. Walking into the living room, she stopped at the sight of the large man laying on his left side, building a block tower with the children. Seeing her, he grabbed Megan and stood up.

“Come on, Timmy. Looks like your mama’s ready.”

Night had fallen when Heath rode Charger back to the ranch, dismounted and lead him into the stall. The fun of the day had improved his mood significantly until he started back for home. The upcoming trip to Strawberry came back full force in his mind as Charger’s hooves beat out a steady rhythm.

Entering the front door, he took off his hat and walked into the parlor. Kissing Victoria on the cheek, he made his apologies for missing dinner and excused himself for the night.

Climbing the stairs, he knew sleep would be long in coming from the pent-up energy inside of him. Taking out his pistols and rifle he laid them on the table and proceeded to methodically clean the weapons while rolling the problem around in his head.

A knock sounded on the door and Heath heard Nick’s voice, “Heath, we need to talk.”

Opening the door, Heath gruffed, “Nick, I got nothing to say right now. Night.”

Nick stood looking at the closed door to his little brother’s room fighting the desire to kick it open and force Heath to speak to him.

Chapter 13

The next morning, Nick and the other family members gathered for breakfast.

“I was hoping Heath’d be here. I wanted to ask who cut his hair.” sighed Audra.

“The barber, Audra, who else.” gruffed Nick drinking his coffee.

“Yesterday was Sunday, Nick. The barber’s closed Sunday.” Jarrod stated. “Maybe he did it himself.”

“We’ll have to ask Heath at dinner tonight to solve this mystery.” smiled Victoria ending the hair conversation.

‘Who did cut his hair? Course, if you hadn’t made him mad, he’d have told you last night’ thought Nick with a dark scowl at the empty chair across from him.

Silas entered the room with some platters and set them on the table.

“Silas, you seen Heath this morning?”

“Yes’m Mr. Nick. He gone fore sunrise. Ver early.” stated Silas quietly. The family heard the knock at the front door and Silas hurried to answer it.

“Mr. Nick, Mr. McCall like ta speak ta ya’”

Getting up, Nick nodded, “Thanks, Silas.”

Entering the foyer, Duke twirled his hat in his hands. “Duke, something wrong?”

“Well, I ain’t sure, Nick. I was in the barn this morning checking on the mare and Heath was in there.” paused Duke, shuffling his feet nervously.

“What’s wrong with that, Duke.” puzzled Nick.

“Nick, he wanted a set of my old clothes. He gave me twenty dollars for a pair of pants, shirt and boots.”

“Old clothes?” asked Nick, “What’s he gonna do with those?”

Shrugging, Duke shook his head, “Don’t know, it looked like he was gonna be gone for a while.”

“WHAT?” shouted Nick, his heart trembled inside his large chest. How he wished he could take back those words which caused the huge rift between them. Heath left and Nick knew he had pushed his little brother into a situation where only Heath knew what the players were capable of. The rest of the family ran to the foyer at the sound of Nick’s booming question.

Duke nodded at them, “Heath had his saddlebags and a bedroll. He put them on his Modoc.”

“His Modoc?” stated Jarrod. “If he was going somewhere, why not take Charger?”

Clearing his throat, Duke took an envelope out of his pocket, “When I went back into my office, I didn’t notice this letter was on my desk until five minutes ago. It’s addressed to you, Mrs. Barkley. Nick, I, well, I don’t know if this means anything or not.”

“What else, Duke?”

“Heath was wearing two guns.” informed Duke. “I’ve never seen him wear two guns before.”

Nick’s shoulders visibly hunched at Duke’s information of the two guns. “Duke, have Coco saddled and ready for me.”

“Jingo, too.” added Jarrod.

Nodding, Duke left his employers standing in the foyer. When the door closed behind the foreman, all eyes turned to the letter Victoria held in her hands. Opening it, she took out the paper, sighed after reading the note to herself before her spoken words were heard by the others.

Dear Mother,

By the time you read this I will have been on the trail for several hours. I know what I have to do and how to do it. It came to me suddenly in the middle of the night.

Tell Nick, I have left Charger in his care and to stay on the ranch. I do not need another person to watch over.

I love you.

Heath

Leaving the letter to his Mother on Duke’s desk, Heath walked out and mounted. Heading to Stockton, he dismounted and knocked on the door of the Miller house.

“Change of plans. We’re leaving as soon as I get you a horse.” Heath informed the surprised man. “I’ll rent one from the livery, get dressed.”

“Okay, Heath. I’ll be ready when you get back.” stated Hiriam closing the door and hurrying to his room.

Grabbing a couple of shirts and pants, he stuffed them in the saddlebags purchased the day before. Writing two quick notes, he put them on the kitchen table and was waiting on the porch step when his grandson rode up.

The sun had not even peeked over the horizon as the two men headed towards their destination. Stopping for a quick lunch, Hiriam asked, “Why the two guns, Heath?”

“Self-protection.” replied Heath. “When we get closer to Strawberry, you’re gonna change clothes.”

“Change clothes? Whatever for?”

Heath smirked, “Well, so Uncle Matt and Aunt Martha won’t know you have money. If they think you’re poor, they’ll be themselves.”

“I see, Heath. I’ll be observing them in their natural states.” smiled Hiriam. “Very good, Heath. Very good.”

Shrugging, Heath asked, “Will it bother you to deceive him like this?”

Thinking for several minutes, Hiriam shook his head. “No, you were right Heath. I’ve not seen Matt since he was a boy. I want to connect with my son, however, I don’t want to put anyone in jeopardy. Your suggestion is a wise one.”

Standing, Heath smiled, “Good. We won’t be there until late tomorrow. We’d best get going.”

Chapter 14

Rising and heading to the kitchen, Sheila spied the letters on the table. Opening the envelope addressed to her, she ran up the stairs and pounded on Ted’s door.

“What’s the matter?” asked Ted, his eyes still glazed with sleep.

“Hiriam’s gone!” shouted Sheila, waving the letter in front of the man’s face.

Grabbing it out of her hand, Ted read it and shrugged, “So, he left two days early. So what?”

Angrily, Sheila clenched her small fists and screamed, “Ted, go to the hotel and bring Blake here.”

Wincing at the shrill voice, Ted held up his hands, “Alright, alright, honey. Settle down.”

Shutting the door, Ted quickly dressed and found himself wondering how he ever became involved with Sheila and now Blake Benton. The thought of the man sent shivers of fear up his spine. Ted often wondered how someone like Blake could be a friend of Sheila’s. He knew they’d grown up together in the same neighborhood in Richmond, but they were so different. He was vicious and she was so gentle.

While Ted was walking to the hotel to bring back the man in question, Sheila had found the elusive Pinkerton reports. This was the first opportunity she had to examine them since Mr. Stevens had delivered them to her boss. Hiriam kept them close to him, under lock and key, the information for his eyes only.

Her eyes widened with surprise at the impressive details the Pinkertons were able to uncover on Heath Thomson and Matt Simmons. Her brown eyes narrowed at the discovery of the grandson’s past occupation. Sheila was under no illusions, to be a marshal in this godforsaken country, the man had to be tough and dangerous. A separate paper listed the training undergone by the former lawman.

Blake Benton had a difficult time keeping the contempt off his face when Ted Folcom appeared at his room. Walking back to the house, they walked in and Sheila showed them the reports.

“He’ll be hard to kill.” admitted Blake with a frown. “We need to get close to make sure it’s done properly.”

Ted shifted nervously, sweating from the topic of conversation, ”Why not wait til they get back?”

Sheila snapped, “We can’t wait. We have to take care of them away from town.”

“I don’t like it.” complained Ted. “He’s a former marshal, someone’s gonna want to investigate his death. It’s not like he’s a drunk or a person no one would miss. Hell, his other family’s rich too.”

Blake’s head shot up, “What other family?”

“The Barkley’s. His father’s family. From what I heard around town, they’re one of the richest families here.” informed Ted.

“Really?” replied Blake, a smile gracing his tan face. His black eyes, dark like his lecherous heart. “So, if we got rid of the old man and held this Heath for ransom, we’d get twice the money, huh?”

Sheila shook her head, “Blake, don’t you think we should focus on Hiriam’s money and get out of here? I mean, how much would these Barkleys pay for a bastard son. I don’t want to take on more than we can handle.”

“Yeah, maybe you’re right.” acknowledged Blake. “We need some horses and someone to take us to Strawberry.”

“All of us?” inquired Ted hesitantly.

“Just you and me, Ted. Sheila doesn’t ride and it’d be too hard on her.”

“Maybe I should stay behind, too. I’m only an attorney.” suggested Ted.

Standing, Blake growled, “You’re coming with me! I might need whatever help you can give.”

Sheila bit her lip to stop the chuckle that threatened to escape from the terrified look appearing on Ted Folcom’s face. Turning her face away from Ted, she sent Blake a hidden wink and ran her tongue over her lips.

Blake handed Ted some money, “Go to the livery and get two horses. Ask the man there if someone can lead us to Strawberry. I need to read some more on this marshal.”

Glad to escape the dark eyes, Ted left the house and walked quickly away. Blake watched him walk down the street, turning, he pulled her into his arms and their bodies melted together. The kisses were hungry and savage, hands seeking out the treasures of each other as he propelled her backwards and lay her on the table. The time spent apart fueling their mad desires for each other, the ending of the ecstasy swift and frantic.

Blake sought her lips with a final crushing kiss. “I’ll take care of the attorney on the trail. We don’t need him since you got the faked will.”

Sheila wrapped her legs around him and pulled him closer, “Hurry back.”

Straightening their clothes, they were sitting quietly at the table when Ted returned. Ted kissed her tenderly before leaving and Sheila watched as the two rode away with an out of work ranch hand named Barrett towards Strawberry.

Chapter 15

The velvet curtain of darkness was falling when the two riders pulled up and dismounted. Watching Heath, Hiriam followed his movements, tying his horse and unsaddling him. Heath smiled slightly to himself seeing the older man mimic his steps. Hiriam had never been on a trail before and had only ridden on his farm in the country.

“I’ll take them for a drink, Hiriam.” drawled Heath. “See if ya’ can rustle up some firewood.”

“Certainly.”

Taking the reins Heath lead the tired steeds to the river, walking in a few feet while the horses drank. He was facing back towards the camp keeping an eye on the progress of the wood gatherer. His thoughts going over the trip throughout the day.

The conversation was varied and enlightening. Heath felt some of his uncertainty vanishing the more time he spent with Hiriam. The two men bound by blood, though unaware of each other’s existence until this past week, appeared to live by the same code in their separate lives.

Once the former marshal allowed himself to look at the situation with a professional eye instead of an emotional eye, he instinctively sensed Hiriam to be a man of infinite honesty and integrity. Traits, Heath admired above all else in a person.

Leading the horses back to camp, Heath handed Hiriam a curry brush. “I’ll get us some dinner going.”

Hiriam smiled and went to work on grooming the horses. Heath started a small fire, disappeared into the woods, returning with some plants and had coffee sitting on the fire by the time Hiriam finished. In the pan frying on the fire, were two large trout mixed with some greens. The smell permeated the night air, fueling the hunger within the older man.

“It smells delicious, Heath.” stated Hiriam sitting on a stump.

“Trout, wild onions and squaw cabbage.” informed Heath holding out a plate.

Silence fell between the two while they enjoyed the dinner provided by nature. Placing his plate on the ground, Hiriam sighed, “That was wonderful where did you learn about plants you could eat in the woods?”

Heath put his plate down and rolled a cigarette. Lighting it, he inhaled and shrugged, “We didn’t have much food growing up. We had to supplement the small amount of meat we did have. A friend of mama’s, Hannah, taught me about the different plants in the woods that were edible. When I was in the war, Charlie Whitehorse, a Cheyenne Indian showed me the plants to use for medicine and such. Good things to remember.”

“Very useful knowledge, I’d venture to say.” admitted Hiriam, deciding to test the waters of the calm day he’d spent in the presence of his strong grandson.

“Heath, I’m sorry I wasn’t there for Leah and Matt. I should’ve been, but as they say hindsight is twenty-twenty. I’d like for you and I to spend some time together and get to know you as my grandson. We need to build a base before we can go any further.”

The light from the fire reflected on Heath’s thoughtful face and he nodded, “Okay. After we get out of Strawberry, we’ll talk about it some more. Right now, we both need to get some answers from Matt.”

“I agree. Will you teach me your knowledge of plants?” inquired Hiriam.

Grinding out his cigarette, Heath frowned, “Hiriam, no matter what happens ya’ should understand I have no intentions of going back east. The west is my home.”

Nodding, Hiriam smiled, “Any fool can would know that Heath. The west is in your blood. I certainly am under no such impression. Somehow, I don’t think you’d like it back east – it’s confining, restrictive and well, too tame.”

Chuckling, Heath’s face lit up, “Boy howdy, I’m not a savage! Just a rancher!”

Laughing, Hiriam gathered the plates and walked to the stream. The men sat by the fire, listening to the sounds of the night when Heath’s sharp hearing caught a faint sound of metal on rock. Hissing to Hiriam, Heath tossed him the rifle, directed him to the trees by the horses and stepped away from the light cast off by the fire.

“Hello the fire!” shouted a deep voice after several minutes, the creaking of saddle leather could be heard through the cushion of darkness.

Heath shouted, “NICK, WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU DOING HERE!”

Nick nudged Coco forward up to the fire and dismounted. Heath watched three riders appearing behind Nick.

“Heath. Hiriam.” greeted Nick. “We had a heck of a time catching up.”

“Who’s watching the ranch?” snarled Heath when Jarrod, Tim and Scotty dismounted.

“Brother Heath, Duke is taking care of the ranch.” smiled Jarrod clapping the blonde on the back, ignoring the glare he received in return. “I came to keep Nick out of trouble.”

Nick smirked, “I came to find out who gave you a haircut yesterday.”

Heath snapped, “Coffee’s on. Tomorrow, turn around and go back to Stockton.”

Hiriam greeted the group while Heath took the rifle from him and walked into the darkness. Nick hesitated only a moment before heading in the same direction.

Taking the cup offered, Jarrod introduced Tim and Scotty, “Hiriam, these are two of our men, Tim and Scotty. Gentlemen, this is Heath’s grandfather, Hiriam Thomson.”

Nodding, the two couldn’t keep the surprise out of their faces. Hiriam smiled and shook their hands. “I’m afraid it’s a long tale in the making.”

Jarrod chuckled and winked, “It sure is. One I may add, whose ending has not yet been written, correct Mr. Thomson?”

A wide smiled graced the older man’s tanned face, “You are correct, Mr. Barkley. You are correct.”

Looking in the direction the two brothers had disappeared into, Scotty mused quietly, “Mr. Barkley, you think the marshal boss is gonna be able to unattach Nick from his hip this time?”

Smirking, Jarrod and Tim shared a soft chuckle and their eyes sparkled with amusement. “Not this time.”

Seeing the puzzlement in Hiriam’s face, Jarrod explained how difficult it had been for Nick when Heath had gone after Dan Nichols. When his little brother came back, Nick first read him the riot act for taking so long to gather the evidence on the man and then proceeded to shadow his every waking moment.

“This bond, well, they’re very lucky to have it between them.” smiled Hiriam. “Many will live a lifetime without experiencing such a thing. Those boys have been blessed by the gods, I hope they realize that.”

Jarrod winked, “They’ve also been blessed with the Barkley stubbornness.”

Chapter 16

Heath perched himself on a log of driftwood by the stream listening to the water gurgling, rifle laying across his knees. The faint twinkling of spurs announced Nick’s arrival before his brother reached his side. Sitting beside his blonde brother, Nick sighed deeply.

“Heath, I don’t care what you say, I’m not going back tomorrow.”

“That’s typical.”

“Typical? What do you mean by that?”

“Just what it says. Typical. Means nothing new, nothing seems to change.”

“You’re starting to talk like Jarrod! Speak English.”

“Nick, this is what you wanted. You wanted me to take my grandfather to Strawberry, so I am. I’m not thinking of myself, only of his protection. Now that’s not good enough for you?”

Heath could almost feel the flinching of Nick’s body in the darkness. The deep voice was full of pain and anguish.

“I’m sorry Heath. I didn’t mean to say those things, honest. I was out of line.”

Heath said quietly, “I’ve a job to do and I can’t do it if I’m worried about you and the others. Hiriam and I are going into Strawberry. Alone.”

“Heath, we just want to help. Let us.”

“No.”

“WHY NOT?”

“Dammit, Nick. I said NO! Isn’t that clear enough? I can’t have a whole gang of people riding in there. Go back to the ranch!”

“What could happen with six of us riding into Strawberry?” asked Nick puzzled by the other’s concern.

Agitation was flowing off his little brother when he stood up and started pacing on the shore of the stream.

“Nothing could happen, that’s what. Matt and Martha will hightail it if they see a group of riders coming. If Matt feels cornered, he’ll fight like the devil. With just Hiriam and me, it’s gonna be hard enough to get Uncle Matt to talk. If there’s a whole gang surrounding him, we can forget it. Nick, for me. Stay out of Strawberry.”

“It’s my fault you’re even here. I don’t know, Heath.” scowled Nick, shaking his head.

“A compromise then.” suggested Heath knowing his forthright brother would have no qualms of taking the bull by the horns or taking Matt by the scruff of the neck in hopes of shaking answers out of the man for his little brother.

“What compromise?” asked Nick suspiciously.

“You can come up to the outskirts of Strawberry, no further. You’ll be close but not too close.”

“If I agree, you have to tell me Heath.”

“Tell you what?” inquired Heath.

“Who cut your hair?” smirked Nick seeing the blush creeping up his brother’s neck in the moonlight.

“Fine, ya’ got a deal.” stated Heath firmly shaking Nick’s hand.

“First Heath, about what I said..”

“Hell, just forget it, Nick. I was hot headed and short tempered that day.” grinned Heath receiving a giant bear hug.

“Okay, who cut your hair? I already know it wasn’t the barber.” queried Nick anxiously about to receive the answer to the family’s breakfast mystery.

“Mel.” answered Heath over his shoulder walking back towards camp.

“WHO’S MEL?” called Nick at the back pointed at him. Jumping up, he rushed after his brother. “HEY, THAT’S NOT FAIR! HEATH!”

The next morning, Hiriam donned his new outfit.

The clothes hung on his frame giving him a withered appearance, his well kept hair lay ungroomed under his battered hat. His face sported a growth of salt and peppered whiskers. His pocketwatch and ring taken off and put in Nick’s saddlebag for safe keeping.

The others could not believe the change in the older man from wealthy to poverty ridden with simply a change of clothes. Apart from the three men sitting around the fire drinking coffee, Jarrod and Nick watched Heath clean his weapons before sliding them into the twin holsters.

The tension in Heath created knots in his brothers’ stomachs. With a flash, his hands moved and two guns appeared. Nick who’d seen his brother’s quickness several times when he was practicing heard a startled gasp escape from Jarrod, who’d only witnessed the maneuver of lightning speed once before.

Opening his saddlebags, Heath took out a sling with a knife, putting it on under his vest. The sling hung between his shoulder blades, the handle of the knife within his grasp with a small movement.

“Heath, are you sure about this?” inquired Jarrod nervously. “You carry any more weapons and you won’t be able to walk.”

Heath flashed his brothers a wide smile. “Just prepared to..how did Hiriam put it…’Observe them in their natural state’. Don’t worry, I know you’ll be within calling distance if I need ya’.”

“That’s right, little brother!” replied Nick emphatically. His voice hiding the apprehension flowing throughout his body. Jarrod raised an eyebrow not fooled one iota by Nick’s firm tone of agreement.

Looking into the hazel and blue eyes, Heath reiterated, “Outskirts of town, no further.”

“We got it Heath.” snapped Nick. “Sorry.”

Heath held Nick by the back of his neck and stared into the worried eyes, “I know it’s gonna be hard, Nick. Do I need to tie you to a tree to keep you out of town?”

Jarrod chuckled and Nick shook his head, “No, guess not. Just don’t take any chances, okay?”

“I won’t. Now let’s go.” sighed Heath.

Chapter 17

Barrett was puzzled by his traveling companions. He didn’t need anyone to tell him the dark eyed man was dangerous. Coldness and treachery oozed from him like body odor in lieu of the sweet smell of aftershave. The tall thin man, nervous and jumpy was definitely out of his element. His frantic eyes always kept the darker man in his field of vision.

Stopping for a quick lunch and to rest the horses, Barrett boiled water for coffee, his voice was low when it reached Blake’s keen ears, “Who you looking for, mister?”

Blake studied the ranch hand’s face, “What makes you think we’re looking for someone?”

Barrett sneered, “That’s the only reason I can figure for you to be paired up with the likes of him.”

Chuckling, Blake grinned, “Beggars can’t always be choosy, my friend.”

“Maybe I can help, well, for a price.” offered Barrett off-handily.

“Perhaps you can, Barrett.” said Blake, staring intently into the brown eyes. “Do you know Heath Thomson?”

Barrett’s eyes flared with an evil light. “Yeah, I know the bastard. Are you gonna kill him?”

“He and his grandfather.” smiled Blake causing a chuckle of delight to escape from Barrett.

Ted Folcom heard the chuckle and walked back to the fire. “Blake what are you doing? How do you know we can trust him?”

Blake snapped, “Shut up, lawyer. I’m running the show here. If you don’t like what I’m doing, you handle the killing.”

Barrett laughed when Ted Folcom’s face turned white from either anger or repulsion, he wasn’t sure which. The tall thin man walked away from the two at the fire.

Looking at Barrett, Blake stated coldly, “You turn on me and I’ll disembowel you, my friend.”

Barrett swallowed compulsively from fear and nodded, “Nothing would make me happier than to spit on Thomson’s dead body.”

Throwing out the last of his coffee, Blake grinned, “We have an understanding then, my friend.”

The next day with miles on horseback behind them, the trio was hidden in the trees looking at the group of men waiting on the outskirts of town.

“That’s Nick and Jarrod Barkley with two of their hands.” informed Barrett. “Thomson’s brothers.”

“Looks like they’re waiting for someone.” puzzled Blake. “I don’t see the old man.”

“He’s probably in town meeting with his son.” advised Ted.

“The bastard’s with him looks like. We could circle around them and go into town.” suggested Barrett.

Agreeing, Barrett led his group back to the horses and through the trees. Emerging from the trees, the trio dismounted and made their way up an alley. Stopping, Barrett peered around the corner and pointed out two horses tied in front of the hotel.

“Good job, Barrett.” whispered Blake. “Let’s head over and see what’s going on.”

Arriving at the outskirts of Strawberry, Heath stood beside Hiriam while he paid his respects to his daughter in the small cemetery. Tears fell from his eyes, the chance of knowing and holding his daughter, would have to wait til they met again in another place, another life.

“Hiriam, we’d best get going.” stated Heath quietly squeezing the older man’s shoulder.

Nodding, Hiriam wiped his face. “I regret Leah will never know one single day never went by when I didn’t think of her. She was always in my thoughts and in my heart.”

“You’ll see her another time, Hiriam. Let’s go.”

Hiriam followed Heath out of the small graveyard to where Nick and Jarrod stood waiting by the horses. Jarrod hugged his little brother and held him by the shoulders, his blue eyes piercing the others.

“Watch yourself.” ordered Jarrod receiving a nod of agreement.

Nick kicked at the ground with his boot toe, stopping when Heath stood in front of him. The hazel eyes looked deeply into the sapphire ones, “If I get even a small feeling something’s not right, I’m coming in.”

Smirking, Heath nodded, “I would be disappointed if you didn’t, Nick. Just don’t bust in through the front door. Move like my shadow, okay?”

Wrapping his arms around the blonde, he clapped him on the back, whispering in his ear. “Do what you have to, the cavalry’ll be right here.”

Heath mounted and rode beside Hiriam down the desolate streets, stopping briefly outside the small cabin which sheltered a little boy and his mother from nature’s element but not from the disparaging element of mankind.

Dismounting in front of the hotel, Heath took the riding thongs off his pistols, looked up and down the street. Stepping up on the boardwalk, he entered through the open door with Hiriam following.

Martha looked up from behind the counter and stared at the men in the doorway. Her curious look turned to disgust and loathing at the sight before her. Hiriam stopped beside Heath, his eyes widening at the hatred on her face for his grandson.

“What are you doing here? GET OUT!”

Heath’s jaw clenched and he walked closer, “Nice to see you too, Aunt Martha. Where’s Matt? I have someone that wants to meet him.”

Her eyes widened and shot around nervously in their sockets, “GET OUT OF HERE, MARSHAL!”

Heath yelled out. “Settle down, Martha. I’m not a marshal anymore!”

“Look out!” shouted Hiriam pushing the blonde to the side.

Chapter 18

The echoes of gunfire reached the ears of the anxious group down the street. Jumping on their horses, Nick lead the group galloping down the street past the alley where three men had just ducked out of sight. Flying out of the saddle, he burst through the open door, gun in hand entering the chaos reigning in the lobby with Jarrod and the others following a few steps behind.

Heath was pressing a bloody cloth to his grandfather’s upper back and holding a screaming woman away from him with the other hand. “You killed him, you bastard!”

“Dammit, Martha.” growled Heath shoving her. “Git away.”

Tim grabbed the hysterical woman and pulled her out of the way. Jarrod knelt beside the two men laying on the other side of the room, their bodies and pulses had been stilled by well placed bullets to their hearts.

Scotty and Nick dropped down across from Heath, the blonde looked up his face void of color, blue eyes full of pain. “Hiriam pushed me out of the way. I, I shot my uncle, Nick.”

“It’ll be alright, Heath. Let’s get his coat off.” said Nick gently, moving Heath’s shaking hand aside. Scotty jumped up and grabbed some towels lying on the counter.

Jarrod helped Nick take off the coat and lift the shirt on the unconscious man. Both brothers sucked in their breath at the lash scars across Hiriam’s pale back. Heath sat on the floor and stared at the marks, his own back of scars itching at the sight of them, his head bobbed slightly.

“HEATH!” exclaimed Scotty catching him as he fell over. The blonde was dead weight in the man’s arms. Lifting his hand, Scotty swore at the amount of blood. Nick pulled up Heath’s shirt, exposing the gaping wound in his right side, hidden by his dark vest and the blood they assumed had belonged to his grandfather.

“Damn fool!” stated Nick taking a towel from Scotty and holding it over the wound. “Why didn’t you say something?”

Jarrod examined the wound on Hiriam’s shoulder and nodded, “Clean through, Nick. The bleeding’s stopped. Heath?”

“He’s got an exit wound too. Thank god for that.” mumbled Nick holding the towel firmly. “What the hell happened here?”

“That no good bastard murdered my husband!” screamed Martha. “I hope he rots in hell! Even hell is too good for the likes of him!”

“Shut up, lady.” growled Tim holding onto her arms.

“Get her away from my brother.” snarled Nick. “Lock her in a room or something, Tim.”

Pulling her by the arms, Tim shoved the woman in the office and pulled the door shut. Turning the key in the lock, he cringed at the sound of furniture being destroyed and demolished, her screams piercing through the wood.

Moaning and turning his head, Heath heard Nick calling him through the dark curtain covering his head.

“Open your eyes, boy!” shouted Nick tapping the pale cheek, smiling at the sight of the blue orbs looking at him.

“Dammit Heath, next time tell us you’re hit!” snarled Nick cupping his brother’s cheek.

“Grandfather took one for me.” mumbled Heath, pain from his side making him gasp. “I’m okay.”

“Yeah, sure you are and I’m the president!” replied Nick sarcastically.

Pushing himself up onto his left elbow, Heath’s weakened body felt Nick’s hands support him. “Hiriam!”

Jarrod smiled, “He’ll be okay, Heath. He’ll be fine.”

Nick held Heath in his arms while Scotty finished bandaging the wound. Droplets of perspiration formed on Heath’s face from the pain bursting in his side. Nick wiped his little brother’s forehead and helped him to his feet.

“Nick, we gotta get a wagon for Hiriam.” whispered Heath leaning heavily on his brother.

“Hiriam’s not the only one gonna ride in a wagon, little brother.” stated Nick following Heath’s eyes at the sight of the two men across the room.

“I gotta see them.”

“Heath, we’ll take care of them.” suggested Nick.

“I need to see the other man. Please, Nick.” whispered Heath closing his eyes briefly fighting the darkening edges on his vision. Scotty and Nick helped the blonde walk across the room. Heath stared at the man laying a few feet from his uncle.

“You know him?” inquired Nick receiving a nod from his brother before his eyes rolled in the back of his head and they supported his full weight.

“Stubborn, cantankerous.” muttered Nick picking Heath up in his arms and carrying him to a sofa in the lobby.

Hiriam saw Nick carrying Heath and stared at Jarrod with glazed eyes. “How’s my grandson?”

“You’re both gonna be fine, Hiriam.” smiled Jarrod. “We’ll take you home with us.”

Wiping his face with a shaky hand, Hiriam moaned, “God, some men tried to kill us.”

“What happened?” asked Nick.

“Martha. I’ve never seen such hatred on a woman’s face before. She was screaming Heath was a marshal. He shouted he wasn’t and wanted to talk to Matt. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw two men rush in from the room over there with guns pointed at him. I pushed Heath out of the way.” whispered Hiriam his burst of energy fading quickly. “What happened to the men?”

“Heath shot the men, Hiriam.” replied Jarrod softly.

“Where’s Matt?”

Nick and Jarrod glanced at each other searching for the words. The glazed brown eyes saw the guarded looks between the brothers and welled with tears.

“God, was one of them Matt?” whispered Hiriam his eyes closing of their own accord.

Tim entered the lobby, “I found a wagon.”

Chapter 19

“Jarrod, what are we gonna do with that woman?” asked Nick gesturing to the locked office where the sounds of destruction and screams finally ceased.

“Guess she comes with us, Nick. We can’t leave her here.” sighed Jarrod.

Scowling, Nick shook his head, “She’s not riding in the wagon. I don’t want her anywhere near Heath!”

“She’ll have to ride a horse then. I don’t see any other way.”

Walking over to the door, Nick stood to the side and knocked, “Mrs. Simmons!”

No answer could be heard from the woman inside after several minutes. Putting the key in the lock, Nick turned the tumbler and pushed open the door. Furniture and the office contents lay strewn all over the room. A hole had been opened in the rotting wall of the dilapidated building which led to the backside of the hotel. Martha Simmons was nowhere in sight.

“She’s gone, Jarrod.” yelled Nick. “She took off through a hole in the wall.”

Jarrod stood in the office door and shook his head, “Nothing we can do about it. Let’s get Heath and Hiriam home.”

“Heath said she’s crazy, we better keep a close eye on him.” stated Nick leaving the office.

Nick climbed in the back of the wagon with Scotty. Jarrod took the reins and Tim followed with the horses. Scotty and Nick wiped the droplets of sweat off the two wounded men. Both of their bodies showing signs of fever and shivering from the loss of blood.

During the trip, Hiriam regained consciousness intermittently, his brown eyes would gaze upon his pale grandson laying beside him. His chance of answers from his son lost, taken away in a blink of an eye by his now only living relative. A sense of loss welled up within him. The loss of having the certainty to lay the past to rest. The loss of the chance to talk with the man who had grown out of the child he left behind.

Scotty pushed water into the older man each time he woke to help stave off the effects of the bullet which pierced his body. The slow trip back to Stockton continued with only a period of stopping to change horses in the harnesses. Jarrod pushed the horses as hard as he could given the road and the condition of the men laying in the back of the wagon bed.

They traveled continuously through the night, Heath’s fever continued rising, the pain he was under clear in his facial expressions, his outcries. His words were mumbled and disjointed memories. The recent past mixed with thoughts of years ago.

The worry in Nick’s face, the quiver in his voice as he tended to his little brother were not hidden from anyone in the vicinity. The strain of caring and concern taking its toll on all around the blonde man.

“Nick!” whispered Heath faintly.

“I’m here, Heath.” soothed Nick squeezing the smaller man’s shoulder tightly, looking into the vacant blue eyes.

“I shot Matt.”

“Everything’s gonna be fine Heath.”

“Frank?”

“Sawyer’s not here. He’s at home.” smiled Nick.

“Grandfather lost. I killed his chance.”

“You didn’t have a choice, little brother.”

“Wounded, killed him instead. I’m such a bastard.” whispered Heath, his eyes closing after a gasp of pain.

Grabbing Heath by the shoulders, Nick shook him and roared, “DON’T EVER CALL YOURSELF THAT AGAIN, BOY!!”

“NICK! STOP IT!” called Jarrod grabbing Nick’s arm. “He doesn’t know what he’s saying, Nick.”

Looking down at the waxen scarlet cheeked face, Nick bit back a sob and held Heath to his chest, cupping the drenched blonde hair, “Jarrod, he’s getting worse. Something’s wrong! The bullet mighta hit something inside. SOMETHING’S NOT RIGHT!”

“We’re only two or three hours out of Stockton. Tim, ride ahead and bring back Dr. Merar.” ordered Jarrod watching the man tie the horses to the back and spurring his mount away.

Hiriam’s shaky hand wiped the tears from his eyes. Pushing himself to a sitting position with Scotty’s help, he grabbed Heath’s limp hand.

“It’s Matt’s fault, not yours, Heath.” called Hiriam firmly. “Hear me, boy. It’s not your fault.”

Hiriam looked up into the tormented hazel eyes of Nick, “It’s all my fault, Nick. I shouldn’t have gone to Strawberry. I should’ve met Matt on neutral ground like Heath suggested.”

“It’s not your fault, Hiriam. None of us knew they’d react like that.” replied Nick wiping Heath’s face. “Heath’ll be okay, you’ll see. He’s tough as they come, right Scotty?”

Forcing a smile, Scotty nodded, “Yeah, the marshal boss is one tough cookie all right.”

Chapter 20

Jarrod had never been so happy to see a man as he was to see Dr. Howard Merar riding towards them from a distance with Tim. Stopping the wagon, Howard climbed in the back and knelt by Heath’s side while Tim tied his buggy to a tree.

“When’s the last time he came to?” asked Howard unwrapping the bandage and frowning at the bruise which showed on the lean stomach. Probing gently with his fingers, caused a weak moan of pain.

“About three hours ago, doc.” whispered Nick.

“His fever’s high, his stomach’s distended and this bruise is an indication of internal bleeding. Nick, start a fire and boil some water. Jarrod and Scotty, help this man down and set up a place for him in the shade. I’ll need to keep Heath in the wagon.”

Jarrod and Scotty helped Hiriam down from the wagon to a spot under a tree. Scotty stayed beside the older man while Jarrod went back to the wagon. Howard looked around and pointed. “Move the wagon into the grass there and unhitch the horses.”

“Why, Dr. Merar?” asked Jarrod.

Nick stopped by the side of the wagon upon hearing Jarrod’s question. His hazel eyes narrowed at the look on the family physician’s face.

“It’s his appendix. The bullet must have nicked it. I’m gonna have to remove it and don’t want to take the chance on the horses moving while I’m performing surgery.” replied Howard moving the blankets lying in the back of the wagon. “I also don’t want any dust from the road rising up after I’ve opened him up.”

“Surgery? Can’t you wait til we get him back to your office?” asked Nick his voice filled with panic. “It’s not exactly sterile out here.”

“Boys, I’m surprised he’s still alive if you want the truth. It must be a very small nick and slowly seeping out blood. He can’t wait. I would if I could, but I can’t. Either way with surgery or not, Heath may not make it.”

“Hiriam wants to know about perhaps a transfusion.” called Scotty.

“Maybe after the surgery’s done if he needs it. He’s losing blood, but the damaged organ is also poisoning him. Luckily it hasn’t burst, however, it still has to come out.” stated Howard. “Who’s that man?”

“Heath’s grandfather. Long story.” stated Jarrod climbing into the driver’s seat and moving the horses to the spot Howard picked out. Jumping down, he unhitched the horses and picketed them on the grass on the other side of the road.

“Nick, take my place and keep talking to him.” ordered Howard grabbing his bag and walking to the fire.

Nick climbed up beside his little brother and held onto his left hand, leaning over to speak into Heath’s ear.

“Heath, it’s me, your shadow, boy. Dr. Merar thinks you might not make it. YOU AND I KNOW DIFFERENT, DON’T WE BOY? We didn’t travel this far for you to leave me running the ranch alone. No, we sure didn’t. You’re not a quitter, remember? You got that Barkley blood in you and BARKLEYS DON’T QUIT!”

Heath’s head moved slightly towards the buzzing in his left ear, Nick smiled and ran his hand through the short blonde hair.

“Sides the ranch, you got all those horses to train! Audra’s birthday’s next month and she’s gonna have a big shindig. I don’t really like parties but I love the beer we get to have and all that fine food.”

“All of Stockton’s beautiful ladies will be there. Course, you having short hair now, that might cut into some of those women making goggle eyes at you. That’s okay, cause leaves more for me.”

“When you get better, you gotta tell me what you did with all those hair ribbons. That’s a mystery and Mel is another mystery, I need your help solving.”

Leaning down, he placed a kiss on the hot forehead and whispered, “I love you, little brother. I’ll be waiting for you to wake up and growl at me.”

Nick gave the hand one final squeeze before relinquishing his spot to Dr. Merar. Jarrod climbed in and whispered into Heath’s ear. Taking the chloroform and cloth, Jarrod followed Howard’s instructions. Nick poured alcohol onto the doctors hands.

“Thanks, Nick.” smiled Howard. “Why don’t you wait by Heath’s grandfather, I’m sure he’s very frightened.”

Nick hesitated, looked up at Jarrod who nodded and called out. “Nick is gonna wait by Hiriam. I’m right here, brother Heath.”

“Heath, make a liar out of me and I’ll make sure you have the assistance of a pretty nurse during your recovery.” shouted Howard before taking hold of his scalpel.

Nick placed the bottle onto the wagon bed and sat beside the older man. Wrapping an arm across Hiriam’s shoulder, Nick felt the trembling in the man.

“He’s gonna be okay, Hiriam. You’ll see.” whispered Nick, his throat hoarse and constricted with lumps of emotion. “Heath’ll be up and around in no time at all.”

Hiriam closed his eyes and his lips moved silently. His prayer for only the ears of the one above them, not for mortal ears. Tim and Scotty hung their heads sending their thoughts upwards pleading for their marshal boss to be allowed to stay.

Continued…