Journey into Darkness

Chapters 1-15

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 devil grabbed him again, twisting his insides in agony, searing him with fever, searing him with desire. It held him in its grasp plying and molding his mind, seeking to strip him of his last shred of dignity, his last shred of human decency.

Distorting his thoughts. Distorting his emotions. Distorting events in his life. Taking away the feeling of family, the feeling of love. Replacing his strongest emotions with fear, hunger and darkness.

He fought vainly against the hold of the devil. He strived to break it’s grip on him, the hold which had been forced upon him by others. Never would this man have willingly ventured into a path which left him at the mercy of the devil. Never would this man have willingly subjected his inner being to all that was evil in this world.

Repeated forcible tastes of what the devil offered was tempered with longer spans in between. The pain which overtook everything in him during these spans of denial had him wishing he were dead. He wanted the pain to stop, to cease, to be taken away at all costs.

The ritual of his caretakers was ruthless and cunning. This man had blood of steel. This man was on a path that could not easily be undone.

Shaking and moaning at the hunger in him, the man cried and cursed at his weakness. He screamed and cursed at his caretakers when they gave him back into the devil’s hold.

The drug worked its way slowly through his system and bliss spread across his face. The euphoria was tempered with his inner self screaming out to not give in, not give in to the questions they asked.

He didn’t know how much longer he could hold out against them, against the repeated interrogation, another’s life was held in his hands. His hands in the bonds of iron which shook constantly now clenched in fury at his captors.

The door opened and light streamed across the gaunt, bruised face of the man chained to a wall. His eyes blinked against the brightness and he turned his face away, only to cry out in pain when his chin was grabbed. The large hand twisted his head on its neck, pushing the back of his head into the wall and forcing him to look upwards.

Smiling, the woman knelt down and purred, “Why fight? No one can help you, just tell us the place where he is and you can go home.”

‘Home’ echoed through his mind conjuring up images of a group of smiling people, love in their eyes. The hunger for a way out of the darkness and the love of his family almost turned his blood of steel to blood of water. The home he loved and longed for in the darkness overrode the hunger for the devil’s brew.

Suddenly flashing before him were two pairs of eyes, hazel and blue. The eyes censured him into silence. He could not give up another to save himself. They would not and he was one of them, so he would not.

“Go to hell!”

“YOU’RE A FOOL!” she screamed angrily holding his face in her hands. “No one’s coming for you. You’re all alone! You’ll die here and be forgotten.”

The fear of being forgotten flashed momentarily in his eyes before reason took over. They would never forget him, they would be looking for him.

“Leave us!” she ordered waiting until the door closed.

“Tell me where he is. Soon you will be addicted to the drug, you need it more and more, you want it more and more, soon you will tell us everything. But if you give me the answer now, I will take you from this place. Tell me!” whispered the lilting voice while she stroked her fingertips over the red streaks in his face, her tone soothing and promising. He knew she was only promising death and nothing more, evil was her twin sister.

“I’m gonna kill you with my bare hands!” he shouted bringing his head forward and smashing it into her delicate face.

Crying out in pain, she fell back onto the floor and the door was flung open. Holding her hand over the bruised eye, satisfaction ran through him and he laughed at the small victory.

“Hurt him, but don’t kill him!” she ordered leaving the room.

Blue eyes looked up at the massive man glaring down at him and he swallowed the lump of fear in his throat. Taking a breath, Jarrod Barkley, attorney at law, readied himself for the pain he knew would be his only companion against the darkness he was rapidly falling into.

Chapter 2

Two strong willed brothers’ faces flashed in his mind, Jarrod grinned in the darkness and moaned from the pain it caused. He survived another round, another subjection to pain, another session of questions. Leaning his head back against the wall, he fought to control the fear and desolation rising up within him, weakness from the beatings and the drugs were taking their toll.

His body hurt everywhere, no place had been left untouched. The pain was a constant reminder which he latched on to keep his strength, to keep from breaking. Using the throbbing of the pain, he forced his mind to remember the importance of not betraying the location. The location of the man had to stay hidden at all costs.

Closing his eyes, he sought the faces of his family, their faces strengthening his resolve and his soul in preparation for when the desire for the devil would infest him again. He felt the strength of the two men he called brothers and willed it to empower himself as he sat against the wall, arms held out by chains, the desire to shed tears like a baby blinked back as he listened to their voices in his head. They urged him to hold on and stay strong, they hadn’t forgotten.

‘We’re coming Pappy.’

Months earlier…

“Nick, that horse can’t be broke!” drawled Heath. “There are some animals so wild, you can’t take that outta ‘em.”

Nick shook his head, “Nice try. I think you’re just mad cause I spotted him first.”

“For pete’s sake, how many times do I have to tell ya’ I don’t care about that horse!” snapped Heath waving his hands in disgust and banging a fist on the corral fence to emphasize his point. “Sometimes you are too stubborn even for me!”

Looking away, Nick bit the inside of his cheek to stop his laughter. He knew Heath wasn’t interested in the horse and he knew this animal was one that couldn’t be broken. Any man with enough horse sense could see it. He just found it highly satisfying to aggravate the younger man with his stubbornness.

“Hey Jarrod!” called Heath in greeting as he made his way to the rider entering the yard with Nick dogging his heels. “You’re home early!”

“That I am brothers of mine.” replied Jarrod with a smile, his eyes twinkling at the sight of the two men. “What are you two up to?”

Snorting, Nick wrapped an arm over the suited shoulder, “What do you think we’re doing? This ranch doesn’t run itself you know!”

Heath smirked, “Gotta tell ya’ Jarrod, it’s a good thing I came along when I did. Nick needs all the help he can get! His ranching skills are sorely lacking.”

Jarrod laughed loudly at the look of outrage on Nick’s face before he snapped. “Smart ass!”

“Twit brain!” snorted Heath propelling the attorney away from the dark clothed rancher with one deft move.

“How’s the legal profession? Got any openings for Nick?”

Jarrod laughed at the question, his blue eyes glimmering when Nick growled and grabbed at the blonde who dodged his hands.

Shaking his finger at his irate brother, Heath smiled, “Uh uh, remember what happened last time you grabbed me.”

Nick paused for a moment and retorted, “The only reason you get the upper hand is cause you fight dirty, Heath!”

“I do not!” exclaimed Heath stepping in front of the taller man.

“Yes you do! You always use those holds nobody else knows! That’s not fair!” informed Nick glaring down at the shorter man, nose to nose, neither budging an inch.

Chuckling, Jarrod put an arm over each shoulder and squeezed tightly, “It’s a good thing you two are brothers, otherwise you’d more than likely kill each other with your competitive natures.”

Winking, Heath flashed a lop-sided grin, “Nah, Pappy. I’d only hurt him a little.”

Laughing, Nick grabbed the back of the blonde’s neck and shook him slightly, “Dream on, boy!”

Patting the strong backs, Jarrod walked back to Jingo and took his briefcase out of his saddlebags. Ciego took the faithful animal to the barn as the brothers walked to the house.

Victoria and Audra were in Denver taking time to visit with the newest Barkley member born to Uncle Jim’s son, Ted. A bouncing baby girl named Victoria after Ted’s favorite aunt, albeit, his only aunt.

Cleaning up, the three brothers ate a quick dinner before heading to the study for drinks and pool.

“I got a wire from Eugene today. Seems a friend of his needs an attorney.” said Jarrod handing Nick and Heath drinks.

“What kind of trouble is his friend in?” asked Heath curiously.

Shrugging, Jarrod said, “I don’t know yet. He only said a friend of his needed an attorney and Gene set up an appointment for him in my offices on Thursday in San Francisco.”

Scowling, Nick shook his head, “What kind of people is that kid hanging out with down there in Berkley? Maybe you better speak with him about the company he keeps, Jarrod.”

Rolling his eyes, Heath shook his head, “Nick, don’t go jumping all over Gene’s case. Hell, you don’t even know what the kid’s done or why he’d need an attorney. Just cause he does, doesn’t mean Gene knew anything about it!”

“Well, it must be something bad since he needs a lawyer and one as good as our brother.” stated Nick firmly.

“Why thank you, Nick.” smiled Jarrod.

“For what?” puzzled Nick, glaring at his two laughing brothers.

“For being you, Nick.” winked Jarrod setting his glass down. “Good night, boys. I have to catch the train early tomorrow.”

“Night Pappy.” replied Nick automatically searching his mind for why Jarrod thanked him.

“Jarrod, I’ll ride with you in the morning. Grandfather’s leaving for the east coast tomorrow for a visit and I’m gonna see him off.” smiled Heath. “Night Nick.”

“Yeah, night.” gruffed Nick.

Walking out of the study, Heath grinned, “Sometimes its just too easy, isn’t it?”

Clapping his younger brother on the back, Jarrod agreed whole heartedly as they climbed the staircase together.

“That’s why we keep him, Heath.”

Chapter 3

San Francisco, California was bustling with movement each hour of the day, every day of the week. The city was growing, the metropolis thrived with businesses, good and bad. Jarrod Barkley was as comfortable in the fine restaurants in San Francisco as he was in the bunkhouse on the Barkley ranch or the inside of a courtroom.

He was a rare person who could fit into two different worlds, each vastly different from the other. Sophistication was not foreign to him as it was to some who had grown up on a ranch. His attire was suited for the environment he was currently in. His suits made of the finest material, his boots highly polished, his hat freshly brushed.

He was the epitome of a successful lawyer. Suave and polished, his mind sharp and inquisitive, his nature caring and generous could turn to ruthless and determined when on a trail of a criminal, seeking the truth.

Very few citizens inside the city limits of San Francisco knew the steel which was in the man. His name was well known, his skills as a defender of justice highly respected. But the steel within the man was hidden beneath his suave exterior. His good looks and light blue eyes swooned many a maiden in the city and country. He was a man who socialized but never took advantage of the fairer sex.

Entering the building which housed his office, Jarrod took off his hat and hung it on the coat tree. The office building was no more than twenty minutes from his comfortable house, the location for the office selected by his Father and the first month’s rent paid as a gift to start his eldest son out on his own in the legal profession. The site of the building was now considered prime realty and hungered after for it’s proximity to the business district, surrounded by the wealth of the city kept in banks and prestigious restaurants playing to the upper class.

The office was spacious and warmly decorated. The wood throughout the office highly polished like it’s tenant. Two walls were lined with books from floor to ceiling. The furniture was the latest style and decorated in the latest fabrics.

In this office which spoke of success but not glory seeking, people from different walks of life were welcomed equally and listened to equally. It was in this office his journey began.

“Mr. Barkley, your ten o’clock is here.” stated his secretary, Mrs. Felding.

“Thank you, Mrs. Felding.” smiled Jarrod, closing the file he was working on. Standing, he put his suit coat on and walked around the desk.

A young man of Gene’s age entered the office and quietly thanked the older woman before she smiled and closed the door. Brown eyes glanced quickly around the office before landing on the man in front of the desk.

“Mr. Barkley, I’m Tad Jenkins. Eugene wired you about me.” hesitated the younger man, his voice shaking with nervousness, his fingers rubbing a circular pattern on his pant leg.

Holding out his hand, Jarrod smiled when the young man reached forward after a moment and grasped it. “Nice to meet you, Tad. Why don’t you have a seat?”

Walking around his desk and taking a chair Jarrod asked, “Do you attend Berkley also?”

“No, sir. Well, I did but had to quit to work after my pa died. I have two little sisters at home and my ma couldn’t afford the tuition.”

Jarrod sighed, “I’m sorry about your father. It must have been very hard for you to give up your education.”

“Nothing much could be done about it, sir.” shrugged Tad, “Family comes first.”

Smiling, Jarrod agreed, “Yes, they do. That’s a personal motto for my family also.”

“Gene’s a good friend and I’d like to thank you for seeing me, sir.” hesitated Tad biting his lip, unsure of how to start.

Leaning back in his chair, Jarrod suggested softly, “Take your time, I’m not going anywhere.”

Smiling nervously, Tad looked into the intense blue eyes, “Sir, if I tell you something does that mean you can’t tell nobody else.”

Nodding, Jarrod said, “If you retain me as your attorney everything we discuss is subject to attorney-client confidentiality.”

“Okay. I’d like to retain you. How much does an attorney such as yourself charge?” inquired Tad, his eyes frightful of the fee.

Leaning forward, Jarrod smiled, “Do you have a dollar?”

Surprised, Tad nodded and pulled a silver dollar out of his pocket. Placing it in the outstretched hand, he watched as Jarrod put the coin in his pocket.

“I’m retained.” said Jarrod holding out his hand. Nodding, Tad smiled and shook the hand sealing the deal.

“Thank you, Mr. Barkley.” replied Tad gratefully. “I’m sure you charge more than that.”

Waving off the remark, Jarrod smirked, “I’ll collect it from Eugene next time he’s home.”

Chuckling, Tad’s brown eyes lit up with amusement before they settled back into seriousness.

“Mr. Barkley, if I had a job that was maybe not quite legal and then saw another crime being committed while I was doing my job, can I be arrested if I report the other crime?”

“Yes, Tad, you could possibly be arrested.”

“I see. Just like I thought.” whispered Tad.

“Sometimes a district attorney will grant a person immunity from prosecution if they have knowledge of a greater crime. But in order to get immunity, the person would have to be able to prove the greater crime occurred and have knowledge of who committed it.” offered Jarrod.

Standing, Tad sighed loudly and paced the length of the office for several minutes, before he stopped, his eyes wide seeking the appraising blue eyes of the older man.

“I have knowledge of a greater crime, sir.”

“What crime is that, Tad?” inquired Jarrod curious at the fear which jumped into the young brown eyes.

“I saw who murdered John Fargas.” stated Tad bluntly.

Startled, Jarrod sat up straight in his chair and gestured for Tad to retake his seat.

“Tad, start from the beginning and tell me everything.”

Chapter 4

Nodding, Tad sat down and cleared his throat, gratefully accepting the glass of water Jarrod set in front of him to wet his parched vocal chords, tighten with nervousness and tension.

“After my pa died and I moved back home, I took a couple jobs to help out my ma. But even after working eighteen hours a day, the pay I got and my ma’s pay barely made ends meet. I couldn’t get nothing more than a stock boy or a dish washer. Good jobs are kinda scarce.”

“What did you Father do to make a living?” asked Jarrod.

“He worked down at the docks and loaded ships. It was dangerous work but he made good money. That’s how he was killed. I would’ve worked there but my ma was scared I’d wind up dead like him, so I promised her I’d find other work.”

Compassion and understanding looked back at the young man when he glanced up into the ocean eyes. “I don’t mind hard work, Mr. Barkley. I was raised doing lots of stuff to keep up our house when my pa was working. The problem is the money I was making was not enough.”

“So, then what happened?” prompted Jarrod with a small smile.

Taking a deep breath, Tad shook his head, “You know that saying ‘if it’s too good to be true’”

“Yes, I do.”

“Well, it’s true. One day when I was heading to my second job, I saw a guy I knew from high school. I hadn’t seen him in a couple years and we got to talking. I told him I had to go to my other job and he laughed saying I’d be an old man by the time I was twenty three if I kept up working two jobs for nothing.”

“What was this friend’s name?”

Shifting slightly in his seat, Tad said quietly, “Do I have to tell? He didn’t do anything wrong.”

Putting his pencil down, Jarrod replied, “The district attorney is going to want to know when he starts an investigation, Tad. His office will have to verify the validity of your claim.”

Thinking for several minutes, Tad nodded and pointed to the paper in front of the attorney, “Can you write he didn’t have anything to do with the killing?”

“I will make a note of it.” assured Jarrod picking up his pencil and writing. Pausing, he looked up into the brown eyes and said quietly, “His name?”

“Bert Haines. His dad’s the owner of the Grand Hotel.”

“So, did Mr. Haines suggest a different line of work?”

“Yeah. He said he was delivering packages and other stuff. He said his boss was looking for someone else to help out who was real familiar with the city. Bert said he’d introduce me after I got done with work that night and if I got it, I’d only have to work one job.”

“Did he tell you how much it paid?”

“Yep and I thought he was exaggerating. I couldn’t imagine making more money with just one job. I agreed to meet Bert after work and to talk to this man. I figured what would it hurt.”

“Talking isn’t against the law.” smiled Jarrod.

“Heck, knowing what I know now, I wish it had been against the law.” retorted Tad sighing deeply. “If it wasn’t for my ma and sisters at home, I’d have never went to that meeting.”

Stopping his writing, Jarrod nodded, “Sometimes even the best intentions cause problems, Tad. It’s human nature, I’m afraid.”

“Yeah, guess so, sir.” whispered the young man before continuing.

“Well, I met his boss. He hired me to deliver packages to places. I didn’t have to collect money or anything, just leave the packages at the address written on them. The only rule he had was the packages were never to be opened by me.”

“So, this man hired you and told you not to look in the packages.” summarized Jarrod receiving a nod of agreement. Looking up, he smiled when Tad responded with the name before he asked.

“Sam Ling.”

“Hmm, I’ve heard that name before or read it somewhere.” mumbled Jarrod, making a mental note to search his mind later. “Go on.”

“After I’d been working about five months for him, the night man who was wrapping the package didn’t tie it right and when he handed it to me, it came open and the stuff inside fell out. It was opium, Mr. Barkley all tied up in smaller bags.”

“How did you feel when you saw it was opium?” queried Jarrod curiously.

“I wasn’t picked out of the pumpkin patch yesterday, Mr. Barkley. I had kinda already figured I was delivering something illegal otherwise why would he have the rule to not open the packages. I was shocked though and couldn’t move, I didn’t know what to do. The guy was swearing up a storm and trying to refix the package when she came in the room.”

“She?”

Nodding, Tad swallowed the lump in his throat, “Mia Ling. Sam’s daughter. She’s the most beautiful woman, I’ve ever seen. I don’t know why, but every time she’d look at me I’d get the heebie jeebies.”

“Did she know you were there?”

“Sure enough. She said something in Chinese to the guy and then she looked at me. Said I’d best forget what I’d seen cause bad things happen to good people.”

“I nodded, took the package and delivered it. They’re bad people. I hear rumors all the time about the Ling’s. People are scared to death of them.”

“What happened when you saw the murder of John Fargas?” asked Jarrod. “You were making a delivery, correct?”

“Yes, Bert asked me to deliver a package to the back of the Goldrush Saloon cause he couldn’t make it. I made the delivery and came back to the Ling’s warehouse. I heard a scream and went in the back way. They was arguing bout something.”

“Who was arguing? Do you know what they were fighting about?”

“Fargas and Sam were arguing. Mia and this huge guy was there too. Anyway, Sam was screaming at Fargas and stabbed him with a knife. I don’t know what they were fighting about though.”

“Did they know you were there?”

“No, I was hid behind some boxes and was real quiet when I left. I went to a restaurant down the street and came back thirty minutes later.”

“Tad, why did you decide to come forward with this information?”

“Mr. Barkley, I know delivering opium is against the law. At first, I was scared to say anything but then it started eating away at me. I’m not a bad person and nobody deserves to be killed like that. When I was at Berkeley, Gene always listened so I took the next train down there. I only told him vaguely I may have seen a crime taking place. He said you’d know what was best to do.”

Standing, Jarrod looked out the window briefly and walked back to sit on the corner of his desk. “Tad, you did the right thing. Sometimes doing the right thing is the hardest thing in the world.”

“I know, sir. That’s what my ma says too.” admitted Tad quietly. “I’m real scared, Mr. Barkley. If the Lings find out I saw what they did, they’ll kill me and my family. It wouldn’t bother them one bit.”

“First thing I will do is see the district attorney. When I speak with him, I won’t mention any names. I’ll just tell him the story leaving out some of the details. It would help if we knew how Fargas and Ling were connected.”

Shrugging, Tad sighed, “Sorry, Mr. Barkley. I don’t know but with Fargas being a councilman, it probably had something to do with his position.”

“Just what I was thinking.” replied Jarrod. “Have you been making deliveries since you saw the murder? Do you think the Lings have any reason to be suspicious?”

“I’ve been working every day except Monday when I went to Berkeley. I told Bert I had to go see an old college friend who came back from abroad. I don’t think they suspect anything.”

“Good. Give me your address, Tad. I’ll come by later tonight and let you know how my meeting goes with the district attorney.” stated Jarrod handing the young man a paper and pencil. “Tad, your mother will have to be told what’s going on.”

Guilt caused tears to spring into the brown eyes before the young man wiped them away. “I know, sir. My ma’s a hard working, decent woman. When she finds out what I’ve been doing, it’s gonna kill her.”

Squeezing the young man’s shoulder, Jarrod sighed, “If she’s anything like my mother, she’ll be disappointed but proud you made the hard choice to do the right thing.”

Chapter 5

“Jarrod, there’s nothing I can do.”

If the district attorney, James Fetterson, reached over and slapped him off his chair, Jarrod knew he wouldn’t have been as shocked as the flat out denial which rang out to his ears.

“What do you mean Jim? I’m telling you there’s an eye witness!” declared Jarrod in disbelief. “You have to reinitiate an investigation! At least check out what is being claimed!”

Shaking his head, Jim Fetterson sat back in his chair and regarded the angry man across from him. Jarrod Barkley was one of the finest attorneys in the state, a colleague with the utmost integrity who was honest and above reproach. An intriguing opponent in the courtroom, his mind a veritable spider web of knowledge of all points of law, his thirst for justice would never be quenched.

“The case is closed Jarrod. I have an official filed report which states John Fargas died of a knife wound received in an attempted mugging. It was fully investigated and no discrepancies were found to suggest otherwise.”

Jarrod was certain flames shot out of his eyes and hit the other man across the desk. He could feel the temperature in the room rise from the fire within him and he stood.

Leaning across the desk, he would not have been surprised he sounded like Nick when he growled in anger, “I’ve never known you to be a man who would sit on his laurels and let an injustice pass by. The case can be reopened, so do it!”

“No.” stated Fetterson quietly, surprised he wasn’t seeing steam come out of the lawyer’s ears from the redness flaring in his face. “I can’t do that Jarrod.”

“Fine!” snapped Jarrod, picking up his hat and turning away. “I will see what I can find out myself to cause you to reopen the case!”

“JARROD!” shouted Jim halting the furious man with his hand on the knob of his closed door.

“DAMMIT, BARKLEY! CAN’T YOU EVER JUST ACCEPT WHAT I SAY?”

“I do when I know you’re right.” snapped Jarrod after he turned back to his colleague. “THIS TIME YOU’RE NOT!”

“It’s that damnable Barkley temper and stubbornness! Someday it’s gonna get you killed!” mumbled Jim Fetterson pouring drinks and handing one to his peer before sitting on his desk, motioning for Jarrod to take a seat.

Taking the peace offering, Jarrod sat in the chair and took a sip of the whiskey, his eyes never leaving the others. He could see the district attorney was hesitating and his instincts went into overdrive.

“You already know it was something other than a botched mugged, don’t you?” asked Jarrod, his blue eyes prickling with curiosity.

Inhaling a deep breath of the office air, Jim shook his head in agreement. Setting his glass on the desk, his hands clenched the wood overhang of the desk.

“I can’t go into it with you but, yes, we already know Fargas wasn’t killed in a mugging. The report was filed that way to create more time for us.” said Jim “Jarrod, I’ll have to see if we will want to use your witness. If we do, we will grant your client immunity.”

“See with whom?”

“I can’t tell you, Jarrod.” stated Jim firmly.

Studying the other man, understanding spread across the lawyer’s face and he sighed, “Why is the government involved?”

Surprised at the question, the truth reflected in the district attorney’s eyes before he replied nonchalantly, “Who said anything about the government?”

“Jim, I hope you don’t play poker. Your eyes tell me all I need to know.” smirked Jarrod smugly. “Do you want to tell me why the government’s involved or should I find out myself?”

Clenching his jaw, the district attorney jumped down from his seat on the desk and walked to a picture. Opening the safe behind the picture, he pulled out a file and brought it back to the desk.

Slamming it down before the blue eyed defender of justice, he snapped angrily, “It’s a damn good thing I like you or else I’d let you walk out of here and make you find out the answers on your own! Then you’d wind up just like Fargas!”

Tilting his head slightly, Jarrod conceded his thanks to the other man without saying a word. Sitting on the edge of his seat, he waited til Fetterson sat back in his chair and opened the large file.

“All of this is about the Lings?”

“Yeah, they’re not what we call your average citizens of San Francisco.” replied Jim sarcastically. “The scum of the sewers is even too good a title for these people.”

“Well, I know they’re drug runners and murderers. What else?” suggested Jarrod glancing over some of the pages of the file.

“Extortion, blackmail, slavery, kidnapping, number games. You name it, they more than likely have a hand in it. They’re a very enterprising family and very dangerous. These people will slit your throat quick as you can blink. They’ll do at their own dinner table and finish their meal while you bleed to death.” insisted Jim.

“How long have they been under investigation?”

“Since the murder of Judge Randall two and a half years ago. His murder made it a federal case since he was a federal judge.” stated Jim.

“The papers said Judge Randall died of a drug overdose.”

“With a little help from the Lings, he did. Randall’s death started the ball rolling. The judge was a man they couldn’t bribe or scare. The feds have someone on the inside and its taken them two years for their agent to build up his credibility and slowly bring in evidence. There’s more than hauling Sam Ling in for Fargas’ murder riding on this investigation, Jarrod.”

Closing the file, Jarrod’s face was thoughtful before he asked, “So, I take it Sam Ling has some important people in his pocket, huh?”

Nodding his answer, Jim Fetterson stared into the ocean eyes and stated firmly, “I don’t want you investigating or even asking one question. Promise me, Jarrod!”

“Jim, I won’t investigate since you’ve given me the reason as to why I can’t.” admitted Jarrod. “What about my client? He’s very worried the Lings will find out about him and take after his family.”

“And they’d kill them all, Jarrod if they even got a hint something wasn’t right with your client. I’m sure the Feds will want to question him and use his testimony when the time comes. I think they’re close to issuing arrest warrants but until then, well, I’d suggest he and his family get out of town until your client’s testimony is needed.” sighed Jim putting the file back in its haven.

“Just watch yourself, Jarrod. I don’t wanna hear they found your body floating in the bay.”

“I’ll be careful. Thanks, Jim.” smiled Jarrod, holding out his hand. “You had me going there for a while when you wouldn’t reopen the investigation.”

The district attorney took the extended hand and winked, “And people think Nick has the worst temper in the Barkley family.”

Chapter 6

Stopping his horse in front of the small house, Jarrod climbed down and tied the reins to a post of the fence. Opening the gate, he walked up the short pathway and climbed the two steps, knocking firmly on the door.

Smiling, Tad held out his hand and greeted the older man, “Evening, Mr. Barkley. Come in.”

Taking off his hat, Jarrod returned the greeting and entered the house. A small living room was the entrance point of the house, immaculate would not have been the word to describe the condition of the room. It was clean beyond spotless and fairly glowed.

Tad took the attorney’s hat and gestured for him to sit in a chair which was across a small table from the settee. “I’ll be right back with my mother, Mr. Barkley. I told her everything this afternoon while my sisters were in school.”

“I’m glad you did, Tad. I can imagine how difficult it was for you.” replied Jarrod placing a strong hand on the young man’s shoulder. “It’s not always easy for people to face up to doing the right thing.”

Blushing, Tad shrugged, “Well, if I hadn’t been so money hungry, none of this would’ve happened.”

“Tad, you were not money hungry.” scolded a warm voice as a woman entered the room. “Mr. Barkley, I’m Faith Jenkins.”

“Pleasure to meet you, Mrs. Jenkins.” smiled Jarrod, bowing slightly over the hand she extended.

Observing mother and son, Jarrod’s eyes were curious at the age difference between the two. She could not have been more than thirty or thirty two years old, too young to be the mother of a twenty year old.

“You were only trying to follow in your father’s footsteps and take care of your family, Tad.” assured Faith. “He would have been proud of you for making such an effort.”

“Ma, there’s no excuse for it.” stated Tad shamefully. “I’m sorry for all the trouble.”

Patting his arm, Faith shook her head, “Tad, would you bring the coffee in?”

“Sure.” nodded the young man heading through the living room to an inner door.

“Please have a seat, Mr. Barkley.” instructed the young woman sitting on the settee.

“Mrs. Jenkins, how old are Tad’s sisters?” queried Jarrod.

“Eight and five. No, I am not Tad’s birth mother but that doesn’t mean I love him any less.” assured Faith firmly.

“I suspected as much from the age difference between you and your son. He was very upset with having to let you know what he’d gotten himself into.” said Jarrod quietly.

“Tad’s a fine boy or rather a fine young man. I’m proud to be his mother. I met his father when I was seventeen and we were married two weeks later. Tad was only eight when we married.” explained Faith. “His father’s untimely death unfortunately has placed us in a position of needing Tad’s income. It’s sad because he would be a wonderful doctor.”

“He’s young and could still return to college someday. There is no age limit on learning.” smiled Jarrod watching the young man of their conversation carry in a tray and set it on the table.

Pouring coffee for all three, Faith informed the attorney her two younger children were spending the night at a friend’s house so they could speak freely. Taking the center stage, Tad and his mother listened carefully to Jarrod’s meeting with the district attorney.

“I think it may be best to follow his suggestion of leaving town.” stated Jarrod. “I wouldn’t want anything to happen to you or your family. When the time comes, the district attorney will notify me and I will send for you, Tad.”

“Mr. Barkley, this is our home. We have no where else to go.” frowned Faith. “I’d have to give up my job and everything Jack and I worked towards for the children. Maybe these people won’t find out what Tad saw.”

Jarrod smiled sadly, “I understand what this would require of you and your family, Mrs. Jenkins. It is not my decision to make, however, I’d like to help in any way I can.”

Nodding at his words, Faith thought for several minutes and turned to the down trodden young man sitting on her left. The guilt and shame was laying around him like a blanket.

“Tad?”

Tad lifted his head and looked in his mother’s eyes, “Yes, ma?”

“How bad are these people? Do you think they’d actually be capable of hurting your sisters?” inquired Faith, her voice low, blue eyes intently searching the brown ones.

Swallowing the lump in his throat, Tad felt his stomach twisting at the terror the Lings created in his mind. “I’m sorry, ma for all of this. It won’t matter to them Hope and Charity are little girls. They won’t care and I think they’d kill us all.”

Closing her eyes briefly, Faith patted his hand before squeezing it tightly and sighing, “Thank you for being honest, Tad. I certainly will not stay where any of my children are in danger. But I’m not sure where we can go.”

“I’d offer to take you and the children to my family’s ranch in Stockton, however, if the Lings discover Tad’s my client, they would think that is one of the first places he could be.” pondered Jarrod out loud.

“I don’t have any relatives and my friends are all here in San Francisco.” replied Faith. “When would we have to go?”

“I went to work after our appointment and nothing seemed funny.” informed Tad with a hopeful look in his brown eyes. “Maybe we’re getting all worked up for nothing.”

“We could be, Tad.” admitted Jarrod with a slight nod, “But until the Lings have been arrested, do you want to take the chance?”

Looking into the blue concerned eyes, Tad smiled and shook his head, “Not on their lives, I don’t and I won’t.”

“My brother is a former marshal. He knows people who are not connected to the Barkley name. I’ll send a wire tonight and ask him to come to San Francisco. He may be able to help us out.” offered Jarrod.

Faith nodded at the offer, “Thank you, Mr. Barkley. I believe this is more than your job as Tad’s attorney requires and we appreciate it.”

Waving off the thanks, Jarrod stood and held out his hand, “If Tad’s testimony can alleviate our city of these types of people, society on a whole benefits, Mrs. Jenkins. I do suggest each and everyone of you conduct yourself in a normal manner. I’d only pack what is necessary and have it ready in case we need to leave at a moment’s notice.”

Agreeing, they saw Jarrod to his surrey and bade him a good evening. Heading directly to the telegraph office, Jarrod sent a wire and drove back to his residence.

Later that evening, sitting in a chair and reading his newspaper, a smile crossed his face from the thought of the woman whose heart matched his mothers and was full of unconditional love.

Early the next afternoon, Jarrod greeted his younger brother with a firm hug on the depot of the train station. “Heath, thank you for coming on such short notice.”

Winking, the blonde grinned, “Well, Jarrod next time you’re home, Nick’s gonna give ya’ an earful.”

“He wasn’t too happy with my wire, huh?” winced Jarrod.

“Boy howdy, I’d say not too happy was an understatement!” drawled Heath clapping his older brother on the back before they walked to the surrey. Putting his bag on the floor, he climbed upon the seat.

“I had to listen to Nick all night growling and mumbling in my ear. For a while I thought I’d have to gag him to get some peace and quiet. I better not be here in this city just to pick out some draperies.” stated Heath with a lop-sided grin.

“For pete’s sake is that what Nick said I wired you for?” groaned Jarrod, red creeping up his neck. “I needed another opinion and that wasn’t the only reason he was in San Francisco either. I don’t think he’ll ever let me live that down.”

Shaking his head, Heath chuckled and leaned back, “He told me last night about it. He said he’s afraid I might wanna decorate the study instead of working the ranch when I get home.”

Joining the blonde in laughter, Jarrod stopped the surrey in front of his building and lead the way to his office. Heath followed his brother and greeted the older woman sitting outside the door to the attorney’s office.

Entering, Jarrod took his brother’s bag and set it down by the sofa. Walking over to the small bar, he filled two glasses and handed one to Heath who was busy studying the interior of the office.

Spying the draperies on the windows, he cocked an eyebrow at his brother, causing Jarrod to sputter his whiskey from the question in the sapphire eyes.

“No, those are not the draperies.” smirked Jarrod sitting on the sofa and saluting his brother with his glass.

“This is a very nice office, Jarrod. Not too showy and very comfortable.” smiled Heath as he sat in a chair and put his hat on his knee. “So, why’d you need to drag this poor country boy to the city, big brother?”

“I need your help to hide a family far enough away to keep them safe but close enough to hop on a train and return at a moment’s notice. A place not connected to the Barkley name, brother Heath.” informed Jarrod quietly.

Heath put his glass and hat on a nearby table and leaned forward, his elbows on his knees, the amusement in his eyes replaced with cold seriousness. “Jarrod, you best start from the beginning. Does this have to do with the wire about Gene’s friend?”

Nodding, Jarrod explained the reason for the wire and all the events which happened since his meeting with the young Tad Jenkins.

Heath stood up and paced around the office. Stopping, he sat on the corner of the desk, his voice quiet, “Jarrod, have you ever heard of a Chinese tong?”

Chapter 7

“Chinese tong?” repeated Jarrod. “I’ve heard the term before, but can’t place it.”

“There are lots of people of Chinese descent in San Francisco. Most of them are hard working and decent people. Then there are Chinese people who belong to a tong and use violence to control those around them. They charge protection services to the honest Chinese citizens in the areas they claim as their territory. If the shopkeeper doesn’t pay the required fees, he or his family receives a visit from the enforcers in the tong.” explained Heath, his manner Jarrod realized had unconsciously switched to marshal mode, his tone of voice held a ring of authority and his emotions shut off.

“Making a profit any way they can is the only thought on their minds. They don’t care how many are hurt in the process. The Ling Tong is one of the worst, but you also have the Chai and Su-Tu tongs. They’re not as large as the Lings though.”

“Heath, I thought this was your first visit to San Francisco?” puzzled Jarrod. “How do you know so much about the tongs?”

The blonde sighed and smiled slightly, “Everyone just assumed I hadn’t been to San Francisco before. Sometimes when you’re a marshal, you’ll be asked to handle special assignments because you have certain skills or you have a connection with someone.”

“You were undercover with the tongs?” exclaimed Jarrod.

Laughing, Heath grinned, “Boy howdy, that’d be kind of hard considering I have blonde hair and blue eyes, Jarrod. I don’t think I would’ve blended too well in the environment.”

Blushing, Jarrod agreed, “You’re right. How do you know so much?”

“I saved the life of the son of the leader of the Chai tong. I happened to be in the right place at the right time when he was traveling to San Francisco on the train from Ely. I was on my way to pick up a prisoner for transportation.”

Moving from his spot on the desk to stare out the window, Heath watched the population bustling in front of his eyes before he moved back to sit in the chair.

“Jarrod, the tongs are very close knit. No outsiders allowed. If you’re one of them, then betray the tong, you’ll have a very slow and painful death. The tongs will fight with other tongs over control of a business or territory. Opium is one of their biggest money makers and they’ll kill each other off for more customers.”

Digesting the information, Jarrod nodded, “So the son of the leader of the Chai tong was on the train you were on. Someone tried to kill him and you intervened?”

“Yeah, that pretty well sums it up. He was a little ticked off after I saved his life cause he owed a marshal a debt of gratitude, one which was up to me as to how he paid off. Later, I collected on the debt for one of my assignments.” stated Heath quietly, leaning forward to stare intently into the lighter blue eyes.

“Lu Chai’s payment was to reveal what he knew about the workings of the other tongs in the city. Speaking of the other tongs was the only way he wouldn’t betray his own family tong and could keep his honor intact. Seeing he was left with no other option, he told me what I needed to know. I took the information and wrote up a report for my superiors. What they did with it I have no idea.”

“When was this?” inquired Jarrod curiously.

“A couple months before I brought Croker to Stockton.” drawled Heath surprised at how much time had flown by since he first arrived in the town of his father’s family.

“I’m betting your superiors used your information to get their agent into the Ling tong.” surmised Jarrod thoughtfully.

Shrugging, Heath nodded, “Could be, Pappy. He must be very good to have survived over two years with that bunch of cutthroats.”

A frown spread across the former marshal’s face and he met the blue eyes, “Jarrod, if the government is close to handing out arrest warrants, we’d best move that family right away. This friend of Gene’s is an outsider and if they get a whiff of something coming down the pike, he’ll be one of the first killed even if they don’t suspect him of anything. They’ll clean house of all considered outsiders to keep damage to a minimum. Their thinking will be the outsiders are the more likely ones to give them up.”

“I asked Mrs. Jenkins to be ready to move at a moment’s notice but where can we take them?” asked Jarrod.

Putting on his hat and standing, Heath replied, “I’ve always been fond of the mission at San Reyes myself. It’s a nice quiet place overlooking the ocean. Very peaceful and calming. I know the padre there and we’ll make sure they stay safe.”

“I wasn’t expecting you to guard them, Heath.”

“I’ll just stick close to them to make sure everything’s okay. I know you said Tad didn’t tell Gene anything, but it’d be best if we pulled him out of Berkeley. Just in case they know who Tad went to visit.”

“I’ll wire him today.” replied Jarrod.

“No wires, Jarrod. Nothing on paper for other eyes to see. We’ll pick him up on the way and use family as an excuse to take him out of school.” informed Heath firmly.

“Alright, Heath. I’ll follow your lead since you have more experience with this type of work.”

Jarrod grabbed his hat and stopped his little brother with a hand on his arm, “I can’t thank you enough for helping the Jenkins family, Heath.”

Heath growled, “Don’t get yourself killed dealing with the tongs and we’ll call it even, big brother. Just stay the hell away from them.”

Smiling, Jarrod patted the strong back, “It’s a deal, brother Heath.”

Chapter 8

If looking into a crystal ball or reading tea leaves left in the bottom of a cup were two exact means of seeing the future, several different people would have spent their time indulging in the soothsayer activity.

Unfortunately, there is no way to see into the future. There is no way to predict the unpredictable. There is no way to avert disaster once the small ball of snow is set on its course, rolling downward gaining momentum and speed, increasing its volume until it consumes everything or everyone in its path.

If Sam Ling had foreseen a regiment of law enforcement agents scouring his places of businesses and rounding up his people, he’d have taken his amassed fortune and fled the city for parts unknown. As it was he’d been arrested and incarcerated along with most of the members of his tong, wondering why his well placed bribes hadn’t worked to prevent this event.

If Mia Ling had foreseen her father’s arrest, she’d have not chosen that particular day to spend with friends. She’d have remained with her body guard by her father’s side and whisked the old man away from the long arm of the law.

As it was she was free with her body guard and two of the men, hiding in seclusion within a safe place in the city limits. Evil’s twin sister hadn’t gone far from her stomping grounds and her ear was tuned to the rumblings in the community, her desire for those who’d betrayed them darkening her already black eyes.

Whispers reached her and the command was given. Those not intimate with the Ling family, outsiders of Chinese and American blood were dealt with swiftly and cruelly. Only two remained, both delivery boys. Neither could be located. Money was offered for information of the whereabouts of the two and a name was whispered in her ear.

If the former marshal known two weeks ago what he knew today, he’d have never let the eldest son of the Barkley family return to San Francisco from the mission at San Reyes. The departure from the large city under the cover of darkness and the journey to Berkeley then to San Reyes proceeded without a glitch. The padre warmly greeted the returning blonde and agreed to sanctuary without a second of thought.

If the former marshal known two weeks ago what he knew today, he’d have kept the attorney by his side, within his field of vision, either with words or hog tying. Either method would have been acceptable to the blonde, either method would have taken away the loss and guilt rising up within him as each tormented hour crept by one second following excruciatingly slowly by another second.

The torture starting when the former marshal had not heard from the attorney at the prearranged time and he hopped a train back to San Francisco leaving the Jenkins family and Gene in the safety of the mission.

Arriving at the home of his brother, he was informed of the attorney’s apparent unexpected departure from his home. Entering the modest home with the officer in charge of the scene, Heath scoured the living room which indicated a struggle had taken place from the overturned furniture and spots of blood on the carpet.

Days later having gone over everything with the detective in charge and the district attorney for clues in the whereabouts of the missing man, Heath had found himself wiring Nick to let him know of their missing brother.

The air was warm and humid while he waited for the morning train to arrive, his body was crying out for sleep, he was running on nearly ninety six hours of grit and determination fed by the driving need to find his missing brother.

The sound of the arriving train was announced by the piercing high pitched whistle screaming across the morning air. Nick Barkley jumped down from the steps of the train, his long legs eating up the space as he strode purposely towards his little brother standing on the platform.

“What the hell do you mean Jarrod’s missing?” growled Nick angrily, his hazel eyes fired up with concern and fury of wrong doing against their brother.

“Com’n Nick. I’ll explain along the way to the police station.” stated Heath turning, his progress stopped by the large hand on his arm.

“Boy, you don’t look like you’ll be on your feet much longer. When’s the last time you slept?” gruffed Nick, the worry in the blonde’s face and the circles under his eyes reviving the mother hen in him.

Gently taking the hand from his arm, Heath shook his head, “No time for that, Nick. After we get Jarrod back, I’ll rest then. I never should’ve let him come back.”

Nick snorted, “Heath, whatever it is I’m sure you wouldn’t have been able to stop our big brother.”

“No, you’re wrong! I knew what these people were capable of and now he’s gone.” snapped Heath walking to the surrey and climbing in.

Nick shook his head and climbed up beside the agitated blonde who started the surrey with a flick of the reins. The story the blonde weaved churned the acid in his stomach, welling it upwards into his throat, only his swallowing kept him from losing his breakfast at the concern for his brother’s safety in the clutches of the group of people Heath described.

“Heath, why do they need Jarrod?” choked out Nick, fighting to keep the anxiety in his soul out of his voice, not succeeding and a small tremor shook the words.

Stopping the surrey in front of the police station, Heath wiped his hands over his face. “The undercover man was killed after he delivered his evidence to the district attorney. Gene’s friend is the only eyewitness to a crime against the leader, Sam Ling. They need to know where Tad Jenkins is hiding, after they kill the boy and silence his testimony, the old man will have to be released from jail. No witness, no crime.”

“Where’s this Jenkins kid, now?”

Heath growled, “I’m not telling ya’, Nick. The less you know, the safer you’ll be. One missing brother is enough.”

A large hand grabbed the shoulder of the former marshal when he moved to climb out of the surrey and pulled him roughly back onto the seat, the hazel eyes were loaded with fury, "HE’S MY BROTHER, I HAVE A RIGHT TO KNOW EVERYTHING!”

Biting back the animalistic response the hand and anger triggered, Heath stared into the hazel eyes, his jaw clenched in silence, his blue eyes narrowed in intensity. Nick’s eyes never wavered from his little brother’s and he saw past the fury, his breath taken away from the torturous look of guilt hidden behind the blue orbs.

Releasing his hold of the smaller man’s shoulder, Nick’s hand cupped the back of the neck, the hazel eyes softened with tenderness and the voice was gentle and firm, “This is not your fault, Heath. We’ll find Jarrod.”

Sighing deeply, Heath pulled away and shook his head, his whisper barely heard in the daily noises of the busy street.

“Will we find him in time, Nick?”

Chapter 9

Dispelling the despair rising at his brother’s anguished question, Nick jumped down and followed into the three story building which housed part of San Francisco’s police force.

Climbing the stairs he spoke the thought which plagued him on the train ride, “Heath, should we wire Mother in Denver?”

Waiting until they topped the third flight of stairs, Heath turned and frowned, “I say we wait til we know something solid about Jarrod.”

“She’ll be furious we kept this from her.” muttered Nick, a pair of flaming gray eyes flashed before him.

“Yeah, there’s nothing scarier in this world than a mother’s wrath.” admitted Heath leading the way through the room of desks. “No sense in Mother and Audra worrying themselves all the way over in Denver though. Let’s wait at least another day or two.”

Lieutenant Cory Paulson looked up from his paperwork at the sound of approaching footsteps and stood up. “Morning, Heath.”

“Lieutenant Cory Paulson, this is my brother, Nick Barkley.” introduced Heath watching the shaking of hands between the two men.

“Have you found out anything, Cory?” asked Heath sitting in a chair and gesturing Nick to take the other.

“No, not yet. As you are aware, the Chinese community is very tight-lipped. We haven’t been able to find out anything yet.” sighed the officer, his frustration clear for both men to see.

“You mean no one’s willing to help? Nobody?” exclaimed Nick in disbelief.

“Please try to understand, Mr. Barkley. The Chinese are very distrustful of anyone not like them, of people outside their community. They haven’t received the nicest welcome over the years from the citizens of our state and country.” explained Cory.

“This is crazy!” snapped Nick. “Jarrod hasn’t done anything to them. Sounds to me like they have more to fear from their own and not us!”

Tapping his gloves against his jeans, Nick suddenly shot up from the chair causing the officer to startle slightly from the bundled burst of energy needing to be released in the form of pacing.

Ignoring the sudden movement of his brother, Heath leaned forward in his chair, “Have you found out if the Lings own any other property in the city or on the outskirts?”

“We’re still searching the deeds at the town hall. Nothing yet has been found that we didn’t already know. I have two officers searching along with the entire staff of the department. It will take time to go through all the documents and compare the title holder names to the list we provided.”

“What about the places Tad Jenkins made deliveries to?” suggested Heath again, his mind trying to search out each clue which would lead them to a possible location of their missing sibling.

“All have been searched to no avail. Most are just drop off points for the distributors to pick up the opium.” explained the lieutenant calmly, the repeated questions and suggestions not bothering the patient man.

Nick stopped his pacing and held onto the back of the chair to listen to the conversation between the two men. His mind tried to disseminate all the questions and information being bantered back and forth.

“What if we offer a reward for information? We could put up some posters and wait til someone who needs the money comes forward.” suggested Nick. “Maybe then someone would talk to us about Jarrod.”

The hazel eyes turned to anger at the nervous chuckle he received to his suggestion, “DAMMIT, WHAT SO FUNNY ABOUT THAT?”

Holding his head in his hands, Heath bit back the sob which threatened to escape. Nick’s anger faded when he realized his brother’s shoulders were shaking with pent-up emotion. Kneeling beside the chair, the officer watched the transformation of the dark haired man from furious to concerned in a matter of seconds.

“Heath?” whispered Nick reaching hesitantly to place a hand on the quivering back.

Blue eyes filled with tears looked up at the feel of the brother’s touch and his tormented words ripped into Nick.

“A reward. It’s so simple and could be the answer we’ve been searching for. I’ve wasted days, Nick. Days!”

Cory stepped away from the desk to give the brothers a moment of privacy and stopped any others from approaching the area.

“Heath, you didn’t waste days. Look at you! You’re about ready to drop from exhaustion! You’ve been doing everything you could think of to find Jarrod.” assured Nick firmly.

Shaking his head in denial, Heath wiped a hand over his eyes, “This is why doctors don’t treat family members. I might’ve killed our brother, Nick.”

Pushing himself out of the chair, Heath wavered slightly and Nick grabbed his arm to steady him.

“Listen to me, Mr. Cantankerous! We’re going to the hotel and you’re gonna sleep. Lieutenant, can you have some posters printed up and offer a reward of ten thousand dollars?” asked Nick ignoring his brother’s angry denial of sleep.

“Sure, Mr. Barkley. I can have them done within two hours and have my men start posting them around town.” smiled the lieutenant.

“The reward would be contingent upon the return of our brother.” replied Nick receiving a nod of agreement from the police officer. “We’ll be at…which hotel, Heath?”

“The plaza.” whispered Heath wondering how he could have overlooked the obvious solution of offering money to encourage loose lips in the tight-lipped community.

Putting a hand on his brother’s shoulder, Nick directed the blonde to the stairs and stated firmly as he nodded to the officer, “We’ll be at the plaza.”

Nick glanced sideways at Heath, the quietness of the blonde disturbing him while he drove to the hotel and pulled up in front of the hotel. Heath’s legs felt like a marionette’s wooden legs when he climbed down from the surrey and lead the way to their room, barely acknowledging the greetings thrown his way or his brother by his side.

Pulling out the key, Heath opened the door after several tries and pushed the plank of wood to allow entry. Walking to the window, he pulled open the curtains and stared down into the street below.

Nick sighed and closed the door behind him, throwing his hat on the table besides his brother’s, he walked to the center of the room and waited with his hands on his hips.

“Heath, we’re here so you can sleep.” stated Nick quietly, not surprised at the reaction his words received.

“I can’t sleep Nick. Not til we find him.” replied Heath firmly.

“You’re not doing anyone any good by not getting some rest. You need sleep to focus on what we have to do. To find Jarrod.”

“I know what I have to do, Nick!” snapped Heath. “I know what’s at stake! You don’t have to remind me!”

“All I’m saying is you’re too exhausted to think straight.” retorted Nick, his words turning the blonde away from his place at the window.

“What are you implying, Nick?” growled Heath, hands clenched at his sides.

Confused, Nick said, “I’m not implying anything.”

“Yes, you are!” snapped Heath.

Nick’s puzzlement reflected in his hazel eyes and he stepped closer to the agitated man. “What exactly do you think I’m implying?”

“If I thought of the reward sooner, Jarrod would be here now with us! THAT’S WHAT YOU MEAN, ISN’T IT?” demanded Heath, his voice rising in anger and accusation.

“THAT’S NOT WHAT I SAID OR MEANT!” shouted Nick.

“YOU DON’T HAVE TO SAY IT! IT’S IN YOUR EYES!” shouted Heath brushing by his stunned brother.

“WHERE DO YOU THINK YOU’RE GOING?”

“TO FIND JARROD!” yelled Heath grabbing his hat from the table.

Nick grabbed hold of the blonde and spun him around, his right fist connecting with the unprotected jaw. Heath’s eyes widened slightly with surprise before the large fist propelled him backwards into the wall, his eyes closed and he slid towards the floor.

Catching Heath in his arms, Nick’s eyes welled with tears and cradling the unconscious man in his arms, whispered in his ear.

“Sorry, little brother. You’ll get yourself killed if you don’t get some sleep. I’m not taking a chance on losing you, too.”

Picking up the limp body, Nick laid him on the bed and pulled off the tan boots. Closing the curtains to darken the large room, he pulled a blanket up and covered the blonde. His hand brushed through the blonde hair before he sat in the bedside chair, keeping his eyes on his little brother and his thoughts on his older brother.

“Hold on, Jarrod! We’re coming, Pappy!”

Chapter 10

A loud knocking at the door woke Nick from where he’d fallen asleep in the chair. Glancing over, he swore loudly at the empty bed and hurried to the door. A uniformed police officer stood on the other side.

“Mr. Barkley, the Lieutenant would like to see you and your brother at the station.”

“Okay, I’ll just need a minute.” stated Nick before closing the door. Walking over to get his gunbelt, he jumped when the door to the water closet opened and a refreshed blonde emerged.

Relieved at the sight of the man, Nick braced himself for the retaliation for his actions toward his brother. Heath walked over and stood in front of his anxious brother. Reaching forward he pulled his surprised brother into a hug and whispered, “Thanks, big brother.”

Returning the embrace, Nick pulled back and grinned, “Well, at least you look halfway alive now.”

Snorting, Heath sat on the bed and pulled on his boots. The sleep prompted by the right hook left him refreshed and reenergized, albeit with a sore jaw. “Consider that your one and only time of besting me, Nicholas Barkley.”

“Don’t call me Nicholas!” growled Nick tousling the blonde’s hair playfully and receiving a slap on his hand. “There’s an officer at the door. He says we’re needed at the station.”

Hope replaced the uncertainty in the blue eyes while Heath buckled his belt and grabbed his hat. Walking out of the hotel, he was stunned to find night had fallen while his body had given in to the much needed rest.

Nick smiled to himself at the return of the spring in his brother’s step and the resurrection of hope in both of them. Fifteen minutes later, the brothers listened carefully to the Lieutenant disclose the new information.

“I think this could be where your brother is being held. There’s an outer building, more like a shed with no windows. One of my men has seen Mia Ling entering the building with her body guard.”

“What are we waiting for?” gruffed Nick impatiently.

“An arrest warrant, Mr. Barkley.” stated Cory. “We can’t enter without one.”

“A WARRANT!” shouted Nick. “I DON’T CARE ABOUT THAT, LET’S GET JARROD!”

Heath put a hand on the angry man’s chest and shook his head, “Nick, if they go in there without one, any case against those people will be thrown out of court!”

“I DON’T CARE, HEATH.”

“Not right now, you don’t Nick! If Jarrod’s there, you’ll care later on when they get away with kidnapping just cause we didn’t have the proper documentation.” stated Heath quietly, his words working through the anger and frustration.

“But, Jarrod’s..” whispered Nick, in anguish.

“Jarrod’s gonna be with us soon, Nick. He wouldn’t want us to save him only to have the case thrown out of court on a technicality.” informed Heath firmly, placing his hands on the broad shoulders.

“These people must pay for what they’ve done to our brother and others around them. To jeopardize the punishment they deserve would mean they’d be able to do it somewhere else, Nick. Jarrod wouldn’t want or like that one bit. We have to do it legal, Nick.”

Reluctantly nodding in agreement, Nick ran his hand through his hair and glanced at the officer, “How long do we have to wait for this damn warrant?”

Cory saw a paper being waved as someone entered the room and he smiled, “Here it is now, gentleman.”

Reading the paper handed to him, he smiled, “Now we can go.”

The moon was full as the group of men made their way to the destination. Stopping at the outskirts of the large estate, the group split up and headed in different directions. Lieutenant Paulson pointed out the smaller building to the brothers and the three made their way towards it.

Relying on his men to take care of anyone at the main house, the three carefully picked their way in the moonlight to the dark building. A sound of a closing door and a lantern signaled the arrival of two men from the main house. Three sets of eyes stared at the huge man leading the way. Stopping at the small building, the giant unlocked the door and they entered with the lantern.

Spying the inviting entry point, the three rushed forward, their running feet muffled by the thick grass under their boots and burst through the opening. The men inside turned at the sounds of the intruders, the sight of their brother chained to a wall infuriated the former marshal and his brother.

“GET JARROD, NICK!” shouted Heath lunging forward at the man turning suddenly towards their helpless brother.

Chapter 11

Heath lunged at the giant stopping his progress towards Jarrod while the lieutenant set his sights on the other man, the surprise attack giving them a slight advantage. The lieutenant grabbed his man and their struggle carried the two men through the open door. Heath’s jump propelled the largest of the two criminals to the ground of the shack.

Nick knelt down in front of the chained man, his face draining of all color at the sight of his brother. Cupping the bloody cheek in his hand, he lifted his head and saw Jarrod’s eyes were closed. Looking at the metal holding his arms out to the side, he cursed loudly at the locks holding the bracelets together.

“HEATH, I NEED THE KEYS!” shouted Nick, his voice booming loudly in the small shack. Looking over, his eyes widened at the struggle going on between his little brother and the giant.

Jumping to his feet first, Heath’s fist met the face of the large man with two solid hits, the sound of flesh on flesh echoed through the room. The man towered over him by several inches and the blonde felt the anticipation of the fight rise up within him, his anger replaced by the reality of the daunting task before him.

‘The bigger they are the harder they fall. Yeah, right, it’s harder they hit I’m thinking.’ thought Heath for a fleeting moment.

Dodging the large hands, he laid two blows to the midsection and followed with a right which broke the nose of the giant showering the man with blood. An unearthly howl of pain sang out in the night from the blow and the giant turned his back exposing his kidneys to the former marshal. Placing two punches to the unprotected organs, Heath weaved out of the way of the hands and jumped back, perspiration pouring off his face in the terribly hot shack.

Jumping forward, the giant was propelled to one knee when a boot left his leg buckling with pain from the kick. Heath took advantage of the lowered man and tossed his head back with several punches, placing two kicks to the ribs of the giant before the man rose to his feet slowly. Heath’s boxing skills gained over the years and hand to hand training in the marshal service came rushing back in his reflexes.

Nick watched fascinated as Heath worked, dodging and weaving around the larger man. Avoiding the hands which reached for him. A loud scream turned Nick and Heath’s attention to their brother chained to the wall.

Nick held Jarrod’s head to the side when the shaking man vomited. Taking off his handkerchief, he wiped the sweaty injured face of his brother and smiled when the blue eyes slowly opened. The fear and lack of recognition in the eyes peering out from the bloody bruised face startled Nick and he tenderly caressed the bruised cheek.

“Jarrod, it’s Nick. Me and Heath found ya’. We’re here, Pappy.”

The momentary diversion of the scream caused Heath to see stars from the blow on the side of his head and the giant tossed the small man against the side of the shack. Shaking his head to clear his vision, Heath was jerked upwards and held in the large arms, the bearhug a death grip. The pressure on his ribs and back was excruciating, his fear of being crushed in the arms increased when he felt a rib snap and he cried out from the sudden burst of unbearable pain.

Nick heard the cry of pain and knew it was from Heath but his hands were full with his dazed brother now struggling against him. Combative and cursing, Jarrod fought against the captor holding his face and shoulders.

Screaming at Jarrod, Nick grunted from the pain of the legs that were kicking at him until he was able to secure them with one of his own strong legs. His shouts to his older brother not reaching through the wall his mind was behind.

Heath fought to get one arm free, the pain from the arms around him overwhelming his senses, his body felt as though it would snap in two. He brought his forehead down onto the already broken nose and felt a slight release in the arms from the pain of the blow.

Bringing out his left arm, he chopped quickly into the large neck and fell back onto the floor when he was freed by the massive hands reaching up to the injured neck.

Gasping for air, Heath trembled from the pain in his ribs and back, his eyes teared up from the white hot pokers stabbing his body. Reaching for his gun, the large hands wrapped themselves around his neck and lifted his feet off the ground. His hand fumbled for the pistol in his holster and he jabbed it into the large body.

His vision was narrowing when he emptied the gun, the reports were deafening in the small building and the blonde was dropped to the floor of the shack. The giant toppled over, his shirt covered in blood, his insides spilling out from the six bullets which split him open and took his life.

Chapter 12

“HEATH!” screamed Nick in terror when he saw the massive man had his little brother by the throat. His scream was drowned out by the sound of the gunshots in the small shack, his ears rung from the noises piercing his ear drums.

Jarrod flinched with each shot and fell back into unconsciousness as Heath’s body hit the floor and the giant fell victim to his David. Nick released his hold on his older brother and stumbled over to the still blonde, turning him over and calling his name.

“Heath? Oh my god!” cried Nick hearing the struggle for breaths coming from the blue lips.

Cory Paulson and another officer came running into the shack. Taking a quick look, the lieutenant ordered the man to fetch an ambulance. Nick glanced up at the officer and briefly filled in him before turning his attention back downwards.

“I’m right here little brother! Heath, wake up!” called Nick, glancing back towards Jarrod, the hazel eyes lit up with a question. “Keys? We need the keys to free Jarrod.”

“I’ll find them.” stated the officer rushing to the dead man and searching his pockets, his fingers felt the metal in the jacket pocket and he pulled them out. Unlocking the metal bracelets, he caught the freed man in his arms and dragged him over to his brothers.

Nick sighed gratefully when Jarrod was laid down beside Heath. Kneeling in between them, he shook his head. “Dammit, they’re both bad off.”

“I’ll take care of Heath, you take care of Jarrod.” ordered Cory effectively severing Nick’s connection with one brother so he could concentrate on the other. “JOHNSON!”

Another officer ran into the shack at the shout of his name. “Get me some ice, towels, cloths and blankets. Plenty of water, too.”

Nodding the man turned and ran across the estate to the main house, motioning for another to help.

Seeing the bruising around the neck of the former marshal, Paulson moved the blonde’s head slightly and nodded in satisfaction when the struggle for breaths seemed to ease. Running his hands down the limbs, Heath’s body suddenly turned rigid, his hands clenched into fists and his jaw tightened in his face.

Nick turned from his examination of Jarrod at the startled curse and pushed Paulson out of the way, leaning over he shouted in the blonde’s ear. “Heath, breathe slow. DAMMIT, DO WHAT I TELL YOU! NOW BREATH SLOWER!”

The officer watched in amazement as Nick’s shouted instructions worked its way through the pain which spread across the unconscious blonde’s face. Heath fought to obey the order, his insides on fire and his muscles spasming.

The beacon was calling out to him and he was fighting his way through the quicksand towards it, unable to move his legs which were mired down in the thickness and continue his way to the beacon. The spasm slowly passed and Nick opened Heath’s shirt grimacing at the bruising which covered his sides and wound around his back. “Help me turn him.”

Carefully, the two turned the gasping blonde over and Nick cursed at the bruising across the lower back and gently rolled Heath back over.

“You’re damn lucky the guy didn’t break your back.” mumbled Nick, caressing the blonde’s cheek. “Bet when you wake up this time, little brother, you’ll feel like you’re a hundred years old.”

“How’s Jarrod?” asked Paulson drawing Nick’s attention back to him.

Sighing deeply, Nick wiped a hand across his face, his words were thick with worry, “He’s real bad, got a good fever going, he’s real congested. Near as I can tell about three fractured ribs, deep cuts on his wrists from the damn cuffs which look like they’re infected. Looks like he’s lost about twenty pounds. He’ll need stitches in his head, probably got a concussion, bruising all over and I think they drugged him cause his hands tremble like a drunk’s when he hasn’t had any liquor for a while. Those sonsofabitches really did a number on him!”

“Jesus.” whispered Paulson in awe, his hand reaching over to squeeze Nick’s shoulder. “You’re brother’s a tough man to still be alive.”

Nick nodded and he held a hand of both his brothers, “They both have steel running through them and in their souls. Looking at Jarrod, you’d never expect it from a lawyer, but he’s as tough as they come. Heath was born with a gentle soul but the world toughened him inside and out before he shoulda been. Why the hell didn’t Heath just shoot the guy instead of fighting him?”

Looking over at the dead giant who in his estimation must have been at least six feet seven inches, the lieutenant sighed and stared into the tortured hazel eyes.

“Because he was unarmed, Mr. Barkley. That’s why. Your brother couldn’t shoot an unarmed man. But in the end he had to or risk being broken in half or choked to death.”

Understanding deepened the scowl on Nick’s face and he pulled his gaze downward to the brothers on either side of him. Both struggling for the precious life giving gift of air, both struggling to stay in the realm of this world. Both struggling in the darkness they’d been thrown into.

The talk was silenced at the arrival of the two officers carrying the requested items. Nick watch as Paulson placed two towels under Heath’s swollen neck with ice chunks in between the two pieces of cloth. Carefully lifting the ends together, the man requested a piece of rope. Ordering Johnson to hold the ends of the towel together, Paulson quickly wound the rope around and tied it off, securing the ice around the swollen neck.

“This should help reduce the swelling on his neck and maybe keep him breathing.” said the lieutenant seeing the question in the hazel eyes. “I saw a doctor do this once for a man after a bar fight.”

Nervously, Nick cleared his throat, “Did the man live?”

“No.” admitted the lieutenant quietly. “But he had a knife wound too.”

Closing his eyes briefly, Nick sent a prayer upwards before turning his attention to Jarrod with the towels and water provided. Tears trickled out of the hazel eyes while the shaky hands gently cleaned away the blood and grime, revealing the extent of the injuries to the eldest son. Several blankets appeared and hands helped to take the foul smelling clothes off the lawyer, then wrapped him in a blanket.

“Nick.” whispered the officer gesturing downwards at the half-opened sapphire eyes looking up at him.

Grinning in relief, Nick placed his face in Heath’s line of vision and frowned at the frenzy of panic which sprang into the dazed blue eyes. Running a hand through the blonde hair, Nick watched him struggle to speak until pain overtook the desire to talk when a spasm hit again.

“I know it hurts, boy!” consoled Nick gently, locking his hazel eyes with the blue eyes. “Kinda like old times, ain’t it little brother?”

Nick caught a brief flash of a lop-sided grin before Heath’s face contorted from the pain.

Holding onto Heath’s hand, Paulson felt his fingers go numb from the grip before the spasm passed and the lids on the blue eyes closed, the blonde was spent from the ordeal.

“Lieutenant, the ambulance is coming up the road.” stated another man after poking his head into the shack.

Chapter 13

Lieutenant Paulson entered the waiting room of the hospital, his eyes fell upon the lone occupant sitting on the corner settee, head held in his hands. Feeling someone watching him, Nick looked up and saw the officer standing in the doorway.

Rising to his feet, Nick held out his hand to the man when they met in the middle of the room.

“Thank you, Lieutenant for everything.” said Nick gratefully.

“Just doing my job, Mr. Barkley.” said Cory. “We were able to arrest Mia Ling and two more members of the tong. Have you heard anything on your brothers?”

Shaking his head, Nick rubbed the back of his neck, “No, not yet. I need to send a wire to Denver to our Mother and sister. I don’t want to leave here, if I wrote it out, could you have someone send it?”

“I’ll handle it personally, Mr. Barkley. Your brothers put their lives on the line for justice and to protect a witness whose testimony will rid our city of some very nasty people. I’d say San Francisco owes them more than it’ll ever be able to repay.” stated the officer taking a notebook and pencil from his pocket.

Nick took the items and sat at the table in the room. Staring at the paper for several minutes, he whispered to himself, “How do you tell a mother two of her children are seriously injured?”

Taking a deep breath, he wrote the wire and reread it before handing it over to the lieutenant.

“Thank you, Lieutenant.” sighed Nick.

Nodding, the officer put the wire in his pocket. “I’ll bring the reply as soon as I can.”

Shaking the hand again, Nick retook his seat on the settee and kept his eyes on the waiting room door. Two hours and two pots of coffee later, Nick jumped up at the two men entering the room.

Glancing around the room void of people except for the man dressed in black, an older man approximately in his fifties asked, “Mr. Barkley?”

“Yes, I’m Nick Barkley.” stammered Nick reaching for the hand offered in greeting.

“I’m Dr. Jonas Stanton and this is my colleague, Dr. Jim Blanton. I’m sorry for the wait, Mr. Barkley however we couldn’t leave your brothers until now.” informed the older man.

“How are they, Dr. Stanton? Are they still alive?” asked Nick, his hazel eyes wide in his pale face.

“Yes, they are, Mr. Barkley. Let’s have a seat at the table here and I’ll explain their condition to you.” smiled Dr. Stanton. Waiting until all three were seated at the table, Jonas opened a file with Jarrod’s name on the outside.

“Mr. Barkley, I understand your brother Jarrod was held against his will for at least a week or more. Is this correct?”

“Yes.” whispered Nick remembering his first glimpse of Jarrod when they entered the shack.

“Your brother Jarrod has several things we are concerned about right now. One of the major ailments we are treating him for is pneumonia. After his ribs were broken, three of them, he wasn’t able to breath deeply to inflate his lungs to their full potential. This caused a buildup of fluid, congestion. The pneumonia is causing the fever as well as the trauma his body was put through during his captivity. We have sutured the cuts on his wrists and head. He has a minor concussion.” stated Dr. Stanton quietly. “He has one other problem which Dr. Blanton will explain to you.”

The hazel eyes shifted to the younger man seated to his left, his voice trembled nervously. “They gave him something, didn’t they?”

“Your brother was given opium, Mr. Barkley.”

Closing his eyes briefly, the large hands clenched into fists and the hazel eyes glistened with tears. “Is that why his hands were shaking so bad?”

“Mr. Barkley, the people who held your brother gave him opium by injection. In order to create the addiction of opium in your brother, they would administer a dose then withhold the next dose for a certain period of time. The longer the time span in between doses, the worse the withdrawal symptoms are and the more he would need and want the drug to take the withdrawal away.”

“They made him an addict?” exclaimed Nick angrily. “Are you saying he’s gonna be an addict the rest of his life?”

Holding a hand up to stop any further questions, Dr. Blanton shook his head, “Mr. Barkley, we can reverse what they’ve done, but it won’t be easy. It takes a minimum of seventy two hours for the drug buildup to work it’s way out of his system. Mr. Barkley, the withdrawals your brother will be subject to are very painful to the patient. This is the time when most people die because they are not able to control their actions. They are combative, volatile, quick to enrage. They try to hurt themselves or those around them.”

“Then what? He’ll be okay then?” queried Nick holding his chin up with his clasped hands.

“The rest will then be up to your brother. It will depend on the type of inner strength he has to overcome.” replied Dr. Blanton putting a hand on the black sleeved arm. “From what I understand, I’d say he has a very good chance.”

Dr. Stanton closed Jarrod’s file and moved it to the side to open the one underneath it. Looking up, he met the worried hazel eyes across the table.

“Heath?”

Clearing his throat, the older man glanced down for a second before speaking, “Mr. Barkley, Heath was awake for a short period of time but unable to communicate. As you know, his neck sustained a brutal injury. Wrapping it in ice kept him from suffocating by keeping the swelling at bay for the time being. However, the swelling from the bruising has not stopped completely. We are closely monitoring his oxygen intake and applying ice to the area.”

“What if the swelling gets worse?” grilled Nick at the slight hesitation of the physician.

“If his oxygen intake is further compromised, we will be forced to proceed with a tracheotomy.” admitted Dr. Stanton.

“You wanna cut a hole in his neck?” shouted Nick in disbelief, jumping up from his chair.

Standing, Dr. Stanton answered truthfully, “Mr. Barkley, we don’t want to, however, we may HAVE to in order to save his life.”

Staring at the doctor, Nick slowly sank back down to his chair, his legs were as wobbly as a new born colt. Swallowing to fight the nausea, he whispered, “What else?”

“Heath has one broken rib and sustained deep bruising around the middle of his body, starting at his sides and around to his back. He is having spasms and seems to be breathing through them as much as he can.”

“He’s had them before.” said Nick quietly. “He hurt his back before.”

“How did he hurt his back before, Mr. Barkley?” questioned the physician.

Taking a deep breath, Nick replied, “Three men beat the hell out of him, stomped on his back and threw him out a two story window to land into the street below. His lower back was bruised and it was bout three weeks before he could stand. Three months after that he was back to riding. He had horrible spasms during his recovery.”

Nodding, Dr. Stanton finished writing the information in the file before looking up.

“A spasm is one way a person’s body has of protecting the spine. During the struggle, the pressure of the man’s clenched fists were pushing in on his back. It could be due to the swelling of the area, however, I am inclined to believe the man injured one of your brother’s vertebrae. Mr. Barkley, your brother cannot feel us when we test his legs.”

“He won’t walk again? Ever?” choked out Nick, clenching his hands which had begun to shake.

“I’m afraid we can’t answer that question now. We will have to wait until the swelling does subside. If the vertebrae is cracked and intact, there is a chance he will regain complete use of his legs with therapy. However, Mr. Barkley, if the vertebrae is crushed, the prognosis is not as good. We have placed Heath in a morphine induced coma to prevent him from moving when the spasms occur and eliminate any chance of further injury. He was highly agitated I believe due to his concern over the welfare of Jarrod. The coma will give his body a chance to rest and start to heal itself.”

“Can I see them?”

“Soon, Mr. Barkley. I’ll send someone out to get you.” assured Dr. Stanton quietly as he stood and picked up the two files. “If you think of anything you want to ask or know, I’ll be staying here at the hospital. You can let one of the nurses know and they’ll find me.”

Nodding, Nick stared at the backs of the two men as they left. His tearing eyes not seeing his surroundings, only seeing two brothers full of life and laughter as they were two months ago, before the wire came and hell followed.

“Where did Heath take Gene and the Jenkins?” asked Nick out loud to the empty room.

Chapter 14

How does one tell a mother two of her children are seriously injured? How do you ready someone for news of the worst kind over a wire service?

Strong, confident, swaggering Nick Barkley had asked himself these questions before he wrote the wire out. Four states away when the gray eyes read the wire a great fear swept through the reader.

Mother

I need you desperately at San Francisco General Hospital

Please hurry

Nick

Two lines of text burned her eyes with tears, her soul filled with dread and she realized the feeling of discomfort and discontent she’d been experiencing the past few days was her mother’s voice.

The mother’s voice whispering she was needed at home. The mother’s voice hinted her world was not the same. The mother’s voice she realized she’d ignored, passing it off as homesickness.

The wire was quickly replied to before the train left the Denver station, the occupants’ thoughts on the rocking train were of what they would find when they reached the promised land of California.

“Mother, why didn’t Nick tell us what was wrong?” worried Audra wringing her lace handkerchief in her hands.

“You can’t send that type of information in a wire, Audra.” assured Victoria with a small smile. “Nick’s message was clear enough. Audra, could you please get me some tea from the dining car?”

Audra nodded and climbed to her feet. Jim Barkley watched his niece and turned to his sister-in-law as soon as she was out of earshot.

“Vic, what are you thinking Nick’s wire means?” questioned Jim, his blue eyes curious and intently watching the worried mother.

Sighing, Victoria brushed back the tears which sprang to her eyes. “It’s Jarrod and Heath.”

Jim couldn’t keep the surprise out of his eyes at her firm statement. “But Vic, why would you think that?”

“Nick and Heath have become inseparable, partners and brothers in every sense of the word. If Heath were hurt, Jarrod would send the wire and Nick would not leave Heath’s side. If Jarrod were hurt, Heath would send the wire so Nick could stay by Jarrod’s side.” explained Victoria quietly. “Nick would never admit he needs help desperately, either.”

Nodding, Jim said, “So, Nick sending the wire means both Jarrod and Heath are hurt. Maybe it’s Eugene?”

Shaking her head, Victoria closed her eyes briefly before responding, “Eugene is in Berkeley at college. He is not due for a break from school for two more months. If it was Eugene, we wouldn’t be heading to San Francisco and Jarrod would be sending the wire because neither Nick or Heath would not want to leave their little brother’s side. As the eldest brother, Jarrod would have felt it was his responsibility to send a wire.”

Reaching over, Jim squeezed one of the small hands and smiled, “Whatever it is, Vic, you know you can count on me to help in anyway I can.”

Patting the large hand, Victoria smiled gratefully, “I know Jim and I appreciate your coming with us.”

“Well, Vic, I have to see this nephew who is the younger image of me.” winked Jim. “From your letters and what you’ve told me, he sounds like a handsome, dashing devil.”

Laughing, Victoria replied, “The first time I saw Heath, I felt like I’d been thrown back in time thirty years. It was quite a shock and I forgot for a few moments there were bullets flying around. I swear I felt the world stop revolving.”

Sitting back in his seat, Jim Barkley flashed a lop-sided grin, “Same thing my beautiful Clara said to me when we first met.”

The lop-sided grin and sparkling blue eyes caused her heart to twist and Victoria bit back a sob. Jim moved quickly to the seat beside her and pulled her to his chest.

“Vic, everything’ll be fine. You’ll see.” comforted the large man.

Dabbing at her eyes, she nodded and looked up, “I’m sorry, Jim. You looked so much like Heath just now, it took me by surprise.”

Patting her back gently, he whispered, “Damn, I wish Tom known he had another son. The boy needed a father when he was growing.”

“Yes, he did.” admitted Victoria drying her tears and smiling. “Now, he has a grandfather, brothers, sisters, uncle and aunt, cousins. Heath’s just drowning in relatives now.”

“And a mother who loves him very much.” whispered Jim brushing back a strand of silver hair. “With you as their mother, nothing will keep those boys down.”

“Thank you, Jim. That’s the greatest compliment anyone has ever given me.”

Two days later, Jim, Victoria and Audra walked into the San Francisco General hospital. The train arrived earlier than expected. A nurse directed them to the second floor where Nick was with Jarrod.

Victoria’s steps were rushed at the sight of her son, leaning against the wall and bent over at his waist outside a room, his gasps for air heard down the hallway.

“Nick?”

Looking up at the voice, the hazel eyes filled with tears and he collapsed in his mother’s arms pulling her to the floor in the hallway, his sobs unable to be contained.

Chapter 15

A myriad of colors burst before his eyes and he fell forward to the carpeted floor of his living room, once a haven from the outside world which now had the audacity to invade his sanctuary. The giant was huge and unable to be cast aside by a mere man. Jarrod lost the battle and the war, his body pummeled by the large hands, their blows tossing him like a rag doll.

Opening his eyes, he squinted at the light from a lantern several feet away and felt the cold metal biting into his skin. Looking to the side, he saw his arms captured by their wrists. He struggled against the chains binding him to no avail.

His shoulders and wrists screamed in agony when he tried to move his body forward with his feet levered against the wall. Hoping to loosen the screws keeping his chains attached to the wall. It was not successful and only succeeded in cutting the metal deeper into his wrists, the blood ran down his arms.

He would not be able to free himself.

His sleeves had been torn from his shirt and he wondered why for a brief moment before the sound of a key turning in a lock turned his head towards a door. A door which was the only opening in the solid walls.

The opening of the door brought three people, two men, one of them the giant and a woman. All of Chinese descent. The three pairs of black eyes gleamed when they saw the blue eyes staring at them.

“What do you want?” inquired Jarrod watching the beautiful woman walk towards him. “Why am I here?”

Kneeling by his side, she smiled and gestured towards the giant, “I am Mia Ling and this is my bodyguard, Mr. Barkley.”

Mia saw the flare of recognition in the blue eyes at her name and nodded, “Yes, you know me?”

“Not personally.” replied Jarrod, his eyes moving between the three. “We have never been formally introduced. If you needed the services of an attorney, you could have made an appointment with my secretary, Miss Ling.”

Laughing at the man’s outrageousness, Mia smiled before she stood up, “Yes, I could have but then I wouldn’t have your undivided attention, Mr. Barkley.”

Intently keeping them in his sight, Jarrod felt a quiver of fear at the look of anticipation in the eyes of the bodyguard. The look was of evil mixed with almost a look of happiness.

“May I ask why you would need my undivided attention?”

“Mr. Barkley, I need to know the whereabouts of your client Tad Jenkins. It appears two men came in the middle of the night and moved Jenkins with his family out of San Francisco.” stated Mia.

“Why don’t you go to the post office? They may have left a forwarding address.” replied Jarrod innocently, satisfied with the anger which sprang into her eyes.

“I would suggest you think harder, Mr. Barkley.” snapped Mia. “You may have an easier time during your stay with us if you tell me where he is.”

“I gave you a suggestion of how to find this family. Now, I will need to send a bill to you for an hour’s time. Unless of course you have other matters you which to discuss.” stated Jarrod politely.

Snapping her fingers, the other smaller man opened the case he held in his hands and take a bottle out. Jarrod swallowed the fear rising as he watched him fill a syringe. Finishing, he nodded to Mia.

“Mr. Barkley, in this needle is opium. Once injected it will work its way through your body, overtaking everything else you may feel or think. In time, you will tell me what I want to know.” stated Mia.

“I don’t believe that will ever happen, Miss Ling.” informed Jarrod calmly, his voice not revealing the terror he felt inside of what was about to happen. “You may as well let me loose now.”

Chuckling, she motioned with her head and the giant knelt beside the chained attorney. Holding firmly onto his arm, Jarrod cursed at the man coming towards him with the needle. Kicking out with his legs, his stomach burst out in pain from the massive hand which plunged into it.

Nausea rose up in his throat and he gasped for the air the blow expelled from his body. The needle was plunged into his arm and the drug introduced. His body relaxed as the euphoria began, his head lolled to the side and he fought to keep his mind coherent.

The face before him wavered in and out, shimmering and moving. The face became distorted and misshapen. He blinked his eyes rapidly to bring his focus to one point, unable to accomplish what he wanted.

“Where is Jenkins?” asked the voices over and over, hours at a time, always asking.

The hunger for the devil grew inside him, he could feel himself weakening as he lost all sense of time, all sense of anything except the wish for release from torment which only the devil could provide. The cycle of fulfillment and absence a vicious cycle which would start with a turn of a key.

The turning of a key in the lock caused him to well up with terror and desire at the same time. His mind couldn’t comprehend simple thoughts except he knew he couldn’t give in. If he answered the question, if he revealed what he knew, he would cease to be.

Thoughts of his family searching for him kept him strong until the devil started to steal them away. The voices told him he was alone, they was no one to help him. He’d shake his head in denial, holding onto the hope of the deep voice which kept sounding in his head on the fringes of the torment.

“We’re coming, Pappy!”

How long could one hold out against terror? Against desire? Against the need to seek escape in the devil’s offering? How long?

His body was betraying him and his mind was starting to follow suit. His injuries taking away the strength he needed for the battle and the war.

His mind clear of everything except the need to satisfy the hunger, the turning of the lock was a faint sound in his ears, stirring him to consciousness slowly.

Screams startled him and he kicked out at the noise which increased his terror. His name was shouted over and over, something was pinning his legs in place.

Opening his eyes, he saw the vision in front of him, face turned away. The face distorted and faded until a single scream of terror pierced his soul.

“HEATH!”

The name of one close to him, the surge of hope in his soul was snuffed out at the cannon fire which sounded in his ears, his body flinching with each round fired. The noise shattered the last hope in his being and he fell back into the deep recesses.

They came and now they were dead, killed by the cannon fire.

He was alone.

Continued…