New Start

Chapter 32

Jarrod and Nick returned with the surrey, Charger and Coco. As Nick went inside the doctor’s office, Jarrod tied Rio to the back of the surrey beside Charger.

Nick held the door open as Heath came out carrying an unconscious Sue in his arms, wrapped in some blankets that Mrs. Merar had lent them. Jack followed carrying her gunbelt and some laudanum in a sack for the pain Sue would be experiencing when she was conscious again.

Jarrod helped Heath lay Sue on the backseat of the surrey and then climbed in the front seat. Jack handed the sack to Heath as he sat on the floor to ensure Sue stayed on the seat during the ride to the ranch.

“Don’t worry Jack!” said Heath as he took the sack.

“I won’t. If she wakes up before you get there you better give her some laudanum to knock her out.” suggested Jack as he gently touched his friend’s cheek.

“She’ll be fine Jack. We’ll take good care of her.” stated Nick as he squeezed Jack’s shoulder. “We’ll see you after you pick up your horses tomorrow.”

“Thanks!” said Jack as he stepped back from the surrey and nodded to Jarrod who started the horses forward towards the Barkley ranch.

After the surrey disappeared out of sight, Jack headed towards the mission to leave a note for Charity. Jack’s thoughts were on Sue’s reaction when she would wake at the Barkley ranch. Chuckling, he knew that he didn’t want to be there when that happened.

After leaving the note, he headed towards the hotel, deep in thought when he was stopped by John Travis, “Good evening, Mr. Franklin.”

“Mr. Travis, I didn’t see you there, sorry.” apologized Jack as he saw he had almost ran the man over.

“I heard that Miss Weston had taken ill, Mr. Franklin. I hope everything is alright.”

“I’m afraid I don’t know what you’re talking about, Mr. Franklin. Miss Weston’s quite fine and spending the evening at the Barkleys.” said Jack calmly knowing his boss would not like her condition to be broadcast especially to this man who she didn’t like.

“Oh, I’m afraid I must have heard wrong. I had heard she was at the doctor’s office. Terribly sorry about that, Mr. Franklin.” said Travis with a puzzled look.

“Yes, she was visiting the Merars. I can assure you she’s in good hands. Good night, Mr. Travis.” stated Jack as he walked into the hotel and up to his room.

John Travis walked to his house pondering on this new development. “Well, it seems I underestimated our little Texas cowgirl. She must not have been hurt at all. She’s spending the evening with the Barkleys!”

“What the hell is that all about.” sneered Travis as he walked into his house.

“This is going to require some help from my silent partner. He can find out for me what I need to know.”

Realizing that Barrett could find out what he needed to know as to Sue Weston’s condition since he was already at the Barkley ranch, he smiled suddenly feeling better.

Chapter 33

The ride to the ranch was slow but Sue did not awaken. The three brothers talked amongst themselves trying to guess what may have caused her to be in this condition.

“Maybe she fell off her horse, Heath.” suggested Jarrod.

“Jarrod, she’s been riding since she was seven years old. I can’t see that happening.” explained Heath with a sigh.

“Well, sometimes things happen that we have no control over, brother Heath,” stated Jarrod as he smiled at his younger brother.

“I say we wait and let her tell us when she wakes up again.” said Nick as he rode beside the surrey. “No use trying to guess when it could have been a million different things.”

Heath nodded, “You’re right Nick. We’re almost there anyway and she’ll tell us soon enough.”

Jarrod stopped the surrey in front of the house and jumped down, “I’m gonna let Mother know so she can help settle Miss Weston into bed.”

Nick called for Ciego to come and take care of the horses as he climbed down from Coco and walked over to help Heath with Sue.

Heath groaned as Sue moaned and opened her eyes, looked around and stated angrily, “Heath, this is not my ranch!”

“Sue, you can’t go to your ranch and be there alone. Doctor’s orders.” sighed Heath with a glare at Nick who had awoken the sleeping monster.

“He’s right! You just have to stay here.” stated Nick in a matter-of-fact voice.

Sue held her hand to her head to stop the pounding that had started as soon as she had opened her eyes, “Get my horse. I am not staying here! I told you I..”

“Miss Weston, I’m so glad my sons brought you here to stay with us.” said Victoria interrupting the angry words as she walked up to the surrey.

Smiling at Sue’s expression and having a gut feeling that she wouldn’t argue, Victoria said. “I understand that Mr. Franklin was so worried about how he would take care of you and meet the train tomorrow.”

“Yes, Mrs. Barkley thank you.” said Sue meekly as she knew Mrs. Barkley had no intention of letting her leave the ranch on horseback. As unhappy as she may be about the situation, Sue could never be disrespectful to a woman like Victoria Barkley.

“Heath and Nick, will you help Miss Weston upstairs to the guest room?” asked Victoria as she went to hold the door open for the boys and their guest.

Nick and Heath grinned at Sue knowing that even as stubborn as she was, she wouldn’t disrespect Victoria Barkley by turning down her invitation or acting like a spoiled child.

“You better wipe those smiles off your faces.” whispered Sue as she glared at Nick and Heath. Sue winced in pain as Nick carefully picked her up, carried her into the house and up the stairs with Heath and Victoria following closely behind.

By the time, Nick had placed gently her on the bed and against the pillows Audra and Jarrod had readied for their visitor, Sue was perspiring from the pain that was coursing through her body, the throbbing in her head and the ringing in her ears.

Feeling the bile rising in her throat, she struggled to turn on her right side with Victoria helping. She lost the contents of her stomach in the basin Audra held and fought the darkness that was on the edge of her consciousness.

Noting the pallor of her skin, Victoria advised, “We need to get her undressed. Boys, you will have to leave.”

Victoria pushed the reluctant men towards the door of the room.

“Okay Mother! As soon as you’re done, we’re coming back in.” stated Nick firmly as he and his brothers left the room and headed downstairs.

Chapter 34

As Nick poured them drinks, Jarrod exclaimed unbelievably “I still can’t believe she came all that way in her condition!”

“She’s one tough lady. There’s not many like her.” admitted Nick with a smile. “I know some men who couldn’t ride half as far as she did and feeling only half as poorly as she does.”

“Yep, you’re right there Nick.” agreed Heath. “She’s always been a tough lady, but she’s got a gentle side to her nature too. I’m proud to call her my friend.”

Audra came downstairs and let her brothers know they could come back into the room. “Mother gave her some laudanum so she will be sleeping soon.”

When there was a knock at the front door, Nick said to the others as they stopped on the stairs, “I’ll get it. I’ll be up in a little while.”

Jarrod, Heath and Audra continued up the stairs as Nick opened the door to see Duke on the landing.

“Hi Duke, kinda late isn’t it?”

“Hi Nick. Sorry about this but thought you should come check something out in the barn. It’s important.” explained Duke.

“Okay, let’s go.” said Nick updating Duke on Sue’s condition as they walked to the barn.

When they entered the barn Duke explained that he had been helping Ciego by grooming Rio before boarding him for the night.

“When I was grooming him Nick, this is what I found.” said Duke as he pointed out the red mark on Rio’s hindquarters to his boss.

“What the? That’s a bullet crease!” exclaimed Nick angrily.

“That’s what I thought too. I put some salve on it to keep it from getting infected. Do you want me to get the Sheriff?” asked Duke wondering why someone would shoot at a woman.

“I’ll talk to Fred myself in the morning. You get some sleep and thanks, Duke.”

“Okay, good night.” said Duke as he walked out of the barn.

Nick looked at the mark on Rio again. “Yep, a bullet crease. Who the hell would be shooting at her?” thought Nick as he felt his blood beginning to boil.

“Rio, sure wish you could tell us what happened up there on that mountain.” said Nick gently as he rubbed Rio’s neck. “When I find out who took a shot at her, he’ll wish he’d never been born.”

Nick made his way back to the house after making sure Rio was settled in a stall for the night. As he walked towards the guest room, Victoria stepped out into the hallway with Jarrod and Audra.

“Nick, Heath is going to stay with Miss Weston tonight. She’s asleep now from the laudanum and sleep is the best thing for her.” explained Victoria.

“Okay, Mother.” said Nick.

“Who was at the door, Nick? Is everything okay?” asked Jarrod curiously because of the expression on Nick’s face.

“It was Duke. He wanted to show me the bullet crease he found on Rio.” said Nick angrily as gasps of shock could be heard from the group.

“What! Somebody shot at her?” asked Audra incredibly.

“Sure looks that way.”

“Maybe we will find out more from Miss Weston tomorrow after a night’s rest.” explained Jarrod.

“I suggest we all get some sleep.” stated Victoria. “I already told Heath, but if you need me, don’t hesitate to wake me.”

“I’m gonna stay with Heath. I’ll see you in the morning.” said Nick as he opened the door to the guest room.

Chapter 35

Heath was seated on the left side of the bed in a chair with his chin propped on this palm watching Sue when Nick entered the room. The bruises vividly standing out on her face were a sharp contract to the pale hue. Her cheeks rosy from the fever that was causing sweat beads to form on her forehead under the bandage that was wrapped around her head.

Glancing up at his brother as he entered, Heath sighed “She looks horrible.”

“She still looks beautiful to me.” said Nick softly as he looked at the bruise covering the side of Sue’s face as Heath wiped the sweat from her forehead.

“Everyone else asleep?” asked Heath.

“Well, they went to bed but I don’t know about the sleeping part.” Nick ran his fingers through his hair and glanced at Heath, “Duke found a bullet crease on Rio.”

Heath’s head snapped up and he jumped up to his feet. ”A bullet crease!” he said with fury.

The tone of Heath’s voice caused Sue to startle herself awake from the drug induced hazy sleep she had fallen into just a short while ago. A gasp caused Nick and Heath to jump as they quickly moved to the bed to see the sluggish green eyes greeting them.

“Whats matter?” asked Sue softly as she looked around the room slowly.

“Hey, you’re the one we’re concerned with.” answered Heath with a smile.

“Sue, can you tell us what happened?” asked Nick quietly.

Sue gazed at Nick with confused eyes trying to work her way out of the fog that her memory appeared to be in. “Riding. A snake.” said Sue as her eyelids drooped. “Hate snakes.”

Heath chuckled as Sue fell asleep. “Yeah, I know you hate snakes.”

“I learned she doesn’t like snakes, just what we needed to know.” sighed Nick as he sat in a chair on the opposite side of the bed from Heath.

“It’ll be a long night, I’m gonna make some coffee.” said Heath softly as he walked to the door.

Nick walked to the bed and started to gently wipe the sweat off Sue’s forehead from the fever. He cautiously dabbed the cloth on her face and neck carefully to avoid causing her any more pain from the bruises that had formed. He repeated this action over as he replayed the scene in his head where she had arrived at the house when Heath had landed at her feet.

“My little chameleon, how different you were that day compared to the other day when I met you outside the bank. Heath sure knows how to pick his friends. I’d say he’s the richest man around with friends like you and Jack on his side.” said Nick softly to the sleeping beauty. “Now, what happened on that mountain.”

Nick waited but no answer was forthcoming, only a moan and words in some language he didn’t understand came from the rosy lips. Her eyes moved beneath her eyelids and her head slowly moved from side to side. Nick wiped her forehead again and shushed Sue when the moving increased as she was caught up in her dreams.

“Rifle shot. Rio.” were part of the mumblings that Nick could decipher.

Nick was mesmerized by the small glimpse into what she had gone through from her fevered and drug induced words. He was awed that someone could have such fierce grit and determination to have made it to Stockton from the mountain. “My god, this is a woman!” he thought as he continued to wipe the sweat from her forehead.

“Shhhh Sue, you’re safe. It’s okay now.” Nick softly reassured as her mumblings turned into murmurs.

Heath quietly opened the door while holding the coffee pot and cups. Stopping in the doorway, he watched in amazement at the gentleness Nick used in caring for his friend and trying to coax her into sleeping.

“Shhhhh. We’ll take good care of you. You’re safe here. Go to sleep.”

As he watched, Heath wondered if Audra hadn’t been onto something with her thoughts of matchmaking.

Chapter 36

Victoria had awoken and unable to sleep any longer insisted Heath and Nick go to bed around four the next morning as the worry and fatigue was showing on their faces. She knew they would still have to run the ranch and would need the sleep to replenish their strength.

“I will take over for you now. You go to bed and get some sleep.”

“I’m not tired.” stated Heath as he gently wiped Sue’s forehead.

“Me either, Mother.” said Nick firmly as he watched his brother.

“Boys, you can’t run a ranch without sleep. She won’t be awake for a while and you can see Miss Weston after you’ve had some rest.”

Neither of the men moved from the small territory by the bed they had claimed. Both were so different in their build and mannerisms, but they had the same depth of passion when it came to someone they called friend or family. Both were as stubborn as the woman who lay sleeping in the bed, unaware of the special treatment she was receiving at the hands of the two Barkleys.

“If you don’t go to sleep now, I will not permit you to see Miss Weston tomorrow.” threatened Victoria while hating to use Miss Weston as leverage.

“What!” Nick said angrily.

“Mother, you can’t do that!” blurted out Heath as his face drained of all color.

Nick overcoming the shock of Heath’s word and seeing the color drain from his brother’s face tried to help Heath through his discomfort.

“We better go, Heath. When Mother gets that look in her eye, she means it!” said Nick as he gently steered the stunned Heath towards the door and into the hallway.

“Good night, Sons” smiled Victoria widely as she shut the door behind them.

Nick stood in the hallway with Heath who still had a dumbfounded look on his face. Nick took Heath’s arm and pulled him to his room. Heath followed along as if he was in a trance.

“Heath?” asked Nick as he sat his brother on the bed and took a chair opposite him.

When he didn’t respond, Nick said louder. “Heath!”

Heath blinked and looked at his brother, “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to call Mrs. Barkley, mother.”

Nick frowned, “What’s wrong with that, Heath?”

“She’s your mother, not mine.” was the whispered reply from the hanging head.

“Heath, look at me!” said Nick firmly waiting for Heath to raise his head before continuing. “I’ve seen how much you love and respect her, Heath. I think you’re just worried about Sue and not thinking clearly.”

Blue eyes looked at the hazel eyes with confusion and hurt, “I’m thinking fine, Nick. I don’t have the right to call her mother.”

“Why not?”

“Because I’m the mistake.” Heath answered in a tired voice.

“I don’t want to hear that crap about you being a mistake again. Saying that is disrespectful to your mother who loved and raised you!” replied Nick in a raised voice at his brother. “Mother loves us all the same and that includes you!”

“You don’t understand, Nick.”

With his temper flaring from lack of sleep and worry, Nick snarled, “Unless you don’t think she’s good enough to be your mother!”

Heath stood up and fire shown out of his eyes as he faced Nick angered by his words, “I didn’t say she wasn’t good enough to be my mother. I’m not good enough to be her son!”

Nick flinched as Heath’s words wrenched his heart and twisted his soul. “Why would you say something like that Heath!”

Heath walked stiffly to the door and opened it, “I’m tired and don’t want to talk about it, Nick. Goodnight.”

Nick walked past Heath into the hallway to his room, stunned by his brother’s words and unable to sleep that night.

Chapter 37

Saturday breakfast was a somber affair at the Barkley ranch. Nick and Heath were quiet and not conversing. Jarrod and Audra had tried to engage the two in conversation, but it was to no avail.

Jarrod puzzled over this latest turn of events since when he went to bed last night, everything had seemed fine between them. Now in a span of hours, it was if the foundation they had built over the past two weeks had crumbled.

Victoria joined the family in breakfast as Silas stood watch over their patient. Sipping her coffee, sensing the shift of the mood and relationship between the brothers, she ventured a look at Jarrod. Jarrod shrugged as he had no idea of what had happened either.

“Heath, did Dr. Merar advise what time he would be arriving to check on Miss Weston this morning?” inquired Victoria.

Heath quietly answered, “He said he’d be here by noon, ma’am.”

The hurt of hearing ‘ma’am’ reflected in Victoria’s eyes and caused Nick to snort and say sarcastically, “Do you want us to give you permission, brother?”

Pushing his chair back angrily, Heath growled at Nick, “I told ya I don’t wanna talk about it.” as he walked out of the room without a backwards glance and they heard the slam of the front door.

Nick sighed and held his head in his hands as the rest of the family watched, concerned over the two brothers’ reactions to each other. They had been lulled into a false sense of security since the snarling and snapping between the two had disappeared over the past couple weeks.

“What’s happened, Nick?” asked a concerned Audra.

“Does it have anything to do with Heath calling me, Mother, last night?” asked Victoria as she remembered her elation and then her concern as Heath’s face paled when he had realized what he had done.

“Heath called you, Mother?” Jarrod and Audra asked at the same time.

“Yes he did and it thrilled me to the depths of my soul.” said Victoria proudly.

Nick had placed his chin on top of his clasped hands and stared at the opposite wall. Victoria concerned at his reaction, “Nick, do you mind if Heath calls me Mother? I love him and think of him as my son but understand how difficult it may be for the rest of you.”

Shaking his head and looking at his mother with eyes that seemed to be on the verge of welling with tears, he said in a shaky voice, “I don’t mind Mother. I’m proud that you’re the type of person someone would be honored to call mother.”

The rest of the family held their tongues waiting while Nick brought his emotions under control before continuing, “It’s not you, me or the family that Heath’s having a problem with. It’s himself.”

Victoria nodded with understanding, “I should have realized that Heath may have felt he was turning his back on Leah, by calling me mother. That’s my mistake.”

“Mother, that’s not it either!” growled Nick as his brother’s words echoed in his mind. “He said it was because he was the mistake.”

“I thought we had decided we weren’t going to try to change the past.” sighed Victoria. “I thought we had put all of that behind us.”

Nick nodded and spoke, “I was angry at what he called himself and asked him if it was because he ‘didn’t think you were good enough to be his mother’.”

“Nick!” admonished Jarrod.

“I didn’t mean it pappy. I thought he was gonna hit me for a second there before he said…” Nick stopped and swallowed as his throat had constricted at the thought of the words Heath had spoken.

Jarrod worriedly looked at his brother and said softly, “What did he say, Nick?”

“He said, ‘I didn’t say she wasn’t good enough to be my mother. I’m not good enough to be her son’” stated Nick to his shocked family.

“Not good enough? What does that mean?” Victoria inquired of her son with a demanding tone of voice as Jarrod and Audra’s faces had wounded looks on them.

“I asked him why he would say such a thing, but he said he didn’t want to talk about it and opened the door for me to leave his room.” sighed Nick.

“Maybe Heath was just upset about Miss Weston and not thinking clearly?” suggested Audra.

“Audra, we were both tired, but somehow I don’t think that’s it. I think it’s something else.” replied Nick.

Jarrod gathered his thoughts as the rest of the family reflected on Nick’s revelation. Taking a deep breath, Jarrod quietly spoke, “Mother, we only know a little of Heath’s life before he came to us. I can’t imagine how I would feel about myself if people were constantly putting me down, calling me ugly names just because of my circumstances of birth. Circumstances that no child has any control over. I think he carries a lot of hurt, anger and other stuff inside of him from all those years.”

Looking at his family, Jarrod sighed, “I’m no expert but I’d think this would cause insecurity and the feeling that perhaps he’s not worthy of the love we give him. As how to help him through these things, I have no suggestion except that we keep telling Heath how we feel and showing it to him. No matter how much he pushes us away.”

Audra and Victoria wiped the tears from their eyes that had streamed down their cheeks as Jarrod had provided his heart-wrenching views. Nick once again was holding his head in his hands as the realization of what Heath had gone through in the past caused the anger he thought he had quelled to surface once again.

“Dammit! He shouldn’t have grown up like that! How’re we supposed to help him deal with the first 24 years of his life. Hell, I can’t help him deal with calling Mother, mother one time!” growled Nick as he angrily stalked from the dining room as the rest of the family listened to the slamming of the front door for the second time that morning.

Chapter 38

Dr. Merar arrived at the Barkley house before noon to check on his patient with Jack Franklin and Davey Hinton accompanying him after they had met the doctor on the trail.

As they dismounted and walked to the door, Jack asked “Do you think we’ll be able to move her to the ranch, doc?”

Howard smiled as he knocked on the door, “I know she’ll probably want to leave, but I’ll let you know after I see how she’s doing.”

Silas greeted the visitors and directed them into the foyer where Victoria greeted them.

“Howard, thank you for coming all this way. Mr. Franklin, it’s nice to see you again. I trust the horses made it here safely.”

Jack took off his hat before answering, “Yes, they did. Thank you, Mrs. Barkley for watching over our boss for us. This is Davey Hinton, our wrangler. Davey, this is Heath’s stepmother, Mrs. Victoria Barkley.”

Jack had informed Davey off all that had happened since they arrived in Stockton while they were delivering the horses to their new home.

Davey with his hat off shook the hand of Mrs. Barkley. “Pleasure to meet you ma’am.” he drawled shyly.

“Victoria, is Miss Weston awake and alert?” inquired Howard.

“Yes, she has been awake for awhile. She was able to get a lot of rest because of the laudanum last night and she looks so much better. She was able to keep a little broth down this morning.” informed Victoria as she lead the men up stairs towards the guest room.

“Gentleman, please wait here while I examine her.” stated Howard to Jack and Davey who nodded and leaned against the wall while Howard and Victoria entered the room and closed the door.

Howard walked to the bed noting the clear green eyes that watched his approach.

“Morning Dr. Merar.” said Sue quietly. “I’m afraid I was a little off kilter yesterday and may have been a little abrupt.”

“I’m afraid I have no idea what you are speaking about, young lady.” said Howard with a smile at the relief that shown in the eyes.

“Now, let’s see how you’re doing. There are two anxious cowboys outside waiting to see you and get an updated report.” stated Howard as he started his examination.

Jack and Davey waited patiently in the hallway while the examination going on. Jack smiled as he saw Heath coming from the stairs.

“Heath, look who’s here!”

Heath shook the hand of the wrangler enthusiastically, “Davey! Boy howdy, you’re even prettier than the last time I saw you!” teased Heath with a lopsided grin.

“Geez Heath, can’t a man make one little mistake without his friends reminding him all the time.” groaned Davey as Jack and Heath chuckled remembering the time Davey had ridden back to the ranch drunk with makeup on his face, a feathered hat and a feather boa from one of the saloon girls around his neck.

“You look great Heath. Sorry to hear about your mama.”

“Thanks Davey. Why are you guys waiting in the hall?”

“Dr. Merar is in there examining the boss.” explained Jack.

Heath stood by his friends to wait for the report on Sue’s condition as Davey told him and Jack about his trip from Texas.

“I can’t wait til the boss can take care of Satan herself!” groaned Davey. “His name fits him and he sure don’t like me.”

Heath chuckled, “He doesn’t like anyone but Sue. She’ll be glad to have him back with her and Rio.”

Jack smiled, “Heath, he let you ride him that one time, remember?”

Davey snickered as Heath rolled his eyes, “That’s only because Sue was behind me in the saddle holding me so I wouldn’t fall off. If I had tried to ride him alone, he’d have finished what those rustlers tried to do.”

Davey and Jack laughed knowing full well what Heath said was true. That horse sure didn’t like anyone but Sue. The three of them entertained themselves by joshing each other until they heard an angry raised voice on the other side of the door.

“What do you mean I have to stay here at least two more days? I have a ranch to run! I can’t do that laying here in bed for two more days!”

The trio looked at each other and cringed as they knew the owner of that voice was not a happy person right now.

“Miss Weston,” Howard shouted back trying to break through the wall of stubbornness around his patient. “You’re not in any condition to travel for at least two days. Do you want to have a setback and be in bed longer?”

Victoria covered her mouth to hide the smile that was threatening to break out on her face while watching the two adversaries fighting a battle of wills between them. One steadfast in his medical judgment and who would forge through fire for his patients’ welfare. The other driven by her hardworking nature and the need to be independent of all others.

“Miss Weston, do you trust your foreman, Jack Franklin?” inquired Howard innocently.

Sue, shocked and angry at the accusation, replied sarcastically, “Of course I trust him or he wouldn’t be my foreman.”

“Then trust him to take over for you a couple of days. It’s only a couple of days and then you can move back to your ranch.” stated Howard while closing up his medical bag.

“Miss Weston, your ranch is not that far away and I’m sure Mr. Franklin will keep you updated on everything. “ said Howard to a stunned Sue who was still trying to come up with a way to leave the Barkley ranch.

He walked to the door. “Victoria, keep her in bed the rest of this day and tonight. Tomorrow, you can try sitting her up in a chair and short walks. She may experience dizzy spells which would be expected from her condition. If anything else arises, please inform me at once.”

“I will and thank you, Howard.” smiled Victoria.

Howard walked out into the hallway and smiled at the three men standing there, “Gentlemen, you may see her now. Good day.”

Chapter 39

Sue’s dark mood improved considerably when she saw her visitors walk into the room. Raising her right hand, she motioned Davey over and gave him a hug.

“Davey, it’s good to see you! How was your trip?”

“Trip was fine boss, but I’m faring better than you or so it seems.” replied Davey while his eyes took in her battered condition. “What happened, did you fall off Rio?”

Smiling, she replied “As a matter of fact, I did. Of course, I had some help from a snake and someone taking a shot at me.”

Jack and Davey were shocked as Heath had neglected to tell them of the discovery of the bullet crease on Rio found by Duke McCall the night before.

“What are you talking about? Who shot at you?” asked Jack as his hands clenched into fists.

“Yeah, who shot at you?” asked Davey as his eyes flashed angrily.

Victoria standing quietly by the side of the bed spoke up, “Gentlemen, please don’t get Miss Weston all worked up. She needs her rest. How about if I get some coffee while she explains everything to you.”

“Thank you Mrs. Barkley” said Sue as she rubbed her forehead gingerly and then gestured to the two chairs for Jack and Davey to sit in while she explained.

As Victoria walked by Heath to the door, Sue saw the expression of shame on his face and how Heath wouldn’t meet her eyes. “What is that all about?” thought Sue as she watched Nick enter the room as Victoria was leaving and gave a small shake of her head as she walked by.

“Heath. Jack. Thought I’d check in on the patient to make sure she didn’t escape this morning.” teased Nick with a smile at Sue who scowled at Nick as the men chuckled.

Jack shook Nick’s hand, “Nick Barkley, meet Davey Hinton, our wrangler.”

“Pleasure.”

“Nice to meet you, Mr. Barkley.” said Davey softly as he shook Nick’s hand.

“Nick, Sue was just going to explain to us what happened on the mountain.” Heath said as he glanced at his brother.

“Looks like I’m just in time then.” said Nick as smiled at Heath and took a seat at the foot of the bed.

The men listened in on Sue’s tale of her rise and consequent fall down the mountain. All were angered that someone could have killed her.

“Do you want me to go up there and look around for tracks, boss?” asked Davey.

Heath sighed, “Unfortunately, it rained in the mountains last night and the tracks will have been washed away.”

Sue smiled at the concerned cowboys, “I’ll know the track of that horse when I see it. I did find something though. Heath, can you get my vest over there?”

Heath walked to the chair where Sue’s vest lay waiting to be cleaned. Retrieving the item, he handed it to her and watched with the others as she pulled out a stub of a cigar and a cartridge. Handing them to Jack, she explained. “These were by the place where he knelt to take the shot.”

“That’s not much to go on boss.” said Jack sadly. “These are pretty common items. A lot of men smoke these cigars and use 44s.”

“Yeah, probably won’t help much.” agreed Heath as Davey shook his head and looked at the items.

“I went to town to bring Sheriff Madden out here to see you, but he wasn’t in town. When he comes out, we can show him these items.” explained Nick as Victoria walked in with a tray.

“I’ll let you finish your visit, but I’m afraid I can’t allow it too much longer as Miss Weston does need her rest.” said Victoria smiling at her patient who had a look of misery on her face from the thought of bed rest for the day.

“Thank you, Mrs. Barkley.” murmured Sue as Victoria left.

After they had drank their coffee and Sue sipped water, she advised Jack of what she would like completed around the ranch the next couple of days.

“Okay, boss. Davey’s gonna leave tomorrow to meet the rest of the men on the trail. Oh, Heath, we have some of your cattle on our range. We noticed a fence was down this morning.” stated Jack as he and Davey stood up to leave.

Heath also stood up, “I’ll get a crew over there to move them back to our ranch and restring the fence again.”

“Bye, Boss. Do you want some help Heath?” asked Davey as he and Jack walked to the door.

“Sure, lets get going. Sue, I’ll see you later.” said Heath as he walked out the door.

Nick watched as the look on Sue’s face darkened as she watched Heath leave the room. Trying to come up in her mind for the reason for the look of shame on his face when Victoria was in the room.

“Sue, are you feeling better?” asked Nick softly.

“Huh?”

“I asked if you were feeling better.”

“Yea, thanks Nick. I’d feel a whole lot better if I could leave this bed,” smiled Sue.

Nick laughed, “I know exactly what you mean. Sue, how long have you known Heath?”

“About six years now, give or take a few weeks. I offered him a job on our ranch when I first met him.”

“So, how long did he work for you?” asked Nick offhandedly.

Sue gazed at Nick and quietly spoke, “He worked for us for about four years. He’s a great asset on any ranch and he’s wonderful with horses. Why don’t you ask Heath these questions, Nick?”

Nick flushed, “I was just trying to make conversation.”

“If you were just trying to make conversation, you’d be asking questions about my ranch here, my ranch in Texas or me. Not my relationship with your brother.” said Sue firmly.

“You don’t have to get all huffy about it. I just thought.” Nick stopped as he stood up.

“You thought what, Nick?” inquired Sue curiously.

“I’m not sure he’d tell me if I did ask.” admitted Nick.

Sue nodded in agreement. “He probably won’t Nick. Heath needs to feel he’s completely safe and he can completely trust the other person before he opens up to anyone. He doesn’t like to discuss some things.”

“What kind of things?” asked Nick with a hopeful expression.

“You have to learn what you want from Heath. I won’t break any confidences that I have with him, Nick.” sighed Sue wearily.

“I just thought maybe you could help me get him settled in more here. You’re such a good friend, I’d think ya’d want him to be happy.” said Nick frustrated at the lack of knowledge she was sharing.

“Well, you’re his brother! Don’t you want him to be happy here?” snapped Sue angrily.

“Of course I do!” shouted Nick. “What kind of question is that?”

“Well, when you come in here asking all these questions, what did you think I’d think. If you love him, you’d ask him yourself instead of trying to weasel the information out of me!” shouted Sue as her face grimaced from the pounding in her head.

“What is going on in here!” asked Victoria firmly as she looked at Nick and Sue.

Sue winced, “Sorry, Mrs. Barkley. Just a little misunderstanding.”

“Sorry, Mother. I was just leaving.” said Nick as he gave her a kiss on the cheek and left the room.

“Are you okay, Miss Weston” asked Victoria concerned at the paleness of her face.

“I’m fine. My head is just throbbing a little and my shoulder hurts some.” admitted Sue.

“How about some laudanum? That will help with the pain.”

“No, thanks! That stuff knocks me out.” shivered Sue. “I can handle the pain for now. I think I’ll take a little nap.”

Victoria smiled as she gazed at the lovely young woman, “Anytime, Miss Weston. I’ll check on you in a few hours. Get some rest and I’ll keep all your admirers away for the afternoon.”

Sue chuckled as she pulled the covers up to her chin and closed her eyes, “Thank you, Mrs. Barkley.”

Chapter 40

Barrett was among the crew assigned to fix the fence and round up the cattle along with Duke McCall and Scotty.

As the group of men rode to the fence, Barrett watched as Davey, Heath and Jack conversed back and forth. It became clear to Barrett that this was to be another item that Travis had not counted on, Heath’s friendship and past history with the boss and crew at the neighboring ranch.

Barrett grinned as he pictured Travis’ reaction to this news. “Of course, he’ll probably come up with someway to use this after he simmers down.” thought Barrett.

“What’s so funny?” whispered Scotty as they brought up the rear.

“Nuthin. I was just thinking of the upcoming festival and all those beauties I was gonna be dancing with.” whispered Barrett

“Taking anyone in particular?”

“Haven’t decided yet.” said Barrett as he saw they had reached the fence he had taken down.

“Barrett, you and Scotty stay here and get started on the fence. We’re gonna push the cattle back.” said Heath as he turned Charger and rode onto the Weston range.

The look of hatred on Barrett’s face was not missed by Davey Hinton as he frowned and turned his horse to follow Heath, Jack and Duke.

The four cowboys gathered the cattle as their experienced cutting horses made short work of the job. Bunching them together, they herded them towards Barkley range.

“Duke, we’ll have to check the rest of the fenceline to make sure no other sections are down.” stated Heath as they brought the cattle back on their side.

“Sure, Heath. You want Barrett and Scotty to do it?” asked Duke as he watched the two men in question restring the wire behind the cattle.

“No. I’m gonna ride it with Jack and Davey. You and the men can go back to the ranch after the fence is done.”

“Okay Heath. I’ll make sure they get this done proper this time.” grinned Duke before Heath rode off with his friends.

Barrett watched as the trio rode off down the fenceline. “Who are those guys with the boss?” asked Barrett innocently, even though he knew who they were and why they had been to the mansion.

“They’re part of the new neighbor’s crew.” explained Duke as he wondered why Barrett was asking. Duke had a suspicion that Barrett didn’t like Heath at all.

Scotty nodded as he nailed the wire in place. “I heard someone bought the Henderson ranch. That’s a real nice place there.”

“Yeah, it sure is. Too bad the Barkleys couldn’t have bought it. That place would have been a great addition to their ranch.” said Barrett as he and Scotty got back to their work. “We’ll have this completed in no time, Duke.”

Duke frowned as he watched Barrett work wondering if Barrett was up to something. “He’s just making conversation.” thought Duke.

When Barrett and Scotty completed their job, Duke dismissed them for the rest of the day.

“I’m going to town, I got an errand to run.” said Barrett as he turned his horse towards town.

“He sure is in a hurry.” stated Duke as they watched Barrett galloping away.

“Yeah, I think he figured out who he’s gonna ask to the dance.” advised Scotty as he and the boss headed back to the bunkhouse.

As they dismounted in front of the barn, they were met by Nick, “Duke, have you seen Heath?”

Duke nodded, “Good job Scotty. You’re off for the rest of the day.”

“Okay, thanks!” said Scotty as he left Duke with Nick.

“Heath’s riding the fenceline with Jack and Davey to see if any other sections are down.” explained Duke.

“Did he say what time he’d be back?”

“No, he didn’t.”

“Okay. Thanks for taking care of that fence.” said Nick as he clapped Duke on the back and walked to the house.

Chapter 41

The sun was starting to set when Sue Weston opened her eyes that afternoon to see Charity Jones quietly reading as she sat in a chair by the bed.

“No missionary work today?” asked Sue as she rubbed the sleep from her eyes.

“Just playing nurse for a while” teased Charity. “I see that Jack can’t leave you alone for one night.”

Sue smiled as she struggled to sit up against the headboard, closing her eyes when the room started to spin. Charity helped by propping up some pillows behind her and helping her move.

“You okay?” asked Charity with concern when Sue opened her eyes again.

“Doc says I may have dizzy spells for a little while. Nothing I haven’t had before.” reassured Sue. “How long have you been here?”

“A couple of hours. Mrs. Barkley said it was okay for me to sit here as long as I didn’t disturb you. I would have been out sooner but I stayed at the orphanage last night.” explained Charity looking guilty.

“It’s okay, Charity. Life doesn’t stop just cause some someone takes a tumble. I’m happy to see you, but don’t feel obligated.”

“Sorry, it’s just my nature.” grinned Charity.

Sue laughed as Audra came into the room, “Hi Miss Weston. How are you feeling?’

“I’d feel better if you call me Sue.”

“That’s fine with me, Sue and you can call me Audra. Can I get you anything?” asked Audra.

“No, thanks. Have you seen Heath around Audra?” inquired Sue watching as sadness flitted across Audra’s face.

“He went out to check the fenceline for other breaks with your foreman.” advised Audra. “He’ll be back later on this evening.”

“Well, so much for seeing Jack here today.” sighed Charity as Sue and Audra giggled.

“How is the festival coming?” asked Sue.

Sue listened as Audra and Charity told her of the progress the committee was making. They described the different activities that were to take place as well as the dance.

“I hope you’ll be able to make it Sue. It’ll be a good time for you to meet other people from the community.” smiled Audra.

“Sue, do you think you’ll be up to it?” inquired Charity.

“Well, I may not be able to dance but I can certainly come and meet people.” Sue pointed out to her friend.

“Has anyone asked to escort you? I’m hoping that Nick will ask you.” said Audra sweetly.

“Nick!” exclaimed Sue. “I don’t need an escort.”

Charity laughed, “Suzanne, you know that a young lady should be escorted to a dance. It is only proper.”

“I can have Davey escort me.” smiled Sue as Charity rolled her eyes.

“Who’s Davey?” asked Audra

“Davey’s her wrangler.” explained Charity. “Maybe he’s already got a date, did you think of that.”

“Charity! He just got here this morning, how can he have a date already?”

“Maybe he meets people quickly.” snickered Charity as Audra and Sue joined her.

Jarrod hearing the laughter from the guest room stopped on the way to his room. “Good afternoon Ladies. How are we today, Miss Weston?”

“Just fine and please call me Sue, Mr. Barkley.”

“Only if you call me Jarrod.” smiled Jarrod

“Jarrod, Charity and I were explaining to Sue that she needs an escort for the dance at the festival. Could you escort her?” asked Audra as Sue’s mouth dropped.

“Audra, I can get my own date if I need one, which I don’t!” exclaimed Sue as Jarrod chuckled.

“I think little sister, Sue is quite capable of that herself. Besides, I already am escorting a young lady.” apologized Jarrod. “However, perhaps another time.”

Jarrod bowed to the ladies and walked to his room with Audra and Charity’s giggling after Sue’s shocked exclamation “What! I have to wear a dress too?”

“That poor girl will never be the same after Audra gets through with her.” thought Jarrod as he shut the door to his room.

Chapter 42

Jarrod walked into the study and found Nick holding a glass in his hand and looking out the window towards the horizon. Jarrod poured a drink for himself and went to stand by his brother in his silent vigil.

“Want to talk about it Nick?” asked Jarrod quietly.

Nick sighed and sipped his drink, his eyes never leaving the window “No.”

“What are you looking for?”

“Heath.”

“He’s riding the fenceline, Nick.”

“I know that. I’m watching to make sure he comes home.”

Jarrod frowned as he glanced at Nick, “What are you talking about?”

Nick ran his hand through his hair and turned to face Jarrod with a haunted look in his hazel eyes, “What if he decides he doesn’t want to stay here? Do you know Sue Weston has known him longer than his own family? She’s known him six years! What if he feels so comfortable with them, that he leaves.”

Jarrod’s stomach turned at the thought of Heath leaving and the look in Nick’s eyes. “You’re right. She has known him longer due circumstances out of our control. Heath’s very lucky to have her and the others as his friends. But Nick, that doesn’t mean he’s gonna leave.”

“I can’t lose him now, Jarrod. I don’t know what to do to make him stay!” whispered Nick as he returned to his vigil.

“I wish I could tell you something to make this pain go away, but I can’t. I’m as powerless as you in this situation. We need to make Heath see that we love him and want him to stay, no matter what.”

Jarrod put his arm around his brother’s shoulders as Nick nodded and swallowed the lump in this throat.

“I don’t know about you but I’m not giving up my brother without a fight, Nick!” Jarrod stated firmly.

Nick and Jarrod turned as they heard their Mother add, “And I’m not giving up my son, no matter how hard headed he may be!”

Victoria accepted the glass of sherry Nick handed her and sat on the chair. She waited until Jarrod and Nick had sat on the couch before she spoke.

“Boys, I think we may need the help of an ally in this battle we are about to embark on.” stated Victoria.

“What do you mean, Mother?” asked Nick.

Jarrod inquired, “Do you mean keeping Heath here as the battle?”

Victoria smiled, “Yes, that is what I mean. I love Heath and won’t let him leave.”

Nick nodded, “Yeah, but if he wants to leave, we can’t stop him. He’s a grown man, Mother! Besides, what ally are you talking about?”

“Suzanne Weston.”

“What!” exclaimed Nick as he stood up. “I tried to get her to talk about Heath, but she said she wouldn’t break any of his confidences.”

Jarrod looked at Nick, “Were you asking her questions about Heath?”

“Yea and she didn’t like it at all!”

Jarrod chuckled, “Nick, of course she’s not gonna like it! She’s very protective of her friends. Didn’t you notice that?”

Nick blushed, “I was just trying to come up with some way of helping Heath.”

Victoria smiled and gestured for Nick to sit. When he had sat again, she continued, “Nick, we’re not going to cross examine Miss Weston regarding Heath. I’m going to lay it on the line for her and ask for her assistance.”

“I don’t know, Mother.” said Nick hesitantly. “What if she tells Heath what we’re doing?”

Jarrod smiled and shook his head, “He wouldn’t like that one bit.”

“Miss Weston is the type of person who would do whatever she could for her friends. I think she’d want Heath to be happy. Besides, all she can do is say no.”

“I think you should get ready for the yelling after you ask her, Mother.” snorted Nick as Jarrod laughed.

“No, Nick. I think Miss Weston is going to see how it will be to face a determined lioness guarding her cubs.” said Jarrod smiling as he watched hope spread across the face of his brother.

Chapter 43

John Travis sat in his sparsely furnished, drab colored living room with a glass of brandy in his hand, replaying his meeting with his silent partner, Barrett.

“Barrett, were you able to find out anything?” inquired John as he poured them a drink.

“Yep. Dr. Merar was out to the house and Scotty asked Miss Audra about it.”

replied Barrett as he took a drink.

“And.” stated Travis as he fought down the annoyance at how Barrett seemed to be delaying his delivery of the news.

“Seems their new neighbor took a tumble from her horse. Miss Audra said she was staying with them a couple of days since her own housekeeper was out of town. Said she wasn’t hurt bad.”

“Ha! I knew something had happened. That foreman of hers is really protective of her, ain’t he.”

“Yeah and you’ll never guess in a million years what else I found out.” smirked Barrett as a frown appeared on Travis’ face.

“Seems the bastard is a friend of Miss Weston’s and her ranch crew from way back in Texas. Hell, they didn’t even raise a fuss at the Barkley cattle on their range. Just helped push them back and then rode fenceline with Heath to make sure there were no other breaks.”

Barrett watched as Travis’ blue eyes turned to ice and a chill was sent down his spine. The look on his face was of pure hatred and Barrett’s instincts told him in his gut what would happen if he ever crossed this man.

Travis sipped his drink as his mind churned with this new information. The bastard’s a friend of Miss Weston! What dumb luck! Hell, why didn’t she just die from the fall on the mountainside. Things were complicated before. Now this! Somebody must be watching out for this girl!

Barrett waited for the fireworks he had imagined would take place when he had initially thought of telling Travis of the news. None appeared, deadly silence and icy thoughts were the only things that permeated the air in the room.

Unable to wait any longer, Barrett said, “This is gonna change everything now.”

Travis sighed as his thoughts were interrupted by the droll of Barrett’s voice proclaiming the obvious. ‘Good thing I got enough brains for both of us’ thought Travis.

“Well, it does appear to put another playing piece on the board, doesn’t it?” smiled Travis watching confusion show on Barrett’s face.

“What board?”

“Barrett, you have to think of these things as games. That way you can detach yourself from your emotions and see the whole playing field as things really lay. When you move a pawn on the board, there are ramifications to the rest of the board. Strategies need to be thought out thoroughly, pieces need to be maneuvered into place and then, the attack can proceed.”

Barrett shook his head as he stood and grabbed his hat. “I don’t like games other than poker. I’ll keep my ears and eyes open and let you know what I find out.”

Travis watched the man leave, mumbling “You do that Barrett, you do that.”

Holding the glass to his forehead to stem the throbbing that was starting, Travis closed his eyes to envision his playing board, the town of Stockton, the two neighboring ranches and the mountains behind the one ranch that held the riches that would make him a wealthy man. He was the only one who knew of it, well there had been one other person, but he didn’t have to worry about him anymore.

If Abe Henderson had put his energy into building up his ranch and utilizing the grazing areas in the mountain, instead of the jealously he had directed at the Tom Barkley, he’d have found out what Travis knew.

Frowning, Travis realized he’d made a mistake when he took the opportunity the shot had provided. It seemed like a good idea at the time, but he should have thought it out more. Now Miss Weston will be more cautious. That foreman of hers probably won’t let her leave unescorted now and will be watching everything all the more.

A chuckle rose from within the depths of Travis’ dark soul until it erupted from his lips. “Waiting is so wearing on a person’s nerves! It causes jumpiness, itchy trigger fingers, loss of sleep and emotional trauma. Let the games begin!!”

Chapter 44

Sue Weston sighed as she looked out the window over the Barkley ranch. “What a beautiful place” she thought smiling as she observed the colt frolicking in the corral under the watchful eye of his mother as the sun’s rays painted the horizon with colors of red and orange. She was startled by a knock at the door and its opening, sitting in the chair by the window, she blushed as she saw the frown on Mrs. Barkley’s face.

“Miss Weston, I see you were able to make your way out of bed.” said Victoria with a smile at the guilty look on her guest’s face.

“I was never one for laying around, Mrs. Barkley.” stammered Sue. “I needed a change of view.”

Victoria smiled, a while back Heath had told her almost the same thing when he received a concussion from flying into the side of the corral courtesy of a bronc he was busting. She placed a silver tray with the tea and cookies on the table, taking a seat opposite the young woman.

Pouring them some tea, Victoria smiled, “You’re looking much better. Did you have a nice visit with Charity this afternoon?”

“Yes, thank you Mrs. Barkley.”

“Please call me Victoria. Mrs. Barkley seems so formal. We’re neighbors and I hope we can be friends also.”

Sue smiled and nodded her head, “Only if you call me Sue. It would be an honor to consider you as my friend, Victoria.”

Victoria glanced out the window to the corral, “That’s our new colt, Sir Lucky. Heath, Duke and Audra delivered him. He was a breech. It was lucky for him and us that Heath knew how to handle it.”

“Heath’s knowledge and way with horses has always awed me.” admitted Sue as she watched the colt. “Sir Lucky is a beauty and has great lines. He shows a lot of promise for your horse operations.”

“I think that’s what Nick and Heath were counting on. I hear things are coming along well at your ranch, too.”

Sue grinned, “It looks promising. We still have a lot of work to do, but once the crew gets here we can move at a faster pace. They should be here mid week.”

“Is your whole crew coming from Texas?” inquired Victoria.

Sue shook her head and smiled, “No, not all of them. Some moved onto other jobs and some have decided to try to build their own place. I hope they succeed. There’s nothing like planting something and watching it grow or seeing all of your hard work go towards building something. We have five more men coming and Davey’s gonna meet them on the trail.”

Victoria smiled and placed her hand on Sue’s, “Watching your dreams come to fruition is a wondrous and marvelous experience. I had the same experience with my husband as we were building our future.”

“Well, I experience it with my crew who are also my family. I haven’t got any husband prospect in the near future.” snickered Sue as she sipped her tea.

“Never say never, Sue” laughed Victoria “You never know what will happen in the future, none of us do.”

“Have you been talking to Jack?” asked Sue.

“No, why?” puzzled Victoria as she watched the amusement light up her guest’s emerald eyes.

“I said almost the same thing to him on the way to Stockton. Now look at him and Charity.” groaned Sue.

Victoria laughed and was mesmerized by the confidence and poise this young lady carried with her. It had to take a strong woman to lead a team of men, earn their respect and their loyalty. From Heath’s description of her and his friends on her crew, Victoria knew she carried deeply about all those around her.

“Are you planning on raising horses, Sue? I don’t think you’ve told us what your plans for the ranch are.”

“I don’t know if I should divulge my secrets to the competition.” teased Sue as Victoria laughed.

“Mostly we run cattle and grow some grain. We’ve some horses but I’m not figuring on venturing too deep into that market. My wrangler, Davey, is a great judge of horseflesh. He’s as good as Heath and when he sees an animal that he feels would benefit us, he takes the initiative and buys it. I let him run it as he sees fit and it keeps him out of trouble.”

Sue listened as Victoria recounted some of her memories with her husband in the early days of the ranch. As Victoria spoke, Sue could see in her mind’s eye the struggles the two had faced together. They had shared a common goal and were bonded together by that goal, the love of each other and their family. His death had prematurely ended the bonding, but not the love they shared for each other.

“When Heath first came to us, I knew he was Tom’s son without a doubt. Heath is a loving and wonderful man. Our family feels complete with him here.” said Victoria.

Sue smiled, “Yes, he’s one of a kind.”

Victoria looked into her eyes and stated, “Nick’s afraid he’s going to leave because he feels more comfortable with you and your men. Sue, I need your help to understand something about Heath.”

Frowning, Sue glanced at Victoria, “I already told Nick that I wouldn’t break any confidences I have with Heath.”

“I would never ask you to break any confidence you have with him. But Heath keeps pushing us away for some reason. We love him but he told Nick he’s not good enough to be my son.” said Victoria softly watching darkness spread across Sue’s face.

Swallowing and looking out the window, Sue rubbed her eyes with her hand. Gaining control of her voice, she responded softly. “Heath is a very special person. I’ve never met a braver individual in my life. His life hasn’t been easy, Victoria. His mother should have told you about him.”

“Sue, I love him as if he were my own son and I don’t want to lose him either.”

stated Victoria softly

Sue sighed, “I can see the love you have for Heath in your eyes when you speak his name. Heath’s a very proud and stubborn man but sometimes he don’t use the sense the good lord gave him.”

“I think a lot of us are that way.” smiled Victoria.

Grinning back, Sue said, “I’ll speak to him to see what’s going through that mind of his, Victoria. I’ve an inkling of why he may think something like that.”

“Thank you! We appreciate anything that you can do to help convince Heath this is where he should be.”

Sue nodded, “I can’t make any promises though. Heath’s his own man and will do what he feels is right for him.”

Victoria rose from her seat, walked over and gave a startled Sue a hug and a kiss on the cheek, “All Barkley men are too stubborn for their own good.”

Sue laughed as Victoria picked up the tray, winked and walked down to the kitchen.

Sue turned her gaze to the window, wondering at the feeling of happiness she had experienced when Victoria had given her a hug and kiss on the cheek. “That must be how it feels to be loved by a mother.”

Chapter 45

Heath arrived home after supper and was grooming Charger in the barn when Nick entered, “Hi Heath. Silas is keeping your supper warm for ya’. Any other sections of the fence down?”

Heath paused and glanced at his brother before he continued using the curry brush, replied softly, “No, everything’s fine Nick. Sorry, for what happened at breakfast.”

“I’m sorry too, Heath. I shouldn’t have growled at you like that. Thanks for taking care of that fence today.” Nick smiled “We wouldn’t want our new neighbor thinking we were invading her ranch, now would we?”

“I don’t think you have to worry about that, Nick” chuckled Heath as he put the brush away and shut the door on Charger’s stall.

Nick walked with Heath up to the house, “You know Heath, anytime you need to talk or anything, I’m a good listener. That’s what brothers are for.”

Heath stopped and looked at Nick in shock at his remark and gentle tone of voice.

Nick looked at Heath with puzzlement, “What?”

“I didn’t know you were a good listener.” said Heath innocently with a wide eyed stare.

Putting on an offended look, Nick complained, “Heath, you can’t believe everything that our brother Jarrod says. He just thinks I don’t listen to him when I actually listen to everything he says. I just pretend to ignore him. It’s a lot of fun!”

Heath laughed and continued walking, “I don’t think you better let Jarrod hear that.”

“That’ll be our secret, little brother.” whispered Nick as they entered the foyer.

Victoria was coming from the kitchen and saw the two men enter, “Oh Heath. We missed you at supper, but Silas has a plate he’s keeping warm for you.”

Heath nodded and smiled slightly, “Thanks. I’m gonna wash up.”

Smiling, Victoria nodded, “Take your time, Heath. Oh, Miss Weston has been asking for you. I told her I’d tell you as soon as you got home. Now if you boys will excuse me, I have to help Audra decide which dress she’s wearing to the festival.”

Heath watched his stepmother walk up the stairs. He couldn’t keep from feeling giddy and warm inside at her happiness of seeing him when he arrived home. The only other time he had that same feeling was when his own mother would greet him at the door. “How can she so willingly accept me when I have so many reservations and fears” thought Heath with a frown.

Watching the frown form on Heath’s face, Nick slapped his brother on the back, “Heath, I don’t think we’ll see the ladies of the house for the rest of the evening, heck, maybe even for a couple days. Audra’s got enough dresses to outfit all of the women in the state of California.”

Heath grinned at Nick’s remarks. “Well, I better eat and wash up before I visit Sue. Do you wanna see her with me?”

“No, I’m gonna challenge Jarrod to a game of pool. I feel lucky tonight.” stated Nick as he turned to walk to the study. “After you’re through visiting, you can play the winner – ME!”

Chuckling, Heath shook his head as he headed to the kitchen to wash and eat his supper.

Silas smiled when Heath entered, “Mr. Heath, I kept your supper warm for ya’.”

Heath smiled as he greeted the old black butler and washed his hands at the sink, “Silas, you don’t have to call me Mister. Heath’s just fine.”

Silas shook his head as he set the plate on the table before the hungry cowboy, “Now ya knows I can’t do that, Mr. Heath. We discussed this before.”

Heath shook his head and grinned, “I think we have the same discussion everyday, Mr. Silas. How was your day?”

“It was fine, Mr. Heath. Your friend’s doing much better.” Silas informed Heath as he drank his milk.

“That’s good. I was really worried about her.” admitted Heath.

Silas leaned over and whispered, “I heard Miss Audra and Miss Charity Jones were tryin’ ta convince her to wear a dress to the festival dance.”

Heath chuckled and whispered back, “Do you think it worked?”

Silas shook his head as he cleared the table and laughed, “No.”

Heath laughed and smiled, “Thanks for supper, Mr. Silas. I better clean up before I visit Sue. Good night.”

“Night, Mr. Heath.” said Silas smiling as Heath walked up the backstairs to his room.

Feeling clean and refreshed, Heath knocked and entered the guest room when Sue called out.

“Hi stranger.” said Sue from where she was propped up against the headboard.

“Hi yourself. I hear you’re feeling better.” smiled Heath as he sat on the edge of the bed.

“I’m feeling a whole lot better than yesterday, but not as good as I will feel tomorrow. Did you get your cows off my range?” teased Sue.

“Yes, our beeves are back on their home range. Can I get you anything?” asked Heath with a grin.

“No, you can’t get me anything but you can tell me something.” Sue said softly.

“What can I tell you?” asked Heath puzzled.

“What’s going on between you and your stepmother?” asked Sue as she watched the blush spread on Heath’s face.

“What do you mean?” mumbled Heath lowering his eyes.

Sue took his chin, raised his face, looked him in the eye and stated firmly, “Boy howdy Heath! I am not blind, just mildly concussed.”

Chapter 46

“I know you’re not blind. I’m just not sure what you mean.” said Heath evasively.

“Heath, we can do this the hard way or the easy way.” Sue informed Heath with a sigh.

“Everything’s okay, why would you think it wasn’t.”

‘The hard way’ thought Sue and softly said, “When Mrs. Barkley was in the room this morning, why did I see that look on your face, Heath? What’s wrong?”

Heath took a shaky breath, “I called Mrs. Barkley, Mother.”

“What’s wrong with that?” smiled Sue.

“I don’t have the right to call her that. I’m just her husband’s mistake. Someone who grew up on the wrong side of the tracks and who doesn’t know anything about the side he’s on now.”

“Heath, has anyone of the Barkleys insinuated that? Has Mrs. Barkley said anything like that?”

“No, but you don’t understand.” stated Heath.

Looking into his crystal blue eyes, Sue calmly stated, “I’ve never judged you because of your birth. I know there are people that have, but you have to rise above those people! You’re far better than them!”

“The Barkleys are respected and looked up to throughout this community. I don’t think I’ll ever truly fit in with them and all that is expected of being a Barkley.” explained Heath.

Sue nodded in empathy towards her friend, “I can’t imagine how difficult this has been for you. You must have been so angry when you found out about Tom Barkley being your father. Just look at what they had growing up. You and your mother could barely eek out a living even with you working.”

“I was angry when I arrived here.” admitted Heath. “But then I got to know them.”

“And are you still angry now?”

“I’ve learned to deal with the anger. It’s a waste of energy since I can’t change the past and make everything different. I feel out of place here.”

Sue held his hand, “Heath, I think you’re feeling overwhelmed, not out of place. Those are two different feelings. All this is different from what you’re used to. Not in terms of the ranch work, you’ve always known that. I mean in terms of having to learn how to deal with a family, all of the feelings and thoughts that come with a family. Also, trying to find your place in this new family not as a child but as a man! You’ve been on your own for a lot of years and now all of a sudden you have the feelings of a whole family to consider before your own. You just have to be yourself and everything will work out in time.”

Heath frowned as he considered Sue’s opinion and instinctively felt what she said was right. “I don’t know, Sue.”

“Heath, remember that time your mama came to visit you in Texas. I was impressed by her. She was a loving, vivacious and genuine person.”

“She really liked you and all of the crew, Sue.”

“You were lucky to have a wonderful mother growing up. The Barkleys could have tossed you out on your ears when you came here, but they didn’t. Heck, they could have tied everything up in court for years with their money, but they didn’t.”

“Sue, I know that but..”

“Heath, let me finish. I think they didn’t because to them you’re family. You’re their flesh and blood! Because of the man you are, they chose to give you love and acceptance! I will admit though from what you said, it seemed to take Nick a while to warm up to you.”

Heath smiled as she continued, “Heath, you’re blessed with a chance to have the love of two mothers in your lifetime, not just one. I’d give anything to have had a mother growing up and to know that feeling. I can’t believe you’re gonna throw this chance away!”

“Sue, but my mother was not married to my father. Mrs. Barkley has no blood tie to me.”

“Who cares! Heath, my stepmother was married to my father and I wouldn’t wish her on my worst enemy. I saw the love and respect you have for the Barkleys when you were describing them to me and Jack. It shines out of your eyes like a beacon and you can see it in theirs too.”

“I never said I didn’t love and respect Mrs. Barkley or the others.”

“Then, what’s the problem? I don’t understand why you drag yourself down like this. You’re a good man Heath. A man anyone should be lucky to call friend, brother or son.”

“I’m guess I’m afraid Sue. Afraid of doing something wrong, saying the wrong thing or what if they don’t approve of what’s in my past.”

“Heath, your life experiences in the past, the love of your mother, Hannah, your Aunt Rachel and the war among other things have all made you the man you are today. I know your past has been difficult, but its not as if you’re not a criminal or anything like that. When the time is right, you’ll be able to share these things with your family, too.”

Sue paused, placed her hand on his cheek and looked into Heath’s blue eyes, “This family accepts you for who you are, not for what you have or haven’t done in the past. They know you’re a good person. Open your heart and you’ll find it’s a lot easier to accept their love rather than shutting it out.”

Heath sighed, “How is it you always set me on the right path? I’m a lucky man to have a friend like you.”

“Don’t I know it, Heath Barkley! I’m exhausted! It’s hard work being a friend to you, so I better get ready to go to sleep before your MOTHER comes back in here and gives me that look.”

Heath chuckled and kissed his friend on the cheek, “You’re right, I shouldn’t be throwing away this chance.”

“Anytime you need your ears boxed, you come see me now ya’ hear.” snickered Sue as she closed her eyes emotionally and physically drained.

Heath sat by his friend, watching her and thinking on her words as Sue’s even breathing indicated she was asleep, Heath kissed her on the forehead and smiled, “Thank you, Miss Weston.”

Heath sighed and straightened the blanket covering her as Victoria entered the room.

“Heath, I didn’t mean to interrupt. I guess I’m too late to see if Sue needed anything before I went to bed.” said Victoria as she glanced at the sleeping young lady and then at Heath.

Heath smiled, “She was pretty tired after all that boxing she had to do.”

“Boxing?” asked Victoria with a puzzled look.

Heath chuckled, walked towards his stepmother and wrapped her in a big hug, “The future may not be all rosy and smooth sailing, but I love you and would consider it a great honor for you to be my mother.”

Victoria clung to Heath and cried softly as her heart was bursting with love, “I’m the one who’s honored to have you as my son.”

Chapter 47

Dr. Merar had given Jack Franklin permission to take Sue to her home to finish mending on Sunday afternoon. Sue smiled as she thought back on her breakfast with the Barkleys that morning. A warm feeling came over her when Heath addressed Victoria as mother after he had walked Sue into the dining room.

The faces of the family outshone everything in sight at the endearment Heath had used. Sue winked at Victoria as she took her place by Heath at the table. The topics of conversation were steady and varied throughout the meal as everyone at the table enjoyed the feast Silas had prepared.

Heath said adamantly, “Nick, I’m telling you no one’s ever been able to ride Satan without Sue on his back with them.”

“Oh come on now Heath! Horses aren’t that particular.” gwaffed Nick as Sue stifled a laugh.

“When I have my arm out of this sling, I’ll bring Satan over and then we’ll see if you’re right about horses not being particular.” smiled Sue as she looked into the hazel eyes and added, “Victoria, when I do come over you should invite Dr. Merar for lunch, just in case.”

“What?” shouted Nick as the others at the table snickered.

“Of course, I’ll gladly pay for any damage incurred.” stated Sue.

“There’s not gonna be any damage. I’m not gonna ride him in the corral.” Nick informed Sue with a huff.

Sue looked at Nick, her green eyes dancing with merriment, “I was talking about the damage to you, Nick.”

Nick blushed as the rest of the family laughed.

Sue thoughts were interrupted as Jose came running to the porch where she sat, “Miss Sue! Miss Sue! The men are coming.”

“Thank you Jose!” said Sue as she stood and sat on the railing of the porch to watch the group of men heading up the road and dismounting in front of the house.

Sue rushed down the steps to greet the men with hugs and questions on their trip.

Davey smiled, “Hey boss, great to see you home again!”

“Davey, its great to be home.” smiled Sue. “I’m so happy to see everyone and to have you here with me. Davey, show the boys to the bunkhouse and the barn, then come up to the house for some lunch so we can catch up with each other. After that we can unload the wagon.”

The men followed Davey to the bunkhouse peppering him with questions regarding their boss’ condition.

“Davey, she looks worse than you said!” exclaimed Harold with a growl at the younger man as he stabled his horse.

Davey defended himself to the angry men, “I told ya’ she had a mild concussion and separated shoulder.”

“And the bandage around her head?” asked Pedro.

“It’s just some stitches, heck, we’ve all had that before.” explained Davey. “I didn’t think they were as big a deal as her concussion and shoulder.”

“Davey, it’s a big deal because it’s not the same as us having stitches.” said Hank quietly as Curly and Bill nodded. They felt the same as the others towards their boss.

“Boys, let’s cut Davey a little slack here. You know how his memory keeps failing him the older he gets.” snickered Curly as he walked out of the barn towards the bunkhouse with his personal effects as the other men laughed and followed suit.

“Very funny, guys!” Davey shouted as they walked away. “I should have left you back on the trail! I can’t believe I actually missed you people!”

Jack laughed as he heard Davey’s comments directed at the back of the others as he walked into the barn.

“Davey, they’re just kidding ya know.” stated Jack as he stabled his horse.

“Yeah I know, but I don’t like being the youngest of the crew. I feel like I have six older brothers picking on me. I’m gonna put a notice in the paper to see if we can hire someone younger than me.” said Davey as they walked to the house.

Jack chuckled and put his arm on his young wrangler’s shoulder, “I’ll run that request by the boss for ya’”

Davey rolled his eyes and smirked, “Gee, thanks for your support.”

Chapter 48

Maria had prepared a feast to celebrate the arrival of the men. After partaking in the banquet, Sue watched as the men helped Jose clear the table and then sat down with coffee in their cups.

Sue smiled as she watched them, her eyes dancing with merriment at the teasing going back and forth between the men. The camaraderie had been forged between them from hard work, toils and troubles. They watched each other’s backs like a mama bear watching over her cubs. These men, whose loyalty couldn’t be bought or sold, would go to the depths of hell for each other and her.

“Boss, when do we pick up the herd?” asked Harold. Harold was the quietest of all the men and the studious one. He would gnaw at a problem from all angles until he had figured it out.

Sue laughed, “Are you sure you old timers won’t need some rest before going back to work?”

The crew laughed at the long-standing joke between her and them. Sue was younger than the crew, except for Davey and she who was only a couple weeks older than him.

Bill, the father figure for the rest of the crew, shook his salt and pepper head and smirked. “Didn’t think you would let us off that easy, Boss.”

Sue chuckled and sipped her coffee as the men started spouted comments to her, “Yeah we could use a few more days of rest” “Lets take in some fishing” “Hey, we could visit the highlights of our new town.”

Sue, grinning, held up her hand, “Sorry boys, can’t spare you this week. How about if we pick up the Swenson herd tomorrow morning.”

Pedro, the dashing vaquero whose dark handsome features had caused many a maiden to swoon, smiled, “It is good to be back together again, boss.”

“It sure is, Pedro. I’ve missed you all.” stated Sue as she rose from the table. “How about if we unload the wagon and get that all taken care of.”

The men drank the rest of their coffee and rose to follow their boss as she opened the front door.

“Dammit!” they heard her exclaim as a thud and the retort of a shot was heard after Sue jumped out of the open doorway.

The men ran to the windows with guns drawn as Jack rushed to Sue’s side. Holding her hand against the side of her face, she lay on her side on the hardwood floor.

“Lemme see!” said Jack as he pried her hand away revealing some slivers from the doorframe embedded in her right cheek.

“Great! Just what I need another love scar from my secret admirer.” Sue whispered sarcastically as Jack started pulling out the slivers.

“You guys see anything?” called Jack to the others at the windows.

“No! I don’t even see a blade of grass moving.” shouted Curly, his hat pushed back revealing his bald head.

Jack closely inspected his boss’ cheek one last time for any other slivers before helping her to her feet. Sitting her at the table, Maria brought out the linament bottle and a towel.

“Miss Sue, are you okay?” asked Maria as she dabbed the liniment on her face.

Inhaling her breath when the liniment stung, Sue smiled “I’m fine Maria. Don’t worry. It seems worse than it is. Are you okay, Maria?”

“I am fine, Miss Sue. Just startled.” replied Maria.

When Maria finished her ministrations, she went back into the kitchen and refilled the coffee cups of the men who were now crowded around their boss.

“Jack, what’s going on? Why’s someone shooting at our boss?” asked Curly angrily.

Jack shook his head and replied softly, “I don’t know Curly. I thought maybe the first time, it was a mistake. Now we know its not.”

“Boss, I think we should go get the Sheriff and let him know what’s going on.” suggested Davey as the others voiced their agreement.

“Boys! Just settle down and take a seat.” sighed Sue as she waited for the men to settle down.

After the men had quieted and took a seat, Sue smiled, “I’m okay. Obviously, someone is just trying to scare me.”

“Sue, what if the next time it isn’t a warning!” exclaimed Jack with concern in his hazel eyes.

“Yeah, this is the second time! What if he gets tired of taking potshots?” asked Hank, a giant of a man, as he pounded his fist on the table angrily.

Sue nodded and agreed, “Let’s not fly off the handle. After we unload the wagon, we’ll take a run into Stockton and let Sheriff Madden know what’s going on.”

“Okay boss, but I don’t think you should go anywhere alone. One or more of us should be with you.” stated Harold as the others voiced their agreement with his plan.

“I’ll agree to that for now Harold, but we can’t run a ranch with one of you babysitting me all the time.” sighed Sue.

“We know that boss, but we’ll work something out. You’re our first concern.” said Jack as the others nodded.

“I can watch Miss Sue also.” informed Maria to the crew. “I know how to shoot and so does Jose.”

Pedro grinned, “Thank you Senora. That would be most helpful.”

“Harold, will you check outside? Go out the back and around the house. Holler if you need help.” stated Jack as Harold walked to the back door while the others looked out of the windows.

“I didn’t see anything.” Harold informed the others as he walked through the front door.

“Okay boys, let’s get the wagon unloaded and then we’ll go to Stockton.” said Sue as she walked out with her crew. “Maria, if you don’t want to stay here by yourself, you can come with us.”

Maria smiled, “It’s okay. I can take care of myself and Jose will be here.”

Sue nodded, “I wouldn’t blame you if you wanted to take your job back at the hotel until this is all settled.”

“No, we stay here.” Maria stated firmly as she walked back into the house.

Jack chuckled, “Boss, you sure know how to pick your employees.”

Watching the others unload the wagon, Sue nodded and looked at Jack with cold green eyes. “Yeah and when we catch this guy, he better hope they don’t get to him first.”

Chapter 49

The residents of Stockton glimpsed the small army, surrounding its queen on a black stallion, walking their horses up the street and stopping in front of the office of Sheriff Madden. The queen and the knight dismounted and tied their horses to the rail before heading inside. The pawns, alert and steadfast, sat their horses and watched the civilians around them. Ten minutes later the queen and the knight returned and climbed back on board their mounts.

“Boys, Jack and I are going to see Dr. Merar.” said Sue as she turned her horse towards the other end of town. “Go have a drink. Jack’ll get ya’ when its time to leave.”

The men looked at each other and Pedro spoke for them all, “We go with you boss. We’re not thirsty.”

Jack smiled and nodded as Sue sighed, “Fine with me boys.”

The small army moved as one cohesive unit with the knight in the lead and started down the street, bypassing all other buildings and stopping in front of Dr. Merar’s residence. Sue dismounted and tied Satan to the rail.

“I’ll be out in a little while.” smiled Sue as she knocked and walked inside when the door opened.

“Miss Weston, how nice to see you.” said Mrs. Merar as she led the patient into the examining room.

“Nice to see you too, Mrs. Merar.”

Dr. Merar entered the room and smiled. “How’s your shoulder feeling Miss Weston?”

“It’s fine Doc. Just a little sore is all.” stated Sue as Howard examined the shoulder. “How long do I have to use this sling?”

“You can start taking it off for short intervals of time. But you will find that your shoulder will take some time to completely heal. I have written down some exercises that I want you to do at home. Make sure you put the sling back on if you feel too uncomfortable.” explained Howard as he removed the bandage on her head.

“I will. Can the stitches come out today, Doc?”

“Any other dizzy spells?”

“Haven’t had one for a couple of days.” reported Sue

“Good. The stitches can come out as its healing quite nicely. Want to tell me what happened to your cheek?” said Howard softly as he watched the blush rise on her face.

“Door frame lept out and bit me.” said Sue

“Uh huh.” replied Howard “Don’t see that too often.”

“No, guess not. Maria put some linament on it for me. Nothing to worry about.” stated Sue with a smile.

“Stitches are out. Your cheek looks fine, but come back and see me if you have any problems.” smiled Howard.

“Sure Doc.” said Sue as she jumped down from the table and paid him. “Hope I don’t have to see you for a while, nothing personal.”

Howard laughed, “I, also, hope you have no need of my services for a long time.”

Sue nodded and headed outside to her crew. Looking at her guardians, she smiled knowing they were more like a bunch of mother hens. Tucking her sling into her saddlebags, she climbed aboard Satan.

“Boys, I have to meet with my attorney. His office is across from the saloon. Go have a drink while I’m in there.”

Harold shook his head, “Boss, one of us will have to go with you.”

Sue looked at the men, “No. This is private. You can see his door from the window of the saloon. Just watch for me to come out.”

“I don’t like it.” said Jack with a frown. “Why don’t I just tell Dan that you need him to come out to the ranch?”

Sue smiled and laughed, “Boys, thank you but I’m only going to be a short ways off. I’ll have Dan tell you when we’re done, okay?”

Begrudgingly, the men agreed. Jack and Hank tied their horses on either side of Satan and walked their boss to the door of the lawyer.

Hank sat on the bench outside Dan Baldwin’s office. “I’ll just wait here for you boss. The others can have a drink.”

Squeezing his thick forearm, Sue smiled and entered the building.

“Sue, I didn’t know you were going to be in town.” exclaimed Dan as he held out a chair for her.

“Hi Dan. How’s the family?” inquired Sue as she took off her hat.

“They’re wonderful. What can I do for you?”

“Well, I have a small problem.” said Sue as she took the coffee Dan had poured for her.

When Dan seated himself at his desk, he said. “What’s the problem?”

“I was shot at again today.”

“What!”

“My guess is he’s after the ranch. I imagine he thinks that because I’m a woman, I’ll scare easy.” chuckled Sue.

Dan nodded, “That could very well be.”

Sue smiled and said, “He doesn’t know me very well. I’ll never be scared off my ranch.”

“What can I do? Have you talked to Sheriff Madden?”

“I spoke with the sheriff earlier.” stated Sue. “He’s gonna take a ride out but there is really nothing he can do. We already checked and couldn’t find where he was hiding when he took the shot.”

“Do you know of any reason why someone would go to this extreme to get the ranch?” inquired Dan

“That’s the key that unlocks this whole puzzle. If I could figure that out, we’d be closer to finding out who it is.” frowned Sue. “But in the event that he gets tired of trying to scare me and decides to take matters further, I need some papers drawn up that will keep the ranch from falling into his hands.”

“I certainly hope he doesn’t take it any further. However, I’m not sure what we could put in the papers that would prevent his getting the ranch. You don’t know who it is that’s doing this and he could just buy it when it comes up for sale.” explained Dan.

Leaning forward in her chair, Sue smiled widely and explained to Dan what she wanted done as he listened to her with admiration.

“I’ll bring them out to the ranch tomorrow for you to sign.” said Dan as he stood and walked her to the door.

“We’re gonna be busy the next couple of days picking up the new herd. I’ll be in Saturday for the festival. We can meet and sign the papers then.” explained Sue as she shook his hand.

‘Sure, Sue. I’m looking forward to introducing you to my family.” said Dan as he looked up into the face of the giant that stood by his client.

“Hank, this is my attorney, Dan Baldwin.” Sue said as the men shook hands. “Dan, this is Hank Bardo.”

“Nice to meet you Mr. Bardo.” smiled Dan as he watched Hank’s face split open with a wide smile.

“Same to you Mr. Baldwin.” came a deep voice from the belly of the giant.

“Sue, I will see you on Saturday. You be careful now.” said Dan as he went back into his office.

Feeling a tap on her shoulder, Sue turned to see Hank squeezing the hand of John Travis and growling at him. “Can I do something for you, mister?”

Travis knees started buckling from the pain radiating up his arm.

“Hank, let him go.” stated Sue calmly watching the snake writhing in pain as Hank opened his hand.

“You could have broken my hand!” shouted Travis as he held the damaged limb as the ranch crew and the other saloon patrons came out to see what the ruckus was all about.

“Mr. Travis, Hank was just doing his job by watching out for his boss.” smiled Sue slightly. “What can I do for you.”

Travis flexed his hand and stated, “I was going to ask to escort you to the festival, Miss Weston.”

Untying Satan as the others followed suit, Sue mounted and looked down at the man on the boardwalk. “I told you before I don’t mix business with pleasure.”

Travis watched the group of them riding down the street and thought angrily of the girl that had been invading his dreams, “It’ll be my pleasure to watch you squirm when you realize you should’ve been nicer to me.”

Chapter 50

Duke McCall rode from Stockton towards the Barkley ranch, deep in thought and puzzling, over what the foreman of the neighboring ranch had told him when he stopped in the saloon for a beer.

Entering the swinging doors, Duke walked over to the bar and heard someone call his name, “Duke! How’s things?”

Turning towards the voice, Duke saw Jack Franklin sitting with a table of men by the window of the saloon. Walking over, Duke shook hands with the men as they were introduced by Jack.

“Boys, Duke is foreman of the Barkley ranch. Our new neighbors.” smiled Jack.

“Nice to meet you boys. I thought maybe you’d be picking up the Swenson herd today, Jack.” stated Duke as he joined them at the table.

“We’re gonna pick them up tomorrow. The boss had to come into town to see the doc and sheriff.”

“Sheriff! What’s going on?”

Duke listened as Jack told him the events that occurred at their ranch today. Looking at the cold eyes of the others around the table, Jack felt a chill run down his spine. ‘Whoever is doing this better watch his back’ he thought.

“Jack, there are plenty of other ranches around. I don’t understand why that one would be of more value to someone. Are you sure its not someone maybe from her past or something?” inquired Duke.

Harold nodded, “Yeah, you’re right. We’d have to consider that too.”

“That don’t make sense though. Jack would know if he saw someone he knew from Texas.” stated Curly shaking his head.

“Curly’s right. None of this started until she moved here.” agreed Bill as he took a sip of his beer.

“What the?” exclaimed Pedro, springing up from his chair, as he watched Hank grab a stranger’s hand from his boss’ shoulder and the shouting that followed.

The crew left the saloon and joined their boss as she mounted Satan. The other saloon patrons had also rushed outside to watch the happenings from across the street. Duke watched as the group left town and headed to his own horse.

Dismounting in front of the mansion, Duke walked to the door and knocked.

Victoria opened the door and smiled when she saw the foreman, “Duke, come in.”

“Thanks Mrs. Barkley but I just wanted to give you this telegram from your sons.” replied Duke as he handed her the telegram. “I’ve gotta ride out and check on the men.”

“Thank you Duke.” replied Victoria as she watched Duke mount and leave the ranch.

“Mother, who was at the door?” asked Audra

“Duke. He brought us a telegram from the boys.” said Victoria as she opened the telegram. “They met Eugene in Sacramento and they’ll be back Friday night.”

“Great, we’ll all be together for the festival. Its going to be so much fun, I can’t wait.” said Audra as the excitement rushed through her.

Victoria smiled as she gave her daughter a hug before they started into the dining room for tea, “This will be the first outing the whole Barkley family has been to. It will be a momentous occasion.”

Chapter 51

The sun was edging over the horizon as Sue and Jack rode from the ranchhouse towards the new herd they had driven over on Thursday. The crew had worked as one cohesive unit bringing the herd to their new home and had celebrated their new start that night.

“Looks like Charity’s gonna have a beautiful day for the festival. Not a cloud in the sky.” stated Sue.

Jack smiled, “Yeah, she was a bundle of nerves last night. She just wants everything to be perfect.”

“Well, its definitely a worthwhile cause. What time are you meeting her?” asked Sue.

“I’ll meet her at the festival at noon. Do you want to have lunch with us?”

Chuckling and shaking her head, Sue said, “No way would I want to come between you and your lady.”

Watching the crimson rise in his cheeks, Sue chuckled and nudged Satan into a gallop as she called back to Jack, “Lets hurry so you can go into town earlier.”

Laughing, Jack galloped after his boss catching up with Satan in a few minutes. As they topped the rise, Sue reined in Satan abruptly watching the birds circle in the sky. Jack stopped beside her and followed her upward glance.

Taking her rifle from its sheath, Sue started towards the area the birds were circling with Jack following behind. Riding through the herd, they were greeted by the sight of two steers on their side laying in their blood. Dismounting with rifle in hand, Sue walked to the steers as Jack cautiously looked around the area.

“Shot in the head.” stated Sue when Jack knelt beside her, cursing at the implications the dead animals held.

“Jack, get the boys. I want the herd moved closer to the house.” said Sue as she walked away from Jack and the steers.

“Sue, I can’t leave you here alone.” said Jack as he ran after her.

Stopping, Sue looked at Jack, “Get the men. I’m gonna look around for tracks.”

“Sue…”

“Just do what I say Jack!” said Sue angrily with eyes flashing like fire.

“Boss, I’ll get the men.” said Jack and then added a heartfelt plea, “Please promise me you won’t leave this area until we get back.”

Sue nodded and started walking around slowly searching the ground for indications of the gunman. Jack ran to his horse and left the area in a gallop to get the men.

Chapter 52

An hour later, Sue saw the men riding towards her with Satan. Taking Satan’s reins from Davey, Sue mounted.

“I found the trail. Jack, you and Pedro come with me. Bill, you and the others bury those steers. Then move the cattle to the other side of the ranchhouse towards the Stockton side of the ranch.”

“Boss, after we move the cattle ya want us to catch up?” asked Bill.

“No, stay with the herd until we get back.” said Sue as she turned Satan and followed the tracks with Jack and Pedro tagging along.

The men watched as Sue worked out the trail of the person that was responsible for the slaying of the steers. Stopping, Sue dismounted when she lost the trail. Jack and Pedro stayed on their horses and watched their boss at work.

Oblivious to everything around her and with rifle in hand, she focused on the task at hand. Working on the trail as a dog works over a bone, finding indications of the person’s passing by a partial hoofprint, a broken twig on a bush or a stone rolled over exposing the side that had once been imbedded in the dirt.

Satisfied when she picked up the trail again, Sue mounted Satan and started forward.

“Sue, is it the same track as the one on the mountain?” asked Jack hearing a cold “No” in reply to his question. Pedro frowned and glanced at his foreman who wore a similar expression on his face. The men’s unspoken thoughts echoed each other, ‘This means there are two causing problems for the boss.’

The trio followed the track up to the break in the wire on the Barkley fence. Sue stopped and frowned, “Looks like we’ll be visiting the neighbors.”

“Sue, you don’t think the Barkleys are responsible for this?” exclaimed Jack as he looked into his boss’ cold eyes.

Pedro shook his head, “Heath wouldn’t do that to you.”

Nudging Satan, Sue crossed onto the Barkley range, “The tracks speak for themselves.”

Jack and Pedro followed as Sue continued to work out the trail which to Jack’s dismay was heading towards the Barkley ranch. Stopping on a small hill overlooking the ranch, Sue gathered her emotions under control not wanting them to come in the way of sound judgement.

“Boss, they have a lot of men working for them.” said Jack softly. “It could be anyone.”

“Si boss, Jack is right.”

“I know that.” sighed Sue as nudged Satan forward. “Come on.”

Duke looked up and noticed the trio coming down the hill and slowly towards the ranch with Sue Weston in the front, looking at the ground, with the others following.

“Miss Weston’s coming.” said Duke.

Nick stood up and looked where Duke indicated. Watching the trio coming towards them, he said outloud “What’s she doing?”

“Looks like she’s tracking something.” said Duke softly.

Nick and Duke watched with curiousity at the trio’s movements as they came steadily towards them. Stopping at the gate, Sue put her rifle in the sheath and looked back at Jack and Pedro. They nodded, sheathed their rifles and followed their boss as she rode up to Nick and Duke.

“Morning Sue. Jack.” greeted Nick admiring the stallion she was riding.

“Nick. Duke. This is Pedro.” said Sue as she and the men dismounted.

“You tracking something, Sue?” asked Nick.

“Any of your men riding late last night, Nick?” asked Sue as she ignored his question.

“I’d have to check, why?”

“Can you check now?”

“Perhaps you’d like to tell me why I should check.” suggested Nick softly as he gazed into the green ice cubes.

“I have two dead steers on my range that were shot in the head. The tracks led us here.” Sue coldly informed a shocked Nick and Duke.

“Are you saying we had something to do with that?” said Nick brusquely.

“I’m saying I followed the tracks here. I didn’t say you had something to do with it personally.”

“Why would one of our men shoot your steers?” questioned Nick as he watched the anger flash in her eyes.

“How the hell should I know! I’m just following the tracks.” snapped Sue as she glared at Nick.

“What reason would they have for doing something like that?” inquired Nick with arms folded across his chest.

“I can’t read minds! All I know is what I saw on the ground this morning.” retorted Sue sarcastically.

None of the group heard Jarrod and Victoria approaching through the heated words, “Sue, how nice of you to visit us today.” said Victoria happy to see their new friend.

Tearing her gaze from Nick’s face, Sue nodded, “Victoria. Jarrod.” Jarrod and Victoria frowned at the response from their new neighbor.

“What’s wrong?” asked Jarrod.

“Sue claims one of our men killed two of her steers last night.” stated Nick before Sue could speak.

“I don’t claim anything Nick.” snapped Sue “I know it cause I followed the tracks here.”

Victoria nodded, “Duke, can you check to see if any of the men were out last night?”

“Sure, Mrs. Barkley.” said Duke as he walked to the bunkhouse to speak to the men.

“How about if we all go to the house for some coffee while we wait for Duke.” suggested Jarrod.

Victoria smiled at Sue and Nick who had been eyeing each other and appeared to be waiting for the next round of sparring to begin.

“Thanks Jarrod, but I’d rather not.” said Sue softly. “Is Heath here?”

“He left with Audra and Eugene already. They’re helping her get things set up for the festival.” explained Victoria.

“Will we see you at the festival, Sue?” inquired Jarrod.

Sue shrugged, “I had promised Charity I’d be there. Now, I’ll have to see.”

Duke made his way back to the group, “Mrs. Barkley, I questioned the men except Barrett, Tim and Scotty who aren’t here. None of the others left the ranch last night.”

“Thanks, Duke. Let me know when those three come back.” stated Nick. “I’ll let you know what I find out, Sue.”

Sue nodded and climbed on Satan. “Nick, I’d like to check their tracks. I’ll be able to tell from that. Nice to see you again Victoria and Jarrod.”

Turning their horses, the trio started to ride when Sue stopped and called out, “Oh and Nick, your fence is down again.”

Nick waved that he had heard her as she turned and rode away following the same trail that led them to the Barkley ranch.

“Duke, can you see that fence gets fixed before any of the others leave for town?” asked Nick as he watched the trio become specks in the distance.

“Sure Nick. I’ll take care of it.” Duke said as he went to get a crew together.

Jarrod put a hand on Nick’s shoulder, “She’s a rancher through and through.”

Nick frowned, “Yep, she sure is. Why would one of our men shoot her steers?”

Victoria nodded, “It doesn’t make any sense, but Sue seems quite certain about it.”

Nick nodded, “I don’t like it. She’s been shot at twice and now this.”

Jarrod agreed, “Someone’s working very hard to scare her, but based on what we know about Sue, it’s not gonna work.”

“I hope Fred finds out who’s doing this before they decide trying to scare her isn’t working.” said Victoria quietly. “I also hope none of our men are involved in this. Let us know what those three men say when you question them, Nick.”

“I will Mother. Then I’ll take their horses over to her ranch and she can check the tracks.” stated Nick as they walked to the house to get ready for the festival.

Chapter 53

The town of Stockton was hustling and bustling with the excitement the festival was generating. The residents and others from the outlying communities had come together to give what they could to the building fund for the orphanage. Banners decorated the main street with signs directing the visitors to the festival area.

Brightly painted and decorated booths had been erected in the field south of town. A huge tent, with tables and benches underneath, was in the center of the area for people to seek shelter from the sun that was shining overhead. Children of all ages could be heard throughout, laughing and shouting while playing various games. Babies could be heard squabbling, babbling or cooing. Later that evening, the festival dance would be held under the tent on the temporary wooden floor that had been built.

Women were carrying their coveted baked items and quilts to their respective judging areas, hoping for that elusive blue ribbon and the feeling of pride that came with it.

Men were competing in the testosterone based contests from horseshoe tournaments to arm wrestling competitions to horse racing. Their hopes were pinned on being named the best around and gaining the admiration of the others of their species.

Jack Franklin walked around the festival area searching for Charity. They were to join up and enjoy a quiet picnic lunch together down by the stream.

“Jack!” called Heath as he made his way towards his friend.

Jack grinned and waved at the blond that was headed towards him. Shaking his hand, he asked, “Heath, have you seen Charity?”

“Yep, she’s at the kissing booth with Audra.” smiled Heath “They’re sure making a lot of money for the orphanage.”

Jack blushed, “Charity didn’t say anything about a kissing booth.”

Heath laughed and slapped Jack on the back, “Don’t worry, she’s just collecting the dime. Audra and Sonja, the new schoolteacher, are doing the kissing.”

Jack chuckled, “How many times have you been through the line, Heath?”

Heath giggled, “About five now. Sonja’s quite the lady and I’m a lucky man since I get to escort her to the dance tonight. Hey, speaking of beautiful women, where’s Sue?”

Jack frowned as he and Heath started walking towards the booth, “We had some trouble at the ranch. She’s coming in later this afternoon.”

“What kind of trouble?’ asked Heath with a concerned look on his face.

“Someone killed two of our steers last night. We found ‘em this morning.” explained Jack.

“Who would do something like that?” Heath growled as the anger rose within him.

Jack stopped his friend with a hand on his arm, “That ain’t the half of it Heath.”

Heath listened as Jack filled him in on the morning’s events.

“She’s coming in with Hank, Davey and Curly. Harold, Pedro and Bill volunteered to spend the evening at the ranch. They said they’d go to the next dance.”

Shaking his head, Heath replied “Whoever’s doing this sure don’t know who they’re messing with.”

Sighing Jack said quietly, “No and they’ve really got her going. She’s not just angry Heath, she’s furious. I’ve never seen her eyes as cold as they were this morning.”

Arriving at the booth, Heath replied, “We’ll do whatever we can to help find these people, Jack. When I see Sue later, I’ll speak to her about it.”

Jack smiled, “Okay, but be prepared to get an earful.”

Heath grinned and introduced Jack to Eugene who had arrived to take Audra to lunch. The men escorted their lunch partners away, listening to the groans of the males that stood in line waiting for a kiss from the beautiful ladies. Cheers replaced the groans as two of Stockton’s other beauties took the places of Audra and Sonja.

Chapter 54

Sue and her three men arrived in Stockton later that afternoon to partake in the festival activities. Stopping outside the festival area, Sue dismounted with Hank and gave Satan’s reins to Davey.

Rubbing the bridge of Satan’s nose as he nuzzled her shoulder, Sue spoke quietly “Satan, you be nice to Davey now, ya’ hear.” Satan shook his head and nuzzled her some more. Davey blushed as Hank and Curly laughed.

“Hank, let’s go find Dan.” stated Sue as she walked towards the festival area with Hank beside her.

Ignoring the looks that were directed towards the oddly paired couple, Sue and Hank searched the crowd for Dan, finding him under a tree watching two children playing nearby.

Seeing his visitors arriving, Dan stood and greeted them, “Good afternoon! I was wondering when you’d get here.”

Smiling, Sue and Hank shook his hand. “Hi Dan. Are these your girls?”

Beaming with fatherly pride, Dan nodded, “These are my twins. Jacquelyn and Jenny. They’re two years old.”

Kneeling in front of the girls, Sue smiled and said softly, “What angelic faces!”

Hearing a gentle laugh, Sue looked up and saw a woman who was without a doubt the mother of the two girls.

“Sue, this is my wife Marie. Marie, this is Suzanne Weston.” said Dan.

“Pleasure to meet you, Mrs. Baldwin.” smiled Sue.

“The pleasure is all mine. Please call me Marie and I’ll call you Sue. From Dan’s description of you, I feel as if I’ve known you forever.” murmured Marie. “Who is this handsome gentleman?”

Hank blushed as he took off his hat, “Hank Bardo, ma’am. Pleased to meet you.”

“Mr. Bardo.” nodded Marie as she gazed up at the man who was well over six feet five inches tall. “Sue, I can definitely assure you that while our girls do have angelic faces, they also have the devil’s mischievous spirit running through them.”

Sue laughed as they watched the twins interacting with the man who must seem as tall as a tree to them. His game of hide and seek behind his large hands was generating giggles and screams of delights from the twins.

Hating to break up the wonderment of the moment, Sue sighed, “Marie, would you mind if I steal this lawyer away for a few moments.”

“No, of course not. Perhaps you will join us for dinner later.” smiled Marie.

“Thank you. It would be our pleasure.” stated Sue “Hank, would you mind staying here and helping Marie with the girls while their daddy and I go to his office.”

Hank frowned, “Boss, I’m not supposed to leave your side. Jack’s orders!”

“I don’t think there’s anything to worry about. Too many people around. Stay here and play with the kids.”

“I don’t know Boss.” hesitated Hank.

“I’ll be fine. Anyway, I can tell the twins are gonna have you wrapped around their fingers in no time at all.” chuckled Sue as Hank blushed and Marie giggled.

“Please stay Mr. Bardo. The girls are truly enjoying your company. Usually they run and hide from strangers.” insisted Marie.

“Okay, Mrs. Baldwin.” agreed Hank as Sue and Dan walked around the festival area towards main street.

Chapter 55

Davey and Curly followed from a distance as their boss walked with Dan Baldwin to his office. Sitting on a bench outside the general mercantile, they waited for the pair to finish their business and leave the office.

“Curly, this shady business is making me edgy.” whispered Davey as he watched the door across and down the street.

“Watching the boss?” asked Curly.

“No! Someone shooting at her and the cattle. I don’t like feeling as if we’re waiting for the other boot to drop.”

Curly nodded, “Yeah. I know what ya’ mean, but you gotta keep it together. Watch the boss, you’d never know that someone was after her.”

“She’s a hard case alright. Sometimes I think ice runs through her veins instead of blood.”

“There’s no ice in her veins! She’s in the right and whoever is doing this is in the wrong. There’s no stopping someone who’s on the right side. She wouldn’t let an injustice occur to anyone around her and she sure ain’t gonna let one happen to her.” explained Curly to the younger ranchhand. “Her father was the same way, may the Gods help whoever is doing this when it comes to the bitter end.”

Davey sighed, “I still don’t like it.”

Chuckling, Curly said, “Yeah, I bet she don’t like it too much either.” The men stood and hurried towards the door as it opened and the two stepped outside.

“Hi Boss!” called Curly as he approached the two of them.

“Boys, have ya’ been following me?” asked Sue.

“Uh, why would we do something like that? We was just waiting for ya’ is all.” stammered Davey, nervous of upsetting his boss.

Dan smiled as Sue winked, “Just teasing Davey. I know all about Jack’s orders before he left the ranch. Let’s get back to the festival.”

Curly and Davey let out the breaths they had been holding and walked with Dan and Sue to the festival. Approaching Marie and Hank, Curly and Davey chuckled at the sight of Hank on his hands and knees giving the kids a horsey ride.

“Boys, lay off!” growled Sue at her two snickering hands who quickly sobered as they saw the warning look on their boss’ face.

“Well, that was quick.” said Marie as she greet her husband with a quick kiss. “Did you get everything done?”

Sue smiled, “Yes, we did. Thank you Marie. I see that Hank has been keeping the children entertained.”

“Yes, they just love him. Hank has offered to watch the twins so we can go to the dance tonight, honey.” stated Marie beaming from ear to ear.

“Whoa, are you sure Hank? They can be quite a handful.” asked Dan as Hank stood up.

“It would be my pleasure. If it’s okay with you, boss?” asked Hank quietly while holding each girl in one arm.

“If you want to, its okay with me Hank. How about if we all go have supper at the Cattleman’s? Then Hank you can go to the Baldwins afterwards and they can show you what you may need to know about taking care of the girls tonight.” suggested Sue.

“Sounds like a great plan. Marie and I’ll join you at the Cattleman’s shortly. We’re gonna take the kids over to the facilities and get them cleaned up for supper.” smiled Dan as he and Marie each took a girl from Hank.

“Okay, see you in a little bit.”

Sue watched as the couple walked away. “Let’s see what type of booths they have set up, guys.”

The four of them walked through the festival area stopping to look at the offerings of the different booths. Davey stopped Hank and gestured towards the blond whose back was to them. Hank grinned and the others watched as he snuck up and lifted the blond off his feet and put him over his shoulders like a sack of grain.

“Boy Howdy, Hank! I think you’ve grown!” laughed Heath as Hank put him down and embraced him in a mountain sized hug.

“Great to see ya’ sprout!” laughed Hank as he winked at his friend with the lopsided grin. “I couldn’t believe it when I heard you was here.”

“It’s great to see you too, Tiny!”

Nick , Jarrod and Victoria stared in shock at the size of the man before them. He had picked up Heath as if he were as light as a feather. Heath introduced his family to his other friends.

Victoria smiled graciously, “It’s so nice to meet you gentlemen. I hope we get to see more of you since we’re neighbors.”

Curly, ever the gentleman, bowed to Heath’s mother, “That would be our honor ma’am.”

“Will we be seeing you at the dance, Sue?” inquired Jarrod.

“I’ll make an appearance. I won’t be staying long as the other men are guarding the herd. I wanna spell them by midnight.” explained Sue.

Nick nodded, “I haven’t seen the other three men yet. I’ll let you know when I do.”

Gazing in the hazel eyes, Sue read the concern there and smiled warmly as Nick’s heart soared, “Thanks, Nick.”

Heath grinned at the sparks between his friend and brother, “You boys gonna be at the dance?”

Davey snickered as Hank glared at him, “Hank’s gonna babysit tonight.”

The others laughed as Davey hid behind the boss when Hank went after him.

Shaking her finger at Hank, Sue teased, “I told you not to beat him in public Hank. Wait til we at least get back to the ranch.”

“Boss!!” exclaimed Davey from behind her as the others chuckled at the scene before them.

“Hey, you started it Davey. Hank’ll finish it later.” stated Sue “Victoria, we shall see you later. We have to meet the Baldwins for supper.”

Sue was rewarded with a motherly hug as Victoria smiled, “Tonight, we will show whoever’s bothering you that the Barkleys are standing by you all the way.”

Sue blinked the tears away that had welled in her eyes from the hug and inspirational words, “Thank you Victoria. That means a lot to me.”

Chapter 56

Jamie Foster, a black haired petite woman with full red lips and a full bust was attached to the arm of Nick as he walked into the festival tent, feeling the looks of jealously from the unattached men in the area. Jamie, proudly holding the arm of one of the most eligible bachelors in town, smiled at the looks she was receiving from the ladies ranging from wistfulness to anger to hunger.

The couple made their way to the rest of his family who were gathered around with their respective dates on their arms and surrounding their mother. The Barkley family looked stunning in their evening wear as Jack and Charity made their way towards them.

“Charity, you look absolutely beautiful.” said Audra as she gave her co-chairperson, wearing a midnight blue chiffon dress, a hug.

“Thank you, Audra. You’re very beautiful yourself.” smiled Charity.

Audra, looking stunning in a lavender satin dress, introduced everyone to Jack and Charity and asked. “Where’s Sue?”

“She and the boys will be here shortly.” stated Jack with a smile. “Charity wanted to make sure we were here for the first dance.”

The group exchanged small talk as the orchestra started playing. The couples made their way onto the dance floor and moved like butterflies across a gentle breeze to the music of a waltz. Victoria, in a high collared white dress, smiled as she watched her children enjoying themselves. When the music stopped, murmurs and gasps could be heard through the crowd gathered by the entrance way, Victoria stood as the crowd parted revealing the Baldwins followed by the newcomer to the area flanked on either side by her two, smiling and proud escorts.

Jamie Foster, with her back to the doorway, saw the jaw of Nick drop as he stared at someone behind her. Turning with annoyance, she gaped at the auburn haired woman that was approaching.

Suzanne Weston, her auburn hair swept up and back from her face, hanging in french braids to her shoulder, wore a black silk evening gown which revealed the milky white skin of her shoulders and a hint of her cleavage.

The black silk was accented with a Jade green velvet lining and sash. Around her throat lay a jade and diamond necklace. The matching earrings accented the green in her eyes. Her beautiful face was radiant and glowing.

Suzanne Weston floated into Stockton’s social circle that night in a dress straight from a Paris fashion show. Jamie Foster knew from the enthralled look on her escort’s face, she had already lost the battle she’d have started for his affection and attention.

Victoria walked out and greeted their neighbor, “Sue, you look absolutely breath taking.”

Returning the hug, Sue grinned, “You look beautiful also, Victoria.”

Heath gave his friend a hug and introduced her to Sonja, “Sue, Heath has told me so much about you. He’s lucky to have a good friend like you.”

Sue, seeing Heath’s eye shining like stars in a clear blue sky as he gazed at the pretty brunette, smiled, “It’s nice to meet you Sonja. You’re the lucky one to have Heath as your escort tonight.”

Sonja blushed, “Thank you. Just for that kind remark, I’ll let you have him for one dance.”

Heath chuckled and kissed his escort’s hand. “Shall we, Sue?”

Heath held out his arm to his friend and walked her onto the dance floor. The orchestra struck up with another waltz and the crowd watched as the newest Barkley son danced with the newest rancher. The rest of the Barkleys and their guests followed them to the dance floor. Davey dressed in his tuxedo danced with Victoria as Curly danced with Sonja and entertained her with tidbits of his time with Heath in Texas.

Heath grinned, “You’ll be the talk of the town for months.”

“Well, we gotta give them something to wag their tongues about. They’re all probably wondering where my gun is.” smirked Sue as Heath laughed. “Hey, how come you didn’t mention Sonja to me?”

“Sorry, I haven’t seen ya lately and I’ve been preoccupied.” said Heath with a sly grin.

Laughing, Sue smiled back as they floated across the dance floor. “I can see why, Heath. She’s absolutely beautiful.”

When the music stopped, Heath and Sue left the dance floor. “Thank you Sonja. Here’s your escort back. Heath, you must bring her out to the ranch sometime.”

“I would love that!” replied Sonja excitedly. “Thank you.”

“Now go dance you two and we’ll make plans later.” stated Sue after Heath had introduced Eugene to her when he asked to dance with the lovely rancher.

Jamie Foster latched onto Nick’s arm as he tried to leave the dance floor. “Nick, aren’t you going to dance the next dance with me?”

Seeing Eugene escorting Sue onto the floor, he said distractedly, “Yeah, sure.”

Nick’s eyes could not keep from following Sue Weston as she danced one dance after another. Jamie’s voice kept falling on deaf ears as she tried to turn his attention back onto her. Victoria smiled as she watched her children on the dance floor. Seeing, Nick’s eyes following Sue’s every movement, she was filled with the hope of a budding romance. Hearing a part of Jamie’s conversation with Nick as they danced by, Victoria chuckled, knowing the poor girl had no chance against her competition, Sue Weston.

“Nick, remember you’re here with me! Nick! NICK!” snapped Jamie as Nick looked at her in surprise.

“What are you yelling for?”

“You haven’t heard a word I’ve said, Nick Barkley. You just keep ogling that woman!”

Nick blushed, “I am not ogling her. I’m just keeping an eye out for her. She’s a friend of my brother Heath.”

Feeling a tap on his shoulder, Nick graciously stepped aside to allow Curly the opportunity to dance with his date. Seeing Sue talking to his mother, Nick walked over and bowed, “May I have this dance, Sue.”

Sue smiled, “You may, Nick. Please excuse us, Victoria.”

As Nick escorted Sue onto the dance floor, the other dancers around them could feel the electricity flowing between them. Lost in the feel of each other’s arms and the look in each other’s eyes, they were oblivious to all.

“You look ravaging tonight, Sue.”

“Thank you, Nick. You are looking quite handsome yourself.”

“Are you having a good time?” asked Nick.

Sue smiled, “Yes, I am. How about yourself, Nick?”

“Sure. I always have a good time at these shindigs.”

“Your date is very beautiful, Nick. I don’t think she likes me dancing with you, though.” teased Sue as she gazed into his warm hazel eyes.

Losing himself in her green eyes, Nick smiled warmly “No one here can hold a candle to you tonight, Sue.”

Sue blushed, “Why thank you Nick. What a wonderful thing to say.”

Bending down, he whispered in her ear, “I only speak the truth, my dear, only the truth.”

The blood rushed to Sue’s face as Nick whispered in her ear. Her heart was pounding so fast, she thought it could be heard all the way to Sacramento. Her stomach was full of butterflies flying on a gentle breeze.

When the music stopped, Nick held her hand to his lips and whispered, “Thank you, Miss Weston.”

“Thank you, Mr. Barkley.” whispered Sue feeling a sense of loss as he was snatched back up by Jamie Foster.

“Boss, may I?” inquired Davey with a smile.

Chuckling, Sue nodded, “It would be my pleasure, Davey.”

Chapter 57

Sue danced with Davey unaware that John Travis was watching her every move from the shadows. Lack of sleep caused dark circles to form under his eyes, giving him a haunted look. His dreams had been plagued by the girl before him, bewitching him with her green eyes, her lips and her beauty. In his nightmares, her green eyes held a promise of a future together, then she would turn on him and be the cause of his death. The very carefully maneuvered pieces on the chessboard would change direction erratically ruining his carefully planned out strategies. The lack of productive results was eating away at his soul like acid would eat through metal.

His mind was following an erratic course from sleep deprivation and he was on a downward spiral. His hunger for fame, power and fortune was eroding away his mind. His focus became centered on the one person who stood in his way and haunted his very existence.

He was a changed man. The employees and customers of the bank had become concerned about his appearance. Having to satisfy their curiosity and stem the gossip mongers, he had informed them he was ill and was taking a vacation to get the rest he needed.

Seeing Barrett standing at the opening of the tent, Travis made his way towards him.

“Barrett!” hissed Travis from the shadows.

Barrett walked towards the sound of his name. Stopping in front of Travis, he could barely make out the expression on Travis’ face due to the darkness of the shadow.

“John, I’ve been looking all over for you.” whispered Barrett.

“Why are the Barkleys surrounding that woman?” snarled Travis angrily.

“I don’t know. I did like you asked. I shot at her and killed the steers.” stammered Barrett as a cold dreadful feeling filled his whole being.

“Did you lead her back to the Barkley ranch?”

“Yeah, I did! Some of the men were talking about how she tracked someone back to the ranch.” explained Barrett.

“Were you riding Nick’s horse?” hissed Travis.

“Uh, I couldn’t get Coco. Duke was in the stables til early this morning.”

Travis grabbed Barrett and dragged him into the shadows as his rage drove him over the edge. “Idiot!! We needed her to think it was Nick Barkley that killed her steers, now you’ve ruined it!”

“Mr. Travis, it’s gonna work out just fine.” pleaded Barrett as he saw the wildness in his partner’s eyes. “We can think of something else.”

“You’re right. Sorry for letting my anger get the best of me. Let’s go where we can talk privately.” Travis smiled as Barrett nodded and the two men left the festival area.

New Start, Part 2