New Start, Part 3

by catgirl63

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

Synopsis: This story follows the arrival of a new ranch owner and her crew to the valley and the Barkley family. The time period is set a few months after Heath arrived to claim his birthright.

Chapter 58

Sue and her escorts left the dance with the Baldwins at eleven that night. Before leaving, Sue handed Charity and Audra a check.

“This is for the orphanage from all of us at the ranch. The men, Maria and Jose contributed part of their salary and I’m giving the rest.” smiled Sue as Audra and Charity hugged her.

Heath and Jack grinned at each other as Nick muttered, “kittens and kids.”

Davey escorted Sue to the hotel to change while Curly walked the Baldwins home. Entering the house, the three of them spied Hank in a rocking chair asleep with the twins nestled in his arms. Curly gently tapped Hank’s arm to rouse him.

Hank woke and looked sheepishly at the three grinning faces. “How was the dance?”

Dan and Marie each took one of the sleeping twins from Hank, “It was wonderful Hank. I can’t thank you enough.” replied Marie as she kissed his cheek.

Dan chuckled as the blush rose up from Hank’s neck to his cheeks, “Hank, we had a wonderful time and we weren’t worried at all about the girls. We knew we had left them with a very capable caretaker. Thank you again.”

Hank rose and put on his hat. “It was my pleasure. Anytime I can help you just let me know.”

Curly smiled, “We better catch up with the boss. Night all.”

The two walked to the hotel from the Baldwins. Curly informing Hank of the dance and how beautiful their boss looked.

“I ain’t ever seen her in a dress before, Hank.” whistled Curly. “After she walked in, no one paid any of the other women there much mind.”

Hank chuckled, “I bet some of the women there didn’t like that very much.”

“I think Nick Barkley’s date would have spit nails at the boss if she could have. You should’ve seen the lady Heath was escorting. He’s a lucky man!”

“Sorry I missed it, but I had a wonderful time with the twins. I just love kids.”

Curly laughed, “We all know that Hank! You’d make a wonderful father, even the boss has said that.”

Hank noticed a man laying in the entrance to the alley by the hotel. “Curly, let’s see if that guy needs some help.”

Curly sighed, “Ah, he’s probably just sleeping off a drunk.”

“We’re here, lets check anyways.” stated Hank as he walked up to the man and nudged him with his massive hand. “Hey buddy, wake up.”

Curly helped Hank turn the man over when they couldn’t wake him and the light cast from a window of the hotel shone across the man’s upper body, “Damn Hank! His neck’s broken!” exclaimed Curly as he stood up.

“I’ll get the sheriff.” said Hank as he headed down the street.

Chapter 59

Davey and Sue walked up the street of Stockton leading the horses to the hotel where they would be meeting Curly and Hank.

“Hey, Boss. Look at all those people at the hotel.” said Davey.

Sue looked up the street, “Wonder what’s going on?”

Tying the horses at a hitching rail across from the hotel, they made their way over to Hank and Curly who were speaking with Sheriff Madden.

“Guys, everything okay?” asked Sue with a concerned look at her employees.

Fred smiled, “They’re just giving me their statements, Miss Weston. They found a dead man in the alley.”

“That’s horrible.” said Sue sadly. “Any idea of what happened, sheriff?”

“His neck’s broken. Could have been from a fall or something. I’ll know more after I talk to the Barkleys in the morning.” stated Fred as he continued writing in his book.

“The Barkleys? It wasn’t one of the Barkleys, was it?” exclaimed Sue as the color drained from her face

“No, boss!” stammered Curly “It’s one of their hands.”

“Geez, don’t scare me like that, Sheriff!” snapped Sue.

“Sorry, Miss Weston.” said Fred. “I’m done with your men. If I have any other questions, I’ll come out to the ranch.”

“Okay, thanks Sheriff.” nodded Sue as she walked to Satan with the men following.

Davey peppered Hank and Curly with questions as they rode to the ranch. Sue, lost in the memories of the dance, vaguely heard the conversation around her. Hank’s deep voice brought her back to reality.

“I’m sorry Hank, what did you say?”

“Do you want us to spell the men at the herd, boss?”

“Ride out and see if they had any problems. If they didn’t, you all come in and get some sleep. But if they had any trouble, two of you stay with the herd and the other come back and let me know.” stated Sue as she dismounted and led Satan into the barn.

Unsaddling Satan, Sue felt a twinge of pain in her left shoulder. Putting her saddle on the rail, she walked to the house rubbing her shoulder. ‘Great! Doc’s gonna kill me if I overdo it. Guess I better wear the sling tomorrow.’

Maria greeted her boss at the door, “Miss Sue, did you have a nice time?”

Smiling, Sue poured a glass of sherry for her and Maria, “I had a wonderful time, Maria. Here, sit and I’ll tell you all about it.”

The next morning, Jack Franklin rode from Stockton towards the ranch with his spirits soaring as high as the eagles. He had enjoyed himself at the festival and the time he had spent with Charity Jones. Regretfully he had kissed her goodbye and started back to the ranch after breakfast.

Thoughts of her filled his every waking moment creating a longing in him that he’d never felt before. The longing to walk through the paths of life with his woman by his side. The longing to see her at night and be there with her in the morning. She was the woman for him.

Laughing to himself as he enjoyed the morning sunrise he remembered the boss’ words on the trail to Stockton when he said he wasn’t the marrying kind.

‘Well, guess I was wrong’ thought Jack with a smile. ‘Marrying her is what I’m gonna do.’

Taking the turn off to the ranch, Jack felt a tremendous pain in his back and a burning sensation. Falling off his horse, he lay crumpled on the ground unaware of the blood pooling around his body and the evil laugh that sounded in the still morning air as his horse raced down the road without him.

Chapter 60

Sue and the men were saddling their horses and discussing the work for the day that needed to be completed.

“We need to complete the fencing on the north pasture and those dams before the rain comes.” said Sue as she tightened the girth on Satan’s saddle.

Hank, Curly and Bill volunteered to fence while Harold and Pedro would finish building the dams to catch water for the cattle to help them through any dry seasons coming up. Davey and Jose would spend the day working with the string of horses they purchased from Mrs. Swenson.

“Miss Sue! Miss Sue!” Maria called from the yard.

Running out of the barn, they saw Jack’s empty horse with reins trailing. Walking up slowly and talking quietly, Sue grabbed the reins of the frightened animal. Rubbing the neck of the chestnut, she stopped paralyzed with fear as her eyes caught the sight of the blood on the saddle.

Spinning around she shouted, “Hank, get the buckboard. Pedro and Maria get some bedding and bandages. Bring the wagon down the road til you see us. HURRY!”

Sue and the rest of the crew ran to their horses and galloped down the road that Jack would’ve taken back to the ranch. The faces of the riders grim as they wondered what condition their friend was in. Praying the fates would be kind to them that morning.

Seeing a body laying in the dust of the road, Sue jumped off Satan and ran to his side. Kneeling in the blood pooling around his body, she reached a shaky hand to his throat, praying for a pulse. ‘Come on Jack!’ she thought desperately.

“Yes! I can feel a faint pulse. Davey, get the doc!” shouted Sue as she took the sling hanging around her neck and pressed hard onto his wound with her hands, concerned about the lack of color in his face.

Bill, took over when the strength in her arms was fading, keeping the pressure tight to help stem the flow of blood while Sue whispered words into his ear.

“Fight Jack! You can do it!”

Harold and Curly rushed to the buckboard when Hank and Pedro arrived. Grabbing more bandages, Hank took Bill’s place and held the new bandage over the blood soaked sling. The pressure on the wound slowly ebbing the flow of the precious red liquid.

“Alright, lift him up and bring ‘em to the wagon. Hank keep the pressure on that wound.” said Sue as she climbed in the back of the wagon.

The men gently lifted Jack’s body and placed him on his stomach in the wagon while Hank kept the pressure on the wound. Sue covered him gently and looked at Curly. “Curly, you better go get Charity Jones and the sheriff.”

“Okay, boss.” said Curly as he hurried to his horse and raced him to Stockton.

Pedro climbed in the driver’s box of the wagon while Bill and Harold mounted their horses. Bill grabbed Satan’s reins and heard the boss say “Pedro, lets go but take it slow and steady. I don’t wanna cause him any more pain.”

“Yes, Boss.” replied Pedro as they started back to the ranch with Sue whispering encouragement steadily on the long drive home.

“Jack, we’re almost home. Stay with us. We need you my friend.”

Sue relieved Hank and kept pressure on the wound as they continued their steady journey. Her mind was reeling with thoughts of anger and revenge.

Looking up, Hank held his breath at the look in her eyes, “Whoever did this is as good as dead. Mark my words, Hank, it’s not gonna be a quick death, either.”

Seeing her arms tremble, Hank covered her hands with his. “I’ll take over now, boss. He’s in good hands.”

Sue smiled gratefully at the gentle giant, “I know Hank. We all love him.”

Pedro nodded as he listened to the conversation between Sue and Hank. ‘We’ll find out who did it boss’ he promised as the ranchhouse came into sight.

Maria held the door open as the men carried the foreman inside. Bringing him to the Boss’ bedroom, they gently laid him on the bed.

“Maria, the doc’s gonna need some water boiled. Pedro, fill that basin with water and bring me a washcloth. Bill and Harold, take off his boots and pants. Hank keep the pressure on and I’m gonna cut his shirt off around your hands. I don’t want to loosen any clots that may have formed.”

Working gently and steadily, Jack was stripped of his garments and covered with a blanket. Sue washed around the wound as much as she could while Hank kept the pressure on.

“Let’s see if he’s still bleeding.” said Sue as Hank slowly lifted his hands and she peeked under the bandages. “Looks good, boys.”

Wiping the face of her foreman, she continued talking to him as if he were awake, “So Jack, when ya’ gonna marry Charity? Don’t tell me you’re not, cause me and the boys know better, don’t we guys?”

A chorus of “yes” could be heard from the men who watched their boss tenderly caring for their friend.

“Miss Sue, Davey and the doctor are here.” said Maria as she carried fresh water in.

Davey and Dr. Merar entered the room. Nodding to the men, Howard walked to the bed as Sue started talking, “We finally got the bleeding stopped, doc. He lost an awful lot of blood before we even got there. We didn’t want to break any clots that had formed so we left the part of the shirt where his wound is. He’s also got a fever.”

Howard smiled as he examined the wound, “Very wise of you not to remove the shirt, Miss Weston. I need some more light. We may need to do a transfusion. Has he ever had one before?”

Sue sighed as Harold brought another lamp to the bedside table, “Yeah, one other time before. Both Hank and I’ve given him blood.”

“That’s good. He’ll need some from both of you. Hank, come sit over here and I’ll get you all hooked up. Maria, can assist me. The rest of you can wait outside.”

Stunned, Sue looked at Howard, “I’m not leaving doc.”

“I need my full concentration on helping this young man. I’ll come get you when I’m done.” explained Howard softly.

The others walked out and Bill gently took his boss’ arm as he lead her from the room , “Com’n boss, let the doc work.”

Chapter 61

Curly raced down the street of Stockton and stopped in front of the sheriff’s office. Jumping down, he quickly tied his horse and ran inside the building.

“Sheriff!”

Nick and Heath looked up as Curly burst in the room. Fred looked at the frazzled man, “What’s the matter?”

“Someone shot Jack Franklin in the back!”

“What?” the three shouted at once and jumped to their feet.

“The boss said to get you and Miss Jones. The doc’s on his way out there now. It’s bad.” said Curly in a panicked voice.

Heath grabbed Curly by the shoulders and calmly said, “Go get Charity and bring her to the ranch. We’ll take the sheriff out there.”

“Okay, Heath” said Curly before he ran out the door and turned his horse towards the mission.

Heath, Nick and Fred rode to the Weston ranch, not speaking, but all with dark thoughts running through their minds. ‘Who would shoot a man like Jack in the back’. ‘Is it related to the shots someone took at Sue’. ‘Does this have anything to do with Barrett who’s at the morticians with a broken neck’.

Tying their horses in front of the house, they walked to the door where they were let in by Bill.

“Thanks for coming.” said Bill softly.

“How is he?” asked Heath as they followed Bill into the living room.

“Doc’s in with him now. Hank’s giving him some blood.” informed Bill as he gestured with his head towards the boss who was staring out the window with her back to them. “I’ll get ya’ some coffee.”

“I’ll help ya’” said Fred knowing the Barkleys wanted some time with alone with Miss Weston.

Heath walked over and stood by his friend, “Sue, he’s gonna be fine. Jack’s a tough man.”

Taking a drink of her coffee, Sue continued to look out the window, not speaking just staring.

Heath, concerned with the lack of response, said quietly, “Curly’s bringing Charity out. They should be here shortly.”

Looking back at Nick, Heath’s blue eyes were overfilled with concern when she didn’t speak or acknowledge his words.

Nick started to approach when the bedroom door opened and Hank exited.

Seeing Sue at the window, he walked over and spoke quietly, “Boss, the doc needs your blood now.”

Handing Heath her coffee cup, she turned and walked into the room closing the door behind her.

Hank, seeing the frowns on the faces of Heath and Nick, sighed “She’s upset and worried. I think she’s in shock and it hasn’t fully hit her yet.”

Heath nodded as Hank put an arm on his shoulder, “Lets go in the kitchen with the rest of the men.”

The three joined the rest of the crew and the sheriff in the kitchen where they were updating him on what happened that morning.

Dr. Merar completed the transfusion from Sue to Jack and looked in her eyes. “All things considering, your foreman’s a lucky man. The bullet missed his spine but nicked his spleen and I’ve had to remove it. He’s weak and he’s got a good fever going. If we can keep his fever under control and there are no complications, he has a good chance of making a full recovery. Rest will help replenish his strength and when he wakes up we’ll give him fluids to keep him hydrated.”

Sue nodded and said quietly, “Thanks doc. Can you tell the others?”

“Sure, I’ll be right back.”

When Howard and Maria left the room, Sue leaned down and kissed Jack on the forehead. “Jack, I’ll be back in a bit. You rest and Charity’ll be here shortly to take good care of you.”

Taking her rifle and extra bullets from the closet, Sue opened her window and dropped to the ground. At the corner of the house, she waited until Charity and Davey entered and closed the door. Walking over, she led Satan out of the yard before she climbed on and rode down the road to where Jack had been found.

Jose, seeing Sue leave on Satan, ran to the house. “Miss Sue rode away.”

Bill stood up. “Dammit. She’s probably gonna see what she can find out about who shot Jack. She’s so stubborn!”

Howard shook his head, “You better bring her back. She’s gonna be weak from the blood she gave to Jack.”

Nick rose and said, “I’ll go get her.”

“I’ll come with you, Nick.” said Heath.

“No, I think you should stay here, Heath. If I have to drag her back, it’s better if she holds it against me and not you.” explained Nick softly as he put a hand on his brother’s shoulder.

“Nick..”

“Heath, you and the others may be too close to her. Let me try.” urged Nick as he looked into his brother’s eyes.

Heath sighed, “Okay. I’ll wait here with the rest of the crew. Bring her back.”

“I will.” said Nick squeezing Heath’s shoulders before he walked out the door.

Chapter 62

Approaching the spot where Jack had lain, Sue’s throat tightened with emotion as she thought of Jack laying unconscious in her bedroom. ‘Get a grip, girl! You can help him by finding out whoever did this.’

Stopping Satan a hundred yards away, she climbed down with her rifle in her hand. Walking forward, she slowly looked around the area, taking note of the landscape. Picturing in her mind, where Jack had been when he was shot and with her naked eye seeking out the areas where the shooter may have waited.

Hearing a horse approach, she looked back and saw Nick Barkley riding up and dismounting by Satan. Sighing and curbing the anger inside her, she stopped waiting for him to catch up.

“Hi Sue.” said Nick softly. “The doc’s concerned that you might be too weak to be out here after the transfusion.”

Nick waited for a response. It seemed as if he wouldn’t get one when Sue spoke quietly, “I’m gonna track a weasel, Nick. You’re welcome to come along.”

“Maybe we should wait for the Sheriff?”

“Can’t. See those clouds over the mountains, they’ll be here before you know it. I’m gonna see what I can find before it rains. It’s the least I can do for Jack.”

Nick nodded, “Okay, but I’m gonna stay with you. No telling if the shooter’s still here.”

Sue started towards the nearest possible ambush sight with Nick by her side. Stopping, she held onto his arm and said, “Can ya’ walk behind me? I don’t want any tracks messed up.”

Nick smiled, “Sure. Be the first time I ever walked behind a woman, well, other than my mother.”

Nick was rewarded with a slight smile as Sue nodded before continuing, “Thanks.”

Nick kept an eye on his chameleon and the surrounding area in case the shooter was still in the vicinity. He watched as Sue methodically eliminated the possible hiding places of the culprit. She didn’t speak or indicate that he was even there as she continued the meticulous work. Her face paled as noon approached but she didn’t stop fearful that she wouldn’t find what she needed before the rains came.

Nick, concerned at her pallor broke his silence, “Sue, you’re not looking too good.”

“I know, Nick. If I don’t find something soon, Mother Nature will put a stop to the search.” Sue replied in an exhausted voice.

Nick, looking at the clouds rolling in, almost stepped on her when she knelt suddenly to look at the ground.

“Sorry.” said Nick.

“This is the spot.” said Sue as she pointed out the boot tracks to Nick. “See he walked over behind that deadfall.”

Nick listened as Sue followed the tracks to the tree laying in the grass.

“Nick, look here. See that boot track and he put his rifle on the top of the log here. You can tell by the scrap marks. They’re new cause they’re not weathered and there was a dew this morning. There’s no moisture in those scrap marks.”

Nick’s eyes picked up all the hints with Sue’s help. Kneeling, she picked a cartridge up from the ground and tossed it to Nick. “Forty four.”

Using the butt of her rifle to stand up, she looked at Nick and frowned, “I need to find where his horse was.”

Nick nodded as she backtracked the path the shooter had taken. Seeing the tracks led to a grove of trees, she cocked her rifle and Nick drew his gun from its holster.

Entering the grove, she stopped and pointed out the horse track to Nick. “See, this horse has a chip in his front left shoe.”

“Yeah, I see it Sue. What about it?”

Looking towards the mountains through the trees, she replied coldly. “Same one that was on the mountain, Nick. It’s the same bastard that shot at me.”

Chapter 63

Nick with a shocked look on his face, followed Sue’s gaze to the mountains. “Why would he shoot at you and Jack?”

“Don’t know. But he’s upping the ante of the game, Nick. By rights, Jack should be dead.” said Sue softly as she held onto his arm to steady herself as a wave of dizziness went through her.

“Com’on, lets get you home.” said Nick as he gently steered her back towards the horses. “We can tell Fred about the tracks and he can come out and see them for himself.”

Sue stumbled to her knees in the grass as her strength gave out and tears welled in her eyes. Nick kneeling in front of her, saw the emerald eyes filling with tears, “Are you hurt?”

Sue shook her head as the tears spilled over onto her cheeks. With her shoulders shaking as the sobs started, she asked Nick, “Why Jack? He’s a decent, caring man who would never hurt anyone. How could someone be so vile?”

“Jack’s gonna be fine, Sue.” said Nick softly as he brushed the tears from her cheeks.

“What if he goes after someone else I care about? Heath, Charity, the guys, you. Why can’t he just come after me and leave the people I care about alone?” gasped Sue, covering her eyes with her hands as the sobs wracked her body.

Nick wrapped his arms around his chameleon, as the dam holding her emotions in check, cracked and broke. Stroking her hair, he held her until the rushing waters had receded.

As she leaned into his body, spent from the emotional outpour, he said “We’ll find whoever’s doing this, Sue. Trust me.”

Sue nodded and wiped her face, smiled slightly. “Sorry for being so female, Nick.”

Nick chuckled as he helped her to her feet. He brushed his fingertips against the tracks her tears had taken, “I don’t mind you being so female.”

Sue’s skin was tingling from Nick’s touch, it burned through her soul causing her body temperature to rise. Looking in the hazel eyes, she smiled warmly. “Don’t get used to seeing that side of me too often.”

Laughing, Nick gave her a quick hug before picking up her rifle, “Can you make it to the horses if I stay by your side?”

Sue nodded as the warmth rushed through her again, “Sure.”

“You do know that when you get back to the ranch, the doc and the others are gonna give you an earful.” teased Nick as they walked up to Satan.

Sue rolled her eyes and chuckled “You’d think being the boss would give me some leeway!”

“Not with that bunch at the house.” stated Nick firmly as he helped her on Satan.

Sue leaned down, kissed Nick gently on the cheek and said softly, “Thanks Nick.”

Nick feeling the kiss all the way down to his toes, smiled and squeezed her hand. “Anytime, my dear.”

Chapter 63

John Travis crossed to the mantle. He picked up the tintype of his mother and lovingly caressed her face and stared into her eyes, “Soon I’ll have everything you wanted me to have, mother.”

Closing his eyes, he pictured her in front of him, watching his every move with those green eyes. He remembered her, not as the woman who controlled his every thought and action with verbal and physical abuse, but as the only woman who ever truly loved him. His mother, a mentally sick woman, had systematically over the years treated her son in a manner no mother should. She did it so she could be his sole focus in life. His obsession with her would be to everyone else in society, wrong. But to him it was as natural as the grass and trees. When his mother had died two years ago, he thought his world had ended. He longed for death and contemplated suicide so he could feel her loving caress again.

During a business trip to San Francisco, on an impulse, he had enlisted the services of a green-eyed prostitute, hoping she would fill the void within him. His anger escalated as he realized she wasn’t good enough to have been able to wipe his mother’s shoes. The darkness of his soul was revealed as he felt his hands squeezing the throat of the prostitute, her hands clawing at his arms, seeing the green eyes pleading silently for him to stop and watching them slowly close as her flow of air was cutoff. Dropping her to the floor like a rag doll, he felt the arousal in him that he hadn’t felt since his mother’s untimely death. His business trips became the cover for the times he needed to feel that way again.

When Sue Weston came to Stockton, the warped mind of John Travis eventually decided it was fate. Here was a strong willed woman, similar in his depraved mind to his mother, who ruled the men of her ranch. He would have her ranch, the precious liquid that flowed underneath her ranch and he would have her. He would be rich and she would satisfy the hunger within him. His obsession with her pushed him over the edge and there was no going back. His mind was gone, his actions impulsive and deadly.

Laughing, he recalled the shock on Barrett’s face when he grabbed him on both sides of his head before he snapped his neck. His anger at his inept partner fueling the moment. He didn’t need him anyway. He would capture the green eyed beauty his way and in his own time. His shooting of Jack Franklin was an act he had taken pleasure in. That was one less person she could count on.

Kissing the picture of his mother, he replaced it on the mantle and taking his binoculars left the mountain cabin as the rain started. Riding to his lookout post, he could watch her ranch without fear of discovery and await his opportunity.

Chapter 64

Sue Weston lay asleep in her guest room after her morning escape. When she and Nick had reappeared at the ranch, he helped her off Satan and up the stairs.

Holding her around the waist as he walked beside her, he chuckled when she stopped before the door, squared her shoulders and took a deep breath before entering.

Everyone looked up at her entrance, their angry words stifled in their throat from the paleness of her face and the redness of her eyes.

Dr. Merar, immune to her appearance, strongly lectured her as he forced her to drink some juice and eat some toast. When she had choked the items down, the doc ordered her to bed.

“I wanna see Jack” stated Sue as she rose, holding the table for support.

Howard groaned at the stubborn woman, “Fine, for a few seconds and that’s it.”

As Bill walked his boss to the kitchen door, she paused and looked back at her crew. “No one is to ride alone from now on. You ride in pairs at all times. This is an order.” she stated firmly as the men nodded in agreement. “Bill’s in charge til Jack’s back on his feet.”

Nick and Heath rose, “We’re going to the ranch to let Fred know what we found this morning.” Sue nodded before leaving the room with Bill.

Opening the door, Sue walked into her bedroom feeling the full force of Charity’s icy glare. Walking over to the bed, she gazed at her friend. Feeling his forehead, she frowned at the heat the man was emitting.

“He’s too hot.” she said softly “Has he woken yet?”

Charity, biting her cheek to keep her anger in check, retorted “If you’d been here then you’d know he hasn’t woken yet.”

Sighing, Sue put a cool washcloth on Jack’s forehead, “Charity, I know you’re upset.”

“Upset! Where have you been? What was so important?” snapped Charity at her friend.

Looking at Charity, Sue spoke calmly “I had to find out what I could about who did this to him. I knew he was in good hands with you and the doc.”

“You could have waited! What if he had died while you were out traipsing around? Do you know how upset everyone was when you took off? Don’t you think you should have used a little more sense than that?” replied Charity angrily.

“I love Jack like a brother. I can understand why you’re angry with me, but we each have to help him however we can. Keeping him alive, getting him back to the ranch and tracking whoever did this is what I do best. Your love for him is the best that you can do. He’ll feel it even though he’s unconscious. That’s what will keep him fighting.”

Walking to the door and blinking back the tears that threatened to fall again, Sue turned and sighed wearily, “So be angry with me if you want, at this point I don’t really care. No matter what you may think of my actions or even in you understand them just know that he was first and foremost in my thoughts.”

Charity stared at the door as it was closed behind Sue as she left. Hearing a weak chuckle, she looked down at the brown eyes gazing at her.

“She’s a handful” whispered Jack as Charity’s eyes filled with tears.

“Jack, I’ve been so worried.”

“I love you.” he whispered.

“I love you too, Jack.” she smiled. “I’m gonna get the doc.”

Charity opened the door and summoned the doctor. Howard entered and smiled at his patient.

“Nice to see you awake, Mr. Franklin. How are you feeling?”

“Weak as a kitten. What happened?” asked Jack as his face grimaced from the pain in his back.

After checking the sutures, Howard gave Jack some laudanum. “Here, this will help with the pain. Get some sleep, there’s plenty of time for questions later.”

Jack nodded as the medication took affect. His eyelids drooped and started to close with Charity’s smiling face lulled him to sleep.

Chapter 65

Fred having concluded his interview of the remainder of the Barkley family and ranch hands, was on his way back to Stockton when he ran into Heath and Nick.

“Fred, Sue found some tracks this morning where Jack was shot. They’re the same ones she found on the mountain when she was shot at.” explained Nick.

Fred nodded, “I’ll take a ride over and have a look at them on my way back to town.”

“Any luck on finding out what happened to Barrett?” asked Heath.

“No. None of the men could remember him being with anyone at the festival. It wasn’t robbery cause he still had his wallet.”

“If we find out anything, we’ll let you know.” said Nick as he and Heath continued onto the ranch.

Fred nodded as the brothers left and continued to the ambush sight. Finding the grove of trees that Nick described, Fred dismounted and knelt by the tracks. Frowning, he stared at the track, ‘I’ve seen this track before, but where?’ he thought.

Feeling the first drops of rain, Fred put on his slicker and headed back to Stockton, searching his memory as he rode.

Chapter 66

A week of tension filled days for the crew and boss of the ranch had passed since Jack Franklin was shot down on his way home. The waiting and the constant watching of the surrounding areas to prevent another attack had tempers flaring and words being said out of haste. The only brightness of the week was the steady improvement their foreman was making. His fever broken, Jack was still weak but rest and the healing process were slowly replenishing his strength along with the care he received from Charity and Maria.

Sunday morning, Sue was sitting on the porch, drinking a cup of coffee and watching Nick Barkley ride up the road.

Stopping in front of the house and dismounting, Nick smiled at the beauty before him “Good morning!”

“Morning Nick. What brings you out this early?” smiled Sue as Nick sat by her holding a picnic basket. “You on your way to a picnic?”

“No, this is for you.” said Nick softly as he handed her the basket.

“For me?” asked Sue softly as she opened the lid of the basket. Smiling, she lifted out the calico kitten.

“Oh, Nick, she’s beautiful! I just love kittens.” said Sue as she held the kitten to her chest and stroked its soft fur. The kitten relishing the touch on its back purred its contentment.

Gazing into the hazel eyes, Sue said softly. “Thank you Nick. No one’s ever given me a present when it wasn’t my birthday.”

Nick caressed her cheek and smiled, “How about an early morning ride? I was gonna check out the Swenson place to see what kind of grazing land it had on it. I wouldn’t mind some company.”

“I’d love to. Wait here while I put my kitten inside.” smiled Sue as she carried the precious bundle in the house.

When Sue emerged from the house, Nick walked with her to the barn and helped her saddle Rio. Seeing Hank, Sue walked over and told him she was going riding with Nick.

Nick and Sue rode leisurely towards the old Swenson place keeping up a steady stream of conversation. Stopping on a hill, Sue paused and looked at her riding companion “We’re all on edge Nick. I don’t like feeling as if I’m waiting for him to make his next move.”

Nick nodded, “I know what you mean. Fred has looked all over town for a horse with that shoe, but he hasn’t found it yet. He can’t remember where he saw it, but he’s fairly certain it was in town.”

“Well, at least that narrows it down somewhat.” sighed Sue.

Nick, reached over and squeezed her hand, “Hey, you’re on the open range with me, how about if you try to forget it and just enjoy the scenery.”

Laughing, Sue grinned, “Sounds like a plan to me, even though this is not open range, its my range.”

Nick chuckled as they walked their horses down the hill and continued on slowly.

Looking over at Sue, Nick smiled “So, how is it you know how to track so well?”

Sue laughed and told Nick about her upbringing, especially about Haavi who taught her many things about the Yaqui culture and their way of life. Hearing a noise, Sue stopped and looked at Nick. “Hear that?”

Nick cocked his head sideways and listened, “Yeah it’s a calf. Sounds like he’s scared or something.”

Sue nudged Rio forward towards the noise with Nick riding alongside, “We haven’t fully explored this side of the range yet. We’ve been sticking pretty close to home.”

“Sounds like its coming from that area over there.” said Nick as he pointed to a grassy area in front of the mountains.

Riding up they saw the calf struggling to free itself from the dark liquid that had grabbed onto its legs. Pulling up, Nick tied his rope around the saddlehorn as Sue walked to the calf talking quietly, “Its okay little one. We’re gonna help you get free.” Putting the rope around its neck, Nick backed up Coco as Sue pushed on the calf. Slowly the calf made its way out of the deathtrap.

Sue sat on the ground exhausted from the exertion as Nick untied the calf and sent it on its way with a swat on the backside. Sitting by her, they stared at the black liquid.

“Black Gold. Now we know why he wants the ranch. This stuff’s worth a fortune.” said Sue quietly.

Nick rose, pulled Sue to her feet, drew her into his arms and said quietly, “Let’s go tell Fred what we found.”

Sue and Nick turned their horses towards Stockton, unaware they were being watched from afar.

Chapter 67

Stopping in front of the sheriff’s office, Sue and Nick dismounted. Seeing Dan Baldwin across the street, Sue called over to him.

“Nick, I need to talk to Dan. Can you tell Fred what we found? I’ll be back in a few minutes.” smiled Sue as Nick nodded.

“Okay, but don’t leave town without me.” said Nick as he watched her walk with Dan into his office.

Entering the office, Nick was greeted by Fred who was pouring himself a cup of coffee.

“Want some, Nick?”

“Sure. Sue and I were riding and came across a calf stuck in some petroleum on her land.”

Whistling, Fred sat down, “No wonder this guy hasn’t let up. That stuff could make a fellar rich.”

Nick frowned, “Yeah, it could. Find anything out about that track.”

Shaking his head, Fred sighed, “No. I’m waiting for Hans, the blacksmith to see me. He’s been visiting his in-laws and just got back last night. He should be here any minute.”

“I’ll just wait with ya’ if you don’t mind.” said Nick as he sat down in one of the chairs. “Sue’s over at Dan Baldwin’s office, she should be here shortly.”

The men conversed quietly between them until the door opened. Heath walked in with Hans following “Hi Sheriff, you wanted to see me?”

Heath surprised at seeing his brother said, “Nick, what are you doing here? I thought you went over to the Swenson place”

“Sue and I were riding over there when we found the reason someone wants her off the ranch.” said Nick quietly.

Fred held up his hand, “First things first, Nick. Hans, do you know of anyone in town whose horse has a small chip in its front left shoe?”

“Sure, it’s the bankers.” said Hans as he watched the men look at each other.

“John Travis?” asked Fred quietly. “Are you sure?”

Hans nodded, “I was supposed to reshoe his horse when I got back, why?”

“Thanks, Hans.” said Fred as he walked him to the door “Don’t say anything about this to anyone, understand?”

“Sure, Sheriff. Anything you say.” agreed Hans as he left wondering what was happening.

When Hans left, Heath turned to Nick, “What’d you find?”

“There’s petroleum on her land.” said Nick to a shocked Heath “We came into town to let Fred know. Right now, she’s with Dan Baldwin”.

Fred stood and grabbed a rifle, “Lets go find Travis and ask him some questions. You two are now deputized.”

The brothers followed Fred out of the office.

“Wait, I have to let Sue know what’s happening.” said Nick.

Heath nodded, “Nick, why don’t you just stay with her? Fred and I’ll find Travis.”

“That’s a good idea.” agreed Fred “Let’s go Heath.”

Heading over to the office of Dan Baldwin’s, Nick knocked. When there was no answer, he entered. Walking into the room, he saw Sue laying on the floor with her hands tied. Hearing a faint whisper of noise on the carpet, he turned, saw the banker in the mirror before he was struck in the head and was unconscious when he hit the floor.

Chapter 68

John Travis, having returned from a trip to Modesto for supplies, was on his way to his observation post when he saw the two riders. Following them, he watched as Nick Barkley reached over and took her hand. Anger swelled in him as he watched that intimate gesture from afar.

He watched as the pair pulled the calf from the petroleum. When Nick pulled Sue up and took her in his arms, Travis growled “Get your hands off her, Barkley.”

Seeing them head towards Stockton, Travis headed to his shortcut and was watching from the corner of the saloon when Dan and Sue entered Baldwin’s office. Seeing Nick enter the sheriff’s office, he casually walked up the street towards the attorney’s office, quietly opened the door and stepped in.

Hearing the voices from the inner office, Travis waited listening to the conversation taking place.

“I’ll just be a minute, Dan. I just want to get some of this stuff off my hands.” said Sue as she walked into the outer room.

Heading to the water closet, she was grabbed from behind, her screams stifled by the cloth that was held over her nose and mouth. Grabbing at the forearms that held her, she kicked backwards with her boots connecting with the legs of the intruder, until the chemical entered her system, rendering her unconscious and her hands fell limply to her side.

Dan called out to his client as he poured himself a coffee, “Do you want some coffee, Sue?” When she didn’t answer, he walked into the outer office not seeing the banker waiting behind the door as the world came crashing down on him.

Smiling, Travis walked over to where Sue lay. Tying her hands and feet, he reached down to gather his precious bundle. Hearing a knock at the door, Travis hid and hit the man in the head with his gun butt when he walked towards the woman laying on the floor. Seeing, it was Nick Barkley on the floor, Travis kicked him in the side as he lay there, smiling as he felt the ribs caving in.

Walking over, he gathered his bundle, wrapped her in a slicker, threw a lamp against the curtains on the window and left the office through the back door as the flames hungrily licked at the curtains and walls.

As the flames climbed the curtains and the wall of the office, a groan could be heard over the crackling and rumble.

Chapter 69

Holding the back of his head, Nick climbed to his knees. Coughing as the smoke entered his lungs, his burning eyes looked to where Sue had been before he was struck. His eyes were greeted by flames eating away at the empty spot on the carpet. She was gone.

Staggering to his feet, he looked around for Dan Baldwin. Seeing the lawyer laying outside of his inner office, Nick dragged him to the door through the smoke.

Stumbling outside, as he coughed and his eyes watered from the smoke, Dan was taken from him and unknown hands on his arms guided him to the opposite side of the street.

Heath and Fred walked back from the house of John Travis. The banker was not home and from the looks of the place, he hadn’t been there for some time.

Hearing a shout of “Fire” as the fire wagon rushed by them, the two ran towards the main street to see flames flowing out of the windows of Dan Baldwin’s office.

Heath rushed over to see Dan laying unconscious and Nick sitting on the ground with Dr. Merar attending to them. Looking around, he searched for his friend Sue Weston.

Jarrod, Victoria and Audra on their way to the Cattleman’s for dinner, jumped out of the surrey and rushed over to Nick.

“Victoria, Nick has some cracked ribs and a bump on his head. He took in some smoke, but he’ll be okay.” said Howard smiling.

“Nick, where’s Sue?” asked Heath frantically kneeling by his brother, “She’s not in there, is she?”

Coughing and causing the pain in his head to flare, Nick winced “She’s not in the building. Travis has her.”

Heath sighed with relief as he grabbed Nick and hugged him, eliciting a grunt of pain, from his brother. “I was afraid she was in there. We gotta find her! There’s no telling what he’s gonna do.”

Nick, holding his arm against his side, tried to stand. Looking at his little brother, he grinned, “Help me up, Heath.”

Heath helped Nick to his feet as Jarrod confused at the turn of events, questioned “What do you mean Travis has her? John Travis?”

Nick nodded, “Yeah, it was his tracks that Sue saw on the mountain and he’s responsible for shooting Jack. Sue and I found petroleum on her land this morning when we were riding. Jarrod, we gotta go and get her back.”

Jarrod, noting the pain in Nick’s face said softly, “You can’t ride in your condition, Nick. We’ll find her and bring her back.”

Nick grunted, “I can do it pappy. I’ll just have the doc tape my ribs before we go.”

Victoria who was silent during her sons’ conversation, put her hand on Nick’s arm, “You can’t help her if one of those ribs goes through a lung, Nick.”

“I’m fine Mother.”

“Nick, think of Sue’s welfare. You don’t want to be slowing the men down when they look for her, do you?” asked Victoria softly.

Nick frowned and sighed deeply, “Maybe you’re right mother. I wanna find her, not be a burden.”

Heath smiled as he hugged his brother gently and whispered in his ear, “I’ll bring your chameleon back for ya’, Nick.”

Nick grinned, grabbed the back of Heath’s neck and gave him a little shake, “See that you do, boy!”

Fred came up to the Barkley family, “We found a trail behind Dan’s office. Let’s go.”

Nick, Audra and Victoria watched as Jarrod and Heath left with the sheriff and a group of men to find the kidnapper and his victim.

“Mother, we better ride out to the ranch and let her men know.” said Nick as he slowly walked his mother and Audra to the surrey. “Let’s pick up Rio and Coco first.”

Victoria nodded and climbed into the surrey. Smiling at Nick, she said “They’ll find her Nick.”

Chapter 70

John Travis, with the bundle in his arms, mounted his horse and rode away from Stockton at a leisurely pace. Turning his horse into a stream, he followed it for a few miles, before he saw a rocky spot where he could climb out. After leaving the stream, he continued on steadily and surely, changing his direction using every trick he knew of to hide his trail.

Feeling confident that no one would be able to follow, he turned his horse towards the mountain and started for the cabin he had built there. Climbing down, he carried the bundle in and placed it gently on the bed. Taking his horse to the corral in the back, he striped it of its saddle and bridle. Giving it some fresh water and grain, he walked back into the cabin.

Travis sat on the edge of the bed and unwrapped the slicker. He gently caressed Sue’s face, took off her gag and ran his fingertips gently down her arms. Stopping at her wrists, he untied her hands grimacing at the cuts the ropes had created in her skin. His hands moved down her legs to her ankles. Untying those ropes, he sat and admired her beauty.

Walking to the stove, he made a pot of coffee and sat at the table drinking a cup as he waited for her to awaken. Hearing a subtle noise, he saw her head move and a moan came from her full lips.

Dizziness met her as she moved her head, the pain causing a moan to leave her lips. Unsure of what had happened, she tried to work her way through the murkiness her thoughts appeared to be languishing in. Her stomach threatened to revolt as the nausea rose when the level of her awareness rose. The pounding in her head increased as she slowly opened her eyes. Looking around at the unfamiliar surroundings, she gingerly sat up and held her throbbing head in her hands. The hair on the back of her neck rose as she felt the eyes bearing down on her.

Looking up, she saw John Travis calmly sitting at a table, drinking coffee and staring at her. “Miss Weston, I trust you will find these accommodations to your liking.”

Sue blinked and stared back at the man as her head pounded and whispered. “What accommodations are you talking about?”

Walking over to her, Travis stopped in front of her, “The accommodations of where you’ll be staying for a short visit, of course.”

Frightened by the look in his eyes, Sue smiled, “I’m sure they’re gonna be just fine.”

Travis smiling back, caught off-guard by her warm smile and comment, fell to the floor in pain when Sue swung her leg up catching him in the groin with her boot.

She struggled to stay upright on her feet as she stumbled to the door with the pounding in her head intensifying. Fumbling with the latch, she opened the door as he grabbed her from behind and threw her across the room to crash against the wall and land on the floor unconscious.

Travis sat in a chair, moaning from the pain in his groin as anger welled within him. Staring at the woman laying on the floor, he made his way to her. Grabbing her hair, he jerked her head back to ensure she was unconscious. Taking the rope, he retied her hands and feet leaving her on the floor.

Chapter 71

Hank and Curly were watching Davey lasso a horse as the Barkleys drove the surrey into the ranch yard. Seeing, Rio tied up to the back of the surrey, the three men ran over.

“Where’s the boss?” asked Davey anxiously.

Hank, seeing the pain on Nick’s face, asked. “You okay Nick?”

Nick nodded, “John Travis has her. He’s the one causing all the problems.”

Curly helped Victoria and Audra down, “Come in. Jack and the other guys are gonna want to hear this.”

Sitting in the bedroom where Jack was recuperating, Nick told them of the events of the morning. “Jarrod and Heath went with the sheriff to bring her back. They picked up the trail behind Dan’s office building.”

Jack sighed with frustration, “Dammit. She had a feeling she couldn’t trust that guy. And to think I teased her about being Mrs. Travis!”

Charity smiled at Jack, “You two tease each other all the time. She’ll be fine.”

Nick grinned, “Mother, I’m gonna wait here with Jack. Why don’t you head back to the ranch?”

Victoria smiled as she gave Nick a hug, “Okay, but I don’t want you riding any horses with those ribs.”

“Curly, will you see that Mrs. Barkley and Audra get home okay?” asked Jack.

“Sure, Jack.” said Curly as he led the ladies from the room and out to the surrey.

Hank stood, “I think I’ll take a ride and look that part of the ranch over.”

Jack smiled as the others stood stating they were going to tag along. “Davey, you can track them and find our boss. Also, see if there’s any weasels that need killing.”

Jack hearing their horses galloping off thought, ‘Travis had better not harm one hair on her head.’

“So Nick, I hear you brought the boss a present this morning,” teased Jack as Nick’s face reddened.

Chapter 72

Heath and Jarrod were frustrated as the posse lost the trail of John Travis again. Travis entering the stream had slowed the progress of the group of men immensely. Splitting up in four groups, the men had to comb the river, upstream and downstream. Men rode on both sides of the river to find where he had left the water. Hearing the shots fired in the air, they raced to where the others had picked up the trail. Following the trail, it was lost when the tracks combined with some cattle tracks.

Heath looked at his eldest brother “We’re taking too long Jarrod.”

“I know Heath, but they’re doing the best they can.” sighed Jarrod as he watched Fred and his deputy trying to locate the trail of John Travis.

“I don’t like to think of Sue in the hands of Travis.” said Heath darkly. “I can’t believe it was him all this time.”

“It scares me too, Heath.” replied Jarrod softly.

Fred rode back to the group of men, “We’re gonna have to split up and search for the trail.”

“Fred, Heath and I are gonna start from where Nick and Sue found the petroleum. Maybe we can find some tracks and go from there.” said Jarrod.

“Okay, but be careful. No telling what he’ll do next.” said Fred as he left with the other men.

Heath looked at Jarrod with a puzzled expression, “Why are we gonna look over there?”

“Brother Heath, lets look at all the facts as we know them. One – Travis shot at Sue on the mountain. Two – He was a friend of Abe Henderson and so was probably quite familiar with this area. Three – He must have stumbled upon the petroleum during one of his visits to Henderson. Four – He didn’t know Sue was going to be in town, so he either followed Nick and Sue this morning or he just happened to see them in town. I think he saw them find the petroleum and followed them to town, saw his opportunity and took it.” explained Jarrod.

“I think you could use that power of deduction to make a fine lawyer someday.” teased Heath as he smiled widely, the hope shining in his eyes. “Let’s go!”

Jarrod laughed as he galloped after Heath and Charger.

Chapter 73

Sue gasped as her first awareness was of the pain radiating throughout her body. Shaking her head gingerly, she opened her eyes and bit back the moan that started to rise from her throat. Trying to raise her right hand, she realized her wrists were tied together. Looking down, she saw her feet were tied in a similar manner. Using her hands, she pushed herself up and back against the wall, closing her eyes against the pounding in her head.

Travis watched as Sue pushed herself up and leaned against the wall. Walking over, he knelt to the side of her. Reaching over he brushed the hair away, revealing the green eyes that were watching him, “Miss Weston, if you cooperate it will be much more enjoyable.”

“Go to hell.”

Travis sent the side of her head into the wall with a backhand across her cheek. Grabbing her hair, he forced her to look at him as her emerald eyes welled with tears from the force of his hand.

“Why are you making this an unpleasant occasion. We have much to celebrate, Miss Weston.”

Sue stared into the eyes of the madman and felt a chill blow through her soul. These were the eyes of a man tittering on the edge of insanity. The eyes of a man who no longer conducted himself in society’s boundaries. These were the eyes of the darkness of humanity.

When Sue didn’t answer, Travis gently caressed her check with his fingertips and murmured, “Don’t you want to know what we’re celebrating?”

Sue, swallowed the lump in her throat, forcing herself to answer, “Okay.”

Travis stared deeply into her green eyes as he ran his fingers down the side of her throat and over her breasts. Feeling the arousal in him, he smiled. “We are going to enter into a partnership.”

Sue shuddered as his fingers continued their exploration. Closing her eyes to shut out the sight of him, Travis angrily twisted his left hand in her hair and grabbed her face tightly with his right hand. “Look at me!”

Sue, opened her eyes and gasped from the pain, “I want to see your eyes, understand?”

Sue nodded and he released his hold on her face. Grabbing the ropes tied around her wrists, he pulled her to her feet, picked her up and laid her on the bed. Sitting beside her, he caressed her as he stared into her eyes. Seeing the look of hunger and possessiveness in his eyes, Sue rolled to get away from him.

Travis laughed as he grabbed the rope and yanked her back to him. “You’re not going anywhere, my little green eyed beauty.” Laying across her upper body to hold her down, he grabbed her hair and held her still as he brought his lips crashing down onto hers.

Kicking her legs, Sue tried to dislodge the larger body that was holding her in place as he smashed her lips with his. Using her fingers, she grabbed his skin through his shirt twisting it until he yelped in pain. Releasing her head, he jumped back from her, stumbled and landed sitting on the floor beside the bed. Swinging her legs, she struck Travis in the side of his face with her boots. Falling sideways from the blow, he struck his head on floor and lay stunned.

Grabbing a vase as she slid off the bed, Sue smashed it down onto the back of his head as he lay on the floor. Crawling to the table, she grabbed a knife, cut the ropes off her ankles and stood up.

Travis lunged towards her and fell to the floor as she stumbled out of his way, loosing her grip on the knife, it slid across the floor. Not seeing her gun, she grabbed the edge of the table and turned it over onto Travis. Throwing open the door, she ran towards the trees.

Travis stumbled out from beneath the table, headed to the door with his pistol and fired at the fleeing woman. Holding his hand to his head, he stared at the blood on his hand when he pulled it away.

“That bitch!” he screamed. Wrapping a bandage around his head, he grabbed his rifle and went to saddle his horse to find her.

Heath and Jarrod had met up with Sue’s crew who were following Davey as he tracked Travis’ horse from the petroleum sight. The tracks led them to a hidden path that headed up the mountains.

The men making their way up the mountains stopped as the faint echo of a shot was heard between the hills. Looking around at the others, Hank stated “I think we should just keep following the trail. Its bound to lead us to them.”

Everyone nodded and Davey continued leading them as he followed the tracks in front of him. Each man’s face grim as the different scenarios ran through their minds. Stopping, Davey dismounted when the tracks had faded out. Looking around and not finding any indication, he cursed as frustration mounted within him.

“What’s the matter?” asked Heath as he watched the young wrangler.

“The trail just disappeared! All of a sudden it stops!” said Davey angrily as he stared at the two different routes in front of him.

“Let’s split up. Jarrod and I will take the trail on the left, you guys take the right.” said Heath as the others agreed. Heath started up the trail with Jarrod following.

Chapter 74

Sue ran towards the trees, her fear of the madman behind her propelling her feet to move faster. Her heart pounding furiously, she reached the treeline as the red hot poker slammed into her shoulder. Falling forward onto her knees, she pushed herself up and continued to run down the side of the mountain. The only thought in her mind was the desire to escape the clutches of Travis.

Ignoring the branches slapping her face and body, she gasped for air as she pushed herself on and on. Stumbling, she fell to her knees. Forcing herself to stand, she pushed on down the mountain, gasping for air. Looking back over her shoulder she stepped in a hole, feeling the pain shooting up her left leg, as she held onto it and rolled on the ground.

Crying silently from the pain in her leg and shoulder, she forced herself to stifle the moans of agony that were threatening to leave her throat. Gasping from the pain as she lay on the ground, Sue struggled to bring her thoughts from a jumbled mess into cohesiveness and order.

Her throat was dry from lack of water, her right shoulder throbbed in tune with her head and her left ankle she knew was either badly sprained or broken. Seeing the blood running down her hand, she took the bandana from her throat and pushed it under her shirt over the bullet wound.

Looking up at the darkening sky, she mumbled “What first? Find a weapon. Get these ropes off. Then find a crutch, since you had to step in that damn hole. Then get your ass off this mountain.”

‘No problem’ she thought sarcastically as she gingerly pushed herself to a sitting position. Glancing around the area she was in, Sue saw a branch laying on the ground. Pulling herself over to it, she picked it up and examined it as she laid on her stomach. Deciding it would suit her purpose, she examined the ropes on her wrists. Closing her eyes as a wave of dizziness hit, she mentally scolded herself ‘Come on. Stay with it. No one’s here to help you.’

Opening her eyes when the dizziness subsided, she used her teeth and worked on freeing her hands. Her lips hurting from Travis, started bleeding as the rope scraped them. Pausing to catch her breath and shivering as the temperature dropped, her eyes caught a glimpse of movement further down the mountain. Staying still, she strained to see in the fading light. Happiness flared through her as she could make out the outlines of men on horses.

She opened to mouth to shout and shut it just as quickly as she remembered the severity of her position. ‘I can’t yell, Travis might hear me. I’m just gonna have to make it down to them.’ Grabbing her weapon, she started crawling down to the men as the dizziness and darkness came and the cold bit at her skin.

Chapter 75

Travis saddled his horse and rode to the treeline where Sue ran to, his eyes widening in surprise when he didn’t see her body laying on the ground.

Dismounting, he shook his head as he thought angrily ‘I know I hit her’. Walking slowly around the area, he smiled as he saw drops of blood on the ground.

Taking the reins of his horse, he walked slowly as he followed her by the drops of blood. Stopping he tied his horse to a branch when the trees became too dense for the horse to follow. He continued on slowly watching for the green eyed beauty. The anticipation in him rising as he thought of her in his hands.

His warped thoughts running through his mind, ‘I’m sorry mama. It could have been so wonderful if she hadn’t been so unwilling. I could have given her everything. I really tried. But before I’m through with Miss Weston, I will take everything from her and leave just an empty shell behind.’

He continued on following the trail, stopping suddenly he knelt, frowning as he watched the movement of men on horses further down the mountain. With the darkness closing in, he stopped, trying to decide which course of action to take.

‘I don’t want to miss her in the dark and she can’t go far with that wound.’ Making his way back to his horse, he grabbed his bedroll. Heading back to where he ended his search, he wrapped his blanket around his shoulders, hunkered down and fell asleep. His dreams and nightmares were of the girl who, unbeknownst to him, was just shy of a half mile away.

Chapter 76

Sue continued her slow downward trek towards the low-lying flickering star. Her whole body felt as if it were on fire, bruised and sore. Her ankle throbbed unmercifully, her left shoulder not fully recovered from the prior injury and her right throbbed offbeat of her ankle. Her body shivered uncontrollably from the fever that was ravaging it and the cold temperatures.

Her will to live compounded by her fear of what was behind her was the driving force behind her descent down the mountain. She had always been a survivor, a leader, a doer and never a follower. She had never been passive in anything and wouldn’t start to be so now. She had always enjoyed life and worked hard for what she had.

But her strength was fading, the loss of blood and the shock of the injuries were threatening to rob her of action. As she lay on her stomach gasping for air, she wanted to close her eyes. “It would be so easy to lay here and rest for a while” she thought tempted by this one little action that would be the end of her.

“Get up girl” she heard her father say softly.

“Can’t daddy. hurts.”

“You’ve hurt before, now get up!” commanded her father sharply. “Do it!”

Tears ran down Sue’s face as she willed her body to move forward an inch at a time. She had never directly disobeyed her father and wouldn’t start now. The pain was overwhelming her senses and was all she felt as she struggled slowly.

Stopping and gasping, she glanced down and felt despair when she realized how much further she had to go. The sweat from her exertions and fever mixed with the tears on her cheeks as she lowered her head to rest.

“Wai, rise” whispered a deep voice. “Little sister, rise.”

“Haavi?”

“Si, Wai. Papa and Haavi acqui.”

“Don’t let him win, daughter. Haavi and I are here, now crawl.”

She knew they were both dead and her mind couldn’t make any sense out of it. How can I hear them? Why can’t I see them? Where are they? But she started crawling as she lost all sense of time and her surroundings as her father and Haavi urged her on.

Chapter 77

Jarrod looked across the small fire and saw Heath’s eyes with a far away look in them. Heath had wanted to continue searching, but had admitted grudgingly that Jarrod was right, they wouldn’t be able to see anything in the dark and it was better to start out at first light. First light was only a hour away, neither of the brothers had been able to sleep, their thoughts consumed by the welfare of Sue Weston in the hands of John Travis.

Jarrod feeling as if he failed his brother, spoke softly “Heath, we’ll find her. We’re not gonna give up.”

Nodding, Heath replied, “I know Jarrod. It’s just frustrating.”

“Maybe Davey and the others have already found her.”

“One of the guys would’ve let us know. Somehow, I know we’re closer. I can feel it in my gut.” Looking up through the trees at the stars, Heath sighed, “Sue and I used to lay on her range in Texas and look at the stars. Did I tell you that?”

Jarrod smiled, “No. You never told us that.”

Chuckling, Heath smiled “Yep, her father used to just shake his head at us when she’d say ‘We’re going window shopping, daddy’.”

“Window shopping?” asked Jarrod curiously.

“Yeah, she always said the stars seemed closer to the land in Texas. She felt like she was close enough to grab them, but the window of the sky stood in the way. Just like when ya are downtown, peekin’ in the shop windows. You’re close enough to grab it but the window’s in the way. Of course, with Sue, we always looked in the gun shops or the leather shops.” chuckled Heath.

Jarrod joined Heath as he laughed, “I’ve seen the stars at night in Texas. I’d say she was right. You’re lucky to have such a wonderful and caring friend, Heath.”

“I’m lucky to know her. She told me once that she thought we were destined to be friends by fate.” said Heath softly.

“By fate? How could that be?”

“I didn’t have a father growing up and she didn’t have a mother. We used to have long discussions about what we both thought we missed out on growing up.”

“You had long discussions with someone Heath?” teased Jarrod who was awarded with the lopsided grin of his normally quiet brother.

“Yeah, she’d tell me what it was like with her father growing up and I’d tell her how it was with mama, Aunt Rachel and Hannah.”

“I know we said the past is the past, Heath.” said Jarrod softly “I wish you could have known father.”

“Yeah, me too. I listen to you all talk about him and I feel as if I know him a little.” admitted Heath as he sat up quickly. “Nick, what ya’ doing here?”

Jarrod jumped and looked around, “Nick!”

Leading Coco, he walked him over to Jingo and Charger and tied him up. Sitting on a log by the fire, he poured a cup of coffee as his brothers took notice of the sweat on his brow and his pallor.

Heath said quietly, “You shouldn’t have rode here with your ribs.”

Nick sighed, “I couldn’t wait anymore. Harold came back to the ranch when his horse threw a shoe. He told Jack and I where the trail had led. I’m not sitting around while Travis has her.”

Jarrod smiled as he nodded, “Wait til Mother finds out. She’ll skin you alive.”

Grinning, Nick replied, “Probably. As long as Sue’s okay when we get her back, its worth it.”

Heath shook his head, “Did I tell you what Nick did this morning?”

Jarrod smiled, “No, you didn’t. Did he make it through breakfast before growling at someone?”

Heath chuckled at Jarrod’s question and the blush on Nick’s face, “No, he growled at me during breakfast. He brought Sue a kitten this morning.”

Jarrod looked at Nick with a wide eyed look, “You actually picked up a cat? What color is it?”

“It’s a calico kitten.” said Nick quietly as he remembered the happiness in her eyes.

“I’ve a feeling she’s close, Nick.” said Heath as he stood up to saddle Charger as first light approached.

Chapter 78

Davey and the crew, started out at first light, riding up their trail. The faces of the men weary from lack of sleep, worry and the troubled thoughts of how their boss was fairing.

They had spent a long evening around the fire. Each of them keeping their thoughts to themselves. Their hearts warmed by their experiences with the woman they were proud to call boss and friend. They each had dark thoughts of how they would deal with the man who had stolen her from them.

When Davey suddenly stopped, the group halted and followed with their eyes in the direction his finger was pointing.

“A roof over there, through the trees.” said Davey as he dismounted excited at the possibilities this discovery held.

The others seeing the roof, also dismounted. Walking their horses closer, they stopped and tied them to trees along the trail. Taking their rifles, they formed a circle to decide how to proceed.

Hank pointed to Pedro and Bill, “See if you can work yourselves to the rear of the cabin and get a look inside. We need to see how many are in there.”

“Davey, Curly and me will wait here and work ourselves closer to the front.” said Hank as the others nodded in agreement.

Pedro and Bill, left using the cover of the trees to work their way slowly closer to the backside of the cabin. When they reached it, they could see the cabin was built so it was back into the trees and out of sight. Pedro walked up to the side of a window and he cautiously looked inside.

“It’s empty.” called Pedro to Bill as he walked to the front door and opened it.

The others, seeing Pedro, rushed to the cabin and met Bill as they reached the front door. Entering they saw Pedro standing to the side looking at the gun he held in his hand.

“It’s the boss’,” said Pedro quietly as the others glanced at the room strewn with items leaving no doubt to them that their boss had fought with Travis.

“Davey, see if you can locate any tracks.” said Bill as he knelt to examine the ropes on the floor. Holding them out to Hank, he said “These were cut off with a knife.”

Curly took the ropes from Hank, “Think the Barkleys cut them?”

“No, if they’d found her, one of them would’ve let us know.” explained Bill. “I think it was the boss who cut them.”

Davey burst through the front door, “She got away, but she’s hurt! Come on, he’s following her!”

The men ran outside and got their horses as Davey let them to where the tracks started at the treeline.

Curly grabbed Davey’s arm as he started for the trees, “Wait Davey! We gotta do this smart. We don’t want Travis to shoot us like he did Jack, that wouldn’t help the boss any.”

“He’s right. Davey, you can track ‘em but we gotta be quiet and keep an eye out for that son of a bitch.” growled Hank. “Bill, why don’t you and Curly go further down the trail. We don’t wanna miss her in case she only went into the trees to get away from him for a while.”

“Okay, whoever finds her should fire three shots in the air, so that we’ll know.” said Bill as he and Curly started down the trail.

Hank and Pedro followed Davey as he tracked Travis into the trees and down the side of the mountain.

Chapter 79

Shrugging his blanket off when there was enough light to see, Travis stood and followed the dark spots on the ground. His mind anticipating the moment he would catch up with the green eyed woman. He had spent a night aroused by his dreams and tormented by his nightmares.

Pausing he stopped and looked around for the blood trail that had disappeared. Frowning, he knelt and examined the ground closely as frustration mounted within. After several minutes, he was unable to find any more spots of blood.

‘Where is she?’ he thought angrily as he continued down the mountain. His eyes watching for a splash of the blue shirt in the neutral forest color scheme. Seeing none, he knelt suddenly by a tree as he glimpsed two men walking up the side of the mountain amongst the trees, towards where he was hidden. Staring at them, he realized it was Nick and Heath Barkley.

Panic rose within him as he looked around for a place to hide until they passed. Seeing none and not willing to be caught, he slowly backed up the way he had come. Keeping an eye on the men in front of him as he made his way to a dense tree area. Turning, he froze as he saw two other men tracking him from the place he was the night before. Edging sideways as he watched them, he made his way slowly out of their line of sight. Continuing in the other direction, he walked until he felt he was out of their range of sight.

Frustration screamed in his mind as he realized he had narrowly escaped being captured by the men looking for Sue Weston. He fought down the desire to throw caution to the wind and continue his search. Knowing this would be suicide, he sat down to contemplate his next step.

Realizing he could let the other men do the work of finding her, he smiled.

‘Then all I have to do is take her from them.’

Chapter 80

Pedro, hidden in the trees had stayed behind to watch Travis’ horse, in case he made his way back there with his boss. Davey and Hank continued tracking the man who had taken their friend.

“He spent the night here.” said Davey as they came upon the blanket Travis discarded. “Fresh tracks.”

Hank knelt and looked at them with the young wrangler, “He’s close. I’ll keep a lookout while you follow the tracks.”

Davey nodded and continued doing his part to get their boss back. Stopping, he looked at the tracks frowning, “He was here a little while ago.”

Movement down the mountain caught his eye and looking he saw the Barkleys coming uphill to them. Waving, he caught Heath’s eye and his friend waved back. Hank and Davey waited until Nick and Heath reached them.

“Anything?” asked Heath.

Davey nodded, “We found the cabin where he kept her.”

Nick, unsure of how to read the look on the wrangler’s face, asked quietly. “What else?”

“Looks like there was a fight. The boss is hurt but she got away.” replied Hank, “Travis has been following the blood drops to find her.”

“Yeah, she’s got a hurt left leg. You can see where she pushes forward using her right foot. It’s a good thing Travis can’t track or he’d of seen the drag marks.” said Davey as he knelt and pointed them out to the others.

“Can you find her Davey?” questioned Heath as Davey nodded.

“Let’s go get her, boys.” said Nick as Hank caught the concerned look in Nick’s eyes.

Hank put a giant hand on Nick’s shoulder and squeezed gently, “She’ll be okay Nick, you’ll see.”

Smiling slightly, Nick nodded and squeezed the hand of the gentle man before following Davey and Heath.

Stopping, Davey gestured to the stand of deadfalls, “This is the end of the trail.”

Chapter 81

The night air chilled her as the fever warmed her, shaking and shivering, she struggled on. Unaware of anything around her except the fear that plagued her subconscious, the voices kept pushing her on and on. The pain was her constant companion. Dizziness and fever ravaged through her but she was not aware enough to take notice of them.

The voices guided her slow movements through the darkness of the night. Her hands felt their way through the trees and undergrowth around her. Over logs and through bushes, she continued. The voices telling her she needed to find a hiding place.

‘Remember the teachings’ the deep voice would say. Mumbling in Yaqui, she answered her teacher and crawled onward, an inner voice stopping her when she reached the deadfalls as the first light was rising in the mountains. Staring at the trees, she heard her teacher whisper, ‘Staying in one place does not leave a trail for a person to follow.”

Crawling to the opening, her hand closed on a rock and holding onto it, she crawled into the natural shelter. Burrowing under the fallen leaves that had gathered in the deadfall, she clutched the rock, as her awareness slipped away.

Nagging at her subconscious was the sound of footsteps, her mind reacting as if it were treading water and her eyes refusing to open. Feeling hands on her body, her instinct for survival caused her hand to lash out as her shoulder screamed from the movement.

The rock connected as the fear and panic overwhelmed her. Her legs kicked at the unknown hands, agony shooting through her as the injured limb protested the treatment. Blackness came crashing down from the protest and she was oblivious to the cursing outside the deadfalls.

Holding his head, Davey backed out of the opening to the deadfalls, cursing as the blood ran down the side of his face.

“What happened?” asked Hank as he held a bandana to the wound that was rapidly turning black, blue and purple.

Davey winced as Heath and Nick watched, “She’s in there alright. When I tried to grab her to pull her out, she swung at me.”

Nick knelt and looked into the opening, “What was she saying? I couldn’t understand it.”

Studying the deadfalls, Heath replied, “I think she’s talking in Yaqui. If we move these top logs, we should be able to reach in and lift her out.”

Two men grabbed each end of the logs and lifted. Putting the logs on the ground, Nick cautiously peered into the shelter.

“Jesus.” Nick whispered, his eyes filling with tears at the sight that greeted him.

The faces of the others paled as they heard Nick’s words. Looking into the opening, the shock shown on their faces at the sight of their friend.

Chapter 82

Four pairs of hands reached into the shelter and carefully lifted Sue from her haven. The eyes of the men blinking to fight off the tears that had formed. Carefully laying her on the ground, Heath brushed the sweat soaked hair from her forehead. Her clothes, soaked in sweat and blood were filthy from crawling on the side of the mountain. Her lips were battered, bruises had formed from the imprint of a hand, her forearms were bloody and scrapped deeply in places from pulling herself over the earth and nature’s obstacles. Shaking and shivering from the cold, the fever left blotches of red on the pale face. Her wrists still bound were bloody and raw from the chafing of the ropes. Her left leg swollen from the knee down was pushing at the seam of her jeans.

Nick gingerly, cut the ropes that bound her hands. Opening her hand, he took out the bloody rock. Tossing it to the side, he ran his arms down her ams. Pain flared in his face as he was awarded with a fist to his eye for his doctoring attempts. Thrashing on the ground in a frenzied panic, the men held her down while screaming her name. Slowly the thrashing stopped as their screams broke the wall of the delirium she was in and the men released their holds. As Sue shook and shivered, they saw the eyes open a slit and move sluggishly in their sockets.

“Boss, we’re here.” said Hank gently.

Nick held her hand and squeezed it gently, “Sue, lets see those beautiful green eyes?”

Sue’s eyes showed stark fear as she screamed “No!” . Nick grunted as she pushed him away with a surge of adrenalin, her hand hitting his injured ribs.

Heath grabbed her by the shoulders and held onto her as unconsciousness claimed her again. Looking at the others, he shook his head, “She’s burning up. She doesn’t know what’s going on. We gotta get her off this mountain.”

Davey took out his gun and shot three times in the air, “This way they know we found her. Its closer to your horses from here, lets get down there.”

Hank carefully picked up his boss and started down the mountain with the others following. Heath walked beside Nick whose face had changed colors after the jolt to his side, “You okay, Nick?”

“I’m okay. She just caught me by surprise.” said Nick softly as he grabbed Heath’s arm to stop him. “Did you see the fear in her eyes? Wait til I get my hands on Travis, he’s gonna regret he ever laid a finger on her.”

“You’ll have to wait in line brother.” said Heath angrily as they continued to the horses.

Jarrod watched as he saw the group making their way down the mountain. Heath and Nick had wanted to search the side of the mountain before continuing on up the trail. Jarrod had stayed behind to keep an eye on the horses. Seeing Hank carrying Sue, Jarrod built up the fire and laid a blanket on the ground. Hurrying to Nick’s saddlebags, he took out the first aid items that Nick had fortuitously brought with him.

Hank knelt and slowly laid his boss on the blanket. Jarrod stared as he took in the condition of their neighbor. Seeing her shiver, he grabbed another blanket to cover her and fight the effects of hypothermia.

Davey looked at Hank, “We gotta get Bill down here to take a look at her.”

Hank nodded, “Jarrod, can I borrow your horse?”

“Jingo’s all saddled, but what is Bill gonna do?” asked Jarrod as he put a cool cloth on her head.

“Bill was a field medic in the war.” said Heath. “He’ll do what he can before we leave.”

Hank brought Jingo out and mounted “Davey, I’ll bring the others and the horses too.” Then galloping up the trail, he was out of sight.

“What happened to you two?” inquired Jarrod as Heath gently washed Sue’s face.

Nick grinned, “Sue hit us. But, I think Davey got the worst of it.”

“Don’t ever grab someone who’s out of their head.” said David wincing when Nick tied the bandage around his head.

Jarrod and Heath exchanged the compressed for cool ones to help fight the fever that had control of her. Her head moved slightly as she mumbled in Yaqui. Her words were foreign to them yet also gave comfort in the knowledge that she was still with them in this world. Her face grimaced as the pain flared through her body.

Lifting her head, Heath brought a cup to the swollen lips “Take a sip, Sue” he coaxed softly as he poured a few drops into her mouth when she didn’t respond.

Hearing horses approaching, Heath laid her head down, his hand wet from the sweat on the back of her neck. Standing, he watched as Bill and the other jumped down.

“Where’s Pedro?” asked Heath.

Curly smiled, “He’s waiting for Travis to come back for his horse.”

Bill hurried over to his boss and assessed her condition.

“Heath, hold her up so I can see where this blood came from.” said Bill as he took out his knife.

Heath hugged Sue to him as Bill cut the back of her shirt, “Bullet wound. It’s not really a bad one except there’s no exit wound. That’s where part of her fever is coming from. The other part’s from being in the cold last night and the other blood she’s lost.”

Nick watching Bill carefully whispered, “Should we try to take the bullet out?”

Bill frowned, “We gotta. I don’t know if she has the strength to fight the infection, if we don’t take it out.”

“Tell us what to do.” stated Nick.

“I’ll need some water boiled to sterilize a knife in. Also, some clean bandages. She’s out of it, so she may not even feel anything.”

Jarrod and Davey boiled the water, sterilized the knife and handed it to Bill.

Bill winked at Heath, “Ya’ better have a good hold on her. I don’t want her jumping up while I’m in the middle of finding the bullet.”

Heath nodded and drew his friend closer to him as he held her head to his chest and the others watched closely.

Chapter 83

Nick stroked the sleeping kitten that lay by the woman in the bed whose fever had finally broken. Watching for signs of waking and sighing wearily, he recalled the past forty-eight hours.

She hadn’t uttered a sound as Bill removed the bullet and cleaned the wound and had only stirred briefly when Bill cut an inch down her boot to alleviate some of the swelling. Heath rode with her in his arms to her ranch as Jarrod, Nick and Davey followed. Bill and the others of Sue’s ranch crew stayed behind to search the mountains for the man responsible.

The ride back had taken hours and their concern for Sue grew when she didn’t regain consciousness. The only sound was the creak of their saddles, the plopping of the horses’ hooves, and an occasional mumbling from her.

When they arrived at the ranch, they were surprised to find Dr. Merar and their Mother waiting. Jack held the door open as Heath carried Sue to her bed and laid her down gently while Jarrod explained what Bill had done on the mountain.

“She hasn’t been fully aware at any time.” stated Nick as he stood back and watched the doc.

Dr. Merar examined the wound on her shoulder and smiled, “Bill did a great job. I couldn’t have done better myself. We gotta get her boot off. Cutting it a little was the right thing to do. It’s a good thing you didn’t completely remove it.”

Taking a pair of scissors from his bag, he cut the boot off the injured leg. The release of the pressure of the boot and the sudden flow of blood caused Sue to awaken out of her unconscious state as she screamed in pain, sat upright and tried to grab her ankle. Heath grabbed her gently by the shoulders and Nick held her legs as she thrashed around on the bed.

“SUE! SUE!” Heath called in her ear over and over as the pain was driving her out of her mind and the thrashing continued uncontrollably.

Everyone was yelling her name trying to get her to stop her pain filled thrashing. Victoria rushed to the bathroom and came back with some cold wet towels and wrapped them around the monstrously looking ankle.

Through the pain that filled her senses, Sue heard people calling her and felt a numbing from the source of the pain that was overwhelming her.

“Sue!” said Heath gently as he felt the thrashing slowly subside.

She slowly opened her eyes to look blankly around the room and at the room’s occupants before finally resting on Nick, who saw recognition dawning in them from her bruised face, “Hi, Nick.” she whispered with pain etched in her face.

“Hi, yourself Sue.” smiled Nick from his pale face relieved at the green eyes staring back at him as he released his hold on her legs.

As her eyelids drooped, Sue whispered, “Who gave you that shiner?”

The men chuckled with relief at the question as Victoria and Dr. Merar ushered everyone else out of the room informing them they would give them an update as soon as possible.

Joining Jack who was laying on the sofa in the living room, the others took seats waiting for Dr. Merar to finish.

Handing everyone a drink, Davey took a seat and said quietly “It’s a good thing the doc was coming out to check on you, Jack.”

Jack shook his head, “He didn’t come out to check on me.”

“Then why was he here?” asked Heath.

“He said he was woken out of a sound sleep by a deep voice, looked up and saw a man and Indian in his room. They told ‘em you all were bringing her to the ranch and she needed a doctor. He didn’t question it, he just came out here as quick as he could.” said Jack shaking his head in wonder. “Your Mother showed up to check on Nick.”

The men stared at Jack as the implications of what Dr. Merar had seen took hold of their thoughts.

“I don’t care where the help came from, at least she had someone by her side until we found her.” said Nick and sent a silent thank you to her father and Yaqui guardian.

When Hank and the rest of the crew returned later that day, Dr. Merar was needed again. Pedro had sustained a graze on his head in a fight with Travis.

Jack growled, “You’re lucky you weren’t killed Pedro!”

“We have his horse.” said Pedro wincing as his head throbbed. “We’ll find him.”

Looking up as the door opened, Nick smiled as Heath entered the room. Walking to the bed, Heath felt her forehead and smiled widely.

“Still no fever, Nick.”

“Yep, now when she wakes up, she’ll be more aware.” sighed Nick.

“I’ll take over for ya’ Nick. You haven’t hardly slept since we brought her home.” suggested Heath as the concern for his brother reflected in his eyes.

“I wanna be here for a while longer.” replied Nick as he smiled at his blond brother, “Thanks Heath.”

“Fred stopped by while I was at the ranch talking to Duke. They haven’t found him yet.”

Nick’s face darkened as thoughts of Travis filled his mind, “She won’t be safe as long as he’s running loose.”

Heath stood, “They’ll find him. I’m gonna see how Pedro is doing. In the meantime, we’ll keep a good eye on your chameleon. ”

Nick rubbed his hand over his eyes and nodded when Heath squeezed his shoulder as he walked by and left the room. Glancing over, he saw the green eyes looking at him.

“Hi, welcome back.” said Nick softly as he smiled and held her hand in his.

Seeing the pain in her emerald eyes, Nick poured a teaspoon of laudanum as he lifted her head up, “Here take this, doctor’s orders.”

Taking the foul medicine, Sue looked with pain filled eyes at Nick as she waited for the medicine to take effect. “Thanks, Nick.”

Bringing her hand to his lips, he kissed it gently “Anytime, my dear.”

“What happened?” whispered Sue as she tried to remember what had happened.

Nick frowned as he caressed her cheek with his fingertips and whispered softly, “Can ya’ tell me what you remember?”

As she felt his fingers caressing her cheek, panic and fear rose in her as she shrank back from his touch “No!”

“Sue, what’s wrong?” asked Nick as he watched the fear in her eyes.

Staring at Nick, tears sprang to her eyes and fell onto her cheeks, “I’m sorry Nick. I don’t. I can’t. You didn’t..” The words from her coming out in a jumbled mess as her memories came flooding back of Travis’ treatment in the cabin and the sobs continued.

Nick sat on the bed, held her close as she sobbed into his shirt repeatedly, “I was so scared, Nick. I was so scared.”

“You’re safe now. He can’t harm you.” said Nick softly as the sobs subsided.

Sue took a deep shaky breath as Nick laid her back down. “He’s crazy, Nick. He kept saying he wanted to see my eyes as he was…”

“He was what?” asked Nick quietly as he held her hand.

Shivering, Sue squeezed his hand as the tears welled in her eyes, “He kept touching me. If I hadn’t gotten away, I don’t want to think of what he’d have done.”

Watching Sue’s eyes become drowsy from the strong pain killer, Nick smiled gently, “He’ll never get the chance to do anything like that again. Me and the boys will make sure of that. You rest and get your strength back.”

Smiling as her eyelids drooped, Sue asked “Who’s your chameleon?”

Chapter 84

Sitting at the oak desk in the study, Sue Weston worked on her ranch accounts to no avail. Her thoughts couldn’t concentrate on the figures or accounts in the book laying open before her. Grabbing her cane, she stood up and hobbled over to the liquor cabinet. Pouring a brandy, she made her way to the window and gazed out at the stars in the sky. Her mind going over the late afternoon visit from Sheriff Madden.

“Afternoon Miss Weston.” smiled Fred at the woman on the porch. The only reminder of her injuries sustained weeks before at the hands of John Travis was the plastered left ankle.

“Sheriff, to what do I owe this pleasure?” inquired Sue as she rose and gestured for him to follow her.

Maria greeted them as they entered the house, “Miss Sue, can I get you something?”

“Maria, could you bring some coffee and cookies into the study?”

“Right away, Miss Sue.” stated Maria as she hurried to get the requested items.

Sitting at the round table, Sue smiled warmly at Maria when she brought the tray in.

“Thanks Maria. Could you close the door so we aren’t disturbed?”

“Yes, Miss Sue.” smiled Maria as she left and closed the door behind her.

Pouring coffee for the sheriff and herself, she offered a cookie before she sat back in her chair.

“Have ya’ found him?” asked Sue softly as she held the cup between her hands welcoming the warmth to fight the chill she had suddenly felt.

“No, we haven’t found Travis yet.” replied Fred as he watched the woman across from him. Her strength of character and soul had astounded him when he had learned of the details of her kidnapping.

Sue sighed and waited for the sheriff to explain his presence at her ranch. Taking a deep breath, he continued, “I just found out from the sheriff in Modesto that they found a girl strangled. She had green eyes.”

Sue nodded and leaned forward in her chair, “What else?”

“It appears there have been several other murders of women in various towns and cities in the state.” explained Fred drily.

“All with green eyes?” asked Sue as she studied Fred’s face.

“Yeah. That’s the one thing they all have in common. I’m warning all women with green eyes not to go out unescorted. That includes you, Miss Weston.”

Sue rolled her eyes and retorted sarcastically, “As if I have a choice, Sheriff!”

Chuckling, Fred grinned “You do have quite a few guardians around you.”

“I know they’re concerned for me, but they are driving me nuts!” sighed Sue as she smiled wearily at her guest. “Thanks for coming all the way out here, Sheriff.”

Fred stood and shook her hand, “It was my pleasure. I miss Maria’s cooking at the hotel.”

Laughing, Sue walked him to his horse. “Come out for supper anytime you’re in the neighborhood.”

Mounting, Fred tipped his hat, “I will definitely take you up on that offer. Bye Miss Weston.”

Jack Franklin nodded and frowned as the sheriff passed him on the road. Since John Travis had escaped, the whole crew had been on edge keeping their eyes open for any sign of trouble for their friend. When she had been confined to a bed due to her injuries, she slept most of the time and hadn’t been aware enough to notice the extra attention. But these past weeks, her temperament had darkened as the confinement grated on her nerves and suffocated her free spirit.

She snapped one afternoon and Nick had shouted right back at her. They both continued the tirade until he and Heath arrived, afraid they would have to separate the two. Both of their volatile tempers making the situation a powder keg. She told the Barkley brothers to stop coming around and to go home to run their own ranch.

Since that explosive day, Jack kept Nick and Heath informed of her medical progress and the situation at the ranch. The only people she hadn’t snarled at had been Maria and Jose.

Riding into the barn, he found his boss grooming Satan and cooing to him.

“Boss, was the sheriff here?” asked he unsaddled his horse.

“Yep.” replied Sue as she continued to groom Satan, “How’s the fencing coming along?”

Leaning on the stall door, Jack replied “Should be finished by tonight. Want to tell me what the sheriff was doing here?”

Her hand halted the grooming for only an instance, “I believe that’s my business, Jack.”

Jack waited and watched her care for her horse. When no answer was forthcoming, he said softly, “Is everything okay?”

Finished grooming Satan, Sue walked to the stall door that Jack opened for her.

“Everything’s fine Jack, just fine.” she replied as she entered Rio’s stall and groomed her.

“What did he say, Sue?” asked Jack, undaunted by the glare he received in return for his question.

Ignoring his question, Sue groomed Rio and talked to her as she had Satan. Putting the curry comb in its box, she left the stall and looked at her friend, “They haven’t caught Travis yet and some green eyed women have been murdered.”

Jack nodded and walked her out of the barn, “I’ve some book work to do, Jack. Night.”

Chapter 85

Jarrod and Heath were playing a game of pool as Nick sipped a brandy and stared at the stars. His thoughts centered on another ranch owner and the disturbing news that the sheriff had told them earlier.

The last few weeks had been difficult for the Barkleys as it had been for their neighbor Sue Weston. Duke McCall had run the ranch for the first week after they had brought the injured woman home. Nick and Heath, quite concerned about Sue’s welfare, had spent most of the week at her ranch. When her fever had broken, the brothers had helped Jack Franklin and the others with the ranch work. Pedro had been out of action with a concussion from the firefight with Travis.

Nick shook his head as he remember the confrontation between the two under the hot California sun.

“Nick, what are you and Heath doing here?” inquired Sue from the porch.

“I just came by to see how you were feeling?” replied Nick as he dismounted, walked to the porch and sat on the railing across from her. Heath had rode to the corral to watch Davey so Nick could have time alone with his chameleon.

Sighing, Sue stated “I’m fine. Why are you really here?”

Nick frowned at the tone in her voice, “I told you why. I’m just worried about you.”

“I told ya’ yesterday, I was fine.” retorted Sue angrily.

“Can’t a guy check up on his lady friend to make sure she’s alright?” snapped Nick.

Sue sat stunned as the frustrations and anger boiled over, “Lady friend? Who you calling a ladyfriend?”

Nick stammered as he saw her eyes flashing, “You’re my friend and you’re a lady.”

Standing, she looked up at him and glared, “I am NOT your lady friend! That I believe is Jamie Foster and she’s the type of lady friend you’re probably used to.”

“What does that mean?” snarled Nick back.

“It means I don’t want you coming around every day. If you need that kind of attention, see her!” yelled Sue as she gestured wildly.

“Why of all the… I can’t believe you just said that!” shouted Nick as he stood up and glared down at the angry woman.

Jack and Heath ran to the porch as the heated words blew across the yard to the corral. The men watched from the corrals as the two stubborn people exploded at each other.

“What pet name do you have for her?” shouted Sue

“I don’t have a pet name for her. I only have one for you!”

As Heath and Jack reached the two combatants, Sue walked to the door and yanked it open, looking back she snarled at the brothers. “You two go back and run your ranch and I’ll run mine. Don’t come around again!”

Nick stalked off the porch as the panes of glass in the house shook from the force of the slamming door. Heath sighed as he mounted Charger and followed Nick home. Nick rode in silence thinking about her caustic words.

Pulling up, he looked at Heath and growled, “What’s wrong with her?”

Heath chuckled, “Sue could be your twin Nick.”

“What do you mean by that?” shouted Nick with an incredulous look.

“Nick, she’s stubborn and temperamental, passionate and proud. She loves being a rancher, hates being cooped up, is independent and doesn’t like not doing her share. Reminds me of someone else I know.” said Heath as he watched Nick’s face slowly take on a bleak look.

“I think she’s more stubborn than both of us put together. I didn’t mean to upset her.” said Nick as he looked back at the ranch they had just come from. “Travis is still out there and I don’t wanna leave her alone.”

Heath smiled as he squeezed Nick’s shoulder, “She won’t be alone. I’ll ask Jack to let us know what goes on over there. Nick, she’s out of sorts right now. Give her some time.”

Nick nodded as he grinned, “I wish I could take back calling her chameleon. I don’t think she’ll ever get over that.”

Heath laughed as they continued towards home. Both their thoughts on the woman they had left behind.

Victoria eyes wandered again to Nick’s back as he looked out the window. He had been quieter these past weeks, since he and Sue had words. Not being able to see her was weighing heavily on his mind.

“Nick, would you ask Ciego to have the surrey ready tomorrow morning at ten?” asked Victoria as she worked on her needlework.

“Sure, Mother. Are you going into town?” inquired Nick offhandedly.

“I thought I would see how Sue was doing and bring her some of the books we had discussed.” replied Victoria.

Clearing his throat nervously, Nick stated, “Mother, I don’t think that’s a good idea.”

“Oh, why not?”

“Travis is still around and anyway, we’re not welcome there.”

Victoria stood and smiled at Nick, “I believe just you and Heath are not welcome there. She didn’t say anything about the rest of the Barkley family. Good night.”

Jarrod and Heath smiled at their mother’s ploy and bade her a good night. Nick shook his head as he walked out of the room to his bedroom.

“Well, brother Heath. I’d like to be a fly on the wall at the Weston ranch tomorrow.” grinned Jarrod as he lined up his shot.

Heath chuckled, “Sue’d never yell at Mother, but it would be fun to see though.”

Chapter 86

Sleep had eluded Sue Weston once more. Each night had become a free for all of dreams and nightmares. The one constant bright spot in her dreams had been Nick, until she had instigated the shouting match and ordered them off the ranch.

Her fears climbing for the safety of those around her when she became more aware after they brought her home. When he and Heath had stayed at the ranch that first week, it had warmed her heart and calmed the fears her nightmares would bring.

Shaking her head, she drank her coffee as she realized she hadn’t really minded Nick calling her his ladyfriend that much. She was just fighting the bit the men were forcing on her and used him as an excuse to lash out. ‘I’m not too sure about being called chameleon though.’ she thought with a slight smile.

Jack frowned as he walked into the kitchen and saw his boss sitting at the table. Grabbing a cup, he sat across from her. “Morning.”

“Morning, Jack.”

“You got anything in particular you want us to do today, boss.” asked Jack quietly as he observed the shadows under her eyes that seemed to grow everyday. She wouldn’t talk about it, but Maria admitted Sue was having nightmares and wandering the house at night.

“You and the men are leaving today to get that herd up north.” advised Sue quietly as she watched the disbelief and anger flash across Jack’s face.

“We’re not leaving you here alone. One of us will have to stay behind.” stated Jack firmly.

“Maria and Jose will be here with me. I get my plaster off today so Jose and I can run the ranch while you’re gone. I’ve already transferred the money. Mr. Hastings and his men will drive them part way for you. It’s a done deal, Jack.” informed Sue as she stood.

Jack stood up and looked pleadingly into the green eyes, “Sue, please let me leave one of the men behind. How about Davey? He won’t bother you much cause you scare him lately.”

Sue chuckled as she put on her hat, “Jack, I’ve decided that I’m not gonna let Travis slowly steal my life from me. That’s what he’s been doing! I’ve had enough of this skulking around and I’m not doing it anymore. I can take care of myself.”

Jack shook his head, “You, me and Pedro are lucky to be alive. That man’s loco and dangerous.”

“I was at a disadvantage before cause I didn’t know it was him. Now I know and that can make all the difference. I need to feel alive again. I will promise that I’ll shoot first and ask questions later.” grinned Sue as she strapped on her gunbelt.

“The men ain’t gonna like this.” whispered Jack as he followed his boss to the bunkhouse.

Knocking on the door of the bunkhouse, Sue waited til she heard the okay from inside. Standing at the door, she watched as the jaws of the men dropped with her news.

“Boys, you’ll only be gone a few days and will return on Monday.”

Hank stood and smiled, “A lot can happen in a few days, boss. I think we should stay here.” The others murmured their agreement.

Sue smiled at the giant before her, “If it makes you feel any better, I’ll let Jack ride over to the Barkleys and update them like he’s been doing every day.”

Jack blushed, “What are ya’ talking about, boss?”

Chuckling, Sue grinned, “Jack, the only reason Nick and Heath haven’t come around is cause you’re letting them know what’s going on. Otherwise, they’d have been here themselves.”

“I knew she’d figure it out, didn’t I tell you.” laughed Hank in a deep booming voice as the others chuckled.

“Take the train up north and you can have the herd back in two days.” replied Sue as she opened the door and looked back at her crew, “As Nick Barkley’d say ‘This is a working ranch’. I’m tired of letting some snake in the grass take that from me. Have a good trip.”

Jack shook his head, “I don’t like it.”

“Did you see the look in her eyes, Jack?” asked Bill as the foreman looked at him puzzled. “I see fire and determination. She’s made up her mind and if we don’t do it, she’ll be mad enough to hire a new crew.”

“Bill’s right, Jack. She’d do it just to spite us.” said Pedro softly. “On the way to the train, we could stop by and let the sheriff know. He can check on her, too.”

Hank grinned, “Let’s get going. Sooner we leave, sooner we get back.”

Chapter 87

Sue and Jose spent the morning cleaning out the stables and forking fresh hay to the animals. Jose enjoyed the time he spent alongside his boss and was happy to see her ankle without the plaster on it. She always treated him equal to the others on the crew and voiced her pride in the work he accomplished.

Completing the chore, Sue and Jose sat on the porch enjoying a drink. “Jose, tomorrow we’ll start back up on your shooting practice.”

Jose’s eyes lit up with excitement, “I would like that, Miss Sue. Your ankle is better?”

“Yep. Doc says it’ll be weak for a while, but its better.” smiled Sue at her young hand. “Jack tells me you haven’t picked a horse out of the remuda for yourself yet.”

“No, I was hoping you could help me decide which one, boss.” replied Jose shyly.

Chuckling, Sue squeezed his shoulder and stood, “You have to decide for yourself, but I’ll narrow it down for you if you want.”

Walking to the corrals, they watched the horses and Sue pointed out their finer points to him. Jose listened carefully as she talked, her knowledge of horses and ranches being passed to him with the time they spent together. The sounds of the horses running and playing in the corral covered the approach of another horse behind them.

Feeling eyes on her back, she pushed Jose to the side, spun and drew her gun.

Victoria sat stunned at the sudden movement from Sue and the gun that was pointed at her. Seeing Victoria, Sue holstered her gun and knelt down by Jose.

“You okay, Jose?” asked Sue concerned at his pale face.

“Yes, Miss Sue. You drew so fast!” whispered Jose as he stared at her.

“I had a good teacher. Jose, drawing your gun quickly is not as important as hitting what you shoot at.” said Sue as she helped him to his feet.

Handing Jose a rope, she smiled softly “Go get your horse, Jose. I need to talk to Mrs. Barkley.” Jose nodded and left them by the corral.

Sue walked over to Victoria who had climbed out of the surrey, “You shouldn’t be driving around unescorted Victoria, it’s dangerous with Travis running around somewhere.”

Smiling, Victoria drew the young woman into a hug, “Thank you for caring. It’s good to see you without any bandages or plaster.”

Laughing, Sue returned the hug, “I feel great! Sorry for scaring you, guess I’m kind of jumpy.”

“I’m the one who should apologize. I didn’t realize you hadn’t heard me. I brought some of those books you wanted to read.”

Watching Jose leading a horse back to them, Sue grinned “Thanks, Victoria. Did Jack make it over to your ranch this morning?”

Victoria shook her head and chuckled, “Heath and Nick are very angry with you right now.”

“I expect they’ll probably be here sometime after lunch, huh?” asked Sue with a smile.

“I believe you’ll have some weekend guests.” teased Victoria as Sue rolled her eyes.

“Good choice, Jose!” smiled Sue as she patted his back. “Now we can work on breaking him in. But first, lets have some lunch.”

Chapter 88

After lunch Sue and Victoria sat on the porch watching Jose work with his new horse in the corral. The calico kitten that was Sue’s ever constant companion jumped up and sat on her mistress’ lap.

Victoria listened to the purring of the contented kitten, “What’s this beauty’s name?”

“Nicodena.”

“That’s an unusual name. Does it mean anything?” asked Victoria.

“No, she’s named after the person who gave her to me.” replied Sue with a sly smile.

Watching the amusement in the green eyes, Victoria’s eyes widened as she realized what Sue was saying, “Nick! He hates cats! I can’t believe he actually picked one up.”

Sue chuckled, “Knowing Nick, he probably grumbled the whole time.”

Squeezing Sue’s hand, Victoria smiled “He must think a lot of you to do something like that.”

Shrugging her shoulder, Sue’s eyes watched Jose “I’m sure he’ll come to his senses like the others. Not too many men will let a woman be their equal. I’m not holding my breath, Victoria.”

Victoria’s reply to the sadness in Sue’s voice was cutoff as Sue jumped from the porch when Jose flew to the ground of the corral. Running to the corral, she climbed in and helped the stunned teen up.

“Jose, you okay?” asked Sue as her heart pounded furiously.

“Yes, Miss Sue. My breath was just knocked out.” replied Jose.

Sue grabbed the teen by the shoulders, “You scared the pants off me boy! If you get hurt, your mama’s gonna tan both our hides.”

Jose looked down at his feet and whispered softly, “I’m sorry Miss Sue.”

Looking down at the dark haired boy, Sue smiled and ruffled his hair, “I shouldn’t have snarled like that Jose. Just don’t do it again. I’m already an old maid so you don’t have to scare ten years off of me. Com’on I’ll help ya’ with this critter.”

Chapter 89

Victoria watched from outside the corral as Sue and Jose worked with the horse. Her thoughts were on Sue’s comments on the porch before she had run down to the corral. Watching the interaction between the rancher and the young boy, Victoria could see the love she felt for the teenager. Sue cheered as Jose proudly rode his new horse around the corral.

Opening the door of the corral, Jose trotted out, dismounted and tied his horse to the corral bars. Sue shut the door and turned as Jose wrapped his arms around her, “Thank you, Miss Sue. She is the best horse!”

Sue smiled, put her arm over his shoulders and walked the young ranch hand to his horse, “You earned her Jose. You’re one of my best workers. Now go for a ride, but stay close to the buildings of the ranch.”

“I will!” called Jose as he galloped away, passing Nick as he rode and dismounted by the women.

“Hi Nick.” said Sue as she looked curiously at the horse Nick tied to the corral.

“Sue, Mother. This is Barrett’s horse.” said Nick at her look. “Barrett’s our hand that was murdered. I realized last night that I never brought him over for you to check the tracks.”

Nodding, Sue untied the horse and walked him with Nick to the front of the house where she retied him. Nick knelt beside her as she examined the tracks.

“Same one I tracked to your ranch. How do ya’ suppose your hand and the banker got mixed up together?” asked Sue quietly as her face took on a thoughtful expression.

Shrugging, Nick replied “Don’t know. One of our other men, Scotty, saw them having a drink together one time.”

“Guess we won’t know, will we?” said Sue as she stood. “Nick, I took my frustrations out on you. I’m sorry I yelled at ya’.”

Grinning, Nick held out his hand, “I’m sorry too.”

Laughing, Sue shook his hand and winked at the cowboy with the wide smile on his face.

Chapter 90

Travis had fled the area after he was unsuccessful in completing his kidnapping of Sue Weston. He had watched the men take her from the deadfalls and the desire to take her from them swelled within him. The little bit of rationale he had left won out over that desire. Four against one were not very good odds.

When the men headed down the mountains taking her with them, he faded back into the trees and made his way to the area where his horse was. Seeing the back of a man watching, he stepped forward to shoot him when his foot snapped a branch. The sudden turn of Pedro that day saved his life. As Pedro turned and shot, Travis grazed his head. Pedro’s bullet had sailed harmlessly past Travis. While Pedro lay still on the ground Travis started towards his horse, stopping as he heard the others shouting to their still friend.

Hearing the crashing of men coming towards them, Travis turned and ran out of the area. Ducking behind some bushes, he made his way out of the area following a small gully. He continued walking out of the mountains towards Modesto where he could rent a horse and obtain supplies. As he walked, his thoughts were on the green-eyed woman who had thwarted and escaped him.

Reaching Modesto, he obtained the items he needed and headed further down the coast. Knowing that he would be a wanted man, he kept to the outskirts and seedier parts of the towns and cities he rode to. He traveled for weeks within the state, satisfying his need to feel the arousal whenever he found a woman with green eyes. Uncaring of the destruction he caused, he forged on slowly making his way back to his hunting ground leaving a trail of bodies behind.

His need to have her drove him on. Knowing her ranch hands would be watching her like a hawk, he focused on developing a way to get her to come to him willingly.

He needed some bait to get this to happen. Listing the possibilities in his mind, he discarded them for one reason or another. He needed someone he could control easily and who Sue Weston would come for without a thought to her own safety. Someone young and easily handled.

He smiled as the idea formed in his mind. ‘Yes, this’ll work. Now, to work out all the details.’

Chapter 91

Sue and Nick escorted Victoria back to the ranch over her protests. The trio kept up a steady stream of conversation as they rode.

“Jose’s a great worker. Boy howdy, he’s smart too.” said Sue as Victoria smiled.

Nick grinned at the phrase that he had only heard his younger brother say, “How come he’s not in school today?”

Victoria rolled her eyes and Sue looked at Nick as if he had two heads. Nick seeing the looks on the faces of the women asked, “What’s wrong?”

“Nick, there’s no school during the summer.” sighed Sue. “Victoria, are you sure Nick was a kid once?”

Victoria chuckled as Nick retorted, “Hey, I’m too busy to notice stuff like that. After all this is a working ranch!”

Nick turned crimson as Sue and Victoria finished his sentence for him, laughing at the look on his face til tears were coming down their cheeks. Stopping in front of the house, Nick dismounted and helped his mother down.

“It wasn’t that funny!” blurted out Nick as Victoria had to hold onto his arms, weak from the laughter.

Sue bent over and fought to catch her breath on Satan while rubbing the tears from her face.

“Boy Howdy, are you two ladies alright?” asked Heath as he wondered what all the commotion was about.

“We’re fine dear.” replied Victoria as he gave her a kiss on the cheek. “Nick was just entertaining us on the ride home.”

Giggling, Sue climbed off Satan and thanked Victoria for her visit. “I’ll return the books when I’m through with them.”

“You come over anytime you want. Do you want to come in for some coffee?”

“No thanks, Victoria. I gotta be getting back.” said Sue as she walked back to Satan.

Nick growled as she climbed back on her horse, “Hey, wait for me!”

Heath snickered watching Sue roll her eyes at Nick, as he walked up to Satan, “I’ll see you tomorrow!”

“Great, I have lots of work for you to do. It’ll be like old times!” chuckled Sue as Heath put his hand on his back and bent over at the waist.

“I think I need to see the doc.” whined Heath with a smile at the laughter from his friend and mother.

“Nothin’ hard work won’t cure. Com’on Nick!” shouted Sue as she galloped out of the ranch yard with Nick racing after her shouting.

Victoria and Heath laughed as they watched Sue and Nick galloping away.

Chapter 92

Feeling the wind on her face and the muscles of the horse beneath her, Sue rejoiced at the happiness that was flowing through her soul. This was life at its finest. Hearing Nick shout, she smiled and jumped the fence that separated the two ranches.

Nick shook his head as he watched Satan sail over the fence and land on the other side. Coco followed and Nick reined in beside her, “Are you crazy? You could have been killed!”

Sue laughed and shook her head, “I would have gone happy Nick!”

Nick smiled at the infectious laughter, “Yeah, it was fun!”

Walking their horses, they topped the rise that looked over her ranch. Stopping, Sue wrapped her leg around the saddlehorn and pushed the hat back off her face.

“Isn’t being a rancher about the best thing in the world, Nick?” sighed Sue.

“Yeah, it is.” admitted Nick with a smile. “Have you ever considered doing anything else?”

Puzzled, Sue looked at him curiously, “Like what?”

“I don’t know. Maybe like a school teacher, dressmaker or something like that?” said Nick quietly. “Maybe a librarian?”

“Why would I want to do stuff like that?” asked Sue incredulously.

“Well, they’re a lot safer.” teased Nick with a sly smile.

Sue shook her head and smiled, “Now who’s trying to be funny! You scared me, I thought you were serious.”

Nick laughed as they walked their horses down the hill. “You could be a tracker for the army!”

“Tracking is a skill that does come in handy. Not too many people are really good at it. It’s a good thing I know how to track or I might’ve thought you killed my steers and shot Jack.” said Sue.

“You couldn’t have thought I’d do something like that?” asked Nick with a wounded look.

“I don’t, Nick” said Sue softly. “You know Nick, I wasn’t raised the way most girls are raised. I never even knew a white child until I met Charity Jones. Even after I saw her in her dresses and stuff, I only cared about the ranch and horses. I didn’t want anything to do with dresses.”

“I liked the dress you wore at the festival.” replied Nick with a grin.

“I never said I’d never worn a dress, I just don’t find them very practical. It’s hard to ride a horse with all that material.” laughed Sue as Nick joined her.

Leading the horses to the barn, Jose came out. “I’ll take care of them, Miss Sue.”

“Thanks Jose! How’s your new horse?”

“Bueno!” smiled Jose as she laughed and clapped him on the back.

“Nick, how about a drink before dinner?”

“Sounds good to me.” replied Nick as he let Jose take Coco and followed her into the house.

Maria greeted them at the door, “Miss Sue, two telegrams came for you. I put them on your desk.”

“Thanks, Maria. Come in the study, Nick.”

Nick poured a brandy for both of them as Sue read the telegrams. Walking to her with the drinks, Nick asked “Everything okay?”

Sue stared at the one paper she held in her hands. Her eyes rereading every line as her heart pounded in her chest and her breath caught in her throat.

“Sue, you okay?” asked Nick concerned at the look on her face.

Sue looked up, put the papers in her pocket and took the drink from Nick’s hand, “An old friend is coming to visit. Sorry, it just caught me off-guard.”

Nick smiled with relief, “Male or female?”

“Male” said Sue as she sipped her drink.

Nick frowned, “Male, huh? Really close old friend?”

“Not that close. How about some checkers before dinner?” asked Sue changing the topic of conversation and ending any more questions.

Chapter 93

Nick awoke from a sound sleep, his subconscious hearing a subtle noise that it was still trying to categorize. Sitting up, he listened carefully to the quiet of the house.

Hearing nothing, he walked to the window that overlooked the ranch yard and looked up at the sky. His eyes drawn back to the yard from movement in the barn door as Sue came out of the barn on Satan, leading Rio and galloped out of the ranch yard.

Nick angrily opened the window and yelled at the departing woman, “Sue! Sue!”

“Dammit!” Nick hollered as he pulled on his pants and boots. Grabbing his gunbelt and shirt, he ran out of his room and down the stairs.

Maria with tears in her eyes, handed him a paper. Nick stared at her as he took the paper and read the writing.

Dearest Nick,

I’m sorry but I have to do this alone. Travis has taken one of the Baldwin twins. I have to come alone or he’ll kill her. You and I both know he means it and will do it without a second thought.

I could never live with myself if he hurt her because of me. Don’t worry, I’ll be home in time for breakfast.

Sue

Nick crumpled the paper as the anguish twisted his heart. “Maria, did she say where’s she going?”

“No, she no say.” sobbed Maria.

Nick ran his hand through his hair as he tried to decide what to do. ‘Where would Baldwin take a small child? Why didn’t she wake me up? Why would she need two horses?’ he thought.

“Maria, the telegrams she got today! Do you know where they are?”

“In the desk. Right drawer” said Maria shakily.

Nick ran to the study and yanked on the drawer finding it locked. “Where’s the key?”

“I do not know.” whispered Maria as Nick tried opening the lock with a knife.

Frustrated, he took out his gun and shot out the lock as Maria screamed. Grabbing the telegrams, he read the first one, his heart catching in his throat.

‘Sue Weston

Stockton, California

Father’s murder solved

Need you in Texas right away

Ranch is yours

Captain Dan Freely

Texas Ranger’

Pushing his thoughts aside, he opened the second one.

‘Sue Weston

Stockton, California

I have one twin. Meet me alone

Miller Creek - Midnight – lose gun

Bring one parent with you

JT’

Nick ran out of the house to the barn and found Jose holding Coco who was saddled and ready to go.

Nick mounted, “Thanks Jose. Ride to my ranch. Tell my brothers that Travis is at Miller Creek and Sue’s gone there alone.”

Jose mounted and rode in the direction toward the Barkley ranch as Nick galloped the other way praying he wouldn’t be too late.

Chapter 94

John Travis, his hair scraggly, unkempt and a beard on his face had traveled all day to get to Stockton to start the next phase of his plan. He had sent the telegram to the home of Sue Weston earlier in the morning himself. His knowledge of Morse code gained when he had worked at one time in a telegraph office.

Standing in the shadows, he watched as Dan Baldwin was greeted at the door of his home by his wife and daughters. After greeting the ladies of his family with kisses, they went inside.

As the darkness of the night fell across the land, he crossed to the door of the home. Dan answered the knock at the door and looked into barrel of a pistol pointed at his head. Gesturing slightly with the pistol, Dan backed up into the house. Travis’ didn’t utter a word as he shut the door behind him.

“Dan, who’s at the door?” asked Marie as she entered the entryway stopping in shock at the sight before her.

“Don’t make any noise and no one gets hurt. Go into the living room.” said Travis following the couple and gesturing for them to sit on the couch.

Dan held onto his shaking wife and asked angrily, “What do you want?”

“I want one of your daughters.” replied Travis with a grin.

Dan and Marie sat stunned. “Travis, please! Leave our girls alone.” pleaded Dan. “I’ll do anything you want, just leave my family alone.”

Travis shook his head and laughed, “I can’t use you. I need one of your girls so Sue Weston will come to me. I’ll even let you decide which one will go with me.”

Clinging to Dan, Marie sobbed, “Please not my little girls, please Mr. Travis.”

“I’ve sent her a telegram to meet me at midnight and to bring one of you with her. When she meets me, you can have your kid back and I’ll have her. That’s how its gonna work.” said Travis smugly.

Dan held his wife, watching for any chance to get the gun away from the madman sitting across the room from them. Travis was careful and stayed out of their reach. He wasn’t going to slip up and let this chance get away from him. At ten thirty, Travis stood and gestured for the parents to go ahead of him.

“Don’t try anything, I’ll kill all of you if I have to.” he said coldly as he followed them to the room of the twins.

Dan and Marie walked on shaky legs into their daughters’ room. The girls asleep unaware of what was to happen. Throwing a blanket to the parents, he said “Wrap one of them up. I wouldn’t want her to catch a cold, now.”

Frozen in their tracks, Dan and Marie couldn’t move. The thought of handing over one of their angels to the crazy man was unthinkable, unimaginable and one of the worst horrors they had ever faced.

Pulling back the hammer, Travis cocked the pistol and pointed it at Marie. “Do it or you’ll be burying your pretty wife.”

Dan with tears running down his cheeks, lifted up Jenny and wrapped her carefully in the blanket as Marie sobbed and pleaded for Travis to not take her girl.

Crossing to the bed, Travis held his pistol on the two as he picked up the sleeping girl in his left arm. “Warn the sheriff or anyone and I’ll kill her. Sue Weston will be here to get you. Come with her and you’ll get your girl back unharmed. Try anything else and I’ll snap her neck like a twig.”

Keeping his eyes on the parents, he walked out of the room and out of the house. Hearing the door shut, Marie and Dan slumped to the floor as the grieve and anguish poured out of them.

Chapter 95

Jose rode at a full gallop to the Barkley Ranch. Fear gripping his heart at the thought of his boss meeting Travis. Stopping in front of the mansion, he jumped off and pounded on the front door waiting for someone inside to open it.

Jarrod on his way upstairs, rushed to the front door as the pounding increased. Opening it he was surprised to find Jose, “Jose, what’s wrong?”

“Senor Nick sent me. Miss Sue is meeting Travis. Hurry, you have to help her. Senor Nick rode after her.” exclaimed Jose in a frantic voice.

“Where Jose?” asked Jarrod

“Miller Creek!”

Jarrod ran up the stairs and burst into Heath’s room. Heath bolted upright in his bed, “What is it?”

“Get dressed. Its Travis.” said Jarrod as he hurried to his room to get his gunbelt.

Victoria met her sons in the hallway, “Where are you going? What’s happened?”

Jarrod replied as he strapped on his gunbelt. “Jose rode over here. Sue went to meet Travis at Miller Creek alone. Nick’s on his way there now.”

Gasping, Victoria replied “Bring them both back safe.”

Heath nodded, “We will Mother.”

Victoria followed them downstairs and stood with Jose as Jarrod and Heath galloped out of the ranchyard towards Miller Creek with Duke racing towards Stockton for Sheriff Madden.

“Jose, I’m going to get dressed and then we’ll go back to your ranch to wait.”

“Si, Mrs. Barkley.” replied Jose softly.

Chapter 96

Sue and Dan rode towards Miller Creek in silence. Her mind on the safety of the young Baldwin child and Dan. Her heart heavy with guilt at the look of anguish on both parent’s faces, knowing her presence in Stockton had caused it. Slowing, they walked the horses towards the designated meeting place.

Riding up to the fire, Dan’s eyes wildly searched for his daughter.

“You can stop right there.” called Travis from his hiding area.

“I’m here Travis, where’s the girl?” yelled Sue as she tried to figure out where he was.

“First, you get off that horse and walk to the fire. Then I’ll tell Baldwin where his kid is.” called Travis.

Dan whispered, “Don’t do it, he’ll kill you!”

“I have to Dan, just get your girl and get out of here.” whispered Sue as she dismounted. Leaving Satan’s reins trailing, she walked to the fire and stood.

Travis watched, satisfied they were alone and she was unarmed, stepped out from behind a tree with his gun pointed at Sue. He said coldly, “She’s asleep behind that log.”

Dan jumped down and ran to the log. Picking up his sleeping girl, he headed back to Rio, a chill running down his spine when Travis spoke, “I’ve changed my mind. You stay here and watch what’s gonna happen.”

“You don’t need them, you have me.” said Sue calmly as Dan stood a few feet away from her with Jenny.

Travis sneered, “You can’t tell me what to do. I’m the one with the gun and I’m calling the shots. There’s no one to protect you this time.”

“Let them go, Travis. You can’t watch them and look in my eyes at the same time.” replied Sue softly.

Sue watched Travis’ eyes glance at Dan. Screaming at Dan to run, she grabbed the knife from its sheath under her vest and threw it. Travis startled by the scream, jumped and received a knife in his right shoulder that was headed for his chest. The intense pain running down his arm and chest caused his grip to loosen on his gun and it fell.

Anger flared in him as he lunged at Sue. Ducking out of the way, she kicked him in the knee cap as he went by her. Grabbing his knee in pain, he lay on the ground. She grabbed a branch and swung it at his head as he rolled out of the way. Springing at her from his crouched position, she jumped out of the way, twisting her weakened ankle and fell to the ground.

Jumping on top of her, he grabbed her throat and squeezed as he felt the stirring from within him. Fighting for air and unable to loosen the hands, Sue grabbed the knife that protruded from his shoulder and stabbed his chest. Feeling the hold on her throat slightly loosen, she plunged the knife again. Travis grabbed at the knife in his chest as she pushed him away.

Sue staggered away into the trees as darkness closed in and she slumped to the ground. Nick making his way to the campsite ran towards her when he saw her fall to the ground.

Travis stumbled over to the horse that stood there as the blood poured from his body. Pulling himself into the saddle, he kicked at the horse. Satan feeling the unfamiliar weight on his back, bunched his muscles and bucked. Travis fell off with his foot stuck in the stirrup as Satan ran trying to dislodge the thing attached to his saddle. The screams from the dying man permeated the midnight air.

Nick watched as Satan ran with Travis’ body bouncing on the ground behind him. He carried Sue to the fire as Travis’ screams could no longer be heard and Dan carrying Jenny rushed back.

“God Nick, is she alright?” asked Dan concerned.

“She’s alive. Get me some water, Dan.” Said Nick as he brushed the hair from her forehead and examined her neck.

Jarrod and Heath rode up as Dan handed Nick the canteen. Rushing up, they knelt by Nick who was washing her face and neck with a wet rag.

Moaning, Sue fought her way back from the black hole she had fallen into. Hearing voices calling her name, she slowly opened her eyes. Jerking up, she looked wildly around as Nick held her. Seeing only Dan and the Barkleys, she relaxed.

“Dan, is she alright?” she whispered as her neck and throat protested.

“We’re both fine, thanks to you.” smiled Dan.

“It’s my fault she was taken from you in the first place.” Sue said softly.

Dan shook his head angrily, “It’s not your fault! You couldn’t have known he would do something like this. He was crazy.”

“That’s right, Sue.” said Heath and Jarrod.

Nick looked down at Sue with angry eyes, “YOU COULD HAVE BEEN KILLED! WHY DIDN’T YOU ASK FOR HELP?”

“I had to do what Travis asked. I’d never gamble with the life of one of Dan’s girls. I’d do it the same way if I had to.” whispered Sue as pain flashed across her face from her neck and ankle.

“Stubborn! That’s what you are, stubborn.” stated Nick as Heath pulled off her boot eliciting a moan of pain from her as she leaned into Nick’s arms.

Heath smiled as he looked into the green eyes watching him, “I think ya broke it again.”

“Oh great!” said Sue sarcastically as her face paled from the pain and sweat broke out on her forehead.

Hearing horses ride up, Heath and Jarrod stood protectively in front of the group on the ground. Duke, Sheriff Madden and Dr. Merar rode up and dismounted.

Rushing over, Dr. Merar arched an eyebrow at the sight of the woman on the ground.

“I was hoping I wouldn’t see you for a while Miss Weston.” smirked Howard as he opened his bag.

“If I had my way Doc, you’d only see me at a social.” gasped Sue as the pain intensified from his probing fingers.

“Hmm. I don’t think it’s broken, only badly sprained. You’re lucky.” said Howard as he wrapped the ankle. Pouring some laudanum in a spoon, he held it in front of her as she glared. “Open like a good girl.”

Opening her mouth to snarl at him, Howard thrust the spoon in as the others laughed. Swallowing the foul tasting medicine, Sue rolled her eyes. “Help me up Nick, I want to go home.”

Heath and Nick put her arms over their shoulders as they walked her to Coco. “Where’s Satan?” asked Sue as she looked around.

“He’s back in the barn by now. Travis was hanging from his stirrup as he was running down the trail.” Nick informed her. “If that’s how that horse is when someone else rides him, don’t bring him over. I’m not getting on him.”

Sue, Jarrod and Heath laughed as they remembered the conversation.

Dan walked over with Jenny and kissed Sue on the cheek. “Thanks again. I’m gonna get our little angel here home.”

Sue smiled and kissed Jenny and Dan. “I’ll send one of the boys into town for Rio. Give Marie my love.”

“I will. We’ll stop out to see you in a couple days.”

Sue yawned as the medicine took effect and climbed on Coco with Heath’s help. Nick sat behind her and pulled her backwards into him. “Let’s get her home, boys.” Smiling, he realized she was asleep from the strong medicine and tightened his arms around her.

Chapter 97

One week later, Sue Weston waited for the noon train to arrive at the depot in Stockton. Sitting on the bench outside the station, she enjoyed the warm summer day as her thoughts wondered what changes the trip to Texas would bring.

“This seat taken?”

Looking up, Sue smiled as Nick grinned and sat beside her.

“Leaving today, huh?” asked Nick as he twisted his hat between his hands.

“Yep. Train should be here any minute.” said Sue softly. “How’s the family?”

“Fine. They’re fine.” replied Nick. “Aren’t Jack and the boys seeing you off?”

“No, they’re fencing in some meadows in the box canyons today.”

Nick looked at the train coming up the tracks, cleared his throat and looked into the emerald eyes staring at him, “You’re coming back, aren’t you?”

Sue smiled, “I’ll be back, Nick. I have to go take care of a few things, but I’ll be back.“

Nick helped her up and walked her to the train. Leaning down, he brushed his lips against hers, “Can I call on you when you get back?”

“Yes, you may.” whispered Sue.

“Don’t forget where your home is.” said Nick as wrapped her into a hug. “I’ll be waiting.”

Smiling Sue climbed the stairs and looked back at him, “I won’t forget Nick. Hey, Nick while I’m gone can you make sure you check on Nicodena?”

Puzzled, Nick nodded, “Sure, but who’s Nicodena?”

Sue laughed as she opened the door to the car, “My calico kitten.”

Walking into the car, she giggled as she heard “YOU NAMED IT NICODENA?”

THE END