The Contract

Chapters 11-16

by Barkley Lady

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

Chapter Eleven

At Jarrod’s apartment

Beatrice read the invitations over and over again. She checked the envelope to make sure it really was addressed to her. Mrs Beatrice Barkley it said in purple ink on the cream coloured paper. She looked at them again and sighed. With the cards in her lap she looked out through the window thinking of what to do. Making a decision she stood up and walked down to Jarrod and Victoria.

"Oh, there is our sleeping beauty. Good morning dear." Jarrod stood up and helped her with her chair.

"Good morning, Jarrod, Victoria." Victoria smiled at her.

"Feeling better today?"

"Yes." She poured herself a cup of tea before she continued. "It seems as if I have got some invitations from a Mrs Freeman. I gather they are friends of the family?"

"Yes, Jennie’s husband is a childhood friend of Nick’s."

"I thought so. Well, I’ll answer her then." She ate her scrambled eggs thinking of how to continue.

"You do that and then Mother and you can go out shopping for the party."

"No, Jarrod, we shan’t. I know you both mean well but I’m not going to a party hosted by Nick’s friends without him. I shall however say yes to the afternoon tea."

"Beatrice, they are holding the party so that you can get to meet them and some more of our friends here in San Francisco. They will be very disappointed if we don’t come."

"Then Jarrod you shall go but I’m not. I’m sure Mrs Freeman will understand when I explain why."

"Beatrice, don’t push it." Jarrod whipped the corners of his mouth and used his lawyer voice. He wasn’t used to a Beatrice that said no to anything suggested to her. Victoria looked on amused wondering where this would turn, who would have to give in. In her mind she remembered the discussion she had had about the bedroom and Beatrice had stood up for what she thought was right. It was the same thing now. "There isn’t any good reason why you shouldn’t go to the party, especially since you are the guest of honour. Mother you see to it that she has got an appropriate dress."

"Jarrod, I have reason for not going and that is that Nick isn’t here, it’s his friends and he doesn’t even know of your plan. I will not go and you can’t force me. According to the law, and I have read that in your books, Nick is the one that has the legal rights to decide over me, not you. I shall meet Mrs Freeman for tea but I’m not going to the party." She looked at Jarrod with a steady look. Jarrod was surprised over how he felt about the situation, as he knew he had "lost" this discussion. A look at his mother told him that he might as well give up.

"Beatrice, I’m sure Nick wouldn’t mind if you went out."

"Going out with you and Victoria for a play is one thing, being introduced to close friends is something else. I don’t mind you making decisions that only affect me, in fact I need that but … " Victoria decided to step in and reached out and touched her arm.

"Beatrice, on second thought I do believe you are right. I’m sure Jennie and David will understand. When Nick comes home from the drive we can have a large party at the ranch and you can get to meet everybody then."

"Mother!" Jarrod stood up and threw his napkin beside the plate.

"Yes, son. Think of the consequences if Nick decides to …" She didn’t need to say more. Jarrod stared at her and left the room. "Beatrice, I shall let you in on a secret I had been planning for you but I think it’s time to tell you about it. Remember when you talked about that fresh herb when we had that Shepherd’s pie? Well I talked to Silas after we got home that day and he told me that you had a small garden at the mansion." She saw the blush rise on the young woman’s cheeks. "Beatrice, it’s Ok. I know you like to spend time in my garden, what would you say about having your own? I had first planned to put one together for you but somehow that feels wrong right now. Yesterday I visited a couple of herb gardens here and what would you say if we go there again today." Victoria noticed the tear in Beatrice eye. "I’m sorry, child. I never asked you if you wanted a garden."

"Victoria, I only had a few pots with fresh herbs that Horatius helped me pick. I have never had a garden. Mr Wheeler wouldn’t let me be in the garden."

"Sorry, I got the feeling from Silas that you used a lot of herbs in your cooking."

"I did, but only what I could find out in the forest or had in my pots."

"Would you like to have a garden?"

"If Nick hasn’t got anything against it, yes."

"As long as he doesn’t have to weed it, I’m sure he won’t say anything besides didn’t he say that you should get some interests, perhaps this could be something. Write an answer to Jennie and then be off."

Out in San Francisco

Victoria and Beatrice spent the day going around looking at different herb gardens, discussing the different approach the owners had taken. Victoria had picked out where it would be suitable with an herb garden and perhaps even a proper kitchen garden at the ranch and with that size in mind she could point out the good and bad points with the shapes. They spoke to several caretakers who promised to sell them some plants when they were going back to Stockton.

At last they sat down at a café for a cup of tea and a piece of carrot cake. Beatrice wished she could take her shoes off and said so to her mother-in-law.

"Me too, Child, me too. I have been thinking about how long we should stay here. What do you say about the rest of the week? That way we can get some more clothes shopping done and still have time to work on the garden before the boys come home. I think I’ll wire George Rosmunde. He usually helps me with my rose garden; when I need some tough work done like digging."

"I don’t mind doing that other wise but then I guess it’s not very lady like. Will he know where to dig?"

"We discussed the area before we left and Silas knows too. We have to decide what kind of fence you want and it the garden shall be built up with stones. Ah" Victoria inhaled the tea. "Ah, I guess that can wait until we are home."

"I think I have a good picture of how I would like it if I may choose. I kind of liked the one with a portal entrance and some kind of bushes as divider and fence. Then have the herbs set in groups. The kitchen garden should be next door with one entrance from the herb garden and one from the outside."

"And so it shall be then. It will be lots of work, Beatrice."

"Never been afraid of working, Victoria. It’s the sitting still that bothers me, mind starts to work then. As long as I’m occupied I think I’m doing fine." She gave Victoria a shy smile, which was answered with a larger smile.

"You are doing really well. I think I got taken aback when you reacted a few days ago. Some days everything is going so fine I forget, Beatrice, that you still are insecure. I have something else I want to talk with you about but will do that tonight after dinner. Here is not the place. What do you say about a few shops before going home?"

"I walked past an embroidery shop yesterday. Can we please go there? I have mended everything that needed attending to." Beatrice blushed as Victoria started to giggle.

"I wondered how long it would take you to fix Nick’s old things. Does he know? No? I don’t think I’ll want to be near when he finds out."

"I couldn’t just leave them with holes in them."

"I’m pleased you did them, I hate that kind of work and I don’t know what that boy does to his things. Heath and Jarrod don’t do half the damage he does. Audra wasn’t far behind in that department before she decided that she wanted to be a girl instead of a boy. That is one job I’m happy to leave to you." She stood up and gathered the few things they had gotten during the day. Walking out of the café she turned to Beatrice. "Did Jarrod get you your bank account?" When Beatrice shook her head Victoria frowned. "Hmm, he must have forgotten. Do you need any?"

"No, Victoria I have, I have my savings. I wouldn’t dream of asking for any money."

"You shouldn’t have to use your savings. I’ll see to it that Jarrod gets to it at once when we come home. Come on, Market Street and Haynes and Lawton is waiting for us and then we need to find that embroidery shop."

At Jarrod’s apartment

"Beatrice, remember I said I had something I wanted to talk to you about." Victoria came walking into the living room after dinner with the envelope and parcel in her hand. Beatrice looked up from the embroidery she had bought in the afternoon. She was eager to start and was going through the different threads, trying to figure out which one was which on the chart. Just as she looked up Jarrod to came through the door.

"Yes?" She put the embroidery aside seeing the serious faces of mother and son. Victoria sat down next to Beatrice in the sofa and Jarrod moved an armchair closer.

"When Jarrod, we got to know about the …"

"Mother let me start. Beatrice, Mother reminded me tonight about the account that Nick arranged for you. Here. Sorry, sweetheart, it wasn’t my meaning that you should use your savings. This money is yours to do what ever you want with and every month a sum will go into it. Just one restriction, it’s not to use for the household. For that you let me know. Alright?" Jarrod reached her a small book, which she hesitatingly took. "If you need more for clothes and such let me know too, this is for fun and the little things you need. Audra and Mother have one of these accounts too and when I and Heath get married our wives will too. It’s easier this way than you having to ask for money when you need something. Let me know how much you have used of your savings and I’ll see to it that it is replaced." Beatrice looked at the blue tiny book, it was her first ever bankbook, her first account. Carefully she opened it and with wide eyes she looked up at Jarrod and Victoria.

"So much! Surely there is something wrong?"

"That is what Nick said I should arrange for you, every month you will get another $1000."

"For little things?"

"For little things." Jarrod smiled. "And this is for saying I’m sorry for behaving so badly this morning." He gave her a small parcel. She gently opened it. It was a diary. "I walked into the book store today to order some new stationery for the family and noticed this. The keeper said they are very popular in England. There are space for pictures and other bits and pieces, besides what you write."

"Thank you Jarrod." The purple velvet fabric was mixed with blue satin. She let her hand run over the cover over and over again. Victoria smiled realizing how seldom Beatrice must have been given gifts and that that was the reason it was so fun to give her things. If only Nick would understand that too. She sigh softly gaining Beatrice attention.

"Victoria you wanted to talk with me."

"Yes, You see when your father came to Jarrod we did what we could to find out more about who he and you were. We only got a few lines back saying he was who he claimed to be. What we didn’t know was that Jarrod’s colleague continued to search for information and after you were married he sent Jarrod some more information." Victoria let her fingers run over the envelope, noticing the scared look in Beatrice eyes. Victoria wondered how she should continue. "Jarrod gave me the envelope the same day Nick left on the drive. I didn’t look at the contents until a few days later and have gone over them now and then. I have gotten the feeling Beatrice that there are some things in here you have no knowledge of, some that you perhaps have forgotten and some you remember too well. There was a photo in the envelope and I have taken the liberty of getting a frame for it and a few more photos. If you don’t like it, please let me know and we will find some thing else or just leave them in the envelope." She gave Beatrice the parcel and the envelope. The girl took them not sure what she was going to do. Jarrod reach forward and touched her arm.

"Beatrice, I think you should look at the envelope so you get to know what we have been told. Only Mother and I have seen it. It’s up to you to decide what to do with it, if you want Nick to see it or not. Open the envelope when you are alone." He saw how she hesitated touching the parcel and its ribbons. "Open that one. I so curious to get to know what you think." Beatrice gently opened her second present of the evening, trying to concentrate on what she was doing. Unfolding the paper five frames showed. The first one was empty and she frowned, looking up to Victoria.

"Look at the others and I’ll explain." Victoria smiled. Beatrice lifted up the second which was a photo of the Barkley family. She sat looking at it, letting her finger run along the people in it before she put it aside, the second was of Nick alone and she smiled softly. Victoria and Jarrod exchanged a look both feeling relieved. They hadn’t known how she would react to that photo. When Victoria looked back at the young woman she noticed she was crying silently looking at the third photo. It was of herself and her mother. Beatrice was ten when her mother had taken her to the photographer for a photo session. It was supposed to be her grandfather’s birthday present but before they could give it to him he had died. She had never seen the photo before. Victoria put her arms around her holding her close. Jarrod wiped her tears.

"I’m sorry. I miss her so much."

"Don’t worry, child. Cry, you are allowed to miss her and to mourn her. I’m sorry if it caused you pain, I thought it was such a beautiful photo of the two of you. In fact it was the only photo. The two empty frames, well, I thought you could have these on your vanity table or the bureau in your bedroom and complete the family with a photo of yourself and one of you and Nick. I got the frames since they were the last five."

"Thank you, you are both so very kind to me. I must have brought so much sorrow and distress into your family and you do everything to make me feel welcome." She wiped a tear away from her cheek.

"Sweetheart, after I had read what’s in the envelope I was convinced, you belong with us. You just need some time to adjust and so does Nick. We all do. Jarrod and I are lucky to have you to ourselves and to get this chance to know you."

"Time is something I haven’t got." She sat looking at the photo of her mother. "Will you excuse me? I think I’ll go up to the guest room."

"If you need us, you know were we are, wake me up Beatrice if you need to talk and I have gone to bed. Promise me that!"

"Yes, Victoria, I promise." She stood up gathering her things together. Jarrod helped her and put her sewing and bankbook on top of the photos and envelope. Then he kissed her cheek.

"Any questions let me know. My friend in Louisiana can help us to find out more if there are any questions, alright?" Beatrice nodded and left the room.

"Jarrod, did we do the right thing?"

"I don’t know Mother. Guess that time will tell."

Beatrice sat on her bed, the three frames spread out in front of her. She took the family photo and walked over to the dressing table with it and returned to the two others. She put the one of her mother and herself on the small table next to the table and kept the one of Nick with her for a while. Her finger ran along his face, thinking of him, wondering what he would say when he got home, if he would still be interested in staying married to her. She sighed and put his photo next to the other. Looking at the envelope she hesitated before she decided that she might as well see what it said so she emptied it on the bed. There were several newspaper clippings, papers with dates on and some official papers. There were a few photos too which surprised her since Victoria had said one photo. She soon realised that it was newly taken photos as it was of the mansion, of her grandpapa’s and mother’s grave and one of the gallery. She put them aside and looked at the newspapers instead. When she was done sorting all papers it was well over midnight and she put everything back into the envelope and went to bed.

Chapter Twelve

At The Freeman’s

Two days later Beatrice knocked on the door to the Freeman’s apartment as she quickly swept her hands over the dress she wore. She had been told by both Jarrod and Victoria that she was beautiful in her golden coloured dress but she didn’t feel like it. Jarrod had accompanied her to the house but then had to leave her for court. She wished Victoria had had time to accompany her but something very important had come up and she had to excuse herself from the tea. The door was opened by a stern butler who showed her in.

As she followed him she made a note that she wasn’t the only one invited and again she felt small and scared. Beatrice suddenly recognised four of the women, they were the ones from the café and she gasped. Getting a grip of herself with a deep breath she stepped in to the room as the butler introduced her. A blond pregnant woman left the group of women and quickly made her way to Beatrice.

"Ah, Mrs Barkley, I’m so pleased that you were still able to come even though Aunt Victoria had to take care of some family business. I’m Jennie Freeman. Please may I call you Beatrice?" She smiled to Beatrice as she took hold of her arm. Jennie had first been hurt when she had received the no for the party but after she had read the letter and thought for a while she totally understood and now she was going to make the most of it. She really did want to get to know Beatrice.

"Come; let me introduce you to the others. First my mother Aurelia." Beatrice curtsied to an older copy of the blond woman next to her.

"Welcome, Child to San Francisco. Is it your first time here?"

"Yes, madame. I arrived from Louisiana just a few weeks ago."

"Louisiana? Now lass, you are a long way from home. Now let me …"

"Mother, you will have to wait. You don’t want to scare her all the way back. And think of what Nick might do if you do."

"This lass isn’t as easy to scare as a New Yorker. She has got guts, if I may say so. Beatrice, I’ll talk to you later when my daughter isn’t guarding you." Giggling she pinched Beatrice cheek. Jennie pulled her new friend to the next group. Beatrice didn’t know but somehow she managed to smile and walk tall as she was showed around the room knowing that all eyes were on her and that for sure several people were talking about her. The last group of women was approached. Jennie introduced her to Juliet, her sister and then Beatrice stood in front of the woman she remembered had been engaged to Nick. Beatrice smiled even softer than she thought she could, feeling a little sorry for the girl. Victoria had told her about Hester and some of the other girls Nick had been dating, all so that Beatrice would be better prepared for the next time and so that she would get to know the story from the family.

"Beatrice, this is Hester Converse."

"How nice to finally meet you. I have heard so much about you." This approach put Hester off a bit and she didn’t really know what to do. She had invited herself and her friends when Juliet had told her about the tea Jennie was holding for Beatrice.

"I didn’t know that Nick still talked about me."

"He doesn’t." Jennie hid her smile and gently moved Beatrice to the next. After introductions were completed the two women walked over to a large table and picked up what they wanted before returning to the living room. Jennie placed Beatrice with some close friends before securing a place for herself. It didn’t take long before the others had managed to get Beatrice to join in the conversation.

A few hours later the tea party was breaking up. Beatrice looked at Jennie and thanked her once again for inviting her and apologized for missing the party. Aurelia came up to the women as they stood in the foyer.

"Beatrice, it’s I who should apologize for not thinking. I didn’t think of how it would seem or how Nick might feel. After reading your letter and my dear mother had told me off I feel ashamed. I would have been really lost the first time I met these people if David hadn’t been by my side. Just promise to give us a notice in good time before the next time you and Nick come to the city, and then I shall arrange the party of the year." She smiled.

"In other words, Beatrice don’t say a word. My daughter has a way of over doing things." She stroked her daughter’s cheek. "Tired?"

"Yes, Mother."

"I’m sorry, Jennie. You should be resting and not standing here. When is the baby coming?"

"I still have about six weeks to go, I think. I’m sure it’s going to be a boy, it’s so lively. Beatrice, when are you due to go back to Stockton?"

"I think in a week’s time. If I understood Jarrod right this morning they should be in Salem in a few days time and then it’s less than ten days ride back to the range. We plan to be at home before them."

"Then will you join me for a day out in town before you leave. I can book everything if you just say yes. It would be such fun. I’ll ask Grizzy and Bella to join us. We could go to The Wonder, to the beauty parlour and then there is this lovely new shop with anything you might want for your house. I’m sure David can get us some Vaudeville tickets for the evening too."

"Are you sure it won’t be too much for you, considering the baby?"

"I’ll see to it that I get plenty of rest before and after and if we see to it that there are rests I’m sure I’ll make it. Please say yes."

"Alright. I’ll just have to check with Victoria and Jarrod that they haven’t planned anything. They are keeping me busy."

"Do that and I’ll see you in … lets say five days. I’ll send you a note after I have talked to David and the girls. It will be so much fun." A knock on the door startled the girls and Aurelia open the door.

"Ah Mr Barkley. Come to pick your lovely sister-in-law up?" Jarrod kissed the old lady on her cheek.

"I have. Can’t have a lady walk home by herself can I? Are you ready Beatrice?"

"Yes, I am. Thank you again, Jennie and I’ll look forward to the note and the day out with you." Jennie leaned forward and kissed her before Beatrice left her. Aurelia pulled the girl into her arms.

"Now you remember, you are always welcome here, lass and the next time you and I are going to sit down and talk." Jarrod chuckled as he took Beatrice’s elbow and led her down to the coach.

"I gather it was a pleasant afternoon."

"It was."

"And what’s this about a day out?"

"Jennie wanted me to come out with her and two other ladies for shopping. I hope it’s alright with you and Victoria?"

"Sweetheart, nothing could please me more than if you got some good friends here in San Francisco and it’s about time you got your own friends instead of spending all your time with me and Mother."

At Jarrod’s apartment

Several hours later Beatrice lay on her bed resting before dinner. When she got home all her energy was gone. Her heart was still pounding but she felt somehow proud of herself. She had managed to go by herself and it seemed like she got her first friends. Her mind travelled to Nick as she looked at his photo and the words he had said on their picnic. ‘Well, she did have some pretty dresses, actually she had several pretty dresses so she guessed she would pass there, she knew she got some colour since she burnt her nose a few weeks ago and she was going to get a garden which couldn’t count as housework, could it? Also she had made some friends; got embroidery to do in spare moments and then there was the art museum. But what did she want with her life, what gave her some pleasure and filled her with happiness? Who was she?’ Not finding any answers to her questions she got up and walked down to the study where she knew Jarrod would be.

"Jarrod, can I ask you something?" He looked up from his papers before putting them down.

"Yes?"

"Why did you and Victoria ask me to … you know the museum?"

"Well, hmmm" Jarrod twisted a little on the chair. "We got the impression that you had some education concerning art. I thought, and mother agreed with me, that it might do you some good to have something outside the ranch besides the fact that none of us know anything of art."

"Think I can do it?"

"Yes." Jarrod watched his sister-in-law walk around the room. Something had happened with her. For the first time he felt some jealousy towards Nick, wishing he had said he would marry her instead of his little brother. "Beatrice, Mother is dining out tonight."

"I know."

"Shall we go out too or do you want to stay at home?

"If you don’t mind I would rather stay here. I got a bit tired after the tea-thing this afternoon. Perhaps …" Beatrice blushed.

"Perhaps what Beatrice?

"They talked about different dances today and that Nick was good at it. I can’t …"

"Want to learn?" She nodded. "Alright, after dinner I’ll give you the first lesson but, that means, that you and I shall go dancing before we go back to Stockton in a few days." She nodded again.

"May I still think about the museum or is it too late?"

"Honey, it’s yours when ever you want it. Will you tell James that we are dinning at home and I’ll finish here?"

"Yes." Beatrice left Jarrod as he went back to his papers.

Salem

They reached Salem faster than they had planned. Nick was pleased over how the men had worked and how things had gone. He decided that they could all have an extra day’s stay in town and head back in three days time. That would give him some time for fun too and a chance to check on that horse Mr Goodwin had wired him about just before they left Stockton. He looked over to Heath who was talking to Duke, smiling his way. He sighed. He didn’t like that. He knew that he had been off the hook long enough and that they would stay close to him for the next few days and he who had so been looking forward to see if Arabelle was still working in "The Mountain", the best saloon in this place according to himself, but first he had to see to business.

He rode up to Heath and Duke.

"I’ll ride to Goodwin. See to it that the cattle are taken to the pasture we’ve been promised north of town and then start planning how to keep the men in line so that all go back home with us in three days time." He sounded angry even if he didn’t mean it but he was so tired of those two.

"Yes, boss." Heath grinned at his big brother. "Plans already laid, you and I take care of "The Growler" and Duke and Thad will go to "The Mountain". See, planning done." He stopped teasing when he noticed Nick’s dark look and not wanting a fight right now he turned Charger towards the herd and rode around it. Duke just shook his head. He could understand Nick a little since he had been thinking if they perhaps were overdoing things and instead of keeping out of trouble were pushing him into some.

"Nick, see you later for some supper, alright?" Duke fixed eye contact with his boss and kept it until he got an answer.

"Yes, I’ll be at the hotel in time for supper." With that he rode off towards the Goodwin Ranch.

Nick came down to the restaurant feeling like a new man from the hot bath and clean clothes. Goodwin and his partners had been pleased to see him and after they had checked the cattle paid an even better price then they first had decided on. Nick had had time to wire it all back to Stockton and to send a note home letting the family know they arrived and would be going back in a few days time. Heath, Duke and Thad were waiting for him. Thad was feeling proud being asked to join the bosses and foreman for supper. He had been asked if he would join Duke as a "guard" keeping the others in order and he happily said yes since it also meant a few more dollars in the pay check. Heath had paid the others one fourth of what they were promised at the arrival home in Stockton, this in order to keep the men out of trouble.

"Heard Goodwin was pleased." Heath smiled.

"He was."

"And plans for tonight …"

"Has changed for you. I’ll go with Thad to "The Mountain" and that’s the end of it. We take a saloon each. Now what have you ordered?" Duke and Heath looked at each other; both knew why Nick wanted to go to that saloon. Heath sighed.

"At least think before you do anything you will regret when you get home, Nick." Nick stared at him and growled low.

Chapter Thirteen

Once more Victoria had them going through several shops. Beatrice was starting to think her mother-in-law was mad and insane at the same time. What could cause all this shopping? She couldn’t see the need for any more dresses, shoes or hats. And they had once again had an argument about the bedroom. It was only when they walked into a cloth shop that Beatrice relaxed a little. Victoria looked over the fabrics, picking out several that would fit into lovely quilts, commenting on the quality and colours. Beatrice got lost in the different colours and combinations and before she knew it she had made Victoria promise to teach her how to quilt.

"Pick out the cloths you want while I figure out how much you will need for a bedspread."

"I can’t do such a large thing to start with."

"It’s not harder than a small one."

"Are you sure, it sounds harder."

"Child, when you do your embroidery do you find it harder to do a large one or a small one."

"Hmmm, that depends on the stitches I would say not the size."

"Precisely, now you will need about three plain ones in two different colours and three pattern ones in the same two colours, all in all twelve different cloths."

"Twelve!?"

"Yes, dear. That would make the best and easiest pattern. Now it’s easy to do a quilt if you buy all the cloth at once instead of taking leftovers but then that is more of a challenge. I have several lovely quilts at home that I’ll show you; especially one I think will be of interest. Now young lady this is a secret so not a word. I saved a piece of cloth from every thing I’d sew for Nick up until he went to the war. He hasn’t seen it yet since I have been saving it for my first grandchild. I have done one each for every one of my children and am doing one for Heath now. Now lets pick out a pattern that you can do after the cloths are put together." Beatrice followed Victoria around and started to wish she never mentioned the word quilt. It was getting out of hand and didn’t seem that much fun anymore.

Russian Hill

Later Victoria took them to a restaurant up Russian Hill for a very late lunch. Just as they were going to sit down an older gentleman came up to them, introducing himself as Philippe Montmarie.

"Madam, I’m sorry for the intrusion but mademoiselle here reminded me of a young woman I knew once." Victoria looked at the expensively dressed man in front of her and then turned to Beatrice who shyly looked down at the table.

"From the look of it I don’t think my daughter-in-law knows you. Perhaps you are confusing her with somebody else. How long is it since you met this woman?"

"Pardon Madame, it must be at least 30 years and it was in Paris. That was why I was so surprised when you walked into the restaurant." He turned directly to Beatrice. "Mademoiselle, I’m sorry for having mistaken you for somebody else but you do so have the same beauty as my Angel had, except the colouring. Mesdames, let me have the honour to pay your bill as an apology."

"Sir, why don’t you do us the honour of accompanying us instead." Something had struck Victoria, something she had read about Beatrice’s mother and what ever it was her curiosity was peeked.

"It will be a pleasure, Madame." He held out Victoria’s chair so she could sit down and then helped Beatrice. After he had sat down he asked them what they wanted and when the waiter came he ordered for them and some champagne to accompany the food. "Tell me, do you often come here, Madame." Victoria smiled.

"I always come up here for the view when I’m in San Francisco. We live in Stockton where my sons run our family ranch. And yourself, you are clearly not from here?"

"Oh no, I’m French, but as it is in my country, I can’t live in it. I went to Louisiana to see some old friends. They suggested I should visit California and see if I can find the right land to grow grapes. My family have made the best Champagne in France for decades, and some fine wine too." Beatrice shyly studied the man. He had been to her parts of the country and she wondered where.

"Louisiana? Beatrice here is from Baton Rouge. She married one of my sons a few weeks ago."

"Congratulations, Madame. I did visit your home town about two months ago. The woman I talked about is buried there I’m afraid."

"Was it you who put the red rose on Mother’s grave?" As soon she had said it she put her hand in front of her mouth and looked down. Victoria couldn’t help her smile as she leaned forward and squeezed Beatrice’s arm.

"Mais oui, if it was Angelique Masarine, that is." Philippe looked at the young woman and smiled. He could see his Angel in this woman, he knew he wasn’t wrong. Beatrice nodded.

"Mr Montmarie, why don’t you join us tonight at my son’s apartment? I’m sure you and Beatrice would like to talk more and perhaps a bit more privately than here."

"And you are sure your son won’t mind? No? Bien I’ll accept your invitation. Lets talk about some thing else, like the beautiful view."

At Jarrod’s apartment

"Jarrod, don’t argue with me."

"Mother, you invite a complete stranger here just because you think he might, and I repeat he might have clues to Beatrice’s past."

"Yes, Jarrod. Remember you told me that there wasn’t any marriage certificate from her parents, what if it was because her father wasn’t American. Beatrice was born shortly after her mother returned to Baton Rouge. Besides what’s the harm? He seems to have known Angelique and I think it will do Beatrice good to speak with somebody who knew her mother."

On the way to Stockton

Nick rode quietly a bit behind the others. They had bought the horse that Goodwin had suggested and a couple of others. He had been mystified by the wire from Jarrod that they had gotten just as they were about to leave Salem. "Good. Apology accepted. Surprise waiting at home." What on earth was the surprise? Well, just ten more days then he would know. He thought of the few days that had passed. Arabelle had been a disappointment the moment he saw her again and so had the other girls. He had really tried hard to find someone he had wanted to spend the night with, not that there hadn’t been willing ladies but he …. He shook his head. The sun was already high in the sky heating both men and horses. He noticed that the others halted, waiting for him.

"Are you alright Nick?" Heath was getting worried. A quiet Nick could be as bad has a hot tempered one, only you didn’t know when the blow came. Or it could be that something was really worrying him, and if so Heath wanted to know what.

"Yep, alright. Just enjoying the ride, that’s all. If I remember right, there should be a watering hole just over that ridge. Think we can make it and then take a break?"

"Sure." Heath decided that he better stay close to his brother. Taking a break? Something was wrong, very wrong.

After a short break letting the animals rest from the sun they rode on as long as it was daylight. After everyone was settled for the night Nick went over to Duke and asked if he would walk with him. Duke, being worried too over his boss’ silence stood up at once and followed to the edge of the river they were following.

"Duke, may I ask something very privately? You don’t need to answer if you don’t feel like it." Nick looked at the man who together with his father had been a mentor for him.

"Sure Nick." He walked over and sat down on a tree trunk, watching the man in front of him. He could see that what ever it was it was bothering Nick. Please Lord; don’t let it be about some bad news like a child or something. "Nick, I’ll answer what I can but perhaps your brother should be here too."

"Huh, no I don’t want Heath to know." Nick let his hand run over his face, lifted up his hat and run his hand through the hair before putting it back. "I …, well you know the situation with Beatrice, I guess I …" He flung out his hands in despair.

"Nick, come and sit with me. I know Heath and I have been giving you a hard time but it is for the best. We just didn’t want you to be too hasty about things."

"I know and you’re right." Duke could hardly hear him as Nick stood mumbling. Just as he was getting up to walk over to him, Nick strode over and sat down next to him. "It wasn’t right of me to do what I did and then just leave, Mother was right too. I sort of want her to be there when I come back but I don’t know how to handle things."

"Your Mother?"

"No, Beatrice. It’s just that I’m afraid I might lose my temper with her if she behaves like she did. Mother said to court her but how? That is something you do before. Shall I ask Jarrod for permission to see her or what? Leave a letter on the pillow? And what’s the surprise? I’m scared Duke. Sure wish Father was here." Duke put a fatherly arm around him, pleased that it was dark so that nobody could see his smile.

"Nick, your Father and I, well son, sometimes I think you were my child too." He chuckled a little. "Sorry Nick, my beloved wife could probably give you better answers than I but I think she would say that appropriate gifts now and then, perhaps a flower, are things that will keep any marriage alive. The letter idea wasn’t that bad. I remembered when we were just married and I had to leave for a cattle drive she had put little notes in my bags to find during the time I was away. The impression I have got of your wife that she very much likes things simple. Talk to her, give her time. Why don’t you teach her how to ride?"

"She is scared of horses. I guess I could give her some flowers, she did spend a lot of time in Mothers garden or on the chair swing." Nick looked at his hands. "It’s so hard Duke to think that she is going to be the one I’ll spend the rest of my life with."

"Nick, relax and enjoy the ride home. It will be nearly a month since you saw her when we get home and after the lecture you gave her before we left who knows she …" He felt Nick’s shoulders tighten. "Well, Victoria and Jarrod have been there with her. Perhaps they have given her a hand. Nick, when we started you had made your decision, what changed?"

"I guess, in a way your, Heath’s and Mother’s words did sink in, but also I thought of her and the life she must have lived." He looked at his clenched hands and whispered. "And I have sort of missed her. I know it’s weird since I really don’t know her and that too is something that scares me." Nick straightened himself and sneered. "Who would believe that Nick Barkley could be scared of something like this?"

“Nick I would be more worried if you didn’t say that you were scared or frightened. Being married is not something to take lightly. Knowing you the feelings you are having now are urging you to do the right things, instead of just rushing away.”

A girl’s day out

The four women stepped out of the coach and rushed into the shop as the rain was pouring down. Beatrice hesitated just long enough to read what it said on the sign: "The Wonder" Millinery store. Plumes, boas and capes.

"Hurry, Bea. You are going to be wet." Grizelda Norman was one of Jennie’s oldest and dearest friends and had said yes at once when Jennie suggested that she’d come along. She had liked the new Mrs Barkley even if she was a bit shy and country. The chance to spend a day with her girlfriends and this new shop was too good to say no to. Her husband hadn’t been too pleased remembering the bills from the last time the girls were out but had been assured by David that he and Jarrod would escort the ladies and that they, as well as Grizzy’s husband were more than happy to join them in the evening. As it happened both Jarrod and David were prevented from following the ladies.

"I’m coming. I just can’t believe that I’m going shopping one more day."

"This time it won’t be the stuff you shop for when your mother-in-law is with you, even if it is Aunt Victoria." Jennie giggled. "This time we are going to show you the shops you go to for your own sake."

"And your husband. When you have been married as long as I and Morris you need something to surprise him with sometimes. I guess as a newly wed and to Nick you are in no need." Isabel Zorrigan was another last of the "Three Musketeers" as David called them. She was a chubby woman with a generous smile and laughter. Her eyes glittered with joy. With six children at home she took every chance to spend some time away from home, letting the nanny deal with them.

"I doubt we’ll find any of that in here, dear Bella. However we will find the very best hats and boas. And with prices even my husband would be pleased with. You see Bea, this shop has the largest assortment of …" She put a red feather boa around her neck and threw the end over her shoulder. Beatrice smiled. Just the ride to the shop had been fun and these three seem to accept her as she was. As it was, only Jennie knew the whole story, having seen Jarrod the day before forcing him to tell her the things David hadn’t told her about. After she heard about how Beatrice had been treated the last fifteen years she was even more determined that this was going to be one memorable day. Seeing that Beatrice just walked around not really knowing what to look at she grabbed her arm and pulled her towards the fans and capes.

"I spent a whole party once teaching Nick the language of a fan. We must get you one and teach you how to use it."

"A fan?"

"Oh, you don’t know how much you can say with it without even saying a word. And besides that it’s useful." She picked out several in different colours and decorations.

"They are beautiful." She opened it. "Hmmm, I remember Mother had one I think in lace and a sunshade to go with it. She used to sit on the veranda looking out over the garden." She picked up one more.

"Bea, at these prices you can afford at least a couple." Beatrice smiled to her side.

"Sounds like you have been talking to Jarrod. 'Beatrice, shop what you want, don’t mind the cost.'" She tried to imitate him which made the girls giggle. Grizzy came and put a blue boa around her neck.

"Not bad, Lady. Perhaps we should see if they have a green to match your eyes. Oh yes, there, una momento, my Ladies." She went over got what she had seen and placed it also around Beatrice neck.

"I think it’s one to many. It tickles."

"Looks great though."

After nearly two hours in the shop the four women headed for the next one. They took the cable-car to the end before taking a coach. Beatrice wondered where on earth they were heading but none of the others said a word. At last they stopped outside a small building with a small sign "Victoria’s secrets". Jennie knocked on the door and a small window opened.

"Mrs Freeman with company." The door opened. They were let into the shop. Every where there were hanging lingerie in different shapes, colours, models, some were very unspeakable, some more modest. Beatrice felt her cheeks turn red. This was definitely something you didn’t talk about.

"Come on, honey. Let’s find something that will make that man of your speechless." Grizzy pulled out a black corset. "Hmmm, I think I shall have this one for myself. It will make Mr Norman crazy."

"Oh yes, in many ways." Bella started to look for something that would fit her while Jennie went over and rescued Beatrice from Grizzy.

"Come, They have got things here that are more normal too and that I think you might like. We come here now and then. It’s the best shop for lingerie in the whole of California but you have to be introduced. Mrs Rose who owns it couldn’t be here today but said that we could choose what we wanted and that she would add your name to the guest list. That way you can come here anytime you like. Today I’ll help you. Buying new things right now isn’t fun but just wait in three months time I’ll be buying the whole shop." Giggling she moved Beatrice to a sofa and sat her down. With a very knowing look she let her eyes sweep over her friend. "Wait here. I’ll be back with the latest for you. I was here a few days ago and talked with Mrs Rose." She winked her eye as she left the room. Beatrice sat there wondering what on earth was happening. She heard the others comment on a few things as she let her own eyes travel over to the models that were placed on the counter. With a glimpse towards the drape that Jennie had gone through she stood up and walked over to the counter. Taking a closer look at the different models she realised that she had never owned such beautiful underwear. The material was so silky and soft.

"Lovely aren’t they?" Beatrice jumped as a low voice talked to her.

"Yes, they are, Madame"

"Oh, Mrs Rose. You did make it. I just told my friends that you wouldn’t be here." Jennie walked up to the woman.

"Mrs Freeman, you are one of my best customers and always introduce me to new customers, so I did what I could to rearrange some of my schedule to make it. Now please introduce me to this beautiful lady."

"Mrs Rose, this is Beatrice Barkley. She moved to Stockton from Louisiana as she married a dear friend of mine. I know that she has been shopping with her mother-in-law but I figured there might be something missing. And beside that I think a Lady always should have lingerie that makes her feel beautiful and happy, and not always dress for her man or practical."

"Mrs Barkley, It’s a pleasure meeting you. Mrs Freeman is right, you know. I always wear something I guess most people would say is indecent. It cheers me up and makes me feel good. Now let me have a look at you. Newly wed? Hmmm, Barkley isn’t an unknown name in these parts of California. Which one of the brothers?" Mrs Rose smiled.

"Nick." Beatrice felt that her cheeks were still hot and reddish.

"NICK BARKLEY? You managed to get him to the altar. Lassy." Mrs Rose shook her head. "Now I would have guessed Jarrod, even the new one Heath, just not Nick." Beatrice looked surprised at the woman’s reaction to her husband’s name.

"I’m sorry that I don’t understand what’s wrong."

"Nothing, lassie. I’m sorry for my way of acting. Now have you found anything you like?" Mrs Rose caught Jennie’s eye.

"Mrs Rose, I was fetching the items you showed me the other day. I think they would be perfect for Beatrice, don’t you?"

"Yes, they would. Get them and get the things that are in my office too please. Come sit here with me. When I first get to meet a new lady I want to find out what they are like and what type of lingerie they wear. I know very private questions but so helpful for me. Also if you are interested in something special just let me know. Thanks Love. See to your friends in the shop that they get some coffee too and well you know."

"I know. Beatrice, listen to her and tell her everything, she knows her things. I and the others can spend hours here so don’t hurry. We have all been where you are sitting now." Jennie left, closing the drape tightly behind her.

"Mrs Rose, I have never seen … I mean I have never been …" Beatrice blushed.

"Don’t worry. I started this shop just because there wasn’t anywhere for us ladies to go and find good quality things without being too embarrassed. If you want I can pick out some things for you and then we can start talking about them. Now what do you sleep in?"

"A cotton nightie." Mrs Rose looked at her. The girl was beautiful. She could understand Nick Barkley’s choice but knowing him as she did she didn’t think that a cotton nightdress would catch his interest very much.

"Mrs Barkley, come you will need at least two silk nightdresses and definitely a negligee to attract that man of yours. You are a beautiful woman and from what I can see have a lovely body. Let’s make the most of it." She went over to the wardrobes and picked out what she wanted. Turning to Beatrice with three different ones she nodded towards the fitting room. "Try them on while I look for some other things. If you want help and feel comfortable with it I can ask Mrs Freeman in."

"Yes, please. I think I’ll need all the help I can get."

Beatrice left "Victoria’s Secret" two hours later with several items packed in beautiful boxes. The other three had also found something, even Jennie. Mrs Rose had taken home something special for expecting mothers with Jennie in her mind. Mrs Rose had also given them a present each, to be opened in privacy.

"Next stop is the Beauty Parlour. Can you manage Beatrice?" Jennie saw her friend trying to arrange all the boxes and parcels she had.

"I think so, I just don’t know how I’ll get everything home and to think I thought my mother-in-law was shopping mad." The girls started to laugh.

"Honey, this is nothing yet. After the parlour I’ll see if I can get hold of a coach and take all our things home. I need to check in with Mr Norman anyway before we go to the theatre tonight."

"Me too, need to check on the kids. Why don’t we divide the things between us Grizzy? I pass Jarrod’s apartment on the way to my house and you pass the Freeman’s."

"Consider it done. Here we are."

"What is a Beauty Parlour?" Beatrice smiled at her friends, hoping it wasn’t something like the last shop.

"It’s a new thing here. We shall get our hair done, nails, and faces everything. I ordered the special package since I felt we all needed a special treat. Grizzy needs cheering up, Jennie, well she has the tummy to think of and not long from now this is perhaps the last thing she will think of, me, as a mother of six and a grumpy husband I definitely need this treat and you my dear, for you it’s an introduction. It’s our way of welcoming you into our group, showing you our special places."

"Thank you for sharing them with me."

"You are welcome love. Just remember every time you are here in town we expect to have a girl’s day out." They walked into the parlour and were greeted by Mr Hurricane.

"Mrs Zorrigan, how nice to see you and your lovely ladies. This way, the room is ready." He led them to a large room where there were a large sofa at one side and small booths at another.

"Ladies, have a seat after you have picked what you want to eat. Now who shall we start with and any specific requests."

"Mr Hurricane, we want you to take special care of Mrs Barkley today. The rest of us just want the usual."

"Well, Mrs Barkley, please come with me."

"Go Beatrice, and trust him. Let him do what he wants and you won’t be disappointed." Beatrice followed the man, sat down in the chair he showed her and let him take care of her.

Several hours later the women went different ways with Bella and Grizzy taking all the shopping with them. Jennie pulled Beatrice into a coach getting ready for one more shop.

"I need some help with something. I need to get a few things for the nursery and when I go with Mother we always end up arguing and talking to David isn’t much help either since he always say that I should choose what I want. There is a new shop with everything you need for the home and I have seen a lovely cot, nursing table and rocking chair. I would like to have your opinion on them too if it’s alright and you can handle one more shop?"

"Sure, if you think I can be of some help." They arrived at "Housewear" and walked into the four floor high shop. Starting at the top they worked their way down. Beatrice found a few things she really liked and with Jennie’s support and encouraging she bought them. The shop promised that they would deliver the things to the ranch in Stockton. Jennie bought the furniture for the nursery. Leaving the shop with a couple of bags each they headed for a café before going home for a rest and change before the evening.

Jarrod escorted Beatrice to the theatre. He and David had decided that after the theatre they would treat the women to "The Palace" who were having a dance that night. The gentlemen were joined by both Mr Norman and Mr Zorrigan. It was very late when Beatrice finally crept between the covers of her bed.

Chapter Fourteen

Back in Stockton

Beatrice stood up and straightened her back, overlooking her gardens. Since they had come home a few days ago she had been digging and planting from the early hours until Victoria thought she had had enough. But it had been worth it looking on it now. Mr Rosmunde had been there before they came home and dug up and milled the area so it was ready and waiting. The fence to the herb garden was made out of dog-rose bushes and inside all the edges were box or lavender. It was going to be beautiful when everything had grown in size. She had used stones and bricks to build up different levels before planting the herbs, bricks to make the path. Each day she had taken a walk and come home with different wild herbs but even with the ones they had bought from San Francisco there were some big empty patches. Yesterday Sam had got her two small citrus trees, one lemon and one orange from the orchard saying that they also belonged in the herb garden. These were now planted in a corner each. The herb garden was also going to have a gate into the kitchen garden combining the two. That garden still needed to be done. All that was there were the markings of the posts since a proper fence was going to be built; to keep hens and other animals out of it. She walked over to it and decided that she at least could start with the paths and the beds while waiting for help with the fence. Sam had promised to help her build it as soon as the boards were ready and he had a minute over

The afternoon went on as she continued to put brick by brick by each side slowly creating a path. She was so occupied by her work that she didn’t hear the commotion by the barns or the spurs approaching her. Suddenly she saw two feet where she was about to put down a brick and she looked up and there was Nick standing with his arms crossed and a brow raised.

The men rode into the ranch a few days earlier than expected, just as the sun started to set. They were happy to be back and everybody joked around. Nick grinned when he saw Sam.

"Hi there Old man. Didn’t expect us, did you?"

"No boss I didn’t. According to Mr Jarrod, you shouldn’t be here until, hmmm, Friday which is three days away. I guess everything’s gone well."

"Boss here wanted to get home so the rest of us just had to come along." Thad winked at Sam as he led his horse by Nick, who stood looking at the paddock. Smiling he went over to the mare and foal. The mare recognised her master and quickly strode over to him, rubbing her head against him. Sam stood holding Nick’s horse but gave the reins to Jim as he passed by.

"Just hold him; I’ll be with you in a second." As he walked over to Nick, Duke joined them. "Nearly lost the both of them Nick. If it hadn’t been for your Mrs’ I don’t know if any of them would have made it, especially the foal. She practical blew life back into her."

"Beatrice? She told me she was scared of horses, would rather walk than drive a buggy." Nick looked at his old friend with disbelief in his eyes.

"She probably still is but when needed she put that fear away. She does come down with carrots to the mare, if she is outside that is, doesn’t go inside the barn. So I let the mare go outside as much as possible. She is quite a lady, the young lass." Nick continued to stroke the mare and foal while he was letting the information sink in. So she had stayed. He felt some relief realising that he had thought that she might have left.

"You said she blew life into the foal." Heath had joined the men around the paddock and was now examining the foal.

"Yep, thought it was a goner so I was surprised to see her lift the muzzle and blow air into it. When I told her to let it be she told me off and ordered me to work on the mare instead and let her continue with what she was doing. I have seen it be done with kittens and puppies but never in my whole life to a foal." A low whistle came from one of the hands, another shook his head. Nick looked at Sam.

"Know if she is home?"

"I know your Mother and Jarrod left for lunch, haven’t see Mrs Beatrice this afternoon, since the sunset is near I don’t think she is out for a walk so she might be in the garden." Nick patted the mare and foal a last time.

"Sam, do you mind taking care ..."

"Go along Nick. I’ll take of your horse. And I’ll check over the new ones. They look mighty fine."

"Go Nick. Go and find Beatrice, she might not know if she should come down here or not. I’ll take your bedroll and saddle bags inside when I’m done with Charger. And with Duke’s help I’m sure I can see to it that each man gets his salary and the bonus we talked about last night."

"Thanks." Nick started towards the rose garden.

"Nick, wrong garden. On the other side of the house." Confused Nick looked at Sam and pointed towards the other end. "Yes, that way." Trying to remember if his mother had talked about a new garden he turned around the corner and stopped. He could see her creeping on all four apparently placing something in front of her with great care. He walked up to the ground that had been milled, sizing it up before he slowly walked over to the other side. Here there were already plants. What on earth was happening? He walked so that he didn’t need to tread on anything or the earth and stopped in front of her. The sun was shining in her hair that was loosely tied together at the end, just enough so that it didn’t bother her. Something was different with her hair; it was shining, nearly glittering. He stood quietly admiring it wondering how long it would take before she noticed he was there.

"Nick" Beatrice tried to get up as quickly as she could but steeped on the end of her skirt and fell forward. Nick quickly caught her but wasn’t fast enough and she hit her knee on the edge of the brick path. Nick heeled down by her side and stroked away some hair.

"Alright? Didn’t mean to scare you Beatrice." When he noticed the tears that were coming he helped her up before he carefully lifted her skirt up enough to check on her knee. Seeing the cut on it he lifted her up. "Now what did you need to do that for?" He smiled so she would understand that he was teasing her.

"I don’t know." Carrying her over the path he stooped just as he went through something that resembled a gate hole.

"What is this?"

"Victoria and Jarrod said I could have an herb garden and then she wanted a kitchen garden too. They said it was alright." She almost whispered. Her respect for him was still there and her knee was hurting.

"It’s alright. I hope Jarrod has had the decency to help you." He continued towards the kitchen door.

"He didn’t arrive until last night. Mr Rosmunde has dug and milled the earth and Sam promised to help me with the fence."

"Oh, he has, has he? Now I just got him several new horses to take care of, so …" He gently manoeuvred into the kitchen. Silas came from the dining room. "I guess we have to find you someone else."

"Mr Nick, you are home and Mr Heath too? Mrs Beatrice, what happened?" Silas hurried towards the couple.

"Yes, Silas we are home and I hope you are cooking up something special tonight because I’m mighty hungry. Beatrice hurt her knee; know where there are some bandages?" He sat her down on a chair and heeled in front of her as he pulled the skirt up enough to reveal the knee. He pulled of his gloves before he went over and got a bowl of water. When Silas gave him the cloth he gently cleaned the cut. "Don’t look that deep Beatrice; don’t think it needs any stitches." Just as he put the bandage Heath walked into the room.

"Alright, we haven’t been home long and you have already managed to hurt Beatrice. How on earth do you handle things, Big Brother?" He walked up to her and kissed her cheek. Nick gleamed at his brother and growled low.

"I tripped and hurt my knee, it’s not Nick’s fault."

"Hmm, I can see that you will be busy for a while so I guess I don’t have to race you for the bath. See you both later. Silas, I hope you have enough dinner for all of us because I can eat for two."

"Mr Heath, when dinner comes I’m sure there will be plenty enough. Better hurry if you want that bath first." Silas watched Nick pour out the water and walk back to Beatrice and lift her up.

"Nick, I can walk."

"I know." Smiling down at her he continued up the stairs and to their bedroom door. Outside he gently put her down. They could hear Heath already in the bathroom, singing along.

"Some lady will be happy tonight." Beatrice smiled softly as Nick looked with surprised eyes. What had happened to his timid wife? Opening the door he let her walk in first. She limped inside and to the nearest chair.

"Are you really sure you can walk? Didn’t seem so to me." Something was different with the room. His eyes run around the familiar room, noticing pillows in the sofa, a quilt draped over; it looked welcoming but that wasn’t it. A grin came in his face as he walked over to a room divider, a line of screens in a tasteful cloth. He peeked around it and there was the bedroom department. She had turned their bedroom into two rooms, he was sure that it had to be Beatrice because he had never seen such a thing before. Standing in the bed part he noticed a few changes too, the bed was moved a little so that the vanity table got a better place, a small bureau by her side as a bed side table and on the window shield where he had gotten so used to see her sit, several pillows lay, making a comfortable sitting place. Seeing the photos on the bureau he walked up to them, picking up the one with Beatrice and her mother. He heard her tiny steps behind him.

"I hope you don’t mind what I have done. Your Mother and I have had our talks about this room." As he turned he pulled her into his arms.

"I like it. Sort of makes two rooms doesn’t it? How did you think of this idea? Who is this lady?" He was still holding the photo.

"I saw them in San Francisco. That is my mother. Jarrod got me the photo and Victoria bought the frames. I’m afraid you are going to be angry with me, I spent a lot of money." She looked down at the floor as her hands were twisting a little. With his finger under her chin he lifted up her face.

"Any pretty dresses? Did you have fun? Then it’s alright. I got us some more in Salem." He smiled. "Don’t worry. I like what you have done but when were you in San Francisco? I don’t recall any talk about a trip before I left." A knock on the door startled them and Heath opened the door.

"Anybody here?" He peeked round the screens. "Boy Howdy, go away for a month and the wife redecorates." Nick felt Beatrice stiffen and hollered back.

"You are just jealous. Done in the bathroom?"

"Yep. I’ll go and pay the men. See you both at dinner." As he left Nick stroked Beatrice’s cheek before he bent down and gently kissed her.

"If you don’t mind, can I have the bathroom first?"

"I don’t mind, I guess that after a month it might be really needed." Laughing Nick went towards the bathroom.

About half an hour later he was looking through the wardrobe for his shirts. He had had problems finding his trousers for all the female clothes hanging there. Right now he wasn’t interested in what she had gotten; he just wanted to get dressed before dinner. As he pulled the door open to holler for Beatrice, he startled his mother who was just about to knock.

"Sorry Mother. I was …" Victoria looked at her shirtless son and went over to the bureau and pulled out a drawer.

"Here Nick. Welcome home. You should have let us know you were coming."

"Nowhere to wire from. Now that was a place I didn’t look in."

"Beatrice didn’t want to wrinkle the shirts so she folded them neatly instead. Where is she? Silas said she had hurt herself."

"Having a bath, she was pretty dirty too from lying on the ground. Mother, that is not work for a lady, you should have seen to it that Rosmunde did it." He quickly buttoned his shirt.

"And take the joy from her? No, Nick. Sam and George have promised to help her where manpower is needed and have so done, for the rest she has asked to be allowed to do it by herself. Besides it keeps her busy."

"Mother, I don’t want to start to argue with you." He went up and kissed her forehead.

"Good, because you don’t stand a chance. There you are Sweetheart, what happened?" Victoria saw her daughter-in-law limp slowly into the bedroom, wrapped in an old bathrobe.

"Nothing, I was just clumsy." Victoria looked her in the eye.

"Alright, see you two for dinner in 30 minutes. I’m off to change." She strode out of the room, closing the door behind her. Nick went up to his wife and pulled her into his arms, leaning his head against hers. After a few seconds Beatrice relaxed in his arms.

"I’ll leave you to get dressed in peace. Knee alright or shall I redress it?"

"It’s alright. I forget to tell you about the shirts but I see you found them."

"With some help, I was just about to get you when Mother came. Are there more changes I should know of? I figured that the smaller bureau is yours?"

"Hmmm, no don’t think so. Yes, I knew that you had made room for my things before and it went so well with the table you gave me and the screens I hoped you didn’t mind."

"I don’t." He gently stroked her face before placing a kiss on her head. "I’ll see you down stairs."

"Brother Nick, were just talking about you." Jarrod walked up to him and gave him a hug. "Here, we poured a glass for you too, figuring you would want one as soon as you came down. How on earth did you trust Heath to do the payroll?"

"Duke would be there." Nick took the glass from Jarrod.

"Beatrice alright Nick? Heath said he found you bandaging her knee."

"She tripped, hit her knee against a brick and got a small cut, nothing serious. You should have seen to it that she had help to do that work any way, laying bricks isn’t a female thing to do."

"I’m not taking that argument with her."

"Your brother has already lost an argument with Beatrice Nick and me more than two I think." Victoria came into the living room. She nodded as Heath held up the sherry.

"You are kidding, right? You lost an argument, counsellor and you too Mother? How on earth did that happen?"

"Believe me Nick, when she has set her mind on something she doesn’t give in. To my defence I have to say that in my case Mother too joined in."

"Actually, in all respects she has been right on both subjects." Victoria sipped her sherry.

"Talking about the lady." Heath nodded towards the staircase making Nick turn around. His stunned face slowly turned into a smile as he put his glass down. Beatrice was slowly making her way down, dressed in a perfectly cut green dress. Nick reached the bottom of the stairs just as she did. Holding out his hand to steady her he smiled at her as he couldn’t take his eyes away from him. She had transformed in a way he didn’t think was possible and he felt such pride flow within him.

"Sweetheart, you look amazing." He put an arm around her stroking her face with the other. Her eyes had gotten life in the tanned face. "I really don’t know what to say, you got me speechless."

"As long as you are happy, then I’m happy too. Still it’s just clothes Nick." She wasn’t prepared for his reaction, surprised over how strong it was. Her cheeks blushed as she could feel his eyes look her over.

"No, honey, it isn’t. Come." He gently placed his hand at her lower back and led her to the others. Heath winked at her.

"Too bad you are spoken for Madame; otherwise I know the perfect spot for a date. Hmm, Perhaps we can lose you husband and go there some day anyway. I can always find some reason to skip fencing or so." Nick gleamed towards Heath making the others laugh.

"Now Beatrice, I don’t recall seeing that dress before." Jarrod seized her up.

"You haven’t. I haven’t worn it until today and it’s made here in Stockton."

"And I haven’t had dinner with you since you and Mother left San Francisco."

"I want to know about San Francisco." Nick looked over to his mother and older brother.

"Oh, we have just been there for about two weeks. Couldn’t see why we should be sitting here rolling our thumbs while you boys were having fun?"

"Having fun!?" He looked at his Mother with despair as she stood up and walked up to him. Gently she caressed his cheek.

"Yes, having fun, now dinner and we might tell you some of our trip if you tell us about yours."

Tired and still confused over Nick’s reactions to her appearance Beatrice was sitting at her table. She had gone to bed an hour earlier but been tossing and turning, not being able to relax and go to sleep so she had finally given up and now sat by the table instead. Since the day Jarrod had given her the diary she had been writing in it. For her it had become a way to sort the day and the thoughts that were occupying her. When she started working on the gardens she started one more, keeping her plans for them in one place and noting down the progress even if ever so little had happened during the day. She had already done the entries for the day but now she reached for the more private journal again. There was too much on her mind, so many things that confused her that she didn’t know where to begin. Nick had been so different from how he was when he left, or perhaps it was she who had changed? No, he had been different. She heard the door open and close softly. When nobody came around the screen she put the pen down and went over to see who had come in. Nick was sitting in his armchair taking his boots off without the bootjack which she knew wasn’t an easy task. She was on her way to help him when she saw the dogged expression in his face and she hesitated to continue up to him.

Nick had carefully closed the door after him knowing that Beatrice probably already had fallen asleep. In the hour that had been since she and Mother had left him and his brothers by the pool table Jarrod had made him so angry, so frustrated but still so very proud of Beatrice. He sat down recalling how Jarrod had told him about the hard work she had put in to meet his demands and how worried she was about not having enough time to manage. Then his brother had the nerve to tell him that if he had any hesitations about the marriage then he should divorce her now at once instead of wait and see if it perhaps would work. He also, which angered Nick even more, had told him that there were several other men who happily would change places with him and that he, Jarrod was one of them. His own brother! And then Heath had joined in. Why wouldn’t they listen and believe that he wanted the marriage to work, that he would give her the time she needed and that he too would try to meet what ever demands she had. He had just left them as he felt the uselessness of discussing it with them, wanting to yell and fight. ‘Damn boot that wouldn’t come off.’ It wasn’t easy being angry and quiet at the same time and he really felt like growling and put his fist were he felt it belonged right now.

A small movement by his side made him raise his head and catching the sight of her. As he inhaled he dropped the grip of his foot. Such a difference, such a beautiful woman. How on earth had he missed this before? How could he ever have thought of divorcing her? He understood Jarrod’s words to him earlier that evening, the ones about how lucky he was having such a special woman.

"Beatrice, I though you were at sleep. I didn’t wake you, did I?"

"No, let me help you Nick. Please." He let her help him with the boots making sure that as soon it was done he pulled her down on his lap.

"Ok, what have you done to my wife?" He nuzzled into her hair, holding her close to him. The soft fabric in the negligee let him feel just enough to tempt him, her soft hair teasing him even more. He felt her body stiffen as he pulled her down to him then she slowly relaxed in his arms. After a while she put her arms around him and he smiled softly, holding her even closer. He caught the sight of a bare foot and his hand moved down cover it up with her negligee so that it would keep warm, giving it a light squeeze in the process.

"She is still here, just another wrapping." She mumbled after a while of thoughts rambling around her head. His touch caused turmoil inside her, a weird feeling of warmth, comfort and a little fear.

"No, sweetheart, that’s not just it. True, the appearance is different but there is something else too, something that you didn’t show before. When I first saw you in church one thing I noticed were your green eyes but they were lifeless, now they are shining like two beautiful expensive emeralds. Your hair, face, the way you move, it’s different. Jarrod told me how hard you have worked. I’m damned proud of you Mrs Barkley. I’m the one who should apologize for putting you through all this." He let his lips gently touch her head. She leaned her head against his shoulder.

"I … I want you to be …I didn’t … just not enough time." He couldn’t hear all the words she was mumbling but then he didn’t really care. All he could care about was that she was his and that he was going to do everything in his power to keep her by his side and make her happy.

Chapter Fifteen

He lay as still he could; studying her face. Not being able to resist he gently touched her hair picking up a lock and played with it before gently putting it back. Softly he then let a finger caress her cheek. As he felt her move slowly beside him he stopped and held his breath hoping she would fall back into sleep. Noticing that it didn’t work he placed a soft kiss on her head.

"Get back to sleep, sweetheart. You don’t need to get up just yet."

"Hmmm, I want too, it’s such a waste to stay in bed." He pulled her closer as he mumbled.

"I’m not sure I agree with you there."

Silas watched silently as Nick left the kitchen just as he heard Heath’s steps coming down the stairs. He had heard the discussion between the brothers last night when he was getting everything ready for the morning and had gone into the pool room to get the empty cups and glasses. For what it was worth he thought Jarrod had been a little unfair to his younger brother and he was a bit annoyed that Heath actually had joined in. For what he had seen yesterday and what he knew of Beatrice there were something to build on and neither of the youngsters were of the kind to give up easy but they did need the family support. As Heath stepped into the kitchen Silas made his decision.

"Morning Mr Heath. Coffee is ready. Afraid Mr Nick has got a head start from you today."

"Nick? Huh, I’ll catch up with him, don’t you worry. Need to talk to him."

"You do and you better apologise to him too. You and Mr Jarrod went too far yesterday." Heath felt the embarrassment rise on his cheeks. It wasn’t very often that Silas told him what to do so directly, most of the time he would just reason or even hint. He could see on the old man’s face that this time he was not going to be reasoned with. He hurried out to the barns. Nick was already talking to a few of the men, giving them orders of what needed to be done. Others were getting ready to leave for a line ride at the north pasture. Before Heath even got to his brother, Nick was in the saddle following Thad and Cliff, heading south. Duke came up to him.

"I gather that something happened last night."

"Huh?"

"Don’t recall the day Nick was out before you or didn’t wait for you."

"I don’t know, could be something else too."

"Don’t think it has anything to do with Beatrice or let me rephrase that, I don’t think it’s anything between them that’s causing this and I saw the look he gave you. He’s angry, very angry."

"Well, I better catch up with him." Heath turned to get Charger.

"Actually he promised Pete and Steve that you would meet up with them in the north pasture, apparently there have been some problems up there while we have been gone." Heath looked at Duke and then turned towards the gate where his brother had ridden out.

"You are right, he must be angry with me."

When Beatrice got out to her garden that morning she was surprised. Two of the hands were working on the fence while another was laying down the bricks. She stood watching them for a while at a distance before she approached them.

"Good morning Mrs. Mr Nick told us to finish the fence and path for you. We will be done in just a few hours. What colour do you wish on the fence?"

"White I think." She stood watching as they quickly worked. "Thanks." She slowly walked back into the kitchen feeling very disappointed. She had so looked forward to doing the work herself and she felt tears were coming in her eyes as she just stepped inside.

"Mrs Beatrice. What’s wrong?"

"Nothing I guess Silas. I just wanted to do the garden myself."

"Aren’t you then?" Silas helped her to the table.

"No, Nick has asked some of the men to help me."

"Nick is a gentleman Mrs Beatrice. I’m sure he only wanted to spare you the hard work. Besides the way you are limping I would say it’s a good thing you are not kneeling on the earth."

"I can understand that but …" She wiped away the tear that came down her cheek. "I sort of liked having something to do."

"Pity that he isn’t coming in until dinner. Sounds like you need to talk about it. Now you go and wash that pretty face of yours and I’ll think of something you can help me with."

"I don’t understand why he had to go out all day today, didn’t sound so yesterday."

"I think Mr Jarrod and Mr Heath can answer that question Mrs Beatrice."

Nick came back home in the early afternoon. He knew he had a load of paperwork that needed to be attended to and being out in the field had only postponed it. As he stepped inside the foyer he thought for a second about going to the garden instead to see if Beatrice wanted to go for a drive in the buggy. With a sign he turned towards the study and pulled off his gloves on the way. Stopping in the doorway when he saw his mother and brother in the room he inhaled.

"I’ll just get the books I need and then be off, so excuse me." He walked to the desk, more or less pushed Jarrod aside, got what he needed and left.

"Nick come back here. This is ridiculous. Nick." Jarrod hurried up to catch his brother.

"Leave me alone, Jarrod. I’m in no mood to talk to you and this time I won’t hesitate to use my fist, so back off."

"For heavens sake, aren’t you being a bit silly right now. All I said …"

"Was that I should divorce Beatrice so that you could marry her. She is my wife and I intend to keep it that way."

"What if she doesn’t want to be married to you? You do nothing but hurt her feelings." Before Jarrod knew it Nick’s right fist met his jaw and he slowly sank to the floor. Nick turned and left for the bedroom and the desk he had there.

Beatrice sat on the window shield working on her embroidery. She had opened the window a little and listened to the birds sing outside. She was so concentrated on counting the stitches that when Nick flung the door shut she almost fell off the shield, dropping her embroidery on the floor. Hearing by his muttering tone that he was angry she shrank, biting her lower lip in fear. She tried to think of what she had done to cause his mood, tried to find a reason for it but she couldn’t. Scared she bent down to pick her sewing up, causing a book that lay beside her to fall on the floor. Her hurt knee was still sore so she had to get down on all fours to manage with the task of now picking up two things. Struggling to get up she suddenly felt two strong hands help her.

"Hi there, what are you doing down there? I hope it’s not going to be a habit of yours that every time I turn up you end up on your knees." Smiling Nick helped his wife up. "Besides what are you doing inside? I thought you would be busy outside." Two scared eyes looked at him before she hung her head. "Beatrice what’s wrong?"

"Nothing, I just dropped my things."

"Those eyes of yours wouldn’t have that look in them if it was nothing. I had hoped I would never have to see it again. What is it Love? Why this scared look?"

"I’m not sure what I have done wrong." Her voice was tiny as she whispered. Fingers picked on the cloth that was in front of them.

"Wrong? For all I know you haven’t done anything wrong." He pulled her into his arms, wondering what caused all this. Then he understood. "Beatrice, I’m really angry with Jarrod, even though it feels much better now that my knuckles had a meeting with his jaw. When I came in to get the books he continued where we ended last night and I just couldn’t take any more. Well, then one thing led to another." He nuzzled into her hair, touching her face softly with his lips. Slowly he felt her arms come around his waist. He heard someone come and leave the room while they stood there. "Sweetie, why don’t you keep me company while I do the books and then we can go out to your gardens and tell me more about them?" He could feel that she answered him but couldn’t hear what she said so he pulled away from her a little. "Sorry."

"I didn’t want help."

"What?" Nick looked confused down at his wife, where she stood with her head bent.

"I wanted to do it myself." He still didn’t understood what on earth she was meaning so he lifted up her chin so that he could look at her.

"They are my gardens."

"Yes, they are. Beatrice, you have lost me. What on earth are you talking about?"

"You told them …" Nick burst out chuckling.

"Alright, I’m guilty of that. Sam had the new horses to take care of and since he had promised you a fence I got somebody else to do it and beside that I didn’t want you to lie on the ground. It wasn’t any work for a lady."

"But I wanted to." She tried to get out of his grip. "I am no lady."

"Yes you are. You are one beautiful lady." He loosened his grip around her which gave her a chance to get loose.

"But they are mine and you can’t decide about my work." She tried to get away from him.

"Oh no, you are not going to walk way Beatrice. He held her arm. "Come, let’s go and sit down and talk about this." He more or less pulled her with him over to the sofa and sat her down, placing himself on the table with arms crossed. He noticed that Silas had put a tray on the table. "Yes, the gardens are yours and I’m not going to say anything about what you do with them but I’m not having you do men’s work. Your father and Jarrod might have thought that it was alright but I don’t. Now I apologize for not telling you before I left this morning but not for having the boys help you with the fence and path. And I’ll do it again if I have to and young lady, on this ranch it’s I who am the boss and my orders are applied." Beatrice inhaled and was about to answer when she realised who she was arguing with. Her eyes gleamed with anger as she tried to control herself. Nick felt the irritation ebb away to be replaced with amusement. He couldn’t believe the difference in his wife. He could see that she was struggling with herself, seeing the anger in her eyes, hands pulled into fists combined with the hesitation and lip biting. He stroked her cheek with his hand. "Beatrice, say what you want. Perhaps you even should use your fists on me, anything just don’t keep what you feel inside you or shut up because you are scared of me."

"I’m not scared." She turned away from his hand.

"Oh, and who are you trying to convince now yourself or me? Look at me and say it again. Not good enough look me in the eye and say it louder." Beatrice tried to keep her gaze steady but realised she couldn’t do it. Her body sank together. His fingers were under her chin and with a light kiss on her lips he ended their discussion for a moment. "Why don’t you serve us some coffee and tea? I’m proud of you, Beatrice. You have come such a long way in just a month. We are going to have so much fun in the future." Smiling he stood up to move to a chair, when she banged the sofa pillow into him. Taken by surprise he sat down, just missing the tray, hands up to protect his face when she hit him again. When she had to catch her breath he bent forward picking her up over his shoulder and before she knew it he was carrying her over to the bed. She kicked her legs but he held them in a firm grip, so she used her fists on his back. Chuckling Nick dropped her on the bed and lay down beside her, shutting her up with his lips.

"Beatrice, at dinner last night when we talked about San Francisco I …. Well I …" Nick stood buttoning his shirt getting ready for dinner. "I thought it might be a good way for us."

"To go shopping? I have had enough for a life time I think."

"Of course not, and I’m sure you will be doing some more shopping before you know it." He chuckled softly. "I was thinking of going away for a week or so."

"You have just come home and there must be a lot of things that demand your presence, do you really have the time?" Beatrice walked up to him with his boots as he sat down.

"No but listening to Jarrod and Mother last evening I understood how well they have gotten to know you and I … well … I … I think I sort of got a bit jealous." He pulled his boots on before standing up. He walked over to her as she sat by her table by the window and he looked out. He could see the paddock with the mare and the foal. Pulling her close he leaned his head against hers. "I don’t think I thanked you for saving the mare and her foal. I thought you said that you are scared of horses."

"Hmmm, I am not happy around them, I don’t know what to do and they are so large and Mama fell from a horse and never got well."

"If I promised you a very calm and steady horse, would you let me teach you to ride and drive a wagon? Think of it, Sweetheart, it would make your life a little easier and you wouldn’t need to depend on others to get anywhere." Lifting her chin up he kissed her lips before he left the room.

Beatrice walked up to the window feeling the fear she had felt the day she had seen her Mama fall off and break her back. She could understand that it would make things easier but …. Tears fell down her cheek as she stood there. Suddenly she felt two strong arms around her. Two soft lips touching her face.

"Sweetheart, what’s the matter? Have I done something wrong?"

"No, Nick. I just miss Mama and I’m scared." Nick held her close.

"No riding lessons, promise."

"It’s not just that Nick, it’s so many things. I thought you went down."

"Good thing I forgot something. Perhaps I would understand things better if you told me about your mother."

"She used to ride every day but one day the horse must have been scared and we found her on the ground with a broken back. I was only fourteen. For a year I nursed Mama before she passed away. I’m sure there is more to it but since then I have avoided contact with horses as much as possible." She signed. Her eyes were on the mare outside. "I know that it would be easier if I could drive or ride but I’m not sure."

"Bea, Sam said that you would talk to the mare if she was outside but not in the barn, why?"

"I don’t know but I just find it very uncomfortable in the barn. Outside I can go away."

"Which you also could do in the barn, Sweetheart. I think you are right when you say that there is more to it than just your mother’s fall. Hmmm, are you ready for dinner?"

"Yes, but it’s not served for another hour."

"Then why don’t we go down to the couple in the paddock. That little one needs a name and her mother needs a carrot. Come." He reached over for her shawl and placed it over her shoulders before giving her his elbow. "Madame, may I have this walk with you?" Smiling she took his arm.

They walked past her gardens, stopping just long enough to be satisfied with the work that had been done and for Beatrice to tell her husband how she had planned to use them. The mare gave a soft neigh when she saw Beatrice and she walked over to the woman with the soft hands. Softly the horse took the carrot from the woman, before she rubbed her head against the man. The foal came up to the couple too before making a gallop around the paddock.

"Have you got any suggestions for a name? Just remember that it’s going to be the first in a new line." Beatrice stood thinking for a while. The foal’s coat looked like it glowed in the sun.

"What about Angelfire or Morning Delight?"

"Angelfire, hmmm, I like that." He whistled for the foal, who followed its mother’s lead to the man by the fence. Nick scratched its head. "What do you say about your new name, Angelfire? Not bad is it." The small horse shook it’s body before running off again. Chuckling Nick put his arms around Beatrice. "I think it’s time for us to go inside."

Watching from the French windows was Victoria. She didn’t know what had happened last night but from the happenings today and the exchange of words between Jarrod and Nick she thought she had got the picture besides she had eavesdropped when Heath got home and he and Jarrod sat in the study. Watching the couple come towards the house she silently said a prayer hoping dinner would go smoothly.

"Mrs Barkley, everything is ready when the family is ready."

"Thank you Silas. It seems as if it’s only I who am hungry tonight." She heard the door open and Nick’s voice so she walked to meet them in the foyer. "Hungry? Good. Silas just told me everything was ready but I was the only one here so I was getting a bit worried."

"Don’t worry Mother. We wouldn’t leave you alone without telling you before we left." He gave his mother his other arm and they walked to the dining room.

Chapter Sixteen

Dining room

Beatrice walked into the dining room hoping Nick would be there for breakfast. He had been gone when she woke up this morning. It worried her that she hadn’t noticed when he got up and that she for the first time for a very long time had slept so long. Just as the old clock in the foyer let the eight "bong" out she sat down. Victoria smiled towards her while Jarrod continued to read his morning paper. He looked like he had slept in his clothes.

"Good morning."

"Morning, dear. Slept well?"

"Yes, Victoria I have and for too long." She placed the napkin in her knee and reached for some toast. "Have you seen Nick this morning?"

"Silas said that Nick was out and on his way even before the sun was up. And that Heath left shortly after him. I find that strange that they didn’t go together. Oh well, I guess there is so much to do they just split the work and men between them." Victoria concentrated on the contents on her plate.

"I guess so." Beatrice put some scrambled eggs on her plate before reaching for the pepper.

"I can’t understand how you can put pepper on your eggs." Jarrod grumbled as he turned a page in the paper.

"Just a matter of taste. Why is Nick angry at you?"

"Ask him."

"I have done so without getting an answer." Jarrod gleamed at her over the paper.

"Then leave it." He stood up. "I am in court today so I’m not sure I’ll be able to make it home for dinner. Beatrice, remember the meeting at eleven today. It’s important you are there."

"Don’t worry. I’ll leave here in plenty of time." She continued on her toast and eggs in silence as Victoria sat watching her as she sipped her tea.

"I have a hunch what has happened, Beatrice and as I see it Nick has the right to be angry with Jarrod. Jarrod should be happy Nick only hit him once and then left yesterday."

"It has to do with me, hasn’t it?"

"Yes." Victoria watched as the young girl’s body sagged. "But dear, it’s not your fault, not at all. Give them some time, in a day or two they will be laughing at it. In their different ways they are both protecting you and they just need to work it out." She continued on her coffee. "Need a lift into town or are you driving yourself?"

"Actually I’m walking." She watched Victoria’s face as she answered. "I know, Nick told me yesterday that I need to learn how to drive a wagon. Victoria, what shall I wear to this meeting, what’s the custom?"

"Finish breakfast and I’ll help you pick out a dress. I know Silas is planning to go in for some supplies today. I’m sure he can do in while you are at the Cattlemen’s. You can’t walk, it’s too far."

Out on the ranch

Heath found Nick sitting on a tree trunk looking out over the valley. Far at the horizon the sun was fighting the mist and darkness. Heath placed Charger besides his brother’s horse and walked up to him.

"Mind if I join you?" Nick just glanced at his brother and shook his head. Heath reached for his pocket and pulled out two cigars and gave one to Nick. Lighting it he looked at his older brother, who still hadn’t said a word. "I’m sorry, Nick. I shouldn’t have been pushing or teasing you. I should know by now that you would handle things as they should be handled."

"Should be handled?" Nick finally looked at Heath. "Should be handled?"

"Take it easy, I chose the wrong words." He pulled in some air before blowing out the smoke. "I spent the evening and most of the night with the counsellor. Haven’t seen him get so drunk for a long time. I didn’t know he is … well you know … Does Beatrice know?"

"Don’t think so. I never thought …" He looked down at his hands. "I come home having decided that I’m going to do whatever it takes to make things work between Beatrice and myself. I was prepared to find that she might have gone or at least decided that she didn’t want to be married to me. But to find out that my own brother wanted me to divorce her so that he could … and then it’s you. Where are you in all this? Are you too just waiting for your chance, waiting for old Nick to make an even bigger fool out of himself?

"No, Nick. I do like her, but as a sister. All I want is that you don’t make a mistake that you will regret later. And I don’t want her to get hurt either, she has been through enough. Jarrod was a source of information, the more whiskey, the more he talked."

"He knows her pretty well." Nick sighed.

"Well, he has one advantage over you. While we had to go on the drive, he could entertain her and get to know her. Perhaps you two should go away for a …"

"I suggested that to Beatrice yesterday."

"And?"

"I don’t think we decided anything. Think you could handle things for a week?"

"Done so before. Where are you taking her?"

"Not to San Francisco but besides that I don’t know. Lodge perhaps? At least we would be alone there. I’ll let you know when we are leaving after talking to Beatrice tonight." He leaned back and stretched his legs. "You know, she was angry with me yesterday because I got her some help in the garden." He smiled as he turned his face towards his brother. "Never thought I would say this but I’m going to enjoy arguing with her the day she loses the fear of me that still is there. Her father must really have pressed her down." He chuckled. Heath smiled too, happy to see Nick’s twinkle of mischief. To himself he thought of what information Jarrod had told last night. In due time Nick would get to know it too, but not from him.

"Well, big brother, do we have a working ranch or not?" He stood up reaching out a hand to his brother. "You better get going if you are going to meet up with the men down south." Nick took the hand and stood up.

"You are right or I could go home to have a talk with the wife."

"You do that before she goes to that meeting in town."

"Meeting?"

"Jarrod said something about an art museum that the family apparently donated money to while we were gone. Didn’t you know?"

"Must have slipped my mind. You are right I need to go home, some one has to drive her into Stockton or she will walk."

"Walk?"

"She isn’t happy around horses Heath. It’s so bad that she hasn’t learned to ride or to drive a wagon. Apparently her mother had an accident and broke her back but I think it’s more to it. Heading my way?"

"A little while. Probably more to it otherwise she would be scared just seeing us on horses." The two brothers rode together in silence until they came to the point where Heath had to turn north to join his group of men. Nick touch the tip of his hat as his brother nodded.

Back at the house

"BEATRICE!" Nick strode into the house through the front door. He threw his hat on the table before taking the stairs two steps at a time. His mother came out of their bedroom.

"Nick, what on earth are you doing home at this hour?"

"From what I have learned today to drive Beatrice to Stockton."

"Nick, she is nervous as it is. Don’t make it worse."

"I won’t Mother. Is she decent enough?"

"She is so you can go in." Victoria walked away shaking her head. She never thought she would hear the day when her son would ask if he could go into his bedroom in case his wife wasn’t decently dressed.

Nick strode into the room and stopped at the sight of his wife. She looked splendid all dressed in the dark blue dress. Standing in front of the mirror she turned around to see how it looked at the back biting her lip. Thinking it was Victoria who returned she didn’t look towards the door.

"Will this do?"

"It depends on what you have planned? If you are going to work in the garden I suggest you change but if you are going to a meeting you never told me about then it will do." Beatrice turned in haste towards Nick.

"Nick, you are home. I though I wouldn’t get to see you until tonight."

"Was that why you never told me about this?" He walked up to her and took a firm grip on her arms. "I would like to hear things that concern my wife from herself and not from others. Is there more I need to know or shall I ask Jarrod?" His hazel eyes dug into her green ones. His face was closed.

"I had forgotten about it until I looked in my calendar this morning. Your mother and Jarrod wanted me to have something to do so when these men asked them to donate money they did so in exchange for a place on the board. I didn’t say yes to it until just a week ago. Please, Nick, you are hurting me, I’m sorry." He let go of her and flung out his hands before running them through his hair. Beatrice walked over to one of her drawers, pulled it out and got the envelope. "Here, there are things in here that I don’t remember, some things I haven’t bothered to look at too. A friend of Jarrod in Louisiana sent it to him. Jarrod and Victoria have read it before they gave it to me." She walked over to him with it. When he didn’t take it she put it on his desk and walked towards the door. Nick quickly passed her and opened the door. Not long afterwards, he placed her in the buggy and climbed up to drive.

In Stockton

"How long is the meeting?" Nick uttered the first words said during the drive to town just as he pulled the horse to a stand.

"I don’t know, surely it can’t be more than an hour."

"Alright, I’ll be here at twelve. If the meeting ends earlier I would appreciate it if you would wait here instead of walking away somewhere."

"I’ll wait here." He helped her down and watched her walk in. He wanted to go with her but realized that this was her thing, arranged by his mother and brother. He went to the livery with the horse and buggy, placed them there and then went to the saloon. As he entered he noticed that it was almost empty besides a few regulars and a couple of girls.

"Hallo, Harry. A beer please."

"Here. In town by yourself?"

"No, Beatrice is at a meeting, I’m just the driver."

"So basically you have time to kill." One of the girls came up to him.

"Not with what you have in mind." He took a long sip of his beer.

"Come on Nick. I know exactly what you need."

"No, Lucy. Not interested."

"She that good?" Nick looked at the girl raising his brow. "Alright, I’m going. Let me know if you change your mind."

Beatrice walked into the room, with her mother’s words in her mind, ‘walk straight and everyone will think you are someone important and treat you accordingly’ and with Victoria’s last words to her too, ‘be proud, remember you are a Barkley’. Everyone in the room turned as she entered.

"Mrs Barkley, we were wondering where you were as we are about to start."

"Well, I’m sorry if I’m a few minutes late or gotten the time wrong, Mr ..?"

"Sam Zachary, Madam. Let me introduce those who are here." He led her to the others who had already taken a seat but now stood up. "Mr James Campbell, Mr Jonas Andersen, Mrs Esmeralda Viggor, Mrs Euralia Madison and Mr Joshua Pickwick. And this is Miss Amelia Johnson, a reporter from ‘The Stockton Eagle’. She is here to report on the start of the art museum." Beatrice smiled to all as she was introduced. Mr Zachary held out a chair on his right side and she sat down. Soon everyone was seated again and the meeting started. As time went by she felt her restlessness grow and towards the end she couldn’t be quiet anymore.

"Why do we have to start so large from the start? Besides the costs for building the house all the art is going to cost a lot. I think we should look upon it from a different angle. Place the money to start with a safe building, safe from robbers that is and I’m sure several families in this valley will donate a painting. That will be much easier than getting money from them; money is something you keep tight, a painting with a small sign saying who donated it is something different. Then there are other museums that have exhibitions that they might lend to us until we can fill all the rooms by ourselves or perhaps we should have a room for just borrowed exhibitions. I know that even museums in Europe have been known to send art to our country. I myself I have seen some of Holland’s best artists that way. I also have the knowledge that there are art museums working together to minimize the costs, or even working with certain galleries." The quietness in the room was noted by her as soon as she stopped talking. In an instance she realized that she was just there because of the Barkley name not to think or come with suggestions. Just as she was going to continue Mr Pickwick scratched his chin and looked at her.

"What do you mean with the donations and signs? I doubt very much there is that much art here that is of value." Beatrice looked at him.

"See that painting on the wall Mr Pickwick. From where I’m sitting I can’t see a signature but it has … I’m almost certain it’s a John Constable. It’s easy to get an art dealer here to check things like that, if there is one hanging here there might be more." Mr Pickwick looked pale as he stood up and went to the painting.

"Father said a good friend gave it to him in London, instead of money. It says on the back: Thanks old chap for the food and warm room. JC. If it’s a John Constable it should be looked up."

"Or at the museum with a small sign: Owned by Mr Pickwick, Cattleman’s Hotel. If we tried to raise enough money to buy such an item we wouldn’t be able to open the museum in several years."

"Mrs Barkley." Mrs Viggor picked up her pince-nez. "It sounds as though you know something about art." The older lady looked at the young girl.

"Yes, Mrs Viggor. I studied art until I was fifteen and my family owned an art gallery." Not another word was said around the table. Beatrice glanced at the watch. It was ten past twelve. "Time is getting on."

"You are so right Mrs Barkley. Let’s all go home and think again. What Mrs Barkley is suggesting isn’t a bad idea." Mr Pickwick confirmed what she had guessed that everything had already been decided. "Let us have a new meeting, let’s say here in two weeks time. That would give us some time to also ask around the community as to how they would feel about the donation part." He stood up, signalling to the others that the meeting was over. Beatrice quickly got to her feet, nodded to the others and walked to the door.

"Mrs Barkley, can I please have a word with you?" Mr Pickwick called after her.

"It has to be a quick one Sir, my husband doesn’t like waiting."

"Then it can wait, would it be possible for you to visit me and my family tomorrow. I have a few more paintings that I would like to show you."

"I’m sure it’s possible. Would around three in the afternoon be fine?" He held out his hand to her.

"It would Mrs Barkley. We will see you here at three o’clock then." When she came out from the room the young reporter stood outside waiting. Again Beatrice was stopped.

"Miss, I would love to talk to you but my husband is waiting outside and he needs to get back to the ranch."

"It’s alright Mrs Barkley. Can I come out to the ranch later today? I would like to show you the report before leaving it for printing."

"I’m sure that is alright. Come around four." As the reporter nodded Beatrice hastened outside. Nick was standing beside the buggy talking to Jarrod. She could see that it wasn’t the friendliest conversation the brothers had had even if neither of them had raised their voices. Nick saw Beatrice come towards them.

"There you are. I was just about to come in and get you when Big brother here turned up." He took her elbow and helped her into the buggy before she got to say anything. As Nick got in to drive Beatrice turned to Jarrod.

"Hi Jarrod. Hope you are having a nice day in court and that we will see you for dinner tonight." Nick growled beside her and she gently placed a hand on his leg. As he got the horse going she turned to him and smiled. "Sorry Nick for being late but I came as fast as I could." Nick didn’t say a word for a long time, not until they were nearly home. He then drove the buggy away from the road and up to a small group of trees. There in the shadow he stopped.

On the way home

"I know the meeting took longer than you thought. I saw the old dragon Viggor leave." He locked the reins and sat looking down at his hands. "I need to ask you something Beatrice. It’s important you answer exactly how you feel and not what you think I want to hear." He fixed his eyes on her and she could feel the fear stir within her. "I need to know how you feel about Jarrod."

"About Jarrod?"

"Yes, Jarrod."

"I don’t understand Nick."

"I came home hoping to get this marriage to work. I hoped you had tried to change and I was prepared to do some changes too. I was pleased when I saw the changes in you, you had really done well. To be honest I was proud of you. Then that evening, after you and Mother had gone to bed, Jarrod told me that if I was getting a divorce from you I should see to it that it was done at once and not wait and try first, he told me that there were plenty waiting in line for you and he was amongst them. Yesterday he hinted that you might not want to be married to me, that I only hurt you. That’s when I hit him. I want to know Beatrice because if you’d rather be married to my brother, then …" Nick gazed out over the hills. He wasn’t sure he wanted to know, wasn’t sure what he would do if she preferred Jarrod. All he knew was that he wanted her to stay with him but if she didn’t he wasn’t going to force her. Beatrice sat listening to him in horror. How could he think that she didn’t want to be with him? And Jarrod, what had she done to make him think that she would rather be with him.

"Nick, I … I spent so much time worrying that what I have changed wouldn’t be enough for you, that when you came home it wouldn’t be enough. Your Mother and Jarrod have spent hours training me and still I didn’t think it was enough. I even had Jarrod teach me how to dance because your friends said you liked to dance. When you left that morning I was tempted to get my things and leave, in fact I had already packed but then I thought again. I wasn’t sure I would be able to do it but at least I wanted to try and your Mother promised to help. Changing the outside was easy Nick; it’s the inside that is hard. Habits, things I have done for so long are hard to change in just a month, but I’m trying, I really am."

"It’s not that I’m wondering about Beatrice. I can see that and as I say I’m proud of you. You have done more than I ever dreamed of. I thought that you perhaps at least had gotten something else to wear but you have done so much more. It’s Jarrod that worries me. I can understand that he has gotten to know you better than me, heaven knows I have been away most of the time we have been married. The question is: would you rather be married to him than to me?"

"No."

"Are you sure? Because if you hesitate the slightest …"

"I’m married to the brother I want to be married to. If you don’t want to be with me I’d rather leave than marry Jarrod." Beatrice voice was tiny; she was fighting with her tears, cursing herself for being so emotional. She hardly knew the man next to her but she still knew that she wanted to be with him, not anyone else. Nick looked at her, noticed her frightened eyes search for his. His fingers went up to her face and he dried away the tear that ran down her cheek. For a little while they sat looking at each other before Nick leaned in and gently kissed her.

"We need to go away and get to know each other. Would you rather go to Sacramento or somewhere else?"

"Somewhere else just not San Francisco."

"Why not? Didn’t like it there?"

"I did but if … I don’t think …" She started to bit her lip again.

"It’s alright I don’t want to go there either. What about the lodge?"

"Lodge?"

"They haven’t told you about the lodge? We have a lodge up in the woods. Mother gets it ready early in the spring and after me and my brothers have had our hunting week she closes it down. If we leave in the morning we can be there early evening. Mind you, it will only be us and nobody else."

"I would like to go there. Can we go by wagon or is it a ride?"

"Wagon for you, my Lady."

"Is it alright for you to leave the ranch?"

"I talked to Heath this morning. When can you be ready to leave?"

"Saturday. I promised Mr Pickwick I would look at some paintings tomorrow."

"Good, that gives me a day to get the things we need ready." He gave her one more kiss before getting the buggy going and back on the road towards the ranch.

Continued…