Jarrod and Rachel

Part 3 – The Third Child

by Janet

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.

Plot Summary: Sequel to Freedom is Precious. Jarrod and Rachel Barkley settle down to raise a family in San Francisco

Part 3 – Prologue

Jarrod and Rachel sent a wire to William that they were going to spend a week in Sacramento. Jarrod had some business there and they were going to enjoy themselves. Victoria, Nick and Heath agreed to keep Maureen and Charles until they returned.

“Now don’t you worry about anything,” Nick said clapping Jarrod on the back. “The boy will be fine. I promise.”

“I know Nick,” Jarrod replied, returning the gesture. “Son, you listen to your grandmother and uncles.”

“Me will papa,” Charles told him.

Both Jarrod and Rachel hugged their three-year-old son. Then they left for Stockton in the buggy with one of the hands driving it. Charles watched them leave.

“Me ready to help,” he said raring to go.

“We’ll go out first thing in the morning,” Nick replied, trying to quail Charles’ enthusiasm. “We’ve put off checking fence for at least two months now and some of the cattle could get out.”

“Yes sir,” Charles told him. “Me help you look.”

“I know you will boy,” Nick said smiling.

While Jarrod and Rachel were riding to Stockton, Rachel looked over at him.

“Are you sure the children will be all right?” she asked, a little concerned.

“I’m positive,” he answered, understanding how she felt for he felt the same way. “Mother raised all of us so she can handle two more for a week.”

“I’m not worried about your mother,” she said smiling. “It’s your brothers that I’m worried about.”
“Nick promised to watch Charles closely,” Jarrod replied, smiling at her. “I’m sure he will.”

“You’re right,” she told him smiling.

Chapter One

Early the next morning, Nick and Heath along with Charles headed out to check fence. Most of the fence they checked was in perfect condition. Along about noon, that all changed. Nick kept a close eye on the boy until Heath was replacing a post in the North pasture and asked Nick for help.

“Nick,” Heath called to his brother, “how about giving me a hand?”

“Charles,” Nick said standing in front of Charles, “you stay right there. I’ve got to help Heath. Now don’t move.”

“Yes sir,” Charles replied.

When Nick went to help Heath, Charles went exploring. He heard a bird and began to follow it. He hadn’t gone very far when he stepped on part of an air tunnel to an old abandoned mine. It had been covered over with planks but they had rotted. He hadn’t been paying attention. His eyes had been on the bird. He fell through.

“Uncle Nick!” he cried as he fell.

He hit the ground hard and didn’t move. Nick finished up and turned back to his nephew. He panicked when he realized that Charles was gone.

“Oh no,” Nick said looking for Charles. “Charles!”

“What is it?” Heath asked.

“Charles is gone,” Nick answered.

“We better find him,” Heath said. “Jarrod will have our hides if we don’t.”

“He couldn’t have gone far,” Nick replied.

They started to look, calling his name as they searched.

“Charles!” Nick called as he walked. “Charles!”

“Charles!” Heath yelled a little ways away from Nick. “Charles!”

Then Heath spotted the hole in the road.

“Nick,” he said, “over here.”

Nick hurried over to him. They both peered into the darkness.

“I can’t see a thing,” Nick said looking. “It’s too dark.”

“I’ll lower you down,” Heath replied, “using Charger. See if you can find him if he’s down there.”

“Right,” Nick told him tying the rope around his waist. “Lower away.”

Heath tied the other end of the rope to the saddlehorn of Charger and lowered Nick down. A few feet down, Nick saw Charles. He was unconscious, with deep cut on his head. His left leg was obviously broken. Nick carefully picked the boy up cradling him in his arms.

“Pull me up,” he said getting Charles fixed in his arms. “I found him.”

Heath backed Charger up until Nick laid the boy on the ground and finished climbing out. They both looked at Charles.

“Nick,” Heath said looking down at his nephew, “he’s hurt bad.”

“I know,” Nick replied. “How am I going to explain this to Jarrod? He trusted me with his son and look what happened.”

“This is not the time to worry about Jarrod’s reaction,” Heath told him. “We need to get him back to the ranch. He needs a doctor.”

“I hope that he makes it,” Nick said trying not to get upset at the prospect that his nephew might die. “Jarrod will never forgive me if he dies. Come to think of it, I’ll never forgive myself.”

“Don’t blame yourself,” Heath replied. “It’s just something that happened.”

“That’s not much comfort,” Nick told him, picking up Charles in his arms.

They rode back to the ranch in silence with Nick holding the boy in his arms. Every few minutes he would look down at his nephew but there was no reaction. When they arrived, Heath went on to Stockton to get Dr. Merrar. Nick carried the boy inside the house. When Victoria saw him, she was shocked.

“What happened?” she asked.

“I was helping Heath set a fence post,” Nick answered. “I told him to stay there and when my back was turned he wandered off. He fell into an abandoned air shaft.”

“Oh dear,” she said. “Let’s take him upstairs.”

Nick carried the boy up to Jarrod’s room, laying him on the bed.

“Nick,” she said, “you better notify Jarrod.”

“I know,” he replied. “I’m sorry mother. I didn’t mean for this to happen. How do I explain to Jarrod that I let his son get hurt?”

“We’ll deal with that after we find out how he is,” she told him turning her attention to her grandson.

When Heath and the doctor arrived, Nick waited to see how the boy was before riding to town to send the telegram to his brother. A telegram he dreaded sending. It took the doctor over an hour to thoroughly examine Charles. He looked over at Victoria and Nick.

“The boy is in critical condition,” he said. “He has a severe concussion along with a very deep and long cut on the back of his head. Probably happened when he fell. His leg is broken along with some ribs. I’m more worried about the head wound. He’s so young that there could be brain damage.”

The doctor’s words hit Nick like a slap in the face. He put his face into his hands. He knew that Jarrod would never forgive him if Charles died or suffered some kind of brain damage.

“Will he make it?” he asked shaking.

“I don’t know,” the doctor answered. “It’s too soon to tell. And even if he does, there’s a possibility that he’ll have some damage.”

“What can we do to help?” she asked.

“Keep him quiet, warm and talk to him,” he answered. “I wish Jarrod and Rachel were here.”

“Nick’s going to wire them,” she said looking over at Nick.

Nick nodded heading out the door.

“He’s very concerned about the boy,” the doctor said noting Nick’s reaction.

“He blames himself for what happened to Charles,” she replied. “He promised Jarrod that he would look after Charles and now he feels guilty because he wandered off and got hurt.”

“It’s not his fault,” he told her. “Boys are natural explorers.”

“So are girls,” she said. “But that’s the way Nick is. When he promises something, he doesn’t like to break it.”

“Tell Jarrod that we need to give the boy some time to see how much he improves,” he replied. “I’ll be back in the morning. And try not to worry. He’s young and healthy.”

“All right,” she told him walking to the door with him.

Nick rode into Stockton and walked into the telegraph office. Ned looked up from behind the desk.

“Nick,” he said smiling, “I haven’t seen you much the last few weeks.”

“Ned,” Nick replied, not looking at the man, “I need to send a wire immediately.”

“Sure,” Ned told him, handing him a paper and pen.

He could tell that something was wrong with Nick. Nick composed a brief note to his brother and sister-in-law. It read:

Jarrod,

Come home now. Charles hurt badly.

Nick

Nick handed the note to Ned.

“I’ll send it right now,” Ned said. “Who is Charles?”

“My nephew,” Nick replied. “Jarrod’s son.”

“Oh dear,” Ned told him.

“It was my fault and now I have to tell my brother that I let his son get hurt,” Nick said.

“Don’t be so hard on yourself,” Ned replied. “Jarrod’s levelheaded. He’ll understand.”

“No he won’t,” Nick told him. “I made a promise to him.”

“Promises sometimes have to be broken,” Ned said. “I’ll get it out right away.”

Nick nodded and left. Ned watched him go. He knew that Nick was not only concerned for his nephew but he was blaming himself.

“I hope Jarrod listens to him,” he said out loud. “I don’t want to see those two angry at each other.”

He sent the wire to Sacramento.

Chapter Two

At the hotel in Sacramento, Jarrod and Rachel were relaxing. Jarrod had finished up his work and was looking forward to spending some time with his lovely wife. Rachel looked over at her husband with a smile on her beautiful face.

“What are you so happy about?” he asked.

“What would you think about adding another member to our family?” she wanted to know.

“Are you serious?” he asked.

“Very,” she answered.

“I think it would be wonderful,” he said also smiling. “Maybe I can finally get that son I wanted Charles to be to take over my law practice someday.”

There was a knock on the door. Jarrod rose, walking to the door and opened it. A young man stood there holding a piece of paper out to him.

“This telegram came for you,” he said. “It was marked ‘deliver immediately.’”

“Thank you,” Jarrod replied taking the paper from the man and paying him for his trouble.

Closing the door, Jarrod opened the wire and read it. His face turned white as a sheet. He began to shake all over. Rachel looked at him, concerned for her husband’s health.

“What is it?” she asked very concerned.

“It’s a wire from Nick,” he answered, his voice shaking with emotion. “Charles has been badly hurt and they want us home immediately.”

“Oh Jarrod,” she said rising. “Not my little boy.”

“Rachel,” he replied, “let’s not jump to conclusions. Let’s go back to the ranch to see what’s going on.”

“I’ll get packed,” she told him. “I meant what I said Jarrod. I want to have another child.”

“We can talk about it later,” he said, but he wasn’t happy.

He was very worried about his young son. Why had Nick let it happen? He had promised to take care of Charles. The more Jarrod thought about his son, the angrier he got with Nick.

“But we need to concentrate on our son,” he said. “I warned Nick to watch him close. I’ll never forgive him if Charles is badly injured.”

“You can’t blame Nick,” she replied. “It’s not his fault.”

“Yes it is,” Jarrod told her and he meant every word.

Chapter Three

At the Barkley Ranch, there had not been any change in Charles. He was still unconscious. Nick just looked at him with tears in his hazel eyes. He had stayed by Charles’ bedside since he had returned from Stockton. He refused to eat or sleep. He knew the boy was hurt because of him. Why hadn’t he just kept a closer eye on Charles? Then he heard the voice of his older brother.

“Mother,” Jarrod asked as they walked into the house the next morning, “what happened?”

“Jarrod,” she answered, “Charles has a broken leg and ribs but the real problem is the wound on the back of his head. He may never wake up and even if he does, he may have brain damage. He fell down an air shaft for an abandoned mine near the north pasture.”

Jarrod just stood there looking at his mother. Rachel was crying as she heard the news about her son. Jarrod finally shook his head.

“No,” he said. “It can’t be. Nick promised.”

Nick heard his brother’s words and he knew that Jarrod was distraught. Maybe he should wait to see him. Then he decided to stay right there and take his brother’s wrath.

“Jarrod,” Rachel said, “let’s go see him.”

Jarrod nodded and the two of them rushed upstairs to their son. When they walked into the room, Jarrod saw Nick. He looked at his brother with anger evident on his face.

“Jarrod,” Nick said, trying to calm Jarrod, “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean for this to happen.”

“You let my son get nearly killed,” he replied, the anger evident in his voice. “Get out! I don’t want you around my son. Do you hear me? I’ll beat you up if you don’t get out.”

“But...” Nick told him.

“Get out!” Jarrod screamed.

Nick started to walk toward the door but turned back.

“I’m sorry,” he said.

Jarrod advanced on him. He popped Nick hard on the side of the jaw with his right fist. Nick took the punch. He knew that Jarrod was over wrought with worry.

“Jarrod,” he said, “I didn’t mean for this to happen.”

Jarrod punched him again.

“Get out!” Jarrod cried, the tears streaming down his face. “From now on I no longer have a brother. I never want to see your face again.”

Nick finally left. Jarrod’s last statement had really hurt him. He didn’t want to lose Jarrod. But how was he going to fix this? Heath met him in the hall.

“How did it go?” he asked, but he could see by Nick’s expression that Jarrod hadn’t accepted Nick’s apology.

“Jarrod threw me out,” Nick answered. “He never wants to see me again.”

“Let him calm down,” he said. “I’m sure he didn’t mean it.”

“He meant it all right,” Nick replied. “You didn’t see his face. How am I going to fix this?”

“I don’t know but we will,” he told his distraught brother.

Chapter Four

Jarrod and Rachel approached the bed. Their son had a bandage around his head, around his chest and his leg was in a splint. He looked so small lying there. Jarrod dropped to his knees, crying for his son. Rachel was also crying. They held onto his little hand trying to give him strength. Rachel kept a close eye on her husband. She knew that this shock might cause him to have another attack but so far all that Jarrod was feeling was anger toward his brother and concern for his son.

“Rachel,” Jarrod said crying, “my son.”

“I know,” she replied. “Honey, mother and father are here. You hear my voice. We’re not leaving you.”

“Your mother is right Charles,” he told his son. “Papa is here and he’s never going to leave you. You fight to get well.”

They stayed by their son’s side. Victoria walked in to see how he was.

“No change mother,” Jarrod said. “I should never have left him with...”

He had to fight to get the name out of his mouth.

“Nick,” he said still angry. “He promised me.”

“Son,” she replied trying to comfort him, “it wasn’t Nick’s fault. Charles probably saw something and wandered off while Nick’s back was turned.”

“Yes it is his fault,” Jarrod told her. “I don’t want him anywhere near my son. And I don’t want to ever see his face again.”

“You don’t mean that,” she said. “Nick is your brother.”

“Not anymore,” he replied.

She just shook her head. Jarrod was serious. She knew that somehow she had to break down the wall he had put up. She looked over at Rachel, who shook her head.

“I’ve already tried to talk to him,” she said. “He wouldn’t listen then and he won’t listen now.”

“He’s just worried,” Victoria replied. “Jarrod, don’t let this come between you and Nick. You two have always been close and this accident shouldn’t take that away. Nick feels very bad about what happened. He stayed here all night trying to give that boy some of his strength.”

“You’re wasting your breath,” Jarrod told her. “My mind is made up.”

“That Barkley stubbornness,” she said. “You’re letting yourself get all worked up over nothing.”

“Nothing,” he replied looking at her. “My son is fighting for his life. That’s not nothing.”

“I didn’t mean it that way,” she told him. “After you calm down, you’ll be able to think more clearer.”

“Not about him,” he said.

“He has a name,” she replied.

“Not as far as I’m concerned,” he told her still looking down at his son.

Jarrod looked up, stood up and left the room without saying a word to either woman. When he stepped out in the hall, he fell back against the wall. He was exhausted and he was in a little pain from the shock of learning his son was badly hurt. Nick walked down the hall. Seeing Jarrod, he stopped.

“How is Charles?” he asked.

Jarrod didn’t say a word. He wouldn’t even look at Nick. He continued to stare at the wall.

“Jarrod,” he said standing right in front of his brother, “we have to talk. I need you to understand I didn’t let this happen on purpose. If I could have stopped him from wandering off I would have. You have to believe me.”

“Yes you did,” Jarrod replied still very angry. “And I don’t believe you.”

Nick looked into Jarrod’s face. He made Jarrod look at him.

“I wouldn’t hurt that boy,” he said his face inches from Jarrod’s. “And you know that.”

“I don’t know that either,” Jarrod replied trying to push Nick away.

Nick grabbed his brother’s arms holding them down by his sides.

“Jarrod,” he said, “I love that boy.”

Jarrod just stared at him. Nick gave up releasing his arms. Jarrod jumped Nick when he turned around to leave and began to pummel him. Nick finally had no choice and punched Jarrod hard in the ribs. Jarrod dropped to his knees and Nick kicked him in the ribs several times before finally realizing what he was doing and stopped but the damage had already been done. Jarrod was trying to breathe and was on the verge of passing out.

“Mother!” Nick called trying to help his fallen brother. “Mother!”

Both Victoria and Rachel hurried from the room. They saw Jarrod down on the floor, blood flowing from a cut on the side of his mouth.

“He jumped me and I hit him,” he said trying to help his brother. “I didn’t mean to hurt him or Charles. When Jarrod attacked me, I just reacted.”

Jarrod pushed his arm away. Nick rose, walking away. He didn’t look back. Victoria was looking at Jarrod.

“I better have the doctor check you out,” she said.

“I’m all right,” he replied but he was having a very hard time catching his breath.

“No,” Rachel told him, “you’re not all right. You may have broken or cracked ribs yourself. You won’t be any good to Charles if you have a punctured lung.”

“All right,” he said giving in. “I’ll let him see me.”

They helped Jarrod in Charles’ room.

Chapter Five

After the doctor’s visit that afternoon, Jarrod was resting comfortably. Nick hadn’t broken any ribs just badly bruised them.

“You’re very lucky,” the doctor said after checking Jarrod’s ribs. “You have only bruised ribs. Now I want you to rest for a few hours.”

“But doc,” Jarrod protested. “My son needs me.”

“Not that badly,” he said. “Look, you have just recently gotten over a heart attack and if you don’t take care of yourself, you could have another one.”

“All right,” Jarrod replied finally giving in. “I’ll rest but if there is any change...”

“I’ll let you know,” he told him.

Jarrod laid down in Heath’s room, falling asleep. Heath walked in to see how his nephew was.

“How is he?” he asked.

“No change,” Rachel answered. “Heath, what happened?”
“Nick and I were riding fence and we took Charles along,” he said. “The boy begged to come with us and Nick couldn’t turn him down. He wants to learn everything he can about running a ranch. We noticed a fence post broken off. I was working on replacing it when I asked Nick to give me a hand. He told Charles to stay right there and helped me. When we finished up, he was gone. Nick panicked knowing what Jarrod’s reaction would be. We began to search. I noticed a hole in the road a few feet from where we were. It was an air shaft to an old mine. The timbers had rotted and when Charles stepped on them, they gave way. I lowered Nick down and he found Charles unconscious. He brought him up and carried him home. He didn’t want anyone else to touch him.”

“I don’t blame either one of you,” she replied. “It was an accident. But how do we get Jarrod and Nick to speak to each other. I don’t want anything to come between them.”

“I don’t know,” he told her. “Maybe when the boy is better.”

“I hope,” she said.

Over the remainder of the day, there was no change in Charles Barkley. When Jarrod woke up, he immediately went to his son’s room. He stood there looking down at his son, the tears falling freely down his face. Rachel put her arms around him and he held her tightly.

“Jarrod,” she said, “you can’t blame Nick for this. It was an accident.”

“Yes I can,” he replied. “He promised.”

“It was a promise he couldn’t keep,” she told him. “He didn’t hurt Charles on purpose.”

“Maybe not,” he said. “But he shouldn’t have turned his back on my son.”

“Jarrod,” she replied, “did you know that Nick was very worried when he couldn’t find Charles. According to Heath, when they saw the hole, Nick went down to find him. He carefully brought him up and carried him all the way home. He didn’t want anyone else to touch him. He knew he had broken his word to you. He knew what your reaction would be.”

“Did Heath tell you that?” Jarrod asked turning to look at her.

“Yes,” she answered. “Nick loves Charles and you. He was heartbroken when he found our son in such bad shape.”

Jarrod stood there for a moment looking at his son. Then he left the room. Rachel hoped he was going to see Nick. When Jarrod walked downstairs, he met Nick coming out of the study. He stopped.

“Nick,” he said very quietly, “I’m sorry I yelled at you. I realize now that you weren’t to blame for my son’s accident. I wanted to thank you for saving his life.”

“Jarrod,” Nick replied moving closer to his brother and putting an arm around his shoulder, “I’m sorry I didn’t watch him closer but he was gone in a matter of only a few minutes.”

“I know,” Jarrod told him hugging him tightly. “I’m the one who is sorry and grateful. Grateful for saving my son’s life.”

“I’m only sorry that I didn’t prevent it from happening,” Nick said returning the embrace.

“Charles is going to be a rancher like you,” Jarrod replied, finally smiling. “I want him to have the best teacher around. You.”

“I’ll show him everything he needs to know,” Nick told him. “I promise.”

“I know you will,” Jarrod said smiling even broader. “Come on. Let’s go see him.”

The two brothers walked upstairs together. When they entered the room, Rachel smiled. They stood on both sides of the bed and spoke quietly to Charles.

“Son,” Jarrod said, “papa is here.”

“And so is Uncle Nick,” Nick replied. “We want you to get well.”

“Papa,” Charles told them very low.

Jarrod looked down at his son.

“I’m right here son,” he said, sitting down on the bed beside of his son. .

“Me sorry,” Charles replied, looking at Jarrod with tears in his blue eyes. “Me left Uncle Nick and Heth. “No mad at Nick.”

“I’m not,” he told him. “See. Your uncle is right here.”

“Hi Charlie,” Nick said smiling.

“Nick,” Jarrod replied, “you’re the only one who can call him Charlie.”

“Papa,” the boy told him, “me love you.”

“I love you son,” Jarrod said smiling, lifting Charles to embrace him.

Chapter Six

Over the next few days, Charles began to heal. Fortunately there was no sign of any brain damage.

“Charles is a very lucky boy,” the doctor said. “He could have very easily died or had some kind of brain damage. I want him to take it easy for a few more days. Especially with his broken leg.”

“Doc,” Jarrod replied smiling for the first time since they had returned to the ranch, “you don’t have to worry. He’s not leaving my sight.”

“Don’t be a mother hen,” Nick told him. “He needs to spread his wings.”

“Listen, who’s talking,” Jarrod said looking at his brother. “Have you already forgotten how scared you were when he disappeared?”

“No,” Nick replied. “I just want you to let him learn the work of a ranch. I have a feeling he’s going to be right here when he’s grown.”

“I already knew that,” Jarrod told him. “Charles was destined for the ranch the day he was born. But maybe this next child will follow in my footsteps.”

“Next child?” Nick asked. “Are you saying what I think you’re saying?”

“Yes,” Jarrod answered. “Rachel is trying to get pregnant. We hope to add another child in the next year.”

“Oh boy,” Nick said slapping his brother hard on the back. “Another boy I hope.”

“If it is,” Jarrod replied, “he won’t follow after you.”

“How do you know?” Nick asked.

“I just do,” Jarrod answered but he didn’t know.

He just hoped that if he had another son, this boy would like the law. Nick noticed Jarrod’s face and his smile faded.

“Jarrod,” he said, “you don’t need to worry about it. You were the one that told me you were going to let your children decide on their own what they wanted to be.”

“I know,” Jarrod replied. “But it’s hard Nick. I have nothing in common with Charles.”

“He loves you,” Nick told him. “He looks up to you.”

“I know that,” Jarrod said trying to tell Nick how he felt.

“But you still wonder?” Nick asked.

“Yes,” Jarrod answered. “I wonder what it would have been like if he had wanted to be a lawyer like me instead of a rancher like you.”

“There is nothing wrong with that,” Nick said. “You wouldn’t be a good father if you weren’t a little concerned about what your children want to do with their lives.”

“Nick,” Jarrod replied, “thanks. You are a big help.”

“That’s what younger brothers are there for,” Nick told him.

They both laughed.

Chapter Seven

A week later, Jarrod and his family were ready to return to San Francisco.

“I wish you wouldn’t go,” Victoria said as she hugged and kissed her son. “It’s going to be awfully quiet without Maureen. She’s been such a good girl.”

“I wish we could stay longer,” he replied returning the hug and kiss. “But I have a lot of work to catch up on. I’ve put it off long enough.”

“Is it all right if I come up when the baby is due?” she asked. “That is provided you let me know.”

“You better,” he answered. “Rachel can’t do it all by herself. And we will.”

“Yes,” Rachel said. “We’ll look forward to your visit.”

“Take care of yourself son,” she replied. “And you too Rachel.”

“We will,” he told her.

“Bye grandmama,” Charles said hugging her.

“Goodbye Charles,” she replied hugging him and his sister. “You take care of your sister.”

“Me will,” he told her.

“Bye,” Maureen said hugging her too.

Jarrod and the family left the house, headed for Stockton and the train ride to San Francisco. Rachel watched her husband as they rode. She knew he had been very worried about their son. But she was still concerned about him. She knew he had been under a lot emotionally and she promised herself when they got home, she would have Dr. Samson thoroughly examine Jarrod.

They arrived in San Francisco late that night. They rented a buggy for the ride to the house rather than wake William. When they walked inside, William met them at the door.

“I was beginning to wonder if you were coming home,” he said happy to see them.

“We had a small emergency at the ranch but everything is all right now,” Jarrod replied. “We’re all tired and we’ll turn in.”

“I’ll see you in the morning,” William told them. “Maybe you will tell me what the emergency was.”

“We will,” Rachel said.

They headed upstairs to bed. William noticed the splint on Charles’ leg and knew that something must have happened but he didn’t question Jarrod or Rachel further for he knew they would tell him when they were ready.

The next morning, Rachel told Jarrod about seeing the doctor.

“Jarrod,” she said as he sat down at the table to eat breakfast, “I want you to see Dr. Samson. You’ve been under a lot of emotional stress and I don’t want you to collapse again.”

“I’m fine,” he replied, beginning to eat his breakfast. “I don’t need to see him.”

“Yes you do,” she told him. “It wasn’t that long ago that you had a heart attack. Do you want to die from one?”

He could tell from her expression that she was serious.

“All right,” he said. “I’ll make an appointment.”

“Today,” she replied.

“Today,” he told her.

After Jarrod left, Rachel filled William in on what had happened at the ranch. He was relieved to know that Charles was fine other than his broken leg.

Chapter Eight

Jarrod went to his office to see what had piled up since he was last there. It had been several months since he had been there and before long, he was working away the morning. When he walked in the house for lunch, Rachel met him.

“Have you seen the doctor yet?” she asked.

“No,” he answered. “I was so busy this morning I forgot all about it.”

“You forgot,” she said, momentarily showing her anger at him for forgetting. “You have been under a lot of emotional stress and I don’t want you to drop dead from another heart attack.”

“I won’t,” he replied.

“I know you won’t,” she told him. “I’m going to see the doctor and make you an appointment myself.”

“Rachel,” he said.

“I mean it Jarrod,” she replied.

“All right,” he told her “I’ll go.”

“Just to make sure you go, I’m going with you,” she said.

“I don’t need you to go with me,” he replied. “I’m a big boy and can do this on my own.”

“Then why didn’t you see him this morning?” she asked.

“I told you I was very busy,” he answered. “I’ll go.”

“Jarrod,” she said looking into his eyes, “I love you and I don’t want to lose you.”

“You won’t,” he replied.

She threw up her hands in disgust.

“William,” she asked, “will you drive us to the hospital this afternoon? I want Dr. Samson to see Jarrod.”

“Of course,” he answered, knowing better than to argue with her. “I’ll get the buggy ready.”

“All right,” Jarrod said giving in. “I’ll go if it will keep you from nagging me.”

It will,” she replied.

That afternoon on the way to the hospital, Jarrod had a spell of some kind. His head was lolling and he was unaware of his surroundings. Rachel was very concerned for her husband. She tried to talk to him but he did not respond. When they arrived at the hospital, it took both William and Rachel to get Jarrod out of the buggy. William had to practically carry him inside.

“I need to see Dr. Samson right away,” she said as she walked up to the nurses’ desk.

“What seems to be the problem?” the nurse on duty asked.

“My husband has had some kind of attack,” she answered. “The doctor has seen him before.”

“Who is your husband?” the nurse asked.

“Jarrod Barkley,” she answered. “Please hurry.”

“Just sit down and he’ll be with you shortly,” the nurse said.

William helped Jarrod to a chair. His head was still lolling around and he was still unresponsive.

“William,” she said, “take the children outside to the buggy and wait. They don’t need to see their father like this. I’ll let you know what happens.”

“Yes Ms. Rachel,” he replied, taking Charles and Maureen’s hands, leading them outside. Charles kept looking back at Jarrod. He knew something was wrong but he didn’t understand what. All he knew was that his father was sick.

“It’s going to be all right,” she told her husband.

A few minutes later, Dr. Samson came out. When he saw Jarrod, he motioned for a stretcher and two orderlies. They loaded Jarrod and carried him to an examination room.

“Rachel,” he said, “just wait here. I’ll let you know.”

Then he disappeared. Rachel sat down and waited.

Chapter Nine

Dr. Samson thoroughly examined Jarrod. Then he tried to rouse him.

“Jarrod,” he said bending over close to Jarrod’s face. “Jarrod.”

Jarrod began to moan as he opened his eyes. When he looked around the strange room, he was confused.

“It’s Dr. Samson,” the doctor said. “You are in the hospital. I need to talk to you.”

“Yes,” Jarrod replied.

“Were you ever injured?” he asked.

“Yes,” Jarrod answered.

“Were you ever injured close to your heart?” he asked.

“Yes,” Jarrod answered.

“Where, when and what was the outcome?” he asked.

“It was during the war,” Jarrod answered, coming fully alert and trying to sit up only to be held down by the doctor. “I was stabbed in my chest and laid in a coma for around a month. Then the problems really started. I came to find out that the knife had a foreign substance on it that kept the wound infected. Finally, I had to be operated on.”

“I see,” he said. “I’ll be back in a few minutes. Just rest.”

Jarrod let his eyes close. The doctor went to an office down the hall from the examination room.

“Dr. Patrick,” he said as he walked in, “I need your help.”

“What is it Tim?” Dan Patrick asked.

Dr. Patrick was a specialist in the field of war wounds and their aftermath. He was a gentleman in his 50s and had spent some time in Washington, D.C.

“I have a patient in the examination room who has already had one heart attack,” he said. “He is having something else but I’m not positive what it is.”

“What’s his name?” Patrick asked.

“Barkley,” he answered. “Jarrod Barkley.”

The name hit the doctor and he knew before the doctor spoke what the problem was. He knew the man.

“Is he Tom Barkley’s son?” Patrick asked.

“Yes,” he answered.

“I already know about the incident you’re going to mention to me,” Patrick said. “I worked with a doctor that had operated on him after he came home from the war. He told me that he was sure somewhere down the road he would have some problems heath wise. I want to talk to him.”

“Right this way sir,” he replied, leading the doctor to Jarrod’s room.

“I’m Dr. Patrick,” Patrick told Jarrod as he walked in. “I think we can help you.”

“What’s wrong with me?” Jarrod asked, his voice shaking with worry.

“You have a weakening around the tissue and muscles close to your heart,” he answered. “I remember because I spoke to the doctor that operated on you a long time ago. What we are going to do is to give you medication to help build the strength up in those affected areas. In other words, to make them stronger. It could prevent you from having another heart attack.”

“I’ll do anything,” Jarrod said. “I don’t want to spend the rest of my life wondering if I’m going to die at any moment.”

“First thing we have to do is to make sure you take it easy for a few weeks,” he replied. “By then the medicine should be in your system and strengthening those weakened areas. Once we achieve that, you will be able to go back to your daily routine.”

“How long do I have to take it easy?” Jarrod asked.

“At least a month,” he answered.

“I’m a lawyer,” Jarrod said. “I can’t afford to take a month off. I’m already so far behind because of the heart attack and you want me to take another month off.”

“You better if you want to get better,” he replied.

“All right,” Jarrod told him agreeing. “Will you tell my wife?”

“Dr. Samson will take care of that,” he said watching the other doctor leave the room. “Now, to get you started on the medication.”

“Will it be liquid?” Jarrod asked.

“Yes,” he answered. “You will take a spoonful four times a day for the next month. Then we will re-evaluate your condition at that time. During that month nothing strenuous. Is that understood?”

“Yes sir,” Jarrod said. “Perfectly.”

“Good,” he replied. “I’ll have the nurse give you the first dose.”

He left the room. Meanwhile, Dr. Samson had filled Rachel in on what they were going to do.

“Do you think it will help?” she asked.

“We have a chance to allow him to live a normal life if he will do as we say,” he answered. “Otherwise...”

“I understand,” she said. “May I see him?”

“Certainly,” he replied.

He led her back to the examination room where Jarrod was. When she walked in, he smiled at her.

“How do you feel?” she asked.

“I’ll do,” he answered. “I guess you heard.”

“Yes,” she said. “Everything will be fine.”

“I hope so,” he replied. “I want to get back to work.”

“I know you do,” she told him. “But you’re going to have to take some time for this procedure to work. In the meantime you can spend time with your two children. I know it would tickle them.”

“You’re right,” he said smiling. “And I will.”

Chapter Ten

Jarrod was able to come home late that afternoon. During the ride to the house, Charles kept looking at his father.

“Son,” Jarrod said, “I’m going to be fine. The doctor is working on making everything all right.”

“Me hope so papa,” he replied. “Me love you and want you be here.”

“I will be,” Jarrod told him smiling.

Two hours after they were home, Jarrod began to vomit.

“Rachel,” he said as he vomited all over himself, the paper, his chair and the floor.

Rachel rushed to his side cradling him as he vomited. She thought she knew the reason for the vomiting but she didn’t mention it to Jarrod. He was in no condition to hear her.

“William!” she called. “William!”

William appeared in the doorway.

“Help me with Jarrod,” she said trying to hold him as he vomited.

“Do you need me to get the doctor?” he asked.

“No,” she answered. “I think it’s the new medicine they started him on. It’ll probably stop once it gets into his system.”

“Let me get a pan,” he said leaving the room.

Jarrod continued to vomit. He looked up at her with a very pale face. She kept wiping his mouth with a cloth that William had brought along with a small bucket.

“Easy Jarrod,” Rachel told him. “It’ll stop.”

“Wire mother,” Jarrod said in between vomiting. “She can help.”

“William will take care of that as soon as we have you settled,” she replied continuing to hold his head in her arms. “Jarrod, just rest.”

“I’m trying,” he told her but he wouldn’t stop.

After an hour of vomiting, Jarrod finally stopped. It was well past midnight and he was completely exhausted. Rachel cleaned him up and with the help of William, they took him to his room. He laid down on the bed, passing out. Rachel just removed his boots and covered him up. She didn’t see any point to waking him up to change his clothes. Then out in the hall, she turned to William.

“Go send that telegram now,” she said. “I know it’s late but he’ll feel better if his mother is here. It’s going to rough for the next month. And I can use the help.”

“Yes ma’am,” he replied leaving.

Rachel walked down the hall to Charles’ room. She opened the door, walking inside. He was asleep with his arms uncovered. She covered them up along with kissing him goodnight. Then she went to Maureen’s room. She kissed her little girl goodnight and then went back to their room. Jarrod was sound asleep. He hadn’t stirred since they had put him to bed. Rachel undressed, slipping into her nightclothes and climbed in bed next to Jarrod. She kissed him goodnight and laid her head down beside of his. She prayed that he would be all right.

Chapter Eleven

The next morning at the Barkley Ranch the telegram was delivered.

“Ned,” Victoria said as the telegraph operator stood at the door, “you’re out early.”

“I got this telegram about one this morning,” he replied. “It sounded important.”

He handed her the paper. She took it closing the door before reading it. When she turned to walk into the parlor, Nick and Heath were coming out of the dining room.

“Mother,” Nick asked, “who was that at this hour?”

“Ned,” she answered. “He brought me a telegram.”

“Who’s it from?” Nick asked.

“I don’t know,” she answered. “I haven’t read it yet.”

Sitting down in her favorite chair in the living room, she opened the paper reading it. She looked up at both her sons.

“I have to go to San Francisco immediately,” she said.

“Is it Jarrod?” Nick asked.

“Yes,” she answered. “He’s on some new medicine and it has made him very sick.”

“What new medicine?” Heath asked.

“I have no idea at this moment,” she answered. “I’ll pack.”

She hurried upstairs. Nick and Heath stood looking at each other.

“What’s going on?” Nick asked.

“I don’t know,” Heath answered.

“Best we see,” Nick said.

“What are you talking about?” Heath asked.

“I mean let’s go pack,” Nick said. “I want to know what’s up with Jarrod.”

“You go and I’ll stay here,” Heath replied. “Someone has to keep an eye on the ranch.”

“All right,” Nick told him. “Thanks Heath.”

“You’re much closer to Jarrod,” Heath said.

“You’re his brother too,” Nick replied. “So I’ll wire you when I find out what’s going on.”

“Fine,” Heath told him.

Nick rushed upstairs meeting his mother in the hallway.

“I’m going with you mother,” he said. “Let me pack.”

“You don’t need to,” she replied.

“I know I don’t have to but I want to,” he told her. “I’m worried about Jarrod.”

“Frankly,” she said, “so am I.”

After they packed and said goodbye to Heath, they headed for Stockton to catch the noon train for San Francisco. The entire trip Nick was quiet, which was very odd for him. Victoria knew that he was very worried about Jarrod and she was too. What new kind of medicine did they have him on that would make him sick? And why would he be on new medicine?

Chapter Twelve

Jarrod woke up late. He was extremely weak and sore. Rachel was sitting beside the bed when he opened his eyes. He looked at her.

“Boy that was a rough night,” he said trying to sit up and then deciding not to. “I don’t want to go through that again.”

“You may have to,” she replied. “You have to take that liquid four times a day. You’re due to take it now.”

“Please,” he begged. “I can’t.”

“You have to allow it to build up in your system,” she said. “I’m sure it won’t make you sick.”

He reluctantly agreed. She held the spoon with the dark liquid on it to Jarrod. He swallowed it and it burned all the way down. He almost gagged.

“I don’t know,” he said slightly out of breath. “This stuff takes terrible.”

“You don’t have to take anymore until lunch,” she replied. “Can I get you something to eat?”

“Yes,” he told her. “How about some toast?”

“Fine,” she said, standing up. “I’ll be back in a few minutes.”

While Rachel was gone, Jarrod rose and almost fell. He was so weak. He managed to change his clothes. When Rachel returned with his food, he was sitting up in the chair.

“How do you feel?” she asked setting the tray down in front of him.

“I’m very weak but I’ll be all right,” he answered eating the toast.

“I sent a wire to your mother,” she said. “She should be here before too long.”

“Thanks,” he replied. “I don’t have anything against you being my nurse but...”

“You trust her more,” Rachel finished.

“It’s not trust,” he told her. “It’s that she is used to me and the things I get sick from.”

“I understand,” she said smiling.

Two hours later, Jarrod was sick again. He vomited all over his clean clothes. Rachel was at his side.

“Rachel,” he said but it was only a gasp, “get doctor. Too sick.”

“William!” she called. “William!”

William appeared in the doorway.

“Go get Dr. Patrick now,” she said. “Jarrod’s sick again.”

“Yes Ms. Rachel,” he replied heading out.

Rachel tried to comfort Jarrod but he was miserable. He just couldn’t stop. He was even paler than he had been the night before. Rachel was very worried. With William’s help, they got Jarrod on the bed.

Chapter Thirteen

Dr. Patrick walked in a half-hour later. He went to the bed where Jarrod was. Looking down at his patient, he then looked over at Rachel.

“He’s very sick,” she said. “He can’t stop vomiting.”

“When did it start?” he asked.

“Last night after he took a dose of the medicine,” she answered.

“And again this morning after the medicine?” he asked.

“Yes,” she answered.

The doctor nodded, examining Jarrod. When he looked up, he had another bottle of liquid in his hand. He poured some into a spoon.

“Open your mouth Jarrod,” he said.

“What’s that?” Jarrod asked.

“It’ll help you stop vomiting,” he answered.

He put the medicine in Jarrod’s mouth and he quieted. The vomiting stopped.

“You were right,” the doctor said. “It was a reaction to the medication. So I want you to give him a spoonful of this medicine thirty minutes after the other. It will keep down the vomiting.”

“That’s wonderful,” she replied still holding Jarrod’s head in her lap. “Will he be all right?”

“Certainly,” he told her. “He’ll need to stay in bed today because he’s so weak but by tomorrow, he should be back to normal.”

“All right,” she said finally smiling.

She laid Jarrod’s head on the pillow. He had fallen asleep. William changed Jarrod’s messy clothes while Rachel walked the doctor out.

“Don’t worry,” he said. “Some people are naturally sensitive to certain medication. He’ll be fine in a day or two.”

“Do you really think the medicine will help him?” she asked.

“I believe so,” he answered. “We’ll know more in a month. If you need me, just let me know.”

“Thank you and I will,” she said.

She went back upstairs to their room. Jarrod was now clean and he was resting comfortably. Rachel ran a hand through his hair. Then she heard someone at the door. Rising from the bed, she went to the top of the stairs as William opened the door. Nick and Victoria stood there.

“I’m glad you came,” she said walking down the stairs. “Jarrod’s been pretty sick but he’s resting comfortably now.”

“What happened?” Victoria asked as they walked into the house.

Rachel explained everything that had transpired the day before. Victoria nodded when she was finished.

“So he’s sure this medicine will help?” she asked.

“Yes,” Rachel answered. “He said we’ll know for sure in another month.”

“I’m staying,” she said. “You need the help and you could use some rest yourself.”

“I’m all right,” Rachel replied.

“You’re pregnant and you don’t want to do anything to hurt the child,” she told Rachel. “Nick can help too.”

“Doing what?” he asked.

“Taking walks with Jarrod,” she answered. “Helping when he is sick. If you want Jarrod to get well, this is the way it has to be.”

“All right,” he said.

Chapter Fourteen

For the next month, Jarrod did excellent with the medicine. He was so relieved not to be vomiting after every meal. Victoria and Nick stayed until Jarrod saw Dr. Patrick.

“Jarrod,” the doctor said after examining him, “the medicine is doing its job. Your tissue is getting stronger. I want you to keep taking it for three more months. If you don’t have any problems, we’ll see about waiting six months.”

“Thanks doc,” he replied. “When can I go back to work?”

“Is tomorrow all right?” the doctor asked. “Although, I want you to take it easy and not get yourself involved in anything that is detremental to your health.”

“I’ll be careful doc,” he answered. “I have a mother and a wife who won’t let me get too tired or work too much or too long believe me.”

“I’m glad you have them,” the doctor said. “You’re a lucky man.”

“I know I am,” he replied. “I have a wonderful wife and two beautiful children. We’re also going to have another baby in about six months.”

“That’s wonderful,” the doctor told him. “I’m very happy for you. Now, you just remember that if you have any problems you can come to me at any time day or night.”

“I’ll remember,” Jarrod said smiling.

As he walked out of the examination room, he felt like he was walking on cloud nine. He was smiling broadly as he met his wife and mother.

“How did it go?” Rachel asked.

“I’m fine,” he answered. “He said that the tissue was getting stronger and that the medicine was indeed working. I don’t have to go back for three months.”

“Oh Jarrod,” she said hugging him. “I’m so happy. What about work?”

“I can go back to work as long as I take care of myself,” he replied.

“You will take care of yourself,” she told him.

“I have you to make sure,” he said smiling.

“Jarrod,” Victoria replied also smiling, “I’m so glad you’re on your way.”

“Thanks mother,” he told her putting his arm around her. “Are you going home or staying?”

“I think I’ll go back to the ranch,” she said. “Nick needs to get back to help Heath. I want you and Rachel to come stay after the baby is born.”

“We’ll do that,” he replied. “I promise.”

Victoria and Nick left on the afternoon train. Jarrod and Rachel went home after seeing them off. Jarrod was a new man. He went back to smothering his wife. She didn’t mind though. She loved the attention.

Chapter Fifteen

After going back to work for three months and taking good care of himself, Jarrod went to see Dr. Patrick. He was very impressed with the progress that Jarrod had made.

“Everything is looking good,” the doctor said after the examination. “You’re almost as good as new.”

“Will it last?” Jarrod asked. “I mean will there be any more problems?”

“I can’t answer that now,” the doctor answered. “Let’s just take it day by day and see what happens.”

“All right,” Jarrod said smiling.

“Why don’t you take a vacation and go home?” the doctor asked. “It would do all of you good.”

“I was planning on it after the baby is born,” Jarrod answered.

“I personally think you should go now,” the doctor said. “It’s only three months until the birth of the baby.”

“All right,” Jarrod replied. “I’ll talk to Rachel.”

“Good,” the doctor told him. “I want to see you again in six months.”

“Yes sir,” Jarrod said as he walked out the door.

Standing there, he breathed deeply. For the first time in two years he felt so happy. He had a beautiful wife, two wonderful children and his life was back. What more could he ask for? He walked home, enjoying himself.

Rachel raced out the door when she saw him approaching.

“Well?” she asked. “How did it go?”

“I’m fine,” he answered, a large smile appearing on his face. “I don’t have to see him again for six months.”

She hugged and kissed him passionately. Charles looked up and stuck up his nose.

“Me hate kissing,” he said.

Jarrod and Rachel both laughed. Jarrod reached over picking his son up.

“When you get older, you won’t say that,” he said. “You’ll like girls.”

“Me like sissy,” Charles replied. “Me like mama.”

“You’re just acting like a boy,” he told his son.

The family went inside.

“We’re going to the ranch until after the baby is born,” Jarrod said. “Pack your bags. We leave tomorrow.”

“Oh boy!” Charles yelled.

Chapter Sixteen

The next day, they arrived at the ranch. Victoria was so happy to see them.

“How was your trip?” she asked as they walked into the house.

“Tiring,” Rachel answered.

“Why don’t you go upstairs and rest?” she asked.

“That’s a good idea,” Rachel answered.

The family headed upstairs. Rachel laid down on the bed. She was completely exhausted.

“I will be so glad when this baby arrives,” she said. “I feel like I’m carrying two sacks of grain around.”

“I’ll help you all I can,” he replied sitting down on the bed beside of her. “I promise.”

“I know that,” she told him. “I couldn’t have asked for a better man to be married to. You are a perfect gentleman.”

“Really,” he said. “I thought I was a bit of a boob especially before Maureen was born.”

“Jarrod,” she replied sitting up, “you were never a boob. You had a lot on your mind and the heart attack.”

“I think back to how much I looked forward to having Charles before he was born,” he said. “Then I remember how I acted toward you and him. I’m so sorry.”

“You have nothing to apologize for,” she replied hugging him. “You are the best father and the children know that.”

“Papa,” Charles asked running into the room, “can me go see Uncle Nick and Uncle Heth?”

“Yes,” he answered. “Stay out of their way.”

“Yes sir,” Charles said running out the door.

“He really loves Nick and Heath,” he replied watching his son leave. “I think the ranch will be good for him.”

“He has two of the best teachers,” she told him. “Your brothers are real cowboys and he looks up to them.”

“Yes,” he said. “But I wish he would ask me to do something with once in a while.”

“He will,” she replied.

Charles found Nick and Heath in the barn.

“Come here boy,” Nick said as Charles ran to him. “I believe you’ve grown.”

“Let’s see,” Heath replied also looking at his nephew. “Yep.”

“Me ride,” he told them.

“Your pony is right over there,” Nick said pointing to the end stall.

Charles raced over to it. He backed Heth out of the stall. Then he picked up his saddle. Nick had to help him because the saddle was almost as big as he was. Finally, he was finished and climbed up on Heth’s back.

“Me ride,” he said.

“Don’t go too far,” Nick replied as the boy raced out of the barn. “And slow down!”

“Nick,” Heath told him, “as Jarrod would say, he’s acting just like you.”

“Very funny Heath,” Nick said. “I wasn’t that wide open.”

Charles rode down to one of fishing holes on the ranch. He loved being back. He climbed down from Heth’s back, sitting down on the ground. He just looked at all the beauty.

“Me bet papa think me hate him,” he said to Heth. “Me not ask papa to ride. Me go now.”

He mounted and rode back to the barn.

Chapter Seventeen

Charles jumped from his horse, racing into the house. He ran all the way upstairs to his parents’ room.

“Papa,” he said, “ride.”

“I thought you were going to go for a ride,” Jarrod replied looking at his son.

“Me want you ride,” he told him.

“All right,” Jarrod said rising from the bed. “I’ll be back in a little while.”

“Take your time,” she replied smiling.

“Come on,” Jarrod told his son.

The two of them walked downstairs together.

“Me sorry papa,” he said looking up. Me not think about you.”

“You have nothing to be sorry about,” Jarrod replied. “You love this ranch and I know that.”

“Me know you sick,” he told his father. “Me want you feel better.”

“I am feeling better,” Jarrod said. “You don’t have to worry.”

“Me glad,” he replied pulling Jarrod by the hand. “Hurry.”

“I have to saddle my horse,” Jarrod told him.

“Me wait,” he said.

When Jarrod walked into the barn, Nick and Heath looked over.

“I thought you went for a ride,” Nick said looking at Charles.

“Me did,” he replied. “Me want papa ride.”

“He came upstairs wanting me to go for a ride with him,” Jarrod told them.

“He loves the ranch,” Heath said smiling.

“Oh and by the way,” Nick replied, “before I forget it. Heath and I want you to draw up a paper or will or whatever that will leave the ranch to Charles.”

“Are you serious Nick?” Jarrod asked.

“Yes,” Heath answered. “We discussed it and want to leave it to him. We know he’ll take care of it.”

“Son,” Jarrod asked squatting down in front of his son, “this ranch is going to be yours someday.”

“Mine,” he answered stunned.

“Will you take care of it?” Jarrod asked.

“Yes papa,” he answered. “Me promise.”

“Good boy,” Jarrod said. “I’ll draw up the papers.”

“Thanks Jarrod,” Nick replied.

Jarrod saddled his horse and the two of them went riding. It had been so long since Jarrod had taken a ride on the Barkley Ranch. He had forgotten just how beautiful and relaxing it was. They finally rode back three hours later.

“We were about to send a search party out to find you two,” Nick said. “What happened? You get lost?”

“Nope,” Jarrod replied. “Just enjoying the beauty of the ranch.”

That night Jarrod wrote up a paper stating that on the death of Nick and Heath or if they felt that they could no longer take care of the ranch, it would go to Charles Matthew Barkley.

Chapter Eighteen

Rachel went into labor three months later. It was a very trying time for her. She was having a very rough delivery and Jarrod was worried.

“What’s taking so long?” he asked as he waited downstairs. “She should have had it by now.”

“Take it easy,” Nick answered. “You’re getting yourself worked up over nothing.”

“How would you know it’s nothing?” he asked anger in his voice. “That’s not your wife up there.”

“I didn’t mean it that way,” Nick said. “The doctor is with her and so is mother. And besides maybe you’ll get that boy you wanted.”

“Yeah,” he replied. “Sorry.”

“It’s all right,” Nick told him.

An hour later, Jarrod heard the cries. He started up the stairs when Victoria appeared at the top.

“It’s a boy,” she said.

“A boy,” Jarrod repeated. “Rachel?”

“Fine,” she replied. “They both are.”

Jarrod rushed up the stairs and into the room. Rachel smiled and opened the blanket to show him his newest son. Jarrod looked at the boy. He had brown hair and light blue eyes. Jarrod smiled.

“He’s beautiful,” he said. “Robert Thomas Barkley. I hope that he will think about taking up law.”

“He’s still much too young to worry about that,” Rachel commented.

“I know,” Jarrod said. “But it was just a thought.”

Actually, Jarrod was hoping that Robert would be a lawyer so he could have someone to show the ropes to. But he wasn’t going to push the boy. He was going to leave it up to Robert.

“Robert,” Victoria replied. “That was your father’s name.”

“Yes,” she told her. “We wanted to name him after his grandfathers. Even if he will never know either one.”

“He’ll know,” Victoria said. “We’ll make sure he knows.”

And so Jarrod and Rachel had their family. They went back to San Francisco where the children grew and learned.

THE END

But … stay tuned for sequels about each of the three children and the final installment The Next Generation.