Family Ties

Part 1

by Leona

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.

The New Year at the Barkleys came in quietly. Heath and Janine sat on their porch swing, bundled up in blankets and drinking hot chocolate going over the events of the past year. Janine laid her head on Heath’s shoulder as he put his arm around her shoulders, enjoying the feel of her body against his. She never failed to amaze him with her love for him and their family. They were so happy and at ease with each other. They enjoyed life together, sharing their days with mutual understanding and warmth.

It had been an eventful year, what with the arrival of their baby, David and the turmoil and pain of Kelly Humphries. They sorrowed over her stubbornness and absolute hatred of Janine. Steve Barlow, her former boyfriend, after realizing that the baby was his, tried to take responsibility for it. Kelly had turned inward after the hearing, refusing to have anything to do with Steve, planning on having the baby on her own. Steve, frustrated, turned to drinking, and gambling, not knowing what else to do. He was only seventeen but he felt hopelessly confused.

They sat on the swing thinking of all this as the night grew colder, silently acknowledging the coldness. They decided to go into the house. They went to bed as it was quite late, but as they laid there, waiting for the sleep that was to take them for the night, they found it was long in coming. Janine turned on her side and kissed Heath’s cheek in the darkness. “I love ya” she whispered. He in turn found her lips and kissed her deeply, sighing all the while. “What’s wrong, honey?” She waited in the darkness for his quiet drawl to answer her question.

“Nothing” he replied, kissing her softly.

“Don’t give me that Heath Barkley. There’s something on your mind, tell me.” she whispered to him firmly. Instead of answering, he drew her closer, kissing and caressing her. “ummmm….Heath? This isn’t the answer I was expectin'." She giggled.

“It’s the only one ya gonna get for tonight.” He admonished her and kissed her again. She giggled as his hands caressed a particular ticklish spot. “I love ya, my pretty” Their passions heating up and cooling down, falling asleep when they were quiet.

The morning was warm and bright for a winter morning. They went about their day, doing their chores. Heath didn’t go on the main ranch much as there wasn’t a whole lot of work to do. They had decided that he would break and train the horses on their own property during the winter and in the summer keep them over on the main ranch.

David was starting to crawl around a little faster now, and pulling himself up on the furniture. It was all Janine could do some days to keep him occupied and not hurt himself. He followed her all over the house, getting into the cupboards and making a lot of noise. Leah was going to be three in April and was a big help to her parents. She tried to keep David occupied while her parents were doing their chores but sometimes she wasn’t quite successful. “Davey, stay out Mama’s way! She cookin’!” admonished Leah. She pulled on his arm making him scream loudly.

“Leah, be nice to your brother!” sighed Janine. She was putting supper in the oven and almost tripped over David who was crawling around. “Gee whiz you guys. I thought you were playing in the living room.” She put the roast on the counter, picked up David and took him out to the living room. “Here Leah, give him his bottle until I put the roast in the oven.”

“K mama” Leah sat on the floor with David and gave him the bottle. David threw it on the floor and crawled away. “Mama!” screamed Leah, “He won’t stay with me!” she wailed.

Janine came out wiping her hands on her apron and picked up David. “you little turkey. Come to Mama. Leah can you hand me his bottle?” Leah did as she was told and sat beside Janine.

“Mama mad?” she looked up at her mother with her blue eyes filled with regret.

“No Honey. I’m not mad. I just ask ya to do too much. I’m sorry. Come sit beside me.” Leah obliged and Janine put her arm around her. They sat like that while Janine fed David and he fell asleep in her arms.

Heath came in and observed his family, smiling his lopsided smile. “I like coming home to this.” He strolled over to them giving them all a kiss. Leah stretched out her arms for her father to pick her up. He picked her up over her head. Janine lay David down in the playpen and check on supper.

She poured Heath a coffee and sat beside him, laying her head on his shoulder. She tired a lot lately, and didn’t feel well some mornings. “Tired, my pretty?” he asked of her concerned. She nodded and yawned. “Well ya just rest. Leah and I can set the table for ya.”

“Thanks hon. I’d appreciate it.” She checked the roast in the oven, peeled the potatoes and finished the rest of the supper. She sat on the sofa, yawning, and almost falling asleep. She couldn’t understand why she tired so easily. The only time she tired was when she was…..nah! Couldn’t be, she thought to herself. She smiled to herself. I guess I need to go to town soon.

Heath and Leah set the table and finished cooking supper. They did it so quietly that Janine did fall asleep. He gently woke Janine up with soft kisses. She moaned and put her arms around his neck. “Wake up, my pretty. Supper is served!” He said quietly to her. She opened her emerald eyes and smiled. Getting up slowly, she found herself swaying from sleeping so heavy for such a short period of time.

They ate supper in quietness save for Leah chattering about her little brother and what all she did during the day. After supper, they cleared off the table and did the dishes. David was awake and wanting out of his playpen. Janine sighed, and went to get him but Heath stopped her with a kiss. “I’ll get him Janey. Get his bottle and then ya rest. Ya look awful tired.”

“Gee whiz Heath! You’re full of compliments today, aren’t ya?” He smiled, melting her heart. She smiled at him as she handed him David’s bottle. Janine kissed them both and lay on the sofa, watching Leah as she played with her toys. Soon her eyes grew heavy and she fell asleep. Heath quietly put the children to bed and woke his spouse up a little later. “Mmmmm….Heath. I’m awake now.” She told him as he rained kisses down her throat. He lay beside her on the small sofa and held her.

“Are ya not feelin’ well, Janey?” he asked as he stared into her emerald eyes.

“I feel fine,” she lied, hoping he wouldn’t catch her. He gave her a sideways look but didn’t say anything. She kissed him and stood up, “Let’s go sit on the swing. I need some fresh air.” They each grabbed a drink and went outside. They took their usual position on the swing, his arm around her shoulders and her head on his shoulder. They sat there in companionable silence sipping their drinks.

“Have you seen Steve lately, Heath?” Janine took another drink, thinking about the orphans they had taken in last summer. For some reason they were still uppermost in their thoughts. Heath was still living his supposed allegation down. There was still talk in town, whispers, finger pointing and an occasional barb to his face. He walked away from them usually. Every once in a while someone would not leave him alone, so he would have to defend himself. It was like his childhood all over again and he felt ashamed.

“No I haven’t. I hear tell he’s been at the saloon almost everyday. Kelly won’t let him have anything to do with the baby.” He wanted to put this out of his mind, but he continued. “that baby is due in a few months. She is living on her own, working, at least, and they say that she is not taking care of herself at all. I wish….” Janine sat up and looked at him, intently, not knowing what he was going to say. She watched as his blue eyes mirrored all the contrasting emotions that he struggled to control. “I wish that she hadn’t done this to us. That hearing did nothing but harm my reputation that I fought hard to retain.”

Janine thought about what he said. He had to fight his entire life to be somebody, not just another fatherless child. He did not like the stigma of that and she knew that he felt responsible for Kelly’s behaviour. Nothing Janine said could convince him otherwise. “Heath, I know how you must be feeling. But remember, she brought this on herself. She made herself miserable, not you or anybody else. We have all lived hard lives and its how we choose to live our lives to make us or do us in. She chose the wrong path, and hopefully she will realize we were only trying to help her. She got herself into trouble and she has to live with that mistake. Steve, well he is borrowing trouble, as well. I wish we could help him somehow.”

Heath sighed and drew his wife closer. “I reckon we could try to help him somehow, my pretty. How bout we go in now?” She lifted up her head and kissed him passionately.

“I reckon we oughta,” she said, copying his drawl. He grinned and touched her nose with his long slender finger. Then he cupped her chin and lifted her face to his, kissing her softly, leaving her feeling tingly. They stood on the porch, holding each other, till Janine said softly, “let’s go in. Its getting a mite chilly.” Walking into the house hand and hand, they made sure the place was secure, and went upstairs to bed.

The next week passed quickly, spending a lot of time over at the mansion, enjoying the company of the family. Jarrod and Jenny were making preparations for the arrival of their baby, due in a couple of months. Jenny was large with child and the couple were elated. They walked around with large smiles. They had decided to come back to the ranch until the baby was born. Jarrod wanted the baby born in the hospital, but Jenny wanted it born in the same house as her husband. Jarrod reluctantly relented and decided to come home. He took up his practice in his old office and went back to San Francisco only occasionally.

Nick and Chelsea were finalizing their plans for the wedding next month. Janine, Jenny and Audra helped plan the wedding, making suggestions that Nick or Chelsea vehemently shook or nodded their heads to. The wedding ceremony was going to be a small one, like his brothers, with only close friends and family. They were planning on a big lavish dinner, inviting all the hands and everyone that meant something to them. Chelsea’s parents insisted on having all of her relatives there. It almost instilled an argument, but Nick somehow managed to get his future in law convinced that they wanted a small wedding.

They talked of other things. They had tea and cookies that Silas had prepared, deciding to gossip while the men were playing pool and talked about ranch business. There was a lot of giggling going on between the women. The men glanced over at them but didn’t say anything. Heath watched his wife as she held David and laughed. Leah sat beside her, taking in all of the scene enjoying being with her mother and aunts. Janine looked up and caught him watching her. He winked and smiled at her, making her blush. Leah got up and walked over to her father, asking to play. Heath let her take one shot, helping her hold the cue and showing her how to direct the ball to the pocket. We’ll have a future pool shark in our family, he thought with a smile.

Kelly was working full time at the local saloon, watching Steve drink himself into oblivion, not caring that she was hurting him. Night after night, she watched, serving Steve his drinks, and watching him as he gambled away his money. She was just a serving girl. Being with child no one wanted to take her upstairs which suited her just fine. She hated the thought of those drunken men touching her that way. There was only one man she wanted to touch her and that was Heath Barkley. That handsome cowboy with the expressive blue eyes. The ones that seemed to beckon her each time she saw him with that loud brother of his. Steve didn’t even come close to him, he wanted her, but she did not want him.

Kelly had left the orphanage soon after the hearing. The padre thought it was in the best interest of the orphanage if both Kelly and Steve left. Kelly was ecstatic. She had been wanting to leave for sometime, but something had always made her stay.

Steve always found work, working on the ranches around the valley and enjoyed the work very much. He wanted to take responsibility for the baby but Kelly refused to talk to him. She avoided him as much as possible but watched him intently whenever he came to the saloon. He went to the saloon not to drink and gamble, but to see her. He wanted to be able to watch out for her and take care of her. He felt responsible for the situation she now found herself in.

The dark haired man took another drink of his beer as he observed the other orphan as she served drinks. He looked around the room and saw that there were all kinds of men playing, drinking, laughing, and all had one thing in common. They all wanted to forget about work and just have a good time. He started to go over to the blonde teen when one of the saloon visitors grabbed her arm. “Ya wanna go upstairs, missy?” slobbered the unkempt drunk.

“Can’t you see I’m busy?” she retorted and withdrew her arm angrily from his grasp. This angered him and he grabbed her again with a little bit more force.

“I said do ya wanna come upstairs with me?” Steve got up from his chair and strolled over to where the couple were arguing. He threw back his fist and punched the drunk squarely on the jaw. He fell back, still hanging on to Kelly, pulling her on top of him. She shook him off and stood up. She glared at Steve then turned her back on him. The man got up and started to throw a punch at the young man when another man stopped him

“I wouldn’t do that if I were ya.” stated the blond cowboy coolly. He stood in front of the man, hands at his side, waiting for him to make a move towards Steve. Heath had walked in to the saloon to see Steve take a swing at the man. The man looked at the cowboy who spoke to him only to find it was Heath Barkley. A man to fear when riled up. “Apologize to the boy” The drunken ranch hand licked his lips, and apologized to Steve.

“I think you owe the lady an apology, Seth” Steve gave him a dangerous glare and he decided it was best to apologize to Kelly too. He did not want to be on the wrong side of this Barkley man. Seth ran his hand through his sparse dark hair that was dirty and very unkempt. He apologized to Kelly and sat back down, sipping his beer.

Steve turned his murderous brown eyes towards Heath. “I can handle my own problems, Mr. Barkley. I’ll thank you kindly to mind your own business.” With that he went back to his own chair and picked up his drink. He decided to go play some poker and leave the whole incident behind.

Heath sat down at the same table intent on playing some poker. He hadn’t done that in some time. His family kept him busy but tonight Janine told him he should go with Nick for a night out. Heath gave her a funny look but she insisted when Nick showed up ready to go out for a night out. Chelsea was in San Francisco, doing some last minute shopping for the wedding. Nick sat down at the same table wanting to win some of his brother’s money.

Steve started in on Heath again about budding into his problems. Heath sat at the table contemplating his cards, ignoring the boy. Heath and Nick ordered a pitcher of beer and slowly drank it down. “Mr. Barkley, I am talking to you!” Steve had a lot of beer by this time and was getting quite tipsy.

Both brothers looked up from their cards, asking for cards and placing their bets. Heath gaped at the young man and asked quietly, “Are you playing or looking for a fight Mr. Barlow?” Steve suddenly realized what he was doing and played cards. He kept his eyes on Kelly but didn’t speak another word.

When it was time for the brothers to leave, they looked over to Steve. He was passed out at the table. Heath and Nick looked to each other, picked up the boy and bought him a room for the night. No need for him to go home, wherever it was. Kelly watched as the cowboys hauled Steve up to the room. Her eyes narrowed when they came back down the stairs, hating the fact that he had never paid attention to her. She went out of her way to be nice to him but he never cast an eye her way. She would think of a way to get her to notice him. She had to have him all to herself.

Janine woke up with her husband sleeping quietly beside her. She got up, head swirling a little, and checked on a chortling David. She smiled as he pulled himself up to a standing position, arms up wanting out of his bed. She picked him up, taking him downstairs to give him a bottle and make coffee. She lit a fire in the cook stove, put the water and coffee in the pot and set it on the stove. She checked on David and was surprised that Heath was up. He smiled at her and stretched his large arms to her to give her a hug. She went into his arms, lifting her face for a kiss. “G’mornin’ my pretty.”

“G’mornin’, Heath. I think the coffee should be ready. I’ll get ya a cup” She wriggled out of his powerful arms and stumbled a little. He grabbed her before she fell. He looked into her emerald eyes with concern. “I’m fine Heath. I just lost my balance, is all.” He listened to her explanation, but didn’t say anything. Janine went into the kitchen, getting two cups, filling them with the steaming hot coffee and handed them to Heath.

He watched her intently, sipping his coffee, and wondering what was wrong with her. Why she hadn’t felt like this since… He thought as his face brightened and then saddened. ….we lost little Heath. Could it be? He wondered but didn’t say anything. Leah still wasn’t awake so Heath put his cup down took Janine by the hand and led her outside to watch the sunrise. They needed this in the morning to gather their thoughts and to have their time for themselves.

“Heath?” She squeezed his hand lovingly. He heard the wistful tone in her voice. He pulled her into his loving embrace and hugged her to him.

“Yes, my pretty?” He couldn’t get enough of her this morning. The lavender scent in her hair was making him overcome with emotion. He fingered her hair and she drew him closer. He was making it very difficult for her to say anything to him. His touches driving her wild with desire.

“I think I know why I haven’t been feeling well.” She told him in between the kisses that made her breathless. He stopped kissing her and pushed her gently away so he could look her in the eyes.

“Why?” he asked her, losing himself in those emerald pools. How he loved her. If anything was to happen to her, he would be totally lost. They were like one person, always touching, seeking each other out in a crowded room. After three years of marriage, they were still very much like newlyweds.

“Cuz Heath.” she said, kissing him passionately, causing him to groan. “I have only felt this way twice before once with Leah and once with Little Heath.” He stopped and looked at her.

“Are ya sure?” He was concerned, he remembered what the doctor in New York had told them. She had told them that any pregnancy would be difficult due to internal damage from the beatings her former had inflicted on her. Her back injury when they were first married, hindered her as well. She was recovered from that but occasionally, she would have trouble walking, but that was far and few between now. Almost like a bad dream. She had also told them that any future pregnancy would either result in miscarriage or baby born early if she took it very easy. There was also a risk of death during childbirth. He shuddered inwardly at the thought.

“No I’m not sure Honey. But the symptoms are all the same.” She looked deep into his sky blue eyes, seeing the depth of feeling he had for her. “I’m scared too Heath. After all this time….”

“G’mornin’ Mama. G’mornin’ Papa” Leah came out rubbing the sleep from her eyes. Heath picked up his daughter and gave her a hug.

“G’mornin’ Lil One. Did ya sleep well?” She yawned and nodded at the same time.

“Hungy Papa” Heath put her down and she ran over to her mother and gave her a hug. “Wove you Mama.” Janine hugged her snugly and put her down.

“Love you Leah. How bout you go and check on David? Mama and Papa will be in a minute.” She nodded and yawned again, and went into the house.

“We’ll talk about this later, Janey. I love ya” He pulled her to him again and hugged her tight. He didn’t want to let go, fearing for this baby and the danger to his wife. He lost himself in her scent and sighed. She hugged him back just as fiercely and pulled away.

“Ok Heath. I love ya too. Let’s go in and get some breakfast. I reckon we’ve got a couple of hungy kids.” She mocked her daughter. He grinned at her and touched her nose with his long, slender finger. She took his hand and together they entered the house, Heath went to make breakfast and Janine went to David who was crying to get out and wander around. So started their day.

Kelly wasn’t having a good day. Her back hurt, her legs hurt and she was tired. She hated being fat. Most of all, she hated Janine Barkley. Her hatred for Heath’s wife grew every day and there was no reason for it. If it wasn’t for her, she wouldn’t be in this predicament she reasoned to herself. She wouldn’t be having this baby and she would have that cowboy all to herself. Kelly shook the cobwebs out of her blonde head and got ready for work.

She hated the saloon but it was easy money and money was what she needed. She was saving enough money to get out of Stockton. Where, she didn’t care but she had to leave the town. First, though, she had to take care of a little matter. A little matter that had strawberry blonde hair and big emerald eyes that shone with love at her cowboy. Yep, just you wait, Mrs. Barkley. Your time is coming. She cackled evilly to herself and put on her uniform for work.

They went to the big house to help Chelsea sort out the wedding plans. Heath and Nick went out to round up the cattle and drive them out to the south pasture. The wedding was to be in just a few weeks and Chelsea was getting really nervous. She paced the floor, talked wildly and couldn’t make one decision. She agreed to almost everything the other ladies put forth. Janine remembered how nervous she was at her own wedding. “Chelsea! Why don’t ya sit down for a bit. You’re making me nervous with all that pacing around you are doing? Boy howdy, you’re as bad as Nick!”

Chelsea stared at Janine and burst out laughing. “Nick is right. You have been hanging around Heath too long. You even sound like him!” Jenny, Audra, Victoria and Chelsea’s mother, Francis, laughed politely at Janine’s expense. They were all thinking the same thought and Janine’s face turned red but laughed along with them.

Leah, came into the parlour to see what the laughter was about. “What funny. Mama?” David crawled along behind her, tugging at Leah’s dress.

“Nothin’ Lil One. Nothin’ at all!” She picked David up and sat him on her knee. Leah sat next to her while the ladies turned the conversation from the wedding to the upcoming birth. Janine listened with interest at the conversation and noted the happy expression on Jenny’s beautiful ethnic countenance. They had decided not to say anything about their upcoming birth until they talked to Dr. Merar.

They were laughing, gossiping and drinking their tea when the brothers came in from the range. “Papa!” yelled Leah, sprinting to Heath, throwing herself into his dirty arms. “Me miss you” she hugged him fiercely. She kissed his cheek saying, “ewwwww….Papa! Dirty!”

He grinned at her and set her down. “Yep, Lil One. Is Mama in there?” He asked, nodding towards the giggling women.

She nodded, “they giggle all day, Papa. Don’t know why!” He laughed and told her that he would clean up and be back in a bit. “K Papa.” Leah went back into the room where her mother was smiling and talking with her sisters-in-law. It was a wonderful day.

The next week passed by quickly. Nick and Chelsea spent a lot of time together, discussing plans, going on picnics, with the family, trying to get their minds adjusted to the fact that in one week they would be married. Heath and Nick spent a lot of time talking about everything when they were out on the range. “Heath?” asked Nick, a little hesitantly.

“Yeah, Nick?” Heath glanced at him out of the corner of his eye and saw that Nick sat rigidly on Coco, totally out of character for the cowboy.

“Were you this nervous when you got married?” Heath smiled widely at his brother’s question. Then he turned to Nick, seeing that his face was ashen, became serious.

“Yeah Nick. I was very nervous. Not because I was marrying the most beautiful, heartwarming woman in the world but because I thought I was going to make a mistake on the vows. Forget a line. Step on her toes. Miss her lips when I kissed her.” Nick grinned at his brother’s admission. That was how he was feeling. They had stopped the horses and dismounted. They were at a watering hole, so they sat down and talked a while.

“That’s exactly how I feel.” Nick admitted after a while. For Nick to admit anything that personal was a big step. He was the type of man who kept most personal feelings tucked inside unless it mattered for something. Then he reacted, without thinking but with a lot of emotion especially when it was about his family.

Heath grinned at his older brother. “Remember Nick. When she walks down that aisle wearin’ that beautiful dress and that smile, you’ll forget about how nervous you are. She’s gonna marry you, Brother Nick, for better and for worse.”

Nick grinned at the blond man sitting beside him. “Sometimes I think I’m not good enough for her. She is a good woman and I’ve sown a lot of wild oats. I’ve a temper. I know I do things before I think about ‘em.” Nick sat back thinking about all the fights, gambling and drinking he has done. “Yet she loves me.” He smiled. “She loves ME, Heath. What a nice feelin’.”

“You know Nick, I think this is the first time ya ever spoke to me about Chelsea.”

Nick threw some grass at Heath and stood up. He mounted Coco and waited for Heath to do the same. Yep, he thought, I am lucky to have such a wonderful woman in my life. Nick smiled at the thought of being married. Waking up every morning with her, his fiancée. Heath mounted up on Charger, and they both rode off, heading toward the house and their loved ones.

Heath and Janine went to town the next day later, leaving the children with Audra so they could have the day to themselves. Janine figured it was time they talked to Dr. Merar and didn’t want the children tagging along. They parked the buggy in front of the doctor’s office and walked in. His wife looked up from her paperwork, and smiled when she saw who it was. “Hello Mrs. Barkley, Mr. Barkley. Howard is with a patient but can I help you?”

“We just wanted to talk to Dr. Merar for a few minutes when he isn’t busy.” She smiled and told them to have a seat as he would be done in a few minutes. They sat down on one of the red plush chairs that adorned the small room. As they sat in those chairs, Heath twisted the white hat in his hands, while Janine sat and watched him. She smiled as she watched, grasping his hand and holding it tightly.

As a door opened from one of the examination rooms, they looked up and saw Kelly departing the room, with the kindly doctor behind her. Janine pursed her lips together but didn’t say anything, watching as she paid for her visit. Heath didn’t pay attention, the less he had to do with her, the better. Dr. Merar looked to the chairs and saw his favorite couple sitting there. He smiled and beckoned them to the examining room.

“How are you today? He greeted them warmly.

“Just fine, my wife isn’t feelin’ well and was wonderin’ if you could have a look at her.” Janine fidgeted in the chair she was sitting in. Howard patted the exam bed and she reluctantly agreed and hopped on.

“Heath, can you step outside while I examine Janine? I’ll call you in when I’m done.” Heath nodded and looked to his wife, she smiled shakily at him, her nervousness clearly showing. He opened the door and took a seat once again on the plush chairs, his hat in his hand, being twirled nervously. A little while later Dr. Merar beckoned Heath back into the room, where he immediately went to his wife grasping her hand.

“Well Heath, Janine. Congratulations are in order I believe.” The couple turned to each other and smiled a nervous smile. “But I do have to tell you. Its going to be a long ride. Janine you will have to rest a lot. That means bed. You can go to the wedding, but after that, I want you to stay in bed. The baby has a good chance of being born at full term, if you follow my instructions.” Tears welled up in Janine’s eyes as she thought of all that time in bed. Not being able to do anything. But she would do anything to be able to have another baby. “The baby is going to be born near the end of summer.”

“Thank you doctor! I promise to relax and not do so much work but to stay in bed all that time! I’m gonna go nuts!” Heath smiled and squeezed her petite hand.

“Remember Janine. No getting upset, no excitement of any kind.” He looked at Heath and stressed the word any. Heath nodded and thought that it was going to be a long six months but he would do anything just to keep his wife with him and the baby too.

Howard Merar walked them out of the examining room and out to the front door. Heath paid Mrs. Merar the money owed for the visit. The kindly elder lady took their money and wrote up a receipt. “I’ll be by in a couple of weeks to see how you are Janine. Oh tell Nick and his intended that we send best wishes for a long and prosperous marriage.” The couple nodded and exited the doctor’s office, still holding hands. Heath helped Janine into the buggy and they drove off to Stockman’s for their lunch meal.

The week passed quickly with the preparations going on with the wedding. Heath and Janine decided to wait and tell their news later after the wedding so as not to spoil the newlyweds’ big day. Chelsea and Nick were so nervous, that they were beginning to look sleep worn from lack of sleep. Heath and Jarrod took Nick out on the town Thursday night for his last hurrah as a married man. They played poker, drank beer, and generally had a good time. Kelly watched them as the brothers celebrated, serving them drinks, trying to get Heath’s attention to focus on her. This was her last day of work as she was large with child now but still needed the money to pay the rent.

Heath paid no attention to her, focusing on Nick and making sure he didn’t get into any trouble. Steve Barlow was watching and fuming as Kelly made a fool out of herself over the cowboy. Having partaken too much of the beer he was drinking, he wobbled his way over to Kelly. “Kelly, why don’t ya come home with me? I can take care of ya.”

Kelly glared at him venomously. “If I tole ya once, Steve, I tole ya a thousand times. I don’t love ya and I aint goin’ home with ya.” He shrank back into his chair and sipped on his beer. He watched her as she stopped to rub her aching back. She had been doing that a lot lately. Suddenly, she clasped her stomach and doubled over. Steve was out of his chair in a flash, rushing to her side. “The baby!” she gasped. “The baby is coming!”

Steve looked around in a panic, grabbed her arm and led her out the door and down to the doctor’s office. Dr. Merar just happened to be in his office looking after another patient when the couple walked in. Kelly moaned in pain, looking at the kindly doctor, and said worriedly, “the baby is coming! Its too early! The baby is coming!”

“All right Miss Humphries. Let’s get you in the room and have a look. Steve can you go upstairs and get my wife.” Steve nodded, glad he could be of some help. He found the backstairs and pounded on the door, waking Mrs. Merar and telling her that Kelly was having the baby. She dressed swiftly and followed Steve down the stairs, going into the examining room.

The brothers decided it was time they left the saloon and take Nick home. Nick was on a winning streak and didn’t want to leave, but the brothers insisted. He sighed and mentioned that they were worse than Chelsea. They had a good laugh, reminding him that he was to be married to her on Saturday. He smiled and said drunkenly, “Married. Wow. I can’t believe it, the best lookin’ Barkley man is gettin’ married!” Heath and Jarrod watched as their brother staggered over to Coco, and tried to mount his horse. They strolled, rather haphazardly themselves, over to help their brother. All three of them fell to the ground in a fit of laughter. Nick sobered and cursed as he tried to put his foot into the stirrup and raise himself up. Giving up, he decided to walk Coco at least part-ways home. Jarrod picked himself up off the ground, assisting Heath to his feet. They somehow managed to get themselves up onto their mounts and followed Nick home. Nick was singing loudly about being married to the most beautiful girl. The brothers journeyed home and fell asleep as soon as their heads hit the pillows.

In the afternoon hours of the next day, Kelly finally gave birth. She had a tough time and the baby was early but by the way he was crying, he was very healthy. Kelly was exhausted and had lost a lot of blood. The baby was big and took a lot of energy out of her. She was not doing well and Dr. Merar was worried. Her pallor was pale while her breathing was very shallow. He asked Steve to give her a transfusion which he gladly did, but she was not responding. The baby started crying, wanting to eat, so Mrs. Merar got a bottle and filled it with milk. She took the baby out of the room, feeding him. All of a sudden there was a scream from the room, making Nancy Merar jump. All was silent then another scream came and another. The silver haired lady could not keep the terror from rising within her. When all was silent once again, the door opened, she rose when she saw the look on her husband’s face. The blonde teen was gone and there was a baby to be taken care of. What was to become of him? She thought.

Steve followed behind the doctor and held his hands out to the baby. “I’ll take him, Mrs. Merar. I can look after him, I am sure.” She did not want to give the baby up. “I’m the father, and I want to take my baby home.”

“Go get some sleep Steve, first. Go home, wash up, and get some rest. We will look after him till then. Its okay. Go on.” Steve nodded and went home. Kelly was dead, and he had a baby to look after, whatever was he going to do?

After the boy left, husband and wife looked at each other, putting the baby boy back in the wooden bassinet they had for emergencies such as this. They went to work preparing the girl for the undertaker while Howard told his wife what happened. She was too young, the baby was too big and there was nothing he could do. She started to pass blood again and the pain was too great for her to bear. He did all he could to help her but it was too much for her. She gave up and died. Nancy automatically cleaned the girl up all the while observing her husband. Death always hit him hard and this one was no different. They would hold each other later and cry about it.

The news travelled fast about Kelly and the baby. When Heath and Janine had heard about it, they had mixed emotions. Glad that Kelly was out of their lives, but sad that it had to be this way. They felt sorry for the baby, but glad that Steve decided to take responsibility for it. Maybe it would help him grow up a little, they thought. They held each other that night and wept for the young life that was needlessly taken away. They would allow themselves this one night to feel sorry for this girl who had caused so much trouble. After that there would be no more guilt, no more hard feelings, it would be laid to rest in the recesses of their minds, only to be brought out every now and again.

Heath woke up on Saturday morning, knowing this was the day his brother was getting married. He rolled over to Janine and drew her into his arms. He kissed her lightly on the lips, eliciting a small groan from her. He smiled and pressed more kisses on her face. She turned over towards him and snuggled closer. He hugged her tightly and whispered, “I love you Janey.”

She opened an emerald eye, whispering, “Love you too Heath. Let me sleep, k?” He smiled at her and held her in his arms for a while longer, wishing he could do more then just hold her. No excitement, the doctor said. He sighed and closed his blue eyes, almost falling back to sleep. He shook his head and untangled himself from his wife. He got up quietly, checking on the children and going downstairs.

After breakfast, they did the morning chores and left to go to the mansion for the wedding. It was a beautiful day, the sun was shining high in the sky, the birds were singing and Leah was chattering a mile a minute. Heath and Janine smiled to each other as Leah chatted about the wedding. She was chosen to be flower girl and she was excited about it.

They arrived at the mansion and hurried upstairs to change into their good clothes. Nick could be heard complaining about not being able to find his tie, his boots, his hair wasn’t sitting right. “And what gives you two the right to laugh at me?” he roared at his smiling brothers.

“Nick calm down, brother! We know exactly what you’re feeling. Heath and I have both been there. Once you see your bride walking down the aisle towards you, you’ll forget all about being nervous!” Jarrod smiled at his middle brother and put his hand on his shoulder. “Believe me, this nervousness is all worth it. Isn’t it Heath?” Heath nodded in the affirmative.

Nick looked at his brothers and grinned, “Well now that the brotherly lecture is over, lets get this wedding on the road!” They got Nick ready in plenty of time for the wedding.

The bride was nervous as well but she was a lot quieter then her future husband. She had heard him complain and smiled to herself. He had a voice that could be heard all over the house when he wanted, and it was a voice she could tame. Though he was a gentle man , he was outspoken and she loved him dearly. She was looking forward to their honeymoon and all the secrets to be revealed during their time alone together.

When Chelsea walked down the aisle on her father’s arm, she saw Nick gaping at her. “She is the most beautiful woman in the world” the groom thought to himself as he took her hand and faced the minister. They said their vows then all too soon the ceremony was over. The newlyweds kissed each other facing the crowd. Nick looked to his brothers who had wide grins on their faces. The last Barkley heir married and the matriarch couldn’t be prouder.

The very happy couple danced the night away. The brothers got to dance with their new sister-in-law and Nick got to dance with his sisters-in-law. He and Janine talked quietly while they danced. “Congratulations big brother, “ she said sincerely, “I hope you’ll be as happy as Heath and me.” Nick grinned and drew her closer. “I love ya Nicky. I still am gonna beat you playin’ pool. Just cause you’re married, doesn’t mean I’m gonna let ya win.”

“Yeah right Neen. Like ya would anyway. I love ya too little sister.” She held on tightly while Nick swung her around the room. “Thanks for the dance, Neen.” He kissed her cheek, chastely, and looked around for his bride. The dark haired woman was talking to his older brother, “There she is” he stated and strolled off to meet her.

Soon, it was time for them to leave. The guests formed two lines on either side of the door. They threw rice at the couple and wished them good luck. The couple shouted their thanks as they got into their carriage and were whisked off to the hotel for their wedding night. Jarrod paid for the hotel room and the carriage as part of his wedding gift to them. Nick and Chelsea were going to the lodge to spend a week there. It was too be a wonderful honeymoon they both thought.

That night in the hotel room, Chelsea watched her new husband as he poured the champagne for each of them. He gave her a glass, and made a toast “To our wonderful life together.” They had a sip, brown eyes never leaving hazel eyes. Heath had given Nick some words of advice before the wedding “Take it slow, big brother. Make her fall in love with ya all over. Women like that sort of thing.” Nick smiled at his younger brother’s words.

Nick put his glass down on the bedside table and took his new wife into his arms, kissing her gently. She responded, and thus started the night of beautiful memories. They lay in bed, caressing, moaning and whispering the age old words of love. When they finally joined as one, they were flying to unbelievable heights again and again. Finally passion spent, they fell asleep holding each other till the passion woke them up again.

Heath spent the week putting more hours on the ranch, leaving early in the morning, and coming home late at night. Branding was to begin when Nick came home from his honeymoon and then all would be back to normal. Janine was getting frustrated with the kids, her husband, and life in general. She hated not being able to do much, Heath said he would help out on the weekends when he had more time. With Nick gone, he couldn’t take the time off from the ranch. She understood, but she couldn’t help but get mad. When Heath got home at night, she was in bed sleeping, leaving him his supper in the warmer on the stove.

They decided they wouldn’t tell anyone about the baby until Nick came home so they could be all told at once. One night after the kids had gone to bed, Heath came home early, and Janine was sitting on the swing, deep in thought. Heath was tired and hungry but he couldn’t resist sitting beside his wife. He put his arm around her and she stood up, surprising him. “Don’t touch me Heath Barkley!” she turned to go in. He sat on the swing, staring in disbelief at her. She never refused him before.

He rose off the swing, taking tired steps into the house. He went to the kitchen, opened the warmer on top of the stove and took out his supper. He ate, once again, in silence, pondering Janey’s attitude towards him. He felt the same anger rising up in himself at her. He shook his head, finished his meal and went upstairs. He checked on Leah and David, giving them each a kiss on the forehead and covering them up before he left their rooms. He hesitated before he went to the room he shared with his wonderful, loving wife. He took off his boots, placing them at the end of the bed. He took his vest, and shirt off, placing them on the chair. He stood by the bed and took off his gun belt and belt also placing them on the chair. Lastly, he took off his tan pants, placing them on the chair and climbed into bed. He laid on his back, arms behind his head, sleep taking its time to claim him.

He thought about his life with Janine. He wouldn’t change it one bit. He thought about her alluring smile, her expressive emerald eyes. He thought about all the things they did together. Their honeymoon, they went to Sonora together on horseback. That seemed like a long time ago. They went to Strawberry and saw his family. Janine had that horrible accident with the horse and Heath was attacked by the mountain lion. They went to New York City, something he would love to do again sometime. Anything to make her happy.

His thoughts turned to the babies. Leah and David were happy children. Leah looked so much like Janine but had a few of his characteristics. The smile, Janine told him, was his, her raised eyebrow when she was concerned, or curious about something was his as well. Heath smiled, he loved that little girl. David their adopted son. He was going to be a handful, always following Leah around, wanting to play with her. He was dark haired, and a very big child. Janine was having difficulty carrying him around. He thought fleetingly of their other baby, Little Heath. He had died at childbirth and it took a toll on both of them. They seldom talked about him, but he was never far from their thoughts.

Heath yawned, but his mind was a whirlwind of thoughts. He wondered why Janine told him not to touch her. She must be getting frustrated with having to lie around the house he thought. I know I sure would be. I’m gone all day, when Nick comes back that’ll change. Everything will be back to normal. With this thought in mind, he turned over and snuggled against Janine. He smiled when she pushed herself into his arms and moaned. He kissed her neck feeling relaxed enough to go to sleep. Yep its going to be a long six months he thought. Sighing he closed his eyes, breathing in the lavender scent of her. Sleep finally finding refuge in Heath, he slept deeply till the dawn’s early light woke him up.

Steve was looking after his baby son. He was feeling helpless with the baby and was tempted many times to turn him into the orphanage. He didn’t because he didn’t want the baby to grow up there. He wanted the baby to have a happy home. It was hard work looking after Freddy. He had named him after his father, Frederick, and himself, Steven. Frederick Steven Barstow. It sounded like an important name. An important name for an important baby. Steve worked at the Johnson Ranch, paying Mrs. Johnson a dollar a day for looking after little Freddy. He didn’t like doing it, but he had to do what he had to do. A baby sure takes up a lot of time, he thought. He gave the matter a lot of thought and came up with a plan.

The newlyweds came home a little while later. They were laughing at some private joke when they walked in the door. “Mother! Mr. and Mrs. Nick Barkley are home!” He announced very loudly.

Chelsea giggled and shushed him. “Do you always have to be so loud?” He stopped her protesting by kissing her soundly.

There was a clearing of throats in front of them. They stopped kissing, and found the family standing in front of them. Jenny was very large with child, Jarrod with a huge smile on his face. Victoria with open arms welcoming them home. “Welcome home Nick.” she told him as she kissed his cheek. “Welcome home, Chelsea.” She welcomed her newest daughter-in-law with a hug and a kiss on the cheek.

“Thank you Mrs. Barkley” she said sweetly.

“Oh please. Call me Victoria. You are Mrs. Barkley now too. There are now four Mrs. Barkleys. It may get a little confusing around here.” The matriarch smiled at Chelsea, guiding her and Nick to the settee. Nick poured them all a drink and sat beside his wife, recounting the trip for them, leaving out the personal details.

Heath came in at this point, and saw the couple sitting there. “Boy howdy, Nick! You’re a sight for sore eyes! How was the honeymoon?” He thrust his callused hand out towards Nick who grasped it warmly and slapped his back. “Bout ready to go back to work? This is a working ranch after all!” mimicked Heath.

Nick grinned, “I’m still on my honeymoon, little brother.” Heath threw him his lopsided grin and poured himself a drink. He drank it down and visited with the couple, filling in all the details of the ranch. Nick nodded, all the while staring at his bride. Heath grinned and said it was time for him to be getting home. He said his good byes and promised to bring Janine over in the next couple of days.

Heath leaped on Charger, Indian style, and raced off towards home. He was going home early today to see his family. How he missed them. He hated staying away for such long hours but now that Nick was back, he could come home a little bit earlier.

Once they told them about the baby and how Janine needed to rest a lot, he wouldn’t work such long hours. Besides, he won’t wanna work past dinner time, the cowboy thought as he pushed his hat up so it sat high on his head. He will want to be at home with his wife.

He walked into the house and it was quiet. He wondered everyone was. He stopped at the door and listened. He heard quiet murmuring coming from upstairs, smiling he silently climbed the stairs following the sound of the quiet voices. He stopped at their bedroom door, and peeked in. There Janine was reading silently to Leah who was leaning against her, listening intently. David was asleep beside his mother, thumb in his mouth. He crept quietly into the room and sat on the edge of the bed. Startled, Janine looked up to see Heath watching her with loving interest. She smiled at him, acknowledging the fact that he was there.

“Papa!” screeched Leah, waking David from his sleep. David cried and Janine picked him up and cuddled him till he calmed down. “I missed you Papa!” Leah hugged him tightly. Heath hugged her back, loving the attention that his daughter was giving him. How he had missed that. He smiled at his overly exuberant daughter, and gently set her beside him, taking David from Janine’s arms. David smiled at his father when he gave him a kiss on the forehead. Heath clambered up beside his wife, still holding David and kissed her cheek.

“I missed you, my pretty.” She smiled demurely and looked to him with tear-filled eyes. She leaned against his shoulder and yawned. She watched Leah as she crawled up towards them and sat beside her father. They had all missed him and she felt remorseful after telling him to leave her alone. She didn’t mean it. She was just frustrated because of having nothing to do. The house was looking a little worse for wear, she did try to pick things up, but she tired easily, so she usually just lay on the couch and fell asleep. Leah was really good, she played quietly beside her mother and kept an eye out on David, waking Janine up only when David started crying. Leah was only two and a half but she was a big help. Both parents were proud of her maturity for such a young age.

Janine fell asleep while she was leaning against her husband’s muscular frame. Heath sat there with his family, then decided to get up, leaving Janine to sleep. They would go to the mansion later, when she woke up. Heath slowly and quietly slipped his arm out from under her head, making sure not to disturb her too much. She snuggled down on the bed and smiled in her sleep. Heath smiled faintly at his sleeping wife and kissed her forehead before taking Leah’s hand. The two of them made their way downstairs to make supper and to enjoy each other.

Jarrod and Jenny were enjoying a quiet night in their room, talking about their upcoming birth. The baby was to be born at the end of March making both Jarrod and Jenny very excited but nervous. They had questions and kept asking them to each other and Heath and Janine. The couple answered the questions gently, remembering how nervous they were with Leah.

“The baby is going to be so beautiful with your face and hair” commented Jarrod to his oriental bride. She smiled and nodded, not quite believing him. They were lying on the bed talking and holding hands when Jarrod looked deep into her eyes. “I love you Jenny.”

“I love you too, Jarrod. You are my ray of sunshine.” Jarrod brushed her black hair off her face, then placed his large hands around it. He drew her closer and kissed her. She sighed involuntarily. He parted her lips with his tongue, making her shudder. She responded, wanting to give herself to him, but knowing it was physically impossible, due to her overwhelming size. Breaking off the kiss, she sat up and sighed. “I can’t Jarrod.” Jarrod ran his hand through her black tresses, drawing her into his loving embrace.

“I know you can’t milady. But we can hold each other and kiss once in awhile, can we not?” She nodded in earnest and looked up at him with her brown eyes. He could not resist those brown eyes. He kissed her forehead, then her temple, cheek, making his way down to her neck. He left a trail of kisses going up to her ear and nibbled on it for a few minutes, making her moan with sensual delight. She returned the favor making him glad that they were together. They lay down on the massive bed and held each other, falling asleep with smiles upon their lips.

The main house was full with the family. Heath’s family, Audra and Fred, Jarrod and Jenny, and Nick and Chelsea. Victoria stood by watching all the couples interact with each other, smiling to herself. Her family, she thought. They are all so happy and the house is bustling again with children, soon to be one more. She looked around at all the couples, when she felt a tug on her dress. She looked down and there was Leah wanting to talk to her. She sat down on her favorite chair by the fireplace and patted her knee for Leah to sit upon. Leah climbed up and placed her little arms around Victoria’s neck. “No sad, Gama Vic. I wove you.”

“I’m not sad, Leah and I love you too.” Victoria placed a kiss on the blonde child’s forehead. She is her parent’s child, she mused. Brushing the unruly mop of curls from her face, she studied the little girl. She had Heath’s smile, his nose and his eyes. The rest of her was Janine. Her exuberance for life, her attitude towards people and even her generosity was both her parents. She was well loved, Leah and it showed in all that she did.

There was a lull in the conversation, then Heath spoke up quietly, “Janey and I have something we want to tell ya” Everyone looked towards the couple expectantly. “Um. This was totally unexpected for us seeing its been quite awhile. Janey and I …that is…Janey….” He turned helplessly towards Janine.

She grinned and grasped his hand, “What my wonderful, speechless husband is trying to say is that we are going to have a baby sometime at the end of summer.” Everyone stood still, staring at the couple.

Audra stared at her good friend, dumbfounded. She looked to her husband and said quietly, “You two! Fred and I were going to make the exact same announcement!” Heath grinned and hugged his younger blonde haired sister.

“Congratulations Audra!” He said. Janine and Audra hugged, tears streaming down their faces. The others hugged them and said their congratulations as well. They hugged Janine and Heath, congratulating them as well.

Jenny and Jarrod looked to each other, happy that more children would be added to the family. Jarrod went to Victoria who had tears of happiness in her eyes. She was so lucky to have such a loving family.

When Heath and Janine got home, they put the children to bed and sat outside on their swing. Heath put his arm around his wife and drew her close. Janine laid her head on his shoulder and put her hand on his chest. He kissed the top of her head and sighed. She lifted her reddish blonde head, and stared at him lovingly. She placed a kiss on his neck while he caressed her shoulder. She sighed “I hate this Heath!”

He nodded and pulled her away so he could look at her. “I know, my pretty. Six months is a long time. But if we want the baby to be born when its supposed to….” He purposely did not finish the sentence, knowing full well she knew the consequences.

With tears in her eyes, she nodded. “I know Honey. But its so damn hard. I hate lollygagging around. I hate that you have to come home and pick up after working all day. I want to be able to do these things. I feel like such a heel!”

Heath’s blue orbs filled with tears as he said, “It’s not your fault, Janey. I love you and I don’t mind doing these things. Please don’t do this to yourself. I want you to be careful! I am not ready for death do us part yet!” Hungrily they kissed, passions stirring in both of them. Heath pulled away, guiltily.

“Don’t Heath. Kiss me, please. We can find other ways I am sure to make us be together. I love you Honey.” He traced her lips with his finger, and hungrily placed his own lips on hers. “Heath” she gasped as he grasped her hand, and led her up to the bedroom. They continued kissing when they got to bed, passions stirring hungrily in both of them. “Heath, we have to stop.” Heath groaned knowing full well she was right. This was going to be tough. He held her tight in his arms while she nibbled on his chin.

“Janey. Please don’t. Its not good for either of us.” Janine didn’t listen and moved her kisses down his chest. She caressed his chest through his shirt, then unbuttoned it. “Janey…” She smiled, placing kisses on his bare chest and he pulled her closer. She ran her hands through his chest hair, making him groan with pure delight. “Janey,” he said quieter then opened his eyes wide when he felt what she was doing. Her hands and mouth were working their magic on him and he released his passion. When their passions were spent he pulled Janine up to his lips and kissed her soundly. “Thank you” he said holding her tightly. They fell asleep soon after.

Steve had gone through Kelly’s things at her place above the saloon, seeing that there was no one else to do it. He knew a bunch of her things would go back the orphanage, her personal belongings she would keep. He rummaged through some papers and found a bunch of notes that Kelly had made. Those notes were of things that Kelly was going to do to the Barkleys. He knew she hated Janine but had no idea she was planning to go so far. The notes spooked him, what a vindictive woman Kelly Humphries was. The notes went on in great detail about the different ways of getting rid of her. He read one:

Mrs. Barkley will die a tragick death. What will be good? Shuting? Stab her? Maybe a snake bite. Maybe take her out to the back country with nothing, no water, no food, no horse. That’ll teach her. maybe beat her with a horse whip and tie her to tree. Maybe strip her of everything she owns. Kill that baby of theres too. That will teatch heath to nore me. He will luv me once I get rid of her. That witch. How dare she. I show them Mrs Kelly and Heath Barkley. my don’t that look purty.

He threw that note and the others into the cook stove, watching them burn to ashes. Mr and Mrs. Barkley will be safe now from her.

Steve was not handling fatherhood too well despite all of his good intentions. It was harder then he thought looking after a baby. He always cried, diapers always needed changing, he was always hungry. Steve put in a full days work and couldn’t deal with a crying baby too. Leaving him with Mrs. Johnson was not good either. She always seemed a little perturbed when he dropped Freddy off in the morning. He had to do something but he didn’t know what. Every night he went to sleep with the same thought in his mind, someone should look after the baby. Freddy should have brothers and sisters. But who could I leave him with where I know he will be taken care of? These thoughts floated through his mind each night before he fell asleep. He made a mistake in taking this child. He took another drink of whiskey, passing out on the bed, the bottle falling on the floor beside the bed.

One day followed the next in the Heath Barkley residence. Janine laid in bed as long as she possibly could while Heath and Leah took care of the morning chores. They went out to the verandah to watch the sunrise with their coffee then Janine would lay back down and go back to sleep while they made breakfast.

Janine woke up a little while later with Leah shaking her. “Mama, Papa said for you to wake up. Bweakfast is weady.” Janine stretched and yawned then grabbed Leah in a loving embrace. “Mama get up now!” laughed the little girl.

“Yeah boss. I’m gettin’ up.” Leah grinned her father’s grin and scooted off the bed. She ran down the stairs, while Janine grabbed her house coat, and went downstairs. Heath was dishing up breakfast as Janine slipped her arms around his waist from behind. “I love ya Heath” She let go and sat at the table. Before Heath sat down, he kissed Janine passionately,

“I love ya too, my pretty. Now eat!” He commanded cheerfully. She nodded and dug into her eggs and ham hungrily. Leah ate her breakfast happily and David sat on Janine’s lap waiting for his mother to give him some breakfast too. It was a happy morning, Janine felt almost like herself, not quite so tired and decided to help with the dishes before laying down on the sofa. “Mother said she was coming over today to give ya a hand round the house.” Janine nodded as she dried another dish, handing one to Leah to dry. They finished the dishes in relative silence, each deep in thought while Leah chattered away about the horses.

“Papa, you take wide me on horse?” Heath looked at her quizzically.

“Maybe lil one. On Saturday if Mama says it’s okay.” Janine nodded absentmindedly as she thought about how comfortable the sofa sounded to her. Her feet started to hurt as well as her back. The dishes done, she laid the towel on the counter. Leah followed suit and laid the towel down beside her mother’s. Leah went to check on David, finding that he was sleeping, pulled out her dolls and played with them.

“I gotta go now, Janey.” She nodded, tears forming at the corners of her eyes. She hated this stage. She was so emotional and turned every emotion in a matter of seconds. Heath kissed her gently and tweaked her nose. “Mother said she’d be here around ten. Ya get some rest, k, my pretty?” She nodded, lifting her head for the inevitable kiss. She hated when he was gone all day. It made for a long day.

“K. Heath. I’m gonna miss ya. I wish I could ride out and see ya work. Bring ya a picnic.” He smiled at her and held her close.

“Don’t worry Janey. There will be plenty of time after the baby is born. We will have lots of picnics over at the creek.” He placed his well worn hat on his head. “I’ll be home early.” He said as he kissed her once again and left out the door. Janine followed him outside and stood on the porch, watching him leave. He turned in the saddle and gave a two finger wave to her. He and Charger galloped out of the property and out of her sight.

Janine lay down on the sofa and fell to sleep instantly. Leah played with her dolls, having a tea party and kept an eye on her little brother. She watched her mother sleep and crawled up on the chair and fell asleep herself. No one heard the knock on the door and Victoria crept in when she saw everyone sleeping. She quietly picked up the broom and started sweeping the floor.

Janine woke up a while later when she smelled food cooking. Thinking that Heath was home, she got up and went into the kitchen. She was surprised to see her mother-in-law bustling around looking for dishes. Janine couldn’t help but give her a hug, “Thank you Victoria. Nice of you to help me out like this.”

“No problem, sweetheart. Heath said you should be resting and not to lift a finger.” Janine sighed. “You aren’t going to disobey your husband are you?”

“That husband of mine has no business telling people what I can do or what I can’t do. Gee now I got a baby-sitter!” She blurted then put a hand to her mouth. “I’m sorry Victoria! I didn’t mean the way it sounded!”

“I know Sweetheart. You are frustrated. I remember you being this way with Leah.” Janine and Victoria smiled at each other. “Chelsea said she would come over tomorrow and visit with you.” Victoria added, hoping to change the subject.

“That sounds wonderful! Tell her to come anytime.” Victoria nodded and placed some lunch on the table. Leah climbed sleepily to the table while David decided to wake up. Janine picked him up and brought him to the table, setting him on her lap. She fed him some of the stew that was set in front of her. David was hungry and chewed what little bit that Janine gave him and tried grabbing for more. Janine chuckled, fed him some more and herself as well. “this is really good, Victoria. Thank you.”

“You’re welcome Sweetheart. After lunch, I’ll do the dishes then go home. I swept the floor and made the beds for you while you were sleeping.” Janine nodded, ashamed that she couldn’t do these normal tasks herself. “Don’t worry about it, Janine.” Victoria told her soothingly, “That’s what family is for, to help out when its needed.” Janine had tears in her eyes once again, thinking that she really didn’t deserve the love of this family.

After Victoria left, she and Leah went outside to get some fresh air. They wandered around the yard, looking at the chickens, the horses, while Scout followed them. Janine put David in the stroller and wheeled him around the yard. They walked over to the orchard and looked at the trees they had planted when they moved into the house. They were starting to blossom making the orchard smell wonderful.

Janine turned around and headed off to the house. She needed to lie down again, she had told Leah. Leah was getting frustrated that Janine always had to lie down, and told her so. “Mama! No seep! I tired of seeping! I wanna go somewhere! Take me somewhere! Now!” Janine watched her young daughter throw herself on the ground and have a temper tantrum, legs and arms flailing. The tears started flowing on Janine’s cheek as she tried to explain to Leah that she had to wait till her father came home. “NO! I DON’T WANNA WAIT!.” She stomped her feet and ran into the house. Janine picked up David following her into the house.

Leah had gone to her room and threw herself on her bed. Janine didn’t know what to do so she left her in her room and set David back into the play pen with his bottle. There was still stew left from lunch so she decided that was what they were going to have for supper. She lay on the sofa thinking about Leah when Heath walked in. She sat up and waited for Heath to come to her. He placed his hat on the rack by the door. He strolled to her and gave her a chaste kiss on the cheek. “Hi Janey. How was your day?” he asked her.

She watched him as he sat himself beside her on the sofa. “It was good. Victoria came over, did some housework, made us lunch did the dishes and left again. Then I took Leah and David for a walk out to the orchard.” He nodded and waited for her to continue. “Leah got upset with me. She is upstairs in her room, crying or at least she was crying.” Heath took notice of her tear stained face and kissed her gently on the lips.

“I’ll talk to her. Don’t ya worry. I’m gonna clean up and then see if I can’t talk to her. Ya just relax.” He got up off the sofa and went upstairs. Janine listened to the bath water run and promptly fell asleep. She woke up a while later with her blonde haired daughter lying beside her, little arms wrapped around her neck.

“I sorry Mama.” Leah had tears in her eyes. Janine pulled her closer and hugged her.

“I sorry too Leah. I’m sorry I can’t take you places, I feel bad about that.” Leah nodded.

“I ‘stand Mama. Papa said baby is restin’ in your belly. My lil baby needs lot of rest, so you ‘lax. Papa and I’ll hep ya. No worry, k, mama?” Tears formed in the eyes of the mother, who was holding her daughter snugly.

“I no worry Leah. I know you and Papa will take good care of us.” Heath chose that moment to tell them that supper was ready and to come eat. Janine sighed thinking it wasn’t fair that he wouldn’t even let her cook. She pulled herself off the sofa and headed to the table.

Steve picked up Freddy and hugged him tightly. He loved this son of his, but he was overwhelmed by the responsibility. He suddenly developed a new appreciation for mothers. He ran his hand through his thick unruly hair. Picking up his glass, while looking at Freddy, he took another drink.

I’ve been drinking an awful lot, he mused. He set Freddy down on the blanket that he had placed on the floor. He sat beside the baby, bottle beside him on one side, and the glass in his hand. He was deep in thought as the baby chortled beside him. He lay down beside Freddy and thought about his life.

His parents were killed when he was just a boy. A tragic house fire had killed his entire family, his brother and sister as well. He happened to be spending the night at a friend’s home when the fire occurred. He had no relatives to take care of him, so they put him in the orphanage and that is where he had been ever since. He met Kelly there and they began a secret affair, meeting off the grounds. They had broken up when the Barkleys invited them home to stay with them. He knew that Kelly had a crush on Mr. Barkley but never in his wildest imagination did he think she would go as far as she did. That scared him. She snuck into his room that night and that was when Freddy was conceived, when she wanted to get back together. He had told her no but she insisted. He relented only because he couldn’t resist her beauty. Her personality he would work on.

He did not understand why she hated Mrs. Barkley so much. Maybe it was jealousy. She wanted Heath for herself but knew he wouldn’t go for her. She was mad at him, he reasoned and that’s why she did what she did. Accusing Mr. Barkley of fathering her child. Still, I loved her, she had a kind heart. Just didn’t know how to get along with people. She should be here looking after her baby. Not me!

He picked up Freddy and lay him in his crib while he got a basket ready. He staggered around the house looking for his diapers and bottles, setting them inside the basket. He made up a note to put with the baby:

Mr and Mrs. Barkley:

Please take care of Freddy for me. His whole name is Fredrick Steven Barstow. I know you will take good care of him. Thank you for all that you done. I will soon join Kelly so no worries about me claiming him. Just tell him that his mother and father loved him.

Steven Barstow

He placed the note in the basket and picked up Freddy kissing him on the forehead. “Papa loves you very much.” Placing him in the basket he headed off to the Barkleys, his mind very much at ease. He left him in front of the door, and without looking back he went back to his home.

Steve picked up his bottle and finished it off. He then picked up his pistol. He placed the gun to his temple and pulled the trigger. He fell back on the floor, the gun sliding out of his callused hand. He had joined his beloved Kelly.

Heath woke up when he heard a noise on the front porch. Not wanting to disturb Janine, he got out of bed quietly, taking his gun with him as he descended the stairs. He looked out the window to see a rider galloping down the lane. He opened the door and very nearly tripped over a basket sitting there. He looked down to see what it was he kicked and was very surprised to see what was there.

“A baby!” he exclaimed out loud. He picked the baby up who had started to cry. He was very skinny, could see his ribs, had thick dark hair and wailed to beat the banshee. He lifted the baby on to his lap and checked the basket finding the note in it. He heard a gasp behind him. He turned to find Janine standing there, holding her arms out for the baby. “The note says his name is Freddy. This is Steve and Kelly’s baby.” Another gasp and nod, then went back into the house.

Once back in the house and re-reading the note, Heath rushed up stairs and donned his clothes. “I’ve got to check on Steve, Janey.”

“Be careful Honey.” They kissed quickly and he left after saddling Charger. She watched as he galloped down the lane. She shut the door, ignoring the pain in her back. She took the bottle and gave him some milk to keep him quiet. Freddy fell asleep, and Janine decided to put him in with David until they figured out another place for the babies. She crawled in bed herself, but sleep was slow in coming.

She had a lot of thoughts twisting and turning, making her very nervous about the outcome of this present situation. She wondered why Steve would pick them, of all people, to leave his baby with. I thought Steve was doing well with the baby. He was working, not out at the saloon every night as he once was. What could have happened? I don’t want to keep this baby, its hers! She moaned to herself, then she thought, maybe its a chance to right the wrongs of Steve and Kelly. Obviously they were distraught at the significance of having a baby. They were too young and not ready. Steve thought enough of Heath to make sure his baby was raised properly. She would raise the baby for Steve. She would try to put Kelly out of her mind. It would be hard, but it wasn’t the baby’s fault he was born to such a witch. Yes, she would accept the responsibility of the baby, no matter how hard it was. All I hope, she thought, is that Heath felt the same way.

Heath rode quickly to Steve’s home on the edge of the Johnson property. He had been working there for his room and board. He slowed Charger down to a walk and quietly went up to the house. He dismounted, hitching the horse to the post and knocked on the door. When there was no answer, Heath gingerly opened the door. He saw a faint light from one of the lamps. “Steve!” he called out. “Steve, it’s me, Heath Barkley. Come out! I want to talk to you!” When there was still no answer, Heath walked in. His heart beating wildly, he glanced about the room and found several empty whiskey bottles tossed haphazardly around the room. He heard a noise and he drew his pistol waiting for someone to jump out at him. When nobody jumped out at him, he continued his search around the small little abode. Grabbing the lantern off the table, he wandered about, suddenly sliding on something. He shone the lantern down and what he saw shocked him. There was Steve lying on the floor, gun by his side, blood seeping out of his temple.

He reached his callused hand to the boy’s throat looking for a pulse. Finding none, he crept backwards and left the house intent on finding the sheriff and the doctor. He stopped, dismounted and lost the contents of his stomach. Not being to hold it in any longer, the tears flowed freely. He mounted and thought about the terrible waste of life.

After all the sheriff was called and the doctor looked after Steve, Heath took his tired body and headed home. He wearily took care of his horse and climbed the stairs to bed. He was too tired to even take his clothes off. Just cuddled with his wonderful wife, kissing her hair lightly and fell asleep. He didn’t even wake up when Leah jumped into bed with them. Janine quietly shushed her and led her downstairs to put the coffee on.

There was crying coming from David’s room and Leah looked up, puzzled, at the noise coming from the room. Janine put the coffee on and went upstairs finding Heath getting David out of the crib. Janine reached in and took Freddy, not explaining to Leah what was happening. “Mama? Papa? Who baby that? Baby gone in tummy?” Janine looked to Heath for an explanation. When none was forthcoming, Janine took Leah by the hand and led her downstairs.

Leah got two bottles from the icebox, while they were warming, she formed an explanation in her mind. Confident that she was doing the right thing, she took both bottles, handing one to Heath and sat down with Freddy. “Leah, this baby is a gift from heaven.” Heath looked up at Janine in wonder.

“A gif?” Leah stared at the baby. “Why?”

“Because sometimes parents need a special hand in looking after their children. This one was given to us because the parents thought we were special enough to take care of it. God is giving us a special present of a baby which is still in my tummy.”

Leah’s lips formed an O as she listened to her mother’s story. Heath sat forward listening as well. Janine is a surprise, he thought. Never thought of it that way. She has a special way of looking at things. “This little baby has no parents so we were chosen to look after him so he wouldn’t have to go to the orphanage.”

“Like Davey?” Leah walked over to her little brother.

“Exactly like Davey.” Agreed Leah wholeheartedly. “And you were chosen to be a big sister because you are a special little girl. Mama and Papa love you and are proud of you because of the way you help with Davey. Would you like to help with Freddy too?” Leah nodded so hard so that her blonde mass of curls fell over her face. Janine smiled. “Thank you Leah. I’m gonna need your help because Mama can’t do a lot of things. The baby still needs rest and we will ask Aunt Chelsea, and Grandma Vic to help us. That’s what families do for one another.” She smiled at Heath as she said this. Heath smiled and nodded. He motioned for Leah to come sit next to him. He placed David in her lap and gave her the bottle to finish feeding him. He had to start breakfast.

Janine wandered into the kitchen and put her arms around Heath as he put the bacon on to fry. “Heath, she is forever with us” Heath nodded, knowing full well she meant Kelly. “We will never be rid of her.”

“I know but at least we know the baby will be taken care of and not end up in the orphanage like her parents.” Sighed Heath. “We must think of the baby. We can give him happiness and love. Both Steve and Kelly didn’t know how to do that. And Steve thought enough of us and the baby to give him a chance.” Heath moved the bacon around with a fork as Janine thought about what he had said.

“You’re right Hon. We will do right by Freddy. I will love him as my own. Its goin’ to be hard for both of us but we won’t treat him any different then the other children. What happened last night Heath?” He stopped what he was doing, turning to look at her. Janine gasped when she saw the incredulous look on the large man’s face. “What? What happened to Steve?” She couldn’t keep her voice down.

With a broken voice, he told her quietly, what had happened. After he was done, he turned around and stirred the bacon, then went to the icebox to find the eggs. Janine didn’t say a word for a few minutes. “Heath, we have to keep Freddy for sure now. I don’t want him going to the orphanage, and I don’t think Steve did too. That’s why he left him here.”

Heath nodded, then pulled her close as he stirred the bacon. He kept his arm around her as he pondered her remark. Suddenly, he kissed the top of her head and pushed her away. “I love ya, my pretty. No wonder I stay married to ya. Always thinkin’ of others. Now out of my kitchen. You’re distracting me and we’ll end up with a burnt breakfast if you stay!” Janine grinned and gave him a peck on the cheek.

“All right! All right! Give the man an inch and he takes a mile! Gee whiz!” muttered Janine as she left the kitchen. Heath chuckled as he finished breakfast.

After the babies were laying down for their morning nap and Leah played with her dolls under the tree, Janine walked with Heath to the barn, while he saddled Charger. She sat on a hay bale that was near the stable and watched. She got up and strode over to him, putting an arm around his waist as he worked. He stopped what he was doing and sighed. He turned around and buried his face into her neck. He pulled her closer and whispered, “I love ya, my pretty.” His lips searched for hers and finally they met in a frenzy. “You’re not supposed to be out here, ya know!” he told her in between kisses.

“I know, but I wanted to be with you. I’ll go in when you leave and lie on the sofa. I’m feeling a mite tired, anyway. Gee whiz. I hate being tired all the time!” Heath smiled and nodded understanding. He hated lying around as well and with three kids its got to be tough.

“You just make sure that you lie down. With an extra kid, that means extra work. I’ll talk to the family and see if they can’t help out.” Janine gritted her teeth, hating the fact that she needed help taking care of her family.

With tears forming in her eyes, she nodded, “I guess so Heath.” The saddling done, they looked at each longingly. Their times alone together were getting farther and farther apart. “I love ya Heath. Please come home early.”

He touched her face, loving the smooth feel of it. “You can count on it, Janey. Ole Nick will just have to go it alone for a while.” He grinned his special grin at her. “Now go inside and lay down. I’ll send someone over to help when I get there.” He kissed her passionately as he mounted Charger and rode off, looking sorrowfully at his wife. Janine motioned for Leah to come inside with her and she lay down on the sofa, falling asleep almost instantly.

Heath rode to the mansion, dismounted and went inside. “Mornin’ Heath.” He nodded and kissed his mother’s cheek. “Coffee? You look like you could use one.” Heath took the cup from Victoria’s hand and sipped the piping hot brew.

“Mother.” Heath looked beseechingly at Victoria. His eyes filled with water but he refused to let them fall. “Would you or someone else be so kind as to look in on Janine? We seem to have our hands full with an extra baby.” Everyone gaped at him in shock.

“An extra baby? Whatever do you mean, Heath?”

Heath took a deep breath and explained what had transpired in the wee hours of the morning. By the time he was finished, everyone had tears in their eyes, including Chelsea and Jenny who had come from the kitchen after finishing their breakfast. “We’ll all go over and visit her. Victoria, we should get Audra too. We can have an old fashioned hen party.” The men all chuckled.

“Just make sure you’re back home to cook supper wife,” demanded Nick. Chelsea stood in front of him, hands on her hips, and stared at him.

“Just make sure you’re home to eat, husband!” They left to go their separate ways each affected by the death of Steven and the arrival of another baby.

The Barkley women descended on Janine in good spirits. Soon, they were laughing and gossiping while the babies were passed from woman to woman. Leah sat with her mother, watching her babies as they made their rounds. Janine sensed Leah’s mood and hugged her tight, whispering “I love you my big girl” Leah nodded and hugged her back.

Victoria fixed some lunch while the other ladies did the other chores, collected eggs, fed the animals, cleaned up the house. Janine was grateful for all the help but was a little annoyed that she couldn’t help. It was her house after all. Jenny sat and talked to her as they wouldn’t let her do too much either. So the two girls feeling a little out of place, talked about the babies and what they meant to them.

Later that afternoon, they had supper started, the house cleaned, and promised that someone would be back to every day to help her out. Janine was grateful but couldn’t wait till she could do things on her own. She hated having people doing her chores for her. Oh well, I guess I can’t complain, they do like to help out the family and once this baby is born, well I will just have to make it up to them somehow! She mused.

Heath came home to find his growing family dozing. He strolled over to the play pen and saw that both babies were sleeping soundly. Leah was lying on the sofa snuggled in Janine’s arms. Heath went quietly up the stairs and had a bath, taking his time, knowing his family needed the rest. He sat in the tub, and thought about little Freddy. They were going to speak to Jarrod about adopting him legally. I reckon that Kelly won after all, he sighed and closed his eyes.

Janine hated to wake her sleeping husband up but the water was getting cold and he needed some nourishment. She smiled and felt around the tub for the plug. She accidentally touched his foot and he opened an eye. “Whatcha doin’ my pretty?” He gave her a faint smile as she pulled the plug.

“Time to get up, sleepyhead, before you drown.” She held out her hand to help him out. She dried his back for him and kissed it. He moaned and took the towel from her. He dried himself while she watched. When he was done, she went to him, kissing his chest and making her way up to his lips. They were kissing in a heated frenzy when they heard crying from downstairs. “I guess that’s our cue.” groaned Heath unwilling to let up.

“Hmmph. I guess so Heath. I don’t want to leave you just yet but with three kids, we don’t have much time to ourselves.” Heath nodded in agreement. “And when this baby makes an appearance, its going to come further apart. I love you Heath”

“I know Janey. I love ya too. As soon as I get dressed, I’ll help ya with the babies.” He pulled her close again and kissed her passionately before letting her go. She giggled and nodded. She went downstairs to get the bottles ready after seeing to the babies. Leah was keeping them amused by making voices with her dolls. That kept them quiet long enough until Heath came and picked them up and held them. He set them both on the floor and started to change their diapers when Janine entered the room and helped him.

As they fed the babies their bottles, they spoke a little of their day. Leah played quietly with her dolls and listened to her parents idle talk. “I reckon we should hire a nanny. What do ya think my pretty?” Janine looked up in surprise. That very thought had just passed through her mind earlier in the day when all the family was over.

“I reckon it’s a good idea, honey. When this baby comes, we are going to have a time looking after all them. Four kids…whew!” Heath smiled and nodded. Having four small children was going to be tough but they would handle it.

Jarrod and Jenny were talking in the study before supper, when the pains started. Jarrod sent Nick for the doctor while Victoria tended to Jenny. Chelsea took Jarrod downstairs and poured him a drink. “Drink this” she demanded, putting the drink in the shaking man’s hands. “She will be fine, Jarrod. She is in good hands with your mother.” Her words did little to calm him down. He knew she was right but he couldn’t help but think of his wife up there, needing him, delivering their baby. He gulped down another drink and sat down to wait.

Nick came in with the doctor, Heath’s family, Audra and Fred, taking the physician, Janine and Audra upstairs to where Jenny was lying. She was just coming through another contraction when Dr. Merar walked in. Smiling, he checked her over and told her that the baby would be making a presence very soon. She smiled and asked how Jarrod was. “He is downstairs with Nick and Heath, very nervous.” Janine sneaked out of the room and went downstairs.

“Jarrod” Janine greeted everyone with a nod but her eyes were on Jarrod who was puffing away on a Cuban cigar, rising when he saw Janine. She smiled at him serenely. “Jenny will be delivering soon. It won’t be long” Janine hugged Jarrod. “She is okay. Just wanted to tell you that everything is fine. Do you want me to stay with you?”

“Thanks Janine. My brothers will be keeping me company. You go back up there and tell me when my…I mean our…baby is born and make sure Jenny is okay!”

Janine hugged him again and headed up the stairs. “She will be fine and in a few hours you will be a father, big brother!”

Heath started after his wife, stopping her on the stairs. “I love ya Janey, don’t you be doin’ too much, k?” Janine walked down a stair so she was even height with him and put her arms around his neck.

“Don’t worry, love. I am feeling a bit tired, but I want to see this baby born. I will sit in the chair and watch. But I aint missing this” She smiled and kissed him. “I love ya too honey.” She caressed his hair, loving the feel of it, then let go, ascending the stairs. Heath watched her till she disappeared out of sight and went back to calming Jarrod down. It was going to be a long night.

Jarrod wandered around the room, looking down at his little niece and two nephews. These were the special children in his brother’s life and he could see how complete Heath and Janine were. They had been through a lot but yet were very happy and contented with their lives. They constantly worried about one another and one was always lost without the other around. That’s the way he felt about Jenny and Jarrod hoped it showed.

He listened to the screams coming from upstairs. He almost ran up there but Heath laid a hand on his arm and brought him back to the parlour. Heath talked quietly to him. Nick and Chelsea watched as Heath calmed Jarrod down. “Why aren’t ya up there with the other women” Nick asked of his wife.

Chelsea gave him a searching look and answered, “I don’t know. Scared, I guess.” Nick placed his arm around her shoulders and drew her close. He kissed her soft tresses and held her. She placed her arms around his neck and held him. “Sounds silly, don’t it?”

“No Chel. I understand. But we are goin’ to have babies, right?” His hazel eyes searched her face waiting for an answer.

She hesitated a bit before answering, “Of course, honey. Anything for you.” They held each other close then reluctantly let go, wincing when the yelling started. The yelling and screaming went on for what seemed like hours. Jarrod was in near panic until he heard the crying of a baby. Nothing could hold him back now as he ran up the stairs, two at a time and threw open his bedroom door. There was his wife, sitting up with a baby in her arms and a huge smile on her face. He walked up to her slowly and tentatively, and kissed Jenny lightly on the cheek.

“The baby. Is the baby all right?” The dark haired lawyer was usually not at a loss for words, but looking at his beautiful Asian wife and his baby, he felt speechless.

Jenny smiled at him and held out the baby for him to take. “Meet your daughter, Jarrod Thomas Barkley.” He took the baby in his arms and smiled at her.

“Hi milady. I’m your father. What might your name be?” The women and Dr. Merar chuckled.

“Jenny, your baby is fine, I will come back in a couple of days to make sure everything is fine. Janine, I want to check on you, all right?” Janine yawned and nodded.

“I guess so, Doctor. I don’t know why, I feel fine.”

“You know why, young lady. Now lets find you a room so I can give you a check up.” Janine reluctantly followed Dr. Merar and Victoria. She hated this. She was going to be confined to her bed. She just knew it.

“Don’t tell Heath that Dr. Merar is examining me! Please Victoria! I’ll tell him myself.” She looked imploringly at her mother in law.

Victoria shook her head. “You know I can’t keep secrets from my sons.” Janine’s eyes formed tears and ran down her cheek.

“Okay Victoria, I reckon you’re right. Boy howdy! I just can’t keep anything to myself without worrying anyone else!” Victoria smiled as she left the room to check on the new parents.

Jarrod and Jenny had decided on a name for their daughter. “Mother meet Catherine Chan-Juan Barkley. Chan-Juan meaning the moon, graceful and lady like. Isn’t it a beautiful name Mother?”

“Its beautiful Jarrod! A beautiful name for a beautiful baby. May I take her downstairs to introduce her to her aunts and uncles?” the new parents were exhausted and nodded the affirmative. They sat together on the bed, holding each other and fell asleep soon afterwards.

Dr. Merar checked Janine over. “Have you been resting, Janine?” She nodded. “Have you been experiencing any pain?”

“A little, but it goes away.” Dr. Merar frowned at the admission.

“Janine I must stress! You have to rest more. If you don’t, I am going to make you stay in bed for the rest of your confinement.” Janine crossed her arms across her chest and sighed heavily. “I mean it Janine. If you don’t rest, this baby will be born much sooner then you want it to be!”

Tears were threatening to fall when Janine looked up to see Heath standing at the door. He had heard the doctor’s words and came over to sit with her. “Thank ya Dr. Merar. I’ll make sure she rests.” Janine glared at him with a ferociousness he had never seen before. Heath stood his ground and gave her a look that made hers look mild. “Thank ya Doc.” Howard looked at both of them and shook his head. He closed his bag and went out the door with a word of warning to rest more.

“Janine Marie Barkley!” Heath sat on the bed next to her and held her hand. She tried to duck her head under the blankets. She hated it when he used her whole name, it meant that he was not pleased with her. He grabbed hold of the blanket and looked her with concern. “Why didn’t you tell me that you were having some pain?”

“Because I didn’t want you to worry about me.” she admitted.

“That’s part of being married and in love, ya worry about each other. Ya know that. I shouldn’t have to tell ya.” Janine looked down at their hands and didn’t say anything. He was right but didn’t want to tell him so. She was so quiet that Heath thought she had fallen asleep. “We’re going to stay here until we find a nanny or the baby is born.” Janine looked up at him, her eyes full of tears.

“I don’t wanna Heath. I wanna go home.”

“I know ya don’t, my pretty. But ya can’t look after all three of the children and me and yourself. Its not possible, Janey.” He hated the idea of moving back to the mansion as well but he would do anything for Janine. “I promise I’ll find someone soon, k?” All she could do is nod and let the tears fall. She felt so useless and didn’t like to feel that way. Heath lay down beside her and held her as her body shook with overwhelming sobs.

Down the hall, Jarrod and Jenny were content with their new little daughter, Caty. After Cat was introduced to her new family, Victoria brought her back to be fed. The new family fell asleep together, happy in the knowledge that they created a new life.

Victoria walked past the closed door of Heath’s old room. She paused just for a minute when she heard the sobbing of her daughter-in-law. She heard the soothing words of her stepson and knew that they would be staying at the mansion for a while. She smiled to herself. My family is almost back together for a while, better enjoy it. she mused.

Nick and Chelsea were having a hard time sleeping. The excitement of the new baby in the house was settling down, the older Barkley children settled into a room next to their parents. Sobbing could be heard from their room and Heath’s quiet voice having an effect of calming them down. Eventually it was quiet enough to go back to sleep. “Chel?”

“Yeah Nick” yawned Chelsea. She turned over and hugged him. She kissed his lips tenderly and caressed his hair. She felt a tension in him and stopped what she was doing. “What’s wrong? Did I do something?”

Nick reached over and turned on the lamp. “Honey, do you want children?” Chelsea sat up and put her hands on her mouth.

“Of course I do. Anything for you my love.” she said unconvincingly. Nick gave her a sideways glance and rose out of bed. He strolled over to the table and poured himself a drink. Chelsea slipped out of bed and walked slowly over to her husband. She placed her hands strategically on his lean, muscular body. He pushed her away roughly and paced his words to her. Chelsea drew in her breath, wondering why he was being so abrupt with her.

“Chelsea, I hate it when you don’t tell me the truth.” He roared at her with a viciousness that she had never heard from him. She shook with fear.

“But I’m not lying Nick! I do want your babies! I just don’t want them right now!” She put her hands to her face and started crying. One thing Nick hated more then lying was crying women. It’s not that he hated the crying, everyone cried for a reason. He hated it because women tended to use crying to gain sympathy and he always seemed to fall victim to it. Well not this time! He thought angrily, she won’t get away with it this time!

“I wanna know why you’re so evasive when I mention babies. Why you didn’t even hold little Cat!” Chelsea took her hands away from her face and stared unbelievingly at her husband. She thought he hadn’t noticed that she didn’t hold the baby. This husband of hers was ever observant to everything she does, she mused.

“Oh Nick! I’m sorry! I don’t know why but babies really frighten me! I want a baby but I’m afraid.” She burst into real tears and Nick went to her, reassuringly. He took his sobbing wife in his arms and held her tightly. He loved the scent of her hair and breathed it in deeply before lifting her head for a meaningful kiss. They moaned in ecstasy while they hurriedly undressed each other. Nick lifted her up and carried her to bed, covered her body with his own and passionately made love with her.

After their passions were sated, they held each other and he said to her, “Honey, you never ever have to be scared. I’ll always be here to help you. You have my word on that.”

“Oh Nick, I don’t know why I’m so scared. Babies are so tiny, so helpless and so dependent on you. I am not sure if I’m ready for that kind of responsibility.”

“Well Chel,” he kissed her thick full lips sensually before continuing, “neither am I but we will cross that bridge when it happens, k? We will do fine. If it makes you feel any better, I’m a little scared too.” Nick scared? Big, tough, loving Nick, scared of a little baby? she was surprised at his admission. This had never occurred to her.

“Ok, Nick. Thank you. I’m sorry that I’m such a baby myself.” She smiled at the similarity. She kissed him passionately, their need for each other growing for each other once again. After a while they settled down and went to sleep, happy that they had each other and would conquer any fear as long as they had each other.

The next morning, David and Freddy woke up at the same time, waking everyone up in the house. Heath got out of bed and went to his sleeping boys. He picked both of them up and took them downstairs with a sleepy Leah following behind him. Janine woke up a while later and came slowly down the stairs and took Freddy from Victoria. Heath glanced at her while she spoke in a soft tone. “The doctor said I had to rest Heath. He didn’t say that I couldn’t be with my kids. Now quit giving me that look and let me feed Freddy.” Victoria smiled in spite of herself. Janine is a force to be reckoned with. She can put up a good argument and will fight for her rights. A good compliment to the quiet Heath. She thought of all this as she went to get the coffee for them. Leah followed asking questions about the new baby.

One by one everyone rose and came downstairs in various levels of wakefulness. Nick and Chelsea came downstairs hand in hand, playfully teasing each other. Jarrod came down drowsily nodding his greetings and went into the dining room for coffee. “Cat kept us awake every couple of hours” he stated trying to explain his disheveled appearance. Janine and Heath nodded as they walked into the dining room to eat breakfast with the family. Janine held Freddy and tried to drink her coffee. Heath sat with David and fed him some of his breakfast.

“Here Heath, ya take Freddy and I’ll take care of Davey.” They traded and was aware that everyone was watching them. Leah sat between them, quietly watching her parents. “Leah are ya eatin’?” She nodded but didn’t answer. Her parents were a little testy this morning and she didn’t want to anger them further.

“Mother, may we stay here for a while? Janine is needing more rest and being at the house she won’t get it with three children. At least here, there will be someone to help her when she needs it.” Heath was relieved he had got it out and avoided looking at Janine. He knew that she was eyeing him furiously but she didn’t say a word.

“Of course, Son. No need to ask. This is still your home. Janine will get all the rest she needs with none of the worry.” She smiled at Janine who had gotten up with David and walked out of the room. “She is not happy with this idea, I take it?”

“No Mother. She’s not. She wants to be at home, takin’ care of us in her own way. She hates being dependent on anyone.” He sighed. “I’ll talk to her. She knows it has to be this way. I don’t know why she’s fightin’ this.”

“It’s okay Heath.” She patted her arm and took Freddy from him. “I think I understand. She is overwhelmed and is afraid to ask for help. Remember when she was with Leah. She was just as miserable then.” Heath sighed again and tousled Leah’s locks.

“Yeah you’re right. I guess I’ll just have to be patient. But boy howdy, its wearing thin!” Everyone chuckled at his remark

Jarrod had gone upstairs to be with his new family. He sat talking to Jenny who was nursing Catherine. “She sure is a little sweetie, Jenny.” The Oriental woman nodded in agreement. Catherine had lots of dark hair that stuck out all over. She had oriental features plus her father’s blue eyes which made her look very unique. Jenny had her dressed in a traditional red and gold kimono which made her features really stand out. Jenny finished nursing and gave Catherine to Jarrod to burp her.

Jenny got out of bed and wandered a bit around the room. “Jarrod I want to see Janine. Is she okay?” Jarrod nodded slowly.

“She is a little upset because she has to rest. Heath has his hands full with her and all three children. I think she will be okay but she needs a friend.” She nodded.

“I understand. I will go see her a little later after Chan-Juan goes to sleep.” Jarrod smiled at her use of the Chinese name. It sounded beautiful rolling off her tongue. He hoped that Catherine would learn mandarin language. Jarrod liked the Chinese traditions and found that he wanted Jenny to keep her heritage. He wanted Catherine to learn about her heritage as well so she would know no prejudice from her people and he would teach her the western ways of his people.

He thought of all this as he held his newborn daughter. He loved her with a passion he never thought possible. He knew now what Heath must be feeling with his ever growing family. They had so many problems with pregnancies, he thought, and yet they manage to persevere despite the many pitfalls. Those two really deserve each other. They manage to stay happy despite all that has happened to them. Right now is a bad time for them. Jenny and I will make sure they will not want for nothing. He smiled. He would talk to his younger brother and see what he could do to help.

Catherine fell asleep and Jenny slowly made her way to Heath and Janine’s bedroom. She knocked on the door, waiting for Janine to ask her to come in. Presently, she heard a weak, “Come in” She opened the creaking door and went in, pulling a chair close to the bed.

“Hi Janey. I figured since you couldn’t come and visit me, I would come and visit you. How you doing?” inquired Jenny.

“I’m so glad you came to visit me. I hate being stuck in this god forsaken bed. Heath is the worst mother hen I have ever known.” exploded Janine with intense displeasure.

Jenny smiled at her sister-in-law. She sure has a temper she mused and out loud she said, “I understand Janey. I’d hate it too if I was stuck in bed too.” Janine gave her a funny look and laughed.

“I’m sorry Jenny. You should be in bed, not wandering all over the house!”

“No, Chan-Juan is sleeping. Jarrod calls her Cat and I call her Chan-Juan. So I decided to come see how you are. Your babies are so cute.” Janine smiled.

“Can I talk to you honestly?” Janine wanted desperately to tell someone how she was feeling but didn’t want to confide in Heath yet. She needed another female to talk to. Someone who understood.

“Yes you can. I want you to know that you can always come talk to me whenever you feel the need to, all right?” Janine nodded and pointed to the door.

“Close the door first, k?” Jenny got up and shut the door and sat down again. “I’m scared Jenny.” Jenny looked at her friend and nodded, understanding how frightened she must feel. “I’m scared that I won’t have this baby and something will go terribly terribly wrong.”

“Janey, you mustn’t borrow trouble. Live for one day at a time.”

“That’s what Heath says too. But I can’t help my feelings Jenny and I can’t tell Heath about them. He tries to help but he really doesn’t understand.”

“Yeah men don’t know a lot about women’s problems.” She chuckled. “You know how thoughtful Jarrod is. Well he had to make me laugh one time.”

“Why what did he do?”

“I was really big with Chan-Juan and he asks me if I needed anything. I said yeah I wanted this baby born. Well he stuffed pillows in his shirt and strutted around the room like that. I told him that didn’t help. I wanted this baby out NOW! He got this sad look on his face and pouted. He said, all I was trying to do was help.”

Janine broke out in laughter as she pictured Jarrod prancing around the room, trying to act like he was carrying a baby. That made her feel a lot better. Jenny joined her and as they were laughing, the door creaked open and in walked Heath shaking his sandy blond head. “Okay. I see I’m gonna have start knockin’ on my door again, am I?” This made the girls laugh even harder, even Heath chuckled at them. It was so nice to see that Janine was laughing.

“I got to go tend to Chan-Juan now Janey. I will bring her by when she is awake, so you can see her. Please lets talk again. All right?”

“Yes thank you Jenny. I needed that. I think we may be here for a while since Heath won’t let me out of bed. Hey! That might not be a bad thing.” She smiled evilly at her husband and blushed. Jenny giggled and hugged Janine. “Thanks Jenny”

“You are welcome Janey. Don’t worry. Things will be fine. Now I hear some children crying. I had better go see if that’s my baby. Talk to you a little later, ok”

“Ok Jenny. Heath are the babies okay? Bring them in here so I can see them, please?” Heath lay on the bed and hugged her warmly.

“I just want to hold you first. You are feeling better?” Heath looked concerned.

“Yeah I just hate being in this stupid bed. I want to be at home, doing my chores, and looking after my family. I feel so bad that I can’t and it makes me angry. It makes me angry because you have to take care of me. I HATE IT!” Heath sat up and held her hand bringing it to his lips. He kissed the softness and held it in his masculine one for a while before answering.

“I know, my pretty, but it has to be. There is no sense fighting it. Mother will take care of the babies. And I give ya my word that as soon as I find a nanny, then we will move back home. But not until then. Three kids are too much for ya to look after when you’re in this condition.” Janine sighed heavily and looked towards the door.

“Go get Leah for me. I haven’t seen her all day. Then bring the babies here so I can feed them at least. Please?” Heath nodded, wanting to see his children as well. He let go of her hand and caressed her hair lovingly. “I love ya Heath”

“I love ya too my pretty.” There was a quiet knock on the door and it opened slowly. Leah came in and jumped on the bed to hug her mother.

“Mama! Papa! I miss you” Janine nodded with tears in her eyes.

“And what have ya been doin’ all day?” Leah hugged her father before answering.

“Gama Vic took me for a walk. We cwected eggs, saw baby chicks. I help Siwas with some baking. He nice. Oh yah. I spose to tell you. Suppa weady soon. I have to go help Siwas set table. He like when I help.” The parents smiled at their daughter and Heath took her hand.

“Let’s go Lil One. I have to go get the babies for Mama. Wanna help me?”

“Heath I wanna go downstairs for supper. I been good. Let me be around people for a while.”

Heath nodded. “I’ll carry the babies downstairs. Ya are not to carry anything heavy, do ya hear me?” Janine nodded her head vehemently. She got up slowly and headed off down the stairs. Heath brought the boys down and they sat in the parlour, feeding the babies. One by one the rest of the family joined them for their pre-supper drinks.

Jenny came downstairs bring Catherine with them. Janine smiled at Jarrod and Jenny. They pulled back the blanket and showed her the baby. “She is the sweetest baby with those gorgeous eyes and all that hair!” exclaimed Janine. Jarrod and Jenny smiled at the excited woman and nodded. They had to agree with that assessment. She was the most beautiful baby.

They crowded themselves around the table and had a delicious meal consisting of chicken cacciatore, rice pilaf, and steamed carrots in a creamed sauce. Nick smacked his lips in anticipation. It was his favorite meal and Chelsea helped Silas prepare it with Leah’s help. The talk around the table was lively, everyone talking to everyone at the same time. Victoria couldn’t help but smile as she noted the happy faces. The laughter resounded around the table as someone told a funny story. Victoria missed it because she was reminiscing and just enjoying the chatter that was her family.

After dinner, Leah helped the women clear off the table and do the dishes. Heath gently guided Janine into the poolroom for some time with the family before she had to go rest again. As long as she didn’t overdo and didn’t get too fatigued, she could sit and visit for a while. She held David while Freddy made the rounds with the family. Leah sat beside her mother and wanted to hold her brother. Janine put David on her lap while she talked to Chelsea about some new kind of machine called a sewing machine.

“A sewin’ machine?” Janine couldn’t believe there was such a machine.

“Yeah its pretty neat. Nick is ordering it for me. Says it will get all the mending and sewing done faster.”

“Well that oughta be interestin’.” Janine yawned at this point and handed David over to Heath. “Let’s put the children to bed Heath. I am getting really tired and should go lie down before my Lord and Master tells me I need to.” she grinned as she said this while chuckled at Heath’s expense. He was just going to tell her that it was time to go back to bed but she beat him to it. She bade everyone good night and the family headed up the stairs with everyone watching them.

As they put the children to sleep, Freddy started to fuss and had to be changed. Heath picked him up, handing him to Janine. Janine changed his diaper and studied the baby’s features as she did so. He reminded her so much of Kelly with the reddish darkish hair. The inquisitive brown eyes were Steve’s but the rest of the face belonged to Kelly. They would be forever reminded of her, but she was determined to love this baby. It wasn’t his fault that he was born to this world, but she would make sure that he was as well loved as the rest of their children.

Leah watched her parents as they put the babies to sleep waiting for her time. She missed her parents undivided attention, but she was willing to share her parents with her brothers for now. Leah went to her room and changed into her nightdress . She waited in her bed for her story and talk before snuggling down to sleep. Her parents came in and sat one on either side of her. “What book would you like tonight, Lil One?” Janine asked.

“No book Mama. I wanna go to seep.”

“No book? Are ya feelin’ well?” Janine checked her forehead. No fever she thought nervously.

“No sick Mama. I just tired is all.”

“I love ya Leah” he said to her softly as he kissed her cheek.

“Wove you Papa” She stretched her arms to her mother. “Wove you Mama. Please no mad at me?”

“I’m not mad at ya Honey. Do ya wanna talk ‘bout it?”

“Mama, are the babies stayin foever?”

“Yes honey. They are.”

“the baby restin’ in belly. Will he stay too?”

“Is that what’s botherin’ ya?” Leah nodded vehemently, tears forming in her eyes. “Leah” Janine gathered her in her arms, “no matter how many babies come to this family, you are special to us. You and me are a kindred spirit, Leah”

“What that mean Mama?”

“It means we’re a lot alike. I see a lot of things that you do and it reminds me of when I was a little girl. I love havin’ you helping me and I love you more for the girl you are. You are kind to others, helpful to everyone you meet especially your relatives. I love that. Don’t ever feel that you’re not special Lil One. Cuz you are special to me and to Papa.” She hugged her tightly and smoothed her untamed locks off her face. “Feel better?”

“Yes Mama. But those babies just gotta stay, huh?” Leah looked up at her mother with that smile of her father’s and those big blue curious eyes. Leah smiled and hugged her again

“Yes Leah, the babies gotta stay. They are special to us too.”

“Okay Mama. I guess I wike it.” Janine looked at Heath with tear filled eyes. He hadn’t said a word while she was speaking to Leah. He didn’t have to say a word. His eyes said it all, they were filled with love for his girls.

They turned down the light for her and left the door ajar after they said their goodnights. Heath took Janine’s hand and led her to the bedroom they were sharing. Janine changed into her nightdress and watched as Heath took off his boots and sat on the bed beside her. He held out his arms and she went into them willingly. They held each other for a while before either of them spoke. “I miss our swing Heath.”

“Me too Janey. Soon, we’ll go home, I promise.” Janine looked up at him, knowing that he always kept his promises. They enjoyed being at the main house, but they loved the privacy of their own home and all the familiar ways of doing things, their way. Heath kissed the top of her head, inhaling the sweet fragrance of lilac that penetrated through her hair. Her hands caressed his shirt feeling the soft hair that was under it. She absentmindedly undid a couple of buttons to feel his chest. He groaned involuntarily as she caressed his bare skin. He drew her closer, wanting more of that sweet fragrance and the feel of her soft skin. He loved her completely and when he was out on the range, chasing cattle, he felt her riding along side even though she was at home. She was in everything he did from the kids to their house. He sighed as he thought of these things and decided he would write it all down to her so she would remember it always.

She was having similar thoughts. Her eyes grew heavy but she thought about the way he loved her. She loved to see him at his happiest, outside working, continually working. She thought about it, he was never still. Always something for him to do, whether it be helping her, the ranch, helping his mother, fixing something. Always something and yet he was never tired. Janine thought about the way he was with people, never casting judgment no matter what nationality, or what their job. He had a wonderful rapport with everyone. He treated everyone with respect. That’s what she loved most about him. Her eyes grew heavy with each passing thought and soon they closed completely, a smile upon her face.

Heath untangled himself from her, and not feeling tired went downstairs to play some pool with his brothers. It had been a while since he could do that and was going to take advantage of it, especially since Janine was doing a lot of sleeping. He checked on the children before going back to the pool room where he knew everyone was. He poured himself a drink and told the brothers he would play the winner. They agreed and Heath eventually played Nick. The three brothers played a few games before they decided to call it a night. It had seemed like old times before they all got married.

Heath lay in the darkness unable to sleep. He lay on his side, draping his arm over the sleeping Janine. She sighed and moved closer to him, folding her body into his. He smiled as he listened to her deep even breathing. He absentmindedly caressed her stomach where their baby was growing. Soon, they would feel it moving around in its tightly wrapped quarters. He smiled as he remembered Leah before she was born. Janine was such an emotional wreck when she was with child. She went fleetingly from one mood to another, and Heath never knew what to expect when he returned from a full day’s work out on the ranch. This time was going to be different, he was going to anticipate her moods and head them off at the pass. With this thought in mind, he leaned over and kissed her cheek. She opened her eyes and turned around, kissing him gently. Snuggled in each other’s arms they fell back into a gentle, peaceful sleep, content with peace and love that penetrated their very souls.

The next few weeks passed by quickly, all the ladies of the house doing their own things, seemingly only to come alive when their husbands came home for the day. Audra came to visit her sisters-in-law everyday. Her and Janine still had their private talks that did not include the other two. Chelsea and Jenny were not jealous of them, in fact they seemed to welcome the friendship. They seemed to understand that Audra and Janine needed each other. Both were due with their babies at near the same time and shared similar experiences with their prior beaus before settling down with their respective husbands.

Jenny was getting restless and wanted to go back home to San Francisco but had to wait as Jarrod was working on a tough case that took all of his time including important family time. Jenny was upset about this and told her dashing husband this. They had some quiet arguments about his working habits, causing him to work more and come home less. Jarrod hated doing this to his family but he needed time to adjust to his ever argumentative wife. She had changed since Cat was born, she was argumentative and seemingly angry at him. The dark haired lawyer did not know what to do, and sat brooding in his office about this situation.

Jarrod was buried in his paperwork when the door opened and there stood his two brothers smiling wickedly at him. “What are you two up to this fine day?” inquired Jarrod looking up from his pile of papers. “Can’t you see that I have a lot of work to do?”

“Yeah we can see that Brother Jarrod. But we can also see that you need a break.”

“C’mon Jarrod, Nick said he was buyin’ us a drink!” Nick gave his younger brother a menacing look. Jarrod watched this exchange and decided that he indeed needed a drink and probably a brotherly lecture coming on as well. He donned his hat and jacket, picked up a cigar and stuffed it in his pocket.

“Ok boys, lets let Nick buy us that drink. I think I can use a little break from this paperwork. The ranch’s paperwork. The ranch you two should be running, I might add!” He said with a twinkle in his eye and a smile on his lips.

He herded them out the door and out onto the street. The trio made their way to the saloon and ordered their drinks. Heath and Nick watched as Jarrod downed a couple shots of whiskey. “Jarrod you’re powerful thirsty today!” mentioned Heath casually as they made their way to a table and sat their large frames into the chairs.

“What’s wrong with ya Jarrod” Nick asked as he watched the lawyer down his fourth shot of whiskey.

“Nothin’. Why do you think anythin’ is wrong?” Jarrod gaped at his brothers through glassy eyes, the alcohol starting to have an affect on him.

“Cuz you are downing that whiskey like its runnin’ dry.” stated Heath who stopped him from having yet another shot.

“Heath! You let me be! I want another drink!”

“Not till ya tell us what is wrong! Is it Jenny? Cat?” Jarrod let out a growl and pushed Nick out of the way looking for another drink.

“Jarrod what is it?” Nick was worried now. Why was Jarrod acting this way?

Jarrod looked at both of his concerned brothers with his big expressive blue eyes. He looked to Nick who was always there when he needed to talk. He may be boisterous and a little loud but he had a heart of gold. He knew Nick just wanted to be a brother to him, the way he was a brother to him. Nick wanted to listen and try to help.

He then looked to Heath. Heath had been in the family for almost ten years and it was like he was always apart of it. He had a way of listening and not being judgmental. Maybe if he talked to his brothers, his problem with Jenny won’t seem so bad. Yep they are going to force it out of me soon anyway. So better to give into them.

“Heath. Nick. I am not sure where to begin. I think my marriage is falling apart.”

“Why do you say that?” Heath watched Jarrod as he idly pulled out a cigar and lit it.

“I don’t know Jenny. She is always after me to move back home. Always mad at me because I don’t spend enough time with her.” Heath understood this. Janine was going through the same thing.

“Jarrod” Heath quietly put his arm around his eldest brother’s shoulder. “Nick would you get us a drink please. We may need it!” Nick watched his elder and younger brothers as they sat there. The middle brother went up to the counter and ordered drinks as the two brothers spoke quietly. “I know how you feel.” Jarrod looked to his youngest brother, trusting him to make him feel better. “Janine is confined to bed. She is makin’ my life a living hell with those moods she goes through. I don’t know from one hour to the next if I’m goin’ to be going home by myself. One minute she has unbelievable passion for us then the next she is mad as the blazes.” Jarrod nodded knowingly. “But you know what pulls me through it?”

“What?” Jarrod gaped at his brother anew.

“I know that I love her and if I lose her then I am nothing. She loves me, just doesn’t like to be confined. So we talk about our feelings and that helps a lot. You know me. I don’t like to talk. I tend to keep things bottled up. Janine brings the talkative side out.” He took a drink that Nick brought to them and looked to his older brother. “Have you talked to Jenny?”

“No, I guess I haven’t. I haven’t wanted to be around her with these moods. They are scary!”

Heath gave him his grin and nodded. “Boy howdy, Jarrod! I’ll trade ya wives for a day. I can bet that Janey is worse than Jenny any day!” Nick laughed, musing, I hope my Chelsea isn’t gonna be like that. “Hey Jarrod wait until Chelsea gets with child. Then Nick won’t be grinnin’ like that!” Jarrod watched as the smile leave Nick’s lips and was replaced by a frown.

“To the wonderful women in our lives” toasted Nick raising his shot glass and downing his drink.

A few hours later, the brothers made their way home to their respective families. They staggered their way into the house, singing and grinning. Leah ran up to her father, wanting to be picked up. Heath did pick his daughter up and she went to plant a kiss on his cheek when she pulled back, “Papa! You stink!” The uncles laughed loudly and Leah decided to get down. Heath obligingly set her down on the floor and she stood with her hands on her hips, looking very much like her mother. “Papa! You dwank that yuckky stuff in bottow. Didn’t you?” Heath stopped smiling and looked surprised at his daughter. “Papa, I’m gonna tell Mama!” She started up the stairs while Nick and Jarrod looked to Heath to see what he was going to do.

“Lil One! Don’t go buggin’ Mama. Let her rest. Come ya can help me clean up, k?”

“K. Papa. But if Mama sees you, You gonna get a spankin’!”

The brothers burst out laughing as Heath stammered, “I don’t think so Lil One. But lets just keep this between us k?” Leah nodded her head and took her father’s hand, helping him to the bathroom so he could clean up before looking in on Janine.

Jarrod grinned as he followed his brother and his daughter up the stairs. Jarrod turned the door handle to the room he shared with Jenny. She was lying on the bed, feeding Cat and looking very beautiful. He slowly made his way to the bed, swaying back and forth. Jenny looked up at him with tear filled eyes. “Jarrod! Have you been drinking?” she asked in her sing song voice that filled his heart with joy.

He nodded and put his masculine hand on her cheek, caressing it lovingly. “I’m sorry I have been neglecting you milady.” Jenny got up and put Cat back in her crib.

She sat beside her handsome husband on the bed and took his face in her petite hands. “Oh Jarrod!” she cried. “I should be the one that is sorry! I have been so moody lately.” Jarrod took her hands down from her face and kissed each fingertip.

“I love you Jennifer Lea Barkley. Can you forgive me for being a pompous ass?” Jenny giggled as Jarrod drew her closer. Their lips found each other as they begged forgiveness. Their kissing grew more passionate as their hands roamed their bodies. Jenny eagerly undid his tie but slowly and enticingly undid his shirt buttons. She enjoyed his plundering into her mouth. He slowly kissed her mouth, making his way down her neck and undoing her night clothes so he could caress her golden soft skin. She managed to get his clothes off and with their passions heating up, they enjoyed each other, managing to reach unbelievable heights and soared above the heavens. When it was over, they apologized to each other once again and held each other. “I love you Jarrod” she said huskily into his ear.

“I love you too Jenny. I promise always to talk to you and keep our marriage alive. I promise as soon as I am done this case here, we will go back to San Francisco.” He twirled her black silky hair between his fingers. He placed his large hands on her face and kissed her passionately. She moaned and once again their passions overtook them before Cat woke up and demanded their attention.

Nick sauntered into his room seeking out his wife. She was standing by the window looking outside. “Hey Chel!” greeted Nick in his boisterous way and kissed her neck. “I missed you.” She leaned into him. “Whatcha lookin’ at?”

“Nothin’ really. Just waiting for you to come home.” She sounded wistful. “I missed you too Nicky.” He smiled and drew her closer, loving the scent of roses that arose from her body. He inhaled deeply and kissed her hair. His hands absently roamed her body making her groan involuntarily. She turned around in his powerful arms and wrapped her arms around his neck, drawing his head down to meet her lips. They kissed passionately while Nick picked her up and laid her gently on the bed. Their passions got the best of them and soon were calling out passionately. Soon after they decided to get up and get ready for supper.

Heath was having problems of his own. Janine was angry for some reason and wouldn’t tell Heath why. She was holding David, getting angry with him while Freddy was crying. Heath sighed and took David away from her while Leah crawled on the bed with her mother. “S’okay Mama. I wove you.” this made Janine cry.

Heath struggled with the boys and sat beside Janine. “What’s the matter Janey?” He really wanted to hold her and stroke her hair but he couldn’t manage it. “Leah can you go get Grandma Vic and maybe Aunty Chelsea please?”

“Yes Papa.” She ran out of the room looking for her relatives, worried about her mother. She came back a while longer with Victoria and Chelsea.

“Please take the kids for us Mother. I need some time alone with Janey.” Victoria took a look at Janey and nodded. Janine was having a tough time of it.

After the ladies left with the boys and Leah, Heath shut the door and sat back on the bed. “What is the matter Janey? Why are you so upset?” Janine fell into his arms and cried.

“I don’t know Heath! I hate feeling like this! Its not fair to you or the children!” Heath held her tightly and hoped that Jarrod was fairing better with his wife then he was. He just had to ride this out. She sat up suddenly and gazed at Heath. She gulped and said quietly “I’m sorry Heath. I am worse then the babies these days.”

“Shhhh…” he whispered. “It’s okay. I can imagine how I’d feel if I couldn’t do anythin’.” He rubbed her back soothingly as if she was one of the children. “Now Janey. Please don’t get yourself all upset anymore. Its not good for you or for the baby. If you feel like you can’t handle the babies call me or if I’m not around, call Mother or someone. I don’t wanna see a scene like I saw tonight.” Janine nodded, regretting that she had almost hurt David. She still didn’t understand the way she felt, but she was going to try to fight that feeling. Her marriage depended on it.

She wanted to try and explain how she felt to Heath. She felt that she owed it to him. She sighed and said “Heath I can’t begin to tell ya how I feel. Its really hard to explain. I am feeling overwhelmed, tired, and very nervous. I’m nervous about having the baby.” Heath nodded in agreement. “I know I’ve been especially mean to ya and I promise to make it up to ya. I love ya Heath. I’m so glad that we married. We’ve three wonderful children and I love how ya take of them. I love how ya take care of me.” She moved closer to Heath, placing her arms around his waist and her head on his chest. She heard his heart beating giving her a restful peaceful feeling.

Heath held her like that for a while then said, “My pretty, I’d do anything for ya, ya know that. I’m nervous about the baby too. I’m scared about us raising so many children, but with our love we can do it. Janey, I promised ya I would find a nanny and boy howdy I will! But right now, we need to stay here and have ya not working at all. All right?” Janine gazed into her husband’s eyes which shone with love. She raised her head and found his lips.

“All right Heath. I won’t try to fight it anymore. I’m too tired. Is supper ready yet? I’m gettin’ a mite starved.” She grinned wickedly. “We can finish this conversation later right?” Heath smiled and kissed her deeply, loving the feel of her lips against his. She responded by caressing his back, feeling the old scars through his blue shirt. She kissed him back and they were lost in the sea of passion that they loved so much. Heath’s wandering hands made their way down her body and caressed her thigh. She moaned at his touch. “Don’t Heath. We need to join the family for supper.” He continued his touching while she said quietly as he laid her down on the bed, “Heath…..this isn’t gettin’ supper you know.” He chuckled and found her ticklish spot. “He…. Oh forget it!” she returned the caresses, finding that he was responding in the desired manner. Before they knew what was happening they had shed their clothes and found a new way to share their passion. They lay together for a while, then decided they had better dress and see if they missed dinner.

The couples descended the stairs at near the same time finding Audra and Fred with Victoria in the parlour listening to Leah recite verses that she had learned from Janine:

The sun is set, the schools are done,
The boys and giwls are all come home;
And now they want their supper quick,
Come, Betty, get the pudding-stick--
And see! the cows have left the dale,
Come, Peggy, wun and catch your pail,
And milk as fast as e'er you can,
And stwain it in the lawgest pan:
Now get some bowls and dip it out,
And dwop the pudding all about.

Come now, dear childwen, come and eat,
Your pudding's hot, your milk is sweet.
Then quietwy wetire up stairs,
With gwateful hearts, and ferment pwayers;
Undwess, and go to bed and sleep,
Till morning light begins to peep.

When she was done reciting, every applauded and asked for more. Leah blushed and recited another favorite of hers:

The sun is up, the air is cwear,

The trees are bwooming all awound,
The dew-drops gwitter on the gwass,

And pwetty posies deck the ground.

Come, sister, let us take a walk

Among the field till bweakfast time,
Take wittle Emma by the hand,

You, Cawowine, take hold of mine.

Now let us pick some pwetty fowers,

And give them to these wittle ones;
Hark! childwen, don't [you] hear the birds?

How loud they twill their morning songs!

How easy look the snowy sheep,

Beneath the shade of yonder tree!
How pweased they are to see their lambs

Skip o'er the pwain so mewwily!

But see! the cows are going back;

Our bweakfast will be weady soon--
Come childwen, let us now weturn,
And we will walk again at noon.

When she was done, Silas, who was waiting at the doorway of the dining room announced that supper was ready. Janine picked up David and Heath took Leah’s hand, walking with her to the dining room and sat her down. Supper was a happy affair, and was eaten in grand style.

Chelsea was excited and wanted to show everyone the new sewing machine that Nick had ordered for her. It was called a Singer Sewing machine, made by a man called Issac Singer. The new machine was built into a wooden frame with a wooden treadle that moved a needle up and down. The needle had an eye at the point that would push through the cloth, creating a loop of thread on the far side; then a shuttle would slip thread through the loop, creating a tight lock stitch from the bottom. It was truly a work of art. The women gushed over the machine and when Chelsea took a piece of material and pulled it through the machine, they absolutely were astounded as to the minute stitches it made. “This is a truly amazing. Just think of how much work it will save the dressmakers!” exclaimed Audra clasping her hands in glee.

As they were admiring the sewing machine, they heard a loud crash coming from the parlour where the babies were sleeping. They went running into the room to see what all the noise was about. All the adults gasped when they saw the sight before them. There was Leah, standing in the middle of turned over cradles. Janine made the first move, “LEAH” she said very sternly as she walked over to her. Leah stood stalk still and glared at her mother. The others picked up the babies who seemed to be ok and held them till they stopped crying.

“What Mama?” she asked innocently.

“I think you have some explainin’ to do young lady.” Heath put a reassuring hand on Janine’s arm to calm her down even though he felt angry too.

“Leah, apologize to Uncle Jarrod and Aunt Jenny.” She stood still and made no move to say anything. “Okay Leah Victoria Barkley, you get upstairs and we’ll be up there to talk to you.” she stomped up the stairs and slammed the door to her room. Janine and Heath made sure all the babies were all right and went upstairs to talk to their usually obedient daughter.

Heath opened the door to find that Leah had ripped the heads off her dolls and cut all the hair off of them. Heath kept his temper in check as he strode purposely towards his beloved daughter. Janine stayed behind to let Heath handle the situation. She was too flabbergasted to say anything as she surveyed the mess around her.

“Leah?” Leah shook as her father approached her and sat beside her on the bed. She moved away from him, obviously nervous about what was to happen to her. “Why did you knock the cribs over downstairs?” He was calm even though he was thinking about what could have happened to those babies.

“Cuz” she replied, rather hesitantly, not looking her father in the eyes.

“Cuz is not the answer I was expectin’ lil one. I need more of an answer. We need to know why ya did this. Ya know ya coulda hurt those babies bad?” Leah’s blue eyes filled with tears.

“I no know that Papa. I just…..”

“What Leah?” Heath reached over to smooth back her unruly hair. She flinched, thinking he was going to hit her. “It’s okay Leah. I’m not going to hurt ya.”

“Oh Papa. You still wike me? Even though I hurt babies?”

“Of course I do Leah. What makes ya think I didn’t?”

“You always talk mama. You always talk babies. You never give wides me anymore. I hate you Papa!” Heath was taken aback by the viciousness in his precious daughter’s voice.

Calmly he told her, “I’d never stop lovin’ ya Leah. Ya disappointed Mama and me. The babies will be okay. But ya know we have to punish ya for what you did.” Leah opened her eyes wide, the dark lashes wet from her tears.

“Papa. No punish. Please! I no do it again!”

“Leah, you put the babies in danger, then ya didn’t apologize like we asked. Ya stomped up here, slammed the door, then broke your dolls. Was that nice?”

She hung her head and replied very quietly, “no papa, I reckin not”

Heath cupped his large hand under her small chin and lifted her head so she would look at him. “Tomorrow, I want you to help me with a few chores and you have to clean this mess up. Okay?”

Leah nodded her blonde head and wrapped her little arms around her father’s neck, “Wove you Papa. I is sowwy, ‘give me?”

“I fergive ya lil one. But don’t ever do that again, k?” Leah nodded once again. Janine entered the room after giving them time to talk.

“Leah?”

“Yeah Mama?” Leah looked at her mother with saucer like eyes filling up with tears.

“You understand that what you did was wrong, right?”

“Yes mama.”

“Will you ever do this again?”

“No mama. I is sowwy. I say sowwy to Unca Jarrod?”

“Yes I think that would be a good idea.”

“I wove you mama. ‘Give me?”

Janine’s heart melted at her daughter’s words but she kept her voice stern. “Yes Leah, I forgive ya. But you realize I can’t trust you with the babies now?”

“No mama. I no know.”

“That means Lil One. That you aren’t allowed by yourself with the babies. You’ll have to be with one of us if you want to hold your brothers and cousin.” Leah looked up at her mother forlornly.

“K mama. I sowwy I ‘most hurt babies. I mad you.” She drooped her head so low that her parents could hardly hear her. Janine hugged her little girl and caressed her head.

“Promise me if you’re mad at me and Papa, you come talk to us before you hurt your brothers again, k?”

“K mama”

“I love you Leah.” She smiled at her daughter. “Let’s go apologize to Uncle Jarrod and Aunt Jenny k?” She took Leah’s hand and looked about the room. “We will have to do something about this room, as well, don’t you think?” Leah nodded and placed her other petite hand in her father’s large one. They walked slowly down the stairs and went to find her uncle.

“Unca Jawwod” Leah looked up at her wonderful uncle. Jarrod picked up his niece and place her on his knee.

“Yes precious” He brushed the hair out of her eyes. He hugged her close and waited for her to continue.

“I wove you. I sowwy about baby Cat. I no mean to hurt her.” Jarrod turned her around so he could look her in the eyes.

“Leah. I am very disappointed in you. I was very hurt that you wanted to hurt Cat. Why?” The tears ran down her red cheeks while Heath and Janine watched her struggle with what she had to say.

“Oh Unca Jawwod. I is rewwy sowwy. I no wanna hurt baby cuzin. I wove her.” Violent sobs racked her body. Jarrod held her while she sobbed. A little while later, she looked to her uncle. “Unca Jawwod? Hate me?”

“Why Leah. Where ever did you learn that word, hate?”

“Dunno. Heard it somewhere. I think Kewwy said it.” There was an audible gasp from everyone in the room. Janine went to her daughter but Heath stopped her, wanting to hear what Leah was going to say.

“Do you remember Kelly?” Jarrod asked gently.

“Yeah. Kewwy mean. I no like her. She tole me she hate me and Mama.” Heath grasped Janine’s hand and held his breath. “She tole me that we need to die. Unca Jawwod what die mean?” Janine bit her lip to stop the tears from rolling down her cheeks.

“Oh Leah. Kelly was a very sick girl. She didn’t know what she was saying. She shouldn’t have said those things to you. I’m sorry you had to hear them.”

“I no mean hurt Cat or Davey. I want fweddy gone. I no like fweddy.”

“But why Leah?” Jarrod was afraid of the answer.

“Fweddy ‘long to Kewwy. I no like Kewwy and I no like Fweddy.” Heath squeezed Janine’s hand making her look at him. He stood there with tears in his eyes.

Jarrod pulled Leah closer to him while he carefully thought of his next words. He looked to his brother and Heath nodded gently to tell him to go on. The others listened in rapt silence to what the practiced lawyer was going to say to his precious niece.

“Do you remember when Davey came to live with you?” Leah nodded her head. “You remember how sad you were that he had no parents?” Again a nod. “Leah, Freddy has no parents. He is just a little baby that needs our love. Kelly has died, meaning that she is now in a happy place that is not on our earth. She can’t hurt anyone anymore. Freddy’s papa, Steve, is with Kelly. They left Freddy with your mama and papa because they knew they would love him as much as they love you. Do you understand?”

“Sorta Unca Jawwod. Fweddy has to stay?” Jarrod nodded. “But Unca Jawwod, he ‘longs to Kewwy. Why no he go to happy place?”

“Oh Leah. He is just a little baby. Don’t you think he deserves a chance to live with you, Davey, your mama and papa?” Leah looked at him quizzically. “Don’t you want to be a big sister to Davey, Freddy and the new baby?”

“Yeah but no Fweddy.” Jarrod hugged her tight.

“Give him a chance. He is just a little baby. He will grow up to be your friend. Trust me, k?” He smiled at the little girl. “I love you Leah. We all do. Please don’t hurt anyone again, all right?”

Leah sighed and looked up at her uncle with big sad eyes. “I un’ersand Unca Jawwod. He don’t know about Kewwy. Maybe he nice?”

“Only if you are nice to him first.” She hugged her uncle and placed a kiss on his cheek.

“I is sowwy Unca Jawwod.” She looked to Jenny and put her arms out to be picked up. Jenny picked her up as Leah hugged her. “I is sowwy Auntie Jenny. I no hurt babies no more.”

“Okay Leah. Cat is fine now. I love you too, sweetheart.” Leah’s eyes filled with tears as she was put down on the floor. She ran over to her father who picked her up.

“Night ever’one. I is sowwy. I no hurt babies again.” Everyone nodded and said their goodnights to the little girl. Janine also bade goodnight, as she was tired. They picked up the boys and went upstairs to put their children to bed.

After the children were tucked in bed, Heath sat with Janine in their room, discussing the events of the day. Uppermost in their thoughts was Leah and her attitude towards Freddy. “Did we make a mistake, Heath? Accepting the responsibility of Freddy, no questions asked?”

“I don’t think we made a mistake. We need to change our thinking. If Leah feels that way about Freddy, can you imagine what she thinks about us taking Freddy? I don’t want her thinking that we don’t like her. I just don’t know what to do!”

“Oh Heath. I never knew Leah was feeling this way. I never meant to make her feel neglected. Poor Leah! We need to give her some individual attention.”

“Yes Janey, I think that might be a good idea. We have been so involved with ourselves and the boys, Leah has seemed to be left out in the cold, except for helping around the house. Not fair to her.”

“I know. Maybe we can take her somewhere special. Well, maybe you can since I have to stay in this lousy bed. Maybe we can do something together in here.” With that thought on their minds, Heath tucked Janine into bed. She put her arms around him and kissed his cheek. “It will work out, Heath. We have a good girl, she is only three and we threw a lot of responsibility on her. Maybe its time we let her be a child.” Heath nodded and laid his head on her chest, listening to her heartbeat. Janine stroked his hair, loving the feel of it and wishing he would just stay there forever. They stayed like that when they felt the baby move for the first time. “Did you feel that Heath?”

“Oh my pretty, there is a baby in there!” He laughed raising his head to watch her belly. He put his hand on her belly and sure enough there was another kick. They both chuckled. He pulled himself up, with his arm holding up his head, he used his other hand and stroked her soft cheek. She turned her face towards him and wanted to say something, but Heath had other ideas. He leaned towards her, kissing her sweet lips. He loved kissing her and she never failed to awaken all his senses when their lips met. They kissed passionately until they were breathless. Janine took a finger and traced a trail from his right eye to his lips, then caressed his lips. She looked into the depths of his eyes and saw the emotion that lay there. She smiled faintly and whispered words of love to him. He smiled back before claiming her lips again. Their kisses grew passionate once again as they found solace in one another. Later as they lay in each other’s arms, they told each other that life was good and things would work out for them. They fell asleep with thoughts of love invading their dreams.

The next morning, they gathered around the breakfast table enjoying their breakfast when Leah asked Heath, “Do I haf to hep you, Papa?”

“Yes Lil One. If you’re good and help me with no complaining, I’ll take ya for a ride today.” Her eyes lit up with happiness.

“Rewwy Papa? A wide on Chawger?” Heath smiled down at his daughter and nodded. “Oh Papa! I wove you!”

“Eat your breakfast Lil One. We have lots of chores to do before we have any fun.” Her face fell at that statement but she ate her breakfast heartily and didn’t say another word.

After breakfast, Janine walked her husband and daughter to the door. “Have a good day ya two. I certainly will miss ya.” She gave Leah a hug and kiss. She kissed Heath passionately and forgot about all else till Leah impatiently stomped her foot.

“Papa kit kissing Mama! Let go!” They pulled apart guiltily and let out a nervous laugh.

“Ya get some rest ya hear?” Heath told her as she nodded and yawned. “Let Mother and the others tend to the boys.” She looked at him with anger. “I mean it Janine Marie Barkley! You are NOT to lift a finger, ya hear me?”

“Yeah Heath, I hear ya. I’m goin’ to bed now. Have a good day.” She watched as Leah put her hand in her father’s large one and went out to enjoy their day. Janine felt jealous that she had to go to bed while father and daughter got to enjoy a day together.

Heath and Leah walked over to the barn where Heath needed to do some cleaning up in the tack room. Leah chattered away about this and that making Heath smile at her giddiness. He had her move smaller things and sweep the floor before they were done there. Then they went to the barn to make sure the horses had their oats and water. They were cleaning out the stables together when Victoria entered carrying sandwiches and a pitcher of lemonade. “Time for a break you two.” She said with a smile on her face as she watched them work.

“Papa? Can we eat? I hungy” Leah looked pleadingly at her father.

Heath nodded his head. “Yes I reckon we did enough. After we have a bite to eat, I think we can go for a ride.” Leah’s face lit up. Heath smiled at her lovingly as he watched her eat the cucumber sandwich.

“Have ya seen Janey this morning?” Heath asked Victoria, concerned that she wasn’t resting enough.

“Don’t worry Heath, she has been in bed all morning. I checked on her just before I came out and she was sleeping. Chelsea and Jenny are looking after the boys. They’re sleeping too.” Heath nodded as he ate a sandwich. “I know you worry about her Heath. She is a tough lady, and has been through a lot. The baby will be fine, you wait and see.”

“I know Mother. She always accuses me of being a mother hen. Boy howdy, am I that bad?”

Victoria chuckled quietly into her hand. “Yes Heath, I believe you are.” She agreed with him. He smiled at Leah who was eating her sandwich contentedly. “You two are going for a ride?”

“Yeah just over to the line cabin and back I think. Not very far. She worked hard all morning, so I’m going to treat her with a ride.” Leah smiled as she drank her lemonade.

“Wide soon, Papa?”

“Soon, Lil One. I need to saddle Charger first.” He rose to get Charger out of the barn. “Ya stay here and eat. I will get ya when its time to go, k?”

“K Papa.” She munched down another sandwich, as Victoria watched her. Heath was soon ready just as Leah finished eating. “Weddy Papa.” Heath lifted Leah up into the saddle and he mounted up behind her. “See you later, Gama. Wook after Mama till we come back, k?” Victoria smiled and waved at them as they rode out.

Heath took it slow with Leah, pointing out different things for her to look at as they rode. They saw an eagle sitting in a dead tree. They saw a deer and a fawn foraging on some grass near the watering hole. Heath let Charger trot and that caused Leah to say, “Faster Papa” He smiled and hung on to her tightly as he urged Charger just a little faster. Her laughter filled the air as they flew across the range. Heath slowed Charger down and came up to the cabin by the river. He stopped and dismounted, helping Leah down so she could run around while the horse rested for the ride home.

Leah stayed by her father as he wandered down by the river to fill up his canteen. “Why we stop Papa?” She asked as she knelt beside him watching as he filled up the container.

“Charger needs to rest. He gets tired just as you and I tire when we walk to far.”

“Oh. Good idee.” He smiled. “Let’s talk, Lil One.”

“K Papa. What ‘bout?”

“Ya hurt my feelings last night when ya told me ya hated me. That made me sad.”

“I sowwy.”

“Why did ya say that?”

“I no know, Papa.” Taking her hand they walked up to the cabin and sat side by side on the stairs. “I dint know that it hurt your feewings.”

“It did Leah. Ya should never say that to anyone.”

“K papa. But Kewwy….”

“Kelly was a sick girl. She didn’t know how to love. She had no mama or papa to show her right from wrong.”

“Poor Kewwy. I ‘stand now. She want ‘tention like me, so she hurt feewings.”

“Good girl, Leah. That’s right. She needed someone to show her the right way to be nice. You’re a nice girl Leah, you’re helpful, respectful to your aunts, uncles and grandmother. So it really hurt when ya overturned the cribs and almost hurting the babies. What would you’ve done if those babies were hurt?”

“I no know”

“Ya mustn’t never do that again.”

“K, Papa. I ‘stand now.” Heath put Leah onto his lap and hugged her tightly.

“You’re a good girl. Ya remember that.” He placed a kiss on her blonde mass of curls and helped her up. “Let’s go now. Charger should be rested up enough.” He lifted her up on the horse then got up behind her. He made sure she was comfortable and hanging on to the saddle horn before they rode away.

“Go fast Papa.” He smiled and let Charger fly threw the open fields. She laughed merrily at the wonderful ride her father took her on. Heath held her tighter as they approached the house. Heath reined Charger in and tied him up to the hitching post then got Leah down.

“Ya go change for supper Leah and say hello to Mama. I have to take Charger to the barn.”

“K Papa. That fun. Can we do that agin?”

“Yes Lil One, I reckon we can. Now go on. Tell Mama I’ll be in as soon as I take care of Charger.”

“K Papa.” She went racing into the house leaving her father chuckle at her exuberance.

Janine was dozing in bed with both babies beside her. She had spent the day lying around and playing with the boys, enjoying the mirth of David and the quietness of Freddy. She heard Leah singing as she climbed the stairs. The singing got louder as she drew closer to the bedroom door. Leah peeked around the door and smiled when she saw that Janine was awake. “Mama!” she cried and went gently to the bed.

“Hi Sweetheart! How was your day?” Janine sat up, patting the bed beside her. Leah gingerly sat down and hugged the tired looking woman.

“Good Mama.” She went to tell her of all the things they did. Janine listened with rapt interest as she described her day. “Papa said he be in when Chawger takin’ care of.”

“Thanks Leah. My but ya had a day. Bet you’re hungry right?” Leah nodded. “Why don’t ya go change your clothes then come back and get me. We’ll go downstairs together k?”

“K mama. Miss you Mama. Maybe you go widing soon?”

“After baby is born I’ll be able to. Then we’ll have fun, won’t we?”

“Yeah Mama, I can’t wait.” She headed off to her room, singing a song her father had taught her

"O there's nothing like gin
When you feel all done in.
And when I'm thirsty for a beer,
Better serve it to me, Dear."

I’d better talk to my dear husband about the songs he teaches his daughter, she laughed quietly to herself. She was still chuckling when Heath walked into the room. He stopped to watch her as she smiled to the babies. “Nice to see ya so happy, my pretty.” He told her as he bent down to give her a kiss. “How was your day?”

“My day was the same as ever. Sleep, chat, read, sleep, eat. Boring! It sounds like ya had a good day.” He smiled as he nodded. He got up to wash the dirt off of his body. Janine watched as he poured the warm water into the flowered ceramic basin sitting on the dressing table. He took the wash cloth and scrubbed his arms, hands and face. Janine smiled as she watched this procedure. He looked into the mirror as he was drying, and saw Janine’s expression.

Chuckling, he made his way back to the bed and sat down. He took Freddy from her arms, laying him gently in the bassinet beside the bed. He looked over at Davey who was trying hard to get off the bed. He chuckled and picked him up setting him on the floor with some toys to keep him amused for a few minutes. He sat down on the bed, taking Janine into his strong arms. She sighed as he caressed her back lovingly. She pushed her cheek into his shirtless chest loving the feel of the soft chest hair. His heartbeat was a comfort to her. She pulled herself away as Leah came singing down the hallway. Heath rose off the bed to put his shirt back on.

"O there's nothing like gin
When you feel all done in.
And when I'm thirsty for a beer,
Better serve it to me, Dear."

Janine gave Heath a look he couldn’t decipher, but figured it couldn’t be good. Leah came into the room, quieting down when she saw the babies. Heath quietly asked Leah to keep Davey entertained. She sat down on the floor and continued to sing her song.

“Heath?” started Janine

“Yeah?” he replied a little hesitantly not sure what he had done wrong.

“Did ya teach Leah that song?” He was watching Leah with Davey when this question was posed to him. He slowly turned to look at her.

“Yeah. Why?”

“Do ya really think its an appropriate song to teach a three year old girl?” She smiled as she asked.

“I dunno. I’m guessin’ no?” Janine slapped him on the arm. “Ow! Why did ya do that?” He pretended his arm hurt.

“Next time think ‘bout the songs ya teach the children, k?” He looked at her trying to keep a straight face and saw that she was losing the battle.

He grinned back, “What ever ya say, my pretty. Whatever ya say.” He leaned in to kiss her, and placed his hand on her belly feeling the baby kicking. “Leah wanna feel the baby in Mama’s tummy?”

“Oh yes Papa! Can I weally?” They nodded and she placed her hand on Janine’s stomach. She felt something, wasn’t sure what, but looked at her mother in confusion.

“that’s the baby honey.” answered Janine to her daughter’s unasked question.

Suddenly Leah smiled, “Hi ya baby. Its me Leah. I is your big sista. When you come out, we’re gonna have a wong talk about what its wike to be in a famiwy.” The proud parents chuckled at their daughter when a knock on the door sounded.

“Ten minutes ‘fore supper Mr. and Mrs. Heath!” called the black manservant.

“Be right down, Silas” replied Heath, helping Janine up out of bed. She quickly brushed her reddish blonde hair and grasped Leah’s hand while Heath picked up both boys. Janine stood beside her handsome cowboy, leaning over to give him a kiss on the cheek “Love ya Janey” he mouthed then winked at her. She blushed, heading off down the stairs. It was good to have her family with her.

One day during the week, Heath went to town to pick up supplies for the ranch and to do the daily check of their home. He was in town at the feed store when Jason Werner, an average sized, stocky man with bright red hair, stood beside him as Heath signed the account bill.

“Howdy Heath. Bin a spell since we jawed.” Heath gave this man a glance and nodded. He never liked this man as he and his wife liked to stir up trouble for whomever they met. “How’s that pretty wife of yours? I hear tell ya got yourself a mighty big brood.” Heath didn’t say anything. He picked up his supplies and put them out on the boardwalk beside the buckboard. The annoying man followed him out.

“My wife is fine, thank ya. I’ve a lot of work to do.” He placed a barrel of oats into the wagon with a little effort. Jason would not leave Heath alone but didn’t offer any help to load the buckboard.

“Is it true what I heerd bout ya? Takin’ that Barstow kid in?” Heath turned to glare at the man. He was furious that this man was bothering him about his life. “I heard tell that baby was of yore seed.” He silently seethed as he tried to ignore the man. He had heard this before. He saw the looks the townspeople were giving him each time he came into town, but he chose to ignore it. He heard the whispers that stopped as he walked by. No, he will ignore this too. He didn’t need to be put in jail for causing a disturbance. Jason pestered Heath more about the rumors floating around town, about the trial, about his “affair” with the elusive Kelly Humphries. “That child is a bastard. Like you. Like father, like son, huh?” Jason Werner never saw the fist that hit him with such a force that knocked him to the ground.

The belligerent man tried to get up off the dirt. Heath stopped him with a look. “Don’t you ever say that to me again!” he hissed at him. He picked his hat off the ground and hopped onto the buckboard. He flicked the reins and headed off towards the ranch with Jason Werner watching him.

As Heath drove the buckboard, a lot of thoughts passed through his mind. He normally didn’t mind the trip to town as it gave him time to reflect on his day. His thoughts often led him to Janine and his growing family. Today however it was the incident with Jason Werner. He never liked the man and liked him even less now. After all the years of the prejudices of other people, it still bothered him when people referred to his heritage. He was a good man, though most people knew that, there was those who figured it was all well and good to keep bringing up the issue up over and over again. People like Jason Werner who liked to cause trouble. Heath was smart enough to know that it would probably never stop and he wouldn’t hide his heritage or the children’s from them. He would teach them, however, on how to deal with the prejudices, no matter how hard it was.

He drove onto the ranch land, heavy hearted, but it lifted as soon as he saw the house. He thought of his family and how much they meant to him. His stepmother, his brothers, his sister. Accepting him as he was but without reservations at the beginning, then eventually allowing him into his heart and his life. His acceptance of them led them to Janine and his deepening admiration and love for her. He thought of their children and what happiness they brought to him. He smiled as he drove up to the barn and unloaded the supplies, a little bounce in his step.

He was whistling when he opened the door, happy to be home. He opened the door and to his surprise, the whole family was waiting for him. “Happy Birthday Heath!” They all greeted him. He smiled widely, thinking, home, what a nice word. Janine hugged him tightly, kissing his cheek while Leah begged to be lifted up. “Happy Birthday Papa!” she told him and kissed his rough cheek.

“Well thank ya Lil One. Thank ya everyone! What a nice surprise!” Heath put his arm around his wife, still holding his daughter and grinned. Janine put her arm around her husband and together walked over to the drink table and poured him a drink. Everyone lifted up their glasses and toasted him, “Happy Birthday Heath! Many more happy ones to come!”

Victoria got up from her seat and went to him, kissing him on the cheek. “Thank you Tom…..I mean Heath for coming into our lives.” No one heard her slip up except for Heath who looked at her quizzically. He didn’t say anything about it, just thanked her for her wishes.

“I reckon I’d better clean up now, I’m plum full of feed and dust.” He headed off upstairs as everyone watched. When he was out of view, they piled the presents in front of his chair at the dining room table. When they were done, there was an impressive amount. Audra and Fred were coming for supper as well, so it would be a nice birthday for her husband.

Heath came down in time for supper and saw all the gifts that were meant for him. “Boy howdy! I didn’t expect this!” he told everyone. He wasn’t a person who lived for material things. He enjoyed what he had and never asked for anything more. They outdid themselves this year judging by the pile at his seat.

He opened the gifts and soon piles of clothes appeared in front of him. Janine had made him a new brown leather vest, a pair of pants and a light green work shirt. Victoria had gotten him a new pair of boots, even though he insisted his were still good.

Jarrod had gotten him a new holster, adorned with his initials in delicate beadwork. Jenny had presented him with an oriental style belt buckle. He looked up at his sister in law and thanked her profusely for the beautiful buckle. It had a dragon with tiny emerald eyes engraved into it.

Nick and Chelsea had given him a beautiful leather wallet with a cowboy riding on a black horse embossed on it. It had a gold like trim outlining the top and sides of it.

He opened the gift from Audra and Fred. He wasn’t surprised to see another shirt but he went to lift it out of the package and an envelope fell to the table. He picked up the envelope and gingerly opened it. Inside there was a piece of paper that said:

This is to certify to Heath Barkley is entitled to four purebred horses of his choosing and use to his own discretion.

Signed,

Fred Benedict

Heath looked up at his sister and brother in law. He opened his mouth to say something, anything, but nothing came out. “This is too much Fred. I can’t accept this.” He managed to spit out.

“Nonsense Heath. You have helped me out many times without asking for anything in return. This is my way of repaying you.” Heath looked incredulously at his brother in law.

“Thank ya” he said quietly.

Fred grinned and shook his hand. “You’re welcome Heath.”

Heath picked up the gifts, thanked everyone. Then Leah said, “Papa, you forgot one!”

“I did? I thought I had them all” She handed him a small one. “Is this from you?” She nodded. He slowly opened the wrapping and looked inside. “Boy howdy this is beautiful! Did ya make this all by yourself?” Leah nodded as Heath held up two handkerchiefs. She had managed to stitch “papa” in the corner.

“Mama show me how to ‘titch letters, but I pick colours. You wike?”

“I like Lil One. In fact I reckon I’ll wear one now!” He tied a blue kerchief around his neck with the name “papa” proudly displayed on the right side of his neck. “Thank ya Leah. I love it!” He gave Leah a hug and set her down at her seat.

Silas brought out supper in serving trays and set them on the table. Janine made sure it was Heath’s favorite meal, roast duck with stuffing and roasted potatoes. There was gravy and steamed carrots and peas. It was a delicious and he thanked everyone for making the day special. After dinner there was birthday cake, a chocolate marble double layer cake with butter icing.

After dinner they adjourned to the pool room where they had their usual after drinks and games of pool while the women brought out their various projects. There was much camaraderie among the family that they almost hated to part for bed. Leah yawned and Janine knew it was time for them to go to bed.

After the children were tucked in, Janine decided it was time for sleep for her. She changed into her night dress with Heath’s help. He put his arms around her and kissed the back of her neck. “mmmmm….Heath.” she moaned. He turned her around and slowly kissed her neck, chin and finally her lips.

He picked her up, groaning, “you put on some weight I see Janey” he commented when he stopped kissing her. She gently slapped his back then kissed him deeply. He held her and looked in her eyes. They made their way to the bed and he lay her gently on top of the blankets. They enjoyed each other then Heath pulled back caressing her face. “I don’t want to hurt you Janine. We have to remember what the doctor said.”

Disappointed, Janine nodded. “He didn’t say that we had to stop everything. I’m enjoying the kissing and hugging. Aren’t ya?”

“I reckon I am Janey.” He kissed her again, slowly, wanting the kiss to last forever. She closed her eyes and lost herself in that kiss. After a while they parted and Heath told her, “Well, my pretty, better get some sleep. I know you’re tired. Are ya sure you’re not doing too much? Ya did plan my birthday, didn’t ya? Baked a cake?” She nodded reluctantly. “That was mighty nice of ya, but ya know…..”

“I know, but I wanted to do somethin’ nice for ya. I love ya and I hope ya had a nice birthday.” She kissed him as he tucked her under the blankets. “By the way, how was Stockton, same as always?” He smiled slightly as he thought of the incident with Jason Werner.

“Yep. Same as always.” She gave him an unbelieving look and drew him closer. She stared into his eyes, and kissed his lips.

“G’night Love. Tell Nick that I’ll beat him in a game soon. I sure wanna play!” He chuckled and bade her goodnight. He closed the door behind him, smiling. It was a happy birthday indeed, he thought as he descended the stairs.

Continued…